CalManTool 2016 Us

Calibration Manager / Calibra-
tion Tool
Prinect
abcde
Information
Calibration Manager / Calibration Tool

Version 2016
User’s Guide
Revision 1.0
Order No. SZ.111.2210
ABC
dress Copyright © 2015 Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG.

Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG. Kurfuersten-Anlage 52–60
No part of this book may be repro- 69115 Heidelberg
duced without prior written permis- Germany
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Important notice: Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG If any problems occur with the product
We are dedicated to improving and assumes no responsibility for informa- described in this manual, please con-
enhancing our products. Conse- tion and description as far as third- tact the Heidelberg agency which is
quently, the information in this man- party products are concerned. responsible for you.
ual is subject to technical The information contained in this Order No. SZ.111.2210
modifications and other changes with- manual about performance and speed Version 2016
out notice. as well as technical data concerning Printed in Germany.
application of our products is not
legally binding as it does not consti-
tute a written contract of features.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Prinect Signa Station 1

Calibration Manager / Calibration Tool 1
Table of Contents
3
Before you start ...

About This Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Structure of this Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

What you should already know . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Further Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Symbols and Styles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Important Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
1 Introduction
Theoretical Basics of Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Dot Gain in Tone Reproduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

What Causes Dot Gain? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Process-related dot gain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Optical dot gain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Principle of Calibration Based on Process Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Linearization and Process Calibration in the Printing Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Linearization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Process Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Overview of the Structure of Calibration Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Output Workflows: Prinect MetaDimension /
Prinect Renderer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Prinect MetaDimension: Overview of the Calibration Workflow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Prinect Workflow: Overview of the Calibration Workflow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
User interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Structure and Launch of the Calibration Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
User Launch of the Calibration Managers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Prinect Server: Remote Capability of the Calibration Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Important Terms in Their Context . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Terms Relating to Calibration Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Device / Device type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Calibration group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Calibration data record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Category . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Medium (= plate material or film material) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Calibration Manager / Calibration Tool – User’s Guide 3

Table of Contents
Terms Relating to Dot Gain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Density status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Density value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Dot percentage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Data curve (actual curve) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
"Measured value" ("Measured%") . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
"Nominal value" (nominal%) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Process curve / Process curve set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
"Process value" (process%) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Tonal value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Calibration for Ink Jet Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
2 Linearization
Introduction to Linearization ............................................ 35
Create New Calibration Data Record (Linearization) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Linearization: "Angles" Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Example of operation in various cases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Linearization: "Curve Initialization" Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

"Iterative Linearization" Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Output of Test Page (Linearization) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Calibration Data Record: Show and Modify Measured Data (Linearization) . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
3 Process Calibration
Calibration Groups and Data Records as Core Elements of Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Create a New Calibration Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Create a New Calibration Data Record (Process Calibration) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Overview of Averaging Data Curves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Create a New Calibration Data Record by Copy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Iterative calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Extend Scope of an Existing Calibration Data Record (Process Calibration) . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Calibration Data Record: Show and Modify Measured Data (Process Calibration) . . . . . . . 47
Overview of Working with the Calibration Data Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Diagram => "Dot Gain" Option: Notes on Dot Gain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Diagram => Spread as displayed in a graph . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Diagram => Tolerance as displayed in a graph . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
"Nominal Values" Group => Editing Nominal Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
"Density" Group => Editing Density Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
4 Version 2016
Table of Contents
"Smooth" Button => Notes on Smoothing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Standard Mode Smoothing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Expert Mode Smoothing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Which calibration curves will be smoothed? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
"Curve Modification" group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

List box => "Modification of Measurement Values" . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
List box => "Correction of Process Deviation" . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
List box => "Modification of Calibration Curve" . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
List box => "Correction of Gray Balance" . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
"Compare with Data Record" Option + List Box (Expert Mode) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Special case: Calibration data records for ink jet printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
To create a calibration data record for ink jet printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Open calibration data record for ink jet printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
"Drop Encoding" tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
"Multilevel Configuration" tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
"Ink Limit" tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
4 Administration
"Administration > Process Curve Sets" . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Open and Edit Process Curve Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Multi Process Curve Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
What benefits do multi process curve sets have? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
What Is a multi process curve set? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Multi process curve sets in calibration data records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Multi process curve set in the OPP or in the ImpositionOutput sequence . . . . . . . . . . 68
"Administration > Print Parameters" . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Type of Printing Material in the Prinect Workflow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
"Administration > Testforms" (Expert Mode Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
"Administration > Colors" . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
"Administration > Configuration" ......................................... 72
5 All about Measuring

Basics of Physics in Determining Density Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Determination of the Density Value with a Densitometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Nature of the color filter => density status / polarization filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Use neutral basis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Determination of the Density Value with a Spectrophotometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Determination of the Spectral Density with a Spectrophotometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Table of Contents
Colorimeters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Supported Colorimeters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Connecting a Measuring Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Serial Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Extender cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Examples of Measuring Data with Strip Readers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
X-Rite QuickCal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Densitometer X-Rite DTP41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Example of Measuring Data with Hand-held Instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Measuring Data with an X-Rite 528 Densitometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
6 Import / Export
Import / Export of Calibration Groups and Data Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Import of Measured Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Procedure: Import for Process Colors for IT8 Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Procedure: Import for Spot Color for IT8 Files .............................. 95
Procedure: Import for Multiple Colors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Minispot Import . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Procedure: Minispot import for process colors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Procedure: Minispot import for multiple colors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Export of Measured Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
7 Standard Mode versus Expert Mode

Why Are There Two Modes? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Differences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Compatibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
8 Calibration Tool
Calibration Tool and the Output Workflows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Example of Architecture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Calibration Tool: Creation of Central Calibration Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Device context . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Description of the "Device Context" tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Calibration Manager: Calibration Databases and Synchronization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Description of the "Database" tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Requirements for Accessing the Central Calibration Database . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
6 Version 2016
Table of Contents
Create License File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Create the license file for Prinect MetaDimension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Create the license file on the Prinect server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Requirements for User Accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Calibration Server Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Save and Restore the Calibration Database . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Index

About This Documentation

This documentation applies to version 16 of the "Calibration Manager" and "Calibration Tool" soft-
ware. This manual contains all the information you need to work with the Calibration Manager and
the Calibration Tool.
i
i
Note: Remember that the printed documentation may differ in its contents from the online
documentation (PDF, Online Help) as it is not always possible for technical reasons to incor-
porate the latest modifications into the printed manuals. You can always find the latest
information in the online documentation.
Structure of this Documentation

The documentation describes the Calibration Manager that is also part of Calibration Tool. You will
find all other features that affect Calibration Tool only in the chapter "Calibration Tool".
Calibration Manager and Calibration Tool are available either in the Expert Mode or in the Standard
Mode, see chapter "Standard Mode versus Expert Mode". This documentation describes how to work
in the Expert Mode as this also includes the Standard Mode.
What you should already know

We assume that you are familiar with the Windows® and Mac OS X® operating systems that are sup-
ported by this application.
Further Documentation
You can find more information in the following documentation:
• Prinect Integration Manager
• Prinect Integration Manager S
• Prinect Prepress Manager S
• Prinect MetaDimension
• Prinect Image Control
• Color Toolbox.

Symbols and Styles

The following typographical conventions are used in this manual:
• References to other chapters and sections are blue (on the screen) and underlined.
• Quotes are used to indicate menus, folders, names of functions, hardware conditions, switch
settings, system messages, etc.
Example: Set the switch to "off".
• Menus, functions and sub-functions are separated by “>”.
Example: Select "File > Open...".
• A plus sign is used to indicate that several keys have to be pressed at the same time.
Example: Press Alt+A.
Important Information
Important information in the text is indicated by symbols at the side which are used as follows:
Warning: Contains information that must be taken into consideration to protect the user
from injury.
Caution: Contains information that must be taken into consideration to prevent damage to
hardware or software.
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i
Note: Contains important general or supplementary information about a specific topic.
Prerequisite: Lists requirements which must be fulfilled before the steps which follow can
be performed.
10 Version 2016
Introduction
1 Introduction
Theoretical Basics of Calibration
Dot Gain in Tone Reproduction

Dot gain during tone reproduction makes process calibration necessary and, if required, linearization.
Dot gain can be positive and negative.
Tone reproduction covers several steps, see the image below:
Tone reproduction
Film output
Film for plate

imaging
Screening
Print
PostScript Bitmap
or PDF
Plates Signatures
1. Start, for example, with a PDF job. In the job, each gray value of a separation is assigned a half-
tone between 0 and 100, corresponding to the size of a particular screen dot.
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Note: Copydot data are an exception as they cannot be calibrated by the Calibration Mana-
ger.
2. The PDF file is then converted to a bitmap by screening by the Raster Image Processor (RIP). The
RIP converts the file by reading the percentages defined in the PDF file and by creating a dot
screen where every dot has a percentage. For example, 50% means that 50% of the screen cell
is covered by the screen dot.
Screen dot
Screen cell
3. The bitmap is then output to film, plate or as a proof. Each screen dot is imaged by laser dots
on the plate in this step. In other words, a screen dot consists of several screened laser dots.

Introduction
The bitmap is first imaged to film if you are working with CtF (computer-to-film) and not with
CtP (computer-to-plate). This film is then copied to the plate.
4. The screened image is then transmitted from the plate to the signature in the press.
What Causes Dot Gain?

There are two types of dot gain:
• process-related dot gain:
When a screen dot passes from film to plate and rubber blanket onto the printing stock, its geo-
metric size and, accordingly, its tonal value can change because of various influences.
See section "Process-related dot gain", page 12.
• optical dot gain. See section "Optical dot gain", page 14.
The perceptible hue on the press sheet, that is, the actual dot percentage, materializes both through
the process-related and the optical dot gain.
Dot gain is the absolute and not the relative gain in dot percentage. For example, the overall gain is
17% if a 50% hue in the original really has a 67% dot percentage on the press sheet.
Process-related dot gain

The process-related dot gain refers to a change in the geometric dot size during a processing step.
The geometric dot size can change at three points in the process:
• at the exposure and development of the film or plate
• at the contact exposure and development of the plate in one film run
• at the printing process on the printing machine
Dot size might slightly change during exposure to plate (directly or from film). The contact exposure
of a negative film normally results in an increase of tonal value, whereas the contact exposure of a
positive film usually reduces the tonal value.
The tonal value changes at the press during transfer of the dot from the plate to the printing material
via the rubber blanket. The ink, paper, rubber blanket and printing plate are influencing factors. For
example, too much ink can be applied or the printing material does not absorb the ink well. In this
case, the ink is pressed apart, making the geometric dot size bigger.
12 Version 2016
Introduction
Example of tonal value modifications

(us: standard percentages in the USA)
1. not calibrated: desired value: 65%

48% 63%
Hue: 50% 50% 45% (us:42%) (us:57%)
PostScript job RIP Film Plate Paper
Imagesetter & Devel- Copy Print

oper
Dot gain: 5% +3%, us: -3% +15%
2. calibrated:
Hue: 50% 52%, (us: 58%) 47%, (us: 53%) 50% 65%
PostScript job RIP Film Plate Paper
Imagesetter & Devel- Copy Print

oper
Dot gain: 5% +3%, us: -3% +15%
Calibration curves
The illustration shown above displays typical tonal value modifications. In this example, the total dot
gain (from the PDF hue to the output hue of the press sheet) is 15% and the actual dot percentage
on the press sheet is 65% (based on a 50% PDF hue).

