The first step in the screen printing process is the preparation of artwork. Clients may provide artwork in virtually any digital platform available. Vector based artwork is preferred in order to obtain the highest quality and resolution. Artwork specifications and templates are available on the Diversified Systems website. All artwork is proofed with the client before printing can commence.

Once artwork proofing is complete, film is generated. Each color to be printed requires a separate piece of film. Film is generally output at 100 lpi using an elliptical dot for spot color printing and 150 - 200 lpi for CMYK (full color) printing. When Diversified produces film we employ several dot loss compensation techniques to enhance the final print, as well as taking into account all necessary trapping.

The screen development process begins once film has been received. A separate screen is required for each color to be printed. Film is applied to each screen, and the screens are properly exposed and developed. Emulsion in the exposed area is washed out of the screen, the screen is dried, and the image is now ready for printing.

Once all screens have been produced, a job is ready for final printing. Each screen is mounted on the press, inks are mixed and placed in the appropriate screens, squeegee angles and printing pressures are determined. The operator proceeds to align each of the print heads until registration is locked in. Sample prints are continually produced until the desired first article is achieved. Once the first article is approved, the machine is loaded with the appropriate media, and the printing process begins. Product is quality checked throughout and printed rejects are culled from the run. The finished discs are then packaged and made ready for shipment.