The Natal Witness' Commercial Printing Division is not only saving time and money since the installation of an Encad NovaJet PROe 60" wide format inkjet printer, but believes its business will also grow. Works Manager Trevor Cape says that although the PROe was bought for imposition intermediate proofing the PROe's variety of applications had created a lot of interest amongst visiting clients.

"We did not intend on using the PROe for any other purpose than proof reading but it might change soon. A few customers had already asked if we could print one-off posters with the PROe. The printer is so versatile that we can offer a much wider service to our customers."

Cape says that the PROe is the ideal digital proofing machine. "We specialise in books and magazines, and can't afford to deliver incorrect final products to our customers. The NovaJet PROe, connected to a Scitex computer to film system, allows for imposition intermediate proofing. This encompasses a RIP once output many concept (ROOM) which ensures accuracy of proof.

"Previously most of the work was done by hand. We received single A4 films from a customer and had to patch them down by hand. The dyeline proofs were also done by hand. Now the document is printed out on the PROe to give clients an indication of what the final product will look like, and for them to compare the play out with the hard copy for the correct page position. On approval of the proof the file is finally output to a Scitex Dolev image setter for imaging onto film."

According to Cape the productivity in the Commercial Printing Division is expected to improve significantly. "Thanks to the PROe's speed and accuracy we are saving on costs, time and labour."

First Graphics' Imaging National Sales Manager Eric Morgan says the NovaJet PROe is a profitable business investment for prepress houses, service bureaux and production houses because of its speed and volume capabilities. "Used for blue line proofing the NovaJet PROe saves time and costs. Mistakes can be detected and corrected on the proof before the final document is printed. It also features a 500 ml extended ink system with quick connect plumbing fittings and removable reservoirs."

First Graphics

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