Introduction
Optical dot gain

Optical dot gain is defined as the quantity of light, which is absorbed by a specific dot in addition to
the physical dot size. This enlargement is due to the partial absorption of scattered light. By absorb-
ing scattered light the dots seem to be larger than their original size.
When looked at via microscope the physical dot size complies directly with the bitmap hue percent-
age plus physical dot gain. When viewed with the naked eye (e.g. at densitometer measurement) light
quantity seems to correspond exactly to a dot percentage being larger than the actual physical dot.
The total optically absorptive effect of the dot normally indicates the actual dot percentage.
Actual dot percentage
Dot Dot profile
Physical
Optical
dot
dot gain
Light absorbed by dot on paper or plate
14 Version 2016
Introduction
Principle of Calibration Based on Process Calibra-

tion
Please read the information relating to the terms: nominal value, measured value and process value
(see the section "Terms Relating to Dot Gain", page 32).
• When you have a curve with reference values or a process curve: Input values = nominal values
Output values = process values
This curve portrays the desired, i.e. ideal printing process.
• When you have a curve with actual values or a data curve:

Input values = nominal values
Output values = measured values.
• Calibration curve: this is determined from the process curve and the data curve as follows (see
also diagram below):
The actual dot percentage for a nominal value of 50% is to be 65%, for example, according to
the process curve. However, this tonal value is not achieved at the nominal value of 50% but at
47% as shown in the data curve. For that reason, the calibration curve assigns the tonal value
of 47% to the input tonal value of 50%.
This means that in the input data the input tonal value of 50% is replaced by the tonal value of 47%
before screening.
Creation of a calibration curve (process calibration)
How Calibration Manager computes the calibration curve (CtP only)
Process curve Data curve Calibration curve

(reference values) (actual values)
Output tonal value (tar-
Output tonal value
Calibration value
Input tonal value Input tonal value Input tonal value

(nominal value) (nominal value) (nominal value)

Introduction
Linearization and Process Calibration in the Print-

ing Process
CTP Workflow CTF Workflow
PDF / PS PDF / PS
RIP RIP
Linearization
Platesetter Filmsetter
Printing plate Film
Printing plate
Process Calibration
Press Press
Printing material Printing material
16 Version 2016
Introduction
Linearization
Linearization comprises the output process up to imaging of the plates or film (see diagram above).
The input tonal values from the PDF/PS are to be linear to the output tonal values on plate or film.
The dot percentages are measured on the plate or film.
The principle of linearization is similar to that of process calibration, only that the nominal values are
linear. An example is used to illustrate this in the diagram below. The nominal value of 75% is
replaced by the nominal value of 55% in order to obtain an output tonal value of 75%. The lineariza-
tion curve is produced by mirroring the data curve along its diagonal.
Diagram showing example of linearization:
Output tonal values (pro-

cess values / measured
values)
Data curve
75% Linearization
curve
Input tonal values

55% 75% (nominal values)

Introduction
Process Calibration
Process calibration comprises the output process up to printing to the printing material, see the
section "Linearization and Process Calibration in the Printing Process", page 16.
See also section "Principle of Calibration Based on Process Calibration", page 15.
The actual dot percentage on the printing material for a nominal value of 50% is to be 65%, for
example, according to the process curve. However, this tonal value is not achieved at the nominal
value of 50% but at 47% as shown in the data curve. For that reason, the calibration curve assigns
the tonal value of 47% to the input tonal value of 50%.
Diagram showing example of process calibration:
Output tonal values (pro-

cess values / measured val-
ues)
Data curve
65% Process curve
Input tonal values

(nominal values)
47% 50%
18 Version 2016
Introduction
Overview of the Structure of Calibration Data

In the Calibration Manager, calibration data are managed in calibration groups and calibration data
records. The calibration data are stored in a calibration database.
• Calibration group: Is assigned to a device (imagesetter, e.g. Suprasetter). Comprises one or more
calibration data records.
• Calibration data record: Several calibration data records are pooled in one calibration group.
A calibration data record comprises the following data:
· Parameters describing an output configuration. These are the screen used, colors, print
parameters, process curves, etc.
The calibration data records that suit a job are found in Prinect MetaDimension or in the
Prinect Renderer on the basis of these parameters.
· Data curves and the calibration curves calculated from them and the process curves.

Introduction
Schematic diagram of the structure of the calibration data:
Calibration group 1 Data record 1

(e.g. for the Suprasetter) e.g. with calibration curves for CMYK
e.g. with parameters
• 80 screen
• glossy coated paper, etc.
Data record 2
e.g. with a calibration curve for spot
color red
e.g. with parameters
• 80 screen
• glossy coated paper, etc.
.
.
.
Calibration group 2 Data record 1. . .

(e.g. for Tiff-B export)
Data record 2. . .
.
Data record 3. . .
.
.
20 Version 2016
Introduction
Output Workflows: Prinect MetaDimension /

Prinect Renderer
Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG can provide the following output workflows:
• Prinect MetaDimension Workflow:
Rendering in Prinect MetaDimension
• Prinect Workflow:
Rendering with the Prinect Renderer that can be integrated into the
· Prinect Integration Manager,
· Prinect Integration Manager S,
· Prinect Prepress Manager S.
If Prinect MetaDimension is combined with the Prinect workflow in your architecture, the Prinect
server can output either through its own Renderer or through Prinect MetaDimension.

Introduction
Prinect MetaDimension: Overview of the Calibration Workflow

The diagram below illustrates how calibration is handled when a job is processed in Prinect MetaDi-
mension. The entire route is set up for one specific device, called Device 1 in this example.
VP = Virtual Printer; OPP = Output Plan
Job; PDF with CMYK, for example
VP + OPP for Device 1 Calibration Mana-

ger of Prinect
The OPP has following parameters:
MetaDimension
- Calibration group for Device 1
Prinect MetaDimension
- Screening parameters
- Print parameters
- Other calibration parameters
Look for calibration data based on Calibration data-

parameters base with calibra-
tion groups, also
Calibration + screening for Device 1
Output to Device 1 (imagesetter)
Output of plate
The Prinect MetaDimension output devices are calibrated using Prinect MetaDimension's Calibration
Manager.
Simplified procedure for calibration:
• Prerequisite: A calibration group with suitable data records was created for Device 1 using Pri-
nect MetaDimension's Calibration Manager.
• The job data with the colors. e.g. CMYK, are located in the hotfolder for Device 1.
• The job data are read in by the VP and prepared for this Device 1 using the setup of the OPP.
• The calibration group that will be used and other calibration parameters for Device 1 were
already selected in the OPP.
Firstly, the system looks for this calibration group in the calibration database. It then looks for a
suitable data record in this calibration group. This data record must use the colors of the job and
22 Version 2016
Introduction
match the setup of the OPP. In other words, the screening parameters, print parameters, etc.
defined in the OPP must match the parameters in the data record. (The "Match, Else Error" cal-
ibration rule must be set.)
• When a suitable calibration data record is found, calibrated screening is then run based on the
calibration curves in this record.
• The bitmap is output to the device (imagesetter).
• The device images the plate.

Introduction
Prinect Workflow: Overview of the Calibration Workflow

The diagram below illustrates how calibration is handled when a job is processed in the Prinect work-
flow. The route is set up for one specific device, called Device 1 in this example.
CMYK job incl. defined ImpositionOut-

put sequence
ImpositionOutput sequence for Calibration Mana-

Device 1 ger of the Prinect
The sequence has following parame- server (remote
Prinect Renderer
ters: capability)
- Calibration group for Device 1
- Screening parameters
- Print parameters
Look for calibration data Calibration data-

base with calibra-
tion groups, also
Calibration + screening
for Device 1
Output to Device1 (imagesetter)
Output of plate
A Prinect Renderer output device is calibrated using the Calibration Manager of the Prinect server.
Point to note: This Calibration Manager has remote capabilities. The user interface can be installed
on any other Windows computer. section "Prinect Server: Remote Capability of the Calibration
Manager", page 27
24 Version 2016
Introduction
Simplified procedure for calibration:

• Prerequisite: A calibration group with suitable data records was created for Device 1 using the
Calibration Manager of the Prinect Renderer.
• Firstly, define the sequence templates for the job. In the ImpositionOutput sequence, select
Device 1 as the output device and the calibration group you created beforehand for this device
as well as other calibration parameters.
• The job is linked to a certain series of sequences, including the ImpositionOutput sequence, and
is processed accordingly.
• During processing, the system looks for the calibration group in the calibration database as
required by the ImpositionOutput sequence. It then looks for a suitable data record in this cali-
bration group. This data record must use the colors of the job and match the setup of the Impo-
sitionOutput sequence. In other words, the screening parameters, print parameters, etc. defined
in the sequence must match the parameters in the data record. (The "Match, Else Error" calibra-
tion rule must be set.)
• When a suitable calibration data record is found, calibrated screening is then run based on the
calibration curves in this record.
• The bitmap is output to the device (imagesetter).
• The device images the plate.
User interface
The following items apply to output devices that are connected to a Renderer:
• Display of the calibration groups ("Process Calibration" or "Linearization" menu):
There is a column for the "computer name". The is the computer on which the Renderer is run-
ning.
• Device names on Calibration Tool:
Output devices that are connected to a Renderer display the name of the computer on which the
Prinect server is running in parentheses.
Device name (computer name of the Prinect server)

Introduction
Structure and Launch of the Calibration Software

The calibration software is available in the following three manifestations:
• Calibration software integrated into Prinect MetaDimension for calibration of the output devices
managed by Prinect MetaDimension.
• Calibration software integrated into a Prinect server for calibration of the output devices of the
Prinect Renderer.
• Calibration Tool as a stand-alone solution with connection to the workflow software (Prinect
MetaDimension, Prinect server).
See also section "Output Workflows: Prinect MetaDimension / Prinect Renderer", page 21.
The calibration software in each case consists of
• a calibration server as the core that manages the calibration database and
• the Calibration Manager as the user interface.
The calibration server of Prinect MetaDimension and the Prinect server also starts or stops automat-
ically when you start or stop your workflow software.
The calibration server of Calibration Tool starts automatically when a user logs in. In this case, it's
also possible to start and stop the calibration server using the "Calibration Server Control" applica-
tion. See also the section "Calibration Server Control", page 117.
The Calibration Manager of the Prinect server has remote capabilities. In the case of Prinect MetaDi-
mension and Calibration Tool, you can only launch the Calibration Manager locally on the computer
concerned.
The Calibration Manager launches differently in each case. See below for details.
User Launch of the Calibration Managers

• Calibration Manager in Prinect MetaDimension:
· Option 1:
"Start > All Programs > Heidelberg Prinect MetaDimension > Calibration Manager".
· Option 2: using the Printmanager

"Administration > Resources > Calibration > Start".
• Calibration Manager on the Prinect server:
"Start > All Programs > Heidelberg Prinect Workflow > Calibration Manager".
• Calibration Manager of Calibration Tool:
"Start > All Programs > Heidelberg Prinect > Color Toolbox > Calibration Manager".
26 Version 2016
Introduction
Prinect Server: Remote Capability of the Calibration Manager

The Calibration Server (core program of the calibration software) and the local Calibration Manager
run as the user interface on the Prinect server.
The Calibration Manager of the Prinect server has remote capabilities. The user interface can also be
installed on any other Windows computer.
Restriction: If you work with several Calibration Managers, only one at a time can be connected to the
Calibration Server of the Prinect server.
When a new version of the calibration software is installed on the Prinect server, the remote Calibra-
tion Managers are updated automatically after the program starts.
You can access the central calibration data of Calibration Tool through a remote Calibration Manager
just like from a local Calibration Manager.
Installation of the remote Calibration Manager:
1. You are at the computer on which the remote Calibration Manager will be installed.
2. Open a Windows Explorer.
3. Browse to the directory via the network
\\computer name of the Prinect server\PTConfig\Installer.
4. Double-click CalibrationSetup.exe.

