Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to output complex images direct to plate or direct to press.
It requires the individual to set up and calibrate the output device, align, adjust and manipulate files, and output error-free data to plate or press according to the press and job requirements.
It applies to individuals who produce complex images for both plate and digital printing press and who work in the printing or graphic arts industries. Individuals generally work within defined procedures, respond to clearly defined briefs, and work under limited supervision.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENT | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1 Set up and maintain output device | 1.1 Output 1.2 Output device is calibrated for profiles, stock and ink types through use of calibration pages and densitometry 1.3 Calibration is evaluated regularly and necessary adjustments are made to output device |
2 Adjust and manipulate images/files | 2.1 Files on electronic media are evaluated as to suitability for output 2.2 Appropriate output resolution and data are set 2.3 Appropriate screen angle and dot type are set according to job specifications 2.4 Colour profiles appropriate to the job specifications are applied as required 2.5 Availability of high resolution images for Open Prepress Interface (OPI) process is assessed 2.6 Appropriate fonts are made available 2.7 All support files are included with the job |
3 Output image | 3.1 File is prepared for output to plate setter or digital printing press using industry designated software 3.2 If outputting to plate, plate material is selected according to press requirements and job specifications 3.3 If outputting to plate, plate size is selected according to press requirements 3.4 Image is positioned on plate/press with correct orientation for grip 3.5 Job queuing is managed to ensure efficient production 3.6 Images are outputted to appropriate medium 3.7 Output is processed according to job specifications |
4 Evaluate result | 4.1 Output is checked for correct dot size and screen angles 4.2 Image elements are checked according to original job specifications 4.3 Technical problems are solved and appropriate corrections are made 4.4 Job is prepared for next stage of production (eg. plates are processed) |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
output TWO complex images direct to plate or press, and proof and check to ensure press requirements and job specifications are met
find and use information relevant to the task from a variety of information sources.
Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.
Evidence of Knowledge
To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:
describe how printing process selection impacts output settings
outline methods/procedures available for calibrating an output device
list consequences of incorrect calibration
explain how differences in stock affect calibration
state how often calibration should be checked
explain how to rectify files that do not transfer correctly
list main points to be checked before sending a job to the Raster Image Processor (RIP)
explain the relationship between screen ruling and selection of image resolution
identify conditions that cause a variation from conventional screen angles
outline checks needed while preparing a job for Open Prepress Interface (OPI)
outline consequences for image quality if OPI files are not placed in their correct folders
explain what the low resolution file does in the OPI process
list main factors influencing processing speed of a job when being RIPped
explain how RIPping speed of a job can be increased
name setting changes required to the output device/software when outputting a Frequency Modulation (FM) screen
outline factors that influence selection of the screen micron rating
list main file formats and effects selection of a format has on processing of a job
identify manuals, safety and other documentation relevant to this task, where they are kept, and information included in them.
Assessment Conditions
Gather evidence to demonstrate consistent performance in conditions that are safe and replicate the workplace. Noise levels, production flow, interruptions and time variances must be typical of those experienced in the Pre-Press field of work and include access to special purpose tools, equipment and industry software packages.
Assessors must satisfy NVR/AQTF assessor requirements.
Foundation Skills
This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.
Skill | Performance Criteria | Description |
Reading | 1.1, 2.3, 2.4, 3.2, 3.7, 4.2 | Recognises and interprets text to establish job requirements from information contained within relevant procedures and specifications |
Numeracy | 1.2, 2.4, 3.3 | Uses mathematical processes to calibrate equipment for file formats and outputs |
Navigate the world of work | 1.1 | Understands and follows policies and procedures associated with own role |
Get the work done | 1.1-1.3, 2.1-2.7, 3.1-3.7, 4.1-4.4 | Takes responsibility for planning and organising own workload and assembles required resources Recognises and takes responsibility for addressing predictable, and some less predictable, problems in familiar work contexts Utilises a broad range of features within applications, optimising software functions for specific purposes |
Sectors
Pre-Press