I am having trouble understanding the logic behind Media Models and why more are not provided by Postershop. Within the "Profiling a New Media" document, Onyx suggests that "(i)n most cases you can simply select one of the pre-existing models from the list." I only have two on my list; GS SWOP and swap low yellow. I can build a media model to the specifications in Appendix C but it still raises questions like can I try to pump different colors in the model when they appear flat in the linearization swatch? etc. I am using a HP3000CP and trying to profile a UV backlit material, any suggestions?

We are running PosterShop 4.2 on an NT platform.

-- Anonymous, November 12, 1998

Answers

We've had similar issues with a client - as far as the backlit media with an HP Designjet 2500CP is concerned. In order to get the backlit dense enough to show through the media, we made a copy of one of the media models and increased the value of each field for CMY&K up 40% of the original value. This seemed to work and the ink showed through the media better. Another way is to create a filter for that media and increase the amount of ink to it through the filter. (I added another 60% in the filter and that also worked when applying it to a backlit job) I hope this works for you.

-- Anonymous, July 27, 1999

I have a 3000cp and when I make the ink dense enough, the pinwheels screw it up. How do you guys get around that?

-- Anonymous, October 10, 1999

Two comments: First: Hany media that doesn't dry fast needs the pinwheels up. HP now supplies a free hardware/firmware update that lets you run with the pinwheels not touching the media. Call their Customers Service and they will send it out.

Second: Don't forget that although the dye inks on the HP make great looking backlits, they are not fade resistant and should really only be used for short term, indoor backlits. You can get lightfastness with the HP-UV inks, but to get the colo, you need lots of ink. The only media I have found so far that will hold all the ink you need for backlit and not crack, is Mitsubishi Digital Imaging Translucent Film for pigmented inks. I haven't made backlits with Postershop but with the HP Adobe PS RIP I print my standard file and just tell the RIP to put down 25% darker ink. I'm sure you can do the same with Posershop. The image will leave the printer still wet. Care in handling is needed, but you can great a great backlit that will even last outdoors when laminated. Don't forget to get the pinwheel upgrade to let you run with the pinwheels out of the way.

Dave

-- Anonymous, October 11, 1999