I am looking to purchase a used 618 but the buyer has zero knowledge about the install/setup. I currently have a PC with fiery impose and that's where I prepress everything. My question is.. Am I able to use the same PC to control the 618 and manipulate/create templates? Most of the videos I've seen it has a laptop sitting on top the 618, but the one I'm purchasing does not come with any laptop. It does come with a PC Controller CD? I can't remember the last time I even saw a CD drive, not sure how this setup works. Ideally would like to do everything from my current PC with Fiery Impose.
Duplo DC-618
- Thread starter D0N0TR0N
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ReproElectroProspero
Well-known member
You theoretically can use the RIP pc to run other software like the Duplo PC Controller...but I've been told this is bad practice and you shouldn't do this. But, the reason I believe it is possible is because when you are in your Fiery RIP setting up the Fiery Impose / Duplo integration - it wants you to point it to the folder where the Duplo PC Controller software is installed. All the guides I've read tell you to use network sharing to point it to that folder, but it should work exactly the same if the software is installed locally.
Thanks for the reply. I'm ok purchasing a basic laptop to sit on top of the 618 and connect to it via USB, just wasn't sure how this is typically set up. The PC Controller software is on a CD which I think I will have to buy an external CD Drive to USB.. I cannot understand how Duplo is still using CDs, this machine was made in 2020. Anyway, it's version 1.0 and current firmware is in the 11.0 range. The research I have done sounds like I would have to reach out to Duplo to get the latest firmware? Not sure why it wouldn't ask to update after I install version 1.0 but I can ask Duplo. Current thinking is to keep my desktop PC that has fiery impose and where I configure templates and layout, then have an inexpensive laptop connected to the 618 and as PC Controller. The desktop PC should connect to the PC Controller laptop through IP/network, load the template/file and I use the laptop to see the layout and hit go to start cutting on the 618? Apologies in advance, while not new to printing and cutting, very new to Duplo.
SoggyWinter
Well-known member
I have a 646 with older controller software, but the templates Fiery Impose loads are xml files and we just keep them on a file share.
Once all your templates are loaded on the Duplo you don’t always need to be running the Duplo software. You can select your template from the screen on the Duplo, and I believe you can make adjustments to existing files from the screen too, but I have never done that. Then just use the test button on the Duplo for your first sheet and if all is good hit the big green button to let it fly. I use the Duplo software to make adjustments like shrinkage and shifting cutting because it really is easier than trying to figure how to do it on the little screen on the Duplo.
I can’t help with the Fiery Impose question, because I use Quite Imposing to create all my impositions. I have the Duplo template creation software on 2 network pc’s but only connect to the Duplo on 1 of them via the usb. Be careful with the usb cable that you chose because it’s a bit picky about the length and quality of the connection. The DC-618 is the most reliable piece of equipment I have ever had, you will not regret getting one.
I guess they could have put the software on a usb thumb drive instead of a cd, but honestly I think the cd travels and stores well in the door of the Duplo along with the manuals. I’m still a bit old school on some things and the cd is no issue for me.
I can’t help with the Fiery Impose question, because I use Quite Imposing to create all my impositions. I have the Duplo template creation software on 2 network pc’s but only connect to the Duplo on 1 of them via the usb. Be careful with the usb cable that you chose because it’s a bit picky about the length and quality of the connection. The DC-618 is the most reliable piece of equipment I have ever had, you will not regret getting one.
I guess they could have put the software on a usb thumb drive instead of a cd, but honestly I think the cd travels and stores well in the door of the Duplo along with the manuals. I’m still a bit old school on some things and the cd is no issue for me.
FYI We have a Duplo DC-618 for sale if the buyer falls through.
Pennypicher
Well-known member
download the cd onto a thumb drive and then onto the laptop. Dont go too far in versions as you will then need to upgrade the software in the machine. Stick to the basics. Most times the update changes little things you'd never have a issue with.
ReproElectroProspero
Well-known member
That seems like very bad nickel and dime-ing - disappointed in Duplo for this. Their machines cost $20k plus and they're gonna charge me $200 for the privelege of downloading the software to run it? I would be looking at competitors tbqh. I went and checked my laptop I run my Duplo software off of - it looks like I have 1.04. DM me and I'll see if I can't export it somehow.
Yeah I wasn't thrilled that was their answer. You're selling a premium machine ($35k) and it doesn't come with free firmware updates? Yikes Duplo. I already purchased it, solved my CD problem as it was a digital download. Figured I was $20k into this, might as well have the most up to date software to help sync up with my current fiery software but wasn't happy about it. Appreciate the offer though. Have the file if anyone cares.
OriginalScuddy
Well-known member
I have the software version 1.15 for the 646 if you need it.
Thanks sir Scuddy - should be good with the 1.04 I purchased. Not sure if I could install software from the 646 onto my 618 anyway? At any rate, appreciate the offer.
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