Introduction
Important Terms in Their Context
Terms Relating to Calibration Data
Device / Device type

• "Device": Output device of Prinect MetaDimension or a Prinect Renderer. It can be a physical
imagesetter or a TIFF-B device.
• Device type: A device type is assigned to each device. This assignment is communicated to the
Calibration Manager.
You can display the device types as follows:
· Prinect MetaDimension: "Devices > Complete Device List" > double-click the device >
table with assigned types.
· Prinect server and Renderer: "Administration > PrePress Devices".
Just one device is always assigned to a calibration group. You do this by selecting the device when
you create a calibration group. The device type is set automatically with the device.
• Prinect MetaDimension: A selection of calibration groups is available in an OPP for a device.
Only calibration groups that have the same device type as the device of the OPPs are found in
this selection. Furthermore, you can only select calibration groups that contain at least one
enabled calibration data record.
• Prinect server and Renderer: A selection of calibration groups is available in the ImpositionOut-
put sequence for a device. Only calibration groups that have the same device type as the device
of the ImpositionOutput sequence are found in this selection. Furthermore, you can only select
calibration groups that contain at least one enabled calibration data record.
The following device types are available:

• Type for a concrete imagesetter, e.g. Suprasetter
• "TiffB Export" type: Output of Tiff-B data
• for a "Generic" device: all calibration groups with a "Generic" device type display for selection
in all the OPPs (Meta) or ImpositionOutput sequences (Prinect) if they have at least one enabled
calibration data record.
This is advisable if you have devices with different device types, but all with the same calibra-
tion, for example, different types of Suprasetter.
28 Version 2016
Introduction
Example for selection of the calibration groups in an OPP (Prinect MetaDimension) or an Imposition-
Output sequence (Prinect Cockpit):
Devices and device types in the Cali- Selection of calibration

bration Manager groups
Calibration group 1 Selection for Suprasetter 1:
• Calibration group 1
Device = Suprasetter 1 • Calibration group 2
Device type = Suprasetter • Calibration group 4
Calibration group 2
Selection for Suprasetter 2:
Device = Suprasetter 2 • Calibration group 1
Device type = Suprasetter • Calibration group 2

Calibration group 3
Selection for TiffB Export:

Device = Tiff-B Export Device
Device type = TiffB Export
Calibration group 4
Device = Generic
Device type = Generic

Introduction
Calibration group
A certain device, along with a device type, is assigned to each calibration group. This is done when
you create the group. In this way, all the calibration data records in a calibration group are also
assigned to this device.
The calibration group is then selected for calibration:
• Prinect MetaDimension: when you create an OPP (see above in "Device").
• Prinect Cockpit: when you create an ImpositionOutput sequence
Calibration data record

• A calibration data record in process calibration has for each color it was created as many as
three data curves and the calibration curves calculated from the data curves and the process
curves. The amount of colors and numerous other calibration parameters (screen, process curve
set, print parameters, etc.) are set when you create the data record.
• A calibration data record in linearization contains one data curve and one calibration curve for
each of the angles of the screen system.
Category
There are three categories of calibration groups.
The category selected indicates which print parameters (max. 3: type of printing material, press, ink
series) are important for calibration and consequently display on the user interface for setup (when
a calibration data record is being created, see the section "Create a New Calibration Data Record
(Process Calibration)", page 42).
Category 1 thru 3 Print Parameters

CtF, CtP Type of printing material,
Press,
Ink series
Direct Imaging press (DI) Type of printing material,
Ink series
Screening proofers Type of printing material
30 Version 2016
Introduction
Medium (= plate material or film material)

The medium is selected when you create a calibration data record. Because a calibration group is
linked to a specific device, the amount of available media when you are creating the data record is
specified by the device.
The following media are available for the following three device types:
Device / Device type Archive medium

Device = concrete imageset- All plate materials that the device makes avail-
ter. able are available for selection.
Device = "Tiff-B Export "Default" is always the medium.
Device" In a Tiff-B data workflow, the plate material is
selected at the Prinect Shooter.
"Generic" device "Default" is always the medium.
Device type = "Generic"
If "Default" is set as the medium, you generally want that the calibration data record is available for
all available media. To make this possible, you can apply it to all the media after you created the cal-
ibration data record as follows:
1. Click "Process Calibration" or "Linearization".
2. Open the calibration group you want.
3. Select the calibration data record you want.
4. Set "All Media".
5. Click "Apply".
(See also section "Extend Scope of an Existing Calibration Data Record (Process Calibration)", page
46)

Introduction
Terms Relating to Dot Gain
Density status
See section "Nature of the color filter => density status / polarization filter", page 75.
Density value
The density value is a dimension for the absorption of light by a color. The density value is determined
with a densitometer or a spectrophotometer.
When determined with a spectrophotometer: The density value is calculated from the spectrum using
numeric filter curves.
The actual dot percentage is computed from the density value.
See also section "Basics of Physics in Determining Density Values", page 73.
Dot percentage
• Geometric or physical dot percentage:
This dot percentage results from the purely geometric screen dot size in the screen cell. Only the
process-related dot gain that solely affects the geometric dot size is taken into account.
The optical dot gain is not included in this case.
• Actual dot percentage:
This value results from the process-related dot gain and from the optical dot gain.
The actual dot percentage reflects the output tonal value on the printing material that can actu-
ally be perceived by the human eye.
Measurement: The density value is determined with a densitometer. The actual dot percentage
is computed from the density value.
Data curve (actual curve)

x axis = nominal values
y axis = measured values
Data curvesee page 15
32 Version 2016
Introduction
"Measured value" ("Measured%")

This can also be referred to as the actual output tonal value or actual (densitometric) dot percentage.
• Process calibration: The tonal value that is actually produced is measured after printing. The
value is measured on the printing material using a densitometer.
The densitometer measures how much light a color absorbs in a certain wavelength range. The
density value is the dimension for absorption. The density value is converted to a dot percent-
age. The actual dot percentage is the output tonal value that is measured and can be perceived
approximately by the human eye.
• Linearization: After output to plate or film, the value is measured on the plate with a dotmeter
or on the film with a transparency densitometer.
The difference between the nominal and measured value arises through the process-related and the
optical dot gain (see above).
"Nominal value" (nominal%)

This can also be referred to as the input tonal value.
The job data include details about the tonal values on which screening will be based. The size of a
screen dot as an input value is a purely geometric dimension. This means that a nominal value of
50% is a tonal value of 50% where 50% of a screen cell is covered, i.e. printed.
The nominal value is the x axis value in the process and data curve (see page 15).
Process curve / Process curve set

x axis = nominal values
y axis = process values
Process curve see page 15
A process curve set provides the process curves for a certain color set.
You will find the process curve sets as a resource in "Administration > Process Curve Sets" (for more
details, see see page 61).
"Process value" (process%)

This can also be referred to as the output or target tonal value desired.
A dot gain compared to the input tonal value or nominal value is something which is expected. An
ideal value or target value is defined for this dot gain. The process value states how great the output
tonal value ideally should be.
In printing, the process value and and the measured value generally deviate. Calibration is used to
modify the input tonal values before screening so that the process values will actually be achieved.
See also the section "Principle of Calibration Based on Process Calibration", page 15.

Introduction
Tonal value
The term "tonal value" is used in many different ways. As a nominal value, the tonal value is an input
dimension that reproduces the purely physical size of the screen dot. As a measured value or process
value, the tonal value is an output dimension for the actual dot percentage.
Calibration for Ink Jet Printing

Calibration for ink jet printing is subject to different laws to those for offset printing because of dif-
ferent physical factors.
The resolution is generally much lower than with conventional resolutions in offset printing. This
restriction is confronted with a new variable factor in ink jet printing, the size of the ink drop. In offset
printing, the volume of ink applied with set solid tints is defined only by the number of printing screen
dots. In ink jet printing, not only the number of ink drops but also the size of them can vary, in other
words the ink volume per screen dot.
The print quality depends essentially on how the number of drops and the drop sizes are combined
together. This means that optimization takes place on two levels and is reflected by the term "multi-
level configuration" (see section "Special case: Calibration data records for ink jet printing", page 59).
34 Version 2016
Linearization
2 Linearization
Introduction to Linearization
Operation of linearization is in many points identical to operation of process calibration.
Process calibration is more comprehensive (see the section "Linearization and Process Calibration in
the Printing Process", page 16).
For that reason, process calibration is described in detail and you can find how to use linearization
in chapter 3, "Process Calibration".
In the sections below, you will find items that deviate from or are supplementary to process calibra-
tion.
Create New Calibration Data Record (Lineariza-

tion)
See also section "Create a New Calibration Data Record (Process Calibration)", page 42.
1. Click "Linearization".
2. Select the calibration group you want and open it.
3. Click the "New" button.
Linearization: "Angles" Group

This is where you define the angles for which you would like to create linearization curves. The angles
are identified by the colors of the screen system. The colors are assigned to the angles in the RIP.
Unlike process calibration, there is only one data curve per angle. This means that the option of aver-
aging several data curves that is found in process calibration does not exist in linearization.
User-defined screen systems can have more than the four default angles for CMYK. The user interface
in "Angles" expands to include more than the CMYK angles if you select such a screen system (more
details below).
Basically, there are the following two scenarios:
• The screen frequency for the various angles is identical or very similar. In this case you can use
one linearization curve for all the angles.
• The screen frequency for the various angles differs greatly. In this case, you should also use dif-
ferent linearization curves for angles with a different screen frequency. (A finer screen usually
has different dot gains to a coarse screen.)

