®

Basic Tutorial
 Table of Contents
I - Using Design Applications with VersaWorks
Photoshop…………………………………………………… Sec1:1
What is better, RGB or CMYK Color?……………………………… Sec1:1
What is an appropriate resolution for the image?… ……………… Sec1:4

Illustrator… ………………………………………………… Sec1:5

Placing an Image (Link or Embed?)………………………………… Sec1:5
Cutting with Illustrator 10.0 or later… ……………………………… Sec1:6

Printing from Applications… ……………………………… Sec1:8

Printing from Illustrator… …………………………………………… Sec1:8

Compatibility between Macintosh and Windows Files…Sec1:13

Opening Macintosh Files in Windows Applications… ………… Sec1:13
Adding File Extensions Automatically from Applications… …… Sec1:14
Preview Not Displaying when Placing a File in Illustrator……… Sec1:17

II - Getting the Most out of Roland VersaWorks

Using the Queue Properties… …………………………… Sec2:1
Setting the Queue A/B for Different Purposes… ………………… Sec2:1
Considerations when Setting Queue Properties… ……………… Sec2:2
Creating a Printer Driver for Queue B……………………………… Sec2:3

Color Management Settings… …………………………… Sec2:7

Simulation Profile and How It Affects the Output… ……………… Sec2:8
Role of Matching Methods and its Effects… ……………………… Sec2:9
Recommended Color Management Settings………………………Sec2:11
Recommended Color Management Settings 2… ……………… Sec2:12

Tiling the Job……………………………………………… Sec2:13

Tiling the Output… ………………………………………………… Sec2:13
Clipping……………………………………………………………… Sec2:14

Processing Time and File Size… ……………………… Sec2:16

How the Type of Data Affects Performance… ………………… Sec2:16
Using the Interpolation in the RIP………………………………… Sec2:17

Saving RIP Settings……………………………………… Sec2:18

Saving a Job File…………………………………………………… Sec2:18
Using Job Files… ………………………………………………… Sec2:19

Keeping VersaWorks Up-to-Date… …………………… Sec2:23

Introduction to Roland@NET… …………………………………… Sec2:23
Verifying for the Latest Version…………………………………… Sec2:23
Setting Automatic Update… ……………………………………… Sec2:26
Updating Computers without Internet Connection… ……………… Sec2:29
 I
Using Design
Applications with
VersaWorks
1 Photoshop
What is better, RGB or CMYK Color?
1) Differences between RGB and CMYK
a) What is RGB color?
This color space is commonly used by scanners, digital cameras
and monitors, and is the most common format for digital images.
It consists of 3 primary colors, Red (R), Green (G) and Blue (B).
Combining all 3 primary colors produces white (additive system)
and generates other colors by mixing various amount of Red,
Green and Blue.

Additive Color System = Color gets

light (white) as you add color.

b) What is CMYK color?

This color space is used in offset printing and by color printers in
general and is also called Process Color.
It consists of 4 colors with 3 primary colors (colorants) Cyan (C),
Magenta (M), Yellow (Y) plus the Black (K).
Combining all 3 primary colors produces black (subtractive sys-
tem) and generates other colors by mixing various amount of
Cyan, Magenta and Yellow. In theory, it is possible to represent
all colors using the 3 primary colors (CMY), but in reality, the
CMY black is not dark enough requiring the black ink to replace
the portion that the 3 colors overlap. Subtractive Color System = Color gets
dark (black) as you add color.

Visible Space
c) Differences between RGB and CMYK
Adobe RGB
The range of colors that can be represented in CMYK is different
sRGB
from RGB, therefore there will always be colors on the monitor
that are not reproduceable on the printer. This creates a need CMYK

for Color management either in the design application or in the

RIP, which converts the RGB colors (monitor) to CMYK colors
(printers) to reproduce the colors as close as possible.

I-1
2) Using Image Data (or Raster)
a) What is Image Data (raster)?
In general, image data or raster image is captured by RGB input devices such as scanners and digital
cameras. Therefore, image data is processed as RGB color data.

RGB

b) Image Data in Offset Printing

Offset press is a CMYK output device. Therefore, RGB image data has to be converted to CMYK image
data using applications such as Photoshop.

CMYK

c) Image Data in Inkjet Printing

In Inkjet Priting, the RIP takes care of CMYK color conversion. Converting the image data in CMYK in de-
sign application will duplicate the color conversion process causing losses in color reproduction.
Therefore, it is best to process the image data as RGB data.
(Leave as is if the data is already in CMYK color mode)

Data RIP VP-540

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d) Text and Drawings (Vector data)
Your computer monitor is an RGB device and is able to display vivid colors but the colors will not be repro-
duced with the same vividness when printed to an CMYK output device such as the printer.
Therefore, it is in general better to create the text and drawings in CMYK color for better color reproduc-
tion, as the output will be closer to the colors on the monitor.

