Plate Imaging with Computer-To-Plate

Expert Guide No. 1 Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate

Contents

1 Printing: 3.6 Color Management 7 6 Heidelberg CtP Solutions 14 6.2 Heidelberg Platesetters 18 More popular than ever 2 3.7 Digital Proofing 7 6.1 Heidelberg 6.2.1 Complete Solution Packages 3.8 Digital Impositioning 8 Workflow Solutions 14 for every Market Segment 18 2 Computer-to-Plate offers Key 3.9 Archiving 9 6.1.1 Prinect Printready 6.2.2 CtP with Competitive Advantages 3 3.10 Output Workflow 9 System 14 Polyester Printing Plates 18 2.1 Competitive Advantage 1: 6.1.2 Prinect Signa Station – 6.2.3 CtP with Top Quality 3 4 Computer-to-Plate Impositioning and More 15 Metal Printing Plates 19 2.2 Competitive Advantage 2: Technology 10 6.1.3 Prinect Profile Toolbox 15 6.2.4 The Prosetter Family 19 Shorter Production Times 3 4.1 UV Imaging of conventional 6.1.4 Prinect MetaDimension 16 6.2.5 The Suprasetter Family 20 2.3 Competitive Advantage 3: Offset Printing Plates 10 6.1.5 Digital Proofing 16 Competitive Production 4 4.2 Imaging with visible Light 10 6.1.6 Prinect Calibration 7 Overview of 2.4 The Competitive Advantages 4.3 Thermal Imaging 11 Toolbox 17 Prepress Workflow 24 at a Glance 4 6.1.7 Prinect MetaShooter 17 5 Computer-to-Plate 6.1.8 Heidelberg Screening 8 How can I find the 3 Digital Workflow: Printing Plates 12 Technologies 17 right CtP Solution? 25 Essential for the Use of CtP 5 5.1 CtP Printing Plates for 6.1.9 Prepress Interface: 3.1 PostScript and PDF 5 Violet Laser Diodes (405 nm) 12 The CIP4 Interface 18 9 Time is Money: 3.2 Job Ticket & Job 5.2 Thermal Printing Plates for So why wait any longer? 27 Definition Format 6 Infra-Red Laser Diodes (830 nm) 12 3.3 Preflight 6 5.3 Printing Plate Development 13 10 Checklist 28 3.4 Redigitization 7 3.5 Trapping 7 2 Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate Printing: More popular than ever 1 Printing: More popular than ever

Who could forget the vision of the tial so that similar production stages, “paperless office” that captivated the which in the past had to be worked trade press and unsettled many printers through sequentially, can now be auto- in the 1980s? A similar effect is currently mated by workflow systems. This saves being created by alternative “electronic time and minimizes sources of error. media” but this does not mean that the The digitization of data, and the inte- print media industry should regard the gration of processes into a single work- future with uncertainty. Printing is flow, makes this an ideal solution for more popular than ever. the future. Job structures have changed consid- Of course, the quality of the printed erably in recent years. Obvious trends result must also be assured. With are towards more color and shorter job increased competition, top quality is a run lengths. As a result of this, and requirement for all printshops and because of the increased pressures of cannot be the exclusive reserve of indus- shorter deadlines and maximized cost- try giants. In this brochure, Heidelberg® saving, modern presses are being details its solutions for all types of print- equipped with an increasing number of shop and offers guidance for selecting a printing units. Printing a job in a single suitable Computer-to-Plate (CtP) system. pass makes the best use of the short As an integrated workflow is so impor- amount of time available and is the most tant for achieving the best results with cost-effective production method. This CtP, this topic is also discussed at length. means: there is a much greater demand for printing plates within the same period of time. The new demands on the print process are accompanied by tremendous demands on the prepress stage. A high level of automation is becoming essen- Computer-to-Plate offers Key Competitive Advantages Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate 3 2 Computer-to-Plate offers Key Competitive Advantages

Computer-to-Plate offers businesses in 2.1 Competitive advantage 1: reduced – not least because of the abil- is not fully manned. The unique Plate-on- the print media industry many advan- Top quality ity to precisely calibrate each individual demand feature developed by Heidelberg tages. Converting to CtP does away with The first generation screen dot on any printing unit – even with ultrafine means that plates can now be released a number of operations including, for CtP printing plate is composed of screens. Higher color densities are pos- for imaging, directly from the CP2000 example, the need to image pages or imaged pixels and is razor-sharp. This sible, with more brilliance. Center® of a Speedmaster® press. page sections onto film, manual imposi- degree of quality cannot be achieved Summary: Because significantly A clear marketing advantage can tioning, analog plate copying and with Computer-to-Film (CtF) processes improved accuracy is made possible also be gained through the faster com- offline punching for on-press registra- where, in extreme cases, dots may be with digital printing plates, a higher, pletion of the printed job. Faster deliv- tion. This opens up a range of direct copied several times. Even if the utmost more consistent and more predictable ery times can often set a printshop advantages and cost reductions, which care is applied, this can lead to unavoid- standard of quality can be achieved. apart from its competitors and provide the user can turn into tangible results able losses in detail. With CtP, no specks a key to winning further orders. When and use to give his company’s market of dust or cut edges can impair the result. 2.2 Competitive advantage 2: print products such as reports, newslet- profile a significant boost. Bad copies are ruled out and excellent Shorter production times ters or newspapers depend on speed-to- on-press register accuracy is guaranteed. With an end-to-end digital workflow, market, shorter production times allow Thermal CtP plates offer extremely production times can be reduced in pre- editorial deadlines to be pushed back as precise imaging. Silver halide plates press. Following on from the digital far as possible. with their high resolution and photo- plate imaging stage, a number of signifi- polymer plates with their extremely cant time and cost advantages can then 2.3 Competitive advantage 3: steep gradation curve satisfy even the be gained in the production process. Competitive production strictest quality requirements. The Because each printing plate is of a To calculate the savings that can be imaging quality of CtP means that fre- very high quality, manual plate correc- made with CtP, both the workflow and quency-modulated (FM) screens, that tion that was previously routine is now the prepress equipment need to be previously delivered good results only no longer required. Digital presetting taken into account. When a manual under extremely stringent conditions, data reduces press setup time and sheet assembly process is replaced with can now be used with ease. ensures that the job gets to color faster. a powerful workflow system, including The greater range of tonal values, If a printing plate should be damaged digital impositioning, considerable with enhanced detail in the light and during clamping, an identical replace- savings can be made in terms of labor shadow areas, ensures that this preci- ment can be created quickly and because and materials costs. Outputting print- sion imaging offers an immediate the job data can remain stored in the ready flats on a large format filmsetter improvement in print quality. The dot CtP recorder’s processing queue, this is can also offer savings, but end-to-end gain on the press is significantly also possible if the prepress department process automation will ultimately only 4 Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate Computer-to-Plate offers Key Competitive Advantages

