Abstract: A printable substrate transfer device for a printing machine which includes a platen that has openings therein in fluid communication with a vacuum source. A transport belt is movable over the platen in a process direction. The transport belt allows air to pass there through. A hold down plate is disposed above the transport belt. A stationary porous vacuum substrate is disposed between the hold down plate and the transport belt. The vacuum substrate and transport belt form a path there between through which a printable substrate travels. The hold down plate exerts a force toward the transport belt upon operation of vacuum passing through the platen. The vacuum substrate limits the negative pressure between the hold down plate and the transport belt, such that a force exerted by the hold down plate onto the substrate is limited.