Text data RIP VP-540

Tips How Roland VersaWorks processes the data

Roland VersaWorks is capable of processing both RGB and CMYK data. In order to achieve
vivid colors for images, it is recommended to create image data (raster) in RGB color. Text
and drawings (vector) should be created in CMYK color.

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What is an appropriate resolution for the image?
In offset printing, the recommended resolution for images is around 350 to 400ppi (ppi = pixels per inch).
For high quality output, 600ppi or more is recommended. For large format inkjet printing, there is no need
for such a high resolution image.
Large posters are usually meant to be seen from a distance, therefore there is no need for very high reso-
lution images. For signs viewed from a long distance, a low resolution image is usually enough.

Short viewing distance Long viewing distance

Representation of Posters and Big signs viewed from the same distance

Outputs from offset printing are usually meant to be viewed from a short distance, therefore high resolu-
tion is required. Using the same resolution for large format printing would translate into extremely large
files, making it very difficult to handle the files. In fact, it becomes very innefficient due to the extra time it
takes for storing, copying and processing the file.

Image Resolution for Large Format Printing

For large format printing, the recommended image resolution is between 75ppi to 150ppi at
Tips full size. By the other hand, if the original image resolution is low, the print quality will not im-
prove by increasing the image resolution from an application using interpolation algorithms.
The resolution of the original image must be as high as possible; if scanning, the highest
resolution should be used and then saved to a an appropriate lower resolution after all ad-
justments are made.

I-4
2 Illustrator
Placing an Image (Link or Embed?)
Adobe Illustrator CS3/CS2/CS/10/9 allows the selection of color mode for the document as an output set-
ting for the artwork. Photoshop is similar and you have to select the color mode between [RGB] and [CMYK]
when creating a new file.
This feature can cause differences in the output when placing an EPS file by linking or embedding.
For example, when the document color mode is set to CMYK, embedding an RGB image will cause the
image to be converted to CMYK, changing the color of the image.
For applications such as signs and banners where the saturation is important, it is recommended to link
when placing and RGB image.

Placing an RGB color EPS image in a CMYK document (Link or Embed)

<Link> <Embed>

<Simulated Output: Link> <Simulated Output: Embed>

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Cutting with Illustrator 10.0 or later

Roland VersaWorks features the latest version of genuine Adobe CPSI engine, providing maximum com-
patibility with the special effects in Illustrator such as [Transparency] and [Blur].
When using these complex transparency effects, some special settings may be necessary for proper print-
ing.
These effects may affect significantly the time a file takes to be processed, so it is recommended to do a
test run to make sure you have enough memory and hard disk space.
Also, when transparency or following special effects are used, the contour cut line may be printed rather
than cut.
• [Filter] → [Stylize] → [Drop Shadow]
• [Effect] → [Stylize] → [Feather]
• [Effect] → [Stylize] → [Drop Shadow]
• [Effect] → [Stylize] → [Outer Glow]
• [Effect] → [Stylize] → [Inner Glow]
• [Effect] → [Rasterize] (Only when [Background] is set to [Transparent])
• [Object] → [Rasterize] (Only when [Background] is set to [Transparent])
• [Window] → [Transparency] - When [Mode] is set to anything other than [Normal]
• [Window] → [Transparency] - When [Opacity] is set to anything other than [100%]
• [Window] → [Transparency] - When [Make Opacity Mask] is executed

Also when the [Background] is set to [Transparent] in [Document Raster Effects Settings] window, us-
ing the following commands from the [Effects] menu can cause the cut line to be printed as well:
[Blur], [Artistic], [Sharpen], [Sketch], [Texture], [Video], [Pixelate], [Brush Strokes], [Stylize], [Distort].

When the contour cut line is not recognized properly and is printed, changing the output settings in Il-
lustrator as described in the following page may correct the problem and the contour cut line may be
detected properly.
When creating the artwork: (1) Do not use transparency feature in the [Fill] or the [Stroke] on the object
that contains the contour cut line. (2) Make sure the contour cut line is on top of all other objects.

I-6
 ● Output Settings

A. Printing Directly from Illustrator

Select [File] → [Print] → [Advanced] → [Custom] and uncheck the option [Convert All Strokes to Out-
lines] as shown below. In addtion, set the [Raster/Vector Balance] slider to 75.

Verify the settings, click [OK] and return to [Print] dialog, and then click [Print]. This will send the print
file to VersaWorks.

B. Printing after Saving as EPS File

Select [File] → [Save As] → select [Illustrator EPS] in [Format] → type the file name and click [Save
As] → if a warning about the use of spot color with transparency is displayed, click [Continue] → in [EPS
Options] dialog, click [Custom] for [Transparency] and uncheck the option [Convert All Strokes to Out-
lines] as shown below. In addition, adjust the [Raster/Vector Balance] slider to 75.

