Laurie Mullaney Associates has launched a new version of its Acme digital plate reader that uploads a video image of the dots to a PC.


Video Acme was developed following demands from users of stochastic screening for a tool that could display the screen as well as measuring it.


The new model costs 1,000, the standard model costs 750.


"The Video Acme caught me by surprise with its success," said managing director Laurie Mullaney. "With stochastic screens densitometers cant read the dots on film never mind on plate. Its a big problem, but you can do it with Acme."


One of the biggest outlets for the Video Acme has been via Presstek, which is selling it to users of its Anthem processless plate.


In the months since the Video Acmes launch it has sold 60 units. Total sales for all Acmes are 1,400.


Later this year the firm will launch a new version using USB to connect to a computer. It is also developing a flexo version based on a new method of measuring the dots, which it is patenting.


Story by Barney Cox