A little under 10 years ago, computer-to-plate (CTP) systems began to come into their own. Take-up had previously been relatively slow, but around the turn of the millennium, adoption rates began to take off and it was into this environment that ECRM released the Mako 2 violet platesetter at Ipex 2002.
The machine was developed as an entry-level piece of kit for those moving away from film. As a result, it was designed with relatively few moving parts, which resulted in it being easier to use and, importantly, easier to maintain. This broadened its appeal, according to Ken Tucker, international sales manager at ECRM.
Tucker says that one of the main strengths of the machine was its ability to image right to the edge of the plate. The platesetter could also easily image any plate size accommodating 2-up and some 4-up presses. Targeted at small to medium-sized companies, the Mako 2 could image at a speed of 27 GTO-format plates per hour at 2,400dpi.
Edge-to-edge imaging
The machine works by positioning plates against a pin bar, using either press notches for registration or the plate edges. Once in position, the plate is clamped in place. Imaging starts and the plate is fed through the machine, passing under the laser onto the conveyor. The plate is then transferred to the processor in order to be processed and finished. The Mako 2 also has a linking system as standard, so that it can be connected direct to the plate processor.
The Mako 2 offered a resolution range of 1,200-3,556dpi and could image violet-sensitive photopolymer and silver halide metal plates. It had a maximum line screen of 200lpi. It was also supplied as standard with a PC-based server hardware and software package, two pin bars for different press registration systems and a power conditioner (UPS), to protect the machine and laser against power spikes.
Just before Drupa 2008 the machine was given a revamp with a newer 120MW laser diode fitted and renamed the Mako 2x. "It's a different style to the original," explains Tucker. "It is still the same shape and size, but the pin register bar is at the side of the machine not the back so you can register more easily." The Mako 2x also clamps automatically compared to its predecessor's semi-automatic capability.
ECRM will take back a used Mako as part-exchange and a typical package includes a RIP, delivery and installation, training and 12 months labour warranty. At the time of writing, PressXchange, PrintWeek's sister website for used machinery, has a 2003 refurbished Mako 2, which is being offered by Bob Weber, based in Cleveland, for around £16,000 with a six-month parts guarantee.
When buying a used model check the condition of the imaging heads. Also check that the UPS has not been used with another machine. The list price for a new Mako 2x is $55,000 (£33,615) plus shipping costs. A new Mako 2 will cost $49,000 (£29,950). Expect to pay around £12,000 to £16,000 for a used model depending on whether the RIP has been upgraded and the machine refurbished.
SPECIFICATIONS
Speed 27 GTO plates per hour at 2,400dpi
Max plate size 560x670mm
Resolution 1,200-3,556dpi
Max line screen 200lpi
Weight 145.4kg
Footprint 965x1,600mm
Price
New Mako 2x: circa £33,615
New Mako 2: circa £29,950
Used Mako 2: £12,000-£16,000
What to look for
Imaging head condition
UPS not used with another machine
RIP upgrade