be possible with the integration of digi- Whereas in the past printing presses tal plate imaging. In other words, the could not operate if there was a wait for 2.4 The competitive advantages at a glance most competitive production is achieved last-minute manual corrections to the when the prepress, press and postpress printing plates or for new printing Advantage 1: • Ultra-sharp dot with digital plate imaging stages are combined into a fully inte- plates to be copied, this is no longer nec- Top quality • Accurate on-press registration grated production line. essary today. • No negative effects from dust, cut edges or bad copies By taking the CtP and workflow The final key factor for cost savings • FM Screening route, the costs of film and film lies in the boost to overall productivity • Increased range of tonal values, with enhanced details developing disappear and savings are achieved by greater process automa- generated by no longer having to tion. Whenever it is possible to increase rework poorly-copied plates. The higher the utilization level of a state-of-the-art quality of the plates imaged with CtP offset press, even by a small percentage, and the opportunity of digital press there will be a clear and positive effect Advantage 2: • Reduced preparation times thanks to presetting means that far less print on profit margins. Shorter 100% digital workflow waste is generated. As a result, the con- production times • No manual plate correction required sumption of ink, dampening solution • Faster press setup with digital presettings and paper is noticeably reduced. • Faster to color on-press • Trouble-free re-imaging of replacement plates • Faster delivery times for the final products

Advantage 3: • Maximum cost savings in labor time and materials Competitive • Costs for film and film developing disappear production • Lower levels of waste reduces the consumption of ink, dampening solution and paper • Minimization of press down times caused by manual Potential savings: correction or plate remakes • End-to-end process automation in prepress, press Example CtP CtF and postpress Press utilization 83 % 80 % • Increased utilization of presses and postpress Make ready time 25 min 30 min • CtP as a key selling point Cost per plate set 207 € 215 € Print jobs per year 2.300 2.100 10 percent additional press capacity with CtP = more profit Digital Workflow: Essential for the Use of CtP Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate 5 3 Digital Workflow: Essential for the Use of CtP

A digital workflow is vital to ensure 3.1 PostScript and PDF A new international industry the-art workflow systems aimed at that the best results are achieved with Until recently, most prepress service standard, established and approved for automating the output process. Computer-to-Plate. This workflow system providers and printshops received files the exchange of advertisements and It is important to note that anyone needs to be configured to best meet the that had been generated from applica- print pages, provided the much sought- can generate PDF files. Data created in needs of each individual customer. To tion programs. This involved a number after solution – namely, the Portable any layout or graphics program can be ensure success, a good working relation- of risks, however, as further processing Document Format (PDF) from Adobe® output as PostScript files and converted ship and excellent communication with was often complicated by incomplete Systems. From Version 1.3 onwards, into a PDF file using the Adobe® Acrobat® data suppliers are essential. high-resolution data for images, diffe- PDF documents contain all the key Distiller®. Some application programs rences in the fonts used or incompat- information required for prepress pro- also allow data to be exported directly as ibilities between program versions. duction. The format has since devel- PDF files. PostScript® data, with its device-specific oped to become the universal standard commands, was often responsible for for exchanging print production pages. errors on a job. In addition, PostScript This standardization offers greater files are large, leading to long transfer security for everyone involved. PDF is times for digital data. therefore the ideal basis for state-of-

Graphics

Image 6 Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate Digital Workflow: Essential for the Use of CtP

parameters such as screen ruling, • PDF version Checking and certifying the PDF files for screen angle or resolution. • Data format (binary or ASCII) compliance with the PDF/X ISO standard The desire to integrate the indivi- • Reliability (printing/editing) is highly recommended. This ensures dual job processing steps – from job • Font embedding (all/subgroups/none) that it is possible to produce the PDF files. acceptance through production and • Font types invoicing – led to the foundation of the (Type1, Type3, Truetype etc.) 3.4 Redigitization independent CIP4 organization. All the • Color models (CMYK, RGB, LAB) The full advantages of an integrated pro- key manufacturers in the print industry • Special colors cess chain can only be harnessed with supported the CIP4 initiative and came • Image resolution (color, grayscale, complete digitization as digital plate together to work towards a common, images etc.) imaging requires 100% digital data, but agreed standard, the Job Definition For- • Image rotation/scaling what happens with archived films? JDF supports the cross-platform definition of all production steps. mat (JDF). In addition to the information in a PJTF, a JDF can also contain information Scanning and redigitization enable a and setting values for the entire manu- fully digital workflow. 3.2 Job Tickets & Job Definition Format facturing process: Unlike a PostScript file, a PDF cannot • Default values for the press such as contain device control commands. For ink zone values or paper grades this reason, Adobe developed a new • Folding and cutting information method for PDF, which allowed control • Supply data such as addresses or information to be stored in such a way number of copies that it had nothing to do with the page • Planning data (e. g. deadlines) content. The Portable Job Ticket For- • Administration data (e. g. customer mat (PJTF) was born. or order number) Separating page content and pro- • Material data (e. g. description, size, cessing instructions leads to greater weight, color) flexibility in production. In the event of any subsequent changes, the individual 3.3 Preflight data elements no longer have to be To verify supplied files, “preflight” pro- opened in the original application for grams can be used to check the trans- adaptation. Instead, only the informa- ferred PDF files against an agreed check- tion in the job ticket is changed. list. This enables data to be “repaired”, A portable job ticket could define infor- according to rules set down in advance mation such as imposition layout, trap- by the user. The following criteria are ping rules and, in particular, output important when PDF files are preflighted: Digital Workflow: Essential for the Use of CtP Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate 7

y What if an original is supplied as a fin- trappings can be easily generated for “International Color Consortium”, a XYZ 0.8 EuroOffset ished separation on film, perhaps in a each print process using the same mas- group of numerous leading hardware Monitor Slide 0.7 different resolution? ter data. and software manufacturers, which It is possible to run a twin-track sys- includes Heidelberg, who are striving 0.6 tem for a certain period of time – i.e. 3.6 Color Management towards the development of a non-pro- 0.5 outputting one order as a full sheet on The production processes in the pre- prietary standard for exchanging color 0.4 film while outputting another directly press and press stages must be closely information. ICC profiles are responsible on the CtP recorder. coordinated with each other. The open for mutual color using conversions that 0.3

