TPL has committed to switching the majority of the magazines it produces to CTP after successful trials with its new PDF-based workflow.


This weeks issue of Revolution was the first magazine to be produced using a new version of PDF developed for the magazine market in the UK and the first time the title has gone CTP.


The PDF RS files were used to send the final 16pp section of the magazine from repro house Icon Reproduction to TPL.


Until now CTP has made up 10% of TPLs work, but were in transition, with the aim to go 80% CTP, said TPL digital workflow consultant Brian Clegg.


The firm will install its second CreoScitex Trendsetter VLF early in the new year (PrintWeek, 26 May).


TPL will be switching most of its work to CTP produced using PDF RS. By the end of January, Haymarket titles Revolution and Internet Business and Reed title Commercial Motor will be produced this way.


PDF RS is a version of PDF that supplies single pages as ripped and screened combined separations. It is able to mix copydot with digital on the same page and works with any PostScript level 3 RIP.


It meets PPA demands for the digital equivalent to right-reading emulsion-down film, said Clegg.


Clegg has developed JumpGate, an application to create PDF RS, which will be sold by his company Catalyst.


Two repro houses have bought JumpGate: Icon Reproduction is already using the system, and JJ Typographics in Southend will install it this month.


By the end of April all our magazines handled by JJs about 20 will be PDF RS, said Reed production manager Eric Lambert. It includes titles printed by TPL, ET Heron and Manson Press.


Story by Barney Cox