Processes: Digital

The newest printing method, digital is quickly changing and becoming more efficient. Digital presses allow the computer files to be fed directly to the printing equipment itself (called Computer To Print or CTPt), transferring a fresh image with each cycle onto a photo conductor plate, which then transfers to the paper. Each cycle being a fresh impression makes digital the process of choice for variable information printing and prototypes.

Digital printing often displaces screen printing in certain runs, but is also viewed as a supplement to many short-run printing projects, particularly those with four-color process and skin tones. Several types of inks and processes have been developed to accommodate different uses, such as large format printing.

Digital presses use electrophotographic photoconductor, ink-jet, ion or electron charge deposition, magnetography, thermal transfer, thermal dye sublimation and electro-coagulation technologies.

PROS - Eliminating the need to make film and plates significantly reduces production time and cost, and quality rivals that of offset. There is no minimum quantity with digital printing Ð you can print just one box if that is all you need.

CONS - This process shifts the pre-press work onto the designer instead of the printer. Speed is much slower than plate processes, as the amount of computer memory required is enormous.

COST - $$$
With slower speed comes higher cost per unit, and is generally not cost-effective for runs of more than 2500, although that number is increasing with new technology.

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