dtg rip pro c5 manual

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DTG Rip Pro C5

DTG Rip Pro C5 - User Manual Version 0.1 - Revised June 2011

2DTG Rip Pro C5 - User Manual Version 0.1 - Revised June 2011

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Table of Contents

Quick Start 13Policy On Lost Or Stolen Security Devices ................................................ 13Step 1 – Program Installation ........................................................................ 13Step 2 – Printer Installation and Setup ........................................................ 14Step 3 – Creating a Production Queue ........................................................ 15Step 4 – Test Print to Digital Factory .......................................................... 16Configuring Queues for White and Black Garments ................................ 18Setting the Underbase for a Queue .............................................................. 19Graphics with an Underbase ......................................................................... 21Output from CorelDraw ................................................................................ 21Output from PhotoShop ............................................................................... 23Output from Illustrator .................................................................................. 24Other Important Features .............................................................................. 25

Preview/Interactive view...............................................................................................25Templates and hotfolders ..............................................................................................25Applications Printing chapter .......................................................................................25Underbase from Transparency .....................................................................................26Costing ............................................................................................................................26View Raw Data ...............................................................................................................26

Installation Notes 27Dongle Connection ......................................................................................... 27Connecting Your Printer to Your Computer ............................................. 27


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Configuring DTG Rip Pro C5 311. First Time Setup Dialog ............................................................................. 312. Printer Driver Selection ............................................................................. 313. Create Queue Wizard Intro ....................................................................... 324. Select a Printer Queue ................................................................................ 325. Media Setup ................................................................................................. 326. Layout Mode ................................................................................................ 337. Name Your Production Queue ................................................................. 338. Output Options ........................................................................................... 33Getting the latest updates for your printer .................................................. 34Output Port ...................................................................................................... 34USB Port ........................................................................................................... 34Multiple Queues .............................................................................................. 36Manage Printers ............................................................................................... 37Setting up Queues Options ........................................................................... 37

The DTG Rip Pro C5 Interface 39The Pull-down Menu Bar ............................................................................... 39

Queue Pull-down Menu ................................................................................................40Jobs Pull-down Menu ....................................................................................................40Printers Pull-down Menu ..............................................................................................41Tools Pull-down Menu ..................................................................................................41

Starting and Stopping Print Jobs................................................................... 42Cancelling a Print Job ..................................................................................... 42Queue Tabs ...................................................................................................... 42Active List ......................................................................................................... 43Archived and hold Jobs .................................................................................. 43Preview / Interactive View ............................................................................ 43Context Menu .................................................................................................. 43Preview Pane With Job Selected ................................................................... 44Creating Copies in Visual Production Manager ......................................... 45Croping and Tiling jobs .................................................................................. 45

Transparency and underbase and settings ..................................................................46Always Use These Settings When Importing ...........................................................47

Signlab DTG Print Jobs ................................................................................. 47Restoring an Archived Job ............................................................................. 47

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Setting Queue Properties 49Templates hot folder ....................................................................................... 51

Setting up a Hot Folder .................................................................................................52Using the Template Hot Folder ...................................................................................52

Underbase from the transparency ................................................................ 53Select Underbase Print Mode .......................................................................................53Underbase Strength: .......................................................................................................53Gamma adjustment ........................................................................................................54Choke the Underbase.....................................................................................................54Highlight White ..............................................................................................................55Underbase Repeats .........................................................................................................55Color Passes ....................................................................................................................55

Setting the Page Size ....................................................................................... 56Working with a Fixed Sheet ........................................................................... 57Creating a Custom Page Size ......................................................................... 57Selecting a Template ....................................................................................... 58Creating a Custom Template ......................................................................... 58Template Settings ............................................................................................ 62

Import Template Job Dialog ........................................................................................62Layout Adjustments and Options ................................................................................62Multiple Layout ...............................................................................................................63Shirt and Cap Layout .....................................................................................................64

Templates hot folder ....................................................................................... 64Scheduling Settings.......................................................................................... 66Layout Jobs As They Arrive .......................................................................... 67Enable Archiving ............................................................................................. 68Material cost .................................................................................................... 70Surface Treatment Cost .................................................................................. 71Black, Colored and White Ink costs ............................................................. 71Notes ................................................................................................................. 71Color and White Ink passes ........................................................................... 71Ink Contingency .............................................................................................. 71 Labor Cost ....................................................................................................... 72Tax 1 .................................................................................................................. 72Tax 2 .................................................................................................................. 72Time .................................................................................................................. 72Record Costing Data ....................................................................................... 72Dot Profiles ..................................................................................................... 72Job Properties – Costing ................................................................................ 73

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Job Processing 75Open Page ........................................................................................................ 76Closed Page ...................................................................................................... 77

Costing on a job ..............................................................................................................78View Raw Data Window Options ................................................................ 80

Save ...................................................................................................................................80Print ..................................................................................................................................80Zoom Tools .....................................................................................................................80Color Planes ....................................................................................................................81Configuration ..................................................................................................................81Image Information .........................................................................................................81View as Black ..................................................................................................................81Variable Dot Previews ...................................................................................................81

Archiving a Job ................................................................................................ 82

Application Printing 85Basic concept for black/colored shirt designs ............................................ 85Photoshop KnockOut Plug-Ins .................................................................... 86Image Preparation ........................................................................................... 87Using KnockMeBlackOut .............................................................................. 87Using KnockMeColorOut ............................................................................. 90Apply Soft Edges Using KnockMeColorOut ............................................. 92

Using the History Brush................................................................................................94Using the Magic Wand – Click and Delete .................................................................95Using the Extract Filter .................................................................................................96Making Your Selection a New Layer ...........................................................................96Color Range .....................................................................................................................97

Anti-Aliasing for a White Underbase ........................................................... 97Directly Adjusting the Underbase ................................................................ 98Color Management in PhotoShop .............................................................. 100

Dealing with Working Space Mismatches .................................................................101Color Management in DTG Rip Pro C5 ................................................... 101On-screen Proofing in Photoshop ............................................................. 101Manually sending Files from PhotoShop .................................................. 102Color Management in Illustrator ................................................................ 104

Dealing with Working Space Mismatches .................................................................105Color Management in DTG Rip Pro C5 ................................................... 105On-screen Proofing in Illustrator ............................................................... 105Manually sending Files from Illustrator ..................................................... 106Color Management in CorelDraw .............................................................. 107


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Color Management in DTG Rip Pro C5 ................................................... 108Manually sending Files from CorelDraw ................................................... 109Exporting / Saving Art for Printing .......................................................... 109CorelDraw ...................................................................................................... 110PhotoShop ...................................................................................................... 110Illustrator ........................................................................................................ 110

Print Modes 111CMYK ............................................................................................................. 111Underbase ....................................................................................................... 111High Speed (HS) ............................................................................................ 1122 Pass ............................................................................................................... 112Applying a Print Mode to a job ................................................................... 112Manage Print Modes ..................................................................................... 113Copying a Print Mode .................................................................................. 113Editing a Print Mode .................................................................................... 113Setting the Default Print Mode Within a Queue ...................................... 113Protected Queue Mode ................................................................................ 114Overriding the Print Mode Setting of a Print Job ................................... 114Color Adjustment (Shadows, Midtones and Highlights) ........................ 114

By Levels ........................................................................................................................115Separation Curves ......................................................................................... 116Max Ink ........................................................................................................... 117

Ink Volume Adjustments ............................................................................................117ICC Profiles .................................................................................................... 118Printer Options .............................................................................................. 118Halftone .......................................................................................................... 119Image Adjustments ....................................................................................... 119

Image Sampling ............................................................................................................119Sharpen / Blur ..............................................................................................................119Image Saturation ...........................................................................................................120

Variable dot setup .......................................................................................... 120Critera .............................................................................................................. 120

DTG Rip Pro C5 Interface Options 121Show splash screen .......................................................................................................122Always on top................................................................................................................122Show advanced settings ...............................................................................................122Automatically track items ............................................................................................122Allow Selection of Windows ports............................................................................122Select pages when importing multiple page job ......................................................122


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Set display unit ..............................................................................................................122Set decimal places .........................................................................................................122Reset hidden dialogs .....................................................................................................122RIP System Location ...................................................................................................123RIP Memory Allocation ..............................................................................................124RIP Priority Level .........................................................................................................124Concurrent RIP Operations .......................................................................................124Generate thumbnail previews .....................................................................................125Preview quality ..............................................................................................................125Gamma adjustment ......................................................................................................125Preview image bits per pixel .......................................................................................125Limit number of previews ..........................................................................................126

Performance ................................................................................................... 126

Managing Devices 127

Troubleshooting 129Quick Print Test ............................................................................................ 129Print Test Page Options ............................................................................... 129

Test Page ........................................................................................................................129Ink Limit Target ............................................................................................................130Max Ink Page.................................................................................................................130CMYK Test Page ..........................................................................................................130Agfa IT8 Target ............................................................................................................130Profile Test Chart .........................................................................................................131Profile Test Chart Extended .......................................................................................131

Queue log ....................................................................................................... 133Page log ........................................................................................................... 133Job log ............................................................................................................. 133Preview log ..................................................................................................... 133Test Files ........................................................................................................ 133Check your USB connections ...................................................................... 133Reinstall the Control panel printer driver if you are using this .............. 134Other Dongle or RIP Conflicts .................................................................. 134Check Your Computer’s Resources ............................................................ 134Start DTG Rip Pro C5 BEFORE Sending a Print Job ........................... 134When All Else Fails.... ................................................................................... 134Random thin HORIZONTAL lines through image .............................. 135-or- INK lines appear on the outside of the image ................................. 135Can’t find Send To... buttons for Corel, Illustrator or PhotoShop ........ 135Can’t find RIP driver or access advanced print options .......................... 135


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9Version 0.1 - Revised June 2011

Table of Contents

10DTG Rip Pro C5 - User Manual

Table of Contents

1DTG Rip Pro C5 - User Manual Version 0.1 - Revised June 2011

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PC System RequirementsVPM is a 32-bit Windows application. The following system configuration is the minimum requirement:

` 2GHz or faster processor

` 2GB RAM

` 80GB free hard drive space

` Windows XP Service Pack 3 or Windows 7

` USB 2.0

` 1024x768 monitor resolution or better

The following system configuration is recommended:

` Dual or Quad Core Processor

` 4GB RAM

` 200GB free hard drive space

` Windows 7 64-bit

` Dual USB 2.0 (meaning two separate USB controllers, not front/back ports)

` 1600x1200 monitor resolution or better


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Chapter 1

Quick Start Security Device Dongle

DTG Rip Pro C5 is provided with a USB security device to prevent unauthorized use or pirating of the software. This device plugs into a standard USB port of the computer, and it is transparent to other applications. Only DTG Rip Pro C5 is aware of the device.

Policy on lost or stolen security Devices

` The USB security device provided with DTG Rip Pro C5 is your proof of purchase. If the dongle is lost or stolen, then that is equivalent to losing the entire software package, and a new package of DTG Rip Pro C5 must be purchased.

` In the event of a damaged security device that must be replaced, there is a nominal fee for EXCHANGING a new device for the older device, where the older device must be reclaimed by CADlink.

` Regardless, it is recommended that you ensure that your security device is covered under your business insurance policy.

steP 1 – Program installation

Download the DTG Rip Pro C5 Installer package from http://coldesi.com. The following steps are an overview of installing DTG Rip Pro C5. Within the installation wizard, further information is provided with each individual stage of the wizard.

1. Connect the USB security device NOW.

2. Doubleclick the download and then “Extract All Files” to the “My Documents,” or “Documents”folder. When extraction is complete, run the Installer.

If the install wizard fails to auto start, then you will need to start the installation process manually.

3. When the installation is complete, click Finish to conclude the install wizard.

4. The First Time Setup dialog will prompt for your default layout settings.

5. Proceed to Step 2 - Printer Installation and Setup.


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steP 2 – Printer installation anD setuP

Now that DTG Rip Pro C5 has been installed, you are ready to install the printer support files. At this time, it is recommended that you install your primary production printer into DTG Rip Pro C5. Later, it will be possible to install printer drivers and support files for other printers.

1. Previously, the First Time Setup dialog was used to define your default layout settings.

2. Next, an Install Printers dialog will prompt for your initial printer, for which support files will be installed.If the wizard needs to be restarted, then choose Start menu >> All Programs >> DTG Rip Pro C5 >> DTG Rip Pro C5.

4. After the wizard is complete, proceed to Step 3 – Creating a Production Queue.


Chapter 1 - Quick Start

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steP 3 – creating a ProDuction Queue

Comments About QueuesDTG Rip Pro C5 is a queue-based production manager, meaning that two-or-more jobs can be accumulated and sorted according to their job parameters. For example, a separate queue should be created and assigned to each printer. Likewise, multiple production queues can be created for a given printer, where each queue is used to accumulate jobs for specific job parameters, such as white/color garments and with/without an underbase.From a designer’s standpoint, each production queue is like a print destination that they can print to via File menu >> Print in their graphic design application. The designer would choose the queue that best corresponds to the type of job they want processed.By using the production queues to accumulate jobs from various designers, jobs can be held pending, until the given printer is available, or a given garment/fabric has been loaded, etc.

The Create Queue Wizard will prompt you to configure a production queue for your printer. The stages of the wizard are as follows:

1. On the Printer Defaults page, choose the output port and print mode (media profile) for your printer.

` For the outport port, if you are using an Epson based print engine, select the port that looks something like “EpsonStylus_Pro_4800_USB002+”, the Epson model number and USB number willchange depending upon the printer and your machine.

` To the right of the Print Mode drop-list, clicking the ellipsis (...) button will open the Print Mode Selection dialog.

2. The Name Your Production Queue page asks you to provide a meaningful name that this queue will be referred to.

3. The Media Setup page asks you to define the media size and margins.

` For garment printing you will want to use Fixed Sheet or Templates. If unsure, then choose Fixed Sheet and indicate the total print area.

` Fixed Sheet allows you to select a fixed size that will always be used, this is useful when using absolute positioning or a constant size, such as standardboard. This option does allow you to reposition the graphics in the DTG Rip Pro C5 Preview Pane.

` Automatic sheet mode will use the page size that was set within your graphic design application (e.g., SignLab DTG, Photoshop, etc.). However, this option does not allow for repositioning of the graphics. You must get the positioning correct in the design application.

` Templates are defined by you to print jobs at predetermined “slots” of the garment area, such as for a batch of items that can be printed in a single pass.

4. The Layout Mode page asks you to choose how jobs will be nested on the garment/fabric.



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` Manual – Add jobs to the Preview Pane without attempting to conserve media.

` Auto Nest – NOT INTENDED FOR GARMENTS.

` Auto Page – Use this option when garment printing. Append a page break to each job as it is received.

5. The Output Options page is used to choose how jobs are held when received by DTG Rip Pro C5. For garments, choose either Hold, or RIP Now, Print later.

6. Once these wizard pages have been completed, DTG Rip Pro C5 will launch. Proceed to Step 4 - Test Print to DTG Rip Pro C5.

Page OverlayQueue menu >> Properties >> Layout Manager tab

If the “Process multiple page jobs as overlay” checkbox has been ticked, then the colour layers within a job (i.e., CMYK and spot colour layers) will remain “stacked,” as opposed to being nested as separate jobs.



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Overview of DTG Rip Pro C5 Interface

The main elements of the DTG Rip Pro C5 window are:

` A standard Menu Bar that provides the main DTG Rip Pro C5 controls.

` The Queue menu provides controls for adjusting queue parameters.

` The Jobs menu provides controls for adjusting selected print jobs.

` The Printers menu provides management for printers.

` The Tools menu provides access to advanced RIP settings.

` Below the Menu Bar, a Toolbar provides basic ( Start / Stop ) controls.

` Below the toolbar are tabs for viewing the contents of each queue.

` A list of scheduled jobs that are waiting for printing.

` A list of both unscheduled jobs, and previous jobs (i.e., archived for later reprinting).

` An interactive Preview Pane that shows where each job will be positioned on the media. Selecting a job will reveal positioning and scaling handle.

` A context-sensitive Media Settings pane. When a job is selected, values can be set for scaling, rotating and positioning. When no job is selected, queue settings are available.



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Multiple QueuesQueue menu >> Manage Queues

DTG Rip Pro C5 provides the ability to organize two-or-more queues for sorting jobs according to the types of garment, sizes of garments, different printers, and so on. From the perspective of a designer, each queue name will appear as a printer destination (e.g., when using File menu >> Print in the graphic design application). The media profile information can also be set on a per-queue basis, such that you can have queues for highly specialized purposes.For example, suppose that you are going to be printing to both white and colored shirts. For the white shirts, you decide that no underbase is required, though the colored shirts require an underbase. In this case, creating two queues will provide a convenient means of organizing the two types of jobs.

configuring Queues for White anD Black garments

Note: Before a queue can be created, its printer must be installed.

