Xanté SpeedSetter 400 Owner's manual

Brand: Xanté

Model: SpeedSetter 400

Type: Owner's manual

Installation &

Operation Manual

SpeedSetter 300

SpeedSetter 300X2 & 400

Document: 300.OM-ALL

Revsion: .02a

Revision Date: 13, October 2003

without prior written permission of RIPit Computer Corporation is prohibited, except as allowed under the copyright laws.

www.ripit.com

II SpeedSetter 300/400 Operator’s Manual

Preface: Summary, Conventions, and Notices i

PREFACE: What you can learn

What you can learn from this manual

This manual introduces the user to the SpeedSetter 300 and 400 series imagesetter

engines, – their installation, features, operation, maintenance and some simple

service tasks. Most general operation is common to all models, but where there are

unique features or circumstances, they are noted. This manual does not cover in-

depth service of the imagesetter engine, nor does it cover the necessary details of

system integration with a host computer and RIP software, or on-line or off-line

processing.

Manual Overview

Chapter 1 — Read This First! - Unpacking and Installation - provides information

on unpacking the machine, power requirements, environmental

considerations and basic hook up to a host Raster Image Processor

(RIP) computer.

Chapter 2 — Getting Acquainted with Your Imagesetter - provides an introduc-

tion to the imagesetter features, and an overview of key components.

Chapter 3 — Selecting Photographic Media - provides guidelines regarding the

selection of photographic media including film, paper and polyester

plate.

Chapter 4 — Using the Imagesetter Control Panel - describes the function and

operation of the front panel keys, indicators, and menu system.

Chapter 5 — Basic Operating Procedures - describes the way the imagesetter

works with the host RIP system, and provides procedures for media

loading, density calibration, and media usage tracking.

Chapter 6 — Maintenance and Adjustments - describes Operator serviceable

maintenance functions.

Chapter 7 — Solving Imagesetter Problems - explains how to isolate and fix some

occasional problems such as dirt in the optical path.

Chapter 8 — Repackaging the Imagesetter for Shipment or Relocation - describes

how, and emphasizes the importance of proper packaging of the

machine.

Appendix A — Imagesetter Specifications - is a listing of the features, performance

specifications, environmental requirements, and media require-

ments for the imagesetter engines covered by this manual.

Appendix B — Front Panel Status and Error Messages - listing describes all of the

front panel messages and what, if anything, to do when and if they

occur.

Appendix C — Regulatory Statements - lists the various governmental testing,

safety and certification statements.

Note:

Having prior

experience with

film or polyester

plate based

imagesetting

systems is of

great benefit,

although it is not

absolutely

necessary in

order to make use

of this manual.

ii SpeedSetter 300/400 Operator’s Manual

Conventions

 Unless otherwise noted, the term media is generally used throughout this

manual as a generic term meaning all photographic media including paper and

polyester based film and plate.

 RIP — Raster Image Processor, can be either software or hardware. Supplies

external control and rasterized binary data to the imagesetter engine for print-

ing. Also refered to as the “front end”

 Unless otherwise noted, the terms imagesetter, SpeedSetter, Maxxima, engine,

output device, and printer refer interchangeably to the basic image setting

engine, not including the host computer, interface or RIP.

 The Imagesetting or Platesetting System refers to the integrated system of the

imagesetter, the host computer (Macintosh, PC, work station, etc.), the Hard-

ware Interface (standard RIPit parallel Video, requiring a plug-in card) between

the host and the imagesetter, and the RIP and its driver.

 - indicates the green Power On Light Emitting Diode (LED) is on.

 - indicates the yellow Light Emitting Diode (LED) located on the front

panel is blinking.

 - indicates the red Light Emitting Diode (LED) located on the front

panel is on.

 - indicates that the control panel audible indicator (beeper) sounds.

 Bold Monospace type is used for message text that appears on the imageset-

ter control panel display.

 - indicate control panel keys.

 Wet refers to settings and/or characteristics spcific to the use of conventional

wet chemical processed films, papers and polyester plates. If neither wet or dry

is mentioned, assume wet.

Notice

RIPit Computer Corporation makes no warranty of any kind with regard to this

material, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability

and fitness for a particular purpose. RIPit Computer Corporation will not be liable

for errors contained herein or for incidental consequential damages in connection

with the furnishing, performance, or use of this material.