Confirm the settings and click [OK] → return to [EPS Options] dialog and click [OK]. The EPS file will
be saved in the designated folder. Load the EPS file in VersaWorks and verify that the cut line is set
properly.

The job preview in VersaWorks can show if the contour cut line has been correctly recog-
Tips
nized. Make sure to always check the preview before sending the file to the printer. If the
contour cut line is displayed as an animated dotted line as shown at the left, the file will be
cut. A cut line incorrectly set will not display as a dotted line, as shown at the right.

I-7
3 Printing from Applications
Printing from Illustrator
A.This section illustrates the steps to create a 30 in (W) x 40 in (H) poster in Illustrator and print using Ver-
saWorks.

—— Step by Step Instructions ——

a) Create a new file.

b) Set the artboard.

Select [Custom] for [Size] and enter 30 in for [Width] and 40 in for [Height].
Select [CMYK] for [Color Mode].

c) Place the image as a link.

I-8
d) Arrange the image to fit within the borders of the artboard.

e) Save the file.

* If the file is not saved, the file name will be displayed as [Untitled] in VersaWorks.

f) Click [Print] to set the printing parameters.

I-9
g) Set the following parameters.
[Printer] = [RolandVW]

[PPD] = [Roland VersaWorks]

[Size] = Select [Custom] and enter a

size that is slightly bigger than
the artboard

[Width] = 30.5 in Height = 40.5 in

(A 0.5 in margin was added for extra
white space)

h) Click [Print] to send the file to VersaWorks.

i) The file is added to the queue in VersaWorks.

I-10
 B.Creating a PS File from Illustrator and Printing
Tips
Creating a PS File
By saving the file as a PS file from Illustrator, the file can be quickly printed by dragging &
dropping the file into VersaWorks.

a) Open the file "kimono1.ai" created in the previous example.

b) Click [Print] and set the printing parameters (See the previous section for details).

c) Click [Setup].

I-11
d) Check the option [Print to file] and click [Print].
(Note that clicking [Print] here will not start the printing yet)

e) Clicking [Print] will display the [Print to File] dialog. Select the folder to save the PS file, enter the file
name and click [Save].
(In this example the file name Kimono1.ps is used)

f) Load the file into VersaWorks by dragging and dropping the PS file into the queue window on the lower
left section of VersaWorks.

I-12
4 Compatibility between
Macintosh and Windows Files
Opening Macintosh Files in Windows Applications
Macintosh and Windows use different methods to determine the file type and Windows may not recognize
a Macintosh file correctly as is.
In Windows, files must have an extension which determines the file type. In contrast, Macintosh embeds
the file type information within the file and the files are usually saved without any extension.
Therefore, when saving a file from Macintosh that will be used in Windows, a file extension must be add-
ed.

File Extension Description File Extension Description

****.ai → Illustrator file ****.eps → EPS file
****.psd → Photoshop file ****.ps → PostScript file
****.pdf → Acrobat file **.tiff or .**tif → TIFF image file
****.txt → Text file ****.jpg → JPEG image file

I-13
Adding File Extensions Automatically from Applications
Macintosh does not use file extensions but some applications have the ability to add file extensions auto-
matically to facilitate the exchange of files with Windows. In this section Illustrator 10 and Photoshop 7 are
used as examples (Illustrator 9/CS and Photoshop CS also work in a similar way. Illustrator CS2/CS3 and
Photoshop CS2/CS3 will add the file extensions by default).

—— Example of Settings ——
Illustrator 10 Settings
a) From [Prefereces], open [Files & Clipboard].

b) Set [Append Extension] to [Always].

c) The file extension is automatically added

when saving a file.

I-14
 Photoshop 7 Settings
a) In [Preferences], open [File Handling].

b) Set [Append File Extension] to [Always].

c) The file extension is automatically added

when saving a file.

I-15
Tips Windows is set to hide the file extensions by default and it is recommended to change this
settings to always display them as shown below. This will facilitate the identification of file
types from Macintosh.
a) Open [Control Panel] and open [Folder Options].

b) In the [View] tab, uncheck the option [Hide extensions for known file types] in [Files and
Folders] section.

c) The file extension of all files will be displayed as shown below.

I-16
Preview Not Displaying when Placing a File in Illustrator
Sometimes, Photoshop EPS files that are placed as links in Adobe Illustrator may not display the preview
of the image.
This problem can be corrected by following one of the procedures below.

A. Changing Settings in Illustrator

Change the option in Illustrator [Preferences] so that it will not use the low resolution preview of linked
EPS files. Start Illustrator, select [Edit] → [Preferences] → [Files & Clipboard] and uncheck the option
[Use Low resolution Proxy for Linked EPS] as illustrated below. Click [OK] and then open the file.

