CalderaRIP is optimized for PDF workflows as its main RIP engine is the Adobe PDF Print Engine (APPE). That is why in this article we give you general recommendations for PDF workflows that will lead you to the best production results.
Size
You should set up files at 100% size or a size proportional to the final size.
Good to know
Large files (e.g. .PSB files) can be loaded into CalderaRIP. However, we recommend that you change their size in the Raster to PDF area (FileMan > Setup button > Processing tab) to no more than 2000 MB. This will avoid image processing issues, which can eventually lead to printing issues.
You might want to read:
- Fileman module (dedicated section)
- Raster to PDF (troubleshooting article)
Fonts
If fonts are not outlined be sure to include any fonts used in the digital file.
Resolution
Raster images should be between 72-200 ppi, depending on viewing distance. The greater the viewing distance the lower the ppi needed.
- For prints viewed at 5 feet or less an image of 150-200 ppi is needed.
- For prints viewed greater than 5 feet a resolution of 100-150 ppi is needed.
- For prints viewed at a very far distance, a resolution of 72 ppi is needed.
Support Files
Link and supply all support files used in the digital file. Please avoid embedding files.
Color
Files can be loaded to CalderaRIP as either RGB or CMYK, just make sure to assign the color profile you're working on to the Adobe output file.
When saving your PDF file in the Adobe software, you want to "Include Tagged Source Profiles". In this way, when you load the image into CalderaRIP the profile is embedded and it will map to the specific color profile ensuring better results. Example on InDesign:
| You might want to read: Color management and PDF/X options for Adobe PDF | |
In CalderaRIP you can see the default color profile settings by going to Special > Color Configuration. There, you want to have "Honor embedded profiles" checked (as CalderaRIP will automatically map to the specific profile that is embedded in the Adobe file).
You can set the default RGB profile and CMYK profile to whatever you're using in Adobe. If there is no embedded profile in your Adobe file, it will default to these color spaces.
Info
Remember, never use your computer monitor as an accurate guide to the final color.
For custom spot color mapping use PDF format, as older file formats like EPS or PS have color limitations.
Color + transparency
Printing files from RGB to CMYK can be problematic with transparency blending spaces, as the RGB data will be converted in the RIP into the CMYK printer device space.
You have two options to avoid this issue:
- Create files in CMYK avoiding the RGB > CMYK blending issue after conversion.
- Leave the file "as is", and enable the simulation profile in CalderaRIP.
How to enable the simulation profile?
In the printer module (driver), the Colors > Color management tab enables the Simulation profile:
Make sure that the simulation profile matches the CMYK input profile settings:
You can leave this as a default setting but make sure that the rendering intent settings match too.