Trademark Credits

RIPit, the RIPit logo and SpeedSetter are registered trademarks of RIPit Computer

Corporation. Virtual Drum, You Can't Beat a Virtual Drum, Exxtra and the

Exxtra logo are trademarks of Exxtra Imaging Systems, Inc. Macintosh is a regis-

tered trademark of Apple Computer, Inc.

SpeedSetter

Brand Names

SpeedSetters are

sold under many

different names

throughout the

world. Refer to the

manufacturer’s

label on the back of

the imagesetter for

which SpeedSetter

model applies.

Table of Contents iii

Contents

PREFACE: What you can learn ............................................................... i

What you can learn from this manual................................................................................. i

Manual Overview ..................................................................................................... i

Conventions ..............................................................................................................ii

Notice .........................................................................................................................ii

Trademark Credits ...................................................................................................ii

Contents .....................................................................................................iii

Chapter 1: Read This First ........................................................................1

Unpacking .............................................................................................................................. 1

Wooden Crate ........................................................................................................... 1

Cardboard Carton .................................................................................................... 2

Power Requirements............................................................................................................. 2

Setup Location and Environmental Considerations ........................................................ 3

Initial Imagesetter Setup ...................................................................................................... 4

Chapter 2: Getting Acquainted with Your Imagesetter ......................5

General Differences Between Models: ............................................................................... 5

Key features - General Description..................................................................................... 6

Virtual Drum™ Technology .......................................................................................... 6

Film Handling ................................................................................................................. 6

Supply Cassette ........................................................................................................ 6

Standard Output Cassette....................................................................................... 6

Extra Capacity Output Cassette ............................................................................. 7

Knife ...........................................................................................................................7

Chads (Plate Hold Down Tabs) .............................................................................. 7

Operator Controls........................................................................................................... 7

Electronics ........................................................................................................................ 7

Air Inlet Filter .................................................................................................................. 7

Power Supply .................................................................................................................. 7

Interfaces .......................................................................................................................... 8

RIPit Parallel Video Interface ................................................................................. 8

On-Line Processor Interface Port ........................................................................... 8

Modem/Terminal Remote Diagnostic Port ......................................................... 8

SpeedSetter Imagesetter Parts Identification .................................................................... 9

Machine Identification Label ........................................................................................ 9

Inside of the User Compartment .................................................................................. 9

Imager ...................................................................................................................... 10

Support Rings ......................................................................................................... 10

Sensors and Safety Interlocks ............................................................................... 10

Door interlock ......................................................................................................... 10

Out of Paper Sensor (OOPS)................................................................................. 10

Out of Cassette Switch (OOCS)............................................................................ 10

iv SpeedSetter 300/400 Operator’s Manual

Chapter 3: Selecting Photographic Media ......................................... 11

Photographic media requirements: ............................................................................ 11

Differences in Density (Dmax) ............................................................................. 11

Darkroom Bulk Load and Daylight Bulk Load versus Disposable Cassette. 12

Chapter 4: Using the Imagesetter Control Panel ...............................13

Introduction ......................................................................................................................... 13

When to Use the Control Panel ......................................................................................... 13

Control Panel Layout.......................................................................................................... 13

The LCD Display .......................................................................................................... 13

The Control Panel (LED) Indicators........................................................................... 14

The Control Panel Audible Indicator (Beeper)

................................................ 15

Control Panel Keys ....................................................................................................... 15

Menu Operation ..................................................................................................................17

Control Panel Menu Tree ............................................................................................. 17

Main Menu - Commonly Used Status Displays and Adjustments ................. 17

Maintenance Menu ................................................................................................ 19

Option Menu........................................................................................................... 19

Selftest Menu .......................................................................................................... 22

Chapter 5: Basic Operating Procedures ...............................................25

Introduction: ........................................................................................................................ 25

How The Host RIP Works With the Imagesetter ..................................................... 25

Description of a Typical Printing Cycle ..................................................................... 25

Imagesetter turn-on ............................................................................................... 25

Front-end/RIP commands - initialization .......................................................... 25

RIPing ..................................................................................................................... 26

Imaging ................................................................................................................... 26

Setup for next job .................................................................................................. 26

Stop/Start Operation ................................................................................................... 27

Resolution Selection ..................................................................................................... 27

