Digital printing revolves around the methods being using for printing services using a variety of different media. The methods and equipment used for digital printing are the most significant differences in digital printing compared to traditional print such as offset printing.
Digital Printing Methods
Digital printing is generally done in small runs, whereas offset printing is used for large runs. The equipment used for digital printing is computers, software and different types of printers.
The Cost
Initially, the cost of digital printing is higher per page. This is offset because the process doesn’t require all of the technical steps that traditional printing requires or the equipment like printing plates. For printing companies, they have found that they can realize some significant savings because there is a reduction in labour.
The Benefits
The introduction of digital printing has brought a lot of additional benefits to many different industries. For example, small businesses can have small runs done instead of having large volume printing tasks completed. It is known as on-demand printing.
Another significant benefit is the turn around time is much quicker, and modifications are much easier to make.
Methods
The methods used make a big difference for those who are in the print business. Some have focused on fine art inkjet printing. This is a simple method of printing from an image file directly to the inkjet printer.
Another method is with the use of digital laser printing. In this process, the images are transposed onto photographic paper that is light sensitive. The transfer is done through lasers. The final outcome with this form of digital printing can be most impressive.
Digital cylinder printing is another option for printing companies that want to transition into the digital print market. The process for this is where the cylinder machine is able to lay ink onto a curved surface.