Computer to Plate (CTP)



Computer to plate (CTP) is an imaging technology used in modern printing processes. In this technology, an image created in a Desktop Publishing (DTP) computer file is output directly to a printing plate.

This compares with the older technology, Computer to film (CTF), where the computer file is output onto a photographic film. This film is then used to make a printing plate, in a similar manner to a contact proof in darkroom photography.

One of the key elements to ensure CTP plates work without problems is to have a strict Quality Control system. In the early days of CTP printers attempted to use densitometers to check the plates. These were not effective so CC-Dot a new dot-meter device was developed using digital camera technology to meet the requirements of the plate manufacturers.