Gray Scale Calibration ................................................................................................. 27

Polyester Plates - Active Image Position ................................................................... 27

Differences between On-line and Off-line Operation ............................................. 28

Configuring the Imagesetter Between On-line and Off-line Modes .............. 28

Loading the Bulk Load Supply Cassette with Film ....................................................... 28

Loading Film into the Imagesetter ................................................................................... 29

Setting Proper Exposure Density ...................................................................................... 31

Film Supply Tracking ......................................................................................................... 32

Resetting the Display Counters .................................................................................. 33

Setting the Film Feed Length ............................................................................... 34

Setting the Feed B4 (before) cut length ............................................................... 34

Setting the Supply Film Length .................................................................................. 34

Setting the Film Low Warning .................................................................................... 34

Completing the Job for Processing............................................................................. 34

Off-Line.................................................................................................................... 34

On-Line .................................................................................................................... 35

Chapter 6: Maintenance and Adjustments ........................................37

Servicing Knife .............................................................................................................. 37

Need for Knife Service .......................................................................................... 37

Operator Knife Service Procedure ....................................................................... 37

Table of Contents v

Replacing a Fuse ........................................................................................................... 38

Need for Fuse Replacement.................................................................................. 38

Operator Fuse Service Procedure ........................................................................ 38

Cleaning ......................................................................................................................... 39

Cleaning the Inside Components ........................................................................ 39

General Inside Cleaning ........................................................................................ 39

Cleaning Media Drive Rollers .............................................................................. 39

Cleaning the Outside of the Cabinet ................................................................... 39

Cleaning Air Inlet filter ........................................................................................ 40

Lubrication of Moving Parts ....................................................................................... 40

Lead Screw .............................................................................................................. 40

Lubrication of Rails ................................................................................................ 41

Chapter 7: Solving Imagesetter Problems..........................................43

Imagesetter Display Messages and Recommended Actions ........................................ 43

Solving Image Quality Problems................................................................................ 43

Scratches .................................................................................................................. 43

Horizontal Light Or Dark Lines (Laser Light Obstruction or Blockage) ....... 44

Vertical Unexposed (light) Lines .......................................................................... 44

Problem Solving Checklist .......................................................................................... 45

Introduction ............................................................................................................ 45

Is There a Control Panel Message? ...................................................................... 45

Is there a 'Ready' Message?................................................................................... 45

Does the Knife Jam Frequently?........................................................................... 45

Does the Imagesetter Engine Run Self Tests?..................................................... 46

Are the Imagesetter and RIP Interface Communicating? ................................ 46

Is the Film Consistently, Uniformly Underexposed (Light)?........................... 47

Film Feeding Problems - 'Popping' Sound When Feeding Film and/or 'Short'

Film Feeds. ........................................................................................................ 47

Where to go for More Help................................................................................... 48

Remote Diagnostics ............................................................................................... 49

Chapter 8: Repackaging Imagesetter ..................................................51

PACKAGING INSTRUCTIONS:....................................................................................... 51

Appendix A: Imagesetters Specifications ...........................................53

Common Specifications: ..................................................................................................... 53

Appendix B: Front Panel Status and Error Messages .......................55

Appendix C: Regulatory Statements....................................................63

FCC Regulations ........................................................................................................... 63

Canadian RFI Testing Certification ............................................................................ 63

CDRH Laser Safety Information ................................................................................ 63

European Union -

............................................................................................... 63

Underwriters Laboratories Listed -

....................................... 63

Index ...........................................................................................................65

vi SpeedSetter 300/400 Operator’s Manual

Chapter 1: Read This First! - Unpacking and Installation 1

Unpacking

Caution!

The imagesetter weighs

approximately 95 pounds (41 kg).

Two people should unpack and position the

unit.

Note:

Examine packaging upon arrival

and document any possible shipping

damage with shipper and reseller BEFORE

proceeding

The Imagesetter and line cord are packed into a heavy

duty reusable cardboard carton. For overseas ship-

ments, this carton and the separate carton containing

the Supply Cassette and Output Cassette are packaged

into a reusable wooden crate.

KEEP THIS PACKING MATERIAL

for reuse should the imagesetter have to be relocated or

returned to the factory for service. Equipment not returned

in the original packing may void warranties! Replacement

of this packaging is costly. Equipment will not be returned

shipped after repair without proper packaging.

