This is Part 2 of 2 in our series on how to use a cutter with a proprietary RIP. See Part 1 of Using a Cutter with a Proprietary RIP for previous instructions.
One of our Senior Technicians, Leif, continues educating us in this series by explaining how to set the blade depth to avoid tearing print media.
You need:
- Pre-printed media
- Blade (in a holder)
- Weeding tool
Take Time to Properly Set the Blade Depth
It is important to properly set the blade depth, especially when dealing with thicker print media. Holding the printer blade you will use in the blade holder, advance the blade until it is barely outside the holder. At a 90 degree angle, draw a small circle on the media, away from your graphic. (Figure 1)
With your weeding tool, gently lift the circle, noting if your blade cut too deep into the media. If it has, lower the blade a slight bit. Think microscopic increments. This will take some finessing, so take your time and continue these steps until you get a clean cut without going through the backing. (Figure 2)
Load the Cutter
After you have found the proper blade depth, load your cutter. Keep the media straight as you load it into the cutter, again making sure your blade is in the right position.
Set up the cut by finding the registration mark. (Figure 3) I prefer to put my blade in the middle of the mark. You also may need to set the origin.
Select production manager for contour cut and hit "send". (Figure 5)
After the cutter makes the contour cut, use your weeding tool to gently lift the graphic. (Figure 6)
This method works with Vertelith and raster link and should work with any software that accepts a PDF.
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
Figure 4
Thanks, Leif, for all your insights and for providing these helpful steps. Check out our tips from techs and other advice in our library of support articles.