After installation, a setup wizard helped you configure your first queue, which you presumably configured for either white or color garment types. The following steps show how to add a queue for your other garment type:

1. From the Queue menu, choose Manage Queues to open the Queue Manager dialog.

2. Click the Add Queue button to launch the Create Production Queue wizard.



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3. Proceed through the wizard steps to choose the queue settings (i.e., the printer name, port settings, print mode, page size, etc.).

4. When the wizard is finished, the new queue will be listed in the Queue Manager dialog.

5. Click OK to close the Queue Manager dialog.

6. Below the menu and toolbar, the tab for the new queue will be available.

setting the unDerBase for a Queue

Once the queue has been created, the following procedure can be used to apply a white underbase for all jobs received by that queue:

1. Click the queue tab and then choosing Queue menu >> Properties.

2. On the General tab are the Default device settings, which include the substrate color and priming controls.

3. The Substrate color is optional, and it is used when performing an on-screen preview of the printed garment.

Note: If a black Substrate color has been set, and the Enable priming checkbox has not been ticked, then the on-screen preview will appear black (as it would print).

4. Tick the Enable priming checkbox.



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5. Confirm that the correct Priming print mode has been assigned to the queue.

6. Click the Import Options tab.

7. Tick the “Hide Image Import dialog and use the following settings“ option.

8. Tick the “Create prime layer from transparency layer (if it exists)“ option.

9. Set the print mode according to what should be used with a given transparency layer.

10. Click OK to close the Queue Properties dialog.



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Output from PhotoShop, CorelDraw and IllustratorFor these applications, designs can be sent directly to DTG Rip Pro C5 without needing to use the Print dialog (i.e., File menu >> Print) to choose the print destination and settings. Instead, use File menu >> Send to VPM, which will immediately send the design to DTG Rip Pro C5. Using Send to VPM streamlines the process of interpreting transparency layers as an underbase.

graPhics With an unDerBase

To print with an underbase, all you have to do is is design your image with a transparent background. In CorelDraw and Illustrator, this is automatically the way that a design is prepared on the page. In PhotoShop, you must create a new layer because the background layer does not support transparency.To help you visualize how your image will look when printed onto a colored shirt, create a background layer that is the same color as the shirt color.

` PhotoShop - Create a layer above the Background layer, and fill the layer with the garment color.

` CorelDarw and Illustrator - Create a new layer and move it below all other layers. Then draw a box the size of the design and fill it with the shirt color.

Once the “garment color” layer is in place, it can serve as a preview of how the printed garment will appear. Likewise, using the transparency features in these design applications will help to indentify where the design “shows through” the garment color.In the above image, on the right is an example of a black layer added to represent the garment color (e.g., a black shirt).

Note: Before printing, you need to delete the background (bottom layer) so you dont print the layer that represents the shirt color.

outPut from corelDraW

1. To output from CorelDraw, first delete your background layer that you were using to represent the shirt color.



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2. Then click either the Send to DTG Rip Pro v5 or DTG Rip Pro v5 with Underbase from the menu bar.

3. When printing without an underbase, you can use either the DTG Rip Pro v5, or DTG Rip Pro v5 with Underbase options. But if you want an underbase you must use the “with Underbase” and have the Queue configured to create an underbase from the transparency (see import options in the queue - properties).



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outPut from PhotoshoP

1. Before sending output from PhotoShop, first delete the background layer that you were using to preview the shirt color.

2. Then choose File >> Automate>> Send to DTG Rip Pro v5.



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outPut from illustrator

1. Before sending output from Illustrator, first delete the background layer that you were using to preview the shirt color.

2. Then choose File >> Send to DTG Rip Pro v5 or File >> Send to DTG Rip Pro v5 with Underbase

When printing without an underbase, you can use either the DTG Rip Pro v5 or DTG Rip Pro v5 with Underbase options. But if you want an underbase you must use the “with Underbase” and have the Queue configured to create an underbase from the transparency (see import options in the queue - properties).



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other imPortant features

At this point, we have covered the basics that should be sufficient to get you started. Once you begin to develop a feel for using DTG Rip Pro C5, please review some of the following features that have been developed to improve your production workflows.

interactive Dtg riP Pro c5 vieW

On the right-hand side of the DTG Rip Pro C5 window are the Preview Pane and Media Settings pane. These can be used to visually size, rotate and position each job on the garment material. If necessary, cropping, tiling, and nesting of jobs can also be performed.Advanced controls let you specify page copies (for multiple shirts), or ink pass for same multiple color passes.

temPlates anD hotfolDers

This new feature allows you to create and position print areas. Use the Template Creation window to create and setup your own shirt boards. The templates can be used for 3 UP, meaning you no longer need to layout three shirts in your graphics program. DTG Rip Pro C5 will automatically layout the jobs. As an example of how powerful the templates feature is, consider how this feature can be used for golf balls. The image only needs to be imported once, and then it is automatically duplicated for each printing area on the template. Using a single image loaded into DTG Rip Pro C5, the template feature can even be used to print a pocket, full shirt and cap all at the same time using that one image. The possibilities are virtually endless. Template can also be utilized using the Hot folder support settings for batch processing, such as the Internet printing automation that is used by Zazzle ( www.zazzle.com ) and similar Internet garment companies.

aPPlications Printing chaPter

The Application Printing chapter provides information about underbase removal tools and techniques, anti-aliasing, color management, on-screen proofing, and specific procedures for printing from your graphic design applications.The described features include specialized PhotoShop Plug-ins (KnockMeBlackOut and KnockMeColorOut) that are included with the DTG Rip Pro C5 installation. These plug-ins allow you to visually preview on-screen how an image will print. Of note, there are three preview modes available:

` Image with transparency

` The underbase

` Resulting image on shirt color (you can select shirt color)

You can also control the amount of underbase generated or color removed using a simple slider adjustment. For images already on a color background this provides a simple one step process for perfect results in DTG Rip Pro C5.



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unDerBase from transParency

For any image files that are brought into DTG Rip Pro C5, default underbase settings can be applied, and any transparency layers within the file can be converted into underbase information. These settings are easy to configure and give complete control over the opacity of your printed jobs.

costing The Costing feature is used to collect ink usage data and estimate the production costs associated with the completing print runs. As more data is collected, an average trend in ink usage should be apparent, thereby providing greater ability to predict anticipated material needs for upcoming jobs. Likewise, you will be able to predict materials usage for a given job within the queue.Costing information can be exported to a standard format, for use in database programs such as Excel.Costing information must first be send up under Queue >> Properties. Enter the cost of raw materials. To determine the cost of a job, choose Rip Only. When the job finishes ripping, right-click it, choose Properties >> Show for Page Content >> Other >> Costs to see the per color and total costs of the job.

vieW raW Data

When a job is printed, the image is converted into a spool file (i.e., raw data) that is then transmitted to the printer. Using the View Raw Data feature, the spool file can be previewed on-screen to confirm the pixel data that will be printed.Though the Preview Pane provides an on-screen representation of the job, using View Raw Data will display the actual pixel data that will be printed. In effect, this is a powerful diagnostic tool, where you can:

` Check alignment between your underbase and color passes.

` Check for trapping and anti aliasing issues.

` Display the pixel data as it will appear on the color garment.

` Toggle the color planes on and off, so that you can view (for example) just the underbase.

When unsure about the output of a given design, a last-minute check using View Raw Data will save time and avoid wasted materials (i.e., inks and garment).



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Chapter 2

Installation NotesThe Chapter 1 Quick Start included a step-by-step procedure for installing DTG Rip Pro C5. This chapter provides additional notes concerning the equipment that will be connected to the computer (e.g., USB connections, device drivers, etc.).

Basic Printer SetupWhen initially installing and configuring your printer, please refer to the Operator Manual that was provided with the printer. This will typically involve installing device drivers that are specific to your machine, which allows the computer to transmit data to the machine. Once the printer is setup, install DTG Rip Pro C5.

Computer ConnectionsThe following sections will cover connecting your DTG Rip Pro C5 dongle to your computer as well as your printer.

Dongle connectionFor your USB security device, please ensure that you follow the installation steps as presented in the Chapter 1 Quick Start. Generally, installing your USB security device will be the first that you do, so that the DTG Rip Pro C5 software can confirm that it can detect the device.

connecting your Printer to your comPuterYou may only connect the Garment printer to a computer using a USB 2.0 cable (in the near future, it likely that USB 3.0 technology will become more prevalent, which will be compatible with USB 2.0 cables and devices).Avoid using a cable that is over 6ft in length (due to signal strength attenuation), and do not use a switch box or USB Hub. Failure to follow the these guidelines can cause communication problems between the printer and your computer. Do not overload your USB ports. Reserve one for the printer, one for the security dongle and one for your mouse (if necessary).There are often USB Ports on both the front and back of a computer. It is recommended that you connect your USB cable to one of the back ports to prevent damage to the connector through accidental impact. To connect your printer to your computer via USB cable, most USB to USB cables will work.


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In a computer, the Universal Serial Bus (USB) is a technology that allows for multiple USB devices and equipment to be conntect to the computer. However, having an excessive number of USB devices connected will increase the power supply demands. If you have several USB devices connected (other than a mouse and the USB security device), then you may want to consider removing some of the devices if you are experiencing communication issues with your printer.

NOTE: We recommend using a dedicated computer to control your Garment printer. Avoid using extra USB ports for items such as a webcam, joystick, additional printer etc.

The Operator Manual for your printer should provide additional details about connecting your printer.

Installing the Printer DriverAlthough DTG Rip Pro C5 has its own printer drivers, you must install the printer driver that came with your printer in order to utilize utility programs like Head Cleaning and Nozzle Checks. These are only available for use through your standard inkjet printer driver. If your printer driver has already been installed, skip this section of installation and continue on with with the next section, Installing DTG Rip Pro C5.DO NOT install the EPSON Stylus RIP PostScript driver. This driver can confuse the DTG Rip Pro C5 installation. If you have already installed this driver, delete the Postscript Epson printer driver and re-install only the standard driver. To ensure that you have the most current inkjet driver, go to the Epson web site ( www.epson.com ) and download the most recent version.

1. After DTG Rip Pro C5 is installed, you will have TWO EPSON drivers - the normal driver and one that DTG Rip Pro C5 uses.

2. Insert the “Epson Drivers” CD that came with your printer into the CD-ROM drive.

3. Save any work and close any other programs that may be running on your computer at this time, such as Word, Photoshop, etc. (Otherwise, Windows may ask to reboot the system).

4. Insert the Driver CD into your CD drive and follow the on-screen prompts.

NOTE: Install the regular Epson driver for your inkjet printer, but NOT the optional Epson Stylus Pro RIP. You need the normal driver for performing Head Cleaning Utilities and other utilities.

5. For more information, refer to the Operator Manual for your Garment Printer.

6. Turn your printer ON.

7. A message balloon may appear in the bottom right hand corner of your computer screen stating “New hardware found.” After a few moments, another balloon may appear that lists your printer name, make and model. At this point, your computer should automatically recognize the printer when it is connected.

8. As confirmation of this, you can go Start menu >> Printer and Faxes. An icon representing your


Chapter 2 - Installation Notes

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printer should now appear in the Printers and Faxes window.

Un-installing DTG Rip Pro C5Should you need to either remove the DTG Rip Pro C5 installation, or perhaps perform a completely clean reinstall, then the following steps can be applied to remove the software from your computer.

1. Begin with choosing Start menu >> Control Panel >> Add or Remove Programs.

2. The Add or Remove Programs dialog will open.

3. Scroll through the list of programs and locate an entry for “DTG Rip Pro v5”.

4. For the DTG Rip Pro v5 entry, click the Change/Remove button.

5. A wizard dialog will ask to confirm the software removal.

6. After the software has been un-installed, close the Add or Remove Programs dialog.

7. Open Windows Explorer and browse to the folder where your DTG Rip Pro C5 had been installed.

8. Right-click the DTG Rip Pro C5 folder and choose Delete.

9. Close Windows Explorer.

10. Finally, choose Start menu >> Printers and Faxes.

11. In the Printers and Faxes dialog, right-click the name of your Garment printer and choose Delete.



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Chapter 3

Configuring DTG Rip Pro C5

Configuring Your PrinterAfter you have completed the basic installation, DTG Rip Pro C5 is ready to run. However, prior to printing a job from a graphics program, you must configure DTG Rip Pro C5 to work with your printer.

1. first time setuP DialogGo to Start > Programs > DTG Rip Pro C5 and click on DTG Rip Pro C5. The First Time Setup screen will appear letting you select your preferred measurements options.

2. Printer Package installation

` A screen will prompt you to select a printer.

` Highlight the printer drivers you wish to install and click on the Next button. You will only see the printers listed that work with the version of DTG Rip Pro C5 you have purchased.

NOTE: You may return to this screen at a later time to add additional printers.


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` From the next screen, select the option “Don’t search automatically” Choose the appropriate printer package from your downloaded installation directory.

Click on Next. Click on Next. Click on Finish. When the “Configuration Complete” window appears, click on Next.

3. create Queue WizarD introThe next steps in the installation process will be completing the Create Queue Wizard. The Introduction window will open automatically.

Click Next and follow the steps below.

4. select a Printer QueueThe Printer Defaults window will now appear. This wizard will walk you through the process of configuring your printer port and other default printer options.

` Select your printer and its output port. Most of the Garment Printer only supports USB connections, most garment printers are based on Epson print engines, select the USB port that looks like “EpsonStylus Pro 4800_USB002+” The Pro 4800 and 002 will vary depending upon the Epson model used and USB connection.

5. meDia setuPThe Media Setup page asks you to define the media size and margins.For garment printing you will want to use Fixed Sheet or Templates, if unsure used Fixed sheet and select your total print area

` Roll is used for Roll feed devices, where you have a continous roll of media and want to print continoulsy. Garment are not roll feed machines, so this is not a good choice.


Chapter 3 - Configuring DTG Rip Pro C5

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` Fixed Sheet allows you to select a fixed size that will always be used, this is useful if you want to do your own absoulte positioning or if you always use the same size such as standardboard. This option does allow you to reposition the graphics in DTG Rip Pro C5.

` Automatic sheet mode will allow you to select different sizes when printing from Signlab DTG and other programs like PhotoShop and will use the size selected in the program. But this doesnt allow you to reposition the graphics, you must get the positioning correct in the design program.

` Templates give you complete control over postitioning and allows you to setup your own board sizes and poistions, for both single and multiple jobs. This is the only mode used for the DTG Viper.

6. layout moDeThe Layout Mode window lets you select how to handle jobs as they are imported.For Garment Printers, Auto page is your best default.When finished, click Next.

7. name your ProDuction QueueThe Name Your Production Queue window lets you assign any given name to the Queue you just created. Queues can be reconfigured and renamed at any time after creation.

Click Next, when finished.

8. outPut oPtionsThe last window in the Create Queue Wizard is the Output Options window. This lets you set the default scheduling for print jobs.For DTG printers, select Hold.When finished, click Finish.



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Printer Updatesgetting the latest uPDates for your Printer

To obtain the latest print modes for your printer:

1) Ensure your Internet connection is active.

2) From the Printers menu, choose Manage Printers. The Manage Printers dialog will open.

3) Click the printer name that will be checked.

4) Click the Check for online updates button. If updated print modes are available, then the Update printers button will become available.

5) Click the Update printers button to update the print modes.

Port SelectionoutPut Port

1) From the Printers menu, choose Manage Printers.

2) The Manage Printers dialog will open.

3) For the given printer, the Port column indicates the output port.

4) To change the port, choose a port from the drop-list.

5) To change the port settings, click the ellipsis button (three dots) that is to the right of the drop-list.

usB PortThis is the recommended output port to use with DTG Rip Pro C5.A Universal Serial Bus (USB) port has the benefit of allowing new hardware to be added without configuration concerns or hardware conflicts. In addition, a USB device may be added without requiring the workstation to be restarted.

1. When the Epson printer is connected to the computer via its USB port, Windows will automatically



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detect the USB printer.

2. In DTG Rip Pro C5, the USB port name for this printer should now be available.

3. From the Printers menu, choose Manage Printers.

4. The Manage Printers dialog will open.

5. From the Port column drop-list, choose the USB port that is named specifically for your Epson model. Example: For the Epson 4800, the USB port will be listed as “EpsonStylus Pro 4800_USB00X+port name.”



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multiPle QueuesDTG Rip Pro C5 comes with support for an unlimited number of queues to help you manage your work flows better and to allow you to have different custom work flows for differnt types of jobs that suite your place of business. You can use the multiple queues for all sorts of reasons, some examples

` Setup different settings for printing white garments and colored / black garments

` Want to manage jobs for different shirt sizes or types of garments

` Setup different costings for white and black shirts

` You have multiple printers

In the Queues menu is the Manage Queues... option.

New queues can be created using the + icon in the toolbar, if you are going to be printing both white shirts (no underbase) and colored shirts (with underbase), we recommend that you create two queues. One for printing with an underbase and one without (you can create more as required).Click on the + icon and follow the steps earlier for creating a second queue and name it appropriately such as “black” or “underbase”.



