Using a modular approach, PixelBlaster can be tailored and scaled to fit users’ needs in mixed Macintosh or Windows environments. A key feature is its ability to standardize colors based on industry accepted profiles, including GRACoL, ISO, Euroscale, and FOGRA. The advanced color engine allows easy integration of proofing into the production process. To ensure color predictability when not using the CMYK process, PixelBlaster includes an N-Color support feature that enables production of custom ink sets to ensure full spot color profiling within the gamut provided by the selected inks. By accurately predicting the final output, it offers a cost-effective way of eliminating errors and significantly reducing media and ink waste.

PixelBlaster is already being tested by several sign and graphics businesses, including Signs by Tomorrow. “PixelBlaster basically allows us to RIP and print jobs from PDFs faster and at a higher quality, as well as cut them more accurately, than any other software I’ve used in the past,” said Ryan Warner, press operator and design manager at the York, PA SBT franchise. “Not only that, PixelBlaster allows us to print the same file from the same computer on either or both printers, all while operating within the same color space. We can print one portion of a job on our solvent printer and the other on our UV printer, and the colors are identical.”

Shiraz Software

In late 2011, Shiraz Software released version 8 of its RIP Server, Signature, and Focus solutions. Fronted by a sleek, accessible dashboard, the full-scale rebuild of underlying architecture sees the entire Shiraz range updated with faster and smarter RIP functionality, as well as an enhanced customer service module with sophisticated remote access and extended support for machines from several manufacturers. The powerful new RIP Buffering and Hyper RIP features deliver multi-threading in the print queue, allowing multiple jobs to RIP and print while others RIP ahead ready for immediate print. With native support for the latest Windows 7 and Mac OS X Lion operating systems, Shiraz v8 includes a Live Update facility that checks automatically for software upgrades, new media profiles, and performance-enhancing tweaks, installing them with minimal interferences to the software’s operation. Shiraz Server V8, Shiraz’s complete solution for RIP workflow management for environments with multiple users and devices, now includes a HPGL/2 engine to support rendering and printing of vector and raster files. The new engine allows for large-format printing without the need for costly specialist solutions for individual applications. Included in v8 release are the latest printer drivers for all the leading manufacturers, such as the HP Latex L26500 and L28500, Epson R3000, Seiko H2 series, Mutoh ValueJet 1324/1624, and Mimaki UJF3042.

Wasatch Computer Technology

Late last year, Wasatch released SoftRIP Version 6.9, offering speed improvements for users who keep multiple entries in their RIP and print queues, the firm said. A new output column in the queue tracs how many copies of a job have been printed. Also, the barcode-driven, print-and-cut workflow has been enhanced, and an option for users to mirror and rotate their images directly in the print setup screen has been added as well as the ability to add center register marks useful in the production of inkjet separations.

In Q1 2012, Wasatch announced that its SoftRIP is fully certified for the HP Designjet L26500 and L28500 inkjet printers under the HP RIP Certification Program. Testing included printing performance, calibration using embedded spectrophotometer, media flexibility, printer management, job management, and dual-sided printing support. Wasatch Computer Technology has produced a number of imaging configurations for the HP Designjet L26500 and offers imaging configurations produced by HP for the HP Designjet L26500 and L28500.

Also an Epson partner, support for the HP Designjet L26500 is available free of charge with Wasatch SoftRIP and the SoftRIP HP Exclusive Edition. The Designjet L28500 driver is a $500 add on.