What is a postscript interpreter?

The interpreter is a key component of a RIP – converting the Postscript commands in to the bit map image required by the printer. It takes more than just the output resolution in to consideration when ripping a page – items such as page size, rotation and a whole host of other device specific features are taken in to account.

Although the interpreter is the key component of any RIP, RIP manufacturers apply their own user interface and device drivers. The user interface is the mechanism through which the user specifies how the job is to be printed.