Desktop publishing software has facilitated modification of images on computers, so that they can eventually be printed using desktop printers or sent to commercial presses. The debut of digital platesetters has eliminated the use of film negatives to make offset plates, as printing plates are directly exposed to get digital input through the process of computer-to-plate printing technology. Commercial offset printing or offset lithography, as it is commonly called, uses the primary ink colors namely, cyan, magenta, yellow and black. Further, premixed inks are used to create specific colors called spot colors. Regardless of the type of plate, such as inkjet plate or laser plates, it is important for the press operator to be well-acquainted with the processes, equipment, file format, preparation, and the plate technology.

Inkjet PlateThe inception of computer-to-plate devices has influenced printing mechanisms to a great extent because of their wide applications, high-speed and fast-drying capabilities. Besides, they find extensive use in commercial printing for creating continuous patterns on versatile substrata. Laser plates consisting of two-sided polyester plates provide as high as 10,000 impressions per side. They also facilitate first generation etching and provide incomparable depth plus halftone control. Using desktop software, digital images can go directly to the press, without passing through the traditional film developing process. Daylight handling and chemical-free technology are also among the advantages. Apart from enhanced quality, favorable turnaround time, better output and increased profitability, the technology also reduces hazardous waste disposal. The laser and inkjet plate are silver-free, process-free and eco-friendly.

The computer-to-plate, i.e., CTP concept has seen substantial growth in the screen-printing market. With regard to the pad-printing market, it is still emerging, but making a strong debut.  An inkjet plate usually features inkjet imaged Aluminum plate that is electrochemically grained. Laser plates use advanced engraving systems and recent enhancements in machinery have created a significant place in the market. When compared to offset lithography based on film and pre-sensitized plate systems, the consumable costs of CTP are lower. Apart from simple installation for commercial production, CTP systems reduce manpower and operational costs significantly.

The innovation and refinement in commercial printing is evident from the range of inkjet and laser plates that represent a breakthrough in computer-to-plate technology. It eliminates one generation from the printing process, i.e., the process of film-creation for plate-making, as the digital image is recorded directly from the digital file to the printing plate. The plates come in explicit designs to accommodate different applications and machines.  They are excellent for printing letterheads, business cards and manuscripts involving halftones, screens and spot color. Apart from their increasing use in the offset and screen-printing industry, they are also used in flexography. The laser plate system is gaining a significant hold in the area, when compared to the inkjet plate owing to its favorable etch depth, halftone patterns, fine tune capability and long-term profitability.  The future is likely to see more conversions from traditional plates.