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manage PrintersAs well as supporting Multiple Queues, you can also support different printers in the queues.To Add new printers, use the Printers - Manage Printers menu option

setting uP Queues oPtionsYou can customise each queue go to the Queue menu - Properties to set different settings for each queue.For a complete explaination of all the options see chapter 5 Setting up a Queue.The Queue properties allows you to setup

` Default Print modes and Substrate Colors

` Hotfolders

` Media Setup - Page layout configurations

` Layout manager and Job Scheduling

` Import Options

` Printer schedule maintenance

` Archiving



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Chapter 4

The DTG Rip Pro C5 Interface

Overview of DTG Rip Pro C5 InterfaceThe following sections will cover the Main Window elements of VPM Apparel such as the Pull-down Menus and Toolbar buttons.

The main elements of the DTG Rip Pro C5 window are:

Jobs in the Active List are positioned in the Preview Pane. Selecting a job provides additional

controls for modifying its layout.

the Pull-DoWn menu BarThe Main Menus, provide the main DTG Rip Pro C5 controls.

` The Queue menu provides controls for adjusting DTG Rip Pro C5 parameters.


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` The Jobs menu provides controls for adjusting selected print jobs.

` The Printers menu provides management for printers.

` The Tools menu provides access to advanced RIP settings.

Queue Pull-down Menu

When print jobs are received by DTG Rip Pro C5, they are added to the queue of active jobs. The Queue menu contains basic controls for starting, stopping, and scheduling of print jobs.

` Manage Queues – Create a queue, or change the port or printer of an existing queue.

` Start – Process jobs as they are received in queue. Scheduling settings apply to received jobs.

` Stop – Hold all jobs in queue, regardless of Scheduling settings.

` Clear Job Errors – Reset any errors that were reported, such as paper out.

` Properties – Open the Queue Properties dialog.

Jobs Pull-down Menu

The Jobs menu contains controls for printing, previewing and deleting print jobs.

` Restore jobs – Manage archived print jobs.

` Select all – Selects all jobs in queue.

` Select none – Clear current selection.

` Remove – Delete the selected job.

` Rename – change the job name.

` Open Page – discard the spool data, such that individual jobs can be scaled, rotated, etc.

` Locate Job – find the job in the Preview Pane

` Release – release a held job

` Hold – stop the job, regardless of whether queue is stopped

` Abort – cancel the print job

` Clear error – reset any errors that were reported, such as paper out

` Add to Layout – move an unscheduled job into the active list, and show in Preview Pane

` Print – send job to the printer

` RIP Only (Preview) – spool the print data without sending to printer. Once spooled, the print data can be previewed and costing information can be retrieved

` Generate Preview Image – if thumbnails have been turned off, then create a preview


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` Properties – open the Job Properties dialog

` Show log console – when printing a job, open a log window. Same as Jobs menu >> Properties

>> Log tab

Printers Pull-down Menu

The Printers menu contains controls for managing printers, print modes, and page sizes.

` Manage Printers – Open the Manage Printers dialog, which is used to add support files for new printers, and check for support file updates.

` Manage Print Modes – Copy and edit print modes for a given printer.

` Manage Print Media – Define media dimensions in terms of sheets, rolls, and templates.

` Printer Properties – List printer settings.

` Print Test Page – Choose target charts for testing the printer output.

tools Pull-down Menu

From the Tools Pull-down menu, choose Options to open the Options dialog. The available tabs are as follows:

` General – Basic controls for customizing the DTG Rip Pro C5 interface.

` Queue Base Folder – The location of Queue production files.

` RIP – Allocate memory for the RIP, and set the relative priority of jobs with respect to other Windows applications.

` Processing – Spool extra jobs while waiting for the current print job to finish.

` Preview Options – Adjust the thumbnail image that is displayed next to each job name in the queue.The Main Toolbar, provide quick access to common the most frequently used controls

Below is the list, from left to right, of the 10 buttons in the Toolbar and what they do.

` Open: This is the first icon in the list. The Open Icon lets you import a new job into the Queue list (shortcut of File>Import).

` Remove: By pressing the Remove button, all of the jobs that are currently selected (highlighted) in the Queue Window or Archived window will be removed. You cannot undo a remove command.

` Release Job:

` Hold Job:



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` Clear Errors:

` Abort Job: Lets you cancel a job from spooling or printing.

` Start Queue: By clicking the Start Queue button, all jobs will be processed according to the scheduling settings within the queue properties.

` Stop Queue: The Stop Queue button will cause all jobs to be held, regardless of the scheduling settings within the queue properties

` Configure Queue: Lets you setup and configure queue settings to a job that is currently in the queue list (shortcut for Queue>Properties Pull-down Menu selection).

` Printer Status and Settings: This button will allow you to adjust printer settings and to view the current status of the printer.

starting anD stoPPing Print JoBsWhen print jobs are received by DTG Rip Pro C5, they can be either printed immediately, or they can be collected for later printing. The main controls for controlling print jobs are the Start Queue and Stop Queue buttons (available from the DTG Rip Pro C5 toolbar). If the Start Queue button has been clicked, then print jobs will be printed immediately. If the Stop Queue button has been clicked, then print jobs will be held until manually released.A held job can be printed by right-clicking the job and choosing Print from the context-menu. Alternatively, select the job and choose Print from the Jobs menu.In addition to the Start Queue and Stop Queue buttons, the scheduling settings also control whether a job is printed or held. The scheduling controls are set via Queue menu >> Properties >> Layout Manager tab (see Chapter 5 - Queue properties).

cancelling a Print JoB1. In DTG Rip Pro C5, right-click the job and choose Abort.3. Windows will open a Port Locked dialog. Do not close this dialog.4. From the printer control panel, reset the printer. If there is no reset button (or procedure for resetting the printer), then turn the printer OFF. After powering OFF, power the printer ON after a short pause.5. Return to the Port Locked dialog and click OK to continue.At this point, the printer should be ready to process new jobs, and buffer data from the cancelled job will have been cleared.

Queue taBsSelect between printers using the Queue Tabs located below the Main Toolbar. Each tab will display the printer title that is associated with it and the number of current/holding jobs located in its Active and

Archive List.



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active listIn this section of the RIP Window you can view each job that has been imported into DTG Rip Pro C5 and control its current status or settings. When you click on a job, in the active list the DTG Rip Pro C5 view will automatically focus on that job.If you wanted to adjust or cancel a job you can click on the job, then select either a function from the main Toolbar or right click on the job for options. Jobs can be dragged back and forth between the Active and Archive panels.At the top of the Active List is a section title showing particular information about the jobs; such Job Name, Copies, Print mode. By right-clicking on any of these titles, you can specify which ones are present. In this example all options are present. Each line between the titles can be dragged to expand the information under that title. The scroll bar at the bottom of the window lets you view the information of the job when expanded.

archiveD anD holD JoBsAfter a job has been printed, it will show up in the Archived Jobs area of DTG Rip Pro C5, you can also drag jobs into this area that you do not want to proces immediatly and use it as a holding area.

PrevieW / interactive vieWHere you will see the placement of the job to be printed or printed job in relation to the page layout or template that have loaded for that job. Located in the Preview Pane is a Zoom tool that lets you zoom in and out of the page layout. It also features page control arrows and scroll bar as well as a ruler specifying the art in relation to the unit measurements selected.Jobs can be interactivily resized and moved in the Preview/Interactive view, simply click on the job in the Preview/Interactive view and drag any of the corners to resize. Click and hold in the image to move it around the print area. You can also right click on a job in Preview/Interactive view to Remove, Rename, Rotate and other options.To zoom in and out use the Control + and Control - , if you want to drag an image across a page boundary hold the control key down.

context menuThis area will change, depending if you have a job selected or no job selected.When a job is selected, this area provides an interface for job menu for exact positioning, sizing, croping and other job functions.When no job is selected this provides a Queue / Page based menu, so you can set the number of copies you want to print of the page or change the layout mode. For example if you are in template mode, you



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can select a different template to use.

PrevieW Pane With JoB selecteDWhen a job is selected (Fig. 4), the context-sensitive controls at the bottom of the preview pane can be used to adjust the settings of the selected job.

` (A) Copies - Opens the Create Copy Group dialog, which is used to specify the number and spacing between copies.

` (B) Tiles - Opens the Tiling / Cropping dialog in tile editing mode, which provides tools for dividing the job into tiles.

` (C) Crop Job - Opens the Tiling / Cropping dialog in crop editing mode, which provides tools for

defining the size and position of the cropped area.

` (D) Duplicate - Create a single copy of the selected job.

` (E) Job Size, Position, Scaling - These fields provide controls for adjusting the physical parameters of the job.

` (F) Rotate - From the drop-list, choose the job rotation in increments of 90 degrees.

` (G) Crop Mark - This button is a toggle. Clicking once will place crop marks at the corner bounds of the job, whereas clicking again will hide the crop marks.

` (H) Invert - Invert the image colours to create an effect like a photographic negative.



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` (I) Mirror - Flip the job horizontally.

creating coPies in Dtg riP Pro c51. Select the job and then click the Copies button.

2. You can the specify the number of horizontal and vertical copies required and spacing.

3. You can also create copies in the Preview/Interactive view by draging on the vertical and horizontal anchor points.

croPing anD tiling JoBsTo Tile or Crop a job click on the Crop or Tile button with the job selected.You can either type in values for the crop area or drag from the top, bottom, left and right margins to create a crop.

Importing a File and Import OptionsFrom the DTG Rip Pro C5 toolbar, the Open button can be clicked to import an image file (e.g., PDF,



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EPS, BMP, TIFF, etc.) or you can select File>>Import. Alternatively, an image file can also be drag-and-dropped onto the DTG Rip Pro C5 window, causing that file to be imported. In either case, the File Import Options are applied when importing the given file type.

` Scaling: This Option lets you scale the image either by preserving the aspect ratio (checkbox) or changing it to fit your needs.

` Optimize Image for Speed: This option will jpeg compress bitmap images in order to print faster.

` Always use these settings when importing: This option will allow you to use the same import settings for all file types.

If checked, the Image Import dialog will no longer open every time you import an image. In this case, to gain access to this dialog in the future, go to Queue >> Properties >> Import Options tab.Uncheck the Hide Image Import dialog and use the following settings checkbox. This will gray out the screen and allow you to make the necessary settings each time you import an image into DTG Rip Pro C5.

transParency and underbase and settings

Since DTG Rip Pro C5 recognizes transparent files, the Import Options dialog will include extra options for the Underbase and other options such as passes and a highlight white option, when importing a transparent file.Select Yes to “Do you want to create a Underbase from the transparency layer”.

Note: If you do not need an Underbase or do not care about the extra options, you can leave this as No and set the job up as if the file were a non-



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transparent image.

Select the Underbase Print Mode and other options.See Chapter 5 Queue Properties and Import Options for more information on using these settings.

always use these settings when iMPorting This option will allow you to use the same import settings for all file types. If checked, the Image Import dialog will no longer open every time you import an image. In this case, to gain access to this dialog in the future, go to Queue >> Properties >> Import Options tab. Uncheck the “Hide Image Import dialog and use the following settings” checkbox. This will gray out the screen and allow you to make the necessary settings each time you import an image into DTG Rip Pro C5. You can also set a default in this window.

restoring an archiveD JoBJobs Pull-down Menu>>Restore Jobs: The Restore Job dialog allows you to restore a selected job or multiple jobs, jobs can be archived off onto separate hard drives or network location (See chapter 6 Job properties for archiving jobs)1. From the DTG Rip Pro C5 window, select a Queue Tab to indicate which queue you want the job to be restored to.

2. From the Jobs Pull-down Menu, choose Restore Jobs.

3. The Restore Job Tickets dialog will open.

4. Select the job archive that you want to restore.

5. Click the Restore Archive button.

6. Click the Close button.



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Chapter 5

Setting Queue PropertiesThe following sections will cover configuring a DTG Rip Pro C5 Queue for page layout, job scheduling, hot folders and much more.You can always use different settings with multiple queues to best setup your different work flows.

There are three main sets of options in Queue Properties.Settings - These tabs cover default print modes, hot folders, media setup and are covered in detail in this chapter.Print mode overrides - These tabs cover options to override the print modes settings, most of this is covered in Chapter 8 - Print modesOther - The Costing tab is covered in this chapter and the Log is covered in chapter 11 Troubleshooting.


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General TabSelect your prefered default print mode (if you are not sure use the Default). Typically higher resolutions will put down more ink and give you a more saturated and brighter colors, but also take longer to print.

If you are going to be using this queue for printing with an underbase, you can select a substrate color (only do this if you will be using this queue with an underbase).You can now select the color of the garments you will print onto with this queue and the Preview/Interactive view will display your graphics as they will print on this color garment.

Note: If you select black and print without an underbase the image will appear black (as it would print).


Chapter 5 - Setting Queue Properties

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Printing to a Hot FolderThe Hot Folder is simply a directory on the workstation hard drive that will be monitored for new print files (PostScript, PDF PSD, Jpeg files). If any print files are placed in the directory, then these will be added to the queue as new print jobs.Typically, the Hot Folder is used by other graphic designers on your computer network. They will copy their jobs into the Hot Folder, and your workstation queue will then be able to process those jobs. However, please note that other graphic designers will need the appropriate file access permission (as granted by your network administrator) to copy files into the hot folder.In DTG Rip Pro C5, a hot folder is designated by

1) On the Queue Properties dialog, click the Hot Folders tab.

2) Tick the Enable queue hot folder checkbox.

3) A browse dialog will open.

4) Choose a directory and click OK.

When a PostScript job or other supported format file is placed within the hot folder, DTG Rip Pro C5 will load the file and use the Queue settings for print modes and underbasing.

temPlates hot folDerTemplates come with their own Hot Folder support, providing an automated way of using templates. This is ideal for users who want to setup work flows with minimum or no interaction with the DTG Rip Pro C5 workspace. It can be used with Internet front ends, in which customers could upload files via the Internet and then placed in the correct hot folder for printing to the correct board or with additional front end software to avoid actual interaction with DTG Rip Pro C5.To enable the Template Hot Folder:

` Go to Queue Properties under the Queue Pull-down Menu and select the Hot Folder tab.

` Tick the appropriate checkbox.

` Set the Hot Folder location. A window will open up requesting a Hot Folder location.

` You can select whether or not you would like the print file to be deleted on completion.



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setting uP a hot Folder

1. To setup a Template Hot Folder, first create a master folder (directory) on your local machine or across a local network.

2. Then go to Queue Pull-down Menu>>Properties>> Hot Folders tab.

3 Tick the Enable template Hot Folders checkbox.

4. In the Browse For Folder window, browse for the master folder (directory) you created in Step 1.

5. Click OK

using the teMPlate hot Folder

After setting the Hot Folder, DTG Rip Pro C5 automatically creates a subfolder in the directory for each of your templates. Simply by adding jobs into the “named” template folder, the jobs will be added to your queue, using that template. The jobs are added in Express mode. In this example, a 3-up folder, there is a folder representing each slot number. So if you add a job to the root of this folder it gets added to the queue using this template in Express mode, but if you add the job into one of the subfolders labeled “1”, “2” or “3”, then the job will be added to that particular slot of that template.It’s easy to use hot folders for templates and have complete control over which template and slot is used for printing the job.



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Import OptionsThe import options are the same options as you get when you add a new job to a Queue, see Chapter 4 - Main Interface and Importing a file and import options.You can hide the import dialog and setup settings to always use when importing, so that the jobs are setup correctly automatically. You can select to always scale to a specific size, optimize bitmaps for speed and automatically create an underbase from transparency.

unDerBase from the transParencySelect the Underbase Print Mode and other options.

select underbase Print Mode

Higher resolution will use more white and so are better suited for dark garments, while for lighter garments you may be able to use lower resolutions which will print faster.

unDerBase strength:This has 4 settings for determining the Underbase to be created.

` None: Doesn’t create an Underbase, would only typically be used if you just wanted a highlight white on the image

` Weak: Converts the transparency information to an Underbase and then processes the Underbase to remove areas of the Underbase where the colors in the main image are black (as you do not need to print white under black). The Weak setting uses the least amount of ink for the Underbase.

` Medium: Converts the transparency information to an Underbase and then processes the Underbase to remove areas of the Underbase were the colors in the main image are black (as you do not need to print white under black). The Medium setting is best at maintaining colors and darker shadows.

` Strong: Will create an Underbase from the transparency without modification.



