Transcript
2 The UltraStream
The UltraStream
Overview This chapter contains a tour of the Indigo UltraStream press and a description of the UltraStream workflow. Welcome to the world of UltraStream , Version 3.0. The UltraStream is a sheet-fed Digital Offset Color press that incorporates the patented ElectroInk liquid ink technology and high-speed electronic imaging to produce fully-finished, high-volume, high-quality color printing jobs. The UltraStream features an intuitive and friendly user interface, provides diagnostic screens that take the guessing out of printing, accepts very large files and simplifies the entire process of archiving.
Indigo’s Digital Offset Color Printing Indigo's electronic printing process, called Digital Offset Color, combines high performance digital imaging technology with the liquid ink offset printing process. The merging of electronic imaging with the properties of liquid ink offset printing combines the flexibility of on-demand electronic printing with the quality of offset printing. As in offset printing, Digital Offset Color printing transfers the inked image from the image carrier to a blanket, and from the blanket to paper. Unlike offset printing, Digital Offset Color printing creates a different image with each revolution — all without the use of film separations or printing plates. The UltraStream comes equipped with an embedded RIP — the Indigo RIP version 2.0 (PostScript level III CPSI). The embedded RIP enables you to process PostScript or PDF format files at your press station. It is fast, has proofing and previewing capabilities, and light editing. It RIPs jobs immediately upon arrival at the station. The UltraStream supports the Indigo proprietary Swift Native Accelerated Personalization (SNAP ) technology. The use of the SNAP technology enables you to print high large database driven personalization jobs without delay.
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
39
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
Overview
UltraStream Specifications Paper size Sheet size
Millimeters
Inches
Minimum
210mm × 297 mm
8.5" × 11"
Maximum
320mm × 464 mm
12" × 18"
Image Area 308 mm × 437 mm Resolution 812 dpi Screen Ruling Sequin — an average of 144 lpi; HDI set 2 — an average of 250 lpi; HDI set 3 — an average of 195 lpi. Printing Rate 4Printing 240 fpm enabling 4000 full color A4 pages per hour. Or 16000 monochrome A4 pages per hour. 2000 full color A4 pages per hour, printing on both sides of the sheet, or 8000 monochrome A4 pages per hour, printing on both sides of the sheet. Color Four process colors (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black). IndiChrome (six color process) is supported, or two additional spot colors. Input Formats PostScript, Portable Document Format (PDF), Encapsulated PostScript ( EPS), Tagged Image Format (TIFF), Joint Photographic Experts Group (JPEG) and Indigo’s proprietary Job Layout format ( JLYT).
40
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The UltraStream
A Tour of the UltraStream The UltraStream is divided into four basic sections — the Front, Rear, paper input side and paper output side. Paper output side Rear
Front
Paper input side
The UltraStream
Figure 2-2
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
41
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
Overview
UltraStream Jobs UltraStream jobs begin at desktop publishing stations unrelated to and often at a distance from the press. There, text and graphics are designed and integrated, flats imposed and PostScript or PDF (Portable Document Format) files created. The PostScript (or PDF) files are then transferred to the system.
Pre-press station Input: text, photos and graphic elements
From pre-press to the UltraStream
UltraStream Input: PostScript or PDF files Output: printed substrate Figure 2-3
The system consists of two subsystems: the Indigo RIP and the UltraStream press. The Indigo RIP software reads the files from the prepress station, converts them to bitmaps, one per separation, and then sends them to the UltraStream for printing.
42
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The UltraStream schematic
Duplex Tray — Buffers sheets between first and second side
Exit Tray — Receives output
BID units — Apply ink to the PIP
PIP Drum — Image
Scorotrons — This is where the PIP is
Writing Head — Transfers the image to the PIP by laser beam
Ink Tanks — Heated inks are stored here
Ink Cans — Concentrated solid inks are stored here
Printing nip — Point of Second Transfer
Impression Drum — Applies counterpressure on printed sheet
ITM Drum — The blanket is located here
Cleaning Station — Cleans the PIP
Paper Feed Unit
The UltraStream
A Look Inside the UltraStream When you look inside the UltraStream, this is what you’ll see:
Figure 2-4
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
43
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The Print Cycle
The Print Cycle There are several stages in the UltraStream print cycle.
Starting-Up A click of the Print button initiates the print cycle. The drums start rotating and the support systems begin to work.
