How
do I choose a duplication system?
What
is the difference between replication and duplication?
How
are the different print methods different?
Do the
printers print right on the CDs?
Do I
need a computer?
"How do I choose a duplication system?"
The right system is usually determined by the work flow you
envision the system being incorporated in, and by your needs in
terms of volume.
If you require a small quantity of discs
(less than 500 discs) yet want them looking as
professional and well presented as possible we suggest you
select the CD-R or "Disc on Demand" duplication method.
You can output one CD on your current system, and then use that CD as a master for duplication. We run automated stand-alone systems, or tower systems like the TC-8000 and Media Technics AS-4000.
We perform
the necessary media verification, create
label files for artwork, load your master CD, and are ready to burn copies.
We are then ready to print a label directly onto the CDs using one of
our photo quality rimage, inkjet or thermal CD-R printers.
"What is the difference between replication and
duplication?"
The term Replication refers to manufacturing CDs from the raw
elements. A CD is pressed using injection molding equipment. In
this process, a stamper is manufactured via glass mastering, and
this stamper serves as a master. The CDs are physical copies of
this stamper, so the information is physically embedded in the
plastic (polycarbonate) medium.
Duplication is the term for outputting Compact Discs using blank
media (CD-Rs) and implies a smaller order run size. CD-Rs are made with a layer of dye that allows
the recording of data onto the disc. Once completed, a CD-R will
perform exactly like a pressed CD in most playback systems.
For more technical background on CD and CD-R technology, visit www.Outboard.uk.com.
"How are the different print methods different?"
In the CD industry, the term "label" refers to the printed image
on a CD. There are basically five ways to print a CD label.
Silkscreen
Silkscreen printing is generally regarded as the highest quality
method of CD printing. Replicated CDs are printed on a
silkscreen printer, which can be set up for Spot (PMS) Colors,
Full Color (process), or Offset. All of these methods are
available from Outboard, and all except offset
are available on Outboard blank CD-Rs.
Thermal
Thermal printing offers a durable, professional label for a
minimal per-disc cost. Thermal printing is excellent for text
and line art or solid colors on silver discs, or white thermal
discs. While the resolution and color processing of thermal does
not allow for the same level of detail as other methods, it is
overall the cheapest method. Thermal printed discs require no
dry time, and the image will not smear or peel off.
Inkjet
Inkjet printing is a low cost way to achieve high resolution and
fairly accurate color processing, without a large set up
requirement. Inkjet printing requires the use of inkjet CD-R’s
(available through Outboard), and uses the same inkjet
technology common in most computer printers. CDs printed via the
inkjet process require time to dry after printing, and the printed image
can be smeared if the CD is somehow exposed to excessive
moisture. The use of an extra coating on the
inkjet media greatly reduces the smear potential, and
allows for nearly instant drying.
Rimage Everest
The newest in CD printing technology. The famed Rimage Prism
thermal printer is an industry leader, and is even incorporated
in many duplication systems not manufactured by Rimage. Now,
Rimage has raised the bar with their Everest line of CD
printers. Everest printers do not require specially prepared
media, and produce high resolution, full color CD labels with
unparalleled speed and accuracy. No dry time is required, and CD
labels produced by Everest printers are indelible.
Glossy magazine quality print on a CD!
Paper Labels
Software and label stock can easily be used
with the average home PC setup, and the Neato label kit includes
an application device to ensure that the labels are properly
paced on the CD and firmly affixed.
"Do Outboard print
right on the CDs?"
All of the printers Outboard use print directly onto the
CD.
For
more on types of printers and compatible media, see “How are
the different print methods different?”
Do I need a computer?
Ultimately, there will probably have to be a computer somewhere
in the work flow. However, not all duplication systems require a
connection to a PC to operate. Outboard has a wide array of
stand-alone duplicators, which can simply copy from a master CD.
Alternately, if you wish to duplicate CDs from files on your
computer hard drive, or even from files on a network, there are
solutions which connect to a PC and do not require a master CD
to copy from. Some of these systems are network compatible, for
the highest level of automated efficiency.