B. Editing the original EPS file in Photoshop

The preview can be displayed correctly by changing the preview setting when saving the file as Pho-
toshop EPS.
Open the original EPS file in Photoshop and select [File] → [Save As]. Select [Photoshop EPS] as a
file format and click [Save]. In [EPS options], select either [TIFF (1 bit/pixel)] or [TIFF (8 bits/pixel)] for
[Preview] and click [OK].

Photoshop for Macintosh has options such as [Macintosh (1 bit/pixel)], [Macintosh (8 bits/pixel)] and
[Macintosh (JPEG)] when saving as EPS files, but the preview of files saved with these options will
only display correctly in the Macintosh environment. If you want to share the file between Windows
and Macintosh, use one of the TIFF options.

I-17
 II
Getting the Most out of
Roland VersaWorks
1 Using the Queue Properties
Setting the printing parameters in [Queue Properties] is a very effective way to save time and avoid simple
mistakes when you need to print multiple jobs with identical settings.

Setting the Queue A/B for Different Purposes

The 2 queues (A and B) in VersaWorks can be configured independently for different workflow allowing a
quick way to switch from one setting to another. Also, queues can be configured for most commonly used
media and print modes, eliminating the time spent in configuring each job, increasing the productivity.

Sample Settings
1) Setting the Queues for Different Print Quality
• Queue A = Glossy Vinyl, High Quality • Queue B = Glossy Vinyl, Standard

2) Setting the Queues for Different Cutting Workflow

• Queue A = Print & Cut • Queue B = Cut Only

[Print Quality] is where the majority of mistakes in settings are made. It is very common to
Tips
overlook the [Media Type] or [Print Quality] and print with wrong settings. Also details of [Color
Management] settings are not completely visible from this screen, so special attention is re-
quired.

II-1
Considerations when Setting Queue Properties
Most settings can be set either in [Queue Properties] or [Job Settings] but some settings can only be set
in either one of them. Jobs inherits the settings from Queue Properties when they are added to the queue.
Changes in Queue Properties will not affect the jobs that are already in the queue. To change the settings
of jobs that are in the queue, use Job Settings.

1) Layout Settings 2) Cut Controls

In [Scaling], Width [Cut All Paths] can
([W]) and Height ([H]) only be set in Queue
in [Scaling] cannot be Properties.
set in Queue Proper-
ties but [Scale] can.
[Orientation] cannot
be set in Queue Prop-
erties either.

3) Job Management 4) Clip and Tile

[Input Folder] and [Clipping] and [Til-
[Action for Incoming ing] cannot be set in
Jobs] can only be set Queue Properties.
in Queue Properties.

Features Queue Properties Job Settings

Scaling [Scale] Only P
Layout
Orientation O P
File Format EPS Margin P O
Cut Controls Cut All Paths P O
Job Management Action for Incoming Jobs P O
Clip and Tile Clipping and Tiling O P

Tips Setting [Queue Properties] with the most commonly used settings can greatly reduce simple
mistakes.

II-2
Creating a Printer Driver for Queue B
The default VersaWorks Windows (RolandVW) driver is configured to send the data to Queue A. If you
want to use the Queue B when printing from applications such as Illustrator, you have to create another
printer driver for the Queue B.
By creating a printer driver for the Queue B, you will be able to use both queues even when sending the
job from design applications.

Illustrator CS Print Settings

Select [RolandVW_A] when sending the job
to Queue A.

Select [RolandVW_B] when sending the job

to Queue B.

—— Setting the Versa-B Driver ——

1) Change the printer driver name
a) In Windows XP, click [Start] to display the
Start menu and then click [Printer and Fax-
es]. In Windows Vista, click [Start] > [Control
Panel] and open [Printers].

b) Rename the current VersaWorks printer

driver in the Printer and Faxes folder.
RolandVW → RolandVW_A

II-3
2) Create the Versa-B Port and the Printer Driver
a) In [Printers], click [Add a printer].

b) Click [Add a local printer].

c) Select [Create a new port] and select [Versa File

Port] in [Type of port].

d) Type [VERSA-B] in [Port Name] and click [OK].

II-4
e) In [Port Configure] window click on the button
highlighted in RED.

f) In [Browse for Folder] select the [Input-B] folder

and click [OK]. This will bring back the [Port Con-
figure] window, so click [OK] again.
(By default, [Input-B] folder is located in [C:\Pro-
gram Files\Roland VersaWorks\VersaWorks\In
put-B]).

g) In [Install the printer driver] window, select [Manu-

facturer = Roland], [Printers = Roland Versa-
Works] and click [Next].

h) Select [Use the driver that is currently installed]

and click [Next].

II-5
i) Type [RolandVW_B] in [Printer name] and click
[Next].

j) Click [Finish].

