Computer to film

Computer to film
ScanView photosetter DotMate5000

Computer to Film (CTF) is a print workflow involving the printing from a computer, straight to film. This film is then burned onto a lithographic plate, using a plate burner. The plate is then put on an offset printing press to make a product (usually thousands of copies). This process requires a clean environment, skilled workers, and a well thought out proofing system / workflow to maximize quality.

CTF is being replaced with the more advanced CTP (Computer to Plate) technology.

See also