Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 11-1. Modern photo-quality printers can produce beautiful images (© iStock by Getty Images)
Ink-jet printers are designed to use one of two types of ink: dye-based or pigment-based. Most models use
dye-based inks, but there are some high-end models geared toward the professional that use pigment-based
inks to produce archival-quality prints that are rated to last about 200 years when framed under glass and
displayed under normal lighting conditions. Even some models using dye-based inks (when combined with
the paper it's formulated for) will produce prints that are rated to last for about 75-100 years under the same
conditions.
Desktop photo-quality ink-jet printers are available in small models that print 4" × 6" images to
large-format models that produce prints up to 13" × 19". While general-purpose ink-jet printers use four ink
colors (CMYK), dedicated photo-quality printers use (depending on the manufacturer) colors such as red,
orange, green, and variations of black. This offers the widest color gamut possible. There are a variety of
photo-quality ink-jet papers available, such as gloss, semigloss, and matte (flat). Most photo-quality printers
are designed to use their own brand of inks and paper, for the best results and maximum life span.
One of the main disadvantages of ink-jet prints is that they are generally not very water-resistant, so they
must be kept dry. Even a single drop can ruin a print.
Dye-Sublimation Printers
Dye-sublimation (also known as dye-sub) printers have been around for a while and are commonly used
in digital photo labs. They work by using a thermal process to transfer dye contained on a ribbon to the
surface of the paper. Dye-sublimation printers produce very high-quality prints that are continuous in tone
and more water-resistant than ink-jet prints. One disadvantage of dye-sublimation printers is that they
are usually limited to glossy paper and only print up to 8" × 10" (with the exception of some wide-format
commercial models costing thousands of dollars). Another is that the paper and ink ribbons they require are
expensive, compared to their ink-jet counterparts.
Dye-sublimation printers have made their way into the consumer market in recent years and are well
worth looking at while conducting your research, if you are considering which type of printer to buy.
Either type will produce high-quality prints—which type to choose will depend on your particular needs
(and print longevity should be considered as well).
 
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