April 19, 2017 by Leave a Comment

Announcing the ECRM Mako 36/46 Exchange Program

Due to overwhelming customer demand, DEI Systems is proud to announce their new ECRM Mako 36/46 Exchange Program.

Owner of DEI Systems Robert Yasi said about the program, “I listened to my customers and they all told me how badly they needed a solution to the problem of having an imagesetter, which can be a mission-critical component in a print shop, break down and have no way of knowing how long it’s going to take to get fixed and back up and running. When I offered several customers the option of exchanging their old imagesetters for a freshly refurbished one, they all jumped at it. That’s when I knew I had to make this a regular offering for DEI customers.”

The new exchange program offers you a viable solution when your ECRM imagesetter goes down. Instead of worrying about the old imagesetter, you can exchange it for a recently refurbished unit that is ready to produce.

Want to know more?

Head over to our ECRM Mako 36/46 Exchange Program information page for all the details or call us at (800) 793-3526. We’d be happy to answer any questions you have.

Filed Under: Imagesetter Tagged With: , ,
July 8, 2016 by Leave a Comment

What are the different types of imagesetting flim?

NOTE: Fuji Film will stop manufacturing imagesetting film in November of 2016, but DEI has you covered! We have a large selection and inventory of imagesetting film from Agfa and can meet even the highest quantity needs.

Have you been wondering why there are so many different types of imagesetting film? They have different purposes and uses. Here, we explain what it all means:

For the most part, the majority of imagesetters in use today have Visible Red Laser Diodes, sometimes referred to as RLD or VLD. So if you see either RLD or VLD it’s the same thing. Most RLD\VLD film is actually a Dual Spectrum film, meaning it also works in Helium Neon (or HN imagesetters), although it’s very rare to see any HN imagesetters in use today.

There are also some infrared imagesetters still being used, they are referred to as IR imagesetters and they, of course, use IR film.

There are also several different specs of imagesetting film for HN/RLD. The specs have to do with the windings, (emulsion in or emulsion out), and the core size of the roll (usually 1.995″ or 2.805″).

The next factor you have is the sensitivity of the film. Most users (over 80% of DEI Systems customers) are fine with a standard sensitivity imagesetting film which can usually provide a 3.5-4.5 density or DMax.

A standard imagesetting film will also usually have to be calibrated using the imagesetter’s RIP.

The highest quality film available is Hard Dot. Hard Dot film can give density (DMax) of over 5.0. Hard Dot film is also usually linear, meaning once you have your density set you may not have to calibrate as often and the screen values will fall into place, however you will pay a premium for a true hard dot film.

Another film type available in a dual spectrum HN/RLD spec is Matte film. Matte film is used in many screen printing and flexo applications and can be found in both .004 and .007 thickness, where standard and hard dot films are only available in .004 thickness.

Want to Know More About the Types of Imagesetting Film That are Best for You?

You can find some great information about imagesetting film, private label imagesetting film, the types of film, film guarantees, and what other printers are saying about our imagesetting film on the imagesetting film page of our website or you can view the other articles in the blog where there’s a wealth of information about film and what’s going on in the industry.

And as always, you are welcome to Email me or give me a Call at 864-269-9662.

Filed Under: Imagesetter Film Tagged With: , , ,
July 1, 2016 by Leave a Comment

How Can I Tell What Imagesetting Film I Use?

How do I know whose imagesetting film I use if it doesn’t say Agfa or Fuji on the label?

Agfa and Fuji Film are the two main film manufacturers in the world, but as we’ve mentioned in previous blogs, see “Fuji Going Out Of The Imagesetting Film Business – Is It True?” and “What’s Going On With Imagesetting Film?” Fuji Film will be permanently discontinuing imagesetting film in November 2016.

But most imagesetter users have been buying private label film that says neither Agfa or Fuji on the box or label for years.

Many private label films have creative names on the box or label like Monarch or Astro, while other private label film arrives at your door in an unmarked box with no logo and with no other markings other than the film size and specifications contained in the box. Which brings up the question: “So whose film is it exactly?”

Over the years I’ve been asked this question many times and there is an easy way to tell if your film is Agfa or Fuji:

Agfa is BLUE (or teal)

and

Fuji is GREEN

It’s as simple as that, Agfa = BLUE, Fuji = GREEN.

If you are currently using the soon to be discontinued GREEN film (Fuji), and want to try our BLUE film (Agfa) just give us a call 864-269-9662.

We even have 30′ sample rolls available in all widths, so you can try an inexpensive sample roll to test before buying a full roll from us.

We know that once you try our imagesetting film, you will not want to use anything else, it’s that good!

We even offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee so you know you will be satisfied, or your money back! But, just so you know, no one has ever returned a roll.

Still want to know more about our Private Label Imagesetting Film?

