Category Archives: Tips & Advice

The Top Ten RIP Upgrade Related Questions

Article Provided By Xitron

When discussing upgrade options with RIP owners, there are a few questions that come up in every conversation. I thought it might be helpful to go through them here:

1. What’s different in the new RIP?

The answer to this question varies depending on the current RIP version and the manufacturer. However there are a few common denominators such as faster RIP speeds, better memory management, improved interpretive accuracy (especially when dealing with transparency), faster trapping, and of course, bug fixes.

2. Can I run the new RIP on my old platform?

If it is on a relatively new PC running at least Windows 7 64-bit. Version 12, which is the currently shipping release will only run on a 64-bit OS. That being the case, you should take a look at the RAM population in the PC and consider moving it up to at least 8GB since the RIP can actually address all the RAM available now.

3. My old RIP had some options like CIP3 and trapping. Do I have to pay for those again?

No. All options currently assigned to your license transfer to the new installation.

4. Can I install the upgrade myself?

Perhaps. It really depends on your skill level and knowledge of the RIP. However, it might be to your advantage to have a Xitron Support Specialist handle it for you over Team Viewer. The cost is negligible and the installation success is guaranteed. Plus, they’ll migrate all your old settings into the new RIP so configurations don’t have to be rebuilt.

5. My old RIP was an RTI (or Compose, ECRM, or HighWater) brand. What’s the difference and why will you be installing a Navigator RIP?

The only real difference is the brand name in the splash screen shown when launching the RIP. They are all based on the Harlequin core, and function in exactly the same way with the same menus. Because Xitron negotiated for the rights to these licenses, we can now consolidate all these brands to Navigator, the most popular and well known brand among Harlequin software RIPs.

6. Are there any other advantages to changing brands during the upgrade?

Many. Xitron supplied the output interfaces to RTI, Compose, and HighWater for many years. In essence, you are now working with the manufacturer of the hardware instead of an OEM. Also, Xitron (at your discretion) can add functionality through the optional Navigator workflow module, which offers many time-saving and productive features to enhance your prepress throughput.

7. Will I have to replace my current CTP interface?

Not if you are already using the USB (blue box) interface. However, if your current interface is a PCI card installed within the computer, you will. This is because most RIP manufacturers eliminated support for PCI cards years ago. There are no PCI drivers available for the 64-bit OS.

8. I’m thinking about changing my CTP also. What kind of problems will that cause?

Probably none at all. If the new CTP is coming from the same manufacturer of the old engine, the USB interface will probably drive the new one. If the new engine is from a different manufacturer, a replacement interface is likely available for a small additional charge. If the new engine comes with its own TIFF catcher, then we’ll simply need to verify that the TIFF out option is enabled in the current RIP license.

9. I’ve heard that the latest version doesn’t use a dongle. Is that true?

Partially. Dongles were eliminated and replaced with “soft locks,” or codes beginning with version 10 of the RIP. However, many users prefer having a dongle so that the software can be moved and loaded on other platforms for back up. If you prefer a dongle, you can still get one for a small fee.

10. I’d like to make this as seamless as possible. How can Xitron assist me?

Investigate the bundle upgrade package. It includes the platform, software pre-installed, a new interface if necessary, remote installation support from a Xitron specialist, three-year computer warranty, and 90 days of technical support. We migrate all your settings and help get you up and going in the shortest time possible.

Mid-State Litho (MSL) is an authorized distributor of Xitron Workflow and RIP solutions. Learn more about Xitron Software here.

Click here to view original article!

Mid-State Litho, Inc.
 5459 fenton Rd.
Flint, MI 48507
www.midstatelitho.net
 PH: 810.238.7370

Why Should I Upgrade My RIP?

Why Should I Upgrade My RIP?

Why Should I Upgrade My RIP?

Article provided by: Xitron, September 2018

It should come as no surprise that this is the most often-asked question when it comes to prepress RIPs and workflows. Given a couple of minutes, prepress managers, printing company owners, and even prepress operators can come up with a list of reasons/clichés against upgrading. By far, the most popular is, “There’s nothing really wrong with my current RIP.”

