What is a RIP Software and Why Do I Need It?

If you own or have been looking into investing in a white toner printer, such as the OKI 8432WT or OKI 9541WT, then you have probably heard that you should get a RIP software. However, you are probably asking yourself “What is RIP software for laser heat transfer and why do I need it?”

What is RIP software?

RIP stands for Raster Image Processing. Raster image processing software is a specialized print driver that allows you to have advanced control over the image and printing. RIP software takes an image and converts it into a high-resolution raster image among other photo editing and processing capabilities.

Raster images are also sometimes referred to as bitmaps. The software creates these raster images or bitmaps and allows for image editing, color customization and processes images for a specific printer and communicates the processed data for final output.

In addition to rasterizing, the software has many capabilities. RIP software offers a variety of color management controls and tools to ensure you have the best color match and you can scale, resize, rotate, and invert images.

Additionally, RIP software offers white toner controls so you can manage just how much white toner is being used. Some RIP software also has the ability to give you an estimated cost per print based on the amount of toner being used.

What are Raster Images?

RIP software takes a vector image, breaks it up and converts it into a high-definition image composed of a small matrix of dots. This image made of small pixels or dots is called a raster graphic or bitmap image.

Rasterization removes the negative or positive parts of the image depending on the color of the garment you’re transferring to. These are the parts that are not required when printing.  For instance, if an image has a lot of black in it, but you are printing on a black t-shirt, you can create a raster image that removes all the black toner from the print and utilizes the color of the shirt instead of wasting toner.

Benefits of RIP Software

The benefits of RIP software can be numerous and range from color customization, white toner controls, cost minimization, and improved quality of the print.

Rasterization

Rasterized images or bitmaps require less toner and allow for a better feel on the garment. In addition, rasterized images improve the durability and washability of a garment. Raster images last longer by minimizing cracking in the image and allowing more flexibility.

The raster images allow for water to pass through the image more easily during washing. This increases the longevity of the image.

With rasterization, you can save up to 35% on toner costs. This in combination with white toner controls allow for greater cost savings without compromising the image itself.

White Toner Controls

You can control the amount of white toner used while printing. By utilizing white toner controls, you can reduce your white toner cost by up to 25%. You can use the white toner controls in combination with rasterization to further reduce white toner costs by up to 60%. Thus, allowing you to increase your profit on each print.

By reducing the white toner output, you are left with a softer feel and improved color fastness. Your print will be lighter and smoother to the garment.

Color Management and Image Editing

RIP software allows you to customize and control the colors in your image for better color reproduction. You can more accurately color-match and adjust to customer’s specifications while still providing vibrant, high quality images.

In RIP software you can also rotate, flip, and adjust sizing for images. Use the color correction feature to replace colors and edit the hue, brightness, and saturation of an image. It allows for an all-in-one printing suite that allows you to manage colors, edit and rasterize images and control white toner levels. It offers preset color profiles based on the substrate color and paper being used.

Cost Estimator

Estimate the cost for every print job you run. By using information about the printer such as the toner cartridge, image drum, fuser unit, transfer belt and waste toner values, RIP software allows you to calculate the total price of 1 digital heat transfer print.

You can use this cost estimator to better price your items and provide more accurate price quotes to potential customers.

Do I Need RIP Software for Digital Transfer Printing?

In short, yes. If you’re wanting to increase the quality, durability, and washability of your transfers while also saving money on toner costs, you should most definitely have a RIP software to use.

Calculate the cost of thrown away misprints, the time it takes to rework files, and the cost of reprinting. Eliminating time spent on these issues allows you to increase productivity and efficiency.

Your white toner cartridges will last longer if you rasterize and control your white toner settings which means you’ll be spending drastically less on white toner replacements.

While RIP software can be relatively pricey, the benefits outweigh the costs. With an initial investment into a RIP software, you can save time and money in the long run.

Is There a RIP Software Recommended for White Toner Printing?

At ISW, we recommend FOREVER TransferRIP software. In addition to all the benefits listed above, TranserRIP also comes with pre-made settings for all FOREVER Transfer Papers, making it even easier on you. FOREVER TransferRIP works best in combination with FOREVER Transfer Media and OKI White Toner Printers. For tips and tricks, download our TransferRIP Cheat Sheet.

 

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