A number of anda number of workflow systems provided by Heidelberg take place automatically in the back- 0.2 printshops are using this approach to and the opportunity to use ICC profiles ground in the Color Matching Modul 0.1 support their customers needs. To fully meet the challenge of ensuring high (CMM). 0.0 x achieve this, the scanners in many levels of color fidelity. ICC stands for 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 printshops are equipped with an add-on 3.7 Digital proofing Units can display all colors that are within their color function for redigitizing existing or Proofing is one of the most important space. supplied films. From a technical per- stages in a digital workflow. Because CtP spective, redigitization is possible in Heidelberg Prinect Trap Editor offers object-oriented does not use films, from which analog and interactive trapping. excellent quality. However, because of proofs could be created, digital proofs exactly mirrors the print result, taking the additional workflow stages, this is are used instead. In order to find a pro- into account the properties of the paper not really a long-term solution. Ideally, cess that satisfies both the customer and used in the production run. jobs should therefore be received as PDF the printshop, countless samples and Nobody need be without the fami- files. much discussion have been needed. This liar “blueprint”, not even in the digital can still be a complex process, and even workflow. Provided a large-format 3.5 Trapping the introduction of the Cromalin system, plotter is available for the sheet proof, Trapping is the process in which color which has been accepted as standard for complete print sheets with all printing, elements are slightly enlarged and posi- decades, has had its problems. folding and cutting marks can be out- tioned over each other with the aim of The development of inexpensive units put as a final check – possibly even preventing white spots from occurring for printing out continuous-tone (con- including perfecting – before the digital in the event of a press registration dif- tone) proofs and devices for generating printing plates are imaged. ference. true halftone (raster) proofs has already The following variations of the digi- Trapping should be delayed until the come a long way. tal proof are available within the digital end of the prepress process, preferably Provided that the color management workflow: until just before the imaging stage. This principle is applied correctly, an excel- • On-screen soft proof (use as a single- way, the printer knows for definite lent match with the print result is page proof or for the entire print which print process and which trapping ensured. The proofer’s output perfor- sheet; also as a “remote proof ” at the rules are required. As a result, the right mance is adapted so that the proof customer’s) 8 Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate Digital Workflow: Essential for the Use of CtP

dual PDF pages to be grouped in any short-term storage/backup during the order to form a single file. All the associ- production process and long-term archiv- ated resources (e.g. fonts, illustrations) ing. In the first case, the data is mostly are delivered with each page. stored on large hard disks. Long-term During PDF impositioning, entire archiving involves media such as CD- pages are assembled into PDF sheets ROMs, DVDs or magnetic tapes. without going via an intermediate for- When a decision is being made for a mat. These sheets can then be checked specific archiving system and the calcu- on the screen and sent for outputting. lations for the storage space and trans- mission speeds required are being made, 3.9 Archiving a decision also needs to be made regard- The most commonly used archiving ing whether the data involved in the medium in the printing industry until individual print jobs is to be returned to now has been imaged film. But when the customer after production or data is processed digitally, this film has to whether it is to be archived as an addi- be replaced with other tools and media. tional service provided by the services A distinction needs to be made between department or the printshop.

Impositioning is one of the first steps in the production of printed goods.

The digital proof is the key to quality assurance in the CtP workflow.

• Color proof as a truecolor page proof A number of printshops are cur- up to A3+ format on inkjet or thermal rently offering their key customers digi- sublimation printers tal proofing equipment, so as to achieve • Halftone proof for checking the color fast and seamless coordination. “feel”, including screen structures and effects using systems with color 3.8 Digital impositioning films and thermal transfer The PDF data format is ideal for impos- • Impositioning or sheet proof as a sim- ing everything from single pages to ple plotter printout or as a truecolor entire print sheets. Object-oriented data contact proof on large-format inkjet storage enables PDF documents to be printers. separated into single pages and indivi- Digital Workflow: Essential for the Use of CtP Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate 9

3.10 Output workflow the finished print product. The goal The implementation of an integrated is to regard printing as an industrial complete process chain naturally process instead of seeing each stage as does not end with the digital imaging a manual operation that is a goal in of the printing plates. Process integra- itself. tion results in new, improved organiza- tional structures in the customer’s workflow and within the company’s workflows, and continues with order planning, the output workflow in the prepress stage and data archiving. Then comes the data transfer for the press presettings and finishing. Last but not least, it can be extended to complete order management with costing, invoicing and distribution logistics for

Color conversion Trapping Data processing Page proofing

Impositioning Sheet proof Data processing Imaging 4 10 Computer-to-Plate TechnologyComputer-to-Plate Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate Imaging with Plate established as a standard process in all a standard as process established firmly become has CtP past. of the thing developed. being also still ing equipment were develop- right and the chemicals their plates, printing CtP – the new were that techniques equipment and imaging the It wasn’t just of uncertainties. a number with adopters early had to struggle the that However, forgotten it should not be competitors. their from themselves to differentiate them ing and enabled market position- better for scope with printshops systemment in a CtP provided ’90s, early invest- in the Even interest. of tremendous focus the were they 1980s of the end the and, by 1990, drupa at unveiled were solutions CtP first The Imaging in the violet range Laser imaging with visible light visible Laser imaging with range violet Imaging in the These teething problems are now a problems teething These Computer-to-Plate TechnologyComputer-to-Plate nology. tech- imaging by the determined better Today, devices. is categorization the or flatbed externalinternal drum drum, into design, on their depending rized latest generation. and output systems of the workflow to the haveusers switched long since first the And countries. industrialized The first CtP recorders were catego- were recorders CtP first The Thermal imaging (infra-red) marily for small-format, flatbed CtP flatbed small-format, for marily 633 – 670the pri- nm range and are used in which operate light diodes red the to hold. In addition took diodes laser Gradually, cheaper use of significantly the spectrum. of the ranges and green blue light in the emitted lasers These available time. were at the plates that the imaging for used had to be lasers of CtP, years early In the expensive visible light Imaging with 4.2 plates inexpensively. printing to image offset conventional however, ability advantage in the the lies user, input. For the able technological consider- requires process image. The an overall are built upimages to form partial the travels back and forth, head imaging the As frame. a copying with as plate, onto are projected a fixed images pass, partial imaging plate. each With onto printing the directed then and is example, projectors, for in video used chip, as and micro-mirror a lens via a UV lamp light from which travels the Such systems use plates (CtcP). printing ket to image digitally conventional systems mar- are only on the a few There UV imaging of conventional offset 4.1 printing plates printing laser diodes also use a rotating mirror or mirror also use a rotating diodes laser light diodes. violet are low, use of inexpensive to the thanks recorders CtP for costs manufacturing Plate easy, relatively handling is and the and tested in filmsetters. tried been speed. high rotates at very that or polygon a mirror shone over using a single beam place generally takes imaging Digital process. imaging the a vacuum during via in an internal drum plate secured is plates. printing and photopolymer silver halide plates highly-sensitive both 30 mW. image can 30 mW diodes These an output of at least are now delivering – 410 400 in the operate nm range and diodes These have introduced. diodes light violet inexpensive very recorders, Functional principle of an internal drum recorder. internal of an Functional principle A few CtP recorders with violet light violet with recorders CtP A few has technology reliable, proven This the recorders, CtP For most of these

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...... to quality. lower leads This a limited plate format. within compensated optically onlycan be plate center to the which the edge, from distance long imaging the is struction of con- type disadvantage of this The construction. use a flatbed they drum, but instead of an internalpolygon, drum recorder. external of an Functional principle

