Launch and Load: Open the Caldera RIP software. Drag and drop your print-ready file (e.g., PDF, TIFF) into the main job window.
Select Printer and Media: In the job settings tab, choose the target printer (e.g., Latex 3600). Then, select the appropriate media configuration, which includes the ICC profile, ink limits, and resolution.
Adjust Job Parameters: Set the number of copies, check the print size, and apply any necessary transformations like rotation or scaling. For banners or decals, you can add grommet marks or cut contours from this menu.
Nesting (Optional): If you have multiple small jobs, use the 'Compose' or 'Nest' feature to arrange them efficiently on a single sheet or roll to minimize media waste.
Color Management
Profile Management: Use EasyMedia to calibrate new media. This involves printing and measuring color charts with a spectrophotometer to build an accurate ICC profile.
Spot Color Matching: For brand colors, use the Spot Color tool. You can input Pantone values, and Caldera will use the printer's profile to calculate the best possible match. You can print swatch charts to fine-tune these values.
Proofing: Before a large print run, print a small, cropped section of a critical area (like a face or a logo) to verify color accuracy and quality.
Submit to Print: Once all settings are confirmed, click the 'Print' button to send the processed job to the printer's queue.