The Paint module, conceived as both a powerful 4c retouching tool and a new creative tool, offers for the first time the possibility to merge into a DTP system the functions of layout elements and image processing. With the consequent employment of the Softripping technology it is possible to retouch and alter pictures directly in the graphics context of the complete page.
In the Paint module greyscale images can be worked on in exactly the same way as RGB and CMYK colour pictures. If you select a frame which doesn't already have a bit image in one of these formats, then the Paint module offers the possibility to convert it into such a format.
Thus you can for example select a text frame and Paint in it after a successful conversion, smear letters and so on...
During the transformation into a bit image any previously existing vector information in a frame is lost. For a clean reproduction of sloping or curved edges a high resolution is needed, which in turn can require a lot of memory.
The Paint module can work on pictures of any arbitrary size at any magnification or reduction. The picture frame may be turned, reflected or distorted. Display options - such as the grid - remain effective as usual. Thus for example you can retouch a greyscale picture in the "typesetters 1:1" magnification with the grid visible!
Operation of the module should pose no problems for the experienced Calamus user. It integrates seamlessly into the total concept and greatly extends the capabilities of the system.
Hardware demands for image processing are very high, and not only for computing performance. Main memory can never be large enough - for example, an A4 colour image at 300 dpi needs over 32 Mb of RAM. Then comes temporary storage space for the calculation of processing effects and possibly for an activated UNDO buffer. By using virtual memory, either in Calamus itself or with external programs such as VRAM or OUTSIDE ,though you can extend the available storage space, this is at the expense of a noticeable slowing down or operations.
The remainder of this manual details first the basic settings for the module itself, then the tools and their features, and finally some tips and tricks for the use of the module.