Wooden Crate

Open the wooden crate (if applicable) as follows:

1. Pry off the spring clips on the top (there should be 6 of these clips). Use a pry

bar, large pliers, or a large screwdriver.

fig 1: Crated

package assembly

Chapter 1: Read This First

Read This First! -

Unpacking and

Installation

SpeedSetter 300/400 Operator’s Manual

Warning:

these clips are powerful springs that can cause bodily

harm if not constrained when removed. Take proper

precautions! Do not lose these clips!

2. Remove the top wooden crate panel.

3. One side of the crate can be also removed for improved access by removing the

7 securing screws.

4. Remove the two smaller (cassette and misc part) cartons.

5. With two people, remove large carton.

6. Replace the side crate panel if removed, using the screws, and use the crate for

storing the other packaging materials.

Cardboard Carton

Unpack the larger carton as follows:

1.Slice through the tape on the top of the carton and open the top

and remove wood panel.

2.Remove the top two foam endinserts.

3.With two people, grab the unit on the bottom at each of the long

ends and lift the unit out of the carton. Be careful not to hold or lift

the unit by the unpainted stainless steel lips on the front of the

cabinet. When relocating unit, always LIFT unit, — do not slide.

4. Use a 5/16" nut driver or a screwdriver to loosen the hex head

white plastic screws in the two red ‘L

IP LOCKS’ located on either end

of the film exit lips. These LIP LOCKS are shipping brackets that help

to maintain the alignment of the unit during the rigors of shipping.

Failure to properly use the LIP LOCKS when shipping the unit can

cause optical alignment and knife operational problems.

5. Keep all of this packing material together for possible future use.

Refer to Chapter 8 — Repacking Imagesetter for Shipment or

Relocation for repacking instructions.

Power Requirements

The imagesetter engine requires power supplied in the range of 90 to 130 volts or

180 to 260 volts and 50 to 60 Hz single phase. The imagesetter power supply will

automatically sense the incoming voltage and adjust accordingly. Total power

required is 175 watts maximum.

fig 2:

Imagesetter

carton dis-

assembly

Chapter 1: Read This First! - Unpacking and Installation 3

Setup Location and Environmental

Considerations

The following site requirements are necessary for proper operation of the

imagesetter:

 A sturdy, flat and level surface with at least

5-3/4 inches (15 cm) clearance behind the

unit and 5 inches (13 cm) of table top in

front of the unit. At least 12" (31cm) of

clear space must be available above the

unit to allow the cover to fully open. The

supporting surface should securely sup-

port the 95 pound (43 kg) weight of the

imagesetter plus anything else to be

located on the same table.

In some cases the imagesetter platform

may be an optional RIPit supplied stand.

NOTE:

No other machinery should be located on or near the

imagesetter table. Vibration from such machinery can

interact with the imagesetter and cause undesirable

artifacts on film.

 A well ventilated room. Dust and/or smoke in the environment will degrade

the optical system requiring more frequent servicing of the imagesetter.

Generally, the room should be air conditioned and smoke-free with no food

or drink allowed in the immediate area.

 Pick a location away from direct sunlight or other direct lighting. Normal

indirect office lighting or slightly subdued lighting is best. Brighter lighting

will decrease the fog-free time of the film in the imagesetter.

 A steadily maintained ambient temperature in the range of 64 - 84F

(18 - 29C). For best repeatability results, avoid the extremes of this range

and keep the film and imagesetter at the same temperature for several

hours before imaging. Avoid abrupt temperature changes (greater than 2F

per hour).

 Maintain the relative humidity between 35% and 85%, non-condensing. Again,

for best repeatability results, avoid the extremes of this range and keep the film

and imagesetter at the same humidity for several hours before imaging. Film

emulsion is very sensitive to humidity, — the physical size of the film is affected

by relatively small changes in humidity. This may affect the registration of

successive film separations.

 Very low humidity also contributes to problems related to static electricity, such

as film jams, improper film feeding, and certain undesirable artifacts on devel-

oped film.

fig. 3:

Imagesetter

size and

clearances

fig. 4: Picture

of imagesetter on

optional stand.

SpeedSetter 300/400 Operator’s Manual

Initial Imagesetter Setup

1. Locate the imagesetter in a place that meets the requirements outlined in the

prior Section.