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Note: Medium is recommended setting, minimum will use the least amount of white ink.

gaMMa adJustMent

Gamma is another term for the levels adjustment found in programs like PhotoShop. Gamma Adjustment applies a gamma adjustment to the white Underbase either lightening or darkening the midtones and has a small proportional effect on highlights and shadows. 100% pure color and 0% pure color are not affected at all. Gamma Adjustment is very useful for controlling the amount of white used when blending in a graphic with the shirt color and as an additional trapping tool. A low value will put down less white ink where the image is partially transparent, while a high value will put down more black ink in the same area.This graphic shows the gamma effect on a white underbase gradient with values of 10, 128 and 245,

so higher values will use more white under partial transparent areas (to much can create a white halo effect) smaller values will use less white and act as a choke on the white underbase in these areas. Too little and all that will show through though is the shirt color. Default is 128.You can use this to control how much white ink is used in areas that are partially transparent, and how much shirt is displayed in these areas.

choke the underbase

The Choke the Underbase options have 5 different settings. These settings are used when the Underbase is created to choke / trap or shrink the white Underbase so that when printing, the white ink area is smaller than the color print area and stops any white showing due to registration or bleed problems.

` None – Applies no choke to the Underbase

` Minimum – Applies a choke of equivalent to 2 pixels at 720dpi

` Medium – Applies a choke of equivalent to 3 pixels at 720dpi

` Maximum – Applies a choke of equivalent to 5 pixels at 720dpi

` Extreme – Applies a choke of equivalent to 10 pixels at 720dpi

Note: The accuracy of the choke depends upon the resolution of the image, (see the AVI’s on choking for more information), but typically you want 300/360dpi images to get a good accurate choke. If you choke too much, then it can cause other problems (most noticeable on lighter color shirts) and create what looks like a stroke color around the object. Best defaults are Minimum or Medium for Light color shirts and Medium or Maximum for Black shirts. You should only use this if you have registration issue between the white and color pass.



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highlight white

The Highlight White setting creates a highlight white to be printed as part of the color pass

` None – Doesn’t create a highlight white

` Weak – Creates a weak highlight white, uses the least amount of white ink in white areas only.

` Medium - Uses more white ink for the highlight in areas of pure white.

` Strong – Use 100% white ink in areas of pure white.

Note: Using too much white, especially in the color pass, can cause your colors to become washed out. This happens when the White ink and color inks mix. It’s best if you can avoid using a highlight white for DTG and get a good white underbase instead. If you do use this, use it sparingly to avoid color shifts, unless you are printing white ink only.

underbase rePeats

Underbase Repeats is the number of Underbase passes to be printed. Using Underbase Repeats can make registration issues more apparent.

color Passes

Color Passes is the number of Color passes to be printed.

Using multiple Color Passes can make registration issues more apparent.



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Media Setup - Page Layout configurationThe following sections will cover configuring DTG Rip Pro C5 for page layout, there are several options you might find useful and you can always use different settings with multiple queues to best setup your different work flows.

setting the Page sizeMedia Setup tab The page size is the size and margins of the loaded media, which will be used for positioning of jobs in the Preview Pane.

` Roll media - DO NOT USE.

` Fixed sheet media - Preview jobs in terms of a fixed page width and height. This is a good option to select for garment printers, use this or templates. Use Fixed Sheet Media for the DTG HM1.

` Automatic sheet media - Use the sheet width and height that was defined in the design application. Use this only if you want to do the layout and positioning inside the application and will use Control Panel to print to DTG Rip Pro C5.

` Templates - Select form existing templates and/or create your own templates. These can be used to pre determine print jobs position and/or for copies and multiple shirts per platen. Use Template media for the DTG Viper.

From the Name drop-list, choose a preset media.

For most garment devices you will be using the Fixed Sheet or Template option.



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Working with a Fixed SheetFor most garment printers there should be a page already defined that is the size of the print area on the bed, such as 13x22 and this should represent the full print width available on your device, you can then position jobs anywhere on this area to print as required.

If a page size doesnt exist for your garment printer, you can create one by creating a custom page size.

creating a custom Page sizePrinters Pull-down Menu>> Manage Print Media

1) Select, from the Printers Pull-down Menu, Manage Print Media.

2) From the Show media for drop-list, choose the printer name.

3) The existing page sizes for the printer will be listed.

4) Click the Add new print media button.

5) From the Create New Media dialog, choose Sheet.

6) Complete the parameters for the given media.

7) You can now select your new Sheet size in the Queue - Properties - Media setup.

Working with Page Layout TemplatesTemplates can be used for lots of different work flows and you can use multiple templates within a queue. Templates will save you hours of time and allow you to automated repetitive tasks such as laying out jobs as well as setup an automated work flow inside DTG Rip Pro C5 if required. When using templates, jobs as they arrive can be automatically scaled, rotated and positioned.

NOTE: The templates are most useful when printing on garments with a Garment Printer.

Some of the uses for templates are:

` Setting up a custom board size, where you can select the size of the print area and its exact position inside the print area of the bed

` Setting up custom nesting of jobs, multiple board/print areas inside the print area of the bed (for example, on the DTG Viper setup 4 different shirt boards).

` Automatic duplication for printing the same image on a number of objects at the same time.



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selecting a temPlateQueue Menu>> Properties>>Media Setup tabTo use templates, you must first make sure you have your Queue properties > Media setup configured for Templates.

1. Under the Type drop-down arrow, select Template Media.

2. To select a existing template, under Name drop-down arrow, select one from a list.

NOTE: To select a template from another location (a custom template in a custom location) click the icon to browse for the custom template. See next section, Creating a Custom Template.

creating a custom temPlate

1. Select Add New Media There are 2 ways to select Add New Media.

` Select Add New Media from the Template list in the Media setup.

` Select Add New Media from the main window in the smart menu area (with no job selected) you can select Add New Media from the Template Media options drop down selection.



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2. Set Name and Page Size The Template Setup Dialog will open.

` First, enter in a name for the template under Name. For this example, we’ll be setting up a 4-up Shirt Board template for the DTG Viper

` Next, select the total page size under Based on Sheet. For this example, 16.5x29 inches is the total printing area of the machine.

NOTE: You can enter in a custom size by selecting Custom from the list. Enter the dimensions under Size.

3. The next step is to define the first slot. Slots are somewhat like nesting where you set the printable areas and later assign the images to those areas for printing. For this example, the slots will represent the Shirt Boards on the 4 up platern (4 shirts at a time). Jobs are printed inside of the slots and areas outside of the slots are the non-printable areas or masked areas. You can have multiple slots in several different arrangements to accommodate any need, if required. Each slot will have a number assigned to them (from 1 to 9). Slots assigned with a unique number can be for separate jobs or slots that share the same slot number will print the same job.

` To define the first slot, under Slot Label, select 1 (use the up and down arrows to adjust.

` Next, the Position fields act as margins. For this example we will set the left and right margins to 0.0 inches and the top and bottom to 0 inches.

` Under Size, enter in the print area dimensions. (7.5” wide and 13” high for this example).

` Under Alignment, set at center for the job to be automatically centered in the slot.

` You can set Automatic Scaling to enable jobs to be scaled and positioned after they are added to the template. This feature can help to ensure that the job is the right size before printing. For this example we are leaving it as is.

` Under Rotate, you can select to have the template automatically rotate the artwork based on landscape/portrait settings. For this example, we have selected Rotate 270 (90° x 3 clockwise) based on having the shirt loaded with the neck of the shirt on the left of the slot (shirt board). If you wanted to load the shirts on the right side, you would select Rotate 90.



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Once you have added all the details for your slot, click on Add to create and it will show in the preview.

4. Add Additional Slots (if necessary). Additional slots can be created by repeating step 3. Deselect current slot and continue with the next dimensions. If the next slot overlaps the current slot, it will not let you add. If the next slots will be the same (dimensions etc), you can easily make duplicates of the first slot or any other slot. There are five icon tools that will help in the creation of your template layout.

Copy selected slot down in position

Copy selected slot to the right Delete selected slot Move selected slot up Move selected slot down

The Copy slot spacing will allow you to adjust the measurement between the copied slots (either by left and right or by above and below).



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So, if you wanted extra space between the first slot and the one that will go below it, do the following:

` Select the slot to copy

` Enter the extra measurement in the appropriate field

` Click Copy selected slot down in position.

NOTE: If an icon is grayed out, it is not available for use, i.e., not having enough room on the template

available.

5. Separate slot numbers (if necessary).

Copying slots will leave all the slots with the same slot number (1). This is fine if you are for printing copies of the same job. If you want to print different designs on each slot, change the slot numbers of the duplicate slots.

` Select the slot you want to change

` Adjust the slot label number to a new number.Click Update to apply the change Any other changes you want to make can be made in the same way. Click Save to save your new template.

Note: You can create as many different templates as you want and select them from the main interface as discussed in the earlier section, Selecting a Template.



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temPlate settings

iMPort teMPlate Job dialog

In the Layout Manager you can choose how jobs are added to the templates.

By default the “Show import template job” dialog is enabled. This means as each job is added to DTG Rip Pro C5 a dialog will display which template and slot are used, allowing you to edit the setting. If this is disabled then the Express method is used.

` Express will import the job into the next available slot, using the currently selected template in the queue.

` Select will allow you to select which template and slot you want to add this job to.

` Select the template you want to use from the drop list.

` Select the slot you want to use by using either drop down list on clicking on a slot.

` Cancel will cancel and the job will not be added.

layout adJustMents and oPtions

Once jobs are added you can change there position and re-size them as normal, you can even drag and drop jobs between slots if required.Using this type of template there is no reason to have to layout the 2 jobs in an application like Illustrator first, simply send two separate jobs and DTG Rip Pro C5 will handle the layout for you.



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MultiPle layout

This example template layout shows a possible template for printing tennis balls, all of the slots are slot 1 and this means when an image is added it will be duplicated in all the slots and is a simple way of printing the same image on many Tennis balls at once.

Note: Select Scale to fit, under Scaling on the first slot so the job will be scaled down to fit inside the slot area, in each slot number.

Simply add a job and the job is scaled and correctly laid out ready for printing.Slots can also be setup with different sizes (even if they have the same slot number).



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shirt and caP layout

This is a template layout that will print a T-shirt and a Cap from the same image.Both slots are set to the same slot number and because they are different sizes both use the Scale to Fit Always, so that the image will be scaled to the correct size for the shirt board and the cap board.The Shirt board is set for rotate 270, as the neck of the shirt will be loaded on the left and the cap will be no rotation.

temPlates hot folDerTemplates come with their own Hot Folder support, providing an automated way of using templates. See the the Hot Folder section earlier in this chapter.



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Layout Manager TabQueue Pull-down Menu >> Properties >> Layout Manager tab To access the Queue Properties dialog, from the Queue Pull-down Menu, select Properties and then click the Layout Manager tab. The Layout Manager tab is used to schedule jobs and manage jobs that exceed the media size.The available controls will vary according to the model of printer, the Layout Mode selection (if available), and whether Tools menu >> Options >> Show Advanced Settings is enabled.

Note: If the queue is Stopped, then all jobs are automatically placed on Hold, regardless of the Output Scheduling settings.



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Setting the Layout and SchedulingQueue Pull-down Menu>> Properties >> Layout Manager tabThe following sections contain brief summaries of layout and scheduling controls that affect how jobs are processed when received by DTG Rip Pro C5. From the Queue Pull-down Menu, choose Properties >> Layout Manager tab to access the Layout and Scheduling Features.

scheDuling settingsThe Output Scheduling controls are set according to the type of job.

The scheduling controls are differentiated according to print jobs, DTG Rip Pro C5 doesnt support cut jobs. For Print only jobs you can Hold, so all jobs are not automatically processed on arrival. RIP Now, Print later, which means the job will be RIP and ready for printing but not automatically printed or RIP and Print now, which will RIP and Print the job as soon as the printer is ready.



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layout JoBs as they arrive

When jobs are received, the default behavior is that they are “scheduled” (i.e., put in the active list, and positioned in the Preview Pane). However, this behavior is toggled per the “Layout jobs on page as they arrive” checkbox.

` ON = incoming jobs will be placed in the active list, and positioned in the Preview Pane

` OFF = place jobs in the unscheduled list

The Template options are explained earlier in this chapter in the Template section in Media Setup.Process Multiple page jobs as over lay is for multiple page jobs which are generally not used in Garment printing.

Printer StatusWith most Epson-based printers, you can setup a scheduled head clean in this tab. This is useful if you are leaving the printer for a period of time and want to keep a regular flow of ink through the head. Some manufacturers recommend this as part of preventive maintenance.



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Archiving Print JobsPrint jobs can be archived as a combined JTB file that contains the job data and log data, such that the JTB can be safety stored (i.e., backups) and then restored at a later date, saving time from respooling a file as well as preventing any “guess work” in the job settings, etc. Archiving a job in this fashion is convenient because the log and notes related to the job are preserved, such that specifics about the job will be available upon restoration.

NOTE: keep in mind that spool files require relatively much more hard drive space than original files.

enaBle archivingQueue Pull-down Menu>>Properties>>Job Reserve tabThe Archiving tab in the Queue Properties dialog offers a few functions, one of which allows you to enable the Archiving function.

This dialog also gives you the option to save the spool file on job completion and gives statistics of how many jobs have been archived.

Note: You can also enable job archiving by right clicking on a completed job and selecting Archive to Disk.



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Print mode overridesThe Print mode overrides allow you to change any of the settings in the print mode you have selected as the default for the queue. A complete guide to print modes is explained in Chapter 8 - Print modes.But it is good practice to always sync your ICC Profiles in the Queue Properties to that of your applications. See Chapter 7 - Printing from Applications.Click the ICC Profile tab.The Override Input Profiles checkbox should already be checked (if not, check it).For the “Select profile set to use” drop-list, choose Custom. The RGB and CMYK tags can now be set to match your PhotoShop, Illustrator, Corel settings.

NOTE: It is generally preferred to use the same settings for the Line Art and Bitmap tags.

This will ensure that your files print with the same settings as they were designed with on your computer.



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Costing InterfaceQueue Pull-down Menu >> Properties >> Other >> Costing tab DTG Rip Pro C5 allows you to keep track of costs in several different variables.

material cost The material cost can be calculated in one of three ways using the drop down box.

` Per Unit A fixed price per print and typically used for T-shirts and other fixed price items when printing and will calculate the price using the value entered

` Per Square Foot This option, will calculate the price based on the actual area printed using the value per square foot.



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` Per Square Meter This will calculate the price based on the actual area printed using the value per square Meter.

surface treatment costThis can be used for a number of different material treatments, such as a pre-treatment for t-shirt printing

` Per Unit is a fixed price per print and typically used for T-shirts pretreatment and other fixed price items when the surface treatment is fixed or largely an estimated fixed price

` Per Square foot will calculate the price based on the actual area printed using the value per square foot.

` Per Square Meter will calculate the price based on the actual area printed using the value per square Meter.

Black, coloreD anD White ink costsThis is always entered per liter, if you don’t buy your ink by the liter then you will have to calculate the per- liter costs by dividing your volume purchased into a liter and multiplying this by your cost. Because on some printers Black ink is cheaper, black ink has been treated as a special case. Also on some machines White ink is more expensive so it also has its own separate costs from other colors used.

notesAllows you to add a text description, containing any notes you wish.

color anD White ink PassesThis is so you can enter the number of passes the printer makes when printing color pass or the white pass (if printing white). With some printers you select the number of passes when you print (or in the general tab), but some printers can control the number of passes internally. For this reason the number of passes you use with print jobs should be set manually in the costing interface and match the number of passes you use when you print.

Note: You can always change this on a job-by-job basis or you can setup different queues, say one for 2 white passes when doing black shirts and another queue with 1 white pass when doing lighter colored shirts.

ink contingencyWith all inkjet printers, there is a certain quantity of ink waste that occurs during head cleaning and other routine maintenance tasks. The amount of ink used in these tasks will depend upon the printer and also the amount its used (the more you print, normally the lower the ink wastage as an overall percentage). Entering a % in this field will add this to the total ink used and effect the cost, so you can factor in the running costs including head cleaning and other maintenance.



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laBor costAll printing requires some labour, from loading the materials, to pre treatments, lamination and packaging for shipping. You have three ways you can calculate this.

` Per Unit is a fixed price per print and typically used for T-shirts and other fixed price items when the labour is typically the same for each item.

` Per Square foot will calculate the price based on the actual area printed using the value per square foot.

` Per Square Meter will calculate the price based on the actual area printed using the value per square Meter.

tax 1This allows you to apply a tax to the total cost of the job. Its added as a percentage of the total cost of the job

tax 2This allows you to apply a tax to the total cost of the job. Its added as a percentage of the total cost of the job when you select regular tax and is includes that costs of Tax 1 when you select Additive tax as in some countries / states.

timeThis does not effect the cost and is just for information purposes.

` Per Unit is a fixed time per print and typically used for T-shirts and other fixed printing and application timed items.

` Per Square foot will calculate the time based on the actual area printed using the value per square foot.

` Per Square Meter will calculate the time based on the actual area printed using the value per square Meter.

recorD costing DataYou can select to record the costing information automatically, either at the queue level, job level or both. The data is then exported to this location in a .csv format, suitable for importing into Excel and relational databases for account and reporting. Using this feature you can further customise the costing as required. For example if you wanted you can use the information in Excel and add time as an additional cost item or process all jobs in a week and calculate total labor time.

