The common disadvantage of CTP systems is the need for higher-priced digital plates. Currently only two companies use the traditional media - basysPrint and Esko-Graphics.
1. basysPrint
basysPrint ranks among the world's printing industry with its invented CTcP (computer-based direct traditional plate). By the end of 2003, the company had installed more than 500 sets of CTcP in the world, which was widely recognized. The heart of the basysPrint plate imaging device is DSI (digital screening imaging) technology. DSI modulates the converted exposure data to ultraviolet light for precise imaging on plates. The UV-Setter N546, which was printed on a new newspaper for the first time on drupa 2004, is using DSI technology, which is faster than before. UV-Setter's exposure head can continuously move on the plate during the exposure process, increasing the exposure speed by nearly twice.
2. Esko-6raphics
Espresso is a new quad open format computer-to-machine traditional plate (CTcP) solution. The system uses a unique method to digitally image the traditional purple plate. Espresso's imaging mechanism uses a mechanical structure derived from the world-famous EskoScan Dot Copy scanner. This high-precision, high-reliability mechanical design is similar to the working principle of contact printing. In addition, the mature XY scan output technology and the patented air-bearing suspension optical head are sufficient to ensure that the entire plate has a consistent dot quality. In addition, the characteristics of the printing plate and the printing plate on the printing press are similar. Using the same glossy printing plate and the same printing plate developing machine, the workflow of CTF/CTP process can be easily realized.