Optimal paper performance is key to producing a quality digital print job. And printers who use digital printers know this technology has somewhat different requirements from offset when it comes to desired paper properties. Here’s what to look for when buying paper for a digital press. By Frank Romano By 2006, more than 35,000 digital printers will be in place in the United States, ranging from 30 ppm laser printers to large 100 ppm and faster digital presses using sheetfed or web-fed laser imaging technology. Commercial printers purchase 70% of all digital printers sold in the U.S., and their rate of purchase is expected to accelerate this year, making 2004 a banner year for digital press acquisitions. Not surprisingly, mirroring the growth of digital (non-impact) presses is the growth of paper designed specifically for those presses. Digital printing grades are now offered by most paper producers, including Eastern Paper, International Paper, MeadWestvaco, Georgia-Pacific, Mohawk Paper Mills, Sappi, Smart Papers, Stora Enso, and Weyerhaeuser, with many featuring a wide range of grades. For obvious reasons, paper used in digital presses (including dry toner, inkjet and liquid toner devices) must be formulated in some way to hold an electronic charge. For inkjet and liquid toner digital presses, this is generally, but not always, accomplished through special coatings. A look at the basic technology of digital printers helps clarify the need for particular kinds of paper.