Yes, some printers still use plates, particularly in offset printing, while others, like digital printers, do not.
Here's a breakdown:
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Offset Printing: This traditional method relies on plates, usually made of metal, to transfer an image onto a rubber "blanket," which then rolls the image onto paper. Each color in the print requires a separate plate. Offset printing is typically used for high-volume jobs where the cost per printed piece is lower.
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Digital Printing: Methods like inkjet and laser printing do not use plates. Inkjet printers spray ink directly onto the paper, while laser printers use toner that is fused to the paper using heat. Digital printing is well-suited for smaller print runs and variable data printing (where each print can be different).
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Examples:
- Offset: Printing newspapers, magazines, brochures in large quantities.
- Digital: Printing personalized marketing materials, short-run books, photos.
In short, whether printers use plates depends entirely on the printing technology employed. Offset presses use plates; digital printers do not.
