Taking The Direct Route

"It makes us competitive on a production timing standpoint at runs of under 50 or 60 sheets," McMaster adds.

This speed will be possible because of advances in laser technology. The new 500 series will use the ProFire integrated imaging system, from Presstek. Presstek has been involved in the DI world for many years, providing the imaging systems for the initial Heidelberg and Adast DI products. ProFire will reportedly make direct imaging, both on- and off-press, significantly more affordable. Its laser diode system comprises four-beam laser diodes and fast laser drivers.