This unit applies to individuals who prepare the subject to be scanned and set up the scanner to ensure that the image output will be of a standard to meet the technical standards required for the technical specifications of the job and print media requirements.

Individuals will generally work under supervision and within defined procedures.

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Prepare line and/or tone original for scanning

1.1. The line or tone image/copy is scaled to conform to production specifications or quality standards

1.2. The quality of the line or tone image input is assessed to determine scanner settings

1.3. The line or tone image is prepared for mounting to scanner ready for scanning

2. Prepare scanner

2.1. The scanner is selected and set correctly for the mono image to be scanned

2.2. Appropriate software is selected for scanning line and/or tone images

3. Scan image

3.1. The original image is scanned for reproduction

3.2. The quality of the scanned image is checked against the job/ design specifications and the printing reproduction requirements

3.3. Appropriate software is applied to scan and process the image

3.4. Image is checked for compliance with design specifications

Required skills

occupational health and safety (OHS)skills for applying correct ergonomics when operating in a computer environment

analytical skills for interpreting the appropriate scanning parameters for the job specifications

problem-solving skills for determining scanners and specifications to meet output requirements

teamwork skills for maintaining the production process in association with others

technical skills for setting up the scanner to suit various printing processes or electronic media

Required knowledge

characteristics of a line or tone image

printing processes and the type of substrates used for printing processes

OHS issues associated with scanner/computer operations

scanner resolution

correct controls for scanner operation

hardware requirement for line and tone scanning

computer software requirement for line and tone scanning

scanners and specifications

software requirements and specifications to process and output the image

sources of information and other documentation related to safety and scanner operation

correct storing of manuals and documentation

correct use of hardware and software

reproduction matching requirements to resolution factors and job brief

The Evidence Guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Evidence of the ability to:

determine the capability of scanner hardware and software to meet reproduction requirements for print media

scan images to meet requirements and which are transferrable across design, pre-press and print sectors

use of information relevant to the task from a variety of information sources

use a flat-bed or drum scanner and reproduce three examples of line and tone reproductions with supporting comments on set-up criteria and job specifications.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment must ensure:

that conditions are typical of the ambient conditions found in the prepress workplace

access to relevant facilities, equipment and materials for the reproduction and production of images to suit the needs of the print media processes

evidence of scanner system maintenance procedures

use of culturally appropriate processes and techniques appropriate to the language and literacy capacity of learners and the work being performed.

Method of assessment

A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:

direct questioning in relation to the operating specifications of scanners suitable for print media applications

third party input and workplace reports of candidate performance

practical demonstration by the candidate when scanning and processing the image.

Guidance information for assessment

Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended.

For valid and reliable assessment of this unit, evidence should be gathered over a period of time through a range of methods for assessment to indicate consistent performance.

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Quality standards may include:

enterprise and industry standards

Image input may include:

a variety of originals or copy with high contrast line or continuous tone characteristics

Scanner may include:

flat-bed

drum scanner

Software may include:

appropriate software relative to image input and quality output device

Unit sector

Pre-press

This unit contains employability skills.