What is thermal printing?

CD and DVD media can be printed on directly using a variety of different methods. Thermal printing is one of these methods. The thermal print process involves using a special ribbon that, when heated, will transfer an image to the CD or DVD surface. Diversified Systems uses the Rimage Prism+ for our one-color in-house printing services and the Rimage Everest Printer for our in-house full-color thermal printing. One color printing is available in black, blue, and red.

When should I use thermal printing for CD or DVD labeling?

Thermal printing is a great, economical option for short runs. If the graphics to be printed are one-color and not very complex, a thermal print on the Rimage Prism+ Printer can be more cost-effective then silk screen printing. Likewise, a short run job that involves full color will be more economical if run on a printer, such as the Rimage Everest, as opposed to silk screen, which requires multiple films and screens to run the job.

How should I prepare my artwork for thermal printing?

Prepare artwork in the same way you would for other projects. Provide your artwork on disc or via e-mail to Diversified Systems. You may provide your artwork in most graphic extensions, including .eps, .bmp, and .tiff formats. If you wish to print text only, please use Microsoft Word. We will provide you with a proof of your artwork to approve prior to thermal printing.

Can I thermal print on silk-screened media?

Yes, however you need to have a smooth surface in order to thermal print. Your silk-screened disc will need to have an area that will allow for thermal printing. Thermal printing of text is a very common use for this scenario. When version numbers change, title numbers change, or multiple discs are required, thermal printing in conjunction with pre silk-screened media is the economical and professional way to go.

Can Diversified Systems provide silk-screened CD or DVD media with the Rimage tick?

Yes. Many customers use the Rimage tick on their silk-screened media to allow exact placement of the thermal printed information. Rimage makes a special printer that will look for the tick prior to printing and positions the thermal print head precisely in the same location for each disc printed. Just place the tick in the appropriate place in your artwork; we’ll provide you samples to make sure the tick mark provides the desired results.