Pre-press point of view: detailed explanation of raster image processor (RIP)

The batch output method is to print all the files to be output into PS files, and put them in the same folder, which will be automatically output by RIP. This method is more suitable for the job when the same processing conditions, but this method can not preview the output, so make sure there is no problem in the layout.

In the domestic color desktop publishing system, imported RIP still accounts for the majority, and many RIPs are bundled with imagesetters. For example, Agfa's photo machine is matched with Agfa's Viper software RIP or Star 800 hardware RIP. The company's RIP 50, hardware RIP or even the rehearsal of Liner Haier (now Heidelberg). Soft and hard hybrid Delta RIP package. Among various software RIPs, Harlequin RIP has occupied the absolute advantage of software RIP with its outstanding performance, very high interpretation speed, and adaptability to various imagesetters, occupying most of the share of software RIP. It is worth mentioning that Delta RIP has become a very representative RIP with its very good performance and unique design ideas. This RIP uses list technology. The software interprets the page, uses the hardware to screen and output, improves the output speed, and can also realize one interpretation and multiple outputs.

Compared with the photosetters and other hardware devices, China's research and development of RIP is far less than that of foreign countries. At present, domestic commercial software RIP has been developed, among which are the RIPs of Peking University Founder Century, RIP software developed by Huaguang Group on the PowerPC platform, and RIP Software developed by the Beijing Institute of Printing.

Now, with the launch of large-format photo-composing and CTP (computer-To-Plate), RIP features are constantly being enhanced; for example, large-scale, large-scale proofing, last minute change, preview, pre-check, The processing of rasterization, imaging, etc. is now included in the RIP. Some RIPs also involve post-press binding, and a few RIPs can also send some printing data related to dots and inks to printing presses. Since the speed of RIP cannot keep pace with the processing speed of the image output machine, Multi-RIP has emerged, which is used for multiple RIP parallel operations. Now that RIP is used to handle more output tasks, RIP becomes a pivotal, intelligent service center that performs various output functions. Therefore, choosing a suitable RIP is crucial when setting up a publishing system.

DTP's demand for RIP is getting higher and higher, especially the appearance of CTP, which makes RIP become more important. It requires RIP to have the following functions:

Trapping RIP and the corresponding trapping software can solve the problem of inaccurate color printing.

Imposition Converts a single page group to a large version of a book according to the layout and binding requirements of the publication.

Automatic separations (Separations);

Last minute modification Sometimes a certain page needs to be modified before the printing plate is made. In order to avoid re-processing the entire RIP, RIP only needs to modify the page.

RIP once, output the same data that is processed by RIP multiple times, can be used for pre-print proofing and final product output at the same time, and requires RIP to output different resolutions according to different output devices. Make the same digital RIP proofing and final product output use the same RIP to ensure that the sample proofs are consistent with the final product;

Extensive equipment support capabilities support mainstream output devices in the local market, providing users with more flexibility and choice in configuration systems, and maximizing the use of the functions provided by the system;

Seamless connection between RIP and CTP system overall solution Support digital proofing system, support color management system, support automatic process management system, etc.;

Develop multi-function RIP from the low-end black and white proofing equipment, color digital proofing equipment to high-precision direct plate-making equipment can be driven at the same time, give full play to RIP performance; at the same time ensure a high degree of consistency of the various output results within the system, reduce error opportunities;

Support more friendly man-machine interface and remote monitoring RIP capabilities;

The development of new network technology uses low-resolution output of high-network cable, saving output time.




Source: China Design Printing Network