Global Graphics has released a new version of the Harlequin RIP and announced a new screening solution for single pass inkjet presses, both to be shown off at the Drupa show.
The Harlequin Multi-Level Digital Screening Engine varies the amount of ink delivered from the inkjet head in any one location on any type of media to overcome common problems such as streaking and mottling that are frustrating many press manufacturers.
Martin Bailey, chief technology officer at Global Graphics Software, explained: “This new engine can be integrated into Digital Front Ends based on Harlequin RIPs, but will also work with third party DFEs by the addition of a standalone version to replace the native screening.”
This development is part of a new service from Global Graphics to measure test prints from single-pass greyscale presses, and process the results through its new Digital Print Quality Optimizer tool. This calculates optimized patterning and overlaps for the various ink drop sizes available, to overcome common high speed inkjet press problems such as streaking and mottling.
The Digital Print Quality Optimizer calculates the optimum drop sizes and screen pattern for particular combinations of press, greyscale/multi-level print heads, and substrate. This significantly improves the printed quality of photographs and similar image types, especially in highlights and areas of subtly changing tones.
This enables the Global Graphics’ team to calculate optimal changes in the dot patterning to counter the effect of drops straying in flight from their aim points and possibly then spreading and coalescing on the substrate before they can be cured.
You can read a more detailed explanation in a white paper on the Global Graphics website at www.globalgraphics.com/screening-optimizer-white-paper.
In addition, Global Graphics has also updated its Harlequin RIP to v11. It’s available in two editions: the Harlequin Host Renderer 11, which powers the Digital Front Ends used in high-volume digital production environments; and, Harlequin MultiRIP 11 for conventional and light digital production printing.
The Host Renderer includes the Multi-level Digital Screening technology, as well as improved handling of variable data elements in PDF/VT files.
The MultiRIP has faster processing to speed up image-heavy jobs in light production printing and improved handling of large image files. It also targets the labels and packaging sector with a selection of screens for flexo, offset and digital production.
Xitron has already announced an update to its Harlequin-based Navigator RIP to reflect this new release. Anyone who buys Navigator 10 will receive a free update to v11 when it’s released.
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