...... wavelength of 1064wavelength nm must used. be a with lasers high-power intricate face, plate to mirror the sur- the from path longer light of the Because polygon. or mirror shone onto a fast-spinning a single beam uses process imaging the plates, systems which use light-sensitive Similar to CtP principle. internal drum formation. dot razor-sharp facilitates This reached. is threshold heat a specific ated once plates, an image only is gener- graphic” to In contrast “litho- principles. binary plates make almost exclusive use of printing thermal that fact in the lies ogy technol- main advantage of thermal The 830in the nm range spectrum. of the emit that diodes large of laser number a technique with a multi-beam uses generally process imaging The drum. plate onto external clamped is a rotating the where recorders, external drum process. development subsequent in the off washed are then components soluble or dissolved The aluminum in the plate coating. linking cross- polymer of existing dissolution or the cross-linking a primary be can this plate on the type, plates. Depending thermal of digital change surface on the a physical to effect are used of energy large amounts imaging, thermal During Thermal imaging 4.3 Some thermal CtP recorders use the recorders CtP thermal Some are usually recorders CtP Thermal more than 60 percent. 60 percent. more than market and have won a market share of well on the themselves have established design, an external drum with those principle. recorder drum”nal “imaging or a flatbed system imaging in an inter- a diode with include an internal drum recorders CtP thermal for principles design Further CtP thermal recorders, especially recorders, thermal CtP heat threshold. below No dot formation Heat threshold the heat threshold. the by reaching Dot formation Computer-to-Plate TechnologyComputer-to-Plate principle. imaging – heat threshold thermal with Dot formation describes these in detail. these describes Solutions” CtP “Heidelberg entitled section The technologies. imaging both complete with range recorders of CtP a excellent quality. offers Heidelberg and high plate productivity with coupled systems’ on the low price, based marily pri- is trend This diodes. laser violet with towards systems CtP trend increasing Since drupa 2000, there has been an been has there 2000, drupa Since Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate Computer-to-Plate Imaging with Plate the heat threshold. the dot above of the No change 11 12 Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate Computer-to-Plate Printing Plates 5 Computer-to-Plate Printing Plates

5.1 CtP printing plates for violet laser 5.2 Thermal printing plates for This takes place when the laser beam diodes (405 nm) infra-red laser diodes (830 nm) energy exceeds a certain threshold. This Violet recorders use light-sensitive For thermal plates too, a distinction is primary cross-linking must then be plates based either on silver halides or made between negative and positive reinforced via additional preheating of photopolymers. Both plate types have processes, the appropriate switchover the entire plate before the non-cross-

been around for many years, and their protective being effected simply by the digital linked polymers are dissolved in an use has been proven in practice with layer printing plate’s definition and by the alkaline development process and the emulsion imaging systems that work in the visible Aluminum RIP. hydrophilic aluminum is exposed. light range between 488 nm and 670 nm. barrier layer For negative processes, polymers In the case of thermal printing plates The latest development is further sensi- are cross-linked during the imaging of using the positive process, the polymer cell nuclei tization to violet light with a wavelength the image areas that will be printed. cross-linking of the non-printing areas of 400 to 410 nm. The extreme sensitivity and high resolution of silver halide Agfa Lithostar Ultra-V. Structure of coating of the silver plates are retained, as are the durability halide plate for imaging with a violet laser diode with output of 5 mW. Suprasetter uses thermal laser imaging heads and job-run stability of photopolymer developed in-house by Heidelberg. plates. achievable resolution for photopolymer Silver plates enable large job runs of plates is somewhat lower than for silver up to 350,000 prints. Further post-bak- halide plates. ing to increase the size of the job run is Silver halide plates belong to the not possible. UV inks greatly reduce the class of positive plates, i. e. the imaging run length and are not recommended takes place on the non-printing area of with the silver based plates. the plate. Photopolymer plates, on the Violet-sensitive photopolymer other hand, involve a negative process – plates, however, can remedy this. Imag- i. e. only the printing areas are imaged. ing these plate types requires just one laser diode with a higher output power of 30 mW. The job run size for photopolymer plates is a maximum of 200,000 prints. To increase the job run size and to use UV inks, a post-baking process can be used. The maximum Computer-to-Plate Printing Plates Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate 13 is destroyed by the laser’s high energy. only a few exceptions, most of these advantageous for printing exclusively in The polymers which have already been plates intended for use with CtP small to medium formats, or where space dissolved are then removed in the alka- recorders are still at the development restrictions mean that large equipment line development process. The advan- stage. Processless CtP plates for imaging cannot be installed. tage of this is that no further preheat- in DI presses are already available, how- Alkaline positive and negative devel- ing is required. ever, and are being used successfully. opment is used for thermal plates and A further advantage of the now well- Digital imaging of printing plates photopolymer plates for imaging with established thermal plates available for waterless offset printing is still only violet laser diodes. Silver halide plates, from all major manufacturers is that possible using thermal technology. on the other hand, require a special devel- “Raptor” online processor from Glunz & Jensen. they can be post-baked after develop- opment process which includes development using a further heat treatment 5.3 Printing plate development ment, a subsequent diffusion process, process, and are thus also perfect for The development of all of the printing washing off and finishing. The final very large job runs with more than a plates mentioned above also requires a stage involves the plates being gummed million impressions. This post-bake processor specifically configured for for a few days to prevent oxidation. option also makes them ideal for use the plate and the use of special chemi- Processors for positive thermal plates with UV inks. cals. It is advisable to provide a plate often also facilitate the development of For many years, “processless” ther- delivery table or automated stacker at conventional positive plates that use the mal printing plates have been on display the end of the processing chain. same chemicals. In any case, however, at trade shows. Covering layers are Developers for digital printing the plate supplier’s technical services either dissolved or parts of the coating plates are also available specifically for department or expert advisors should be are burned off in the printing areas of smaller plate formats. This is definitely consulted for a full explanation. these plates. The dissolved areas of the Development processors for digital covering layers are then either washed printing plates, add-on equipment such off or removed via the dampening as stackers and tables for plate delivery rollers in the press. Burned-off particles and post-baking ovens, along with the are suctioned off in the recorder. Cur- relevant developing chemicals, are sup- rently, only a few processless plates are plied from printing plate manufactur- available for practical use. However, ers and suppliers, and are available via these plates usually require more their specialist dealers. There are also a energy than “normal” thermal plates number of independent suppliers who and the imaging process therefore lasts also supply equipment for plate devel- longer. In the future, it may be possible Aluminum opment. Emulsion to switch the processes from non-print- Protective layer ing to printing by means of phase- Layer structure of a thermal printing plate for changing “switchable” polymers. With infra-red laser diodes (830 nm). 14 Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate Heidelberg CtP Solutions 6 Heidelberg CtP Solutions

