HUDSON, N.H., April 27 -- Presstek, Inc., a leading manufacturer and marketer of environmentally responsible high tech digital imaging solutions for the graphic arts and laser imaging markets, today debuted its patented SureFire laser imaging system: the industry's first quality low cost solution designed to image chemistry-free thermal plates for small format presses. The first CTP system to utilize SureFire laser imaging will be shown by a major graphic arts manufacturer at drupa 2004, the world's largest printing trade fair, taking place in Dusseldorf, Germany, May 6th through 19th. More details will be available following the formal announcement of that product. New Design Allows Low Cost Chemistry-Free Thermal Imaging Presstek's new innovative SureFire laser imaging is designed to break down the cost barriers of thermal CTP for the small format press market. Until now, this market has been primarily served by chemistry intensive, visible light and polyester plate CTP systems. Presstek's SureFire is designed to change this model by providing an affordable, high-energy thermal laser system in a small package, and to open a new and significant market space for process-free and chemistry-free thermal plates. Edward J. Marino, Presstek's President and CEO, says "SureFire expands Presstek's portfolio of imaging products and is engineered to bring affordable chemistry-free CTP systems to the market for small format press users. Market input has shown that the price, quality and process benefits of this new system will be highly attractive to smaller commercial printers and in-plant production shops." Marino adds, "Our customers are asking for solutions that are more affordable, provide better quality without additional processes, and are environmentally sound. I believe SureFire based systems will meet this requirement. Presstek is committed to working with partners to deliver the benefits of low cost chemistry-free operation to all users." System Approach Delivers Optimized Performance and Efficiency Presstek has a long history of bringing innovative and environmentally responsible technology to the graphic arts marketplace, including the Direct Imaging (DI) press and the chemistry-free imaging for both on and off press applications. The company has unique optical and laser expertise through its Lasertel subsidiary and is the only graphic arts vendor that designs and manufactures its own laser imaging systems. Additionally, Presstek designs and manufactures plates for imaging by its laser systems-allowing for a systems approach that delivers optimized performance and efficiency. The SureFire laser subsystem will be shown by Presstek (Stand 9B56), and as a component in a CTP system to be announced by a major graphic arts manufacturer at drupa.