CHICAGO, IL – A.B.Dick Company will introduce the newest generation of its chemistry-free thermal metal platesetter, the Vector TX52, when DRUPA (Hall 3/Stand B52) reconvenes May 6-19 in Dusseldorf, Germany. The 2-up (52cm) CTP system opens the door for any small to medium size commercial printer doing short run, high quality work. Like no other product, the Vector TX52, taps new technology to deliver an incredibly low price point while drastically reducing production costs through the use of Freedom thermal chemistry-free metal plates. Designed, engineered and manufactured by A.B.Dick, the company is using breakthrough technology to achieve high output of 23 plates per hour at low production costs. Using the patented ThinDrum and the new SureFire laser technology from Presstek, the Vector TX52 offers superior quality and the consistency of internal drum technology. The ThinDrum design was implemented for the first time in May 2003 with the debut of the DPM34 SC/HSC digital platemakers, which are now the best selling platesetters in the industry. “This is truly the first fully integrated thermal metal CTP system of its kind that does not use chemistry,” said Stu Gallup, Director, Digital Systems for A.B.Dick. “Offering the printer this opportunity opens up a world of possibilities in their shop. With the chemistry-free Freedom plates, they will save time and money several ways. It gives them options to make it a faster, more productive digital operation with superior quality and consistency. Plus, it also makes for a safer and cleaner environment and one that will impact their business on a positive note.” The Vector TX52 also delivers a smaller footprint than its predecessor, with the plate washer built directly into the device rather than as two separate units. The Freedom plate is inserted at the front, imaged and water-washed inside the unit before being discharged as a completed plate. The Freedom thermal metal plate is designed for shorter run lengths up to 25,000 impressions, and is priced at near polyester prices. Like most new A.B.Dick equipment, the Vector TX52 is compatible with the company’s Momentum workflow. If a customer has a DPM product in the shop, they can use the same RIP and workflow modules such as IKE (Ink Key Estimator), which sets calibrated ink fountains.