Heidelberg has developed integrated the backbone of any end-to-end print ductivity, levels of automation and uni- workflow is completed in the compact solution concepts for introducing Com- media workflow. versal access to production data. PDF data format. The system is open and puter-to-Plate in all sizes of company A number of highly important accepts standard data formats such as and for all tasks. Heidelberg solutions 6.1 Heidelberg workflow solutions options and add-ons for CtP output are PostScript, PDF, EPS or JDF. One particu- offer far more than just the digital Operating complex workflows quickly, discussed below and a brief description lar advantage lies in the fact that work- imaging of printing plates. The solu- reliably and smoothly is essential for provided of each. flow stages are combined into group tions aim to integrate the entire work- ensuring the best possible flow for a CtP sequences which are then executed auto- flow – including the transfer of data, its production process. All the workflow 6.1.1 Prinect Printready System matically in JDF processors. processing and preparation into print components and systems outlined Prinect Printready System™ is a complete sheets, the output of digitally-imaged below are able to meet this challenge PDF workflow system for the high-perfor- printing plates and the transfer of data head-on. They are scaleable, thus repre- mance sector. It is fully JDF-based. Print- for presetting presses and finishing senting solution concepts for even the ready® automates every single step of the equipment. This means that they form most diverse demands in terms of pro- prepress stage and every stage of the

Prinect Printready System, the automatic JDF-based prepress workflow, revolutionizes prepress work. Modules can be added to the basic packages at any time. Heidelberg CtP Solutions Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate 15

1. Qualify analyzes all records using business ma- 6.1.3 Prinect Profile Toolbox Prinect Profile Toolbox supports a Data optimization (preflight check), nagement criteria. Prinect Profile Toolbox consists of variety of coordinated test forms and normalization to PDF, color manage- Data can be accessed in every work PrintOpen®, the proven professional measuring devices, including Mini ment, trapping, thumbnail generation. phase and from any location. This software for creating ICC profiles, and Spots which can be evaluated using ensures better communication and thus Quality Monitor, a program for check- Prinect Image Control. Measurement 2. Impositioning more balanced utilization of the pre- ing and monitoring color quality in the values can be averaged over several JDF files generated by Heidelberg press, press and postpress stages. print and proof. This ensures a high measurements and, where necessary, Prinect® Signa Station® assign the PDF degree of reliability and flexibility. can be automatically corrected and pages manually or automatically to an 6.1.2 Prinect Signa Station – Improved profile calculation enables smoothed. impositioning layout. This can either be Impositioning and more the proof to be color matched with the done just-in-time or immediately before Prinect Signa Station is the Heidelberg subsequent print result with even output. solution for digital impositioning and is greater accuracy. essential for end-to-end, digital produc- Once created, a profile can also be 3. Proofing tion. It prepares the entire print sheet recalculated step-by-step with increas- Soft proof on the monitor, digital proof, digitally for print-ready output on CtP ing precision and an average deviation form proof. recorders or other output devices. The of the proof from the finished product main strengths of Prinect Signa Station which can barely be perceived by the Comparison of three-dimensional color spaces in 4. Output include full visual control, maximum human eye as a color difference. This proof and print. Output is either via a Prinect MetaDimen- flexibility and efficient automation, color accuracy can also be documented. sion® which also calculates the plate plus the option of being able to inter- ColorProof Pro enables a media wedge data or a special MetaDimension prepa- vene manually at any time. One of to be applied to the proof sheet. An ration workstation. Prinect Signa Station’s key functions is additional tool, Quality Monitor, is then MetaDimension converts the PDF its support for the Print Production For- used for exact comparison of the proof pages according to the JDF information mat (PPF) and the JDF/CIP4 format. and print/print standard. This analysis into a bitmap for the recorder. Prinect Signa Station is able to pro- and the proof provide the customer cess all the information required in the with evidence of quality. 5. Forwarding following stages of the processing Furthermore, a profile can be adapted The CIP4 data created in the workflow chain. This information includes the job to last minute changes to print parame- is sent in its entirety to the press and name, sheet number, ink coverage ters at any time. If for example another finishing stage. All processing records information, location of the positioned type of paper is selected or a new batch and data are archived. autoregister and color control marks, of ink is used, the existing profile does The Prinect Printready JDF database plus cutting, folding and collating infor- not have to be created from scratch. provides transparency for the progress mation, enabling it to be used on any This saves a lot of time and reduces the of the individual workflow stages and system for printing and finishing. technical outlay. 16 Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate Heidelberg CtP Solutions

After the PDF pages have been assigned The software package can be 6.1.4 Prinect MetaDimension MetaDimension can be used as a PS to an impositioning layout, a soft proof installed on any PC. Quality Monitor, Prinect MetaDimension provides the or PDF RIP. This way, the functions of can be output on the monitor, a print- specially developed for process control, ideal gateway solution to a perfect PDF PDF are incorporated in the existing pre- allows deviations between proof and scenario with all the benefits of job press workflows. Of course, Prinect out made of single pages on a color print to be objectively quantified rather ticket processing. The modularity of Signa Station can also be integrated into proofer, or a printout made of the than relying on intuition. It is also possi- this RIP workflow means that it suits the workflow in order to harness the entire print sheets on a form proofer – ble to measure whether or not the print any volume of jobs. It can be added to at benefits of the Print Production Format all automatically and depending on the lies within the tolerances of a defined any time with InRIP Trapping, InRIP (PPF) and Job Definition Format (JDF), process plan options. standard. Long-term observations can OPI, InRIP page positioning or InRIP and to transfer information such as the Provided MetaDimension is aid early recognition of deviations from Color Management. If the functions pro- ink zone presettings, to the press, or on equipped with the right options, the the standard. This enables corrective vided by all these InRIP modules still are to the finishing stage. proofing process is totally user- action to be taken in good time and the not enough, specialist software from The ability to export and import 1-bit friendly. In addition to the on-screen level of quality to be maintained in the Heidelberg or other software manufac- TIFF files also means that MetaDimen- soft proof, the job can be output at any long term. This in turn reduces the risk turers can be integrated as an Acrobat sion can be used in virtually any work- time on a connected color proofer or as of complaints. plug-in. flow. This approach combines the bene- a form proof, on e.g. HP DesignJet or fits of the TIFF-B workflow with the Epson inkjet printers. flexibility of the PDF-based workflow. 6.1.6 Prinect Calibration Toolbox 6.1.5 Digital proofing Prinect Calibration Toolbox is a special- Digital proofers from many manu- ist tool for performing and checking lin- facturers can be integrated in the earizations of CtP systems and adjust- Heidelberg Color Management system. ments to the printing characteristics. It Prinect Meta Dimension and Prinect is used for precise plate calibration for Printready System use ICC profiles to the required dot gain in print, thereby adapt to the relevant print process and enabling optimized color management. the true-color output. One of Prinect Calibration Toolbox’s Prinect Printready ensures that key strengths is its capability to simulta- proofing is productive, since Color neously provide several CtP systems with Management is carried out as early as printing characteristics with the help of a central calibration database. The fact the preparation process. In addition to that the latest characteristics are always simulating the print result for page and available on all the systems ensures that form proofers, it also converts to the the same print result is achieved even if output device’s color space. Special col- different presses are used. If the soft- ors can either be converted into pro- ware is installed on a central computer, cess colors or kept as special colors. Heidelberg CtP Solutions Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate 17

