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1 Bit Tiff and Bit-Through

Although PDF is considered the standard...

We have adopted the 1 Bit Tiff format and established a workflow since the release of Drupa in 2000. At the time, PostScript (a file format consists of a language describing the layouts of images and texts), was commonly used in the printing industry. Later on PDF (Portable Document Format), the successor of PostScript, became the benchmark. ADOBE, PDF’s inventor, distributed the document viewer “Acrobat Reader” free of charge to everyone. Subsequently, RIP manufacturers also provided respective workflows.

Is it possible to produce the same printing result of PDF after a decade has passed ?

At first, in Japan, the 1 Bit Tiff format was a transitional format until the PDF workflow stabilized. Presently it is almost impossible to produce the same printing result after so many years have passed. The only possible way to achieve the same printing result is to have the same facility from ten years ago. However, since all the facilities have upgraded their software, it is not possible to achieve the same printing result as a decade ago. The only thing that has remain unchanged is the 1 Bit Tiff format.

The concept of a 1 Bit Tiff workflow

1 Bit Tiff format can be used to establish very strong and secure systems. It also provides tough time line, guarantees content for manufacturers and facilities, accommodates changes in operation without reverting to the start of the workflow. In addition, even if there are changes made on the facility or the DTP side, you do not need to make any extra investments if you use 1 Bit Tiff format for the plate making and machine plate data. Furthermore, you can reduce printing errors due to the difference in interpretation of the description language (eg. PDF and PS).

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