RIP Resource Guide

Simply stated, a Raster Image Processor (RIP) interprets the data from your image file into a form your printer can understand. Most wide-format printer manufacturers provide some type of basic RIP to interpret the information in your files for printing purposes. However, some users need more than this in order to achieve optimal results. A RIP solution optimizes the performance of virtually every wide-format device available today, in terms of color reproduction, throughput speeds and workflow efficiency. RIPs can translate Postscript instructions, while Windows or Mac printer drivers simply cannot. The RIP can be built into the printing device, bundled as an integrated computer that interfaces directly, or accessed through your network to the desired output device, or come as software. A RIP can run as software on a solo workstation or it can be run in a server configuration, with queues that can RIP print files and drive multiple output devices simultaneously. Some RIPs also have the capability to create and tweak media profiles, and help keep the color of the output device in control. RIPs also provide enhanced workflow production with their varied feature sets.