Linearization
Example of operation in various cases

• Standard case: CMYK have a very similar screen frequency. A linearization curve is created for
K and also used for CMY:
• CMK have a similar screen frequency, but a finer screen will be used for Y ("IS Y fine"). A linear-
ization curve is created for K and also used for CM. A separate linearization curve must be cre-
ated for Y:
• You have a user-defined screen system with more than four angles. The screen frequency for the
various angles is identical or very similar. For that reason, you can use one linearization curve
for all the angles.
To do this, set the "Any Angle" option:
• You have a user-defined screen system with more than four angles, e.g. CMYK, Orange and
Green. CMK, Orange and Green have a similar screen frequency, but a finer screen will be used
for Y.
A linearization curve is created for K and also used for CM, Orange and Green. A separate lin-
earization curve must be created for Y.
36 Version 2016
Linearization
"Use for other Angles the Curve for the Angle": This is where you can select which of the two
linearization curves (the one for K or for Y) will be used for the other angles (Orange and Green).
In this example, it is K or Black:
• You have a user-defined screen system with more than four angles, e.g. CMYK, Orange and
Green. The non-CMYK angles, Orange and Green, each need linearization curves that are differ-
ent to those for the CMYK angles.
You remedy this by using separate calibration data records. The first calibration data record
defines the linearization curves for CMYK. You define a separate calibration data record for every
other angle for which a CMYK linearization curve is not suited.
Set "Angle given by Name (except CMYK)" for a non-CMYK angle and in the box below this select
the angle for which you will define this calibration data record (in this case "Green"):

Linearization
Linearization: "Curve Initialization" Group

• "Curve Initialization > Use Adaptive Access Algorithm for Curve Initialization":
If linearization curves are available for various screen frequencies of a screen system, it is pos-
sible to calculate a linearization curve for a screen frequency that is not linearized so far.
In other words, if you have linearization curves for a 60 and 80 screen, for example, you could
interpolate a linearization curve for a 70 screen from them, in this way avoiding a new lineariza-
tion for this screen.
"Iterative Linearization" Group

"Iterative Linearization" is equivalent to "Iterative Calibration" in process calibration (see the section
"Iterative calibration", page 45 in process calibration).
Output of Test Page (Linearization)

The function for output of a test page is available only in the Calibration Manager of Prinect MetaDi-
mension and Prinect server, but not in Calibration Tool.
Output of a test page allows test pages to be output automatically to platesetters and imagesetters
to create or correct a linearization curve.
Procedure:
1. Click "Linearization".
4. a) "Print Testpage Uncalibrated": Triggers output of an uncalibrated version of the test page.
b) "Print Testpage Calibrated": A linearized version of the test page can be output if the data
record is enabled (green traffic light).
The test page is then output in each case with the screen parameters of the data record.
38 Version 2016
Linearization
Calibration Data Record: Show and Modify Mea-

sured Data (Linearization)
"Curve Modification" group
"Curve Modification > Correction of Linearization Deviation":
This function is equivalent to "Correction of Process Deviation" in process calibration (see the section
"List box => "Correction of Process Deviation"", page 57 in process calibration).
Import of a minispot is not available for this function in linearization. The data measured on plate or
film for correction will be entered manually into the "Modify" column.

Process Calibration
3 Process Calibration
Calibration Groups and Data Records as Core Ele-

ments of Calibration
Calibration groups and calibration data records are the core elements of calibration.
A calibration data record reflects the properties of a printing process that are critical for calibration.
It contains the data curves required for calibration of a printing process and calibration curves for cer-
tain colors or angles.
A calibration group comprises a quantity of calibration data records for a Prinect MetaDimension or
Prinect Renderer output device. In this way, it organizes the calibration data records of the various
output devices.
Before you can create calibration data records, you must already have a calibration group for your
device, either you created one yourself or a calibration group is already available.
Create a New Calibration Group

1. Click "Process Calibration".
3. "Create Calibration Group" dialog: Type in a name for the group and select the parameters you
want (see also the section "Terms Relating to Calibration Data", page 28).
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Note: To create a calibration group for ink jet printing, select a concrete ink jet device or
alternatively "Generic" as the device and "Inkjet" as the category.

Process Calibration
Create a New Calibration Data Record (Process

Calibration)
• "Name": Name of the new calibration data record
• "Color" group: This is where you define all the colors for which this calibration data record will
have a calibration curve.
· "Process Color(s)": This is where you select a single color or the colors of CMYK that you
want.
"Choose Colors..." (at the end of the "Colors" list box): This is where you select the colors
for calibration of a multicolor printing process.
"Use the Data Record also for Spotcolors": When this option is set, the calibration curve
of the selected color is also available for calibration of any spot colors that may be in a
job.
· "Spot color": You can create a calibration curve separately for each spot color. If you
want, you can take the name of the color from a color table.
· "Any Spotcolor": You can create a calibration curve that is applicable for all spot colors
in the job.
• "Screening" group: Screen-specific setup.
• "Medium": When you select your device for the calibration group, you also set which media is
available for selection. These media display in this box.
• "Process Curve Set": Select a process curve set that will be used together with the measured
data to create the calibration curves.
See Process curve / Process curve set in the section "Terms Relating to Dot Gain", page 32. See
also section ""Administration > Process Curve Sets"", page 61.
• "Print Parameters": Print parameters describe the properties of a printing process after the plate
is created. See the section ""Administration > Print Parameters"", page 69.
42 Version 2016
Process Calibration
• "Calibration Data Record Properties":
· "One Calibration Curve for all Colors": You already set the colors that you want to cali-
brate in "Color". This option now lets you select whether the same calibration curve will
be used for each of these colors or whether each color will have its own calibration
curve.
"Measured Color(s)": This is where you define averaging for a calibration curve that you
wish to use for all the colors. You select a combination of process colors. The data for
the selected colors are averaged. The calibration curve is then computed from the mean
data and the process curve set.
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Note: We recommend that you create a separate calibration curve for every color (see
below section Overview of Averaging Data Curves).
· "Number of Measurement Curves per Color": You can average as many as three data
curves for every color.
Example: You would like to calculate only one calibration curve for all the colors using
"CMY" with two curves per color. This gives you one data curve that was averaged using
six data curves.
See also section "Overview of Averaging Data Curves", page 44.
· "Front/Back": In this list box, you can set whether the calibration data record will be
used on the front and back, only on the front or only on the back.
· "Testform": See also section ""Administration > Testforms" (Expert Mode Only)", page 70.
4. Click "OK". A new calibration data record is created.

All the main parameters that you set when creating a calibration data record display as a table in the
open calibration group for that data record ("Colors", "Screen System", etc.).

Process Calibration
Overview of Averaging Data Curves

• Case 1 "separate calibration" (recommended!), for CMYK or subsets (CMY, CM, etc.):
You can average as many as three data curves for every color. A calibration curve results for
every color. Notation "CMYK".
• Case 2 "indiscrete calibration", for CMYK or subsets (CMY, CM, etc.):

All the data curves are averaged. One calibration curve results that will be used for all the pro-
cess colors. Notation "CMYK(CMY)".
Overview: Averaging of data curves; M=data curve
Colors Max. three Case 1: Case 2:

data Averaging based on Averaging based on
curves per curves of one color curves of all colors
color
Cyan M1 M1 thru M3 averaged
M2 =>
M3 Calibration curve for cyan
Magenta M4 M4 thru M6 averaged
M5 =>
M6 Calibration curve for M1 thru M9 averaged =>
magenta One calibration curve for
Yellow M7 M7 thru M9 averaged all process colors
M8 =>
M9 Calibration curve for yel-
low
Black M10 M10 thru M12 averaged
M11 =>
M12 Calibration curve for
black
Spot M1 M1 thru M3 averaged
color
M2 => -----------
M3 Calibration curve for this
spot color
44 Version 2016
Process Calibration
Create a New Calibration Data Record by Copy

You can create a new calibration data record by copying an existing data record:
3. Select the source data record you want.
4. Click the "Copy" button.
The dialog is the same as described in the section "Create a New Calibration Data Record (Process
Calibration)", page 42, only that iterative calibration is also possible when you copy a data record.
Iterative calibration
Iterative calibration allows you to create a new calibration data record based upon a previously cali-
brated and proofed test chart.
The process calibration used for proofing the calibrated test chart ("old" process calibration data
record) is subtracted out of the values measured for that test chart. The result is a new data record
with adapted measuring values that can become the basis of a "new" process calibration.
Working with Iterative Calibration

1. First of all, measure the calibrated and proofed test chart.
2. Click "New" to create a data record (containing the original values) and enter the measured val-
ues.
3. Select the new data record and click "Copy".
4. Select a name for the new calibration data record in "Name". This name will also be used for the
new process calibration.
5. Check the box next to "A Process Calibration was used to Print the Testform".
6. In the "Data Record" list box, select the old process calibration data record that was used to
print the test chart.
7. Click "Ok" to create the new data record.

Process Calibration
Extend Scope of an Existing Calibration Data

Record (Process Calibration)
When you create a new calibration data record, you specify the screening parameters and medium
that this data record will be applied to.
In the next step you can extend this group of parameters so that the calibration data record will apply
also to all or several screen systems or all or several media.
3. Select the calibration data record you want. You will see the following options below the list of
calibration data records:
• "All Screen Systems AM" / "Ale Screen Systems FM"
• "All Dot Shapes"
• "All Resolutions"
• "All Frequencies"
• "All Media"
If you set "All Screen Systems AM", for example, the selected calibration data record will be applica-
ble for all AM screen systems. The same is applicable for "All Dot Shapes", etc. "All Media" means for
all the media of the device of the calibration group.
You can also extend the scope of application specifically for some or all of the options. The screen
systems will be taken as an example of how to do this:
1. "All Screen Systems AM": not selected.
Below this option, there is a list for the screen systems that the calibration data record can be
used on. To begin with, only the screen system that you set when creating the calibration data
record is entered here.
2. In the list box below this, select the screen system that you wish to be also affected by the data
record.
3. Click the up arrow to add the screen system to the list of screen systems. Click the down arrow
to remove it again from there.
4. Click "Apply".
The same procedure applies to the lists of dot shapes and media.
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Process Calibration
Calibration Data Record: Show and Modify Mea-

sured Data (Process Calibration)
To go to this dialog:
3. Select the calibration data record you want and open it.
Overview of Working with the Calibration Data Record

• Diagrams and tables displaying data
Normally, dot percentages display both in the table and in the diagrams. As an alternative, you
can set the "Dot Gain" option so that dot gain will display instead in the diagram and table.
· Dot gain, section "Diagram => "Dot Gain" Option: Notes on Dot Gain", page 48.
· Spread, section "Diagram => Spread as displayed in a graph", page 50.
· Tolerance, section "Diagram => Tolerance as displayed in a graph", page 51.
• Input / import of data
· Editing nominal values, section ""Nominal Values" Group => Editing Nominal Values",
page 51.
· Editing dot percentages or density values, section ""Density" Group => Editing Density
Values", page 52.
· Import of measured data, section "Import of Measured Data", page 92
· Import of minispots, section "Minispot Import", page 98.
• Modification of the measured data
· Smooth, section ""Smooth" Button => Notes on Smoothing", page 53.
· Modification of curves, section ""Curve Modification" group", page 56.
• Comparison of calibration data records
· section ""Compare with Data Record" Option + List Box (Expert Mode)", page 58.

