Kodak proudly celebrates three decades of pioneering thermal plate imaging, a breakthrough that transformed prepress and printing. Introduced at drupa 1995, Kodak’s thermal CTP technology—alongside the first thermal platesetter developed by Creo (acquired by Kodak in 2005)—set a new industry standard, replacing visible-light CTP with superior stability, image quality, and efficiency.
KODAK SQUARESPOT Technology revolutionized print precision with up to 10,000-dpi resolution, delivering unmatched dot reproduction, sharp details, and accurate registration. This innovation reduced errors, waste, and downtime while increasing output—essential for high-demand production environments. It also paved the way for process-free offset plates, an area where Kodak leads today.
R.R. Donnelley & Sons Company (RRD) was the first to adopt thermal plate imaging in 1995. Alan Gardner, SVP of Global Engineering & Process Management at RRD, remarked: “We’re proud to have been the first printer to use Kodak’s thermal plate imaging solution 30 years ago. Our ongoing collaboration has contributed to advancing this technology, and we look forward to continued success together.”
Continuing the Legacy of Innovation
Over the past 30 years, Kodak has consistently evolved its thermal platesetter and plate portfolio. Today, it ranks among the world’s top CTP manufacturers, offering the fastest 8-up platesetter, advanced VLF and XLF solutions, and the widely adopted KODAK SONORA Process Free Plates, used by over 6,000 printers worldwide.
Laurent Pollina, President of France’s Imprimerie Pollina, recently invested in Kodak’s latest CTP technology. “For over 20 years, we have relied on Kodak’s precision and productivity. Our new MAGNUS Q3600 Titan Platesetter with Multi-Pallet Loader automation has modernized and streamlined our platemaking,” he said.
Jim Continenza, Kodak’s Executive Chairman and CEO, added: “Celebrating 30 years of thermal imaging innovation underscores our commitment to excellence. We continue to push the boundaries with highly automated, cutting-edge solutions that empower our customers to achieve their business goals profitably.”
