Printing 16-bit files from Epson 7800

[tgphoto]

Hi Gang,

Is it possible to print in 16-bit mode to an Epson 7800?  If so, does it require a RIP to do it, or can this be done from the standard Epson drivers?

Thanks!

Tim

[Paul Sumi]

Not quite what you're asking, but I print 16 bit TIFFs to my 2400 using QImage (which uses Epson's print driver).

Paul

[tgphoto]

Well, I read that 16-bit files are essentially converted to 8-bit before they are sent to the printer, something having to do with printers being 8-bit output devices.

Since the new Canon iPF5000 features a 16-bit plugin capable of handling 16-bit files, it got me thinking if this is a feature available in the current Epson lineup, specifically, the 7800, which I own.

If the Epson doesn't handle 16-bit printing, then I should be converting to 8-bit before I print so I don't send such a huge file to the printer (or should I?).

One forum discussion suggested this was also an OS issue, with users claiming Windows can only handle 8-bit files whereas MacOSX can handle 16-bit files.

Guess I'm just looking for a bit of guidance, since the only place I can think of to get these questions answered is the Epson Print Academy, which is sold out unless I want to travel to NYC for a day.

Tim

[digitaldog]

The Epson driver only handles 8-bit data. You don't have to convert (Photoshop will do this for you on the fly through Print with Preview). An Epson driven by ImagePrint can and does use 16-bit data path.