Process Calibration
Diagram => "Dot Gain" Option: Notes on Dot Gain

Dot gain is the difference between the output tonal value (process value or measured value) and the
linear value. Without dot gain, the output tonal value would be identical to the input tonal value; in
other words, the measured tonal value would be equivalent to the nominal value.
See the diagram below for an example:
• For an nominal value of 50%:
Input value (nominal value) = 50%

=> linear output value = 50%
Process value = 65%
=> dot gain = 65% - 50% = 15%.
This means that at 50% the process is to have a dot gain of 15%.
• For an nominal value of 47%:
Input value (nominal value) = 47%

=> linear output value = 47%
Measured value = 65%
=> dot gain = 65% - 47% = 18%.
This means that at 47% the process shows a dot gain of 18%.
48 Version 2016
Process Calibration
Schematic diagram of the dot gain
Output tonal values

(process values /
measured values)
Data curve
65% Process curve
47% 50% Input tonal values

(nominal values)
Dot gain
Graph of the dot gain
Dot percentage view: Dot gain view:
On the left, you see a process curve and a data curve above the linear curve (red).
In the dot gain view on the right, the linear curve (red) from the left diagram becomes the zero line
(also red).
Graphically, the dot percentage view is tilted effectively by 45° to the right.

Process Calibration
Diagram => Spread as displayed in a graph

Spread is the dot gain difference between CMY.
ISO standard 12647-2 specifies a spread of less than 5% in the midtone. In the diagram below, you
see a spread that exceeds this value. The maximum spread is marked by the red line.
You view this diagram with the following settings:
• Dot gain view
• "View" = "Measured Values" (multiple colors)
• "Color(s)" = CMY
• Prerequisite: The process curve set has a curve for CMY for which a spread value is defined.
High- Midtone Shadows

lights
Spread is important for gray balance. If gray values are made up of CMY, the dot gains of the various
colors may not differ too widely as gray can have a color cast if this happens.
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Process Calibration
Diagram => Tolerance as displayed in a graph

For a calibrated print process, the dot gains may differ from the process values only within a set tol-
erance. In a process check, the measured data of the calibrated print process should be within this
tolerance range.
The tolerance range displays as a green area around the process curve. See also the diagram in the
section "Graph of the dot gain", page 49.
(graph with the setting
"View" = "Process + Measured Values")
"Nominal Values" Group => Editing Nominal Values

A) Manual input:
1. In the box beside "Insert", type in the nominal values to be added, each separated by a blank.
2. Click the "Insert" button. The added values display in the table and in the diagram. Matching
measured values are interpolated for any data curve that may be present.
B) Input via test chart:

(You can find predefined test charts in "Administration > Testforms". These are available in this dialog
in the "Testform" list box.)
1. "Testform" list box: Select the test chart you want from the list.
2. Click "Set Testform". As a result, all its nominal values are set by default.

Process Calibration
"Density" Group => Editing Density Values

The "Density" group lets you enter the tonal values as density values instead of dot percentages. In
other words, it provides you with a way of editing density values.
• "Dot Percentage" set: Is the default. The table and diagram show dot percentages.
• "Density" set: You can set this option only if you entered a plausible "solid density". This value
is the density value at 100% dot percentage relative to paper white.
The "Measured%" column now displays as "Measured D" so that the table now contains the
editable density values in this column. (In process curves, the column displays as "Process D".)
The density values are never shown as a diagram but are always converted immediately to dot
percentages and shown as such.
• "Info" list box:
A density value fundamentally only provides you with information if the density status is known
and if a polarization filter was used when measuring the data (see the section "Nature of the
color filter => density status / polarization filter", page 75).
For your own record, this option lets you add comments about how you measured density.
· "Select Wavelength: You can select this only if you have a data record with a spot color.
For spectral densities, you can select the wavelength with maximum absorption and
note this using the Info box.
When you repeat spectral density measurements, you should always make sure to mea-
sure using the same wavelength. The reason for this is that the wavelength at which the
color shows maximum absorption is the set reference point that enables you to compare
your results.
See also section "Procedure: Import for Spot Color for IT8 Files", page 95.
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Process Calibration
"Smooth" Button => Notes on Smoothing

Faulty measured values can cause unwanted outliers in the data curves. These are eliminated when
you smooth the data and the original data curve is replaced by the smoothed data curve.
We recommend that you make a backup of your original data before smoothing them!
• "Smooth" button:
· In the Standard Mode, smoothing is based on the spline method.
· In the Expert Mode, dialogs for selecting the smooth method display (see below), and
after that you can start smoothing. A green preview of the smooth curve appears beside
the original curve.
• "Undo Smooth" button: This button lets you undo a smoothing operation you did.
Standard Mode Smoothing

• Smooth based on the spline method.
• Smoothing is possible once only per color after you open a data record.

Process Calibration
Expert Mode Smoothing

In the Expert Mode, the dialog below displays, allowing you to choose from six smoothing methods:
Explanation of these smoothing methods:

• "Polynom 4. Degree, Range [0 ... 100]" smooths the curve (measuring values) ranging from 0%
to 100% (from point 1 to point 4)
• "Polynom 4. Degree, Range [Begin of area coverage ...100]" smooths the curve from the start of
dot percentage to 100% (from point 2 to point 4)
• "Polynom 4. Degree, Range [0 ... Begin of solid area]" smooths the curve from 0% to the start
of solid area (from point 1 to point 3)
• "Polynom 4. Degree, Range [Begin of area coverage ... Begin of solid area]" smooths the curve
between the start of dot percentage to the start of solid area (from point 2 to point 3)
• "Spline": A spline method is applied to smooth the curve
• "2-Polynom": Smoothing is based on a pair of polynomes, whose parameters have to be selected

manually:
54 Version 2016
Process Calibration
Which calibration curves will be smoothed?

See section "Overview of Averaging Data Curves", page 44.
The mean curves will be smoothed.
• Case 1 for separate calibration, CMYK:
A mean value is produced from two or three data curves that are to be processed. The resulting
mean curve is smoothed for each color (process color or spot color).
• Case 2 for indiscrete calibration, CMYK (CMY):
Only for process colors: All the data curves of all the process colors are averaged. The one mean
curve that results from this is smoothed.

Process Calibration
"Curve Modification" group

Warning: You should make sure to create a copy of your data record before you modify its
curves. If you do not, you run the risk of losing your original data irrevocably by modifying
them.
1. List box below "Curve Modification": Select the edit or correction function you want:
• "Modification of Measurement Values"
• "Correction of Process Deviation"
• "Modification of Calibration Curve"
• "Correction of Gray Balance"
See below for a description.
2. The list box is enabled when you check the box to its left. Afterwards, the "Modify%" column
displays as well in the table and you can edit it. The modification values that display depend on
the edit function you selected.
Three curves display:
• In the color concerned: Modified data curve or calibration curve
• Green: Curves showing modification values
• Orange: Original curve
3. Click "Modify" to apply the change.

Remove the tick from the check box if you do not wish to apply the change.
List box => "Modification of Measurement Values"

This edit function lets you, for example, apply the calibration of one print route to a second one if the
differences in dot gain are known for both routes.
Example: You have two print routes with two different presses. Let's also assume that you know that
the dot gain in output on the second route is always 5% higher than that on the first route.
In this case, it is enough to measure the dot gains of the first route and to create a data curve from
them. You can obtain the data curve for calibration of the second route by modifying the data curve
of the first route. In this example, a modified curve that increases the measured values by 5% in the
midtone would be used.
56 Version 2016
Process Calibration
List box => "Correction of Process Deviation"

This function allows you to correct a process calibration that did not come up to the calibration target
(i.e. the prescribed dot gain) defined by the process curve set.
Example: The process curve set for a process calibration defines (for cyan) a dot gain of 15% for the
nominal value of 50%. In print, however, you have 18% dot gain for cyan. In other words, a dot per-
centage of 68% is measured for the nominal value of 50% on the calibrated test chart. This gives you
a process deviation of +3%.
You can now modify the measured process calibration data used for calibration so that the deviation
of +3% is corrected. A correction value of -3% is used for the nominal value of 50%, i.e. dot gain is
to be reduced by 3% for 50%. Take note that a negative correction value results in greater measure-
ment data and, consequently, to lower values of the calibration curve.
You must enter a correction value of '-3' in the "Modify%" column if the "Correction Values" radio
button is enabled.
You must enter a correction value of '68' in the "Modify%" column if the "Measured Values" radio
button is enabled.
In the latter case, you do not have to calculate the correction value as described above.
• "Import Minispot": Import of the measured data of a minispot from an IT8 file. The modification
values required for correction are computed automatically based on these data and on the pro-
cess values. See also section "Minispot Import", page 98.
List box => "Modification of Calibration Curve"

This function allows you to raise or flatten the curve directly. It is often very difficult to gage the
impact that a modified calibration curve has. For this reason, this edit function is recommended only
for very experienced users.
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Note: Remember that, for technical reasons, there are limits to the modifications you can
make. For that reason, it's important that you compare the modified calibration curve with
the original curve. This is best done by displaying the calibration curve and its values.

Process Calibration
List box => "Correction of Gray Balance"

This correction function is available only for calibration data records with CMYK and a separate cal-
ibration. (A separate calibration means that each color has its own calibration curve, see also the
section "Overview of Averaging Data Curves", page 44.)
A correct dot gain does not necessarily produce an optimal gray in the overprint of CMY (see also the
section "Diagram => Spread as displayed in a graph", page 50.)
The gray balance correction that you can use in this function enables gray to be optimized based on
the gray minispot.
The aim is:
• The dot gains in all the CMY curves continue to be within the tolerance range (see the section
"Diagram => Tolerance as displayed in a graph", page 51).
• The dot gains of CMY are balanced in their ratio to one another so that an optimal gray results.
Gray balance minispots are placed on the press sheet for gray balance correction. These gray minis-
pots are evaluated with the Profile Tool in the Prinect Color Toolbox. The result is an IT8 file with gray
balance correction data.
The "Correction of Gray Balance" function enables this IT8 file to be imported. The gray balance is
then corrected in the Calibration Manager. In this process, existing calibration curves are replaced by
curves that lead to a correct gray balance.
"Compare with Data Record" Option + List Box (Expert Mode)

• "Compare with Data Record" option: Tick this to enable this function.
The table also displays a "Comparison%" column if the function is enabled. The "Compari-
son%" column shows the values of the comparison curve together with the differential values
(in parentheses) in relation to the data curve or calibration curve. In addition, when you click
the radio button, the curve of the comparison data record is orange in the graphic editor to tell
it apart.
• "Compare with Data Record" list box: Select a data record for comparison from this list.
The "Select Group..." item in the list box lets you select a different calibration group that has
data records you can then select for the comparison. This allows you to compare data records
of different groups.
58 Version 2016
Process Calibration
Special case: Calibration data records for ink jet

printing
Calibration data records for ink jet devices are different to those for offset printing (see also section
"Calibration for Ink Jet Printing", page 34).
To create a calibration data record for ink jet printing

2. Select the calibration group you want and open it. For ink jet printers, you will work with "Inkjet"
calibration groups.
3. Click "New".
Beside "Multilevel" type in the number of different drop sizes that will be included in calibration.
Open calibration data record for ink jet printing

The "Calibration" tab is the same as what you normally view in an open calibration data record for
offset printing.
Calibration data records for ink jet printing are set up in addition in the following three tabs:
"Drop Encoding" tab

A value that defines grayscale in the output file is entered for each drop size in the "Step column. The
number of drop sizes or steps and the encoding are machine-specific and must be determined in each
case. Normally, 8-bit encoding is used. The smallest drop size has the smallest value, the biggest drop
size the largest value.
The "Ink-specific drop encoding" option lets you encode different drop sizes for each color.
"Multilevel Configuration" tab

This is where the distribution of the drop sizes to the various input tonal values is defined for multi-
level screens. The parameter values required are selected automatically based on the ink jet device
used. Manual selection of the values is usually not necessary and should be done, when required,
solely by a technician of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG.
Graphic: You can set the input tonal value between 0% and 100% using the slider. The dynamic bar
graph shows you how often each of the available drop sizes is used for each tonal value.
For example, "0" means a frequency of "0". This means that this drop size is not used with the
selected tonal value. "100" means that the drop size is used to the maximum.

