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Modern Color Management in workflow means: defining colors for reproduction and processing them in a controlled operational procedure, from the scan through the proof to the offset or digital print.
In order to insure the quality of these diverse input/output medias, the International Color Consortium (founded by Adobe, Apple, Microsoft, Silicon Graphics, Sun, Taligent, GreatagMacbeth) determined a standardized structure for color profiles, the "ICC Profile Format Specification."
Using the ICC Profile basis, a color-binding, true-to-original color reproduction with predictable and constant results is made possible, as well as the exchange of color information between different system components and cooperative partners.
Color Management Implementation
at Druckhaus Berlin-Mitte:
Each machine or partial process in repro or print is characterized by measurement of its specific color qualities, and these values are saved to an ICC color profile. As a basis, we use the IT8.7 Testchart. To create the offset standard profile, this testchart was printed with the Roland 705 offset printer under ideal conditions. In order to best approximate the proof or digital print to the printed image of our printer, the ICC profile of the machine used and our standard offset profile were set against eachother during the RIP process. With this, we can create products on digital proof machines and printers that match an offset print result as closely as possible. Among other things, this makes the personalization of high circulation printed products possible through the combination of offset and digital printing.
Something always in need of inspection is monitor calibration, so that a soft proof is always possible on screen. This is naturally a complicated undertaking, since numerous different monitors and graphics cards are in use, and the indoor lighting must be kept as constant as possible. However, we strive to attain a state in which one image looks as identical as possible on all monitors. This is always a good opportunity for cooperation with our clients. Using our testcharts, they can adjust their monitor so that they can asses how the printed result will look while they are creating the data. The test print is available from us directly, and the file IT8.7 testchart is downloadable from the "Service" page.
More on Color Management may be found in our brochure "Tips and Information for our Clients," available on our premises.
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