Click on this button to print
UltraStream Control Panel window
Figure 2-5
Charging and Discharging the PIP The scorotron unit electrically charges the PIP (Photo Imaging Plate) as it rotates on the PIP drum. The writing head laser beams selectively discharges the PIP and a latent image is formed on the PIP. Writing Head
Three scorotron units charging the PIP
PIP foil
Charging the PIP
44
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
PIP drum Figure 2-6
The UltraStream
Writing Head
Laser beams (12) selectivly dischrging the PIP PIP drum
Charging the PIP
Figure 2-7
Inking the PIP Binary Ink Developer (BID ) units apply ink on the PIP. Ink is applied only to the discharged areas of the PIP. Ink particles are attracted either to the BID developer drum or to the PIP. The PIP discharged areas, the image areas, attract the ink particles. The PIP charged areas, the non-image areas, repel them. The image on the PIP surface is now inked.
BID unit In k reservior PIP foil
BID developer
BID unit engaged to the PIP
Figure 2-8
The image is now ready to be transferred to the blanket.
Transfer to the Blanket The PIP comes in contact with the ITM drum (intermediate transfer member), which is covered by the blanket. The positively charged blanket attracts the inked image, and the image is transferred from the PIP to the
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
45
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The Print Cycle
blanket (this is the first transfer). Not a trace of residue remains on the PIP.
First transfer — PIP–ITM nip
PIP drum
ITM drum
Blanket
Ink transfer from PIP to blanket
The
ITM
Figure 2-9
blanket is hot and melts the ink particles into a thin, molten film.
Printing the Image With a substrate between them, the Impression drum now presses against the ITM, causing the melted ink image to solidify and adhere to the substrate. PIP drum
Blanket ITM drum Second Transfer — ITM–Impression drums nip
Impression drum
Ink transfer from the blanket to the substrate
Figure 2-10
This process is repeated for each separation (usually four) to form four colors on the printed substrate. During each rotation of the ITM and the impression drums, one color separation is transferred to the substrate. The paper transport system then moves the printed sheet towards the exit conveyor and either feeds in a new sheet. Or, in the case of duplex
46
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The UltraStream
jobs, the system moves the sheet into the duplex tray to turn it for the second side printing.
Exit conveyor Impression drum
Exit tray
Duplex tray
Paper exit system
Figure 2-11
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
47
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
UltraStream Basics
UltraStream Basics Navigating the UltraStream Interface The UltraStream interface is designed with you, the user, in mind. It is friendly and intuitive and fully compatible with the MS Windows NT conventions. If you’re not familiar with Windows NT, that’s okay. You don’t need prior knowledge to operate the UltraStream software, although it might be helpful. The menu bar menus list all the options necessary for easy workflow. Icons are available for all menu options, and you can pick and choose from among them to create your own customized tool bar. Sub-menus are accessible either by clicking the tool bar icon, by accessing the menu option or by clicking the schematic on the relevant subsystem. Menu
Status line
On-line help
Close button
Click here to open another window
Control Panel Interface
Figure 2-12
User Level Different levels of users have different access to UltraStream windows. You have access to all functions that are intended for performance by an operator. This is the default. No password is necessary.
Windows and Sub-windows UltraStream helps you to perform complex procedures in the correct order. When you start a complex procedure, only the window that relates to the first steps of the procedure is accessible. As you progress, additional windows become available.
Wizards UltraStream Wizards cut short the usual input process by giving interactive, step-by-step instructions for complex routines.
48
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The UltraStream
The On Line Help Suite UltraStream is designed to provide you with the optimum in friendly and useful On Line Help. The Help Suite consists of two separate guides — the Operation Guide and the Reference Guide — each of which provides you with a different type of information You can access the relevant On Line Help for any specific Operation window by pressing or the Help button in the specific Operation window.
The Operation Guide The Operation Guide details procedures that you perform while operating and maintaining the UltraStream. You view Operation windows by clicking on Help>Contents >Operation Guide , and choosing the desired procedure. You can also view procedures by clicking on Related Topics while using a Reference screen. You can view illustrations by clicking on words marked as pop ups (green with dotted underline). All Operation Guide screens have a yellow background.
The Reference Guide The Reference Guide provides detailed information on the screens and dialog boxes you will be using in your work with UltraStream. Graphic representations of the screens and dialogs come with descriptive text. When you want information on a specific area of the screen or dialog, you place the mouse on the area and click. A pop-up opens with the information you need. All Reference Guide screens have a white background.
