What is the Stabilizer?

The Stabilizer action is used to convert incoming PostScript files into PDF format. It provides a reliable and consistent way to prepare PostScript files for further processing within the workflow.

The Stabilizer only acts on PostScript files — existing PDF files are passed through unchanged. This action ensures that PostScript files are converted into a format that the workflow can easily handle.

Purpose and Functionality

The Stabilizer action is designed to:

  • Convert incoming PostScript files to PDF format.
  • Ensure that files are in a consistent format for subsequent processing.
  • Pass existing PDF files through the workflow without modification.

How the Stabilizer Works in a Workflow

Workflow Placement

  • The Stabilizer action is typically placed at the beginning of a workflow.
  • When a PostScript file enters the workflow:
    • The Stabilizer converts it to a PDF.
    • The newly created PDF then proceeds to the next workflow step.
  • If the incoming file is already a PDF:
    • The Stabilizer passes the file through unchanged.
    • No processing or modification is applied to existing PDFs.

Example Workflow

  1. Hot Folder → Job is submitted via a hot folder.
  2. Stabilizer Action → Converts PostScript files to PDF (existing PDFs are passed through unchanged).
  3. Preflight → Optional step to check for errors (applies only to PDFs after conversion).
  4. RIP → Converts the file to a raster for output.
  5. Output → Sends the processed file to the output device (e.g., platesetter, proofer, or digital press).

Configuring the Stabilizer

Creating a Stabilizer Action

  1. Open the Navigator Server.
  2. Go to Server Setup → Manage Actions.
  3. Select New Action and choose Stabilizer from the list.
  4. Name the action appropriately (e.g., "PostScript to PDF").

Importing Stabilizer Settings

You can import Stabilizer settings from a .dpf file using the Import Files dialog:

  • Go to Server Setup → Import Files.
  • Select Stabilizer Document Parameters (*.dpf) and click Import.

Using the JobOptions Utility

The JobOptions.exe utility (found in the Navigator Server Utilities folder) allows you to create and customize Stabilizer settings:

  1. Open JobOptions.exe.
  2. Define settings for:
    • Resolution
    • Color Space
    • Compression
    • Font embedding
  3. Save the settings as a .dpf file.
  4. Import the .dpf file into the Navigator Server.



Best Practices

  • Configure Stabilizer settings to match your specific production environment.
  • Test stabilized files before deploying to production workflows.
  • Keep backup copies of custom .dpf files for easy reconfiguration.
  • When handling existing PDFs, configure other workflow actions (like preflight or color management) to handle any necessary adjustments.

Troubleshooting

IssueCauseSolution
Fonts missing in the outputFonts not embedded in the original PostScript fileEnable font embedding in the Stabilizer settings
Incorrect color outputIncorrect color profile appliedReview color settings in the .dpf file
Large file sizeHigh-resolution images not compressedAdjust compression settings in JobOptions.exe
Existing PDFs unchangedStabilizer action does not modify PDFsThis is expected behavior — apply preflight or other actions if modification is required

Summary

The Stabilizer action is a key tool for handling PostScript files in Navigator workflows. By converting PostScript files to PDF, it ensures consistent processing and reliable output. While existing PDFs are passed through unchanged, the Stabilizer reduces potential errors and increases overall workflow efficiency.