Dot Profiles In order for the costing to be calculated, it required that the software knows what the dot volumes are when printing and these will vary depending upon the resolution and other factors. This information is normally provided in the driver (when available). However you can change the dot volumes (based on a per print mode) and/or if they are absent, add your own estimates.



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JoB ProPerties – costingIn order to see the costing, you must first RIP the job (right click and RIP only), you can then see the costing tab in the job properties (Right click – properties – show properties for page content for singe jobs).This costing will reflect the information entered in the queue properties, but it can be changed. For an example, if, for a particular job, you want to change the tax or ink contingency you can. You can also change the number of passes, if it differs from the defaults you setup in queue properties.It is also possible to get a quick simple print of this information to your desktop printer or export the CSV file for use in another program.



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Chapter 6

Job Processing

This chapter will explain the various stages of printing a job, changing settings on an individual job and checking the data and costing information.

If you right-click on a job in the Active list it will display a menu of options (these are a duplicate of options found in the Jobs Main menu.The properties option can be accessed directly by double clicking on the job.Note: Jobs are in one of three main states, (Open Page) Pending, (Closed Page) Ripped or Processing (being Ripped or being Printed). To access the properties, the job must be in the Open page or Close page state, you cant do anything while its actually RIPing the job or Printing.The list of available options in the menu and what functions you can apply to a job depends on if its Pending or Ripped (Open or Closed Page).When the job is Pending (Open page), before it has been Ripped. You can resize, position, rotate, crop and change any settings on the job.


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Once the job has been Ripped (Closed page), you are no longer able to make these changes. If you need to make these changes, use the Open Page from the right mouse click menu. This will remove the Ripped data (so you will need to process it again before output), but will then allow you to make changes as required to size, position and anything else.Note: If you setup your scheduling to anything other than None (See Chapter 5 - Layout Manager), the new jobs will automatically be Ripped and you will always have to Open the page. If you are always adjusting the layout or other options, change this to None in Queue properties - Layout Manager.When a page is closed and the paged Ripped, its creating the actual output data for the printer, the preview you see in the DTG Rip Pro C5 view is a low resolution version of this data.

oPen PageIn the Open page state, each jobs is accessible separately. You can select each job individually and make changes to its size, print mode, position and many other options to how it will print.

Multiple jobs can be placed on the same page, arranged as required. If there are multiple jobs on a page (for example doing a 2up, 2 shirt boards loaded at the same time), when you RIP one job, the page will be closed and all jobs on that page with be Ripped.Note: All jobs on that page must share the same print mode (or at least the same printer options).If you go into Job Properties, you can change the print mode or any of the print mode settings for just that job. For more information on these settings see Chapter 8 - Print modes


Chapter 6 - Job Processing

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closeD PageOnce a page is closed and Ripped you can no longer make changes to its size, location etc..

If there is just one job on the page, then it will remain as a single entry in the Active list view. The properties is now available for both the page and the job itself.The Page properties you can still specify the number of copies of this page you want to print, it will also display the printer options (which must be common to all jobs).The page content properties (job properties) will display the rest of the settings used by the job such as ICC profiles. These can’t be changed (without Opening the page), but you can still view them. Also in the properties of the job you can now view the costing information, this is only available once the job has been Ripped.If there are multiple jobs on a page, then you will get a nested view and can access page and individual job properties by clicking on the appropriate object in the list view.



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costing on a Job

By going to the Job properties of a job once it has been Ripped (in the closed state), you can click on the costing tab to view the costing information.

You can do a quick print of this information or export it as a CSV file for Excel or other accounting programs.

Previewing Print Data - View Raw DataPrint data can be examined on-screen prior to printing, this is the actual pixel output data.This allows you to confirm the print data that is available in each color layer and channel. For example you can confirm that the white data will print first and then your CMYK data, you can view the amount of highlight white in the CMYK pass and look for trapping issues that could occur due to antialiasing issues.

1) Click the Stop Queue button to pause the queue.

2) Right-click the job and choose RIP Only. When the job has finished, its Status will indicate “Holding [Job spooled]”

3) Right-click the job and choose View RAW data.



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4) Click the Plane Select button if its not already being displayed.

You can use the Plane Select dialog to turn on and off layers or individual channels.

For example to view just the white underbase layer.Clicking on the background color will allow you to change the background (garment color)



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Using the View Raw Data you can capture a lot of problems before they are printed, saving time, Ink and money.

For example in this case we can clearly see a white halo around our text, this has been caused be AntiAlias text in PhotoShop (see chapter 7 - PhotoShop).

vieW raW Data WinDoW oPtionsIn the View Raw Data Window, you will notice a toolbar offering several options. These options are outlined below.

save

Select the Save button to save the picture as a bitmap image for comparisons or later viewing.

Print

Select the Print button to print the preview. For example, the preview can be printed to a desktop printer for use as a sample.

ZooM tools

Select Zoom In, Zoom Out, or select a Percent Zoom to view the image as a whole, or particular sections within the image. You can also use Control + and Control -

Zoom In

Print Zoom Out

Zoom Selection

Color Plane Selection

Configure

Image Information

Save



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color Planes

Clicking the Planes Select button opens the Select Planes to View dialog. The color channels used to print the image will be listed. Unchecking layers and/or color channels is useful as a means of confirming the inks that will be used when rendering the image and on what passes.Note: If you double click on a color name, you can change the color its uses to display on screen and its level of opacity.

conFiguration

Click the Configure button to open the Preview Configuration dialog.

` Treat Process as Spot This option is typically off. However, when viewing color separations that are a combination of process and spot colors, setting this option = ON can help to obtain an improved view of the color blends and control opacity on process colors.

` Show True Pixels Resolution Many printers have different horizontal and vertical resolutions. The image that appears in the viewer is automatically adjusted to account for this, when Show true pixels resolution is unchecked. Checking Show true pixels resolution will show the image without this automatic adjustment, which will cause the image to appear stretched.

` Cache Size If the viewer is drawing too slowly, and additional memory is available on the hard drive, then increase the size of the memory cache to increase the viewer speed.

` Units Select the units of measurement from the drop list (pixels, inches, or centimeters). The units of measurement appear in the bottom right corner of the View Raw Data dialog.

iMage inForMation

Clicking the Image Info button will open an Image Info dialog. The dialog includes a list of information specific to the image including the printer, resolution, color planes, image size, and file location.

view as black

Check the View as Black option to change the background color to white, and all other colors to black, within the image preview.

variable dot Previews

Variable dot support is incorporated into the print modes provided with DTG Rip Pro C5. By applying one of the DTG Rip Pro C5-provided print modes, variable dot will be automatically used with the given print job when a printer support them (such as most Epson printers).With respect to on-screen previews, note that a monitor display is not capable of previewing variable dot output because a monitor display contains only one size of pixel on-screen. Therefore variable dots are displayed as saturation levels of the color. For example light black (small dot), grey (medium dot) and black for the black (big dot) for the black channel.To view white, you need to use the View as Black to see the variable dots correctly.



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Archiving Print JobsPrint jobs can be archived as a combined JTB file that contains the job data and log data, such that the JTB can be safety stored (i.e., backups) and then restored at a later date, saving time from respooling a file as well as preventing any “guess work” in the job settings, etc. Archiving a job in this fashion is convenient because the log and notes related to the job are preserved, such that specifics about the job will be available upon restoration.

NOTE: keep in mind that spool files require relatively much more hard drive space than PostScript files.

archiving a JoB

1. Right-click the job and choose Properties. If the job has already been spooled (printed) a flyout menu will open; select either Show for Page Output or Show for Page Content. Both options will open the Job Ticket Properties Dialog. Note: if selecting Show for Page Content, there will be a few more options, such as compression settings etc. For typical output archiving, select Show for Page Output.

2. Select the Archiving tab.

3. Tick the Enable job archiving checkbox (if not already).

4. To cause the spooled print data to be included with the archive (optional), tick the Spool checkbox. Note that spool files are quite large in comparison to the corresponding original PostScript file.

5. Under Archive Job Ticket, confirm that the Location indicates where you want the archive file to be stored. To set the destination, click the button.



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6. Click the Archive button.

7. You will be prompted to name the archive file.

The archive will now be created at the given location (stored as a JTB file type).



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Chapter 7

Application PrintingIntroduction

The following section details how to print from the main software applications, Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and Corel Draw as well as other programs.In order to simplfy the work flow for printing on to dark shirts, the Software Developer has provided plugins for 32-bit versions of PhotoShop, Corel and Illustrator to make it easier to create designs and send the to DTG Rip Pro C5 without having to actually create an underbase, it will be generated automatically for you.

NOTE 1: When the 64-bit versions of Photoshop and Illustrator are installed, the 32-bit versions are also installed automatically. The plugins will not work in the 64-bit versions, but you can choose to manually launch the 32-bit versions of Photoshop or Illustrator from the Start Menu.

For other programs you can use the Windows File-Print Menu , it works the same no matter what program you are using, you can use this to print on to White shirts from any application.For other programs and black shirts, if you can save your output and use specific file types having a transparent backgroud to import into DTG Rip Pro C5, this will greatly simplfy your work flow.

PhotoShop, Corel and IllustratorBasic concePt for Black/coloreD shirt Designs

Its very easy to create graphics for printing with an underbase and to control where you want the shirt color to show through and how much you want it to show through. This is the secret of really good garment printing, when the design intergrates into the shirt color.All you need to do is create a bottom layer (you can do this in all three programs), fill the bottom layer with the color of your shirt (for Corel and Illustrator draw a box the size of you graphics and fill it with the shirt color).Now create 1 or more additional layers above the background and start creating your design, you can use trasnaparency, shadows and any other effect to blend into your shirt color. Controling where and by how much the shirt color shows through.


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Printing from PhotoshopTo send an open Photoshop file directly to DTG Rip Pro C5, go to File >> Automate >> Send to DTG Rip Pro v5. Keep in mind that ALL layers will be printed, regardless of whether or not they are hidden, so delete any layer you wish not to print.

This is easier to use than the File- Print as all you have to do is select the queue you wish to print to.

You can use this for both white and colored/dark shirts with an underbase.

Note that DTG Rip Pro C5 will print ALL layers of a Photoshop image, regardless of whether or not they have been hidden.

PhotoshoP knockout Plug-insDTG Rip Pro C5 comes with our legendary Knock-out Photoshop Plug-ins that allow you to knock out the background of complex and simple background images while giving you the option to view the art with an underbase or different shirt color backgrounds.

` KnockMeBlackOut - This plug-in is optimized for creating an underbase for either black or near-black colors. If you have an image that already has a black background, and you want to print onto a black shirt, then this plug-in provides a one-hit sequence for preparing the image.

` KnockMeColorOut - This plug-in can be used to remove any color (including white). For example, if printing to a red shirt with an image that has a red background, this plug-in can remove a specific percentage of that red from the image as a one-hit preparation. Though this filter can be also used for removing black, it is recommended that you use the KnockMeBlackOut filter instead.


Chapter 7 - Application Printing

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image PreParationBefore running these plug-ins for your image, ensure that the image is on its own layer, and NOT on the default Background layer.To do this, select from the Layers Pull-down Menu, Duplicate Layer. A second layer will be visible in the layers palette named “Background Copy.” You now have a duplicate of the default background layer that you name and apply actions to, separately.You will need to be familiar with editing layers in your design, as it is not possible to setup an underbase on the default Background layer.Delete the original background layer.

using knockmeBlackoutThis plug-in is optimized for creating an underbase for either black or near-black colors. If you have an image that already has a black background, and you want to print onto a black shirt, then this plug-in provides a one-hit sequence for preparing the image.The KnockMeBlackOut Dialog allows you to remove black and gray backgrounds from your images and preview the result. To open up the KnockMeBlackOut Dialog, select it from the CADLink flyout of the Filter Pull-down Menu. The window will display the original image above a preview of how it will appear with the black background knocked out. By adjusting the Underbase strength, shades of gray can be included with the knocked out portions.This plug-in is optimized for creating an underbase for either black or near-black colors. If you have an image that already has a black background, and you want to print onto a black shirt, this plug-in effectively provides a one-hit sequence for preparing the image.



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` Preview – The original image is shown above the filtered image. At the bottom-right is a zoom control for inspecting the filter results. When the zoomed image does not fit within the available space, click and drag to reposition the preview.

` Transparent – This is a preview mode that shows how the image will appear once it is saved back to PhotoShop. This is the best view for inspecting the color that will be printed.

` Show Underbase – This preview mode shows the white underbase that will be created. Note that the preview is inverted, such that black areas represents the white underbase, and the white areas will not be applied with underbase.

` Shirt Color – This preview mode combines the shirt color, underbase and color components to show the preview as it would appear on the finished shirt. The color picker can be used to choose the specific hue that represents the shirt color.

` Underbase – Use this field to adjust the underbase strength (0-255) that will be applied to the shirt. The default underbase setting is 64 (about 25% of maximum). Increasing this value will cause more Underbase (and a corresponding amount of color) to be laid down when printing.

` Reset – Set all the dialog controls to their recommended defaults.



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Changing the underbase setting does not change areas that will have 100% white ink in the underbase, nor areas that require no white ink in the underbase. Instead, the underbase setting will change the amount of white ink used to blend the black color (of the shirt) into the color of the graphics. As more white ink is used (i.e., in the shadow regions of the image), more ink in the color pass will be required in order to maintain the shadow.The end result is that shadow regions will be lighter and more visible.

The Underbase slider controls how much white underbase to put down. Naturally, increasing this value will lay down more underbase (i.e., spot white). However, as a consequence of laying down more underbase, a corresponding increase in colors will occur to balance this.

This is a clipped area of the original image. In this example, we’ll use this image with the KnockMeBlackOut Plug-in.

In the Show Underbase preview mode, black portions show where the underbase will be applied.

In the Shirt Color preview mode, the underbase and the finished design are previewed on the shirt (shown here as red).



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Here are all three preview modes with the default Underbase of 64. From left to right, the preview modes are listed below.

Here are the same preview modes with the Underbase set at its maximum level of 255.

using knockmecoloroutThe KnockMeColorOut plug-in is similar to the KnockMeBlackOut dialog, except that a specific hue can now be selected and removed from the image.The KnockMeColorOut Dialog allows you to remove any color background from your images and preview the result. To open up the KnockMeColorOut Dialog, select it from the PhotoShop flyout of the Filter Pull-down Menu.

Transparent Show Underbase Shirt Color

Transparent Show Underbase Shirt Color



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1. Click on the original (top) image to select a color to remove or

2. Click the “Color to Remove” color picker and the color to remove from a color selector

Again, the rest of the tools and options in the KnockMeColorOut Dialog (Preview modes: Transparent, Shirt Color, Show Underbase, the Preview Window, Underbase Strength etc.) will work much like the ones in the KnockMeBlackOut Dialog.The Underbase setting can vary from 0 to 1000, with a default of 100 (i.e., 10%). In the following two images, Underbase settings of 100 and 650 have been applied. At the higher Underbase setting, less ink will be applied, allowing more of the shirt color (e.g., a red shirt) to show through and blend with the image.

With an Underbase setting of 100, only about 10% of the selected hue is “knocked out,” which provides a greater background contrast with the shirt color. This would be appropriate when printing onto a black shirt, so as to retain more of the red image.

With an Underbase setting of 650 (65%), this would be appropriate for printing to a red shirt. Less ink would be used to print the image color, thereby allowing the image to blend more naturally into the shirt color.



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If the shirt color were black, then the Underbase setting of 100 would be suitable because more of the red image background would be retained. However, if the shirt color were red, then an Underbase setting of 650 would allow a more natural blend between image background and the shirt color.

aPPly soft eDges using knockmecoloroutThe KnockMeColorOut plug-in can also be used to help with blending soft edges into the shirt color. For example, Fig. 11 shows the image of a doe that needs to be applied to a black shirt. However, if we merely perform a blanket knockout of the white background, then the result is a white halo effect that (usually) detracts from the image quality.

If we inspect a small region of the doe’s back, then we can see why this happens. The fur of the doe is difficult to select and remove correctly. Though increasing the tolerance of the Magic Wand tool can capture more of the off-white pixels, removing bits of the off-white fur will produce a hard edge that detracts from a natural image. What is really needed here is to retain the fur and blend it into the black of the shirt.

For the image on the left, we want to knock out the white background for application to a black shirt. However, the preview on the right shows that off-white pixels will create a halo effect around the doe.

By increasing the Overprint setting, more of the white halo is removed. However, fine detail is lost (i.e., the doe hair).



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The solution is to create a duplicate layer of the image, then use the Magic Wand tool to clean the outer contour of the underlying layer image.

The KnockMeColorOut tool can then be applied to the top-most image to remove white and off-white. Adjust the Underbase setting to achieve the desired blend of fur with the black shirt background. This will remove the white spots from the top-most image, but the white spots from the underlying image will now show through (thereby preserving the image quality).