2. If the imagesetter is part of an on-line plate system, follow the setup instruc-

tions provided with the system, otherwise continue with this procedure.

3. Install the main line cord into the receptacle in the back of the imagesetter and

into the wall socket. (Machines supplied for installation in North America come

with the appropriate line cord. Because of all the different types of main power

receptacles throughout the world, units shipped outside of North America

require the user or equipment dealer to supply the correct line cord. The cord

must be compatible with the IEC320 receptacle on the back of the imagesetter

and should be shielded and meet local requirements for safety).

4. Attach the interface cable (not supplied with imagesetter, but usually supplied

with the RIP interface card) from the 50 pin ‘D’ connector on the back of the

imagesetter to the interface card in the host computer. See instructions supplied

with the interface card/RIP for more information.

5. Follow manufacturer’s and/or integrator’s instructions for setup and intercon-

nection of the interface card, host computer and the RIP.

6. Turn the imagesetter ON using the switch located next to the line cord recep-

tacle.

7. See Chapter 5 — Basic Operating Procedures for film loading and calibration

information.

Chapter 2: Getting Acquainted with Your Imagestter

General Differences Between Models:

The 300 series models all produce an image of up to a 12.5” (317 mm) x 18.75” (476

mm) onto 13.3 (338 mm) wide media. With the plate edge fogger option, they can

produce a 13.3” (338 mm) wide by up to 20” (508 mm) long polyester plate. This

plate size is suitable for most smaller portrait size sheet fed presses.

The 400 series models produce an image of up to 14.95” (380 mm) x 18.75” (476 mm)

onto 15.75” (400 mm) media. With the plate edge fogger option, the 400s can pro-

duce a 15.75” (400 mm) wide by up to 21” (533 mm) long polyester plate. This plate

size is suitable for Heidelberg GTO and similar size sheet fed presses.

The SpeedSetter 300L or Basic model is limited to 1200 DP and 2400 DPI resolutions

and is the slowest imaging of the models. As a practical matter, it is limited to 150 -

200 LPI line screens depending on the RIP and screening technology utilized.

The 300X2 and 400 models image about 2.5 times faster

than the 300 and support resolutions of 1000, 1200, 1800,

2400, 3000, and 4000 DPI. Not all resolutions are sup-

ported by all resellers.

All models can be supplied with optional media edge

exposure units (foggers) which are required in order to

fully expose the sides of the plates left unexposed by the

imaging laser so the plate does not pick up ink.

The specific model number can be found on the

manufacturer’s label located on the back of the machine

above the power switch.

Differences in the operation of the different machines

are generally small, but are noted as they might arise in

the text.

Older models 300 (IR), 300X2 (IR) and 300X6 (IR) are not

covered by this manual.

fig 5:

Imagesetter

layout

Getting Acquainted with

Your Imagesetter

Chapter 2: Getting Acquainted with Your

Imagesetter

SpeedSetter 300/400 Operator’s Manual

Key features - General Description

SpeedSetters

are compact, desktop film and polyester plate recorders that produce

film and plate quality comparable to floor standing, internal drum recorders of

significantly higher cost. The image to image repeatability of the SpeedSetter is

typically within –.0005 over the entire 12.5" or 14.95” x 18.75" field. This is unlike

some of the best capstan technology machines of similar cost, that can only come

close to this specification on consecutive films under ideal operating conditions. The

SpeedSetters have a minimum spot size (measured at 50% power) of 10mm which

produces superb image quality. For high quality color separation applications, the

SpeedSetter can only be compared to other drum-type recorders of much higher

cost and complexity.

Virtual Drum™ Technology

RIPit Speedsetters utilize Virtual Drum technology, — a unique imaging technology

of the internal drum category used for imagesetters that provides the high repeat-

ability and superb image quality required for the production of 200 and 300 line

screen color separation master films.

This technology enables the SpeedSetter to be a true desktop imagesetter that meets

the highest standards needed for color printing for up to A3 or tabloid size images.

The Virtual Drum is created by forming the film into a cylindrical shape by wrap-

ping it around two support rings and tensioning it with rollers at both ends of the

film web. The quality of the system is enhanced by surrounding the laser writing

beam with a pair of “clam shells”, which confine stray light and perfect the cylindri-

cal shape locally. Image quality is further enhanced by the Virtual Drum, which,

unlike rigid drum structure surfaces, does not reflect laser beam pass-through back

to the emulsion and create undesirable halo effects on the film.

