PrintFactory RIP File Processing & Output Workflow

LINKO Technical Guide

1. Purpose

This guide explains the full process, from image file to finished print. It covers:

  • The difference between PrintFactory RIP and the print control software
  • How print data is processed and sent
  • The difference between File Mode and TCP/IP Mode
  • How to choose the right output method

After you read this guide, you can choose the output method for your setup. You can then open the matching setup guide.

2. Print File Processing and Output Workflow

In daily production, the process runs as follows:

Fig.2.1 Print File Processing and Output Workflow

2.1-Print-File-Processing-and-Output-Workflow

Fig. 2.1 shows the full process. It has five stages:

  1. Image File: Prepare an image file. Common formats are JPG, PNG, and TIFF.
  2. RIP Software Processing: PrintFactory RIP processes the image. It then generates the print data.
  3. Print Data Transmission: The print data is sent to the print control software. File Mode or TCP/IP Mode is used.
  4. Control Software Execution: The print control software receives the data. It then controls the printer.
  5. Printing Completed: The printer finishes the print.

The process has three parts: PrintFactory RIP processing, data transmission, and print control software execution. Each part is explained below.

3. Difference Between PrintFactory RIP and the Print Control Software

PrintFactory RIP processes images and generates print data. The print control software (called “control software” in this guide) receives the print data and controls the printer.

Item PrintFactory RIP Control Software
Main function Processes images and generates print data Receives print data and controls the printer
Common tasks Import images. Set size and number of copies. Arrange the layout to reduce material waste. Set color and spot channels, such as white ink. View print jobs. Start or pause printing. Control carriage movement, media feed, and ink firing. Show printer status and error messages.
Stage in the workflow Print data generation Actual printing

💡 Two Points to Note:

The two programs have different functions. They cannot replace each other. PrintFactory RIP generates the print data. The control software runs the print.

File Mode and TCP/IP Mode are the two ways PrintFactory RIP sends print data to the control software. They are not related to the print mode, the pass setting, or the resolution of the printer.

4. The Two Output Methods

PrintFactory RIP can send print data to the control software in two ways.

  • File Mode saves the print data as a .prt file. The control software then reads the file and runs the print.
  • TCP/IP Mode sends the print data directly to the control software. No .prt file is created.

5. Difference and Selection

Not sure which method to choose?

LINKO recommends File Mode.

TCP/IP Mode needs a powerful computer. It also needs a stable connection during printing. Choose TCP/IP Mode only if your computer meets the requirements. The connection must also stay stable.

Item File Mode TCP/IP Mode
How it works PrintFactory RIP creates the .prt file first. The control software then reads the file and runs the print. RIP processing and printing run at the same time. The print data is sent to the control software in real time.
Data transfer Asynchronous. The print data is created first. Printing starts after that. Real time. Data transfer and printing happen at the same time.
Local files A .prt file and a .bmp file are created. No local files are created.
Computer requirement Low. Printing starts after RIP processing is finished. RIP speed does not affect print quality. High. The computer must complete RIP processing at printing speed.
Benefits High stability. You can print the same job again. Printing does not depend on RIP speed. No local files to manage. Printing can start as soon as the job is sent.
Limits Uses disk space. More setup steps are needed. Needs a powerful computer. Needs a stable connection. Print jobs cannot be reused.
Recommended for Most production work. Jobs that you need to save or print again. Automated production with a powerful computer and a stable connection.

6. About File Mode Print Files

.prt file is the print data file created by PrintFactory RIP. It contains:

  • Printer driver information
  • Print curve
  • Ink and channel settings
  • Print data for the image

.prt file contains all of this print data. It is therefore much larger than the original image file. Keep enough free disk space for the output folder.

.prt file is a print data package. You cannot open it as a normal image. The system therefore also creates a .bmp file with the same name. This file shows a thumbnail of the print job. It makes print jobs easier to identify and manage.

.prt file is linked to the printer driver and the print settings used to create it. It usually cannot be used on a different printer.

7. Next Step

Continue with the setup guide for your output method:

Your output method Next step
File Mode Set File Mode in PrintFactory RIP
TCP/IP Mode Set TCP/IP Mode in PrintFactory RIP

Open one guide only. You do not need to complete both.

LINKO Technical Support
Email: support@dtflinko.com
Website: www.dtflinko.com

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