Launched at Ipex 2002, Presstek’s aim for the Dimension range was to create a ‘complete imaging solution’ to go with the firm’s line of chemical-free plates. It replaced the PearlSetter – Presstek’s first off-press imaging device.
The range was offered in 2, 4 and 8pp models, christened respectively the Dimension 200, 400 and 800. The 200 was a B3 format unit, the 400 B2 and the 800 for up to B1.
“The 400 was the first machine that really set off chemistry-free technology in the UK and our latest Dimension platesetters still lead the way,” claims Presstek Europe sales and marketing director Ray Hillhouse.
The crucial difference between the Dimension and the PearlSetter was that the Dimension was smaller, offered a wider plate range and used different laser technology – thermal laser imaging – which eradicates the need for special lighting environments.
This combination of factors – and in particular its small footprint – has led the Dimension 400 to become a hit with customers such as Sean Codling, joint managing director of The Square Group, who waxes lyrical about the benefits of his machine. “The Presstek Dimension has taken the quality of our litho printed jobs to another level. As a result we are producing some fantastic work with quality that we believe is the best in the market,” says Codling.
Clearly lots of other companies agree, with around 70 Dimension 400 installations in the UK alone, and several hundred more global sales.
Daylight working
As it’s thermal, the Dimension uses daylight working Anthem Pro plates, which only require a simple automated wash with water after imaging to prepare the plate for printing. This eliminates the problems and additional costs associated with the purchase and disposal of chemicals.
The platesetter uses Presstek’s ProFire imaging head, which the firm claims gives “unparalleled reliability and performance”. ProFire imaging integrates FirePower diodes and fast laser drivers into a unified module that results in fast, high resolution and high quality plates without artefacts.
At 2,540dpi, the Dimension can image a plate in just over three minutes and the Autoload option helps to speed up the process by automating plate loading and cleaning. Autoload supports multiple plate sizes and is available as both a factory-installed option or an in-the-field upgrade.
Optional direct imaging (DI) tools are also available to optimise digital workflow and increase productivity. DI-Merge enables pre-press operators to combine multiple post-RIP files into one, saving materials and time when outputting. DI-View allows on-screen soft proofing of ripped files prior to imaging and DI-Write automates the conversion of one-bit TIFF bitmap files into Presstek DI file format.
The whole Dimension range was upgraded in 2005, with the introduction of Presstek’s ProFire Exel Imaging – new models are the 225,425 and the 450 (the 450 comes with an optional inline wash unit).
In terms of pricing, when the 400 4pp unit was launched, it sold for over £80,000. Since then, like all platesetters, prices have come down due to advances in technology. New 400 machines, fully equipped with basic RIP, now go for around £60,000.
Among secondhand dealers, you will find very few models, because Presstek likes to take as many units back as it can and these are then refurbished either at its UK head office or its factory in the US. Prices vary dependent on condition and usage but a 4pp machine complete with workflow is available from about £40,000.
If the unthinkable should happen and your new or secondhand machine breaks down, Presstek is well-equipped to deal with such eventualities as it carries a full line of spares in the UK and has a team of 16 engineers. Fully inclusive, labour-only contracts are offered on all Dimension models.
SPECIFICATION
Max plate size
• 680x780mm
Min plate size
• 240x240mm
Max image size
• 604x750mm
Resolution
• 1,200/2,400dpi user selectable
• 1,270/2540dpi user selectable
Imaging time
• Three minutes and six seconds per plate (at around 2,540dpi)
Price
• New circa £60,000 (with basic RIP)
• Used circa £40,000 (with workflow)
What to look for
• Overall condition of the machine
• Age of lasers