Process Calibration
"Ink Limit" tab

Total area coverage of the printing material with the largest drop of a color often results in a large
amount of ink in the solid tint. Ink limit reduces this ink volume.
The value for ink limit of a color defines the maximum screen value for this color. For example, if 80%
is set for the ink limit, a screen value of 80% is then created for an input tonal value of 100%, in
other words for solid tint. The input tonal values shown (0 thru 100) are linear on the restricted range
(0 thru 80).
You should select the value for ink limit so that in printing a solid area is produced on the printing
material for the maximum screen value. In this example, a screen value of 80% would still result in
full ink coverage of the printing material and no holes would be seen.
60 Version 2016
Administration
4 Administration
"Administration > Process Curve Sets"

A process curve set contains a quantity of process curves, also known as target curves.
The process curves define the desired dot gains of specific colors. In other words, they describe the
target of calibration.
There are:
• Predefined process curve sets: these are supplied by Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG and can-
not be changed.
• User-defined process curve sets: you can create these yourself. To do this, click "New" to create
a new one and open it to edit it then (see the section "Open and Edit Process Curve Sets", page
63).
"Name" column in table

The name of a predefined process curve set always starts with "HD". If the name starts with
"HD ISO", then the process curve set is based on the ISO 12647-2 standard.
"Status" column in table
There are two status variants:
• predefined by HD
• user-defined
You can filter the view of predefined process curve sets (see "Configuration > Predefined Data").
"Status of Master Data" column in table (only with MDS)
Process curve sets are managed in the local calibration database. Generally, the process curve sets
are synchronized automatically between the local and central master database if a master data
server (MDS) is used (see "Configuration > Master Data Server").
• "identical" status: Synchronization successful; local and central data are identical.
• "not identical" status: Synchronization is not automatic; local and central data are not identical.
In this case, the "Update Master Data" button is enabled.
• "unknown": Synchronization not possible because the master data server is not ready.
Automatic synchronization is not possible if the process curve set is used in a calibration data record.
In this case, you must trigger synchronization manually, for example, by:
• Deletion of the calibration data record. Automatic synchronization resumes after that.
• "Update Master Data" button. This allows you to replace the process curve set in the central
master data database by the one from the local calibration database and, in this way, to force
synchronization. (Caution: Can lead to inconsistencies with other systems that are presently
using this process curve set from the MDS).
Description of the Button Bar

• "Update Master Data": see above.

Administration
• "Open": Shows the process curves of a process curve set. The curves display as "ready only" and
cannot be changed if the process curve set is predefined or is used in a calibration data record.
• "New" / "Copy": The name of a new or copied user-defined process curve set may not contain
the following characters: \, /, :, *, ?, “, <, > |.
• "Delete": You can delete the process curve set only if it is not used in a calibration data record
or a process standard (defined in Color Toolbox).
• "Export": Export of the process curve set from the local database to the file system. A space in
the name changes to an underscore ("_"). File extension: ".pcs" (process curve set).
• "Import": Import of the process curve set from the file system to the local database. File exten-
sion see above. It is also possible to import older data records with the extension ".pst" ("pro-
cess standard").
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Administration
Open and Edit Process Curve Sets

Editing of process curves is:
• possible for user-defined curves
• not possible for predefined curves and user-defined curves that are used in a calibration data
record.
1. To open a process curve set: Click

"Administration > Process Curve Sets" > select a process curve set > "Open" button.
The table shows the process curves that are in the process curve set.
2. To create process curves: First of all, define the color(s) for the new process curve.
• "Process colors": Select the combination of process colors you want from the list.
• "Spot color": Type in the name of the spot color or look for the spot color in a color table. Click
"Create".
• "Any (other) Spotcolor": Click "Create".
Alternatively, you can copy an existing process curve. To do this, select the source process curve
in the table and click "Copy".
3. To open and edit a process curve: Select the process curve in the table and click "Open".
You can define the values of the process curve in the dialog that then opens. An open process
curve basically looks like an open calibration data record (section "Calibration Data Record:
Show and Modify Measured Data (Process Calibration)", page 47).
For your faster orientation, you will find a link below for each group in this dialog that will lead you
to a description of how to use these parameters.
• "Dot Gain" option: section "Diagram => "Dot Gain" Option: Notes on Dot Gain", page 48.
• "Nominal Values" group: section ""Curve Modification" group", page 39.
• "Density" group: section ""Density" Group => Editing Density Values", page 52.
• "Curve Modification", "Tolerances" group: section ""Curve Modification" group", page 56 and
section "Diagram => Tolerance as displayed in a graph", page 51.
• "Smooth": section ""Smooth" Button => Notes on Smoothing", page 53.
• "Measure": chapter "All about Measuring".
• "Import": section "Import of Measured Data", page 92.

Administration
Multi Process Curve Sets

For an explanation of terms relating to process value and process curves, see page 33.
What benefits do multi process curve sets have?

The following requirements are met through the use of multi process curve sets:
• Reduction of the number of OPPs or ImpositionOutput sequences. The process curve set used
for a job can be selected automatically based on the type of printing material (coated, uncoa-
ted). Under certain conditions, it is not necessary for you to define an OPP or ImpositionOutput
sequence specifically for each type of printing material.
• A mix of AM and FM screen systems in one job as part of object-specific screening is easier. Usu-
ally, different process curves are required for AM and FM screens (see visual dot loss). The use
of multi process curve sets makes it possible for a process curve set to be selected automatically
on the basis of the object-specific screen that is presently in use.
Problem of visual dot loss: In practice, you often cannot use the same process curves for (coarse) AM
and (fine) FM screens. Even if the dot gains in an AM and FM screen are the same, the visual impres-
sion in the screens is still different due to the different frequency.
Taking the same dot gains in both an AM and FM screen, the visual impression that the objects in the
FM screen make is unsatisfactory and poor in contrast. For that reason, higher target curves are often
used in the field for FM screens. In other words, dot gain is increased in the midtone.
Problem: Visual dot loss
AM screen FM screen
13% dot gain 13% dot gain
Perception: OK Perception: not ok
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Administration
What Is a multi process curve set?

Process curve set
Properties like type of printing material or screen system are not explicitly assigned to a process curve
set. Nevertheless, process curves are created taking into account certain properties of a printing pro-
cess and in this respect can be grouped based on these properties. In a normal process curve set,
these properties are usually seen in its name, for example, the name of the process curve set contains
a type of printing material.
Multi process curve set
A multi process curve set encompasses one or more rules. Each rule assigns a process curve set to
certain parameters (screen type, screen frequency, type of printing material). A process curve set is
selected in the multi process curve set based on the rule. In other words, a multi process curve set is
a number of process curve sets to which properties are assigned explicitly (and not just through their
names).
These properties , that is, parameters, in a rule are:
• The type of screen system: You can select whether the process curve set will be used for all AM
screen systems or for all FM screen systems or for each screen system.
• The frequency or dot size: You can specify an exact frequency if you select "AM screen systems".
You can specify an exact dot size if you select "FM screen systems".
• The type of printing material: You can select whether the process curve set will be used for a
specific printing material or every printing material.
A multi process curve set is first of all created like a container. Afterwards, you add rules that assign
available process curve sets to the parameters named above. Each rule creates an entry in the multi
process curve set.
The name of a multi process curve set is freely selectable, except for the fact that it is automatically
prefixed with "MP:". All the process curves sets in a multi process curve set are referenced by
this one name!
Below you will find diagrams with examples of two multi process curve sets. The concrete example
for multi process curve set 2 shows a rule each for the different material types "HD ISO Papers 1+2
(coated)" and "HD ISO Papers 4+5 (uncoated)". By applying the rule, the matching process curve sets
for coated and uncoated printing materials will be assigned to the different types of printing material.

Administration
Both process curve sets can be referenced through the name of multi process curve set 2.
Multi process curve set 1, general
Rule 1
• Screen system_1 Process curve set_1
• Frequency/dot size
• Type of printing material_1
Rule 2
• Screen system_2 Process curve set_2
• Frequency/dot size
• Type of printing material_2
Multi process curve set 2, concrete example for HD ISO 60
Rule 1
• "Any Screen System" Process curve set
"HD ISO 60 Papers
• (frequency/dot size dimmed)
1+2 positive"
• "HD ISO Papers 1+2 (coated)"
Rule 2
"HD ISO 60 Papers
4+5 positive"
• "HD ISO Papers 4+5 (uncoated)"
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Multi process curve sets in calibration data records

When you create a new calibration data record, the list box for process curve sets also displays any
available multi process curve sets. See also the section "Create a New Calibration Data Record
(Process Calibration)", page 42. If you require a multi process curve set for a calibration data record,
select it from this list box.
You can select the same multi process curve set for different calibration data records. All the process
curve sets in it can be referenced through its name when you are editing the job (provided that the
same multi process curve set is selected in the OPP or the ImpositionOutput sequence; see also the
section "Multi process curve set in the OPP or in the ImpositionOutput sequence", page 68).
Example: In one calibration data record, you set "HD ISO Papers 1+2 (coated)" as your printing mate-
rial and in another "HD ISO Papers 4+5 (uncoated)". You can select the same predefined multi pro-
cess curve set "HD ISO 60" for both calibration data records.
In the first calibration data record, process curve set "HD ISO 60 Papers 1+2" is used for calibration.
Accordingly, in the second calibration data record, process curve set "HD ISO 60 Papers 4+5" is used.
The diagram below illustrates this example:

