Installation &
Operation Manual
SpeedSetter 300
SpeedSetter 300X2 & 400
Document: 300.OM-ALL
Revsion: .02a
Revision Date: 13, October 2003
© Copyright RIPit Computer Corporation. 1992, 1994, 1996, 1997, 2003
All rights reserved. Reproduction, adaptation, or translation, for any purpose other than the purchaser’s personal use,
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
2
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 - 84F
(18 - 29C). 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 2F
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.
4
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
5
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
6
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
7
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.
8
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
9
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.
10
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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