Using Help UltraStream Help is organized much like the table of contents in a book. There are chapters and subsections. The subsection titles appear as a mini button with black text. The mini button indicates that a new list of help titles will open when you click on either the title or button. This is similar to reading a third level of headings within the table of contents of a book. If the topics in a help list appear as green underlined text, the title does not include a more detailed level of contents and clicking on it takes you directly to the topic page.
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
49
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The On Line Help Suite
You get to the UltraStream table of contents by clicking on Help>Menu>Contents in the Control Panel window. The Home icon ( ) at the top of each topic page takes you back to the appropriate table of contents.
Using the Windows Help Topics Dialog Box You can access topic pages from the Help Topics dialog box. Choose the Contents tab and click on Display.
One help topic Several topics on one or more levels — a “book”
An “open book” — topics titles displayed
The Help Topics dialog box
Figure 2-13
To access the Help Topics dialog box: At the top of topic pages, click on the Help Topics button. The table of contents includes all topics as well as titles of all pop-ups. The pop-up information appears as stand-alone topics, i.e., it does not include heading numbers and you cannot use the browse option. The pop-up information enables you to go directly to a definition without reading the entire topic, and also enables you to print pop-up information. The Help Topics dialog box also offers Keyword and Word Search options.
50
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The UltraStream
Reading Procedural Topics Sequentially To browse through the Operation Guide topics in a logical order: Method 1 1. 2.
3. 4.
Open the Operation Home page. Click on the required chapter title. If the chapter contains a more detailed level of contents, click on the subsection that interests you. The topics in this chapter or subsection are green and underlined. Click on the first topic in the list. The topic opens in a separate window beside the contents window. Once you have read this topic, click on the next topic in the list. The new topic replaces the first topic that you selected.
Method 2 1. 2.
Access the topic that interests you. Use the << (previous) and >> (next) buttons at the top of each topic page to view other topics in the chapter.
Topic headings are numbered to help you orient yourself when browsing, and to facilitate reading printed copies of help topics.
Using the Related Topics Options Help enables you to open a related screen topic while you are reading the steps of a procedure. This option allows you to locate icons or fields described in the procedure while the procedure is open before you. You can also open a related operation procedure topic while reading about a screen or dialog box in order to view all steps in a procedure performed using the dialog box or screen.
Related operation procedure and screen
Figure 2-14
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The On Line Help Suite
Printing On Line Help Topics You can print a help topic (but not the information contained in pop-ups that open from it) by clicking the Print button at the top of each topic page. You can print entire Help chapters, including pop-ups, from Help Topics. To print an entire Help chapter, including the pop-up information: 1. 2. 3. 4.
52
Click the Help Topics button at the top of the Topic Page. The Help Topic dialog box opens. If the Contents page is not already on top, click the Contents tab to bring it forward. Select the required chapter by clicking on the chapter title. Click Print. The entire chapter, including pop-up information, is sent to the default printer as defined under Start>Settings >Printers. Each topic is printed on a separate page. The topics are ordered by heading number to help you maintain the information in the proper sequence.
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The UltraStream
The UltraStream Main Windows The Control Panel The Control Panel is the main UltraStream window. It opens automatically whenever you load the UltraStream software. It is from this screen that you control the entire operation of the UltraStream. The control panel consists of: • • • • • • • • • •
A menu bar A user-customized tool bar An error indicator A warning indicator A machine state indicator Print buttons Current print job panel Print mode selector The job manager button The Schematic animated indicator
Error Indicator
Warning Indicator
Machine State Indicator
Control Panel
Schematic Animated Indicator
Print Buttons
Tool Bar
Current Print Job
Print Mode Selector
Copies/Sheets
Job Manager button Figure 2-15
You access Options from the menu bar or tool bar, or by clicking on the appropriate spot on the Schematic drawing.
Menu Bar The Control Panel is designed for ease of use. The main menu bar is divided in to submenus arranged according to subsystems:
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
53
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The UltraStream Main Windows
Customized Tool Bar UltraStream enables you to customize your own tool bar and place it anywhere on the screen. To customize the tool bar go to Options >Customize Tool Bar>Customize...
Error Indicator Click on the Error Indicator icon for a detailed list of press events that includes warning and error messages. The messages are sortable to help you troubleshoot.
Warning Indicator A warning indicator lights up when UltraStream detects a condition that requires your attention. The indicator identifies the system that needs attention and remains lit until the problem is solved.
Machine State Indicator The press goes through different stages as it passes from total stop to full function. Each of these machine stages has a precise name and specific servicing procedures. There are also distinct functions that can be performed while the press is in these various stages. Pay attention to machine state while operating the press since most machine functions are possible only at a defined machine state. Pay particular attention to machine status while servicing the press. Each maintenance procedure details the machine status for the safe performance of that procedure.
