Compatibility 6 of 6
Software
i.Creation Software
PNG can be created in raster editors, illustration applications, painting tools, layout tools, and some vector applications that can rasterize an export. Examples include Adobe Photoshop, Affinity Photo, GIMP, Procreate, Krita, Adobe Illustrator, and Inkscape.
Creation software should allow the creator to control:
- Canvas and export pixel dimensions
- Transparency
- Color profile or color-space conversion
- Layered source preservation
- Export area and scaling
Available controls vary by application and export command. Always inspect the exported PNG.
ii.Editing Software
PNG can be opened by many image editors, but editing a PNG does not restore the original layers, vector paths, or live text. Use the native source file for substantial corrections whenever it is available.
An editor used for production preparation should support:
- Exact pixel dimensions and controlled resampling
- Alpha-channel inspection and edge cleanup
- Profile inspection or conversion
- Cropping, placement, mirroring, and template alignment
- Export without unintended size or quality changes
iii.Production Software
Production software may import PNG directly, convert it into a print job, or use it only as a reference. Compatibility must be confirmed with the exact software version, device, RIP, driver, and workflow.
Production software may provide:
- Device and material profiles
- White-ink or underbase generation
- Halftoning, screening, nesting, and queue control
- Mirroring, tiling, registration, and placement
- Raster engraving controls
- Contour-cut generation or association with a vector path
- Job records and repeatable presets
Import success does not prove the job is correctly configured. Preview and validate the final production job before output.