For home or professional photo prints, most are familiar with the processes of inkjet and laser printers. But perhaps you are not so familiar with one of the latest technologies on the scene, known as dye-sublimation.
Unlike inkjet and laser printers, a dye-sublimation printer uses heat to activate the transfer of dyes onto the page. 4 “panels” contain the dyes used to transfer. Each is the same size as that of the medium being printed on. The color selection is cyan, magenta, yellow, and a special overcoating which acts in place of black. This overcoating also adds a layer of protection to the medium so that it is water resistant as well as resistant to UV light.
Probably the most unique and interesting aspect of the dye-sublimation printing cycle is that rapid changes in the heat expelled from the printing head produces the color changes present in the image being produced. The rollers move the page as heat diffuses the dye and it becomes solid ink immediately thereafter. After this is done with all four “panels”, the image is ready.
Some negatives of using dye-sublimation printing is the fact that printing is limited to the special paper exclusive to them. Also, sizes are fixed to that of the printer. Images produced through these types of printers are suitable for photo printing, but for graphic design elements and similar object printing, the prints can be inferior to that of today’s more advanced inkjet printers.
Pricing for dye-sublimation printers varies, though you can typically find models from top manufacturers in the $100 and up range. This is very competitive with inkjet as well as some laser printers.