CA 142 - Page Composition II

Course Description

  • Prerequisite: CA 131 and CA 132
  • CA majors only

An advanced paste up course for preparing digital mechanicals for offset print production using appropriate layout software in combination with applicable hardware. Emphasis on preparing complex mechanicals which includes assessing available page layout software; output devices; proofing; networking; storage and transfer; files and formats; and maintenance and management.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of CA 142, the student will be able to:

Production

  • Produce a mechanical using electronic imposition.
  • Produce a multicolor job that includes
    • scans
    • text
    • spot color artwork

Output Devices

  • Explain the differences in quality of photo-processed and laser printer output.
  • Demonstrate postscript software capabilities.
  • List the capabilities of image setters.
  • Describe the current systems and techniques for outputting files directly to plate material.
  • Recognize postscript page description language.
  • Describe the impact of film processor variations on final output.

Proofing

  • Explain the use of quality control data.
  • Compare digital proofs.

Networking

  • Compare networking systems.
  • Prepare page layout files containing graphic images for remote output.

Storage and Transfer

  • Compare the leading operating systems in terms of
    • performance
    • use
    • capabilities.
  • Explain storage guidelines and limitations.
  • Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different storage media.
  • List the capabilities of storage devices for
    • electronic imaging work
    • transport
    • storage.
  • Use the backup utility to create
    • backup tapes
    • cartridges
    • diskettes
  • Use the back up utility to restore files to the hard drive or diskette.

Files and Formats

  • Describe the strengths and weaknesses of the following in a postscript environment:
    • TIFF
    • EPS
    • PICT
    • DCS
  • Use a file compression utility for file transfer or storage.

Maintenance and Management

  • Perform font management activities.
  • Perform system-troubleshooting procedures.
  • Demonstrate troubleshooting procedures for postscript errors.
  • Calibrate a color monitor.
  • Produce a multicolor job that includes
    • scans
    • text
    • spot color artwork
  • Follow customer specified criteria to
    • produce files
    • modify files
    • output files

Color and Color Theory

  • Identify basic color theory.
  • Demonstrate electronic color proofing techniques.

Advanced Desktop Publishing

  • Organize a basic file management system for desktop publishing operations.
  • Select appropriate page layout software for a given job.
  • Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of available page layout programs.
  • Compare capabilities of high and low end systems.
  • Discuss the current developments in direct imaging technologies.