Film Handling

Supply Cassette

Film is roll fed from a 250 foot [75 meter] maximum (.004” [.1 mm] thick mate-

rial) supply cassette. Initially, each roll is manually threaded around the drum

and through the rollers, and latched into place by closing the output pinch

roller. Film feed is controlled automatically through the computer interface or

manually by the front panel operator control.

Standard Output Cassette

The Standard Capacity cassette is capable of holding about 15 feet (5 meters) of

0.005” (.12 mm) thick media and about 10 feet (3 M) of 0.008” (.2 mm) thick media.

Output cassettes are optional on for imagesetters used in on-line plate making

systems

fig 6: Supply

cassette

Chapter 2: Getting Acquainted with Your Imagestter

Extra Capacity Output Cassette

The Extra Capacity output cassette is also available. It contains a spooling mecha-

nism which will accept 30 feet (10 meters) or more of exposed 0.005" (0.12 mm) or

0.008” (.02 mm) thick film or polyester plate. It will accept somewhat less photo-

graphic paper.

The Extra Capacity output cassette is identified by labels inside the finger recesses

of the cassette handles.

Knife

A motorized razor knife cuts the exposed film from the remaining web. The blade

is long life tungsten carbide and all four corners of the blade are interchangeably

usable.

Chads (Plate Hold Down Tabs)

Chads are plastic pieces that are adhered to the underside of the upper exit lip at

each end. Their purpose is mainly for application in on-line processing. They hold

the trailing edge of the cut material down onto the lower exit lip so that the next

plate pushes the cut plate out of the imagesetter. If these chads are not working

properly because of damage, wear, etc., pieces of cut plate can come through the

processor instead of dropping into the bridge. The chads serve no purpose in off-

line modes.

Operator Controls

The Operator’s control panel includes a four line by 20 digit liquid crystal display,

five push-button keys, three LED lamps and a beeper. The display conveniently

provides for all Operator functions, as well as service and maintenance functions.

Electronics

A single printed circuit logic board provides the interface and all machine controls.

Electronic interlocks and limit sensors are utilized to provide carriage motion

limits, knife limit, out-of-film sensing, cassette present sensing, and cover closed

interlocking.

Air Inlet Filter

The air inlet into the cabinet incorporates a filter cartridge that must be inspected

cleaned regularly in order to prevent dust and dirt from contaminating the optics,

electronics and mechanical transport system. Failure to service the filter can lead

to costly repair and system down time.

Power Supply

The power supply is auto ranging to accommodate the mains supply in most

locations in the world. Only 175 Watts of power are required.

SpeedSetter 300/400 Operator’s Manual

Interfaces

RIPit Parallel Video Interface

The standard interface to the RIP computer is the RIPit Parallel Video interface. This

interface requires an interface card and interconnecting cable for the host RIP com-

puter that is usually provided with the RIP package.

On-Line Processor Interface Port

An on-line processor/bridge port is provided which when programmed through

the control panel can allow the imagesetter to coordinate functions with certain on-

line processors and bridges.

Modem/Terminal Remote Diagnostic Port

An RS232 port is provided which can be connected to a common external modem or

a local computer. Service Personnel can take control of the imagesetter for the

purposes of diagnostics and firmware upgrades.

fig 7: External

features

indentification.

Chapter 2: Getting Acquainted with Your Imagestter

fig 8:

Manufacturer’s

label.

SpeedSetter Imagesetter

Parts Identification

Machine

Identification Label

The identification label includes

information and certifications

required by various regulatory

organizations. Included on this

label are the machine Serial

Number and Model Number

which should be referenced

when requesting technical

information.

Inside of the User Compartment

fig 9:

Component

identification

inside user

compartment.

SpeedSetter 300/400 Operator’s Manual

Imager

The Imager assembly consists of a pair of precision machined aluminum castings

(sometimes referred to as the Clam Shells) that support the laser, optics, switchable

aperture, laser electronics, and spinner motor assembly. As the spinner motor

rotates laser light is projected onto the film plane through the opening between the

two Clam Shell halves. The Clam Shells are mounted to support rails by means of

linear bearings. This assembly is transported across the image area by a motor

driven lead screw assembly. The outside diameter also serves the purpose of defin-

ing the imaging radius of the Virtual Drum to the tight tolerances required for

repeatability between exposures.

