Abstract

The laser possesses unique properties that can be exploited for achieving the objective of converting digital data to pressplates. It is a source of high intensity light that can be focused to a fine spot, precisely directed, and electronically modulated at high speeds. Its high intensity permits image recording on unconventional material for use as printing plates and/or lithofilm. The labor and material economies afforded to the user by an inexpensive imaging material that requires no postrecording processing have immediate economic advantages over the conventional labor intensive platemaking process. The electronic control feature permits image processing, remote transmission, electronic storage, computer output graphics, and other capabilities.

© 1976 Optical Society of America