The Top Ten RIP Upgrade Related Questions
Article Provided By Xitron
When discussing upgrade options with RIP owners, there are a few questions that come up in every conversation. I thought it might be helpful to go through them here:
1. What’s different in the new RIP?
The answer to this question varies depending on the current RIP version and the manufacturer. However there are a few common denominators such as faster RIP speeds, better memory management, improved interpretive accuracy (especially when dealing with transparency), faster trapping, and of course, bug fixes.
2. Can I run the new RIP on my old platform?
If it is on a relatively new PC running at least Windows 7 64-bit. Version 12, which is the currently shipping release will only run on a 64-bit OS. That being the case, you should take a look at the RAM population in the PC and consider moving it up to at least 8GB since the RIP can actually address all the RAM available now.
3. My old RIP had some options like CIP3 and trapping. Do I have to pay for those again?
No. All options currently assigned to your license transfer to the new installation.
4. Can I install the upgrade myself?
Perhaps. It really depends on your skill level and knowledge of the RIP. However, it might be to your advantage to have a Xitron Support Specialist handle it for you over Team Viewer. The cost is negligible and the installation success is guaranteed. Plus, they’ll migrate all your old settings into the new RIP so configurations don’t have to be rebuilt.
5. My old RIP was an RTI (or Compose, ECRM, or HighWater) brand. What’s the difference and why will you be installing a Navigator RIP?
The only real difference is the brand name in the splash screen shown when launching the RIP. They are all based on the Harlequin core, and function in exactly the same way with the same menus. Because Xitron negotiated for the rights to these licenses, we can now consolidate all these brands to Navigator, the most popular and well known brand among Harlequin software RIPs.
6. Are there any other advantages to changing brands during the upgrade?
Many. Xitron supplied the output interfaces to RTI, Compose, and HighWater for many years. In essence, you are now working with the manufacturer of the hardware instead of an OEM. Also, Xitron (at your discretion) can add functionality through the optional Navigator workflow module, which offers many time-saving and productive features to enhance your prepress throughput.
7. Will I have to replace my current CTP interface?
Not if you are already using the USB (blue box) interface. However, if your current interface is a PCI card installed within the computer, you will. This is because most RIP manufacturers eliminated support for PCI cards years ago. There are no PCI drivers available for the 64-bit OS.
8. I’m thinking about changing my CTP also. What kind of problems will that cause?
Probably none at all. If the new CTP is coming from the same manufacturer of the old engine, the USB interface will probably drive the new one. If the new engine is from a different manufacturer, a replacement interface is likely available for a small additional charge. If the new engine comes with its own TIFF catcher, then we’ll simply need to verify that the TIFF out option is enabled in the current RIP license.
9. I’ve heard that the latest version doesn’t use a dongle. Is that true?
Partially. Dongles were eliminated and replaced with “soft locks,” or codes beginning with version 10 of the RIP. However, many users prefer having a dongle so that the software can be moved and loaded on other platforms for back up. If you prefer a dongle, you can still get one for a small fee.
10. I’d like to make this as seamless as possible. How can Xitron assist me?
Investigate the bundle upgrade package. It includes the platform, software pre-installed, a new interface if necessary, remote installation support from a Xitron specialist, three-year computer warranty, and 90 days of technical support. We migrate all your settings and help get you up and going in the shortest time possible.
Mid-State Litho (MSL) is an authorized distributor of Xitron Workflow and RIP solutions. Learn more about Xitron Software here.
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