Administration
Calibration Data Record 1 Calibration Data Record 2

with HD ISO Papers 1+2 (coated) with HD ISO Papers 4+5 (uncoa-
ted)
Selection
Multi process curve set HD ISO 60
Rule 1
"HD ISO 60 Papers
1+2 positive"
• "HD ISO Papers 1+2 (coated)"
Rule 2
"HD ISO 60 Papers
4+5 positive"
• "HD ISO Papers 4+5 (uncoated)"
Selection
Calibration Data Record 1 Calibration Data Record 2
• HD ISO Papers 1+2 (coated) • HD ISO Papers 4+5 (uncoated)
• HD ISO 60 (-> HD ISO 60 Papers • HD ISO 60 (-> HD ISO 60
1+2) Papers 4+5)
Multi process curve set in the OPP or in the ImpositionOutput sequence

How do you select multi process curve sets for calibration in Prinect MetaDimension or in the Prinect
Cockpit?
1. Open the OPP or the ImpositionOutput sequence.
2. Select the calibration rule "Match, Else Error".
After that, any existing multi process curve sets are also available for selection of a process curve set.
By using multi process curve sets, you can see to it when editing a job that the proper process curve
set is used automatically based on the screen, frequency/dot size and type of printing material.
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"Administration > Print Parameters"

Print parameters describe the properties of a printing process after the plate is created. The following
parameters are evaluated:
• Type of printing material
• Press
• Ink series
The print parameters are managed in the Calibration Manager. In other words, this is where they are
created and deleted. They are copied to a master data database (MDS) if there is a link to one.
You can filter the view of the types of printing material (see the section ""Administration >
Configuration"", page 72).
In the Calibration Manager, the print parameters are part of a calibration data record. See the section
"Create a New Calibration Data Record (Process Calibration)", page 42.
You can use the print parameters in Prinect MetaDimension or Prinect Renderer to look for suitable
calibration data records during output of a job. You can set up the press and ink series for this at the
following points:
• Prinect MetaDimension: "Administration > Resources > Output Plan Templates > Process Cali-
bration" in an OPP.
• Prinect Cockpit: "Administration > Templates > ImpositionOutput Template > Calibration".
Type of Printing Material in the Prinect Workflow

The type of printing material is defined implicitly through the material used for a job. You can assign
a type to each printing material in the table of printing materials.
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Note: We recommend that you maintain the table of printing materials.
You can find the table of printing materials as follows:

• Prinect MetaDimension: "Administration > Resources > Printing Materials".
• Prinect Cockpit: "Administration > Printing Materials".
You should always enter the name of the printing material, the ISO paper grade and type of printing
material. If you don't, suitable calibration data records might not be assigned to your job and, in such
a case, processing of the job may stop because calibration is missing.
The type of printing material is focused on when looking for suitable calibration data records for a job
if the calibration rule "Match, Else Error" is used in an OPP (Prinect MetaDimension workflow) or an
ImpositionOutput sequence (Prinect workflow). The type of printing material is obtained from the
printing material used in the job and from assigning the type to the material in the table of printing
materials.

Administration
"Administration > Testforms" (Expert Mode Only)

Test charts (testforms) define a series or list of nominal values and optionally the size of the patch
and gap width for strip readers.
There are:
• Predefined test charts: these are supplied by Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG. You can copy
them but neither change nor delete them.
• User-defined test charts: The following actions are possible with them:
· Create ("New" button)
In the dialog for creating a new test chart, you can enter a number of values separated
by blanks in the box beside "Insert". Click the "Insert" button to add the values to the
table. All the items are deleted and reset to their default values when you click
"Defaults".
· Copy ("Copy" button)
· Delete ("Delete" button)
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"Administration > Colors"

"Create New Color": Create process colors for multicolor printing processes
The process colors in a multicolor printing process, e.g. CMYK, green and orange, will be called mul-
tiple colors below.
You can calibrate multicolor printing processes using multicolor calibration data records that can
contain any number of multiple colors.
Multiple colors are managed in "Administration > Colors".
There are:
• Predefined colors: these are supplied by Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG. You can neither
change nor delete them.
• User-defined colors: The following actions are possible with them:
· Create ("New" button)
· Delete ("Delete" button)
The predefined and user-defined multiple colors are available when you create a multicolor data
record:
3. Click "New" or "Copy".
4. Select "Choose Colors...", the last item in the "Colors" list box.
"Curve Color": Select the curve color for displaying a multiple color
(You can view a graphic of the colors in the open calibration data record, see also section Calibration
Data Record: Show and Modify Measured Data (Process Calibration)).
Some spot colors are hard to detect as a curve color in a diagram or the diagram is not clear if two
colors are very similar. In this case, you can change the color selected using the sliders in "Curve
Color". You can check the set color beside "Result", on the one hand as a color field and on the other
in the curve diagram beside CMYK.

Administration
"Administration > Configuration"

• "User Mode": See chapter "Standard Mode versus Expert Mode".
• "Predefined Data": Filter for the following lists:
· Process curve sets ("Administration > Process Curve Sets")
· Types of printing material ("Administration > Print Parameters > Types of Printing Mate-
rials")
Only the ISO standards and user-defined items display if the box has a tick.
• "Unit": Units of measure (Inch and Metric) for resolution and screen frequency. A change in the
unit of measure will be applied only after a dialog is opened again.
"Dot Gain Display": Display of the Y axis in the graphic editor. A change will be applied only after
a calibration data record or a process curve is opened again.
· "Dynamic Y Axis"
The Y axis is set as required to values of 10%, 20% ... 100%.
· "50%, 100%"
The Y axis is set as required to 50% or 100%.
· "Static Y Axis"
The Y axis is set to 100%.
· Master Data Server (MDS): Shows the master data server that is used or in Calibration
Tool allows configuration of the master data server to be used. The print parameters and
process curve sets are synchronized automatically with the master data database.
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All about Measuring
5 All about Measuring
Basics of Physics in Determining Density Values

The density value is always determined with the following tools:
• with a densitometer with "real", that is physical, color filters for red, green and blue and with a
visual filter.
• with a spectrophotometer. In this case, the characteristic of the color filters is described numer-
ically. The density value is calculated from the measured spectra using numeric filter curves.
The density value is a dimension for the absorption of light (certain wavelength ranges) by a color.
The actual dot percentage is computed from the density value.
Determination of the Density Value with a Densitometer

The density values are measured in this case with "real", that is physical, color filters for red, green
and blue or with a visual filter.
Achromatic colors like black are measured with the visual filter. Chromatic colors like CMY are mea-
sured with the color filter of the color that is absorbed the most.
See the diagram below for an example:
A yellow area absorbs blue light in most cases, red and green are mainly reflected. The more blue is
absorbed, that means the less blue is reflected, the greater the density value for yellow. Blue reflec-
tion is measured with a blue filter that is transparent only for blue.
Based on this, the following applies for cyan, magenta and yellow:
• Cyan: blue + green reflected / red absorbed
=> measure with the red filter
• Magenta: blue + red reflected / green absorbed => measure with the green filter
• Yellow: red + green reflected / blue absorbed

=> measure with the blue filter

All about Measuring
Simplified view: Reflection/absorption for yellow

WHITE LIGHT
red green blue
Reflection Reflection Absorption
Yellow area
The following is valid for all chromatic colors, in other words CMY, and also chromatic spot colors:
measure using the color filter that determines the maximum density values.
The diagram below shows the spectrum of a yellow hue. The blue filter curve lies in the range in
which yellow has the greatest absorption (least intensity). Consequently, yellow is measured with this
filter.
Schematic diagram of the RGB filter curves (no real filter curves!)
Intensity
Spectral curve of yellow
Wavelength
Blue filter Green Red filter
filter
Range below the filter curve. The intensity of light of each wave-
length can be measured in this frequency and intensity range (e.g.
blue light in the case of the blue filter).
Reflected color (in this example, for blue). The values in this area are
summed up and logarithmized. The result is the density value.
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Nature of the color filter => density status / polarization filter

The curves for the RGB color filters (see above) can be different. In other words, the frequency range
in which, for example, the blue filter is transparent for blue light and the intensity values vary.
The density status defines the shape of the color filter curve. The density status states how the den-
sity value is derived from the measured light. This is based on ISO standard 5-3.
A density value that was determined only provides you with information if its density status is known
and also if a polarization filter was used when measuring the data.
This means that the information about the density status and polarization filter must also be con-
veyed along with the density value.
Use neutral basis

The following is valid for all colors:
The density of paper white is subtracted from the measured solid density. Paper white is not to be an
influencing factor when determining the density values of the colors.
Determination of the Density Value with a Spectrophotometer

The color filters are described numerically in the case of a spectrophotometer. This allows the density
value to be determined purely arithmetically from the spectrum of a color.
Determination of the Spectral Density with a Spectrophoto-

meter
When you determine the spectral density using a spectrophotometer, the wavelength at which a color
has maximum absorption relative to paper white is determined. The intensity of the reflected light is
measured for this wavelength, its ratio to the intensity of paper white set and logarithmized. The
result is the density value.
Schematic diagram: Spectral density of a yellow color
Intensity
Spectrum of paper white
Spectrum of yellow (solid)

Absorbed light
Reflected light
Wavelength
Wavelength with maximum absorption

All about Measuring
Colorimeters
• Linearization for film
Colorimeter = transmission densitometer
The transmission densitometer measures the geometric dot percentage without optical dot gain.
This measuring method is precise enough for films because they hardly feature any optical dot
gain. Take, for example, an input tonal value of 40% in the PDF, 40% of the surface would be
then black on a positive film for a linearized output.
Note: Measure with the emulsion side facing up so that it is very close to the densitometer light
source.
• Linearization for plate
Colorimeter = CCD camera as a dotmeter
The CCD camera takes a photo of the printing plate. The number of black pixels can be deter-
mined based on the photo. This calculates how much printing area there will be. For an input
tonal value of 40% in the PDF, 40% of the plate would be printing for a linearized output.
• Process calibration for the printing materials
· Colorimeter = reflection densitometersection "Determination of the Density Value with a

Densitometer", page 73
· Colorimeter = Spectrophotometer for spot colors whose absorptions cannot be charac-

terized adequately by measuring with RGB filters and for that reason their spectral den-
sities will be determined. See the section "Determination of the Spectral Density with a
Spectrophotometer", page 75.
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All about Measuring
Supported Colorimeters
The following colorimeters (measuring devices) are supported by the Calibration Manager and are
available in a list box as follows:
"Process Calibration"/"Linearization" >
Open the calibration group >
Open the calibration data record >
Click "Measure" > "Type" list box.
Select your device from this list box before you start to measure.
• Process calibration
Strip readers:
X-Rite DTP32/DTP32HS
X-Rite QuickCal
X-Rite DTP41
X-Rite DTP41 USB
X-Rite DTP45 (USB)
GretagMacbeth EyeOne (scan), (USB)
Hand-held instruments:
GretagMacbeth D19C/D196
GretagMacbeth EyeOne (USB)
GretagMacbeth SpectroEye
GretagMacbeth Spectrolino
GretagMacbeth SPM
Techkon R410/R410e
Techkon SP8x0
X-Rite 520/528
X-Rite 530
• Linearization
GretagMecbeth iCPlate
GretagMecbeth iCPlate II
X-RiteDot/CCDot
Measuring spot colors:

The "Basis of Density Values" option displays in the Measure dialog if you are going to measure a spot
color. This is where you can select the color filter that will be used to measure the spot color or the
spectral density if you are going to measure using a spectrophotometer.