Current Print Job The panel displays a number of job properties:
Current Print Job panel
• •
54
Figure 2-16
Job name Number of copies to be printed and number copies printed (the last field can be reset)
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The UltraStream
• • •
Number of sheets in the job Access to job properties, some of which can be changed while the job is being printed The next job to be printed.
Print Buttons You click on these buttons to print, proof and end a job.
Print buttons
Figure 2-17
Print Mode Selector This switch enables you to print jobs uninterruptedly in one continuous session or in steps, one job at a time.
Job Manager Button Gives you access to this frequently used window
.
Schematic Animated Indicator The Schematics window provides access to all subsystems for both diagnostic and adjustment purposes.
Schematic Animated Indicator
Figure 2-18
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
55
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The Schematic Window
The Schematic Window The schematic window is a representation of the UltraStream as it is seen from the front. It appears in several forms on the Control Panel. Each form indicates a different machine status.
Standby status
Schematic Animated Indicators
Print status Figure 2-19
To access the Schematic In the Control Panel window, click the Schematic Animated Indicator. The Schematics window appears with the present status of the press indicated. The subsystems that prevent the press from changing from Standby status to Ready status — this could include missing subsystems or blankets that have not reached working temperature or inks that have not reached working temperature, density or conductivity — are highlighted. A glance at the Schematic window suffices for a quick diagnostic look at the press.
56
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The UltraStream
Cursor The cursor takes two forms when it is placed on the Schematic window — an arrow and a hand. When the cursor is on a non-linked area, it takes the form of an arrow. When it is on a hot- spot it takes the form of a hand. Writing Head
Scorotrons
Cleaning station
PIP drum
BID units
ITM drum
Output Conveyor
Impression drum
Exit Tray
Duplex tray
Ink Cans Imaging Oil reserviore
Ink tanks
The UltraStream schematic
Figure 2-20
To access a subsystem Click on the subsystem in the schematic. A pop-up window opens. Or... Use the tool bar or the Control Panel menu.
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
57
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
Managing Jobs
Managing Jobs As part of your working routine, you will be importing, maintaining, arranging an order for and printing jobs. All these activities are performed by the Job Manager. Jobs are imported into the system and appear in the Job Manager window. You can also import jobs manually, using Import in the Job menu, or use the Indigo RIP hot folders. Some editing is possible when jobs appear in the Job List (see Editing Jobs). The Job Manager is fully automatic. The location of jobs after they have been Loaded or Printed, and job status once a job has reached the top of the Loaded Jobs list are all determined by default. To override the default values, you must assign a specific job definition. Positioning icons
Print Queue — Displays all jobs to be printed, in the order that they will be printed.
Loaded Jobs list — Displays the jobs that are either not ready for printing or that have already been printed
Job Manager window
Job Properties — Displays specific job parameters Figure 2-21
The Job Manager Window To access the Job Manager window: On the Main Control Panel, click on the Job Manager button (it is located at the lower right-hand side of the panel). Or... From the System menu, select Job Manager. There are three sections to the Job Manager window — the Menu Bar, the Print Queue and the Loaded Jobs List. Jobs on the Print Queue are press-ready jobs. They are to be printed in the order they appear in the queue. Jobs on the Loaded Jobs List are jobs that have not yet been 58
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The UltraStream
scheduled for printing. They can be moved to the Print Queue as they are or they can simply remain in the Loaded Jobs List for as long as necessary.
The Positioning Icon Bar The Positioning icon bar in the Job Manager window contains options for repositioning jobs within both the Loaded Jobs list and the Print Queue. It also enables you to move jobs between the two lists. Positioning icons — These enable you to move up and down the queue and between the queue and the list
Positioning Icons
Figure 2-22
The Loaded Jobs List Jobs in the Loaded Jobs list are jobs that are either not ready for printing or that have already been printed. Move these jobs to the Print Queue for proofing or for printing a full run. To move a job to the Print Queue: Drag and drop the job to the Print Queue, or select the job and click the relevant positioning icon. Jobs in the Loaded Jobs list can be sorted according to their properties. To sort jobs: 1. 2.
Click on the property header. Click again to reverse the order. Customize the display information in the Print Queue and Loaded Jobs list by adding or deleting fields.
To customize Job Properties field display: 1. 2.
With the right mouse button, click on any field. A list of additional fields opens. Click on the field of choice. The field is added to the display information.
