DIGITAL PLATESETTERS -- The Write One

(For more on the great thermal vs. violet debate, see the accompanying sidebar to this story.)

The processless plate arena saw the entry of an interesting new competitor at PRINT 01. Computer-to-conventional plate (CTcP) manufacturer basysPrint announced that Kodak Polychrome Graphics' DirectPrint no-process conventional plates can now be imaged by the company's UV-Setter product line. The negative-working, aluminum plates are said to support a tonal range of 1-98 percent, handle runs up to 100,000 impressions and work with common pressroom chemicals. Once exposed, the plate reportedly is made ready to print by the action of the press unit within five to 10 sheets.