Product & Technology Guide

Transcription

1 Product & Technology Guide

2 Cobalt-8 The world s first violet-laser plate manufacturing system Product and Technology Guide Over the last few years, the promise of digital platesetting has received a great deal of attention from the prepress and printing marketplace. As a concept, platesetting enables significant improvements to the world of digital prepress. It allows printers to; Raise quality by eliminating interim generations Eliminate film production Respond more quickly to customers Automate and streamline the digital workflow Increase profitability However, the number of printers who have actually purchased platesetting solutions remains relatively low. Why? Because the expense and complexity of most first and second-generation platesetting solutions kept some printers from purchasing one although many expressed strong interest. Or they may not have a fully digital workflow in place. Now Escher-Grad s Cobalt-8 makes platesetting a reality with a complete, fully integrated plate manufacturing system the only system to combine an imaging engine, processor, and workflow-enhancing tools into one solution. Welcome to the third generation of platesetting Cobalt delivers maximum quality and productivity in an extremely flexible and costeffective solution. It reflects Escher-Grad s unequaled expertise in digital imaging technologies, and its ability to integrate to all prepress environments. Cobalt is a modular system available in various configurations. The system comprises: A choice of workflow connections An Open-System design for today and tomorrow Cobalt is designed and built to ensure the highest quality, productivity and reliability today and provides an easy path to future upgrades and options. Wherever possible, Escher-Grad s design engineers have included standard industry hardware and software based on an architecture that is truly open. Central to Cobalt s control electronics is a world-standard Intel PC; this allows Cobalt s users the freedom to choose from a vast array of communications, control and front-end workstations and software. And to rest assured that replacement parts and software are readily available.

3 ImageSpool A workflow tool that won t limit your options Escher-Grad led the industry in offering film and plate imaging systems that would integrate easily into any prepress workflow. Unlike other providers we have no interest in tying our users into one fixed hardware and software solution ImageSpool is our key productivity tool that lets you decide which digital workflow best suits your needs. Cobalt can work seamlessly with front-end software and hardware solutions from all of the major providers including; Adobe, Agfa, Barco, CreoScitex, Dainippon Screen, Fuji, Harlequin, Heidelberg, PCC/Artworks, Rampage etc. By allowing multiple paths into the platesetter Escher-Grad enables printers to preserve the investment in training and knowledge their operators have acquired, and easily transfer those skills into highvolume plate manufacturing. Once installed and configured, ImageSpool will run quietly in the background as a central hub connecting multiple RIPs or workflows to the Cobalt-8. An extremely intuitive user-interface allows operators to quickly see how work is progressing and quickly change priorities and even remake plates without interrupting your front-end staff. ImageSpool is not just a full-featured workflow tool; it is a mechanism for guaranteeing your investment. With it, you can rest assured that as changes take place in the software arena, your investment in the Cobalt-8 is secure. Escher-Grad s worldwide sales and support network is geared to providing you with a complete step-by-step program for making the transition from film to plate manufacturing, while preserving your investment in people and tools ImageSpool is a key part of that commitment. The Cobalt-8 imaging engine At the heart of the system is the precise, reliable Cobalt-8 imaging engine, which can output up to 20 full size plates per hour at 2,400 dots per inch. A generous internal drum format up to (810 x 1070mm) makes the Cobalt-8 the ideal size for fully imposed 8-up plate production. Being able to handle variable plate sizes (from GTO formats and larger) makes the Cobalt-8 an even more versatile tool, now you can serve presses from 2 to 8-up from the same machine. Plates Cobalt images a full range of high-quality silver halide and photopolymer plates. Feature Benefit Advanced system design Modular component design: Choice of configurations to fit individual budgets and production workflows Supports PostScript Level 3 RIPs with full support for PDF workflows Works with today s PostScript technologies and workflows. Engineered to support future file formats and workflows