The Print Queue The Print Queue displays all jobs to be printed, in the order that they will be printed. Sorting of jobs in the Print Queue is impossible since job order reflects printing order.
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
59
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
Managing Jobs
To change the order of the Print Queue From the Queue Menu select Move Up or Move Down in Queue. You can also click the appropriate icon. Or... Drag and drop jobs to change their order in the list.
Retained Jobs
The Retained Jobs window contains jobs that have been marked for deletion (in Job Properties) after a specified time. You can access these jobs for reprinting or exporting (archiving) all the while that they are still on the Retained Jobs list. To access the Retained Jobs list: From Job in the Job Manager window menu bar, select Retain List... Or... Click on the Retained Jobs icon.
Archiving You can archive jobs for later use. The following functions can be performed on one or more jobs concurrently. To export (archive) a job: 1. 2. 3.
Select the relevant job. From the Job Manager window menu bar, select Export. Choose a destination.
To import an archived job: From the Job Manager window menu bar, select Import. Select the required job. The imported job appears in the Loaded Jobs list.
1. 2. 3.
Job Editor The Job Editor enables you to preview a job and make changes to the job before printing. You can use the Job Editor to: • • 60
View a job exactly as it will be printed on the Press (Print Preview) Change the position of items in a job
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The UltraStream
Job Editor window
• • • • • • •
Figure 2-23
Align groups of items Copy and paste items to the same or different job Create/delete spreads, elements or channels in a job Add crop marks to a job Create new jobs using RIPped elements Create a personalization job by inserting a multiple spread job as a channel View the hierarchy of spreads, elements and channels within a job
To access the Job Editor: Select a job and from the Job Manager window, click the Job menu and select Job Editor, or click the Job Editor icon, Or... From the Job Properties window click Job Editor (
).
Hot Folder The Press Hot Folder (c:\Indigo\Press\Input\Lan) enables automation of job management for the following purposes: •
•
Automatic load of image files (JPEG, TIFF and EPS ). Image files that are placed in the Press Hot Folder are automatically loaded into the system as jobs. Once loaded, these jobs display in the Job Manager window. The Press Hot Folder currently supports JPEG , TIFF and EPS file formats. Jobs that are created in this way are used as building blocks for creating or editing jobs in the Job Editor. Automatic load of Swift Native Accelerated Personalization ( SNAP) jobs. See the Yours Truly Express and Yours Truly Designer user manuals for further details.
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
61
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
Managing Jobs
•
Automatic load of previously archived jobs. Jobs that were previously exported for archiving, can be loaded for reprint through the Press Hot Folder.
To configure the Press Hot Folder: From the Options menu aelect Hot Folder.
Hot Folder Parameters window
62
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
Figure 2-24
The UltraStream
Operating the Press Overview The diagnostic windows of the UltraStream enable you to follow blanket temperature, ink tank temperature, ink concentration and ink conductivity as they move from stage to stage towards printing condition.
If this area appears in red, close ITM hood
If this area appears in red, the BID is not in place
If this area appears in yellow, the Ink temperature is too low
Error indicators
Figure 2-25
You will be prompted to replenish consumables such as ink, paper, blanket and Photoelectric Image Plate (PIP). But most routine procedures, such as applying Cleaner Page and adjusting color levels are fully automated (unless you set the machine to ask for operator confirmation). A UltraStream job is generally prepared at an unrelated, remote Desk Top Publishing station and its printing properties are defined on the Indigo RIP. You receive a ready-to-print (press-ready) file that requires only minor readjustments.
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
63
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
Operating the Press
Turning the Press On To turn on the press: 1.
Turn on the Main Circuit Breaker at the rear of the machine and wait for the Control Panel to appear on the screen (this may take several minutes).
Main Circuit Breaker
Power Enable Switch
Main Circuit Breaker and Power Enable Switch
Figure 2-26
2.
When a prompt appears, press the Power Enable switch on the input side of the press. The press is now in Standby state.
Turning the Press Off From the main menu select System > Shutdown. The following window appears:
Shutdown window
64
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
Figure 2-27
The UltraStream
Select the desired option and click OK. Switch off the main circuit breaker at the rear of the machine. The system is now shut down.
Preparing the Press The following are guidelines for preparing the press: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Make certain that all the subsystems are assembled on the press. Make certain the blanket was cleaned the preceding day. Load the substrate type for the first job to be printed. Close all doors. Press Get Ready on the Control Panel The press drums begin to roll and the various subsystems power up. When the preset conditions are met, press status changes to Ready.