II-6
2 Color Management Settings
Color management settings can be customized in [Color Management Properties].

Color Management Properties

• There are 8 types of Color Management settings

pre-configured for most common color workflows.
• [ Custom] allows the combination any available
settings.
• Support for embedded profiles.

Perceptual
Colorimetric
Saturation
Absolute
Calibration and Ink Limit
Calibration

Simulation Target Profiles (*.icc) Matching Method Preserve

Use Embedded
Preset Primary
RGB CMYK Raster Vector ICC Profile
Colors
Pre-Press U.S. AdobeRGB1998 USWebCoatedSWOP Colorimetric Colorimetric £ S
Pre-Press Europe ↓ EuroscaleCoated ↓ ↓ £ S
Pre-Press Japan sRGB ColorSpaceProfile JapanStandard ↓ ↓ £ S
MAX Impact Roland_SignRGB Roland_SignCMYK ↓ ↓ £ £
Sign & Display AdobeRGB1998 JapanStandard ↓ ↓ S £
MAX Density U.S. ↓ USWebCoatedSWOP Colorimetric Calibration and Ink Limit £ S
MAX Density Japan ↓ JapanColor97 ↓ ↓ S S
Density Control Only ↓ JapanStandard Calibration and Ink Limit ↓ £ £
Custom - - - - - -

II-7
Simulation Profile and How It Affects the Output

1) Differences between each RGB input profiles

a) sRGB Color Space Profile:
This profile represents an average computer moni-
tor. The color gamut is relatively small and may clip
important areas in the printable color space. It also
produces relatively flat looking colors.

b) AdobeRGB1998:
It is the most recommended RGB working space
for a wide variety of printing applications. It also
produces relatively bright images.

c) Roland_SignRGB
This Roland profile has a color gamut that is slightly bigger than the AdobeRGB 1998 and is designed to
produce vivid and saturated colors.

2) Differences among each CMYK Input Profiles

a) DIC_Standard_Color_SFC_1_0_2:
This is a standard DIC color profile and produces
colors with good contrast.

b) EuroscaleCoated/EuroscaleUncoated:
This is the European Prepress Standard color pro-
file based on Euroscale.

c) JapanColor97:
This is the Japanese Prepress Standard color pro-
file. It produces overall saturated colors.

d) JapanStandard:
Profile created by Adobe for the Japanese Prepress. It generates slightly light colors.

e) Roland_SignCMYK
This Roland profile has a color gamut that is bigger than SWOP and is designed to produce vivid and
saturated colors.

f) TOYO Offset Coat 1.1:

Toyo Ink Standard Color profile.It generates slightly light colors.

g) USWebCoatedSWOP/USWebUncoated:
US Prepress SWOP Standard Color Profile. It is the most common CMYK profile used in United States.

II-8
Role of Matching Methods and its Effects
VersaWorks has the ability to process bitmap (Raster) and Vector data separately.

Raster
(Bitmap)

Vector

1) Guide to Matching Methods

a) Guide to Rendering Intents (Matching Method)
[Perceptual]:
Converts the color to look natural to the human eyes. This is best for photographic images.
[Colorimetric]:
Produces more accurate colors than [Perceptual].
[Saturation]:
Color conversion ideal for graphs and pie charts with priority in the vividness of colors.
[Absolute]:
Not commonly used. Used mainly for proofing.

b) Guide to Proprietary Conversion Methods Available in VersaWorks

[Calibration and Ink Limit] and [Calibration] differ from the methods described in a) in a way that the
colors are printed as is in the input data. No ICC profile is applied and no matching is performed. There-
fore, it should only be used for vector data and not for bitmaps (raster).

[Calibration and Ink Limit]:

Uses the ink limit information from the media avoiding the oversaturation even with CMYK composite
colors with 300% of ink. Note that oversaturation may still occur if you are not using the media which
the profile was created for.
[Calibration]:
Ink is not limited and it may oversaturate around 250% or more. Also puddling may occur. Note that on
some media, puddling can even cause the color density to drop.

Tips When printing files which include objects with transparency overlapping other objects,
the matching method should be both set to the same method such as Colorimetric -
Colorimetric .

II-9
2) Printing Pure Colors
Check the option [Preserve Primary Colors] when you want to print colors avoiding the mixing of second-
ary colors.
This will suppress the mixing of unwanted colors, preserving the purity of colors.
Selecting [Perceptual] or [Saturation] will produce colors that are slightly faded and [Calibration] will pro-
duce dark colors. [Colorimetric/Absolute] will produce colors with good balance.

Tips What is secondary color?

Even though colors are defined as pure colors such as C100 or Y100 in Illustrator, the matching
method in the RIP may cause other colors to be added in the output. This additional unspecified
color is called secondary color.