On the left, the Magic Wand tool was used to carefully remove the off-white portions along the fur, including the hairs of the fur. On the right, we have a second layer copy of the doe with fur intact.

The KnockMeColorOut can now be applied to the top image. This removes off-white from along the hairline, though removes white from the animal pelt as well.



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Once the top image is ready, use the Layers Pull-down Menu > Merge Layer command to combine it with the underlying layer image. The image is now ready for application to a black shirt. Using these techniques, you can blend even complex images like fur and hair into your shirt, thereby obtaining the highest quality t-shirt printing results.

using the history brush

In our previous KnockMeColorOut example (i.e., a doe on a white background), we were required to prepare the image on two layers because the KnockMeColorOut plug-in would otherwise cause white portions within the doe fur to be lost. However, a simpler method can be to use the History tool to undo the portions that were knocked out of the doe fur.

1. Start with the original image that has been pasted on its own layer (e.g., the doe in our previous examples).

2. Apply the KnockMeColorOut plug-in to the image, and increase the Underbase setting to remove off-white portions as well.

3. From the Tools palette, click the History tool.

4. The History palette will open, and discrete steps of the editing history for this image will be listed.

Once white has been removed from the top image, right-click the layer and choose Merge Down. This will combine the top image with the underlying image (which still has the white spots on its coat).



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5. In the History palette, tick the checkbox that is at the far-left of the “Pasted” layer. This indicates to the History tool that this step in the editing history will be the source.

6. At this point, the History “brush” is like a regular brush. Adjust the size of the brush and then click on the image where portions from step (2) need to be reversed.

Other Photoshop Background Removal Methods

In order to make removing backgrounds as easy as possible, try to maintain a consistent/neutral background if possible. For example, if photographing the motorcycle shown on the following page, park in front of a wall or a background that contains a much lighter color than the bike. This will help Photoshop determine the difference between the selected background and the object (such as the motorcycle) you intend to keep.

using the Magic wand – click and delete

With the Magic Wand, click on the unwanted areas around the image and then delete them. It’s a pretty simple process IF the background color is different (contrasting) from any of the edges of your image.Click an area in the background and the Magic Wand will make a selection around the image. If the “marching ants” selection goes into the main design, change the Tolerance on the Property Bar. The default is 32. Note: if you are working on a “flattened”

Click to indicate that the original pasted layer will be the “source” for the History tool.



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piece of art (JPEG) with 1 layer named: “Background,” you need to first duplicate this layer to switch to “PSD file mode” to get the transparent background. The original layer can then be deleted.

Depending upon the variations and gradients in the background, it may require some trial and error with Tolerance settings and several selections before the background is completely removed.If the first click of the Magic Wand does not get all the unwanted areas, you can add to the selection by holding down the [Shift] key and clicking another area. You can subtract from the selection by holding down the [Alt] key and clicking on a area.

using the extract Filter

Photoshop also has a Filter called Extract. This will allow you to draw around an image and fill the center with color. Photoshop then removes all the areas around the image, leaving you with a transparent background. Extract does a decent job, but the Magic Wand is the preferred method.

NOTE: Keep in mind, the Magic Wand and Extract filters perform best when the background is a solid color and not a gradient.

Making your selection a new layer

The goal behind all this is to get your main image on a layer with a transparent background. (This will show as a gray and white checkered pattern throughout the image). With a transparent background, you can add additional elements to the image including text, drop shadows, glows and more.



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color range

Under the PhotoShop Select menu, the Color Range tool is used to select a specific hue (or range of hues). However, for black or near-black, the KnockMeBlackOut performs significantly better than Color Range.

` For other hues (including white), both Color Range and KnockMeColorOut will produce comparable results. However, the advantage of KnockMeColorOut is its ability to show results in three preview modes (Transparent, Show Underbase, and Shirt Color).

anti-aliasing for a White unDerBaseWhen printing with a white underbase, take care to avoid design elements that introduce visible aliasing (i.e., staircasing). For example, adding text objects to the design in PhotoShop can create aliasing because the text needs to be rasterized when output. If at all possible, do any text work within a vector-based program like Illustrator or CorelDraw and then layout the text with the images from PhotoShop. For cases where you must layout your text within PhotoShop, use the advice as explained here:

` When adding text in PhotoShop, there are five anti-aliasing options (older PhotoShop versions may have a checkbox for toggling the anti-aliasing ON/OFF).

` When enabled, anti-aliasing will blur the edges of the text into the background. By default, anti-aliasing in ON.

` However, with anti-aliasing enabled, this introduces the same white halo issue that occurred when removing the white background from the doe image.

` Instead of attempting to blend the text into the background, it is easier to simply turn anti-aliasing = None or OFF.

` Though turning off anti-aliasing will cause noticeable staircasing, there won’t be a white halo.

` If the text requires higher quality, then use Image menu >> Image Size to increase the resolution.

NOTE 1: Aliasing is only an issue when printing with an underbase because it will produce a halo effect. If printing to a white shirt, then there will not be an issue.

NOTE 2: Avoid saving the finished file in JPEG format, as the compression method used for JPEG can introduce aliasing issues.

NOTE 3: When copy and pasting objects from (say) Illustrator or CorelDraw into PhotoShop, these objects will be anti-aliased by default.



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Directly aDJusting the unDerBaseAfter having applied either the KnockMeColorOut or KnockMeBlackOut plug-ins, it may be desirable to selectively edit the underbase. This can be done by converting the underbase information into an editable channel, to which the standard PhotoShop editing tools can be applied, including the Image menu >> Adjustment flyout tools.

Suppose that we have an image on its own layer, and we have applied KnockMeBlackOut to remove the image background.

1. From the Select menu, choose Load Selection.

2. The Load Selection dialog will open.

3. Click OK to accept the dialog settings.

4. The previously created underbase will now be the active selection.

5. From the Select menu, choose Save Selection.

6. From the Channel drop-list, choose Layer 1 Mask (i.e., the name of image layer).

Creating a selection from the currently defined underbase, which was defined when using the KnockMeBlackOut tool.



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7. Click OK to continue.

8. In the Layers palette, there will be a Layer Mask Thumbnail

9. Clear the current selection (i.e., Select menu >> Deselect).

10. Select Channels from the Windows drop-list. In addition to the RGB channels, there will be a Layer 1 Mask channel. At this point, any of the PhotoShop tools can be used to modify the underbase (e.g., brush tools, Image menu adjustments, etc.), by selecting this channel.

11. For example, in the Channels palette, click the Layer 1 Mask.

The complex selection has now been defined as a distinct mask, which will be editable (i.e., the underbase can be edited using the PhotoShop tools).



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12. Then from the Image menu, choose Adjustments >> Levels.

13. Use the Levels dialog to adjust the midtones of the underbase, so as to modify how much of the shirt color will show through.

14. Once the adjustments are complete, the channel can be removed in the Layers palette (i.e., in the Layers palette, right-click the Layer Mask Thumbnail and choose Apply Layer Mask).

color management in PhotoshoPTo configure the color management settings in PhotoShop, go the Edit Pull-down Menu and select Color Settings. Since PhotoShop is a general purpose graphics design application that can be applied to a number of uses, use the default color management settings as a guideline, and adjust these settings when you have specific output requirements.The Color Setting dialog is used to set the color management settings in PhotoShop. In Adobe Creative Suite products, note that Adobe Bridge is used to set the color management that is used across the suite.When you use several design applications for creating, modifying and outputing your jobs, it is important that you have consistent RGB color management settings. Otherwise, differences in these settings can cause dramatic color shifts that interfere with your output quality. For RGB working space settings, the most common working spaces are: 1) sRGB, 2) Adobe RGB, and 3) Apple RGB. Adobe RGB tends to be the most popular with photographers.

` sRGB is somewhat of a web standard.

` Apple RGB is often used for pre-press purposes.

For t-shirt printing, any of these three working spaces should be fine. The working gamut of a t-shirt printer is relatively small, so none of these working spaces will have a particular advantage over the others. In DTG Rip Pro C5 the default working space is equivalent to Adobe RGB.

NOTE: If your design applications are already set for Adobe RGB, then no further changes are required because this is the same default that DTG Rip Pro C5 will use.

For whatever working space settings that you decide upon, make certain that they are consistent across the applications that you are using. By having consistent working spaces, this means that importing new elements into your design will be automatically provided with correct color management.

NOTE: For the Adobe Creative Suite products, note that the Adobe Bridge component is used to set the working spaces, which will then be enforced across the entire suite of products automatically.



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dealing with working sPace MisMatches

Once you have decided on all your working space settings, consider how you will resolve possible conflicts. For example, the Color Settings dialog (Fig. 20) has Profile Mismatches and Missing Profiles options for prompting when the working space of imported files are in conflict with your established workspace.

If your working space is Adobe RGB, then decide in advance about how to resolve an imported image that is tagged as either sRGB, Apple RGB, or some other working space. Usually, it is a good idea to convert import images to use your current working space, as this ensures you are consistently using the same working space.

color management in Dtg riP Pro c5In DTG Rip Pro C5, you can confirm the working space settings as follows:

1. From the DTG Rip Pro C5 Queue menu, choose Properties and click the ICC Profiles tab.

2. The Override Input Profiles checkbox should already be checked (if not, check it).For the “Select profile set to use” drop-list, choose Custom. The RGB and CMYK tags can now be set to match your PhotoShop settings.

on-screen Proofing in PhotoshoPUnder the View menu, the Proof Colors toggle will preview your design on-screen as the job will appear when printed. However, prior to using this toggle, the Color Settings dialog must be configured with the printing profile that is being used with DTG Rip Pro C5.

1. From the Edit menu, choose Color Settings.



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2. The Color Settings dialog will open.

3. Within the Working Spaces section, click the CMYK drop-list and choose Load CMYK

4. Browse to the following location, where all of the DTG Rip Pro C5 profiles are stored: C:\DTGRIPProV5\rip\system\clinks

5. Within this location is a sub-directory that is named for the model garment printer that you are using. For example: C:\DTGRIPProV5\rip\system\clinks\DTGVIPER

6. For some models there can be a subsequent sub-directory that is named for the color model that the profile was designed for.

7. Regardless, once you have found the correct sub-directory, choose the ICC profile that is used in your print mode.

Once this ICC profile has been chosen in the Color Settings dialog, the View menu >> Proof Colors toggle will correctly preview your job on-screen . However, keep in mind that this setting is specific to the given printer, and you may want to reset the profile to its default for working with other devices.

NOTE: This feature works best when you have calibrated your monitor, such that you are using a custom

input profile for your monitor.

manually senDing files from PhotoshoPIf you are working from a Macintosh or remotely on another computer, you can save your graphics as a PSD file and then manually add it to DTG Rip Pro C5 using drag and drop.Ensure that under Edit - Preferences - File Handling you have Maximise PSD and PSB file compatibilty on Always or Ask.If you have any issues collapse all layers (text and objects) into a single bitmap layer.Save with ICC profiles enabled.



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Printing from IllustratorYou can only use the File-Print method to print to white shirts from Illustrator, but the Software Developer has provided a plugin that is available under the File menu.


You can use Send to DTG Rip Pro v5 for white shirts and Send to DTG Rip Pro v5 with Underbase for colored/dark shirts with an underbase.

When using the Send to DTG Rip Pro v5 feature, only the graphics in the document setup (Artboard) is sent, so ensure all the graphics you want to print are inside the Artboard area.In the Windows menu, there is a Send to DTG Rip Pro v5 that will display a floating menu from which you can also send your current job to DTG Rip Pro C5.

When creating graphics in Illustrator, you can use transparency and other features to allow the shirt color to show through an object and control the opacity (and the amount of underbase) that will be printed. To visualize this its easiest to create an additional layer at the bottom of the stack, call it background and create an object the size of your Artboard (document setup) and fill it with your shirt color.



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color management in illustratorTo configure the color management settings in Illustrator, go the Edit Pull-down Menu and select Color Settings. Since Illustrator is a general purpose graphics design application that can be applied to a number of uses, use the default color management settings as a guideline, and adjust these settings when you have specific output requirements.The Color Setting dialog is used to set the color management settings in Illustrator. In Adobe Creative Suite products, note that Adobe Bridge is used to set the color management that is used across the suite.When you use several design applications for creating, modifying and outputing your jobs, it is important that you have consistent RGB color management settings. Otherwise, differences in these settings can cause dramatic color shifts that interfere with your output quality. For RGB working space settings, the most common working spaces are: 1) sRGB, 2) Adobe RGB, and 3) Apple RGB.

` Adobe RGB tends to be the most popular with photographers.



For t-shirt printing, any of these three working spaces should be fine. The working gamut of a t-shirt printer is relatively small, so none of these working spaces will have a particular advantage over the others. In DTG Rip Pro C5 the default working space is equivalent to Adobe RGB.



NOTE: For the Adobe Creative Suite products, note that the Adobe Bridge component is used to set the working spaces, which will then be enforced across the entire suite of products automatically.



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dealing with working sPace MisMatches

Once you have decided on all your working space settings, consider how you will resolve possible conflicts. For example, the Color Settings dialog has Profile Mismatches and Missing Profiles options for prompting when the working space of imported files are in conflict with your established workspace.If your working space is Adobe RGB, then decide in advance about how to resolve an imported image that is tagged as either sRGB, Apple RGB, or some other working space. Usually, it is a good idea to convert import images to use your current working space, as this ensures you are consistently using the same working space.



2. The Override Input Profiles checkbox should already be checked (if not, check it).

3. For the “Select profile set to use” drop-list, choose Custom.

4. The RGB and CMYK tags can now be set to match your Illustrator settings.

on-screen Proofing in illustratorUnder the View menu, the Proof Colors toggle will preview your design on-screen as the job will appear when printed. However, prior to using this toggle, the Color Settings dialog must be configured with the printing profile that is being used with DTG Rip Pro C5.

1. From the Edit menu, choose Color Settings.

2. The Color Settings dialog will open.

3. Within the Working Spaces section, click the CMYK drop-list and choose Load CMYK

4. Browse to the following location, where all of the DTG Rip Pro C5 profiles are stored: C:\DTGRIPProV5\rip\system\clinks

5. Within this location is a sub-directory that is named for the model garment printer that you are using. For example: C:\DTGRIPProV5\rip\system\clinks\DTGVIPER

6. For some models there can be a subsequent sub-directory that is named for the color model that the profile was designed for.



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7. Regardless, once you have found the correct sub-directory, choose the ICC profile that is used in your print mode.

Once this ICC profile has been chosen in the Color Settings dialog, the View menu >> Proof Colors toggle will correctly preview your job on-screen . However, keep in mind that this setting is specific to the given printer, and you may want to reset the profile to its default for working with other devices.

Note: This feature works best when you have calibrated your monitor, such that you are using a custom input profile for your monitor.

manually senDing files from illustratorIf you are working from a Macintosh or remotely on another computer, you can export your graphics as a PSD file and then manually add it to DTG Rip Pro C5 using drag and drop.Select File - Export and select PhotoShop PSD format Select 300PPI for resolution, Flat Image, Embedded ICC Profiles enabled and AntiAliasing disabled

Printing from CorelDrawYou can only use the File-Print method to print to white shirts from CorelDraw, but the Software Developer has provided a plugin that is available under the Application launcher menu.


You can use DTG Rip Pro C5 for white shirts and DTG Rip Pro C5 with Underbase for colored/dark shirts with an underbase.



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When using the Send to DTG Rip Pro C5 feature, only the graphics in the page area is sent, so ensure all the graphics you want to print are inside the page area.When creating graphics in Corel, you can use transparency and other features to allow the shirt color to show through an object and control the opacity (and the amount of underbase) that will be printed. To visualize this its easiest to create an additional layer at the bottom of the stack, call it background and create an object the size of your page size and fill it with your shirt color.

color management in corelDraWTo configure the color management settings in CorelDraw, go the Tools Pull-down Menu and select Color Managment. Since Coreldraw is a general purpose graphics design application that can be applied to a number of uses, use the default color management settings as a guideline, and adjust these settings when you have specific output requirements.

Decide and set your internal RGB working space.

When you use several design applications for creating, modifying and outputing your jobs, it is important that you have consistent RGB color management settings. Otherwise, differences in these settings can cause dramatic color shifts that interfere with your output quality. For RGB working space settings, the most common working spaces are: 1) sRGB, 2) Adobe RGB, and 3) Apple RGB.

` Adobe RGB tends to be the most popular with photographers.



For t-shirt printing, any of these three working spaces should be fine. The working gamut of a t-shirt printer is relatively small, so none of these working spaces will have a particular advantage over the others. In DTG Rip Pro C5, the default working space is equivalent to Adobe RGB.



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2. The Override Input Profiles checkbox should already be checked (if not, check it).