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
65
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
Printing Jobs
Printing Jobs UltraStream jobs begin the printing process in the printing queue. Their position on the list depends on urgency, paper type, paper thickness, number of colors in the job or any other Job Property. Arrange your jobs so that the list facilitates the workflow, e.g.: all jobs that use the same paper type, or all jobs that use the same fifth and sixth color should be grouped and printed consecutively. It is impossible to set guidelines for the best way to organize your Print Queue since priorities change daily. But the system is flexible enough to let you customize the Print Queue every day, in accordance with that day’s preferences and needs.
Stage 1: Preparing the Press 1. 2. 3.
Set the Print Queue. Set the Loaded Job List. Make certain Job Properties — number of copies, print range, screen ruling — are defined as required. If necessary change them.
Stage 2: Proofing 1. 2. 3. 4.
Drag the job to the Current Print Job Panel. From the Print Job menu select Proof. The press prints one copy of your job. Evaluate your print. Check for image placement in relation to the leading edge and to the left side margin (normally the image should be centered on the narrow axis and 10mm from the leading edge). If necessary, open the Job Properties window, click the Placement tab and correct.
Placement window
66
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
Figure 2-28
The UltraStream
Leading edge
10mm
x
x
Image is centered on the horizontal axis
Image Placement on the Sheet
5.
Figure 2-29
If the job is duplex, check the front to back registration. If registration is off, from the Job Properties window, click the Placement tab.
Front Front crossmarks aligned with backside crossmarks
Back Side leading edge
Front to Back Registration
6. 7.
Figure 2-30
If the job is a multi-sheet job, make sure that image placement is the same for all the job sheets. Check for color values. If a previous print or a proof is available, compare them. To increase and decrease color values click the Color Matching or Job LUT tabs in the Job Properties window.
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
67
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
Printing Jobs
Distance from left margin to image is equal throughout the run
Cross run registration
Distance from leading edge to image is equal throughout the run
Figure 2-31
8.
Check image integrity, full ink coverage, right sheet sequence and same image placement for all jobs. 9. If changes other than Job Properties are required (e.g. wrong image, typos, etc.), notify the supervisor or customer. 10. Pull a second proof and evaluate it. 11. If there is a time delay between proof approval by the customer and the actual full run, print one proof immediately before the beginning of the full run print to make certain it matches the approved proof.
Stage 3: Printing the Full Run 1. 2.
3.
4. 5. 6.
68
Click the Print button to print the full run. If the Control Panel switch is set on Continuous, the job is unloaded at the end of the print run and the next job in the Print Queue starts the print process. If the Control Panel switch is set on Step, the next job in the Print Queue is moved to the top of the Print Queue and appears in the Currently Printed Job field. The machine status changes to Ready. Make certain the required paper type for the subsequent job is loaded on the press. Print a proof. Repeat stages 2 and 3.
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The UltraStream
Job Maintenance Loaded jobs can take up a great deal of system space and managing disk resources can be a constant source of concern. UltraStream is equipped to manage your post print jobs automatically. Do not keep unnecessary jobs on your system. UltraStream will discard, save, save for a limited period of time or archive jobs that have already been printed. You define what is to be done with a job after printing in Job Properties >General>After Print . If you want to save a job for a limited period of time, specify the period of time within which you might need it. In the Job Properties window click the Retain for text box and enter the period of time. After that period of time the job will be deleted automatically from the image disk. If you need the job within that period of time, click the Job menu in the Job Manager window and select Retained list.... The Retained Jobs window opens. Drag the desired job into either the Loaded Jobs list or to the Print Queue . You archive a job by clicking the Job menu in the Job Manager window and selcting Export. You can save the desired job to any memory storage device on your system. As with opening files in any Windows NT software, retrieve jobs by clicking the job menu in the Job Manager window and selecting Import. Browse to access the required directory/drive and select the job to be imported.
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
69
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
Servicing Operations
Servicing Operations Control Pads During servicing operations, you use the Control Pad buttons very frequently to rotate the press and cut power from the subsystems. There are two Control Pads on the UltraStream — one next to the feed conveyor and the other next to the Paper Exit Tray. All the Control Pads contain the an Inching button, and a Paper Feed button. Feed Side
Exit Side Inching button Paper Feed
Duplex
Control pads
Figure 2-32
Emergency Stop This is a red button that cuts off power to the main engine and to the High Voltage Power Supply (it does not cut power to the computer or to the Writing Head). Press down on the button and the machine comes to an immediate halt. Twist the button counter-clockwise (in the direction of the button arrows) to restart power. To re-enable the system after an emergency stop, click on Get Ready on the computer screen.
