Color Characterization of Various Ink, Substrate and Printing Process Combinations

The gamut of colors that can be reproduced depends on the combination of ink, substrate and printing process as well as print characteristics, such as, ink density, dot gain and trapping. ANSI CGATS TR 001-1995 provided public access to color characterization data for offset printing meeting the requirements of ANSI/CGATS.6-1995 (SWOP proofing). Work on defining the color gamuts for additional substrates and printing processes is currently in process. Protocols have been developed for the press printing and colorimetric measurement of the IT8.7/3 target. A comparison of the color gamuts clearly shows the importance of using the correct characterization data to prevent out-of-gamut experiences. Use of these data as the primary colorimetric reference by all manufacturers of color separation, management and proofing systems will help improve the consistency between data prepared in, or exchanged between, systems manufactured by different vendors. It should also help to improve the communication chain among all those involved in the reproduction process. This paper provides insight into the color gamut of various reference printing conditions being developed by CGATS and ISO TC 130 with support from industry associations such as SNAP, SWOP and GCA.