3. For the “Select profile set to use” drop-list, choose Custom.

4. The RGB and CMYK tags can now be set to match your Illustrator settings.



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manually senDing files from corelDraWIf you are working from a Macintosh or remotely on another computer, you can export your graphics as a PSD file and then manually add it to DTG Rip Pro C5 using drag and drop.Select File - Export and select PhotoShop PSD format Select 300DPI for resolution, RGB for color mode, Apply ICC Profiles on and AntiAliasing disabled, Transparent background enabled.

Printing from other ApplicationsFor White T-shirts you can use the File-Print method and print using a normal Windows control panel printer. This printer driver can be shared across a network as for any other driver.If your program supports transparency you can save in any of the following formats and simply drag and drop the file on to DTG Rip Pro C5.

exPorting/saving art for Printing

We recommend exporting art into one of the formats described in the previous section (PSD, TIFF or PNG). If you export correctly, you should be able to import the images into DTG Rip Pro C5. The following is an example of the steps you would take and should apply the same in most Vector Applications.

` Select File >> Export

` Select Export Type: A Export dialog will open with a field to enter a name as well as a drop-down or list of available export file types. Select either PSD, TIFF or PNG (see previous section for descriptions).

` Set File Options: Depending on what file type, there will be separate options. PSD: Select High Resolution (300dpi) or click other and set desired; select write layers - note that your image needs to be converted to 1 layer or the psd file will have multiple layers. TIF: Select High Resolution (300dpi) or click other and set desired PNG: Select High Resolution (300dpi) or click other and set desired; select Transparent for Background Color.

` Save with ICC profiles enabled

` Save with Transparent background enable

` Save with Anti Aliasing disabled.

Using the above procedure to save files with a transparent background, you can print from many programs such as Gimp, Xara and others with an underbase as easily as Corel and PhotoShop.If you setup a hot folder (see chapter 5 - Setting up a queue), then these files can be saved/exported directly to the hotfolder and will automatically be added to the DTG Rip Pro C5 queue for processing.



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Adding Send To... buttons to remote computers If you want to add the Send To... plugins to remote computers running CorelDraw, PhotoShop or Illustrator you can.First make sure that your DTG Rip Pro C5 folder is being shared and you can access and have write access to it from your remote computer.

corelDraWFor CorelDraw buttons, on your remote computer use your Network explorer to go to the DTG Rip Pro C5 installation location and then run the INIFixer.exe in this location.This will add the buttons to the Application launcher next time you start CorelDraw.When you first use the buttons, use the browse button and browse again across the network and select the DTG Rip Pro C5 installation folder and select OK.You should then be able to use the Send To... buttons to send jobs to the remote DTG Rip Pro C5 from Corel.

PhotoshoPFor PhotoShop buttons, on your remote computer use your Network explorer to go to the DTG Rip Pro C5 installation location and then copy the file PhoToQueue.8bf to your local machine and place it into you PhotoShop plugins directory Automate folder.eg. C:\Program Files\Adobe\Adobe Photoshop CS3\Plug-Ins\AutomateThis will add the buttons to the Automate menu next time you start PhotoShopWhen you first use the buttons, use the browse button and browse again across the network and select the DTG Rip Pro C5 installation folder and select OK.You should then be able to use the Send To... buttons to send jobs to the remote DTG Rip Pro C5 from PhotoShop.

illustratorFor the Illustrator buttons, on your remote computer use your Network explorer to go to the DTG Rip Pro C5 installation location and then copy the two files IlluToQueue.aip and productp.ini to your local machine and place it into you Illustrator plugins directory.eg. C:\Program Files\Adobe\Adobe Illustrator CS3\Plug-insThis will add the buttons to the File menu next time you start IllustratorWhen you first use the buttons, use the browse button and browse again across the network and select the DTG Rip Pro C5 installation folder and select OK.You should then be able to use the Send To... buttons to send jobs to the remote DTG Rip Pro C5 from Illustrator.



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Chapter 8

Print Modes

Print Mode Introduction

About Print ModesEach DTG Rip Pro C5 Print Mode has been painstakingly crafted to obtain high quality output that takes into account the absorbency characteristics of the given media, so as to avoid under-inking conditions (i.e., pin-holing) and over-inking conditions (i.e., bleeding). As such, the expectation is that reliable reproduction will be obtained from your given model of Epson printer, per version of DTG Rip Pro C5. The information outlined in this chapter is based on a general Garment printer.

Types of Print ModesThere are two basic modes for printing: CMYK and Underbase.

cmykCMYK Print Modes are used for the color pass printing, these Print Modes are designed to lay down highly accurate colors, reproduce an extremely detailed image and allows you to utilize a higher dpi (up to 1440 x 1440) to ensure the highest print quality possible.

unDerBaseUnderbase Print Modes are designed for printing a white Underbase. An underbase is needed to print vibrant images on dark garments, but there are different settings that will effect the amount of white being printed. You will also need a different amout of underbase depending upon the color of the shirt. For example a light colored shirt will need less white ink than a black shirt. Higher resolution underbase modes will put down more white ink than lower resolution modes.


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high sPeeD (hs)High Speed Print Modes are marked with an HS at the end of the Print Mode name. If selecting a High Speed Print Mode, your image will print out, virtually twice as fast. High Speed Print Modes use Bi-directional data meaning that the print head prints in both passes. Other print modes only print in one direction.

Because of the head height from the garment, bi-directional prints will never be as crisp or hold fine detail as well as uni-directional print modes.

2 PassThe 2 Pass Print Modes are designed to be printed using two passes of the printer (they do not automatically print two passes and you must set this separately in the Import Options in Queue properties or when you import a transparency job, set the color passes = 2).

2 Pass printing can introduce registration problems.

aPPlying a Print moDe to a JoBYou setup the print mode for the color pass in the General tab of the Queue or Job properties,

Right-click the job and choose Properties.

The Job Ticket Properties dialog will open.

On the General tab, note the Print Mode field.

Next to the Print Mode field, click the ellipsis button.

The available Print Modes are categorized and named according to media, print resolution, ink density, halftone frequency, and ink set. You can also quick-select these with the drop-down arrow.

The underbase print mode (if you are using an underbase) can be set changed at the same time. But you must have setup the job at import time to use an underbase.


Chapter 8 - Print Modes

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manage Print moDesIn the Printers menu is a manage print mode option that will take you to the print mode manager dialog. You can delete, copy, rename and edit print modes. The last two options are for importing and exporting print modes to share between other systems.

coPying a Print moDeIf you want to edit a setting, its a good idea to make a copy and work on a copy of a print mode rather than change the original.

1. From the Printers menu, choose Manage Print Modes to open the Print Mode Manager dialog.

2. From the drop-list, choose the printer model. The Print Modes for that printer will then be listed.

3. Click the Print Mode, such that the name is highlighted.

4. Along the top of the Print Mode Manager dialog, click the Copy Print Mode button.

5. When prompted, type a meaningful name for the copy.

eDiting a Print moDe

1. From the Printers menu, choose Manage Print Modes to open the Print Mode Manager dialog.

2. From the drop-list, choose the printer model. The Print Modes for that printer will then be listed.

3. Click the Print Mode, such that the name is highlighted.

4. Along the top of the Print Mode Manager dialog, click the Edit Print Mode button.

5. The Properties dialog for the Print Mode will open (see Print modes settings).

setting the Default Print moDe Within a QueueThe default print modes and pass can be setup in a queue properties, see chapter 5 - setting up a queue for details on configuring a queue for its default print mode and underbase print mode as well as passes.



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ProtecteD Queue moDe

` On the Queue tab, Protected mode causes all jobs received by that queue to use the Print Mode that is set within that queue.

` For example, if you have a specific media loaded into the printer, then you likewise know the precise Print Mode that should be used with that media.

` For a designer that does not know what media is being used, their choice of Print Mode will be

ignored in favor of the Print Mode that you know to be correct.

overriDing the Print moDe setting of a Print JoBWhen a print job is in the queue and not processed (open page state), its Print Mode properties can be edited prior to print. These edits will apply only to the given job without changing the original Print Mode.You can also make these changes at the Queue level, in Queue properties and these will be applied to all jobs.

In the DTG Rip Pro C5 Queue window, click the Stop Queue button. This will cause new print jobs to be held pending.

Print a job to the DTG Rip Pro C5 Queue window.

The print job will now be listed in the Queue window.

Right-click the print job and choose Properties.

The Job Ticket Properties dialog will open.

Any changes to these dialog settings will override the Print Mode for this job.

Print modes settingsThe print mode settings can be changed at several levels, in the Print mode manager (or a permanent change to the print mode), in Queue properties so they get applied to all “new” jobs as they arrive or on individual job properties.The following is an explaination of the print mode settings which are the same in all cases.

color aDJustment (shaDoWs, miDtones anD highlights)The CMYK Color Adjustments tab adjusts the color levels of the print job. These adjustments are typically required to help linearize the colors before the ICC profile is created. Any further adjustment will typically create color distortions.



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You have two modes: By Levels and By Density, if you want to adjust the colors you will probably find it easier to use the By Levels mode and Select Append to so as to work with existing color Adjustment (this only works in the Queue properties or Job properties), In the Manage print mode this will always be used as Override.

by levels

The Shadows Slider adjusts the black point, which is the lower end of the curve. Increasing the Shadows value causes the darkest parts of the print to be recognized as pure black, which also causes the darkest details to be lost in the shadows.The Midtones Slider adjusts the gamma curve, which affects the midtones without changing the black and white points (the lower and upper ends of the curve, respectively). Raising the midtone of a color plane results in laying down less ink on the media for that color.The Highlights Slider adjusts the white point, which is the upper end of the curve.Lowering the Highlights value causes the lightest parts of the print to be recognized as pure white, which causes the lightest details to be lost in the highlights.

density curve

The Density Curve is used to set values for each color plane by percentageThis curve is normally created by to using a photospectrometer as part of creating a print mode and ICC profile.



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seParation curvesSome printers are capable of printing a wider range of color hues for cyan, magenta and black, by mixing inks of the same hue together. For example, a printer might use two inks, cyan and light cyan, or three inks, light, medium, and dark black. By using two or three different inks of cyan, and mixing them together, the color is adjusted to give the maximum range of color density. For these printers, the color calibration is adjusted automatically so that the correct amount of ink is used for each color plane, for example cyan and light cyan.For this example, the default print mode settings are shown for the selected printer. The straight line on the graph represents cyan, while the curved line represents light cyan. The percentages of cyan ink are shown in the Curve data section.

` The x axis (horizontal line) represents the percentage of ink input into the curve data (for example, to get 50% cyan).

` The y axis (vertical line) represents the percentage of ink output from the particular printer in order to get the ink density requested through the curve data input.

` The top right corner of the graph represents 0, 0 where no ink has been input or output.

` The bottom left corner of the graph represents 100,100 where maximum ink has been output.

NOTE: Changing the separation curves will invalidate the color adjustment settings for the corresponding curves. The color adjustment settings will likely require adjusting following any changes to the separation curves.



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max ink

ink voluMe adJustMents

The ink volume is the physical quantity of ink that is applied when printing, which is regulated by the MaxInk setting within the print mode. Each print mode is assigned a MaxInk setting that is appropriate for the inks and media that the print mode was designed for. Sometimes the MaxInk settings need to be adjusted when the print mode is considered a “close” match for a substitute media. For example, a print mode for glossy white media (from one manufacturer) can be sometimes be appropriate for glossy white media (from another manufacturer). In such a case, the Max Ink setting would be adjusted to compensate for the slightly different absorbency of the substitute media.

` The Maximum Ink Level setting is the target ink volume that will be used when ink volume needs to be reduced.

` The Blend In Ink settings (From, To) are the range of inks for which the Max Ink setting will be enforced. If the volume of ink falls within this range, then the volume will be adjusted to below the Maximum Ink Level. Though the ink volume is reduced, the proportion of blended inks will be maintained to avoid harsh gradient transitions.

` The graph (within the dialog) depicts the Maximum Ink Level and Blend In Ink settings. The horizontal axis represents the Total Ink Volume Requested, and the vertical axis represents the Total Ink Volume Delivered.

` For the range of the graph that falls within the Blend In Ink bounds, note that the graph typically becomes a horizontal line to indicate how ink volume will be attenuated to the Maximum Ink Level.

Note that the graph has adjustment handles that can also be used to modify the Max Ink settings.



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icc ProfilesThe ICC Profile tab indicates the color profiles used in the RIP process. During the RIP process, the input and output profiles are used to preserve color quality between the original design and the resulting print.

` The input profiles represent the colors as seen when displaying the design on a monitor.

` The output profile represents the colors that the printer is capable of reproducing.

Its a good idea to configure the input profiles in the Queue Properties to match the working space of the graphics programs you use to do the designs with. See chapter 7 Application printing.

Printer oPtions

The Printer Options tab provides access to printer-specific options within the print mode. These printer-specific options are defined within the print mode, such as plane order, resolution, etc. Please note that these options vary according to the printer model. For more information about these settings, please consult the operator manual that was provided with the printer.



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halftoneThe halftone allows you to configure a print mode to print using PostScript halftones. Halftones is a type of screening used when printing typically used by screen printers.For most users you will not want to use halftones as the output doesnt look as good as with the alternative stochastic screening used by DTG Rip Pro C5. However if you want to emulate what a print might look like when screen printed then you can enable halftones and can configure the halftone settings to match the screen print settings.

image aDJustmentsThe Image Adjustment tab provides some additional controls for improving the image quality of the printed output.

iMage saMPling

The Image Sampling slider is used to upsample images, such that their resolution meets a minimum percentage of the printer resolution (i.e., the resolution set in the print mode). For example:

a) Suppose that the Image Sampling slider is set to 10%.

b) If the printer resolution is set at 720 dpi, then 10% of 720 is 72 dpi.

c) So for an image of less than 72 dpi, it will be automatically upsampled to 72 dpi before printing.

d) If an image were already 72 dpi or more, then no upsampling will be performed for that image.

For designs that contain two-or-more images of varying resolutions, the Image Sampling slider is a convenient means of automatically enforcing a minimum image resolution. However, note that the Image Sampling slider is capped at 40% to avoid losing image definition (i.e., upsampling by an excessive amount risks losing fine detail within the image).Though upsampling images will require more processing time, the trade-off is greater uniformity in print quality.

sharPen / blur

The job may be set to either Sharpen or Blur the printed images.

` The Sharpen setting is useful to compensate for devices that otherwise produce mediocre output.

` The Blur setting is useful as a means of creating the effect of a painted image.



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iMage saturation

The saturation is the colourfulness of an area in consideration of its brightness level. For example, as a colour falls under increasing levels of shadow, the colour appears darker, even though its saturation remains constant.The Image Saturation slider is used to create an artistic touch. As with the tonal settings, the saturation may be applied to each colour plane separately. In general:

` Increasing the Saturation produces a more colourful print.

` Decreasing the Saturation produces a more grayscale print.

variaBle Dot setuPThe variable dot setup allows full control over small, medium and large dot usage on variable dot printers such as Epson-based machines.You can set the threshold of where the small medium and large dots are used through out the color range. These are setup as part of the creation of the print mode and are very important to making the ICC profile work correctly and color matching.If you make changes in this area, you typically will need to recreate the ICC profile.

criteraThe critera configures the setting used in the print mode which you can use later to select the print mode, you can select print modes by different criteria.



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Chapter 9DTG Rip Pro C5 Interface Options

General Interface SettingsFrom the Tools Pull-down Menu, choose Options and then click the General tab.The General tab provides basic controls for customizing the DTG Rip Pro C5 Window:


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show sPlash screen

When launching the DTG Rip Pro C5 Window, this checkbox controls whether the DTG Rip Pro C5 Window splash screen will be displayed.

always on toP

If this checkbox is ticked (ON), then the DTG Rip Pro C5 Window window will always remain in the foreground “above” other windows.

show advanced settings

Tick this checkbox (ON) to enable advanced control tabs in both the Queue Properties dialog, and Job Ticket Properties dialog.

autoMatically track iteMs

If this checkbox is ticked (ON), then selecting a job in the active list or archive list will display details about that job in the Media Settings pane. When OFF, it is necessary to select a job in the Preview Pane in order to display such details.

allow selection oF windows Ports

If this checkbox is ticked (ON), then all the Windows printer ports will be available as output ports in Manage Queues and the Direct to port feature.

select Pages when iMPorting MultiPle Page Job

Choose pages when importing a multiple page job. For example, if a multiple page PDF document is received, then the Page Manager will provide options for previewing and selecting which pages to import.

set disPlay unit

Choose the unit of measurement that will be used throughout the DTG Rip Pro C5 Window.

set deciMal Places

Choose the precision of measurements used in DTG Rip Pro C5 Window.

reset hidden dialogs

The DTG Rip Pro C5 Window uses warning dialogs to confirm whether a given action should proceed. Such warning dialogs have a checkbox that can be checked to prevent that warning dialog from reoccurring. However, if there is a new user that is learning how to use the DTG Rip Pro C5 Window, then click the Reset All button to force all dialogs to be shown again. Alternatively, click Advanced to select which warning dialogs to show.


