HUDSON, N.H., April 22 -- Presstek, Inc., a leading manufacturer and marketer of environmentally responsible high tech digital imaging solutions for the graphic arts and laser imaging markets, today announced its next generation computer-to-plate (CTP) platform, Dimension Excel. Incorporating Presstek's new ProFire Excel thermal imaging technology, Dimension Excel offers improved productivity, flexibility and automation. Dimension Excel will debut at the upcoming drupa 2004 exposition, May 6th - 19th in Dusseldorf, Germany. Dimension Excel is the natural extension of Presstek's award-winning series of thermal CTP platesetters. New capabilities for Dimension Excel include higher throughput -- up to 20 plates per hour -- as well as more flexible plate handling options. Units can be configured for standard semi- automatic plate loading or with a load ahead / rear exit option for high productivity with minimal operator intervention. Additionally, the new loading design can be upgraded to a fully automated configuration upon release of an optional cassette loader scheduled for later this year. The new Dimension Excel is made possible by Presstek's ProFire Excel imaging solution, a breakthrough achievement announced earlier this year. ProFire Excel features a 16-micron spot size, 300 LPI resolution and supports several popular stochastic screening options. Dimension Excel retains the small footprint and ease of integration, which has made the original Dimension platform a popular choice for smaller print shops. Dimension Excel is fully compatible with Presstek's Anthem chemistry- free and Applause process-free thermal plates. "We're excited to add these new capabilities and enhanced performance to the Dimension platform. The new imaging and productivity enhancements make Dimension an attractive solution for an even broader range of print producers," said David Ventola, Presstek's General Manager for Off-Press Systems. "Its flexible configuration makes Dimension Excel a fit for small shops as well as busy shops that require higher plate production throughput." Presstek, long committed to the development of environmentally responsible solutions for graphic arts imaging, was first to market with a process-free plate, making Applause commercially available in October 2003. John O'Rourke Marketing Director for Off-Press Systems added, "The 35th anniversary of Earth Day is an appropriate date to announce yet another generation of environmentally friendly imaging solutions. Presstek pioneered process-free imaging in the graphic arts, and we're pleased that the new Dimension Excel platform will allow us to bring this efficient, economical and environmentally responsible solution to an even broader market." Dimension Excel will be demonstrated by Presstek (Stand 9B56), Sakurai (3A72) and EFI (4A33) during drupa 2004.