One of the most popular is the Kodak XLS 8600. It comes in a regular and Postscript model and uses a special Kodak Ektatherm Xtralife ribbon that contains a UV inhibitor. More information about this printer and media is available directly from Kodak XLS 8600
Other links: TektronixÆ, FargoÆ
The dye subs are continuous-tone, it's just that by their nature the dots are diffused as the dyes sublimate on the page. Hence their usual lack of sharpness.
Permanence?
Different dye subs have varying life, but most suffer from the same problems in varying degrees...
-temperature - the dyes evaporate-color shifts - the layers evaporate at different rates
-atmospherics - the dyes are sensitive to different chemicals, especially plasticizers such as PVC.
Most sye sub printers use a Mitsubishi engine combined with Dai Nippon Screen paper; and have similar life chacteristics. Notable exceptions are Sony and Kodak. The new Kodak Extra-Life, found on the XLS-8600, coats the prints and has a very long life.
There is clearly a difference between the Kodak dye subs and all the rest. I have heard that the output from the new Sony UPD-8800 has a nice lifespan, though.
Len Mizutowicz
justlen@interramp.com
National Computer Graphics Sales Manager
Fuji Electronic & Applied Imaging Division
Fuji Photo Film USA, Inc.
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