See What Our Private Label Film Customers Think

On the testimonials page you can see why so many printers choose DEI Systems for their prepress needs. Then you can scroll down to the “Supplies” section of testimonials page to see what our Private Label Imagesetting Film customers have to say about our film.

Get More Details About Our Film On the Imagesetting Film Page

Find out all the details of our private label film, why you should purchase, and our full guarantee.

Contact Us

If you’d like to talk, call me at 864-269-9662 or you can email me, Robert.

Filed Under: Imagesetter Film Tagged With:
June 23, 2016 by Leave a Comment

Fuji Going Out Of The Imagesetting Film Business – Is It True?

Last week I received an email from a large film user located in the Southwest United States. Below is a snippet of the email:

“I received a call from our Fuji representative saying they are going out of the film business come November. Have you heard anything about this?”

My answer was, “yes, I have indeed heard about Fuji Film discontinuing its manufacturing of imagesetting film over the past months.” You can see my last blog post entitled: “What’s Going On With Imagesetting Film?“ In the article, I answer the most common questions I am asked about imagesetting film. Namely, is it still available, and will we still sell it? As a matter of fact, we’ve known that Fuji Films was going to stop making it for a while. Fuji (the 2nd largest film manufacturer in the world) actually discontinued selling imagesetting film several months ago in Australia and New Zealand.

FUJI Imagesetting Film Discontinued

Believe it or not, the Fuji Imagesetting Film representatives in both Australia and New Zealand have been telling their customers to contact us (DEI Systems, Inc.) in the US for film orders for several months now. I don’t know why Fuji decided to discontinue the sales of imagesetting film in Australia and New Zealand first, but since August of 2015, we have been providing customers all across the South Pacific with imagesetting film.

As one of the larger private label imagesetting film suppliers in the United States, DEI Systems, Inc. continues to provide high quality film from the largest film manufacturer in the world, AGFA (who by the way has no intention of stopping the manufacturing of imagesetting film). Our imagesetting film is high quality and exceeds the equipment manufacturers most stringent recommendations. We’re so sure you’ll love our film, we guarantee it. If you are not 100% satisfied with your roll, you can return if for a full refund.

DEI Systems Imagesetting Film

  • Affordable Prices Due To The Volume We Ship
  • Premium Film
  • Hard Dot Film
  • Matte Film
  • Most Sizes Are Available For Immediate Delivery
  • Custom Windings And Sizes Are Manufactured And Shipped Quickly
  • 100% Money Back Satisfaction Guarantee

So, if you’re worried you won’t be able to get imagesetting film anymore, worry no more. We’re able to  provide customers as far away as New Zealand and Australia with imagesetting film, so we’re absolutely  certain we have high quality imagesetting film for anyone in the US and Canada that needs it too.

If you have questions, would like to see more about our imagesetting film or are ready to take us up on our film guarantee, call us today 864-269-9662 with any questions.

Filed Under: Imagesetting Film Tagged With: , ,
June 22, 2016 by Leave a Comment

What’s Going On With Imagesetting Film?

Have you noticed the lack of imagesetting film is in the news lately? Have you been asking yourself these questions?

  • Can I still buy imagesetting film?
  • Is imagesetting film being discontinued?
  • Who has imagesetting film?
  • Where can I buy it?

Maybe your supplier has told you they will no longer carry  film, or maybe you’ve heard the rumor that imagesetting film will be completely discontinued.

Don’t worry! You can breathe a sigh of relief because: imagesetting film is still around and will continue to be available for many years to come.

Why has film been in the news and who is discontinuing it?

The reason imagesetting film has been in the spotlight lately is due to a recent announcement by  FUJI FILMS stating they will no longer manufacture imagesetting film beginning November, 2016. The announcement caused quite a stir because suppliers of Fuji Film no longer have a product for their clients. That means every printer using Fuji film has to look for a new supplier or upgrade to CTP. However, DEI Systems has negotiated a special deal with AGFA Film and will continue to sell imagesetting film well into the future.

Can I still buy film and who has it?

YES. You can still buy imagesetting film! DEI Systems, Inc. has been selling both AGFA film and Fuji Film under our private label for several years.  We have an established relationship with Agfa to sell their film. You can see why people continue to choose and reorder film from DEI Systems over and over again here.

In fact, last year, DEI Systems, sold thousands of rolls of film, both Fuji and Agfa, and our film business continues to grow year after year. In 2015, DEI Systems sold several hundred more rolls of film than in 2014. We are currently on pace in 2016 to sell the most film in a year yet. And, we’ve added several new accounts in the past month alone! The reason: our film is fantastic quality, manufactured by AGFA and converted to any size and specification you need, yet is always at the best price.

If you are looking for a new supplier for your film, or would like to check out our affordable prices or simply have questions about film, DEI Systems, Inc. is a company you can trust for your film needs.

