Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to confirm that digital files required for the printing process are all present, valid, correctly formatted and of the desired format to be imported into a digital device. It includes the application of preflight procedures and importation of files into raster image processors (RIPs).
It applies to individuals who use specialised knowledge and follow organisational processes to ensure product quality meets requirements.
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. Access and preflight electronic files | 1.1 Electronic data files are located and retrieved using a workstation computer and industry software according to job specifications 1.2 Preflight check of electronic data files is performed to verify correct job set-up according to job specifications, and problems associated with files are identified 1.3 Troubleshooting methods are applied to identify file errors and job requirement inconsistencies 1.4 Solutions are implemented to rectify errors according to job specifications 1.5 Preflight presets are configured for various job specifications |
2. Import file to RIP or job queue | 2.1 Correct output profile is selected according to job specifications 2.2 Most productive submission workflow is selected and documented based on data file format, quantity and file size, and document finishing 2.3 Job priority is determined according to job specifications and production schedules 2.4 Print driver and/or job download software is correctly installed and set up on workstation computer and/or digital front-end processor 2.5 Manufacturer's installation instructions are located and/or software installation is coordinated according to enterprise procedures 2.6 Data file is submitted to output device, image quality and machine productivity checks are performed, and adjustments made to correct any problems |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
import electronic files that are error-free and meet job specifications into rips or output queues
find and use information relevant to the task from a variety of information sources
preflight and import TWO complex jobs according to manufacturer's specifications and enterprise procedures.
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:
identify and describe key digital printing processes
outline required resolution for various output conditions
describe different colour modes and how they affect output
explain trapping and overprint requirements
identify and describe different screen types and angles
outline bleed amounts required for various jobs
explain the impact font types and licensing can have on output
describe preflighting tools available in various applications
compare different file types and how they can affect output
outline factors that influence processing speed of a job during ripping
explain how the ripping speed of a job can be increased.
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 printing field of work and include access to:
special purpose tools, equipment and materials
high-end computers
raster image processors (RIPs)
output devices
layout software.
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, 1.2, 1.4, 1.5, 2.1, 2.3, 2.5 | Recognises and interprets text to establish job requirements from information contained within relevant procedures and specifications |
Writing | 2.2 | Enters routine data associated with production processes and enterprise procedures |
Oral Communication | 1.1, 1.2, 1.4, 1.5, 2.1, 2.3, 2.5 | Speaks clearly using appropriate vocabulary, tone and pace to report faults and discrepancies |
Navigate the world of work | 1.1-1.5, 2.1-2.6 | Recognises and follows explicit and implicit protocols and meets expectations associated with own role |
Interact with others | 1.1, 1.2, 1.4, 1.5, 2.1, 2.3, 2.5 | Cooperates with others as part of familiar routine activities, and contributes to specific activities requiring joint responsibility and accountability Understands what to communicate, with whom and how, in routine work situations |
Get the work done | 1.1-1.5, 2.1-2.6 | 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 to improve personal productivity, optimising software functions for specific purposes |
Sectors
Printing