There is a considerable difference in the plate and imaging system choice of computer-to-plate installations world-wide. In the U.S., the choice is overwhelmingly for thermal imaging, while European and other markets choose more visible light imaging. Also, blue/violet light, UV, and even ink jet systems are in various stages of development, some of which are expected to be commercially available within 2000.

Visible light plates are most often used in high volume and lower quality applications such as newspapers. 

Thermally imaged plates are commonly used in high quality commercial printing. Impression life runs from 100,000 without baking up to three million with pre and/or post-baking. Conventional wet fountain and waterless ink versions are available. Some thermally imaged plates offer special coatings with unique grain structure which allow them to carry less ink and water to the substrate, producing better color consistency and less ink emulsion. Some plates also allow more dilute fountain solution, thus reducing chemical use and waste. Thermal ablative technology allows for chemical-free plate processing. 

Author: Johann Whichter
Source: Graphic Arts Monthly, December, 1999, p. 61-67.