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Print 101: Electrophotography

Print 101: Electrophotography

Print 101: Electrophotography (EP) – Episode Summary

In this deep-dive episode of The Print University, Ryan McAbee and Pat McGrew demystify electrophotography (EP), also known as laser or toner-based printing. A cornerstone of digital printing press training and printing technician certification online, EP has evolved from humble black-and-white beginnings to high-speed, color-rich output with neon, white, and metallic options.

The duo breaks down the EP printing process—from imaging the drum using raster data at the digital front end, to applying charged toner particles, fusing them with heat, and finishing inline. EP’s standout advantage? 100% variable data printing, enabling personalized documents, short-run packaging, and boutique label production. That’s why it powers much of today’s transactional printing, web-to-print jobs, and personalized marketing—a key concept for anyone exploring MIS software training for print production or outsourced training for print production staff.

They also discuss equipment configurations (cut-sheet vs. roll-fed), media compatibility, substrate innovations like Teslin® and synthetics, and the growing design possibilities unlocked by additional color stations. EP offers remarkable print quality, with ultra-sharp microtext and vibrant color due to toner sitting atop the substrate rather than soaking in—making it ideal for color management training for new hires.

You Will Learn:

  • The mechanics of electrophotographic (toner-based) printing

  • Equipment types, color stations, and inline finishing capabilities

  • Use cases like transactional print, book production, and short-run packaging

  • How EP supports variable data and embellishments (e.g. white, neon, metallic toner)

  • Real-world applications and cost considerations (click charges, substrate selection)

Who This Course Is For:

Print technicians, prepress operators, digital press operators, label and packaging printers, and professionals involved in printing industry training programs for new employees

Time to Watch:

Approx. 16 minutes