Q: How does Chromira SE Lab handle color matching between multiple size prints?
A: Since all prints come from the same roll and are processed at the same time they are automatically color matched.
FAQs for Chromira SE Lab Product Page
Q: How do prints come out of the machine?
A: Prints are deposited on the “print deck”.
Q: Does Chromira SE Lab require a darkroom?
A: No, there is absolutely no darkroom required. Other “daylight” operation machines require a darkroom in order to load “daylight” paper cassettes. Mini-lab type machines can use a changing bag on a separate table instead of a darkroom, but large-format machines all need a darkroom. Not only is this inconvenient, but it doubles the amount of space needed for the machine. In order to avoid the use of a darkroom, the Chromira SE Lab omits the use of a cassette. Chromira SE Lab uses the original paper box as its cassette. The whole box goes into the machine and the operator loads the machine by reaching through a light-tight panel. This takes about 30 seconds. No darkroom. No cassette. No cassette to drop and break. The Chromira SE Lab is a true daylight operating printer.
Q: How big is the Chromira SE Lab?
A: The footprint of the Chromira SE Lab is 5’ x 5.5′ (1.5m x 1.7m), which is smaller than many mini-labs.
Q: Does the Chromira SE Lab include or require a “Front End”?
A: The usual “Front End” bottleneck is eliminated with Chromira SE Lab. Each PC networked in the Lab has full access to the “front end” functions. This completely eliminates the need for a dedicated “front end” computer, and removes the bottleneck, which results from having to pass each print job through the “front end” workstation. There is no such thing as “pre-processing time” with the Chromira SE Lab.
Q: Does the Chromira SE Lab require a dedicated operator?
A: Yes, the Chromira SE Lab is a working machine that is constantly outputting prints. An operator will be required to empty the collating trays and print catcher (for large prints).
Q: What about a RIP?
A: Most digital imaging departments have one or more RIP packages they use to drive other printers. Since Chromira SE Lab is an “open system”, it works with any RIP that can generate an RGB TIFF file (including most popular RIPs). The Chromira SE Lab should integrate easily into any system.
Q: How does the Chromira SE Lab connect to our computer(s) or workstation(s)?
A: Chromira SE Lab does not plug in like a desktop printer. It has a built-in Windows XP computer and connects to the other computer(s) over the network much like any other PC. Files can travel over the network to the Chromira SE Lab as it is printing. Everything necessary to the interface to the network is included with the Chromira SE Lab. The user need only supply the network connection to plug into it.
Q: Since the Chromira SE Lab is PC-based, how can I print images from my MAC?
A: The Chromira SE Lab can print RGB TIFF files in both MAC and PC formats. MAC images can be brought to the Chromira SE Lab via 1) Network, 2) Disk, or 3) CD.
Q: How fast does Chromira SE Lab print?
A: Chromira SE Lab prints at 24 (61 cm) inches per minute. That equals:
- 1650 – 4×6” prints per hour
- 540 – 8×10″ prints per hour
- 390 – 11×14″ prints per hour
- 69 – 20 x 30″ prints per hour
- 35 – 30×40″ prints per hour