User`s manual

Chapter 9

Software Overview

Graphic les can be large and the data sent from FastRIP to the printer is sent at a very high speed (high

data rate). In order to get the fastest speed and have the fewest communication problems with the printer,

you need a fast computer. You can use a standard desktop computer or even a laptop, but for the best

performance, the computer should have at least 1GB of RAM (2 GB is recommended). If you want to

continue working and creating artwork while the printer is printing, having a higher amount of RAM is

essential. Ideally you should have a dedicated computer for use with this printer.

While sending data to the printer using a USB cable, do not plug in any other USB devices other than a

mouse and the FastARTIST/RIP dongle. USB busses do not have a lot of power and the more devices

plugged in, the more power drain will occur. In order to run FastARTIST, you MUST use a Windows-

based Operating System such as XP, 2000 or Vista (ME is not supported). MAC users can create their

artwork in their favorite program and simply network or copy the les over to the PC “workstation.”

There are several videos online that deal with art setup, editing and special features of

FastARTIST as well as working in Corel, Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Refer to

Chapter 16 - Product Support for information on how to log on to our support site and

view these videos. Most, if not all of these videos are also included on the Training

DVD provided with the FastARTIST Package.

Graphics and RIP Software

Your printer includes the latest versions of both FastARTIST and

FastRIP. FastARTIST is a graphics application that will make

preparing an image to print, as easy as a click or two of the mouse.

With “one-click wonder” Underbasing and simple clipping features,

FastARTIST can help ease the transition if you are not familiar with

graphics applications.

For avid users of Photoshop, CorelDRAW, Illustrator, etc., you may

choose to work within your graphics application of choice and still

set up the image properly for printing. However, all images MUST be

either Imported into FastARTIST from another graphics application

or created in FastARTIST if you will be printing with white ink. The

le to be imported must be attened RGB les and have a 150 dpi resolution or more.

Once a graphic le is ready to print, it needs to be sent to special software called a RIP (Raster Image

Processor.) This software tells the machine what image resolution to use, how many passes of each

color to make, when and how to print the Underbase and Highlight and how much ink to lay down. To

do all of this for you, we have included with your printer package our own very special RIP program

called FastRIP. YOU MUST TURN OFF ALL SCREENSAVERS AND ENERGY SAVING WHEN

PRINGING! For information about using FastARTIST and FastRIP, consult the FastARTIST User’s

Manual.