6.1.7 Prinect MetaShooter print samples, refer to the special tech- Prinect MetaShooter® receives digital nical volume entitled “An Introduction imaging information in TIFF-B data for- to Screening Technology”. mat, processes it and forwards it to the CtP recorder. This means that the CtP 6.1.9 Prepress Interface: recorder can be set up separately from The CIP4 interface the prepress department. This saves Frequent job changes and ever shorter time, since the plates can be output in print runs are increasing the demands the immediate vicinity of the press. on printshops in terms of shorter setup MetaShooter also facilitates the chrono- and run times, higher quality and logical separation of data interpreta- improved workflows. tion/screening and plate imaging. The Systematic integration such as that screened data is saved in TIFF-B format provided by the modular Prinect system and can be called up at any later point in developed by Heidelberg means that time. This enables individual plates or printshops are able to satisfy these an entire job to be reproduced simply demands. Prinect Prepress Interface Tonal value corrections for an optimum print result with and reliably. links the prepress, press and postpress the Prinect Calibration Toolbox. If necessary, Heidelberg CtP recorders stages. To use this software, a workflow can be connected to third-party workflow component is required that generates the CtP system’s performance is no longer Quality Monitor is integrated to mo- systems via MetaShooter. CIP4 data in the standardized Print Pro- hindered by the management and creation nitor and analyze the quality of printing duction Format (PPF) or JDF format. of new characteristics. plates and printing characteristics. If the 6.1.8 Heidelberg screening This is exactly what MetaDimension and Prinect Calibration Toolbox has been dot gain is altered by a change of ink or technologies Signa Station do. designed specifically so that fine adjust- paper, Quality Monitor recognizes this at Choosing the right screen system is cru- ments and corrections can be performed an early stage and it is then possible to cial for the quality of a print product. 6.2 Heidelberg platesetters on the basis of existing calibration data make the appropriate corrections in the Heidelberg has developed world- Heidelberg develops workflow solutions without having to print a specific test next plate set. renowned screen technologies that that cover every section of the prepress, form. form the basis for all Heidelberg work- press and postpress chain. In this sense, flow systems: all Heidelberg CtP solutions represent • HQS Screening® (High Quality end-to-end, fully-integrated solutions Screening). that ensure top-quality offset printing. • I. S. (Irrational Screening). • Satin Screening (frequency- modulated screening). For a more detailed description with 18 Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate Heidelberg CtP Solutions

6.2.1 Complete solution packages for 6.2.2 CtP with polyester printing plates It is also theoretically possible to every market segment Computer-to-Plate with polyester plates produce single-color prints and prints Different market segments have very is an inexpensive alternative that is with registration-tolerant spot colors different needs. Whatever these needs mainly of interest to small printshops and up to 70 x 100 cm formats when using are – fast, flexible and cost-effective quick printers, in particular for single 0.30 mm-thick polyester plates. A maxi- processing of polyester printing plates and two color work. Because of the mum job run of 20,000 prints is recom- in small offset, high system throughput lower dimensional stability of polyester mended for all format ranges. for medium-sized job runs in the 70 x plates compared to metal plates, four- 100 cm sector, or printing plates that color printing should be approached can be post-baked for rough printing with extra care, though excellent results materials, UV inks and long job runs – can certainly be achieved. Heidelberg has special solution packages for each: • Digitization and automation of the printing plate production process The Prosetter can be fitted with a Multi Cassette • Shorter setup times and a more Loader to deliver fully automatic processing. reliable, automated flow of data • Time savings through fewer workflow stages • Environmental protection through reduced material consumption • Cost benefits in the prepress and press stages Heidelberg CtP Solutions Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate 19

6.2.3 CtP with metal printing plates 6.2.4 The Prosetter family Because of the differing needs in the The Prosetter™ family is the answer of various market segments, Heidelberg Heidelberg to the trend towards inex- has developed two different CtP pensive CtP recorders and the use of vio- recorder families for digital imaging of let laser diodes. Low investment costs metal printing plates. and inexpensive running and mainte- • The Prosetter family for violet- nance costs make the crossover to CtP sensitive printing plates technology possible for everyone – • The Suprasetter family for thermal without any compromises in terms of printing plates. quality or performance. Prosetter’s The user therefore has every option he compact construction with its small needs to configure his workflow and footprint also helps minimize the costs the digital plate imaging process with of providing sufficient space. its associated printing plates and level The highly-flexible format range of of automation according to the relevant the Prosetter models covers the plate operational requirements. formats for all Heidelberg sheetfed offset presses and the majority of other After the cassette carriage has been docked onto an Once the cassette has been unlocked, it can be makes of sheetfed offset presses. SCL or MCL in horizontal position, the cassette is inserted easily into the loader. The plates are then simply unlocked – this makes the operator’s work fed automatically to the recorder. The Prosetter series uses proven far easier. internal drum technology developed specifically for imaging metal plates. A deflecting prism, which is very small daylight conditions with a yellow safety Single Cassette Loader can hold up to due to the violet laser beam’s short light. There is no need for a darkroom. 150 printing plates depending on the wavelength, is rotated at high speed by a The plate simply has to be placed in plate thickness. After imaging, the plate spinning motor and thus facilitates a position using Prosetter’s plate loading is transferred to the processor by an high output speed. guidance system. It is then automatically integrated conveyor. A 30 mW laser diode is used, which drawn in, centered, imaged, punched (if The Multi Cassette Loader can load generates light in the visible violet required) and ejected. Prosetter achieves up to four cassettes and up to 600 plates range of 405 nm. This enables highly- very high productivity. The fast versions with a range of formats and transports sensitive silver halide printing plates of Prosetter - the F74 and F102 - deliver an the plates, fully automatically, to the and photopolymer printing plates to be even greater rotational speed, and conse- recorder. Fully automatic plate produc- imaged with very high resolution in quently, even greater productivity. tion can even be performed during the outstanding quality. The Single Cassette Loader makes nightshift. Because of their high sensitivity, Prosetter fully automatic and also both types of plates are processed in allows for full daylight operation. The 20 Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate Heidelberg CtP Solutions

Prosetter plate formats

Prosetter 52 Prosetter 74/F74 Prosetter 102/F102 Min (mm) 370 × 323 370 × 323 370 × 323 Max (mm) 670 × 525 670 × 750 811 × 1,055

Min (inch) 14,567 × 12,717 14.567 × 12.717 14.567 × 12.717 Max (inch) 26,378 × 20,667 26.378 × 29.528 31.929 × 41.535

Suprasetter plate formats

Suprasetter 74 Suprasetter 105 Height (in circumferential direction, mm) 370 to 680 370 to 930 Width (in direction of axis, mm) 323 to 750 323 to 1,140

Height (in circumferential direction, Inch) 14.567 to 26.772 14.567 to 36.614 Width (in direction of axis, Inch) 12.717 to 29.528 12.717 to 44.882

Manual plate handling on a Suprasetter is equally convenient with 4- and 8-page formats.

