Commonly known as a RIP, this device prepares a document for printing and is available either built-in as hardware or separate as software. Software RIPs make up the bulk of the current market. A workstation is a computer that handles the RIP and other functions. The best workstation for you will vary depending on your clientele. Your best printer choice also varies, depending mainly upon the volume of your work.
Electrostatic printers can handle high volumes but require a carefully controlled environment.
Inkjet printers create near photo-realistic prints, but operate more slowly. The output of electrostatic printers is less likely to fade than that of inkjets, but electrostatic output must often be transferred to vinyl or mounted and laminated for stability. Another good potential printer type is the large-format digital photo printer, which outputs genuine photographs from digital files. The final component, the finishing system, protects output, creating more durable products. The most common finish is mounting and laminating.