Navigator Workflow
Harlequin RIP-Based Prepress Software
The path to Prepress Independence®
One of the printing industry's most widely trusted workflows — built on the Harlequin RIP for maximum Speed, Accuracy, and Productivity.
Navigator is a Harlequin RIP-based workflow for commercial, packaging, and specialty print production. Built on Hybrid Software Helix technology, Navigator provides accurate interpretation of PDF, PostScript, and EPS files while allowing print shops to modernize workflow software without replacing existing CtP hardware.
Navigator is widely deployed across the print industry, with the underlying Harlequin RIP used in nearly 50,000 installations worldwide.
Xitron is currently shipping Navigator RIP v14 and Workflow v9. Click here for upgrade information.
Why Navigator Is Used Across the Industry
Proven Harlequin RIP Technology
Navigator uses the same Harlequin RIP core found in offset, flexo, digital, and packaging environments worldwide. The RIP technology is mature, well-supported, and continuously developed.
Hardware Independence
Navigator supports hundreds of output devices and allows shops to change workflow software without replacing platesetters or proofing devices.
Modular, Predictable Costs
Navigator is licensed by function. Shops pay only for the RIP, workflow, and options they actually use.
Operator-Controlled Workflows
Job naming, routing, automation, and review steps are configurable to match existing shop practices instead of forcing fixed workflows.
Core Features and Practical Benefits
Low Cost of Ownership
One-time perpetual license means no subscriptions. Only pay for the functionality you need. Extending the life of existing CtP systems with a new RIP and workflow.
Intelligent Job Tracking and Search
Search active or archived jobs using shop-defined identifiers such as ticket number, customer name, or date.
PDF 2.0 Support
Navigator supports the PDF 2.0 specification, including page-level output intents, Black Point Compensation, and spectrally defined spot colors.
Scalable Architecture
Add RIPs, workflow options, or clients as production needs change without redesigning the workflow.
Seamless Previews
View RIP separations from any workstation without interrupting production. Inspect line screens, spot colors, and traps at the pixel level before plate output.
Network-Wide Access
Access and control jobs from any Mac or PC. Client/server design separates job management from the output device and supports secure administrative control.
Broad Device Support
Output to hundreds of platesetters, proofers, and digital devices. Navigator is frequently used as a replacement for proprietary RIP systems.
Accurate PDF Interpretation
Native PDF processing ensures correct handling of transparency and modern PDF constructs – reducing errors and saving time and money.
Standard Features
Navigator Harlequin® RIP v14 = version 14 of Xitron’s Harlequin RIP.
Navigator GPS Workflow & RIP = a bundled RIP + workflow/job manager using the Navigator Harlequin® RIP.
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GPS adds job tracking, client/server control, previews, and workflow automation on top of the RIP core.
Windows 11 Pro is Required for the RIP and Server
Harlequin RIP Features | Navigator Harlequin® RIP v14 | Navigator GPS Workflow & RIP |
|---|---|---|
Core RIP Technology | Harlequin® | Harlequin® |
Color management supports ICC profiles | Yes | Yes |
Native PDF Processing | Yes | Yes |
Preview does not stop output production | n/a | Yes |
Load balancing between multiple RIPs – requires 2 or more RIPs | n/a | Option |
Workflow Client Interface from Any Desktop | Navigator v14 Harlequin®RIP | Navigator GPS Workflow & RIP |
|---|---|---|
Navigator GPS allows access to two concurrent “clients” at any time. Up to eight more clients can be added. | n/a | Includes 2 clients w/Max of 10* |
Manage multiple RIPs with single interface from operator workstation | n/a | Up to 4 |
Job tracking throughout the workflow | n/a | Yes |
Preview RIPed files before release to output device: zoom to 16,000%, measure screen angles, dot percentages, turn separations on and off, measure screen angles, dot percentages, turn separations on and off, check traps | Limited zoom at RIP workstation only | Yes |
Job Achiving | n/a | Yes |
Job Search | n/a | Yes |
Workflow | Navigator Harlequin® RIP v14 | Navigator GPS Workflow + RIP |
|---|---|---|
Define Workflows/Job Tickets for specific customers or job types | n/a | Yes |
Insert “pauses” into workflow and inspection check points | n/a | Yes |
Control Page Setup features at prepress workstations | n/a | Yes |
Ink Remapping | n/a | Option |
Create scriptable Hot Folders for custom file handling | n/a | Yes |
Vector-based PDF Trapping – Fast, powerful, interactive trapping module is an improvement over in-RIP trapping | n/a | Yes |
Optional Features
PDF Tools | Navigator Harlequin® RIP v14 | Navigator GPS Workflow + RIP |
|---|---|---|
PDF Creation/Stabilization | n/a | Option |
PDF Preflight | n/a | Option |
Edit PDF on client | n/a | Option |
Create Certified PDF with Enfocus Library | n/a | Option |
Integrated preflight profile creation | n/a | Option |
Imposition & Proofing | Navigator Harlequin® RIP v14 | Navigator GPS Workflow + RIP |
|---|---|---|
Integrated imposition featuring Impostrip® Pro Offset | Option | Option |
PDF Raster Plug-in delivers pre-RIPed PDF to any proofing device | Option | Option |
Ink Key Presetting | Navigator Harlequin® RIP v14 | Navigator GPS Workflow + RIP |
|---|---|---|
CIP3 Ink Key data for presses | Option | Option |
KeySetter Lite (Chart output) | n/a | Option |
KeySetter Pro (Proprietary file formats) | n/a | Option |
Plug-ins for Inkjet Proofing & Film
Navigator Proofing
Navigator vDot proofing plug-ins produce accurate results when used in conjunction with many popular Epson printers. Read more.
Inkjet Direct
Xitron’s Inkjet Direct (IJD) plug-in for the Harlequin RIP allows you to output film positives using Epson printers. Read more.