Data = Y100 Output with Preserve Primary Color

Secondary Color

3) Using Embedded Profiles

When profiles are embedded in the images, check the option [Use Embedded ICC Profile]. This will repli-
cate the color settings used in the creation of image eliminating the need to set the matching input profiles
in VersaWorks, providing output that better matches the color tone of original image.

II-10
Recommended Color Management Settings

1) [Simulation Target Profiles]

[RGB]
• Use [AdobeRGB1998] which provides wider color gamut.

[CMYK]
• Use [USWebCoatedSWOP] which is the standard for the US Pre-press.

2) [Matching Method]
[Raster]
• Use [Colorimetric] if the images were prepared for pre-press.
• Use [Perceptual] if you want output with vivid colors.

[Vector]
[Colorimetric]:
This is the most recommended setting. This option
will produce smooth gradients with good tonal range
(remember to check the [Preserve Primary Colors]
option).
[Calibration and Ink Limit]:
This will produce richer colors than [Relative] and
the ink limit will ensure that the ink will not bleed.
However there will be no color matching and the
colors will be printed as they are defined in the origi-
nal file. Also puddling may appear in some colors.

II-11
Recommended Color Management Settings 2

Select the Preset [MAX Impact].

Selecting this will automatically set the [Simulation Target Profiles]

and [Matching Method].

1) [Simulation Target Profiles]

[RGB]
[Roland_SignRGB.icc] with slightly wider color
gamut than AdobeRGB1998..

[CMYK]
[Roland_SignCMYK.icc] with wider color gamut
than USWebCoatedSWOP.

2) [Matching Method]
[Raster] & [Vector]
[Colorimetric]
[Preserve Primary Colors] and [Use Embed-
ded ICC Profiles] are unchecked.

Tips What is puddling?

When the media is not compatible or the amount of ink is too high, the ink will not penetrate
into the media and will stay on top of the surface. This makes the printed surface look as if
the ink drops are accumulating.

Good Excessive ink accumulation

II-12
3 Tiling the Job
Tiling the Output

1) Overlap Type
a) What is Top-Left?
The upper left tile goes on top and the overlap is added on the tile below and at right.

Tiling

b) What is ALL Corners?

The overlap is evenly split at dividing line and added to all 4 sides.

Tiling

2) Overlap Settings
Black trim marks are automatically added when overlap type (Top-Left, ALL Corners) is selected.
In addition, checking the option [Print Overlap Lines] will also print the overlap lines.
You can set the line width (0.003 in ~ 0.019in or 0.100mm ~ 0.500mm) and the color for the overlap line.
Width and the color can be adjusted according to your job, facilitating the alignment of tiles when applying
your large format output.

Trim mark Overlap line

II-13
Clipping
A section of the image can be selected by mouse or by entering the values numerically and printed.
Only the portion selected for printing is processed providing faster processing.

—— Step by Step Procedure ——

a) Add the job in VersaWorks and open [Job Settings].

b) Click [Clip and Tile].

II-14
c) Select the area for printing with the mouse.
In this example the area with the flower is selected and then [OK] is clicked.

The area can also be specified

numerically.

Tips
Tiling and Clipping with the Mouse
Fig.1
Moving the mouse on top of red line displays the cursor
shown in Fig.1. Moving this mark will define the area for
Clipping printing. The area that will not print is displayed in gray.
Fig.2
Moving the mouse on top of blue line displays the cursor
shown in Fig.2. Moving this mark will define the tiles for
Tiling printing.

d) Click [Print]. The area with the flower as specified in [Clip and Tile] is printed.

II-15
4 Processing Time and File Size
VersaWorks processes the files very efficiently but the processing time depends on the type of data and
the settings for processing. This section will consider several factors that affect the performance.

How the Type of Data Affects Performance

In each case, the comparison was done printing a 1 square meter (approximately 10.76 sqft) job.

1) Vector Data
Black spot color vs. Gradient
With [Preserve Primary Color] option checked,
the black is processed as a single color. There-
fore the RIP processing time is faster and the
output file size is smaller. Unchecking this op-
tion will print black as a composite black.
A B

2) Scaling
Scaling the image in Photoshop or within the
RIP will not affect the output file size. Also the
RIP processing time is almost the same if the
number of pixels is kept unchanged.

C D

3) Tiling
The time VersaWorks takes to RIP a job split
in two pieces or a single tile job is almost the
same. Processing only one of tiles on a 2-tile job
will be faster as VersaWorks will only process
the selected tile, which will be also similar to the E
time to process a file that was tiled in Illustrator.

