Drupa Preview, Buren, The Netherlands (February 20, 2004) – Creo Inc. introduces the new Magnus very large format (VLF) computer-to-plate (CTP) imaging device, the next generation of leading VLF solutions. The revolutionary Magnus VLF device delivers quality imaging with repeatability, reliability, improved functionality, and increased speed for large commercial and packaging printers. The Magnus VLF CTP is the fastest fully automated VLF device on the market —imaging 15 2,050 x 1,510 mm (80.7 x 59.4 in.) plates per hour at 2400 dpi. When smaller plates are loaded two at a time, the Magnus VLF device images 31 B1 (707 x 1,000 mm, 28 x 39.3 in.) plates per hour at 2400 dpi. This brand new design builds on the success of the market-leading Creo Trendsetter VLF imaging device, introduced in 1995. “Creo has developed this next generation VLF CTP to provide more functionality and increased speed for the larger commercial and packaging printer while maintaining the quality, consistency and reliability enjoyed by over 1,000 VLF customers today,” explains Colin Evans, VLF product manager, Creo. “We will also continue producing the Trendsetter VLF as this best-selling device satisfies the needs of many printers.” Fast, Quality Imaging The new Magnus VLF CTP device sports significantly faster performance. Productivity has been improved by using higher power heads, new electronics, and a loading architecture that reduces non-imaging time. The Magnus VLF allows portrait-plate and dual-plate loading, which allows two plates to be loaded side-by-side to further increase imaging speed. Enhanced Automation The Magnus VLF device also offers a continuous load option. This two-plate buffered system allows the operator to load one plate and queue the next plate on the load table. After exposure, the first plate is ejected to the processor and the queued plate is automatically loaded onto the drum. With multi-cassette automation, the Magnus VLF device operates with four cassettes of 75 plates per cassette. Slipsheet removal is automatic. Operators can reload cassettes while the device continues imaging and picking plates from another bay. Market's Largest Drum With its larger drum (1,600 x 2,108 mm, 63 x 83 in.) the Magnus VLF CTP device is capable of imaging plates for VLF presses, including the new KBA Rapida 205 press to be released at Drupa 2004. The appealing industrial design of the Magnus VLF includes a smaller footprint than the Trendsetter VLF. Plates can be rotated on the unload table allowing the narrow side of the plate to be presented to the processor with no additional footprint. The Magnus VLF is a complete CTP solution available today with industry-leading workflow solutions, including Prinergy and Brisque, and third-party workflow connectivity. A wide range of thermal media, including the Creo Positive Thermal Plate, has been qualified for use on the Magnus VLF CTP. Magnus VLF Availability The Magnus VLF CTP device is now available for order. The Magnus VLF device with the continuous load option and the fully automated Magnus with the multi-unit cassette will be the highlight attractions at Drupa on the Creo stand in Hall 4, Stand #B10.