So, if you’re worried you won’t be able to get film anymore, and are worried that you may be forced to upgrade your equipment and process to CTP, worry no more, and let DEI Systems, Inc. take care of your film needs today!

Call 864-269-9662 with any questions.

Filed Under: Imagesetting Film Tagged With: ,
March 18, 2015 by Leave a Comment

Refurbished Computer to Plate Equipment is an Appealing Option

Refurbished CtP Equipment BannerRefurbished computer to plate equipment is an appealing option for many printers because it costs a lot less than new equipment and usually includes all the same functionality.

There are several factors printers should consider when buying refurbished computer to plate equipment based on their needs and the seller’s refurbishing process.

What Does Refurbished Mean?
It is important to understand what refurbished CtP equipment is. Refurbished CtP equipment should function as well as new equipment. The refurbishment process is intended to return a product to manufacturer’s standards, which includes: complete inspection, replacement of worn parts, recalibration, cosmetic maintenance, and confirmation that the equipment is in excellent working condition.

How Much Do I Want to Spend on This Device?
Determine your budget. If your company is looking for quality without the cost, refurbished equipment can be 30 to 70 percent less expensive than new devices.

What Do I Like?
You also must assess which equipment you are currently using. Consider which features you like on your present device and what technological innovations have been made since your equipment was manufactured. If the newest technology is similar to your current model, refurbished may be the best option so you can eliminate the learning curve on purchasing new equipment. You can replace non-working CtP equipment you currently use with the same unit that has been refurbished and is fully-functional.

What Warranty is Offered?
New CtP systems come with the Original Equipment Manufacturer’s (OEM) warranty, which covers software and hardware defects under normal condition of use. Many refurbished devices come with warranties, but these may be limited in time or coverage. Check to make sure the device is covered.

What are the Levels of Refurbishment?
Used CtP equipment can be reconditioned to different stages of refurbishment depending upon the needs of the customer:

  • Cosmetic Refurbished CtP Equipment is often nothing more than a used pieces of equipment that has been cleaned and tested to be in correct working order and nothing more has been done
  • Parts Refurbished CtP Equipment occurs when parts within the machine do not pass inspection for manufacturer’s specifications and need to be replaced. Those parts can either be from the OEM or removed from another used CtP system.
  • Fully Refurbished CtP Equipment is used CtP equipment that has been fully refurbished and restored to its original, like-new condition. In some cases, a refurbished unit may even receive enhancements that make it superior to the original unit. Full refurbishment usually requires both cosmetic improvements and major parts replacement.

Does It Still Have Support? 
We covered this in detail in part one, but just to reiterate it’s usually best to purchase Refurbished CtP equipment from someone who has the support of the OEM (see Part One)

What Else Am I Looking For?
Finally, prioritize your requirements for the device you are purchasing. Factor in how long you need the device to last. How frequently do you purchase equipment? You also want to be sure the company you are working with has a reputable refurbishing process. Are the service engineers certified and trained by the OEM? How long has the company been refurbishing CtP equipment? Do they refurbish in house or outsource?

By asking yourself these questions, you will be able to find the most appropriate refurbished system and save money for your company.

In part three we will detail DEI Systems refurbishing procedure for ECRM Mako CtP platesetters.

Related Articles
Part 1 of the Refurbished CtP Series – Not All Refurbished CtP Systems are Created Equal

Related Topics
Customers who have purchased refurbished equipment from DEI Systems
How we’re different

Filed Under: Computer to Plate, Refurbished Equipment Tagged With: , , ,
March 16, 2015 by Leave a Comment

Save Money with Our Chemfree CTP Violet Plates

Printing Industry Photo

If you are currently using a ctp violet plate that requires plate developer, replenisher and gum/finisher, it’s time you take a look at our Chemfree CTP Violet Plates. The cost of the chemfree violet plate is usually very competitive with even the cheapest violet plate that requires a plate developer, replenisher and gum/finisher. But where you’ll see a significant savings is in the chemistry.

Let’s say you are a small to medium size newspaper with an ECRM Mako CtP system and a Glunz & Jensen Raptor 68 plate processor. You use approximately a thousand 23 1/16″ x 35″ .008 violet plates per month that require developer, replenisher and gum. If you replace that plate with our chemfree plate and gum, you will totally eliminate the cost of developer and replenisher, and your yearly cost for gum will only be about $1,200. This is probably 1/3 of what you are paying yearly for developer, replenisher and gum/finisher.

We just recently did a cost analysis for a small newspaper using only 300 plates per month. In this instance our chemfree plate was actually about $0.15 more per plate or $540 more per year than what they are currently paying for plates. However, when we calculated what they are spending in plate chemistry, (developer, replenisher, finisher/gum) they are spending over $2,000 more per year than what they would be spending on our chemfree gum, remember our chemfree plate requires no developer or replenisher.

