Use this guide to install CalderaRIP from start to finish. It includes links to related articles for detailed instructions.
Prerequisites
Before you install the software, confirm the following:
- Valid license: You must have a valid CalderaRIP license.
- Device compatibility: Your printer, cutter, or other device must be supported.
- Minimum hardware requirements: Your system must meet the minimum hardware specifications.
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Compatible operating system: Use a supported OS (macOS or Ubuntu Linux).
Tips & tricks
If you are a Windows user, you can still use the software by either creating a dedicated Ubuntu Linux partition on your computer (dual boot) or running it in a virtual machine. Next:
- Download the Ubuntu Linux image file from the official Ubuntu website.
- Follow our installation guide: How to install Ubuntu Linux?
Installation Steps
1. Create a Caldera account
Go to Caldera's customer portal WorkSpace and complete the account creation form (need help with this? Click here).
You will receive an activation email shortly after.
2. Download and Install CalderaDock
CalderaDock is the central tool for managing licenses and installing all Caldera products.
Download the latest version of CalderaDock from the main dashboard in WorkSpace, then install it on your computer (need help with this? Click here).
3. Activate a License or Request a Free Trial
In CalderaDock, complete one of the following:
- Activate your product license, or
- Request a Free Trial if no license is active.
4. Download and Install CalderaRIP
Open the Home tab in CalderaDock. When a valid license is active, CalderaDock automatically displays the Install button for CalderaRIP:
Click Install to download and install the latest version of CalderaRIP, then follow the on-screen instructions:
- Confirm that your license is compatible with this version.
- After the download completes, enter your computer credentials to authorize the installation.
- When installation is complete, a confirmation message appears and prompts you to restart your system.
Alternative: Download Previous Versions from WorkSpace
If needed, you can download previous versions from WorkSpace > Other Downloads. Find the app version you want to install and choose an installer type:
- Light version (Recommended): Includes only the CalderaRIP package. Printer drivers can be downloaded and installed separately after the RIP installation.
- Full version: Includes both the CalderaRIP package and printer drivers, allowing printer installation during setup.
Open the installer file and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
OS-Specific Considerations
Depending on your operating system, one additional step is required before or after installation:
-
macOS:
- Because CalderaRIP is Unix-based, it uses XQuartz to provide a graphical user interface on macOS. XQuartz is automatically installed with CalderaRIP on macOS.
- Visit the dedicated article to learn how to install and grant the required permissions to the software.
-
Ubuntu Linux:
- Visit the dedicated section to learn how to mount and install the software.
5. Install and Configure your Printer
Info
Previously, printer access was based on license tiers defined by printer size and performance (Wide, Large, Grand A, Grand B, High Performance). Optional add-ons were also available.
Currently, printer installation rights depend on your license type (subscription or perpetual with CalderaCare). The optional add-ons are included for all subscription licenses.
Check the compatibility table to confirm that your printer is covered by your license.
For setup, refer to the full printer installation and configuration guide, or watch the video tutorial:
Printer Considerations
- Since license activation, you can assign a printer driver. If you want to modify this setup or add additional printer drivers, please refer to this article.
- Printer configuration steps may vary depending on the printer connection type.
6. Install and Configure your Cutter
Info
In the past, different cutting devices required separate licenses: CutServer for roll-to-roll cutters, GrandCut (A or B) for flatbed cutters, and a cut option for trimmers. This resulted in different installation methods depending on the device.
Today, annual subscribers and perpetual license holders with CalderaCare can use any CalderaRIP‑supported cutting device without an additional license.
6.1 Roll-to-Roll Cutters
Read the complete guide or watch the video:
6.2 Flatbed Cutters
Read the complete guide or watch the video:
7. Launch CalderaRIP
When you open CalderaRIP for the first time, a few pop-ups will help you complete the initial setup.
For first-time installations, European users will see an End User License Agreement (EULA) that must be accepted before using the software:
You will also be asked to choose a color theme, your preferred measurement units, and the default color profile:
If you are installing a new version over an existing one, a pop-up will confirm that the installation has been updated and let you choose whether to keep your current settings (recommended) or reload them:
Warning
Reloading settings may remove custom Application Bar customizations, such as icon size and duplicated modules.
For help exploring the modules, see: First use of CalderaRIP
Additional Help
Caldera’s HelpDesk includes:
- Two glossaries
- A video center
- Several "Troubleshooting" sections, where you can read about technical problems that our support team has previously solved
If you cannot find the information you need, contact the Caldera Support team. To learn the best way to reach them, refer to this article (with video).