4 Quality Productivity Ease of use Support and diagnostics Internal drum design Ensures reliability, accuracy and consistency Large format output: (810 x Ideal for fully imposed 8-up 1070mm) plate production. Also supports plates sizes from (400 x 510mm) for 2, 4, 6 Vacuum-zoned drum with variable area control Three-point registration system Resolutions from 1200 to 3080dpi Support for FM (stochastic) screening EscherCal calibration software Multi-stage production pipeline Escher-Grad Neuron network for sub-component operation and monitoring Simple plate loading and unloading PostScript Level 3 RIPs and ImageSpool software Point-and-click user interface Adjustable pin registration system Sophisticated remote diagnostics and error reporting systems and 8-up plates Holds plate securely and ensures perfect registration. Different sizes and thickness of plate material supported Precision alignment and perfect registration Wide range of applications from text books to high-end color catalogues and art books Supports the highest level of print quality Advanced digital quality control software with system-wide calibration tools System can simultaneously image and process files, maximizing plate output capacity Increased throughput, uptime and productivity Enables fast imaging of plates with different sizes and thickness Ensures fast processing times and the highest levels of performance and productivity Easily manage plate production workflow from front-end workstation Matches any plate notching and bending system Continuous self-monitoring. Automatic maintenance notifications. Troubleshoot and fix problems from remote locations. Decreases downtime

5 Windows -based user interface with Internet remote-control and Escher- Grad web support Access to user support from the front-end workstation Advanced technology for third-generation platesetting Cobalt includes many technical innovations that raise platesetting to a new level of quality and reliability. This Product and Technology Guide will highlight the key technology inside the system, exploring each of the major subsystems. In short, Cobalt provides a comprehensive system for high-performance platesetting. It makes platesetting easier and more predictable all through the careful use of innovative technology. And Cobalt is a modular, open, fully upgradeable solution that will retain its value long into the future. For example, it s fully compatible with PostScript Level 3 RIPs and emerging PDF workflow tools. Cobalt is designed to meet the real-world platesetting requirements of printing operations. During the design stage, Escher-Grad drew upon its expertise in electronics, optics, plate imaging, laser technology and more. But we also drew upon the real experts printers. We met with printers around the world to find out what they needed in a platesetting system. Escher-Grad engineers apprenticed at printing plants to learn firsthand about production requirements. And we examined existing platesetting systems on the market with an eye toward opportunities for improvement. The result is Cobalt, a complete digital plate manufacturing solution that meets the demands of today s printing operations. It s important to note that Cobalt is a brand-new imaging design from Escher-Grad. It was created from the ground up for the unique challenges of efficient platesetting. However, it benefits from Escher s experience as the world s leading technology provider of imaging systems which allows us to bring proven technology to this new product category. A modular, flexible design approach A key concept embodied in the design is flexibility, which allows the system to grow, as a printer s needs change. Cobalt is a modular system that allows you to choose the capabilities you need today, and expand when your needs change in the future. For example, changing between different types of laser can be done quickly and easily in the field. Or upgrade and incorporate different workflows to simplify plate manufacturing. Field-upgradeable components Key subsystems such as the optical carriage and laser can be completely removed and replaced with new technology as and when it becomes available. This approach ensures that Cobalt users will continue to benefit from the strongest technological solutions on the market. It allows printers to rest assured that they can stay competitive and that their investment in platesetting will continue to pay off for years to come.

