(August 14, 2008) Screen's flagship PDF- and JDF-based prepress production workflow provides unique benefits for companies that employ on-demand printing devices in an offset-digital printing environment. With Trueflow SE, one workflow application manages production to multiple computer-to-plate (CTP) recorders, digital presses and proofing systems. This universal workflow solution generates the necessary data for printers to quickly use output devices on demand.

Trueflow SE utilizes the native PDF-rendering technology of the Adobe PDF Print Engine (APPE). It processes files but maintains them in a non-PostScript, device-independent state with full content integrity until the choice of output device is made. PDF files retain their device-independence across the workflow. Trueflow SE eliminates unnecessary data and file conversions that can interrupt the workflow, ensuring the integrity and consistency of file input and output throughout the production process.

Trueflow SE performs all of the common prepress functions, such as Preflight, OPI, automated trapping, RGB-CMYK conversion, and imposition specifically for CTP output.  Trueflow SE significantly improves production reliability and profitability by capitalizing on the strengths of PDF for content definition and the JDF standard for job ticketing and process control.

Key features of Trueflow SE:

" Automated production from page input to final output by a simple drag-and-drop action

" Late-stage editing

" Live transparency trapping

" Utilization of Adobe APPE core technology

One of the major functions is the ability to handle files with some form of transparency created with prepress software to produce drop shadows, Gaussian blurs, object outline glows or other effects. Trueflow SE traps and processes transparencies without flattening the files, which saves time and eliminates errors. Content creators also can be confident that complex design data intended to produce a particular desired effect will be printed faithful to the creative vision.

Another major function in Trueflow SE is the ability to make late-stage content corrections if necessary, without the time-consuming requirements of going back to native applications. Furthermore, if a decision is made late in the production cycle for output on a different printing system, Trueflow SE can instantaneously change the file's color management, trapping and imposition to match the specific output device.