Inching This button advances the machine at slow speed. Press and hold it to move the machine forward. Release it and the machine stops.
Paper Feed This is a toggle button that activates the paper feeding system. The button, when pressed in conjunction with the Inching button, causes the fingers to pick up paper.
Duplex This is a toggle button that activates the duplex mechanism. 70
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The UltraStream
Hand-wheel The Hand-wheel manually advances the machine forward. It is located behind the front door and is generally used when it is inconvenient to use one of the control pads. To operate the Hand-wheel push it in and turn it counterclockwise.
Forward motion Counterclockwise
Handwheel
Figure 2-33
The press keeps printing as long as it remains within the predefined temperature ranges for the different subsystems, ink concentration in the ink tank (ink density), ink and imaging oil level, etc. For the most part, the system automatically makes sure of this, although some operator intervention is necessary. Whenever the system cannot readjust itself, you will be prompted. Each of the necessary procedures is detailed in the On Line Help, which is accessible from the main Help menu. The following outline sketches frequent procedures with the aim of helping you understand their mechanism. The procedures are arranged here in order of frequency of their occurrence.
Ink Replenishment The ElectroInk, Indigo patented liquid ink, is composed of a suspension of imaging oil and solid pigment particles. The concentration of the ink, i.e., its density, decreases as part of the pigment adheres to the printed substrate. The system adds solid pigment to the ink tank automatically whenever pigment concentration goes below the desired level. The
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
71
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
Servicing Operations
concentrated ink is pumped from the ink can. Once an ink can is empty, you have to replace it manually.
Replacing ink cans
Figure 2-34
Imaging Oil Replenishment Imaging oil serves as a carrier for the pigment. It does not adhere to the printed substrate but rather evaporates and is replenished automatically. The Imaging Oil tank has to be refilled when empty. When prompted, pour imaging oil directly into Imaging Oil reservoir, which distributes it between the different ink tanks.
Imaging Oil tank cap
Imaging Oil tank
Imaging Oil tank
72
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
Figure 2-35
The UltraStream
Paper Transport Adjustment Every job is printed on a particular type of paper (or any printable substrate). Once a new substrate is loaded into the Paper feed tray, you must readjust the paper transport system. Paper transport adjustment • • •
Assures a smooth run without paper jams Assures that image placement in relation to the sheet margins is constant Make sure that front and back side images are aligned (registered)
Keep the following in mind when working with the paper subsystem: 1. 2. 3. 4.
5. 6.
When you load paper, center the substrate stack on the paper feed tray and align it against the front bar. Set suction/blowing intensity — the heavier the substrate the more intense the suction should be. Paper lift height – the heavier the substrate the higher the lift should be. From the Main Control Panel click the Consumables menu ans select Substrate. In the Substrate window, define the loaded paper type. Check your settings — run paper without printing to see that no paper jams occur. Print a proof and check it for image placement. Use On Line Help — a detailed procedure and a checklist is supplied in the On Line Help. Perform the procedure step by step in the order the steps appear in the checklist.
Blanket The function of the blanket is to entirely remove the ink from the Photo Imaging Plate (PIP) and to transfer it to the substrate. The blanket has two conflicting characteristics: the capacity to attract all the ink from the PIP and the capacity to repel all the ink and transfer it to the substrate. All the ink must be attracted and then repelled. The blanket’s capacity to perform these conflicting tasks diminishes with use. Cleaning the Blanket The Cleaner Page option and the Print Cleaner function keep the blanket clean automatically. When a Page Cleaner does not clean the blanket properly, you use the Print Cleaner function, which is user defined. If the Print Cleaner does not achieve the desired effect, clean the blanket manually using a lint-free pad.
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
73
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
Servicing Operations
Replacing the Blanket Although treating the blanket according to instructions guarantees its longevity, it at some time will lose its ink transfer capabilities, i.e. it will attract ink but not transfer it to the substrate. When this happens it is time to replace the blanket. Use First Transfer Pressure Adjustment Wizard to check the First Transfer Pressure replacing a blanket, readjust if necessary. See First Pressure Adjustment, p. 138. The blanket gets very hot and you must use heat resistant gloves when removing it. Apply the Inch-Safe-Service Method (see p. 31) both for removing the old and mounting the new blanket. In all cases, make sure the blanket and drum environments are spotlessly clean and that the blanket is taut.