Chapter 9 - DTG Rip Pro C5 Interface Options

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RIP System SettingsFrom the Tools menu, choose Options and then click the RIP tab.The RIP Settings are used to specify the resources that are available for spooling (rasterizing or RIP’ing) print jobs. These controls will directly influence the workstation that is performing the RIP calculations.

riP systeM location

The RIP System Folder field explicitly states the directory to which the DTG Rip Pro C5 Window RIP has been installed. This information is provided to help CADlink Tech Support diagnose issues quickly.



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riP MeMory allocation

Memory refers to the maximum amount of workstation memory (RAM) that may be used by the queue when creating a spool file. If more than this limit is required, then Virtual Memory (VM) will be used. Virtual Memory refers to hard drive space that is used to supplement RAM. Virtual Memory is used to effectively provide applications with more RAM than the workstation has installed. However, accessing hard drive space is much slower than real memory.

riP Priority level

All software processes have a Priority Level that determines how the workstation processing time is shared among the processes (different software applications). Normally, processes are assigned equal priority levels by default, but modifying the priority of individual processes is acceptable where this improves overall workstation performance.If the RIP Priority Level is increased, then print jobs will be processed faster, though this will be to the detriment of all other software processes that are running on the workstation. Other processes will simply require more time in order to complete their operations.Conversely, if the RIP Priority Level is decreased, then print jobs will require more time to complete.

Processing SettingsFrom the Tools menu, choose Options and then click the Processing tab.

concurrent riP oPerations

Though the queue can spool a print job quickly, there is still time required to send the spool data to the printer (say over a network). In addition, the printer has a physical limit with respect to how quickly ink can be laid upon the media.Instead of waiting idle for a spool file to be completely received by the printer, the queue can begin creating spool files for subsequent print jobs concurrently. The Maximum number of concurrent RIPs limits the number of spool files that can be compiled in advance of the job that is currently being spooled and number of jobs that can be printed at the same time.



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If you find that you are waiting after a job has completed printing for the next job to be processed increase this to 2, if you are using mutiple devices then you can increase by even more.

Note: If you set this to high, you will have to many RIPs running at once and your system will run out of resources (memory, processor power) and your machine will run slower.

Preview Options

From the Tools menu, choose Options and then click the Preview Options tab.By default, when a new job is received by the DTG Rip Pro C5 Window, its name is listed in the Active List of jobs, a thumbnail image of the job is shown next to its name, and a thumbnail preview of the job is shown in the Preview Pane. Typically, these thumbnail previews are of medium quality, though the preview quality can be increased using the Preview Options.

generate thuMbnail Previews

Clearing this checkbox (OFF) will prevent thumbnail previews from being automatically created. However, previews can be manually created by right-clicking the given job and choosing Jobs menu >> Generate Preview Image.

Preview Quality

Adjusts the screen resolution of the generated preview. Higher quality will require the greatest amount of time in generating the preview.

gaMMa adJustMent

Adjusts the relative brightness of the generated preview.

Preview iMage bits Per Pixel

Limits the number of color shades that can be assigned to a given pixel. Choosing 1 bit per pixel will create preview colors that appear blotchy.



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liMit nuMber oF Previews

By default, when multiple jobs are received at the same time, thumbnail previews will be methodically generated one-by-one. Use the slider to increase the number of previews that are generated in parallel.

Advanced RIP Settings

PerformanceFrom the Queue menu, choose Properties and click the Performance tab.For most cases, the Resolution Reduction slider should be OFF. The Resolution Reduction slider is used to reduce the resolution of the data being spooled, thereby reducing the size of the required spool data. For text and line art, it is likely that half of the resolution data can be discarded without impacting the appearance of the printed output.However, avoid reducing the resolution with images (i.e., gradients that utilize halftones), since the quality can deteriorate quickly.If the Intelligent Resolution Reduction checkbox is ticked, then the Resolution Reduction feature will be applied automatically using a sophisticated set of criteria.



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Chapter 10

Managing DevicesManage Printers

In the Printers - Manage Printers menu, you can add additional printer support to DTG Rip Pro C5. You can then setup new Queues for these printers.

Use the + key to add a new printer (See chapter 3 Setting Up DTG Rip Pro C5 for more information on the following steps as it adds the printer).The Software Developer maintains all the printer drivers online and updates them frequently with new print modes. By selecting a printer in the Manage Printers dialog and clicking on the “check for online updates” menu button, your DTG Rip Pro C5 Queue will automatically update your printer driver for you if you are connected to the Internet.


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Printer StatusFor most Epson-based printers (and some other manufacturers) you can get printer information and perform other printer specific features such as nozzle checks.

1. Go to the Queue - Manage Queues and click on the ellipsis by the printer name.

2. The printer must be on and connected for this to work.

3. DTG Rip Pro C5 will query the printer and display the current remaining Ink volume (or how the printer sees the chips on the cartridges) and provide additional buttons for extra functions such as nozzle checks and head cleans.

4. You can scroll down for additional button such as power cleans that are not available in the normal Epson driver.


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Chapter 11

Troubleshooting

Printing a Test PageUnder the Printers menu, choose Print Test Page.The Print Test Page dialog provides several types of target charts for testing your printer output. More than one test page can be printed at a time. Check each test page that is required and then click OK.

If you have any problems printing, print a test page and see if that works as a first step.

Quick Print testOne or more of the charts from the Print Test Page dialog can be designated for the Quick Print Test. The charts are selected as follows:

Under the Printers menu, choose Print Test Page.

Select each chart that should be part of the test (Use [Shift] and [Ctrl] to select multiple charts).

Tick the “Use current selection for Quick Print Test” checkbox.

Click OK.

Print test Page oPtionsFrom the Printers menu, choose Print Test Page to print the selected charts.

test Page

This Test Page is specifically designed to help recognize changes due to tonal adjustments. For example, the individual tints can be checked by referring to the tint percentage boxes, whereas the overall balance is checked by looking at the color graduation. For advice concerning how to interpret this test page, please refer to the Color Adjustments settings that are available through the Queue Properties.


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ink liMit target

The Ink Limit Target is primarily used by the Advanced Calibration Wizard in Signlab to determine a good “starting point” with respect to ink limit settings when creating a new media profile.

You can use it to see how your current print mode is performing in holding details in shadow areas and to judge the amount of bleed you are getting when using different garments.Based on this you may want to adjust your Max ink in the print mode.

Max ink Page

The Max Ink Page is used to help identify the best Max Ink setting for your printer. By comparing this chart when printed at different Max Ink levels, the optimum Max Ink can be determined simply by choosing the chart that looks best for the given media. This choice is based entirely upon your own judgment and preference. Using this and the Ink Limit chart is a good combination for test Max ink.

cMyk test Page

The CMYK Test Page is a SWOP-based all CMYK file for testing CMYK output.The gradient bars along the bottom are a useful indicator of problems in grayscale gradient (should be uniform).

` For the various images, there are many fine details that can become blurred if there is not enough ink being laid down.

` Likewise, the image colors are used to confirm that good saturated red, orange and yellow are being produced.

agFa it8 target

The Agfa IT8 Target is a legacy target for internal use by developer Tech Support. The original use of this target was to produce ICM files. In troubleshooting output, developer Tech Support may request that you print this test page.


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ProFile test chart

The Profile Test Chart is recommended for testing your media profiles (i.e. print modes).

` The gradient bars along the bottom are a useful indicator of problems in grayscale gradient. The gradients should remain uniform.

` For the various images, there are many fine details that can become blurred if there is not enough ink being laid down.

` Likewise, the image colors are used to confirm that good saturated red, orange and yellow are being produced.

ProFile test chart extended

The Profile Test Chart Extended includes the Profile Test Chart and additional testing sections, as follows:

` A selection of PANTONE® color swatches.

` A collection of progressively smaller sentences, which are used to confirm that small text details are not being lost.

` A grayscale image of a watch, which is used to verify that details are not becoming blurred.

` Several spiral patterns that are part of a line test to verify that line fragments are not being created.

Output SpeedDTG Rip Pro C5 will RIP your whole file before starting to print, depending upon the speed of your computer and the amount of memory as well as the actual complexity of the job it might take a few seconds or a few minutes. But because the whole job has been completely processed DTG Rip Pro C5 will guarentee to run the printer at its full-rated print speed.If the printer does slow down during printing, it is therefore most likely that its a mechanical issue with the printer and not the software. For example Epson monitors the print head temperature and when the print head gets too hot (which does occur sometimes at high resolution such as 1440x720 and 1440x1440), it slows down the printing speed.You can always print to File and use the Direct to Port feature, which will just send the print data with no Queue/RIP processing and/or use a windows port at the same time to completely eliminate DTG Rip Pro C5 if you need to prove to yourself a slow down is printer or software.If you do find that you are waiting for the next job to be Ripped after the last job has completed printing. You can increase the number of processes, so that you can RIP the next job while printing the first job. See chaper 9 DTG Rip Pro C5 Settings and Processing tab



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Printing Direct To PortUnder the Tools menu, selecting Direct To Port will open a Send to Port dialog. Image files can be drag-and-dropped into this window to initiate a print job. The job will bypass the queue and be sent directly to whichever port is selected without any processing.

Drag and Drop Files Here

This is used for diagnostics, you would configure a queue to print to File in the Manage Queues dialog. This will make a printer specific output file, this file can then be used with the Direct To Port to send the print data directly with no other DTG Rip Pro C5 processing.From the drop-list, select the port where the print jobs will be sent. To the right of the drop-list, click the button to edit the port settings.Using the Direct To Port feature a job can be tested on another machine to prove if a problem is a printer issues or a software problem.

Windows PortsBy default the Windows printer ports are hidden, this is because DTG Rip Pro C5 is much better at managing print jobs than the generic WIndows spooler system. DTG Rip Pro C5 communicates directly with the Epson USB device drivers and also TCP/IP devices and other printers and this ensures faster printing, more reliable canceling of jobs and generally a more trouble free product.If you ever want to use Windows ports (even if its for just diagnostics) such as with the Direct to Port feature, you can enable them in the Tools - Options menu allow selection oF windows Ports. If you select a Windows port in the Direct to Port feature and send a print file, then the whole process of sending the data is handed by the Windows spooler. You can use this to eliminate/isolate comminications issues between DTG Rip Pro C5 and your printing device.

LogsDTG Rip Pro C5 creates a series of logs for diagnostics of problems, do not worry if you don’t understand the contents of these logs. They are meant to be read by the Developer’s technical support staff and help us to work out different problems you might be having.All the Log files can be saved, printed or sent directly via e-mail to Developer technical support.Whenever reporting a problem, please try and provide the log files as this will greatly speed up the ability for technical support to find the problem.



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Queue logIn Queue properties is a Log tab and this will display the Queue log. The Queue log is the highest level of logging. It consists of message about the Queue starting, devices being added and a very basic overview of the jobs and pages being processed and printed.

Page logThe Page log is only created once the page/job has been Ripped (closed page state). It is accessed by either going to the Page properties or for single processed jobs going to the properties for the page output. It gives an overview of the jobs being Ripped but contains the detailed information on the actual printing (sending) of the print data to the printer.This is an essential log if you have a problem during the actual printing process, such as the printer stops printing before the end.

Job logThe Job log is only created once the job has been Ripped (close page state). Iti s accessed by going to the job properties (or properties for page content). It contains the full log of the RIP process from the Interpreters and any errors as well as the ICC processing information and dot count information used in costing.For any jobs that error during the RIP process or if the print data looks incorrect, this information is essential.

Preview logThe Preview log is found before the job is Ripped and its still in its open page state. It is found in the Job properties and contains information about the job as its processed for creating a preview. If a job errors when its added to DTG Rip Pro C5 or the preview is incorrect. Then this log should be provide to technical support.

Frequent Troubleshooting Topicstest files

If you are having any problems, print the Test page and see if that works. This will be the first thing you

will be asked about if making a technical support call.

check your usB connectionsMost problems occur due to poor USB connections. DTG Rip Pro C5 communicates at high speed using USB 2.0 specification with Epson printers. If you have a long cable (the maximum should be 3 meters with a high quality cable) then this will cause communication issues even if it is very intermittent.Powered USB can be used to extend the distance but can cause other issues, especially if other devices are connected. Its recommended not to use any additional USB hubs between the computer and printer connection.USB is a bus-based communication system, so while it is very fast (USB 2.0 is meant to be capable of 480mbps), the master-slave relationship means that its generally much slower (often only 10MB/sec). If you have an external hard disc attached to the same bus this can cause performance and even time out



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issues. Try and avoid adding additional devices, expecially external hard drives and memory sticks to the same USB bus that you are using to connect the printer.Note: Most computers that have 4 or 8 USB connections, actuall have only 1 or 2 USB buses and the connections on the computer share the BUS internally.Some USB devices are powered by the USB bus connection (from the computer), memory sticks and dongles are common examples. When laptops are not connected to AC power, they use power-saving features that reduces the amount of power on the USB hub. This can cause problems for memory sticks and other devices to work properly. While the printer doesnt get its power from the USB bus, it does effect the quality of the signal. If you are running from a laptop, always have it connected to the AC power supply.Always use a high quality cable.

reinstall the control Panel Printer driver iF you are using thisOpen DTG Rip Pro C5 and go to Printers > Manage Printers. Uncheck the box under the Control Panel for the Fast Garment printer and click Close. Return to the Manage Printers screen and check the box under the Control Panel for the Fast Garment printer. Click Close.This will reinstall the control panel driver.

other dongle or riP conFlictsIf there is an issue with the dongle, then DTG Rip Pro C5 will not start.If you are printing to other devices that use a dongle, or if you have another RIP installed for other applications, there may be conflicts. Try removing other dongles or disabling other RIPs before printing. This should resolve any conflicts.

check your coMPuter’s resourcesMake sure you have enough RAM to run DTG Rip Pro C5. The minimum System Requirements are listed in the beginning of this Manual. If you find that jobs are taking too long to process or just not processing at all, you may have to add RAM to your PC.

start dtg riP Pro c5 beFore sending a Print JobYou need to start DTG Rip Pro C5 before sending a print job. Tthe Send To... plugins for Corel, Illustrator and PhotoShop do not automatically start DTG Rip Pro C5.

when all else Fails....Certain devices and computers like to see things turned on in a specific order. Generally, you should turn the printer ON before you boot your computer. TURN EVERYTHING OFF AND UNPLUG EVERYTHING FROM THE WALL OUTLET. Computers and printers still receive current when they are shut off, but unplugging them prevents any current from reaching them. As a last resort, this should clear out any “bugs” still left.



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randoM thin horiZontal lines through iMage

-or- ink lines aPPear on the outside oF the iMageIn this case, the prints show random thin HORIZONTAL lines through image or INK lines appear on the outside of the image. In 90% of these cases, the clear horizontal lines are caused by clogged nozzles on the printer. Try the following steps to see if you can get rid of the clear lines.

` Run 4 or 5 head cleanings and do a test print to see if the problem is fixed.

` If the horizontal lines remain, print a Nozzle Check on film using the regular Epson driver or from the printer status (see chapter 10: Managing Devices). Check to see if there are any breaks in any of the inks.

` If you did not notice any breaks in the pattern created by a Nozzle Check, create a small, solid box of that color in a graphics program, like Photoshop and try printing it.

` Print this box on film through DTG Rip Pro C5. If you still notice horizontal lines, run 3-4 more head cleanings and print out the box again on film. If the clear lines improve, try running more head cleanings until the problem is resolved.

` If the clear lines remain visibly unchanged when the second box is printed, the nozzles are clogged with dust/debris/dry ink. You will need to have your printer professionally cleaned by an Authorized Repair Technician. They may be able to clean the nozzles or they may have to replace the print head. When they replace the print head, it replaces the nozzles on the printer.

can’t Find send to... buttons For corel, illustrator or PhotoshoPIf the Send To... buttons do not appear in your version of Corel, Illustrator or PhotoShop, follow Chapter 7 - Application Printing and see the section on Adding Send To... buttons to remote computers.If you have very old versions of Corel, Illustrator or PhotoShop, it may be the installation path has changed, or if its foreign langauge the installation folder may not be recognised by the installer.If you are running 64 bit versions of these programs, choose to run the 32-bit versions instead.They are available under Start>All Programs.We have not been able to test with every version of these programs and some older versions may not support these plugins.

can’t Find riP driver or access advanced Print oPtionsOpen the DTG Rip Pro C5 program. In the toolbar, go to Printers > Manage Printers.In this window, ensure the box for your printer underneath the heading Control Panel is checked. This will put your RIP driver into your control panel so you can access the advanced printer options through your graphics program. Click on Ok. You should now have the RIP driver available.



dtg rip pro c5 manual

Documents

printer queue

pro c5 user manual version

production queue

pro c5dtg

printer installation

output options

queue wizard intro

printer driver selection