PrintED/SkillsUSA Competencies

Digital File Output

  1. Read and interpret production information on job docket/ticket.
  2. Identify safety considerations in computer-to-plate and direct-to-digital press.
  3. Read and interpret material safety datasheets Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).
  4. Define preflighting and file repair.
  5. List common digital file problems in a native file and a Portable Document Format (PDF).
  6. Repair a native file and PDF that exhibits basic file problems.
  7. Define trapping as it relates to prepress.
  8. Describe the various software options for creating digital traps.
  9. Demonstrate the proper trap to apply to a digitally created page using page layout, illustration, and/or trapping software.
  10. Define various imposition styles such as work and turn, work and tumble, sheetwise, multiple up, and perfecting.
  11. Demonstrate how to send, manage and impose an electronic file using digital imposition software.
  12. Create a folding dummy for a 16-page job with proper pagination, folds, and guides.
  13. Explain why calibration is important for digital output devices.
  14. Output a multicolor digital file to direct-to-plate system, digital inkjet printer, laser printer or digital press.
  15. Identify digital direct-to-plate system materials and plate types.
  16. List the considerations in selecting the correct plate making procedures and materials (paper, polyester, metal) for a given job.
  17. Identify basic digital proofing systems and materials.
  18. Output a file to a digital color proofing device.
  19. Discuss and demonstrate soft proofing software.
  20. Define computer-to-plate technology.
  21. Describe the technology used in laser-generated output devices.
  22. List the considerations in imaging related to the characteristics of paper and other printing substrates (e.g., foil, plastic).
  23. Describe the effect of dot gain or loss on the reproduction system.
  24. Describe the difference between undercolor removal (UCR) and gray component replacement (GCR).
  25. Explain the differences between a densitometer, plate reader, and spectrophotometer, and when you use each.
  26. Describe process control procedures necessary for successful digital file output.
  27. Identify and describe direct imaging technologies on press.
  28. Describe the use of plate scanning and ink key presetting technologies.
  29. Explain International Cooperation for Integration of Processes in Prepress, Press, and Postpress (CIP4) and Job Definition Format (JDF) and how it is used in the production of a job.
  30. Observe computer-to-plate operations at a commercial printing plant (live or virtual).