May 20, 2004 -- ECRM Imaging Systems has introduced the MAKO 8 CTP system to offer the advantages of MAKO imaging technology to larger commercial printers. Launched at drupa 2004, the MAKO 8 CTP device is the most cost-effective, 8-page product on the market. Combining violet imaging with a straight-through plate path, the MAKO 8 is a simple-to-use CTP system, with a proven pedigree and low cost. Peter Wilkens, VP Worldwide Marketing at ECRM, comments, “The MAKO 8 breaks the price barrier for 8-up CTP, delivering high image quality and press format flexibility at the lowest possible cost of operation.” With a maximum plate size of 45” x 32.4” (1143 mm x 824 mm), the new MAKO 8 expands the MAKO CTP range to cover all formats from 2, 4 and 6 pages, up to 8-page signatures, with all printer’s marks and color bars included. The MAKO 8 eliminates the time delays and design complexities associated with loading and unloading large plates. Using a straight-through plate path, MAKO 8 plate handling delivers fast throughput and easy operation, imaging up to 15 B1 (8-page) plates per hour. Peter continues, “CTP is now the established production method for many medium and large printers. Our objective is to make it an affordable technology for all printers, even those who only make a few plates per week. The MAKO 8 is a fantastic option for printers looking to add another CTP device or replace aging imagesetters.” The integrated register system uses the same registration notches as the press. This ensures optimum imaging-to-plate-to-press registration, delivering fast makeready during press start up. To accommodate the widest range of presses, the MAKO 8 integrated register system can be changed in a few seconds, allowing maximum flexibility in job scheduling. Based on proved MAKO imaging technology, the MAKO 8 uses unique lens technology that provides optimum format flexibility, while maintaining absolute accuracy and consistency. “This product will revolutionize the 8-page market,” said Wilkens. “This is the first time that CTP will be truly affordable to printers who print everything from duplicator to 8-page formats.”