HUDSON, N.H., July 12 -- Presstek, Inc., a leading manufacturer and marketer of environmentally responsible high tech digital imaging solutions for the graphic arts and laser imaging markets, announced today that the Vector TX52 thermal platesetter is now commercially available worldwide from its newest business units, ABDick, its authorized dealer network, and Presstek Europe. The Vector TX52, a 2-up (52 cm) chemistry-free metal CTP solution, combines Presstek's industry leading chemistry-free thermal plate and laser imaging technology with its innovative internal Thin Drum technology producing the most affordable metal-based, compact platesetter in the market today. The first commercial product to capitalize on the strengths of the new Presstek organization, the Vector TX52 leverages: * Presstek's leading digital technology and system design expertise; * Precision Lithograining's unique chemistry-free plate products; * Lasertel's semiconductor laser imaging diodes; and * ABDick's well-respected sales and service. "We are excited to be introducing this breakthrough product to the market," said Presstek CEO and President Edward J. Marino. "The Vector TX52's introduction is a tangible example of the vision behind the acquisitions we made in 2004. The direct result of Presstek's dedication to delivering on its heritage of innovation and environmental responsibility to the market, the Vector TX52 now puts chemistry-free metal CTP within the reach of any printing establishment, regardless of size. It is the first of many next-generation products we expect to bring to market as a result of Presstek's newly expanded capabilities and economies of scale." The Presstek Vector TX52 thermal platesetter and Freedom chemistry-free plates provide the short-run, small format (52cm and under) printer with a unique metal platemaking solution for higher productivity, cleaner operation and lower materials and production costs. Able to output up to 20 plates per hour, the Vector TX52 thermal platesetter with Freedom chemistry-free plates features a small footprint, with the plate washer built directly into the device rather than requiring two separate units. The Freedom plate is inserted at the front, imaged and water-rinsed inside the unit before being discharged as a finished, press-ready plate. The Freedom thermal metal plate is designed for run lengths up to 25,000 impressions, and is priced competitively with polyester plates. With its self-contained water wash and no need for a processor, the Vector TX52 has an exceptionally small footprint, allowing it to fit comfortably in any size shop. It also eliminates the image variability that can be associated with chemical processing of plates, as well as the need to purchase, manage, maintain and dispose of chemicals traditionally used in the imaging of metal printing plates. The Presstek Vector TX52 thermal platesetter and Freedom chemistry-free plates provide the short-run, small format printer with a unique metal platemaking solution for higher productivity, cleaner operation and lower materials and production costs. Presstek will demonstrate the Vector TX52 along with other industry leading chemistry-free CTP and DI press solutions at Print '05 in booth # 6112.