Prosetter units can also accommo- the technical components to each other. configuration is that it can be posi- this ensures manual, semi-automatic date a punching system with up to four This means that Suprasetter has out- tioned against a wall. or fully automatic plate handling. punch modules for Heidelberg presses standing features in terms of compact The plate cylinder with its innova- and presses made by other manufactur- design, speed, reliability and simple • Transport unit with swiveling table tive clamping bar also ensures a min- ers. The integrated temperature com- operation. The key technical feature of imum clamping area and a maxi- pensation ensures added precision and Suprasetter is its dual-level swiveling mum imaging area. maximum register accuracy – especially • Compact design table. Thanks to this movable trans- for plate repeats. In spite of all the high-tech features port unit, Suprasetter is very flexi- • Top punching precision and versatility it offers, Suprasetter remains very ble. This process separates loading Suprasetter has been designed to 6.2.5 The Suprasetter family compact, making it a real space- and unloading procedures and create top-quality print-ready plates When developing Suprasetter, particu- saver compared to other devices in speeds up plate throughput. In con- with a minimum of time and effort. lar store was set by perfectly tuning all its class. One advantage of the manual junction with the external drum, In order to achieve this objective, a Heidelberg CtP Solutions Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate 21

precise internal punching system can be selected to meet specific is essential. The new punching needs. Thanks to its compact design, Why temperature compensation? method used in Suprasetter ensures upgrades can be carried out without Aluminum printing plates are sensitive to variations in the ambient temperature that punching is performed with lengthy periods of downtime and during the day and to changes in temperature during imaging. In the case of a maximum register accuracy for both with minimal service intervention. 0.30 mm thick printing plate with an edge length of a meter, the printing plate Heidelberg and other printing grows 0.13 mm per 5°C increase in temperature. presses on the market. Other punch A temperature compensation system can be used to prevent registration errors types can be retrofitted. as a result of temperature variations. To achieve this, the temperature is precisely measured in the recorder and the imaging area of the printing plate is automati- • The new lasers from Heidelberg cally adjusted in the case of a change of temperature. This ensures consistently The new laser system developed by precise imaging and absolute register accuracy even with trapped image elements. Heidelberg ensures a combination of This function is particularly important if, for example, a single plate from a four- excellent imaging quality and maxi- color set has to be repeated due to mechanical damage. mum productivity. Its modular con- cept means that productivity levels

The new laser modules are guaranteed to impress with their compact design, flexible upgrade options and Integrated punching systems ensure high speed. The intelligent diode system also offers unique register accuracy reliability. 22 Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate Heidelberg CtP Solutions

Flexible level of automation

Manual mode Semi-automatic mode with online Automatic mode with one cassette Automatic mode with multiple cassettes The plates are loaded and unloaded man- processor The printing plates are loaded automati- The printing plates can be loaded auto- ually using separate loading and unload- The plate that has been loaded manu- cally from a cassette that can hold up to matically from three or four cassettes, ing tables. While one plate is being ally is transferred to the drum auto- 150 same-format plates. The interleaf each of which can hold 150 same-format imaged, the next plate can be loaded – matically, and after imaging is trans- paper is removed as part of this process. plates. This means that a total of up to thus saving time. ferred to the connected online The punched and imaged plates are also 600 plates are available online, in up to The plates can also be punched automati- processor. The plates can also be fed automatically to the online proces- four different formats. The plates can cally (optional). punched automatically (optional). sor. If a job needs to be done quickly but also be punched automatically (optional). has a different plate format, manual mode is possible. The plates can also be punched automatically (optional).

Suprasetter Suprasetter Suprasetter Suprasetter

OLP SCL MCL

OLP OLP Heidelberg CtP Solutions Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate 23

Fully automatic operation and manual production of individual jobs are no problem for a Suprasetter with a Multi Cassette Loader. Manual loading can be carried out easily and conveniently at any time. 24 Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate Overview of Prepress Workflow 7 Overview of Prepress Workflow

Prinect Prinance Prinect MetaShooter Prinect Calibration Toolbox Prinect Prepress Interface Management information system Interface for integration of CtP Software for linearization of CtP Interface between prepress, press and technology in workflows systems and matching of print charac- postpress for presetting ink zones, Prinect Signa Station teristics cutters, folders and gang-stitchers Impositioning software Prosetter Violet CtP recorder based on internal Prinect Profile Toolbox Prinect CP2000 Center Prinect Printready System drum design Software for creating ICC profiles and Machine operation with remote ink Fully JDF-based prepress workflow quality control of proofs and prints control system for Speedmaster presses Suprasetter Prinect MetaDimension Thermal CtP recorder based on external Prinect Image Control RIP and workflow solution drum design High-end color measuring system

Suprasetter Proofer Prosetter

Speedmaster Speedmaster SM 74

Prinect MetaShooter

Prinect CP2000 Center Prinect Printready Prinect Prinect Prinect Prinect System Prepress Prinect Prinance Signa Station Meta- Interface Image Control Dimension Prinect Profile Toolbox/ Prinect Calibration Prinect Toolbox CP2000 Center & Prinect Axis Control

Ethernet How can I find the right CtP Solution? Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate 25 8 How can I find the right CtP Solution?

Finding an optimum, long-term • Job run length • Space requirements • Print behavior and quality solution for the highly-specialized The silver halide plates available for The construction of the Prosetter In terms of print behavior (clean needs of each user must take prece- violet technology cannot be post- family is designed to offer a running of the plate, ink/water dence over any technology discussions. baked. Manufacturers specify that particularly small footprint. The balance, ink feed, dot gain) and the The first task is to weigh up carefully the job run should be a maximum of Prosetter 52 can also be used with a achievable print quality, there is no where the focus for the system’s use will 350,000 impressions. The limit for special model for small-format real difference between violet and lie, and what decision criteria, if any, violet-sensitive photopolymer plates offset printing up to a plate format thermal technology. The plate would justify the crossover into a more and for thermal plates depends on of max. 670 x 525 mm. throughput and the price of digital expensive investment class. The Prosetter the manufacturer and plate, but is printing plates for both processes and Suprasetter families from Heidelberg typically between 150,000 and • Level of automation are also about the same. offer both violet and thermal imaging. 250,000 impressions. This can The Prosetter family and the A potential buyer can use the following however be extended through Suprasetter basic model are suitable criteria to help him make the right additional post-baking to up to a for use with flexible, manual and decision for the company’s needs: million impressions or more. semi-automatic modes. Both families can be delivered with • Use of UV inks and Single or Multi Cassette Loader and rough printing materials these options can also be retrofitted The use of silver halide plates should in the field. be avoided for UV inks. The solvents are too aggressive. Even when printing • Investments on rough paper, e. g. in packaging The inexpensive violet laser diode, printing, a printing plate that can be in conjunction with the simple post-baked is more effective. imaging principle, means that the Prosetter models represent a low- cost investment with low running and maintenance costs. 26 Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate How can I find the right CtP Solution?

