QTR-Quadtone RIP

Group,

I am brand new to the group and have only learned of the Quadton RIP a few days ago.

The internet can overwhem with information so at the recomendation of the person who 
told me about the software I am posting a few questions to the group BEFORE I download 
anything.

I currently have a Epson 1280 for home use, using regular Espon Inks ( the color cart. is 
the T009), currenlty printing with Canon Photo Paper Glossy. I run Mac G4 with OS X 
10.3.9 

I am looking for a way to print neutral Black and White prints and regular color prints on 
the same printer.

Is this Quadtone RIP designed to work with the regular Espon Inks? or would I need special 
inks? 

As best I can tell, this is a program that you launch to print and print thru the software 
which finds and controls the printer. IF I want to use Photoshop CS2 and print color am I 
correct that I can launch CS2 and print color?

Again it appears this setup is aimed to best work with matte paper. Will I be able to use 
any glossy paper if I so choose to?

My main point here are that I don't want to get into a position that I can only print B&W. I 
have taken the time to get my color printing set to my liking so I don't want to mess 
anything up.

I am more of a photographer than a tech person so I don't spend all my time learning the 
computer stuff. Is this a highly technical procress to do well?

Thanks for any and all help,

DK