SCREENING SYSTEMS -- Spotting an Opportunity

Nearly a decade later, the makings for a groundswell of support seem to have been quietly building in the industry. Computer-to-plate production, advances in digital proofing, greater processing power in prepress, and electronically controlled presses now are seen as enabling advances in screening.

The advanced screening product category has seen greater activity, with most of the major manufacturers introducing new solutions. Creo Inc. rolled out a 10-micron version of its Staccato FM screening. Hybrid systems have come on the scene—including Agfa's Sublima and Spekta from Screen (USA)—that seek to apply AM (amplitude-modulated) and FM screening where appropriate. Fujifilm has created its own product class with its Co-Rés—or common resolution—screening, which arranges halftone dots in a way the company claims distinguishes it from traditional AM and FM screening.