3M Provides a Way to Double Backlit Ink Densities Without Reducing Image Quality

10/24/2007

When it comes to producing vivid backlit digital signage‚ two strikes are better than one. The challenge‚ however‚ is maintaining sharpness and color consistency because the additional ink deposited in the second pass may degrade color quality and detail.

Ink coverage for a graphic is determined by whether the substrate will be used for a banner or backlit graphic. Backlit images require the greater density that is achieved by using a printer’s double strike input mode. But‚ when using this mode‚ the maximum recommended total ink coverage may be exceeded leading to a loss of image sharpness and color consistency. It is also possible that the graphic will be difficult to dry after printing.

3M Graphics Market Center has an answer. These quality concerns may be alleviated if a backlit image is printed in single-strikes directly on the first and second surfaces.

The 3M™ Panagraphics™ III Wide-Width Flexible Substrate may be imaged on both its first and second surfaces. Its coated smooth second surface readily accepts ink for a second mirror-image print‚ allowing for a sharper‚ brighter and more color consistent backlit graphic‚ while maintaining a crisp vibrant first surface when viewed under reflected light. The second surface image‚ of course‚ must be reversed and registered to the first surface print. 3M recommends consulting with the printer manufacturer for process guidance.

Some printers may permit automatic double-side printing. Again‚ 3M suggests that the printer’s specifications be checked to see if it has that capability.

When constructed and used as described in the substrate’s Product Bulletin P3‚ these types of graphics may be warranted by the 3M™ MCS™ Warranty.

For more information about the 3M™ Panagraphics™ III Wide-Width Flexible Substrate‚ call 1-800-328-3908 or check on line at www.3Mgraphics.com.

About 3M Graphics Market Center
3M Graphics Market Center helps customers worldwide build brands by providing total large-format graphics solutions. 3M manufactures or certifies graphic films and graphic protection‚ flexible substrates‚ inks and toners‚ as well as software and hardware used to create large-format finished graphics that are consistent‚ reliable and durable. For more information call 1-800-328-3908‚ or go to www.3Mgraphics.com.

About 3M — A Global‚ Diversified Technology Company
Every day‚ 3M people find new ways to make amazing things happen. Wherever they are‚ whatever they do‚ the company’s customers know they can rely on 3M to help make their lives better. 3M’s brands include Scotch‚ Post-it‚ Scotchgard‚ Thinsulate‚ Scotch-Brite‚ Filtrete‚ Command and Vikuiti. Serving customers in more than 200 countries around the world‚ the people of 3M use their expertise‚ technologies and global strength to lead in major markets including consumer and office; display and graphics; electronics and telecommunications; safety, security and protection services; health care; industrial and transportation. For more information‚ including the latest product and technology news‚ visit www.3M.com.

Scotch‚ Post-it‚ Scotchgard‚ Thinsulate‚ Scotch-Brite‚ Filtrete‚ Command and Vikuiti are trademarks of 3M.

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