RIP Processing Time for Different Data Types F

A: Black A: Black Square 2 B: Square C: Photo D: Photo E: Single F: Tiling in

Square (Preserve Primary) Gradient Fill (EPS) Scale=1000% Tile Job the RIP
RIP Time (min : sec) 2:25 2:20 2:22 3:02 3:03 6:15 3:52
Output File Size 1.7GB 0.5GB 1.1GB 1.3GB 1.3GB 1.97GB 1.04GB

II-16
Using the Interpolation in the RIP
Similar to resizing the image in Photoshop with [Re-
sample Image] option, the RIP performs interpolation
when processing the image. Using this feature, it is
possible to enhance the apparent resolution minimiz-
ing the jaggies when enlarging the image.

1) Interpolation Methods
Nearest Neighbor: Comparison of Interpolation Methods
A fast but less precise method that replicates the
pixels in an image.
Bilinear:
Creates pixels by averaging the color of surround-
ing pixels, producing smooth tonal gradations.
Bicubic:
Similar to Bilinear, produces smooth tonal grada-
Nearest Neighbor Bicubic
tions with enhanced edges.

2) Processing Times and Interpolation Methods

Using the Nearest Neighbor as a reference, Bilinear takes approximately 1.5 times and Bicubic takes ap-
proximately 2 times longer for processing. The interpolation method has almost no effect in the output file
size.

For large format posters, this feature will not produce dramatic improvements in the output. In general,
you should use the default Nearest Neighbor settings. If the quality of output is important, use this feature
after considering the cost/benefit of added processing time.

Processing Times of Different Interpolation Methods

Nearest Neighbor Bilinear Bicubic PRT Data Size

200% Enlargement 23 sec 35 sec 43 sec 138MB
400% Enlargement 1 min 22 sec 2 min 10 sec 2 min 29 sec 550MB
600% Enlargement 3 min 4 sec 4 min 42 sec 5 min 54 sec 1237MB
PC = Pentium 4 - 3.2Ghz / 1GB RAM / 160GB HDD / Windows XP Pro
Data = BlueA4.tiff 11.3MB

II-17
5 Saving RIP Settings
Having the ability to save the RIP settings is very useful when you have repeated requests for re-prints or
when you need to reprint part of the job for repairing a damaged sign.
In order to help you with requests for re-prints, VersaWorks allows you to save the job settings.
If you save the job settings after the job is printed, you can quickly duplicate the job when the customer
requests a re-print.

Saving a Job File

There are three (3) types of job format for re-print.

1. RVW Job File (*.rvw)

This format saves only the printing settings such as media width, number of copies and profiles. The origi-
nal design file is not included but it includes a reference to it, so all the printing settings are applied after
the original design file is loaded.
It is important to note that the original design file in a format supported by VersaWorks must also be
saved.
Note that when printing directly from a design application, the original file will not be available in a format
supported by VersaWorks, so you will not be able to re-print this type of job.

¢ Notes on the usage

a) When using design applications such as Illustrator, save the file as a PS (or EPS) file before loading in
VersaWorks for printing. Although you can still save as RVW job file even when printing directly from a
design application, the job file is deleted when the job is deleted from the queue, and therefore you will
not be able to load the RVW job file in VersaWorks.
For the same reason, save the original TIFF or EPS file when printing photographic images.
b) RVW job file records the folder location where the design file is
stored, so it is recommended to add the job to the VersaWorks
queue after the design file has been saved to a data folder. After
printing, save the RVW job file into the same data folder. When either
file is moved to a different folder, VersaWorks will show a message
prompting to locate the file.
For this reason, always save the RVW job file along with
the job file such as EPS file as a set.

2. RVW Job + Source File (*.rvw)

This format saves the design file and the printing settings as a single file. The file size is bigger than the
RVW job file but there is no need to save the original design file separately.

II-18
3. PRT File (*.prt)
This format saves the RIPed data. This data cannot be loaded in VersaWorks queue but can be sent to
the printer using the command [Send Native File].
PRT file can be printed directly without any processing, but no settings can be changed.

Using Job Files

1) Saving RVW Job Files

A) Saving Method
a) Select the job you want to save from the
queue with the mouse.

b) Click on the [Save] button in the Job

Tool Bar.

c) Save the file by selecting [RVW Job

File (*.rvw)] or [RVW Job + Source File
(*.rvw)] in [Save as type] list and enter
the file name.

II-19
B) Using the RVW job files
a) Load the RVW job file in VersaWorks.

b) VersaWorks will automatically load the

source files and apply the output settings
used at the time the file was saved.

II-20
2) Saving PRT Native Files
A) Saving Method
a) Select the job you want to save from the
queue with the mouse.

b) Click on the [Save] button in the Job Tool

Bar.

c) Save the file by selecting [PRT File (*.prt)] in

[Save as type] list and enter the file name.

II-21
B) Using PRT files
a) Select [Send Native Files] from the [Printer]
menu.

b) Locate and select the PRT file.

c) Opening the PRT file will start the transfer

and the printing starts.