Support Rings

The Support Rings are constructed of the same material as the Clam Shell castings.

The function of the Support Rings are to form the basic drum shape while main-

taining the overall alignment between film and Clam shells.

Sensors and Safety Interlocks

The condition of each of the interlock sensors described below, as well as some

others whose operation is invisible to the operator, is reported to the host com-

puter. How the host software deals with these messages may be different for a

given host. Consult the documentation supplied with the RIP for more information.

Door interlock

The door interlock switch arrangement is made up of two (for redundancy) mag-

netic switches mounted in the cover of the imagesetter. These switches are acti-

vated by two magnets in the Base Plate of the machine when the door is closed.

These switches must be satisfied in order for the imagesetter to turn on the laser.

Out of Paper Sensor (OOPS)

The OOPS is located in the film supply compartment. When film is properly loaded

into the machine, the sensor is satisfied. When the film runs out or is removed the

sensor reports this to the imagesetter which inhibits any further imaging and

displays an Out of film message on the display.

Out of Cassette Switch (OOCS)

The OOCS is a magnetic switch located inside the imagesetter cabinet that senses

the presence of a magnet located in the Output Cassette. If the Output Cassette is

not mounted to the front of the cabinet, the imagesetter will not allow a film feed

from the front end. Film feeds from the imagesetter front panel are not inhibited. A

No cassette message will appear on the control panel.

In On Line Processor mode, this switch is activated by a magnet on the on-line

bridge that performs a similar function. In this case a OLP disengaged message

will be displayed on the front panel.

Chapter 3: Selecting Photographic Media 11

Photographic media requirements:

Film manufacturers are continuously making changes to their product lines to

enhance the performance of their products. Contact your re-seller for current

recommendations. Remember to specifiy length and width required. Use the

following information as general guidelines:

 Emulsion: 650 nanometer sensitivity (visible red), wound emulsion side

inwards.

 Material width: 13.3 – .040 inches (338 – 1.0 mm) for all Model 300s; 15.75” –

.040” inches (400 – 1.0 mm) for Model 400s

 Core: 2 inch (51 mm) inside diameter

 Thickness: up to 0.008 inches (0.2 mm) polyester film, plate and paper.

 Bulk load length: up to 250 feet (75 meters) for up to .005” (.12 mm) thick media

and 100 feet (30 meters) for up to .008” (.2 mm) thick media.

Differences in Density (Dmax)

Photographic media from different manufacturers varies greatly in sensitivity,

achievable Dmax, gamma - the exposure sharpness, and other factors which affect

overall image quality. Of these, the sensitivity of the media is the only factor that

the user can compensate for with the imagesetter. This is done with the Density:

adjustment. The Density: adjustment can also compensate for small changes in

processor performance. Further, many film manufacturer's products vary, albeit to a

lesser degree, from lot to lot, which may require further density compensation by

the user.

For this reason RIPit recommends testing

any photographic material before purchasing

large quantities.

Chapter 3: Selecting Photographic Media

Selecting Photographic

Media - Films, Paper

and Plates

12 SpeedSetter 300/400 Operator’s Manual

Darkroom Bulk Load and Daylight Bulk Load versus

Disposable Cassette

The film Supply Cassette supplied with the imagesetter will easily accommodate

bulk load films of up to 250 (75 meters) long of 0.005 inch thick material on a two (2)

inch (51 mm) core. Some daylight bulk load film packaging have caused problems

because of daylight protective packaging material interfering with the free motion

of the film. Should this occur, removing the remnents of the daylight load packag-

ing in a darkroom should fix the problem.

To date, several different manufacturers of 100 foot (30 meter) and 150 foot (45

meter) disposable cassettes have been used successfully. Some disposable cassettes

cause film feed problems because too much or an uneven force is required to pull

film from the cassette. Bulk load products tend to be less expensive and easier to get

than their disposable cassette counterparts. Each user has different requirements

and should at least feel free to try different products so as to best suit their needs.

Again, RIPit recommends thoroughly testing any photographic material before

committing to large quantities.

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Xanté SpeedSetter 400 Owner's manual

Xanté SpeedSetter 400 Owner's manual

Xanté SpeedSetter 400 Owner's manual

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