Depending on the kind of work you do, that may actually be true. If you’re running relatively simple jobs that are light on complexity or color content, a RIP upgrade may not pass the price/performance ratio test. But, if you handle a lot of jobs submitted from outside sources, you never really know what you’re going to get and that could spell trouble with a large dollar sign.

I recently heard from a user whose RIP software was several years old. His dealer had tried to convince him that he was overdue for an upgrade but he resisted spending the money to bring it current. Shortly thereafter he found himself eating a $6,000 print job because elements were missing and nobody noticed until the job was delivered. The PDF submitted for printing contained multiple transparency layers and his old RIP was not able to interpret it properly.

In this particular example you could fault the shop’s quality control as much as the RIP. After all, there are many prepress tools to help operators catch mistakes before its too late, not the least of which is good proofing method. But the fact remains, if your RIP is current, you eliminate the lion’s share of issues caused by inaccurate interpretation.

MSL
5459 Fenton Rd.
Flint, MI 48507
PH: 810.238.7370
www.midstatelitho.net

Eliminate security risks with MSL’s Flint Shredders

Eliminate security risks with MSL's Flint Shredders

Eliminate security risks with MSL’s Flint Shredders

As spring inches closer and closer, we wanted to share a few interesting facts and tips on shredding to help get you ready for some good spring cleaning!

Did You Know: According to a 1988 Supreme Court Ruling (California vs. Greenwood), when a person throws something out, that item is now the public domain. Any piece of material may be taken without permission.
  • Tip: Use shredded paper in your compost pile.
  • Tip: Donate shredded paper to animal shelters.
  • Did You Know: Approximately 1 bag of cross cut paper shreds equals 5 bags of straight cut paper shreds.

Security and liability are concerns for every business owner. Eliminate risk with MSL’s Flint Shredders’ line of commercial paper shredders and hard drive shredding machines. We carry a wide model range and variety of paper shredders. Contact us for additional information or CLICK HERE to check out our models.

Mid-State Litho, Inc.
Flint Shredders
5459 Fenton Rd.
Flint, MI 48507
www.midstatelitho.net
www.flintshredders.com

Knife Care Tips from Challenge Machinery

challenge-paper-cutter-knife_12

Knife Care Tips from Challenge Machinery

KNIFE SAFETY ! Knives are DANGEROUS!!! They are heavy and very sharp, even after use. Keep the edge away from your body and keep the area clear of others when handling knives. Never touch the cutting edge! To prevent personal injury and damage to the knife, always keep knives in their holders with screws tightened. You are aware of the dangers, but others may not be. Never attempt to hone, polish, or service the knife in any way. Failure to follow safety procedures may result in severe lacerations or dismemberment.

Knife Blade Life

Knife blade life, or the time between sharpenings, can be affected by many factors. One important factor is the type of paper being cut. Abrasive paper, such as recycled paper, soft paper such as newsprint paper, and bound books can all significantly shorten knife blade life. Also, if the knife depth is set too deep, the knife will cut too deep into the cutting stick and can dull the knife blade.

A knife can last anywhere between 2,000 and 5,000 cuts before it needs to be sharpened. Cutting soft paper (such as newsprint paper) or paper with high post-consumer recycled content can cause the knife to need sharpening after only 2,000 to 3,000 cuts. Cutting pure paper, such as bond paper with no recycled content, or hard paper can allow the knife to be used for as many as 5,000 cuts before it needs to be sharpened. In all cases, the operator should continually check the quality of the cut to determine when the knife blade needs to be sharpened. Some characteristics that indicate a blade needs sharpening are:

  • The knife hesitates or stalls while making a cut.
  • The sheets are not all cut to the same length (usually the top few sheets are longer than the rest of the sheets – this is sometimes called “draw”).
  • Cut marks appear on the cut face of the paper.
  • The profile of the cut (side view) is not perpendicular to the table.
  • The cut does not appear straight when viewed from the top.
  • The knife makes a “rougher” sound as it passes through paper.
  • Nicks are visible on the cutting edge of the knife.

Cutting Stick

A worn cutting stick can affect the cut quality of the bottom sheets. When this happens, the cut stick can be rotated. Usually, the stick should be rotated one or two times between knife sharpenings.