• Differentiation criteria at a glance

Recorder features

Prosetter family Suprasetter family Light source 1 violet laser diode 2 to 6 thermal laser modules with 64 emitters Imaging system Single-beam technology, internal drum Multi-beam technology, external drum Space requirements Depends on configuration Depends on configuration Level of automation Manual to fully automatic Manual to fully automatic Plate throughput 12 – 24 pph 14 – 30 pph Investment costs Minimal Depends on configuration

Printing plates supported

Silver halide plates Photopolymer plates Thermal plates Sensitivity At 405 nm At 405 nm At 830 nm Conditions Daylight brightness, Daylight brightness, Daylight yellow safety light; yellow safety light; daylight for fully-automatic mode daylight for fully-automatic mode Job run length without post-baking 350,000 200,000 150,000 – 250,000 after post-baking n/a ~ 1 million ~ 1 million Use of UV inks No Yes, after post-baking Yes, after post-baking Rough printing materials No Yes, after post-baking Yes, after post-baking Behavior during print No difference No difference No difference to conventional printing plates to conventional printing plates to conventional printing plates Print quality No difference No difference No difference to conventional printing plates to conventional printing plates to conventional printing plates Price of printing plates No difference No difference No difference to conventional printing plates to conventional printing plates to conventional printing plates Time is Money: So why wait any longer? Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate 27 9 Time is Money: So why wait any longer?

Digital workflow systems and CtP 1. For entry into CtP, there must be a 4. A willingness to accept change (both 5. The goal will only be achieved recorder technology are highly advanced. sufficient number of jobs for pro- internal and external) must, in prin- through clear specifications and An investment in a high-performance ducing digital plates if this invest- ciple, be present. This requires good, their on-schedule completion. A pre- workflow that ensures the complete ment is to be justified. This number all-round communication between cise plan of the necessary steps (see automation of the entire prepress stage averages around six to ten four-color all the departments within a com- also section entitled “Checklist”) and leads on to the next stages (press jobs per day/shift. However, this fig- pany, including the field sales team, and the creation of a timescale and and postpress) is therefore a key step ure is heavily dependent on the mix and open communication with the finance plan are essential mile- towards competitive production. of customers and jobs, and also on most important customers regarding stones. Heidelberg offers solutions for all the current workflow configuration. the planned changes (such as data requirements. Of course, for a print- supply, correction cycles, proof ). shop, the print process is the most 2. From a business management per- important stage, not prepress. However, spective, a sufficiently large printing printing begins with prepress. There- capacity also plays a key role. When fore, most of the advantages of a mod- a feasibility study is being drawn up ern workflow and the level of automa- that is tailored to your company, tion that comes with it are reflected in Heidelberg can provide you with the the printing stage. In other words, the expertise needed. press room and the quality of the goods produced in it are the real winners! 3. Trained staff with excellent experi- This statement of course has to be ence in the PostScript sector – possi- qualified with a number of require- bly also with PDF – should be avail- ments, and these will be discussed again able or training must be possible briefly below: within the planned time period. Crucial factors in this context include existing experience of digital proofs and a positive response from the customer’s staff. These requirements will play a key role in defining a schedule for the changeover to an automated overall workflow. 28 Plate Imaging with Computer-to-Plate Checklist 10 Checklist

This checklist is intended as a planning • Number of films supplied. • Redigitization of existing films and Finance planning aid for investments in a digital workflow Percentage requiring redigitization. those supplied, volume, tools • Evaluation of investment aid, with CtP output. It makes no claim to be • Page films imaged in-house, • Implementation of digital proofing regional economic subsidies complete, nor does the implementation full-sheet films, number, square • What existing equipment is to • Evaluation of regional aid for of all the steps have the same importance meters, annual film costs be/can be used further in the digital introducing new, eco-friendly for every size of company. The details of • Is analog proofing used? workflow? technologies the current snapshot and the target anal- Systems, units, annual costs • Number of staff available, ysis are intended exclusively for you at • Is digital proofing already being new activity, costs Time planning, security this stage. They provide you with assis- used? Devices, annual costs • Total investment according to • Total timeframe with checkpoints tance in creating the transparency • Acceptance among staff of digital quotations(s) for individual stages of CtP introduc- needed for your future plans. If you wish proof (as percentage) • Technical scope, level of investment tion to disclose the data contained in this • Number of printing plates to be • Planned film costs. Planned plate • Member of staff or team responsible checklist, it will definitely provide a valu- copied per year, per month, per day, costs or digital/analog plates • Plans for the end of twin-track able basis for further advice from your per shift • Planned savings or added capacity in operation (security) Heidelberg sales partner. • Number of remakes, percentage, print • Disaster plan (worst case). reason for remake (last-minute correc- • Feasibility study with TARGET/ACTUAL Back-up planning Status quo tions, faulty plates, other reason) comparison • Existing prepress equipment • Number of remakes when job Training • Analysis of the current workflow already on press Interior and/or building design • Training for a system administrator, • Number of staff in the prepress stage, • Press downtimes, reason • Designing the interior and awarding appoint representative including plate copy. What activity? • Level of utilization of press(es) contract for its execution and assign- • Training for further technical staff • Number of jobs per year, per month, ment of implementation • Training for the field sales staff per day, per shift Target analysis • Award of contract for network and • Training/support for customers • At what times do peak loads occur? • Detailed description of the planned data communication (generation of PDF files, network, • Number of pages, print sheets, sheet workflow • Planning for air conditioning of communication, proof ) format • Network planning sections. Full air conditioning • Which data do you receive in digital • Planning of data communication including award of contract. Advertising form? • Necessary server capacity. • More capacity, order planning • Which data is supplied as film? Tools for backup and archiving. • Enhanced quality to be communicated Page parts, finished page films, • Image brochure full-sheet films. • Internet

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Publishing Information Trademarks Printed in: 06/05 Heidelberg, the Heidelberg logo, Axis Control, CP2000 Center, Photographs: Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG, HQS Screening, MetaDimension, MetaShooter, Prinance, Agfa-Gevaert AG, Prinect, Prinect Printready, Prinect Printready System, PrintOpen, Glunz & Jensen Signa Station and Speedmaster are registered trademarks of Platemaking: Suprasetter Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG in the U.S. and other countries. Printing: Speedmaster Prosetter is a trademark of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG Finishing: Stahlfolder, Stitchmaster in the U.S. and other countries. Fonts: Heidelberg Gothic, Heidelberg Antiqua Adobe, Acrobat, Distiller and PostScript are either registered trade- Printed in Germany marks or trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the U.S. Copyright © Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG, 2005 and/or other countries. Mac is a registered trademark of Apple Computer Incorporated in the U.S. and other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Subject to technical modifications and other changes. 00.993.6262/01 en 00.993.6262/01