6 A steady pipeline of plates Cobalt is an extremely efficient platesetting solution that allows you to output up to twenty 8-up plates per hour in bright yellow safelight conditions. This high level of productivity is made possible by a multi-stage pipeline concept which allows for interpreting, imaging, and processing to occur simultaneously. For example, while one plate is being processed, another is prepared for exposure. As a result, production cycles overlap, enabling true parallel processing. This approach ensures that highquality plates are available more quickly without any delays within the system. And this highly productive approach is only possible since Escher designed all components of the system. Cobalt includes innovations at every stage of the process from loading incoming plates to registering them for exposure to easing the unload process. Internal drum platesetting for accuracy and reliability Cobalt features an internal drum design that provides significant advantages over external drum and flatbed designs. This cost-effective, reliable approach allows Cobalt-8 to provide a stable, high-productivity plate production solution. Innovative internal drum The internal drum is at the core of Cobalt, providing a stable, precision-engineered foundation for imaging. Cobalt s drum weighs more than 2,000 lbs. And is constructed of a patented mix of crushed granite, quartz and resin all finely shaped and finished to exacting tolerances. The choice of unique materials and processes ensures that Cobalts are immune to the typical changes of temperature, humidity and vibration that affect other systems in production environments. The adjustable, vacuum-zoned drum surface holds all sizes of plates securely throughout the imaging process from 2-up GTO plates to 8-up Speedmaster plates. Proven 3-point registration system Once in the drum, a plate is positioned with a unique 3-point registration system that allows you to match your current (and future) notching and bending system. The registration system uses electronic sensors to detect contact between all three register pins and an extremely accurate measuring gauge to detect the placement of the outside edge of the plate and maintain the gripper edge throughout the imaging cycle resulting in world-beating accuracy and consistency. This flexible solution increases quality and supports the specific requirements of any press. The result? Superior image registration throughout the production process to the printed sheet. In fact, registration is within 0.2 mil a remarkably tight tolerance. An advanced imaging system designed for accurate exposure Cobalt s imaging system is designed to expose every plate with the greatest precision. All components the laser, spinner motor, transport mechanisms and more are carefully coordinated and monitored by the Cobalt s on-board computers, which communicate key information directly to the operator. In each area of the optical system, you ll find innovations that make Cobalt the most advanced platesetting system available.

7 An accurate, stable laser At the heart of Cobalt s optical system is a violet laser-diode chosen for its precision, stability and wide power range. A laser baffle maintains dot shape and eliminates fogging. And our spot size is optimized for highest quality output. Adjustment for variations During exposure Cobalt continually self-monitors its output power and adjusts itself to any changes in ambient temperature and humidity. Each an every scan line Cobalt images is checked for accuracy of exposure and placement 24,000 times per minute! An ultra-smooth transport mechanism Cobalt s transport mechanism is based on second generation enhancements to Escher- Grad s pioneering linear motors. The entire optical carriage floats on a cushion of air delivering unsurpassed image quality and reliability. Modular imaging system The modular design of Cobalt s optical carriage and laser source allows it to be replaced or upgraded to accommodate the requirements of new plates and laser technology. This design approach anticipates and accommodates fluctuations and developments that make platesetting an ever-moving target. High-quality, flexible screening Cobalt supports both positive and negative imaging, allowing users to work the way that best suits their operations. Support for Harlequin Precision Screening, Adobe screening and stochastic screening allows users to choose from a vast array of screening technologies for the level of quality they require. Operator software and controls designed for simplicity and ease of use While Cobalt brings sophisticated technology to bear on the challenges of platesetting, it s an extremely simple, easy-to-use system. Its user interface provides unparalleled control. Two-button simplicity Cobalt only has two buttons a Plate Load button and an emergency shut-off button. All other operations are controlled and monitored from a standard PC interface. PC-based operator controls Cobalt s user interface does much to dispel any notion that platesetting has to be complicated. The user interface resides on the RIP or server workstation, and provides an intuitive environment for cross-platform compatibility and Internet access. One look at the interface will reassure you that all operators will find Cobalt extremely intuitive to use.

