* better registration and dot quality.
But challenges remain, namely:
* the higher prices of thermal plates and platesetters;
* a need for all-digital stripping;
* re-RIPing for changes; and
* obsolescence of previous film, proofs, etc.
While cost considerations generally take precedence in comparing digital and traditional platemaking, quality must be considered, as well. The clearest benefit of CTP in terms of production quality is the way the dot is created. Roberts explains that with CTP, the sidewalls of the dot are perpendicular to the substrate as with a cylinder. (Compare this to a conventional dot, closer in shape to a cone or anthill.) "Regardless of packing on press or other gain issues," he continues, "a thermal dot can better perpetuate a quality image on the press." For the printer, better dots mean better image quality.