Screen printing and screen making have evolved significantly over the years, with advancements in technology that improve efficiency, accuracy, and print quality which enables faster production, reduces costs, and ensures more consistent results for screen printing businesses of all sizes. Among the most notable innovations are advanced screen imaging technologies, known as Computer-To-Screen (CTS), Direct-To-Screen (DTS) and Laser-To-Screen (LTS) systems.

By understanding the differences between CTS, DTS, and LTS, screen printers can make informed decisions about which technology best suits their needs. In this blog post we clarify what each one means, highlight their differences, and explain why Laser-To-Screen is considered the pinnacle of screen imaging technology.

What Are CTS and DTS for Screen Printing?

Computer-To-Screen (CTS) and Direct-To-Screen (DTS) are interchangeable terms describing the same type of screen imaging process. These terms are often used synonymously because they both refer to digital methods of imaging directly onto screens coated with emulsion, bypassing traditional film-based workflows. Unlike traditional methods that require printing transparency films with an inkjet printer, CTS/DTS systems streamline workflows by digitally imaging directly onto emulsion-coated screens. This eliminates the need for physical film, reduces costs, and results in better print quality when compared to traditional inkjet printed films.

The CTS/DTS process generally involves two steps:

1. Image Application: Ink or wax is digitally applied to the emulsion-coated screen to create the stencil.
2. Exposure: The stencil is then exposed to UV light, curing the emulsion and finalizing the screen for printing.

While this method represents a significant improvement over older techniques, it still involves consumables such as ink or wax and additional maintenance related to printhead performance.

What Is Laser-To-Screen (LTS)?

Laser-To-Screen (LTS) auto exposure units are the next-generation of imaging technology, building upon the foundation of CTS and DTS. By using precision lasers, LTS eliminates the need for ink or wax entirely. The image is exposed directly onto the coated screen in a single, seamless step, removing the need for a separate exposure process. LTS represents a logical progression in imaging technology by addressing the limitations of traditional methods, such as reliance on consumables and multi-step processes, while enhancing efficiency and image quality.

Key advantages of LTS include:

• Faster Setup: The one-step process significantly reduces production time compared to CTS/DTS systems.
• Reduced Maintenance: By eliminating printheads, ink, and wax, LTS minimizes common maintenance issues like clogging and waste.
• Superior Image Quality: Laser imaging provides unmatched sharpness and accuracy, ensuring consistent, high-quality results.
• Cost Savings: Without consumables, shops save on ink, wax, and related materials.

Why Choose Laser-To-Screen Over CTS/DTS?

The transition from traditional CTS/DTS systems to LTS technology is driven by the tangible benefits it offers to screen printing shops. Here’s why many professionals consider LTS the superior choice:

1. Time Savings: Traditional CTS/DTS workflows require transferring screens between an imaging station and an exposure unit, which adds time to the process. LTS completes both steps simultaneously, cutting setup times dramatically. For example, a comparison study showed that while CTS/DTS systems might take 10 minutes to process two screens, LTS achieves the same result in just four minutes.
2. Elimination of Consumables: CTS/DTS systems rely on ink or wax, which not only incur costs but also require frequent maintenance to address issues like clogged printheads and wasted materials. With LTS, these consumables are eliminated entirely, reducing operational expenses and downtime. One customer reported saving approximately $155,000 annually by switching to LTS.
3. Enhanced Image Quality: LTS technology delivers unparalleled image sharpness by eliminating issues such as ink splatter, streaking, and inconsistent gradients. This improvement is particularly valuable for high-resolution designs and intricate details.
4. Streamlined Setup and Support: Many LTS systems, such as the LTS 8012 Auto Exposure Unit, come with comprehensive vendor support, including setup assistance and training. Shops can go from unboxing to production in as little as three days, boosting confidence in new equipment investments.
5. Superior Registration: Registration refers to the alignment of the image on the screen with the printing press, which is critical for multi-color designs and precise reproductions. LTS systems offer unmatched registration accuracy due to the precision of laser imaging. Unlike traditional CTS/DTS methods that rely on ink or wax, which can introduce slight variances, LTS ensures consistent alignment by directly imaging onto the screen with lasers. This level of accuracy minimizes setup adjustments and reduces errors during printing, making it ideal for high-detail and multi-color projects.

In the video below, LTS ROI vs CTS i-Image, Kyle with Powertex talks about what Return On Investment (ROI) factors affected his decision to upgrade from their i-Image CTS machine to the LTS 8012 Auto Exposure Unit.

ROI Considerations for LTS & The Future of Screen Printing

For screen printing businesses evaluating their return on investment (ROI), LTS presents a compelling case. Whether you run a small operation or a high-volume production shop, LTS offers tailored advantages. Smaller businesses benefit from reduced maintenance and consumable costs, while larger shops see significant time savings and throughput improvements, making it a versatile solution for various scales of production.

Beyond cost savings on consumables and reduced maintenance, the technology’s efficiency translates into higher throughput and faster turnaround times—key factors in competitive markets. Additionally, the long-term reliability of laser systems ensures consistent performance, further solidifying their value.

Contact Chromaline Screen Print Products

As the industry continues to prioritize speed, quality, and cost efficiency, technologies like Laser-To-Screen are setting new standards. While CTS/DTS systems have their place, particularly for smaller-scale operations, LTS is increasingly the go-to solution for businesses seeking to optimize their workflows and achieve superior results. If you’re ready to elevate your screen printing capabilities, consider upgrading to an LTS system. Contact us to learn more about how our Laser-To-Screen technology can transform your production process.