8 Productivity-enhancing software The system s powerful RIP and ImageSpool software components both ensure the fast processing times that are key to maintaining the highest levels of performance and productivity. ImageSpool s Output Manager ensures that when a plate is needed on the press, the data will be immediately available for Cobalt to begin imaging making the concept of Just-In-Time Platemakeing a reality. By storing the post-ripped data, the imaging time is reliable and predictable every time. Additionally, maintaining on-line access to the imaging data until the job is off the press enables the operator to quickly remake the plate if necessary minimizing downtime. This approach saves money and time by increasing production efficiency. Constant feedback Cobalt features its own local PC, which coordinates and monitors all the components of the system. This built-in intelligence allows the system to provide a remarkable amount of useful information to the operator. Tools and technologies for a digital workflow Platesetting requires that printers adopt a fully digital workflow, which may require significant changes in the way that printers take information in from customers, handle it, process it, and output it on plate. Automating this workflow and reducing operator intervention is the key to profitability. Cobalt provides a highly efficient model of platesetting, one that requires only one operator to perform tasks that traditionally involved several skilled specialists. Advanced technology for responsive support The technology to support platesetting is vital, since it keeps users confidence high and ensures maximum uptime. Escher-Grad s responsive support completes the Cobalt solution. This advanced support matches the overall high level of innovation within the system and provides you with a full range of support tools and channels. Extensive self-diagnostics Cobalt keeps a close eye on itself, gathering information that allows it to make proactive maintenance notifications, so service can be scheduled conveniently and effectively. Remote diagnostics Remote diagnostics keep the Escher-Grad team in close contact with every Cobalt installation ensuring that the system is always in optimal order. The PC-based communications software that is a standard part of the Cobalt-8 allows our engineers to have as much control over a single system as if it were in our manufacturing facility. Every moving part, every parameter and instruction can be tested and assessed remotely. Unlike other manufacturers, Escher-Grad includes this technology as a standard feature with each unit we install.

9 Escher-Grad s Global Customer Satisfaction Center (GCSC) Since Cobalt-8 software is PC-based, it s simple to access Escher-Grad s On-line Customer Satisfaction Center directly from the front-end workstation. Our On-line Customer Satisfaction Center represents the next generation of worldwide user support technology. Escher-Grad was the first computer-to-plate manufacturer to provide 24- hour, 7 days a week support via our home page on the World Wide Web. Through the Customer Satisfaction Center, Escher-Grad supports your investment in Cobalt and helps you keep your system up and running at all times. We also provide updates, tips, user advice and other valuable information. Tailor-made support programs Escher-Grad set a new precedent for the industry several years ago with the introduction of factory-based technical training programs for our customers. Our community of users enjoys a choice of custom-fit support packages ranging from 24hr, 7 day-a-week service through to factory training and parts inventories held at your site. Whatever your needs and budget allow, we have a support option that will ensure maximum uptime for your platesetter. Owning Cobalt does not entail an expensive, long-term service contract instead, it means having one of the industry s best support organizations dedicated to your continued satisfaction. Local and remote notifications An external display sends a clear signal when the system needs attention. And a remote user notification keeps users aware of any errors even when they re not near the system. The result? All system issues can be quickly resolved, thanks to Cobalt s constant vigilance, and its ability to inform others when the system needs attention. With a simple Internet connection our engineering teams can access and run any Cobalt, anywhere in the world. With systems spread as far apart as Italy and China, we know how important rapid response and resolution is to you. That s why our global sales and support network receives constant training, software updates, parts inventories and most importantly, constant contact with you, our customers. Technology that takes platesetting to the next level With Cobalt, printers can begin benefiting from the significant workflow and time and cost saving offered by digital plate manufacturing. And you can be confident that you are entering the platesetting arena at the right time when the technology is available to make it a stable, production-ready process. Through technological innovations and advanced support, Escher-Grad is ready to help assist your move to plate manufacturing. And if you are not ready with a fully digital workflow, our representatives can provide the growth path. By moving ahead in manageable steps, you will be able to accelerate your return on investment, while increasing the productivity and profitability of your printing plant. Your operation will grow at the rate you choose, and Escher-Grad will serve as your complete, world-class vendor, offering support far into the future. To find out more about Cobalt, contact Escher-Grad Technologies today and discover a new world of digital plate manufacturing.