Artwork | Output Types: Raster

Artwork | Output Types: Raster

Raster

Raster is the default system Output Type and is compatible with the largest array of platform features. It produces a single layer 300ppi, *RGB, raster output file that is available in multiple formats. 
A raster image is made up of a grid of pixels, often referred to as a bitmap. For more information please see Further Reading section at the bottom of the article.
The system is capable of producing Raster files up to 1000mm x 1000mm at 300dpi. If larger files are needed for larger products, then the DPI can be reduced at product level to allow larger size prints to be generated. For example:
  1. If 300dpi, max = 1000mm x 1000mm
  2. if 150dpi, max = 2000mm x 2000mm
If you are configuring a product on CPP, you can use the Print Test facility to generate and review example Raster files in multiple formats.
The following file formats are available for Raster generated artwork:
  • PNG - PNG supports lossless data compression so output image quality is optimal. PNG is the only Raster output type to support transparency in the output file based on relevant product setup, eg including a transparent artwork file in the Print Area Artwork slot.
  • JPEG - JPEG utilises a lossy form of compression so output quality can sometimes be affected; it may not be well suited for line drawings and other textual or iconic graphics where the sharp contrasts between adjacent pixels can cause noticeable artefacts. In scenarios like this it would be best to opt for PNG to avoid the compression.
  • PDF - Standard PDF output utilises JPEG compression - essentially it is a PDF file with Raster data embedded within it. It can output multiple page/sequential PDF files for products with multiple pages, eg a Book.
  • *TIFF - The TIFF output is different to the other Raster formats in this list as it outputs the artwork as CMYK by default rather than RGB. This is done via an automatic colour mode conversion from RGB to CMYK, so in some cases there may be a slight difference between the original artwork and the subsequent output. The file is single layer, and does not contain transparency.
  • *BMP - BMP format stores the colour data for each pixel in the image without any using compression. This can result in very large files being generated. As such, the option must be enabled as a Company Setting and additional processing costs may be incurred - for more information, see this Article >>
Important Note: If required, ICC profiles can be specified to generate CMYK artwork rather than the RGB default. Due to how ICC profiles work, it is necessary to set two separate profiles. The RGB profile tells the system how to convert the standard RGB artwork into the intermediate profile connection space (PCS) and the CMYK profile tells the system how to convert from PCS to CMYK. For more information, see the following article: ICC Colour Profiles >>

Product Setup Requirements

Unless explicitly stated, all Product Creation articles under the 'Create' Menu of knowledge base are relevant to the Raster Output Type and applicable to Suppliers and Retailers. This includes the 'Create Your First' articles, and the 'Level 1/2/3 Tutorials'. For more information see the most popular articles:

Further reading

Definition: What is a Raster graphic? >>
Wikipedia: Raster Graphics >>
Comparison: Raster vs Vector >>
Digital and Direct Print >>