There are 8 possible cut stick positions. The stick can be rotated 4 times, and then turned end to end, and rotated 4 times again.

Bevel Angle

Challenge recommends that bevel angles for knives be in the range of 21° to 23°. In general, a 21° bevel angle will provide better cut quality when cutting soft paper (such as newsprint), recycled paper, or bound books. However, 21° angle knives can become dull sooner than 23° knives, which results in shorter knife blade life. A knife with a 23° bevel angle, on the other hand, will not dull as easily, and can provide satisfactory results when cutting most types of paper.

Helpful Suggestions

It may be beneficial to purchase more than one set of knives: one set beveled at 21° and the other at 23°. Note: A set consists of 3 knives: one in the machine, one as a back up, and one at the grinder.

If the machine seems to strain but the cut quality is still good, reduce the pile height. You may also carefully apply glycerin to the bevel when cutting hard, coated paper. Tie a cloth to the end of a stick; dip the stick in glycerin, and apply. Never apply by hand! In lieu of glycerin you may lightly rub white bar soap along the bevel. Lubrication will prolong the life of your machine and reduce maintenance.

Knife Care

  • To prevent corrosion, knives are coated with light oil. It should be REMOVED WITH CARE.
  • While removing or installing a knife, be careful not to allow the edge to bump against the machine. Nicks will result.
  • If a knife bolt is damaged, replace it. Always keep knife bolts securely tightened. Always use the heavy-duty knife bolt washers provided by Challenge. Failure to do so could result in scratching or marring of the clamp face. Store knives in a dry environment to prevent corrosion. Never attempt to service a knife in any way.

Mid-State Litho, Inc.
5459 Fenton Rd.
Flint, MI 48507
www.midstatelitho.net

Baum Static Reduction Options

We’re coming up on the dry season which means more static. Baumfolder has many weapons to use in the fight against static build up which often starts with your paper and only gets worse when put through today’s modern digital presses. Often one has to employ many lines of defense with this age old enemy. Take a look at some of the offerings we have below. And as always, please contact us if you have any questions.

Baum 714XLT Static Reducer Kit

Static String KitThe Baum 714XLT Static Reducer Kit is mounted on the exit end of the folder to reduce any static charge buildup during the folding process. The Static Reducer’s special design utilizes heavy-duty magnets with a newly developed conductive cord that draws the static charge from the paper. The kit can be added to all Baum 714 tabletop folders, both old and new, for the Baum 714XLT Air Feed, 714XE Friction Feed and Ultrafold models. The part number for the 714XLT folder kit is FK2002081.

There is no drilling needed to mount this kit to the folder. You simply place it as shown in the photos below using the magnets to hold it in place.

Static Dissipation Bars

Static BarsConsists of two static bars and a power unit (115V / 60Hz). Neutralizes the electric charges by creating an ionization field around the two bars. Part number dependent upon machine. Contact us for additional information.

Static Tinsil, an old standby that still works well as well as the Ionix Tube.

For more information on Baum tabletop folding Static Reducer Kits, contact us at 1-800-343-4231.
Mid-State Litho, Inc.
5459 Fenton Rd.
Flint, MI 48507
www.midstatelitho.net

How to Check Your Roll Condition on Your Folder

How to Check Your Roll Condition on Your Folder

The fold rolls in your Baumfolder are the heart and muscle of your folding operation. Make sure these valuable investments are still able to give you the quality work your customer demand. This simple procedure can let you verify the condition of your rolls which will give you confidence on that next job.

To Check This Operation – Lock out the power supply to the folder so it can’t be started up while you have your hand in the folder.

As you use your folder for a length of time, the ink from the printing can build up and cause the rollers to become slick and to lose their grip. If you begin to have trouble holding a fold, raise the fold plate with the folder power locked off and the fold plate secure so it does not fall on your hand. Check the urethane section of the fold rollers to determine if this has happened. Use SURE WASH and clean the fold rollers. This difficulty to clean the rollers depends on the amount of ink on the rollers.

