With the launch of the Advantage N Essentials, Agfa Graphics now offers a series of low-cost engines that take computer-to-plate (CtP) technology for newspapers prepress back to its essence. According to the degree of automation that printers need, they can choose between the semi-automatic Advantage N-eSA or the fully automated Advantage N-eTR.

Advantage N Essentials is built on the philosophy of Advantage N, yet is a more basic series of CtP engines for newspaper applications. As such, it completes the Advantage N platesetter family by offering newspaper printers a more affordable option. That does not mean, however, that the Essentials compromise on performance. Although the series takes a more basic approach to CtP, it still provides printers with the same user-friendliness, reliability, and high-end results that they have come to associate with Agfa Graphics.

Adaptable configurations
As is the case with Advantage N, the new Advantage N Essentials series supports several plate-loading mechanisms, various plate throughput speeds and different levels of autonomy. Furthermore, printers can choose several optional features – e.g. mirrored registration or a display – to adjust the CtP engine to their particular needs.

Degrees of automation
Advantage Essentials contain a new, vertical imaging head and come in two different throughput speeds (50 or 100 pph).
The Advantage N-eSA offers the most cost-effective solution whenever limited levels of automation suffice. Both plate loading and positioning are done manually, yet plate processing is an autonomous mechanism. The Advantage N-eTR, then, offers printers full automation. It automatically loads plates from an internal, transportable cassette that can hold up to 500 plates.