II-22
6 Keeping VersaWorks Up-to-Date
Introduction to Roland@NET
“Roland@NET” is a software update service over the Internet to keep VersaWorks always up-to-date.

1) Automatic Update
Monitors and notifies the user of availability of updates at an interval of time specified by the user to keep
VersaWorks up-to-date.

2) Updates to RIP and Media Profiles

Downloads updates to the RIP system and also to the media profiles over the Internet.

3) Self Detection of Updates

Performing either Automatic update or Manual update, will automatically analyze your system and deter-
mine whether an update is necessary.

Verifying for the Latest Version

1) Verifying for the Latest Version Information

—— Step by Step Procedure ——

a) Close VersaWorks and restart Win-

dows.
b) From Windows Start menu, select [All
Programs] and select [Online Update]
from [Roland VersaWorks] sub-menu.

c) The [Manual Update] window is dis-

played.

II-23
d) Select [Settings] > [Preferences] to open [Pref-
erences] window.

e) If your network uses Proxy, enter the server

information in [Proxy Server] section.
In [Update Options], check the options [Down-
load Updates for ALL Languages] and [Down-
load Media and Color Profiles] and select [ALL
Available Updates].

f) Click on the URL at the bottom of [Manual Up-

date] window.

g) VersaWorks Update page is displayed. Click

on [English] button.

II-24
 h) [VersaWorks Update Information] page is dis-
played.

Check the detailed update information and for

warnings when updating.

2) Detecting and Updating

a) After checking the information above, click
on [Check for updates] whether an update is
necessary. This will analyze your system and
determine if an update is required.

b) A message like the one at right means that no

update is required. Click [OK] to close.

c) Click [Update] if an update is necessary. This

will download and install the updates automat-
ically.
Depending on your Internet connection speed,
traffic and the size of update files, the up-
date may take several hours to complete, so
choose a later time to update if you have jobs
with tight deadlines to be delivered.
A series of DOS prompt windows may display
when the updates are being applied. Please
do NOT close any of these windows until you
are prompted to do so.

II-25
Setting Automatic Update
In order to keep VersaWorks always up-to-date, it is recommended to set the Automatic Update feature.
When this is set, VersaWorks will check for the availability of updates and update the software automati-
cally.

—— Step by Step Procedures ——

1) Setting Automatic Update

a) Launch VersaWorks.
b) Double-click on the computer icon in Versa-
Works window.

c) In [Preferences], select the [Roland@NET]

tab.

II-26
d) Check the option [Check for Updates Automati-
cally and Notify].

e) Select how often you want to check for updates

from the [Frequency] list.

f) If your network uses Proxy, enter the Proxy Serv-

er information.

g) Click [OK] to close the [Preferences] window. The

Roland@NET connection icon will become ac-
tive.

II-27
2) When an Update is Available
a) When launching VersaWorks, the window at right
will be displayed.
b) Click on the Update Information URL at the bot-
tom of this window.

c) VersaWorks Update page is displayed. Select the

language of your choice.

d) Check the information provided in [VersaWorks

Update Information] page. Click [Update] if you
want to proceed with the update.

Check for detailed update information and for

warnings when updating.

e) Updates are downloaded and applied automati-

cally.
Depending on your Internet connection speed,
traffic and the size of update files, the update may
take up to several hours to complete, so choose
a later time to update if you have jobs with tight
deadlines to be delivered.
A series of DOS prompt windows may display
when the updates are being applied. Please do
NOT close any of these windows until you are
prompted to do so.

II-28
Updating Computers without Internet Connection
If the computer with VersaWorks is not connected to the Internet or you do not have broadband Internet
connection, your dealer should be able to provide an Offline Updater or contact our technical support.

—— Step by Step Procedures ——

1) Updating VersaWorks
a) Restart Windows and copy the Offline Updater (usually provided in a zip compressed file format) to
the computer with Roland VersaWorks.

b) Uncompress the zip file using utilities widely available on the Internet or the built-in zip support from
Windows (Vista or XP only).

In Windows, right click on the zip file and select [Extract All] from the menu. Specify the folder you
want to store the updater files and click [Extract] or [Next].

II-29
c) Open the folder with the updater files and double-click on the [LocalUpdater.exe].

d) Click [Check for updates].

This will automatically check your system and update the software.

If the following message is displayed, it means that your system is up-to-date.

Click [OK] to close.

II-30
Copyright © 2005-2007 Roland DG Corporation
• No part of this publication (whether in hardcopy or electronic form) may be reproduced or transmitted, in any form or any means, electronic, mechanical,
photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written consent of the publisher.
• VersaWorks is a registered trademark of Roland DG Corporation.
• Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
• Macintosh, MacOS are registered trademarks of Apple, Inc.
• Adobe, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, PostScript, PostScript 3 and PostScript logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Adobe Systems Inc.
• All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
®

Created 2007/12/4
Ver.2.30