What is Computer-to-Plate ?

Computer-to-plate is the process of transferring digital data from computers directly onto printing plates, hence the term computer-to-plate. This process eliminates the need for film and chemical proofs by utilising PDF files. Contract quality digital proofs are produced for colour matching.

Faster turnaround time - Computer-to-plate eliminates these traditional steps in the production cycle:

• Production of film
• Production of chemical proofs
• Film stripping and planning
• Exposing film to plates

Removing steps from the production cycle and outputting directly to plate reduces prepress production time and with the precision and accuracy of the plates the printer can also achieve improved quality in less time.

Quality improvements - Computer-to-plate produces a sharper and cleaner printed result because:

• The registration of a job is performed with digital precision by the CtP plate-setter eliminating potential for human error during the film stripping process.
• Plates exposed by laser generate a sharper and cleaner image than a traditional plate using light exposure with the potential for soft-edging due to halation, refraction and light scatter.