Electronic Prepress Preparation

Electronic Prepress Preparation Introduction Purpose Increasingly, more sophisticated digital presses are appearing in work spaces. These machines allow the DM or LI to electronically program (digitize) the job parameters into memory instead of using conventional mechanicals and press plates. Because prepress preparation is minimal, short-run or small jobs are more economical to run. Digitized printing allows flexibility during the revision process of a book and eliminates the need for a stockpile or large inventory at distribution points. Rapid turnaround time, now defined in hours, not days, increases the customer base and customer satisfaction. The term on-demand printing is often, but not solely, associated with digitized printing. Digital printing Digital printing is a relatively new concept in the printing industry. This type of printing uses plates, created by a spark discharge, to print. This eliminates liquids, such as ink and water used in traditional offset lithography. Digital printing is defined as any printing using a raster-based process to produce an image carrier or replicate directly to a substrate from digital document files. Color applications, currently limited, are increasing as the new technology develops. Eventually, digital approaches will apply to every facet of graphics communication whether you print 1,000, 100, or 1 duplicate. Make sure you read and understand the operating manuals that pertain to the equipment. 1-55