To check for wear, with power locked out so no one can start the folder, remove the fold plates. Insert several single strips of paper rolled by hand into the roll in a forward direction about half way. Have a single strip of the same paper in the Baum sets. Now pull on each strip of paper, (don’t pull all the way out). You should have the same tension on all the strips. There may be a very slight difference and still be OK. Put the fold plates back in their proper location.

Also, check for gouges or nicks created by severe jam-ups or using screw drivers to remove jams.

Mid-State Litho, Inc.
5459 Fenton Rd.
Flint, MI 48507
www.midstatelitho.net

Challenge Machinery Paper Drilling Tips

category_header_challenge

Important! To prevent the drill from overheating, always avoid drilling too slowly. The table should be brought up as rapidly as possible allowing the drills to easily cut through the paper. Also, adjust the vertical table guide to return the table to the down position as rapidly as possible to avoid spinning the drills in the stock.

Slotted Holes – Instead of punching slotted holes for five and seven hole universal binding work, save time and cost by drilling a 1/2 inch diameter hole in place of the slot. The slot is only intended to allow the post or ring to be used in either location, and the large hole permits this.

Plastic Bindings – Drilling holes for plastic bindings, instead of punching them, is practical and saves a great deal of time, particularly on long run jobs.

Keep Drills Sharp – A dull drill is the major cause of drill breakage and production tie-ups. Usually after three hours of drilling, depending on the type of paper being processed, the drill should be sharpened. A dull drill results in poor quality work.

Keep Drills Clean – A dirty and rusty drill will not permit the free upward passage of the drill chips. Pressure built up by a clogged drill will split or break the drill. To keep it free from dirt or rust, clean the drill of all chips after each use and apply a light oil to the inside and outside. Drills should be cleaned out immediately after each use. This is particularly true if a coated or varnished stock has been drilled. On these jobs the coating on the chips frequently fuse the chips into one solid mass when the drill cools, causing breakage the next time the drill is used.

Lubricate Drills – Lubrication assists in the passage of the chips and helps avoid overheating of the drills. Use readily available stick lubricants for this purpose. Hold the end of the stick against the side of the rotating drill. Be sure to touch the cutting edge with the lubricant also. Wipe off excess oil before drilling. CARE MUST ALWAYS BE TAKEN WHEN HANDLING DRILLS.

Keep Spindle Clean – Clean out the drill spindle frequently. This will prevent any buildup in the spindle of the drill.

Set the Drills Correctly – Do not cut too deeply into the cutting block. The drill should just touch the block and cleanly cut through the bottom sheet. During drilling, do not set the drill deeper into the block but change the position of the block frequently. Drilling deeper into the block dulls the drills quickly. Use a piece of chipboard underneath your stock. This will make handling the stock easier and will ensure that the last sheet is cut cleanly through.

Check for Drill Wobble – If spindles are badly worn or bent through misadjustment, have them replaced immediately. A wobbly or loosely held drill will break.

Check Your Drill Sharpener – The cutting edge of the sharpening bit should be inspected frequently to make certain that it is sharp and free of nicks. Never let a drill drop onto the sharpening bit. It will chip the sharpening edge. Use gentle pressure when sharpening – let the sharpening bit do the work. Check the sharpness of the drill after sharpening. The cutting edge should be razor sharp.

Just a little time and effort taken with each use of your paper drilling machine should result in trouble free operation over many years.

Mid-State Litho, Inc.
5459 Fenton Rd.
Flint, MI 48507
www.midstatelitho.net

Challenge Machinery Paper Drilling Tips

category_header_challenge

Important! To prevent the drill from overheating, always avoid drilling too slowly. The table should be brought up as rapidly as possible allowing the drills to easily cut through the paper. Also, adjust the vertical table guide to return the table to the down position as rapidly as possible to avoid spinning the drills in the stock.

Slotted Holes – Instead of punching slotted holes for five and seven hole universal binding work, save time and cost by drilling a 1/2 inch diameter hole in place of the slot. The slot is only intended to allow the post or ring to be used in either location, and the large hole permits this.

Plastic Bindings – Drilling holes for plastic bindings, instead of punching them, is practical and saves a great deal of time, particularly on long run jobs.

Keep Drills Sharp – A dull drill is the major cause of drill breakage and production tie-ups. Usually after three hours of drilling, depending on the type of paper being processed, the drill should be sharpened. A dull drill results in poor quality work.

