Escher-Grad to Launch Fully-Automated Cobalt Violet CTP System at DRUPA 2004

Montreal, Canada - April 19th, 2004 -- Escher-Grad Technologies Inc. today announced they will launch the fully-automated Cobalt-4 and Cobalt-8 Violet CTP Systems at DRUPA 2004 in Düsseldorf, Germany on May 6th. With this latest edition, the Cobalt product line now spans the entire range of press sizes, from 216 x 279 mm to 1524 x 2032 mm, and meets all printers requirements, from manual to fully-automated systems. The Fully-automated Cobalt-8 will be showcased running live demonstrations throughout the exhibition on the Escher-Grad Stand.

The fully-automated Cobalt’s advanced plate handling provides maximum value, reliability and performance for a true daylight operating system. Two, high-capacity, motorized SmartCassettes hold up to 440 plates online and an independent plate trolley and dual-chamber system design mean a single operator can reload plates even while imaging is in process, for truly uninterrupted operation. The sophisticated plate extraction system automatically differentiates between interleaf and plate ensuring carefree cassette replenishment, eliminating false loads and costly, time-consuming plate jams. The contactless 4-point plate-edge detection system prepares the plate for alignment with the in-drum electronic micro-tuning registration pins while the plate shuttle gently transfers it to the high-precision internal drum imaging surface and, once imaged, through to the integrated active bridge to the online processor. And all the while, the system has simultaneously prepared the next plate for loading, resulting in an extraordinary throughput of up to 50 plates an hour.

The Escher-Grad stand will also feature the very large format Cobalt-32 running live plate transport demonstrations as well as the extremely popular manual version Cobalt-4 and Cobalt-8 imaging engines. The semi-automated Cobalt-8, launched at last year’s Graph Expo, will be showcased running live via video. In addition, Escher-Grad will demonstrate its web-based control and remote diagnostic software which allows any Cobalt CTP system to be operated and remotely diagnosed via the internet, from any computer, anywhere around the world.

"Escher-Grad is no stranger to automation, having developed fully automated film and plate systems, both for our own product portfolio and on an OEM basis," said Najeeb Khalid, Chairman and CEO. "The issue of manual versus automated was looked at very seriously when we first released the Cobalt series and our decision to go with a manual approach for the smaller Cobalts was based on the fact that for the vast majority of mid to small size printers the costs of acquiring and maintaining CTP systems were too high and had minimal, if no, impact on human resources. We responded with the fastest and most reliable unit delivering the highest imaging quality at the lowest acquisition, installation and operating costs. Simply put, we are now able to make that same claim for the semi-automated and fully-automated versions of our popular Cobalt-4 and Cobalt-8 models, offering reduced manual plate handling to those printers whose operations now require it."

The Cobalt series of violet CTP systems are the culmination of over 16 years of research, design and manufacturing excellence. Designed to image both silver-based and photopolymer plates, Cobalt delivers the highest quality at the highest speed, without compromise. All Cobalt CTP systems will connect to any existing prepress workflow, preserving investment in software and manpower. Escher-Grad backs their reliability claims with ComfortZone3, the industry’s only full-line, 3-year part warranty, standard on the entire series of Cobalt CTP Systems.

Established in 1986, Montreal-based Escher-Grad Technologies Inc. designs, manufactures and markets advanced, high-resolution imaging systems delivering superior speed and quality at a revolutionary price point. A strong commitment to aggressive levels of R & D ensures the technological leadership position that results in superior imaging systems. In keeping with its mission to become the world's leading independent manufacture of violet CTP systems, Escher-Grad continues on a course of carefully planned growth. All products are backed by local, Escher-Grad certified, sales and support organizations present in more than 60 countries around the world.

For more information on the entire line of Cobalt Violet CTP Systems, please come to the Escher-Grad stand in Hall 9, Stand A40 or visit www.Escher-Grad.com.

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