Semi- Automated Platesetters From Creo

By: E&P Staff Creo Inc. said that in April it will add semi-automatic configurations to its line of Trendsetter News thermal platesetters to facilitate transition to computer-to-plate output.

The following month, Creo plans to launch Synapse NewsManager, its PDF workflow-management tool to improve newspaper productivity, grow sales and reduce material costs. Based on open-file standards, Synapse NewsManager integrates into existing systems and is scalable to the needs of any size printer, from contract shops to multi-site metro, national or international dailies. Enabling flexible and automated workflow, from edition plan to plate production, Synapse NewsManager includes Edition Planner (defines attributes of upcoming publications), Database Server (reads edition plans, maintains workflow definitions, tracks all processing activity) and Process Monitor (allows operators and management to quickly visualize a publication's overall status).

Other new Creo software includes Prinergy Evo, which complements Synapse NewsManager by delivering PDF processing power. Evo workflow controls prepress, plate and/or film production for maximum productivity and output quality. Based on open file standards such as JDF, PDF and PJTF, Evo provides speed and flexibility to extend close times and output more pages faster. With a PDF workflow, the newspaper printer can use a standard internal file format that is optimized for efficient production, yet retain flexibility for late changes and provide for high-quality, resolution-independent printing on different proofing devices and print technologies. Evo provides process templates and an intuitive interface. Evo also enables use of Staccato screening to resolve fine detail, eliminate halftone rosettes and moir?, and improve color and tone stability on press. Evo also works with Creo PrintLink software to produce CIP3-compliant PPF files for ink-key settings.

Synapse Prepare preflight and file-preparation software creates production-ready PDF files. Advertisers can create PDF files from QuarkXPress or Adobe InDesign that precisely match the newspaper's technical specifications. By identifying and fixing problems early, Synapse Prepare can reduce the costs of reworking and re-submitting digital content.