Keep Drills Clean – A dirty and rusty drill will not permit the free upward passage of the drill chips. Pressure built up by a clogged drill will split or break the drill. To keep it free from dirt or rust, clean the drill of all chips after each use and apply a light oil to the inside and outside. Drills should be cleaned out immediately after each use. This is particularly true if a coated or varnished stock has been drilled. On these jobs the coating on the chips frequently fuse the chips into one solid mass when the drill cools, causing breakage the next time the drill is used.

Lubricate Drills – Lubrication assists in the passage of the chips and helps avoid overheating of the drills. Use readily available stick lubricants for this purpose. Hold the end of the stick against the side of the rotating drill. Be sure to touch the cutting edge with the lubricant also. Wipe off excess oil before drilling. CARE MUST ALWAYS BE TAKEN WHEN HANDLING DRILLS.

Keep Spindle Clean – Clean out the drill spindle frequently. This will prevent any buildup in the spindle of the drill.

Set the Drills Correctly – Do not cut too deeply into the cutting block. The drill should just touch the block and cleanly cut through the bottom sheet. During drilling, do not set the drill deeper into the block but change the position of the block frequently. Drilling deeper into the block dulls the drills quickly. Use a piece of chipboard underneath your stock. This will make handling the stock easier and will ensure that the last sheet is cut cleanly through.

Check for Drill Wobble – If spindles are badly worn or bent through misadjustment, have them replaced immediately. A wobbly or loosely held drill will break.

Check Your Drill Sharpener – The cutting edge of the sharpening bit should be inspected frequently to make certain that it is sharp and free of nicks. Never let a drill drop onto the sharpening bit. It will chip the sharpening edge. Use gentle pressure when sharpening – let the sharpening bit do the work. Check the sharpness of the drill after sharpening. The cutting edge should be razor sharp.

Just a little time and effort taken with each use of your paper drilling machine should result in trouble free operation over many years.

Mid-State Litho, Inc.
5459 Fenton Rd.
Flint, MI 48507
www.midstatelitho.net

Soft Paper Cutting Demonstration Video by Challenge

Soft Paper Cutting Demonstration Video by Challenge

Soft Paper Cutting Demonstration Video by Challenge

Watch the material ‘lift’ when under clamping force and you can see the same thing happening to the material in front of the knife. There are several things that you can do to help minimize the lifting.

First, you reduce the pile size. In this video example, they are using a 3″ pile of very thin, flimsy paper (phone book-like). They recommend under 2″ (as a starting point).

Secondly, set the backgauge to fixed dimension in this case, it is set to 1-1/2″.

Reduce the clamping pressure to the minimum setting and cut your strips one at a time  and set them aside. Doing this maintains a solid surface that is completely holding flat virtually all of the material while cutting.

Now you can reposition the backgauge (if necessary) to the next dimension. In this case, they left it at 1-1/2″. If you watch closely you can see that the paper is not firmly held flat.

Following these suggestions should help increase your final product quality.

Mid-State Litho, Inc.
5459 Fenton Rd.
Flint, MI 48507
www.midstatelitho.net

Micro-Perf Finishing for Table Top & Folder Models

Micro-perf is special, very fine perforation that tears clean when pulled apart. This perforation is used for stocks that need perforations and must be fed again through copiers and printers.

There are kits available for both 7/8” and 1-1/8” shaft sizes. The key to whether your machine can utilize a micro-perf is dependent upon if your machine has adjustable slitter shafts. The adjustment occurs in the center to center distance between the shafts. Because the micro-perf crushes the paper between a blade and a hardened metal ring, a fine adjustment is necessary to prevent tearing the paper or damaging the blade.

There is now an adjustable slitter shaft assembly available for 714 folders which can allow your table top machine to run a micro-perf assembly. This will work on certain 714 parallel machines starting with the “XE” in 1991. You can contact us to find out if your particular machine is capable of this upgrade.

Our friendly Parts Analysts can provide more information about these and other accessories. Contact us today!

Mid-State Litho, Inc.
5459 Fenton Rd.
Flint, MI 48507
www.midstatelitho.net