Producing the Image

Digital Images can be produced from a wide range of output devices, using various technologies. Liquid ink-jet, electrostatic, solid ink-jet, thermal-transfer and photographic devices are the primary technologies used today.

Here's a brief introduction to several of the technologies:

Ink-jet

Inkjet heads produce an image

Piezo - ink is released by applying pressure, to the nozzle chamber, forcing a drop of ink onto the media (print surface) as needed to create the image.

Continuous- ink is continuously under pressure forming a stream of droplets. The droplets required to form the image are channeled to the media, while the unused droplets are recycled.

Thermal- a gas bubble is created in the nozzle chamber with a heating element, creating pressure to force a droplet of ink onto the media.

Solid - ink is stored in a solid format, melted as needed and applied to media using methods similar to liquid ink-jet.

Thermal Wax/Resin Transfer

Wax or resin is applied to a film carrier, usually in a roll format. The wax or resin is transferred to the media using heat. Each color must be transferred individually.

Dye Sublimation

Similar to thermal transfer, sublimation dyes are transferred from a carrier roll and applied through the use of heat. When a controlled amount of heat is applied, the dye is vaporized and transferred to the media.

Electrostatic

Special media is imaged with an electronic charge that attracts toner particles. Typical electrostatic printers image each color individually.

Spray Jet

Individual ink colors are applied directly to the media through a spray nozzle.

Digital images can be applied to paper, vinyl, fabric, plastics and many other materials. Depending on your specific requirements, your service provider can help you select the best output device.

Finishing

Lamination is often used to "finish" digital prints

Using special media, inks and/or laminates, images can be produced which withstand sunlight and most weather conditions. Also, adhesives are available which provide the opportunity to apply digital images to various surfaces. You'll find digital images on buses, planes, buildings, ceramic tiles, and textiles... just about any surface imaginable.

Digital Imaging is changing the way we manage graphics... learn more about the many advantages offered through this creative and cost-efficient technology.