VIM, which demonstrated the plate in concept form at last year's Drupa, hopes to differentiate itself by developing a plate that will react directly to Epson inks, unlike current systems that replace the inks with special fluids.

Avigdor Bieber, founder and chief executive of VIM Technologies, said: "This is a technological breakthrough, as previous inkjet-imaged plates from other suppliers have required that a special imaging ink be used.

"Because we use standard, original manufacturer's inks the printer's warranty is preserved. It also means that the same printer can still be used for conventional full-colour proofing, saving space and money."

VIM's JT Direct Inkjet Plate can be imaged on a standard high quality Epson Stylus Pro UltraChrome model, using the standard Epson aqueous inks. The imaged plates require no processing and are fixed by oven baking.

The company is currently carrying out the commercialisation process for the polyester plates, which will be released in March 2009. The commercialisation of the aluminium plates is due to follow in April 2009.

According to VIM, the plates offer AM screening at up to 150lpi and FM screening at up to 175lpi apparent.

Bieber said that the company had shown good results at Drupa and had exceeded expectations in its initial testing with customers.

"We have made great progress since then, showing exceptional results in run-length and printing quality," he added.

Printers who have yet to switch to CTP could find the cost of entry reduced by investing in an inkjet-based system.

VIM said it was targeting small- and medium-sized commercial printers, to whom "a real low-cost CTP entry solution" would appeal.

Also see: Presstek continues patent fight with VIM Technologies