Great Combinations

Modular designs can provide countless combinations, but when it comes time to run the particular set up a printer has to be ready for the added complexity. "The more processes you try to combine, the more difficult it can get," says Short.

Servo technology goes a long way toward addressing the process integration issues that come with several in-line processes. "With a gearless/shaftless press and options that are servo driven, the integration of the processes becomes easier with less waste, since the registration is achieved electronically—not mechanically—between the different printing units," observes Leibin. This is especially important when competing in today's short run marketplace, he adds.