In addition to saving money on chemistry, customers have let us know about these advantages when replacing the development/replenisher with the VCF plate and Chemistry Free Gum. Below is a summary of the key benefits:

  • The VCF chemistry free plates can be use with existing violet CTP and processors systems. No hardware changes are required.
  • The CF Gum is much easier to work with by operators and much easier to clean up when a full change is required. Customers have indicated that they have saved approximately 50% time on clean up.
  •  A neutral (PH 7) gum normally does not have to be processed before disposing. Customers have been able to turn off their Metafix type devises saving both a step and additional chemistry for the unit to process developer before dumping.
  • The CF plate can use a Water Top-Up method to lower chemistry free gum costs and extend the life of the gum in the processor for the clean up phase.

In a summary, the VCF plates are easier to work with and remove many of the requirements on disposal of the higher PH developer chemistry.

Let us do a plate cost analysis for you to see how much money and time we can save you by switching to our chemfree violet plate. Call us for your cost analysis 864.269.9662

Filed Under: Violet Plate Tagged With: , , , ,
February 24, 2015 by Leave a Comment

Not All Refurbished CtP Systems are Created Equal

Refurbished CtP Equipment Banner

There are some things you should be aware of when considering purchasing refurbished CtP Systems.

Unfortunately, there is no official definition of the term ‘refurbished’, which means you have to do your due diligence. Indeed, expect to see variations on the term if you shop around. ‘Refurbished’, ‘remanufactured’, ‘reconditioned’… we’ve seen them all.

The first thing you should focus on is the actual company that is “refurbishing” your CtP system. Do they “refurbish” numerous platesetters from several different platesetter manufacturers? If they do, that may not necessarily be a positive, as we’ve all heard the term “jack of all trades, but master of none.”

When it comes to platesetters you are better off with a company that focuses on just one or two manufacturers, chances are they’ll have more expertise than a company that offers several different platesetters from several manufacturers.

Secondly, is the company “refurbishing” the platesetter endorsed by the manufacturer, it’s always best if the company doing the refurbishing actually has the support of the original manufacturer, that way they have someone they can go to should they run into an unusual problem with the equipment. This also gives them access to new parts should they need to replace something in the platesetter they are refurbishing.

The best way to find this out is to just ask the company, “do you have the support of the manufacturer and do you have access to new parts.” You can also ask them if they sell new equipment from that particular manufacturer. If they can’t sell you new equipment, chances are they don’t have the support of the manufacturer.

In our next article we’ll discuss the actual refurbishing of the equipment and what you should look for.

Related Videos

Related Articles
Part 2 of the Refurbished CtP Series – Refurbished Computer to Plate Equipment is an Appealing Option

Related Topics
Customers who have purchased refurbished equipment from DEI Systems
How we’re different

Filed Under: Computer to Plate, Refurbished Equipment Tagged With: , , , ,
July 7, 2014 by Leave a Comment

Important Upgrade Information for WindowsXP and SCSI Interface

On April 8, 2014 Microsoft discontinued WinXP support and is no longer writing security updates for Windows XP Operating System. If you have a Harlequin or other RIP, workflow server, or TIFF catcher operating on an XP computer you are at risk of a malware or virus attack that could halt production in your prepress department.

DEI Systems can help you by upgrading your RIP, workflow server, or Tiff Catcher to run on a Windows 7 platform.

CALL 800-793-3526 or EMAIL sales@deisys.com FOR DETAILS AND PRICING

ATTENTION: ECRM CTP and ECRM Imagesetter operators still using the outdated and antiquated SCSI Interface

If you are still using the outdated and antiquated SCSI interface to drive your ECRM CTP system or ECRM imagesetter we can upgrade all ECRM CTP systems and most ECRM imagesetters from the outdated and antiquated SCSI interface to the faster and better USB interface.

CALL 800-793-3526 or EMAIL sales@deisys.com FOR DETAILS AND PRICING

Filed Under: Technical Support Tagged With: ,
November 25, 2013 by Leave a Comment

Imagesetter Service and Repair – Ship to Us

If you have an ECRM tabletop imagesetter, (i.e. Mako 36/46/56 or VRL 36/46), are in a remote area and need service, we can save you quite a bit of money. Why not put your imagesetter on a pallet and ship it to us. We have had many customers over the years send us their equipment for repair. The nice thing about the ECRM tabletop imagesetter is that they are very inexpensive to ship, and in most cases the shipping costs will be far less than the travel charges you would pay a service engineer, especially if he has to travel 3 or 4 hours to get to your location. So remember to call us the next time you need service on your tabletop imagesetter.

Filed Under: Imagesetter, Imagesetter Service Tagged With: ,
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