Photo Imaging Plate Images are written on the PIP and erased from it with each revolution. The PIP ’s capacity diminishes with time. Periodically the system performs Auto Bias, which checks the state of PIP deterioration in order to compensate for it. This is performed automatically. Since the system calculates compensation as a function of the PIP’s age, let the system know when you replace a PIP. When the system is unable to write an image on the PIP and erase it, or when there are scratches or physical defects on the PIP surface, the PIP has to be replaced. To prolong PIP longevity, handle it with care, keep it as clean as possible, avoid scratching it, and above all protect it from direct lighting. Direct lighting diminishes PIP capacity to receive and erase an image. You can find the full PIP replacement procedure in the On Line Help and in Replacing the PIP, p. 148 of this manual. Use the Inch-Safe-Service Method (see p. 31) when removing an old PIP or mounting a new one. Keep the following in mind when you replace the • • • • •
74
PIP:
Replace the PIP in dim light Even the smallest dust particle affects print quality While mounting the PIP on its drum keep the PIP foil stretched and parallel to the drum shoulders. Load several sheets of Color Adjust qualified paper Let the system know the reasons for PIP replacement and the new PIP serial number
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The UltraStream
PIP replacement
Figure 2-36
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
75
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
Servicing Operations
Color Adjust The purpose of the Color Adjust procedure is to adjust the press to guarantee color repeatability across the run and between runs. The procedure allows you to set the density of the 100 percent dot and the density of the 50 percent dot without altering the color reproduction curve. PIP deterioration is reflected in inaccurate color. Automatic compensation due to PIP age is an approximate tool. Age is not the only cause for PIP deterioration. The character of images printed and the number of prints per image also influence the rate of PIP deterioration. The Color Adjust procedure fine tunes the compensation process for each PIP individually.
Color Adjust is performed automatically every 8,000 impressions, unless overridden by the operator. The Color Adjust procedure is triggered automatically when you turn the machine on after a break of several hours and on replacement of PIP.
76
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The UltraStream
Editing Job Properties When a job lands in your Loaded Jobs list, it has already been defined and you do not have to redefine it. But after you pull and evaluate a proof, you might decide that some of the job properties require redefinition. The UltraStream gives you several options for editing job properties.
The Job Properties Window You edit job properties in the Job Properties window. The Job properties window is divided into several tabbed sub-windows: •
General — defines non-machine related parameters such as number of copies, collation printing or not, duplexing or not, mirroring, tumbling and rotating the job
Job Properties window
• • • •
Figure 2-37
LUT — allows you to change a job’s color look-up table Screening — allows screen ruling change Color match — enables you to alter color brightness Image placement — can be changed.
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
77
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
Editing Job Properties
Job Properties window
Figure 2-38
LUTs
Printed Dot Size
Printed Dot Size
Look-up tables are tables that enable you to change the printed dot size in relation to the dot size as defined in the original graphics files. Indigo supplies several LUTs, ranging from linear to cromalin, with cromalin applying the biggest dot gain. you can also create your own LUT.
Dot size in graphic file
Cromalin Different LUTs
Dot size in graphic file
Linear Figure 2-39
Screening Jobs can be printed with different screen rulings. The higher the screen ruling the better the rendering of detail. Higher screen rulings are more demanding as they demand a more finely tuned machine calibration. Indigo supplies three screen rulings: Sequin — an average of 144 lpi; HDI set 2 — an average of 250 lpi; HDI set 3 — an average of 195 lpi.
78
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
The UltraStream
Color Match Color matching is the tool to use when color intensity is to be changed. Unlike changing a LUT where every dot size can be manipulated individually, color matching is a fast but rougher tool. The whole grey scale is shifted either up or down. All you have to do is define the new optical density value for the 100% dot and for the 50% dot for each ink individually. You can do this while printing. The system readjusts itself to the new values on the fly and the change is immediate. The very next sheet is printed with the new values. Those values are saved as part of the job properties for future reruns.
Image placement You can adjust image placement in relation to the top-left corner of the sheet. The simplex side image and the duplex side image can be manipulated independently to assure front-to-back registration. Additionally, images on both sides of the sheet can be moved together to change image placement. To do this, click Pause, adjust the image placement and continue printing. These changes can be saved as part of the job properties or be used only for the current run.
UltraStream Operator Manual, software version V 3.0
79
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
Editing Job Properties
80
MNU-1190-51
December 19, 1999, T:\DATA\SBN\Introduction\intro1.fm