All about Measuring
Connecting a Measuring Device

See also the documentation accompanying your colorimeter.
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Note: Make sure to select a port not already used for communication with an output device.
Serial Ports
Both USB and RS232 (V24) ports support connection of a measuring device.
• There are two standard USB ports (standard A and B). The shape of the connectors tells you
which standard you have:
Standard -A -B
• RS232 (V24) ports (also known as COM ports) are the ports on the back of your computer for
connection of a measuring device. By default, a PC has two serial ports:
COM 1 refers to port 1.

COM 2 refers to port 2.
serial port serial port

25-pin 9-pin
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All about Measuring
Extender cards
If the port you need (COM or USB) is already seized, an extender card could be used for the installa-
tion of further ports.
You can connect measuring devices with a USB port as of version 2.3 of the Calibration Manager. To
be able to use measuring devices with a USB port, you must install the appropriate driver software.
Install your USB measuring device as follows:
1. Connect your USB measuring device that is running to the USB port of your computer.
2. Allow your computer to detect the new hardware.
3. Install the driver:
• When you are working with Prinect MetaDimension:
After Prinect MetaDimension is installed, the device drivers are located in:
MetaDimension installation directory\MetaDimension\CTS\USB Driver Measurement Devices
• When you are working with Calibration Tool:
The device drivers are generally located on a CD included in the device shipment. You will also
find the device drivers on the installation CD of Calibration Tool in the USB_Drivers folder.
After a successful installation of the drivers, you can use your measuring device with the Calibration
Manager.

All about Measuring
Examples of Measuring Data with Strip Readers
X-Rite QuickCal
Make sure that your X-Rite densitometer is properly installed, see section "Connecting a Measuring
Device", page 78.
1. Go to an open calibration data record ("Process Calibration" menu > open the calibration group
> open the calibration data record).
2. Click "Measure". The following user interface opens:
3. List box beside "Type": Select "X-Rite QuickCal" from this list.
4. QuickCal supports only density status "T". List box beside "Status": Select "T" from this box.
5. Calibrate the device before making the first measurement. To do this, click "Calibrate Device".
If the error message below pops up, you either selected the wrong type of device or did not con-
nect the measuring device correctly:
If it doesn't display, the calibration process will start.
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All about Measuring
6. After a few seconds you will be requested to scan the calibration strip:
7. The following message displays if calibration completes without problems:
Click "OK".
8. You can now start measuring the original.

Click "Start Measurement".
9. Measure the data by passing the device over the patches of the selected color steadily without
a break. If measurement is faulty, the following message displays:
Click "OK" and then "Start Measurement" again.
10. A beep in the device indicates that the data were read in without an error.
Click "Read Measured Values".
This will download the values from the measuring device to the Calibration Manager and the
results table. The "Accept" and "Reject" buttons are also enabled, and the relevant curve dis-
plays:

All about Measuring
11. Click "Accept" to accept the values.

12. Click "Close" after measuring is finished. This returns you to the open calibration data record,
displaying the data curve.
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All about Measuring
Densitometer X-Rite DTP41

Prerequisite: If X-Rite DTP 41 and DTP 32 strip readers are used, the test strips should have
leading and tailing white paper strips:
Length of leading strip min. 4.5 cm, length of tailing strip min. 2.5 cm.
Make sure that your X-Rite densitometer is properly installed, see section "Connecting a Measuring
Device", page 78.
3. List box beside "Type": Select "X-Rite DTP41" from this box.
4. List box beside "Status": This is where you can select the density status you want for measuring
the data.
If the error message below pops up you either selected the wrong type of device or did not or
incorrectly attach the measurement device.

All about Measuring
6. After a few seconds you will be requested to insert the test strip:
7. There may be something wrong if the following message pops up:
Check that you pushed in the test strip far enough for the transport mechanism to pick it up. You
may wish to give it a little extra push when the motor starts the second time.
Click "OK".
9. Define the size of the test area in "Test Form (Strip Definition)" before you start measuring the
original.
10. You can now start measuring the original. Click "Start Measurement".
11. If the message below displays, you did not specify any data for the test strip in "Testform (Strip
Definition)". Please do so now.
12. If the message below displays, you did not specify any data for the gap width in "Testform (Strip
Definition)". Please do so now.
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All about Measuring
13. The following request pops up when you have supplied the system with the two size settings:
14. If the following message is displayed:
there is a problem with the actual strip. Ensure that the patch size and gap width settings match
the actual strip. The density values must decrease monotonously. (That is to say, on a curve
sloping towards the right, the next value must be lower than the previous one.)
If the system was able to scan the strip properly, the values will be transferred from the measur-
ing device to the Calibration Manager and added to the results table. The appropriate curve will
be shown:
Click "Accept" to accept the values or "Reject".

(15).A prompt that you must confirm will appear if you switch to another color without having clicked
"Accept" first.
Click "Yes" to avoid the values getting lost:

All about Measuring
(16).Select the next color in "Selection of Color and Curve" or select the next curve if you wish to
compute a mean plot of several curves of a color.
17. Click "Close" when you have scanned the last color strip. This returns you to the open calibra-
tion data record, displaying the data curve.
18. Click "OK" to write all previously saved data to the database.
Click "Yes" in the alert message. This returns you to the open calibration group ("Process Cali-
bration" menu > open the calibration group) with the list of calibration data records.
19. Enable the calibration data record by clicking the green triangle. The light on the left turns green
to indicate that the record can now be used for calibration.
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Example of Measuring Data with Hand-held Instru-

ments
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Note: You must calibrate GretagMacbeth EyeOne before you start measuring.
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Note: Techkon R410/R410e are operated via a unidirectional connection to the application.
In other words, messages or commands are not checked for implementation or feasibility.
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Note: GretagMacbeth SpectroEye has a built-in polarization filter that you can enable/dis-
able with the "Polfilter" list box as required.
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Note: Calibration of the Techkon R410/R410e and Gretag Macbeth D19C/D196 cannot be
done with the Calibration Manager. Follow the calibration instructions in the respective
manuals of the manufacturers.
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Note: The CCDot dotmeter automatically switches to the energy-saving mode (in this case,
the display doesn't show anything) and is then not detected by the Calibration Manager. To
make the device operational again, press the measuring button.
X-Rite 528 is used in this documentation to explain the measuring procedure.

All about Measuring
Measuring Data with an X-Rite 528 Densitometer

3. List box beside "Type": Select "X-Rite 520/528" from this box.
4. List box beside "Status": This is where you can select the density status you want for measuring
the data.
If the error message below pops up, you either selected the wrong type of device or did not con-
nect the measuring device correctly:
6. After a few seconds you will be requested to place the measurement device on the the calibra-
tion target:
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7. There may be some measuring problems if the following message pops up:
Repeat calibration of the device.
Click "OK".
9. You can now start measuring the original. Click "Start Measurement".
Now follow the instructions to measure the patches in your original:
• "Please measure paper white (0%)."

• "Measure the solid tint (100% cyan)".
• ...
• "Measure the 100% patch of cyan".
10. After the last measurement (100% patch), end measurement by clicking "Accept":

All about Measuring
(11). If you wish to create a curve for another color or curve, select the next color or curve in "Selec-
tion of Color and Curve" and measure the data in the way already described.
12. Click "Close" to end the measuring procedure. This returns you to the open calibration data
record, displaying the data curve.
13. Click "OK" to write all previously saved data to the database.
14. Click "Yes" in the alert message.
This returns you to the open calibration group ("Process Calibration" menu > open the calibra-
tion group) with the list of calibration data records.
15. Enable the calibration data record by clicking the green triangle. The light on the left turns green
to indicate that the record can now be used for calibration.
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Import / Export
6 Import / Export
Import / Export of Calibration Groups and Data

Records
Calibration groups and data records that have the same name are not overwritten during import but
must be renamed.
A) Calibration groups:
Calibration groups are saved to *.cgr files.
2. Select the calibration group you want.
3. Click "Export" or "Import".
B) Calibration data records:

Calibration data records are saved to *.cdr files.
4. Click "Export" or "Import".

Import / Export
Import of Measured Data

Some terms to start off with:
• chromatic colors: colors that are measured either with one of the RGB filters or in a spectral
scan.
• achromatic colors: colors in blacks and grays that are measured with a visual filter.
• visual filter: This filter simulates approximately the way the human eye perceives lightness and
is used for determining the density value of blacks and grays.
The following types of color data files can be imported:

• IT8 files: Format for color data files.
• CPC24 Image Control color data files: Import feature for older systems with Prinect Image Con-
trol.
• Color data files for Delta or Harmony systems.
Before you import files, you must decide on the type of color data file and, if applicable, on how the
data will be imported. You will find a description of what types of file are available for IT8 files and
how to select them in the procedures described below.
The menus that display for the import of color data vary, depending on the colors that are in your cal-
ibration data record:
• Only process colors
• Multiple colors
• Only one spot color
For that reason, you will find an overview of the menu prompt in these three cases below. This is fol-
lowed by an example of how to proceed in each of these cases.
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Import / Export
Menu prompt for import of color data for IT8 files

Process colors Multicolor Spot color
"Please Select a Source for Import" dialog

(type of color data file = IT8 file)
• Filters RGB • Filters RGB visual, • Filters RGB
all colors • Filter visual
• Filters RGB visual, • Spectral
selected color
• Spectral: xxx nm
• Filter visual (achro-
matic), • Spectral: nm select-
selected color able:
• Spectral: Minispots
"Select IT8 File for Import" dialog

This is where you select the color data file you want to import.
Selected color / All col- If nm selectable:

ors? dialog
Import for all colors or for
"Please Select a Wave-
selected color? length" dialog
"Choose a Color" dialog

Assigns color names in the case of spot colors

Import / Export
Procedure: Import for Process Colors for IT8 Files

Your calibration data record has process colors only.
1. Click "Process Calibration" > open the calibration group > open the calibration data record >
"Import".
2. The "Please Select a Source for Import" dialog displays. This is where you decide on the type of
color data file that you will select later for import.
Selection of type:
• "IT8 File with Measurement Data (.txt file)"
This is the usual case. The color data file contains density values that were determined with red,
green or blue filters and the visual filter.
Select the type of color data file you want (in this case, an IT8 file) and confirm your selection
with "OK".
3. The "Select IT8 File for Import" dialog displays. Select your color data file in this dialog and con-
firm with "Open".
4. Query:
Option a) "Selected Color": Only the measured data of the color presently selected are imported.
Option b) "All Colors": Measured data are imported for all the colors in the data record.
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Import / Export
Procedure: Import for Spot Color for IT8 Files

Your calibration data record has only one spot color.
"Import".
color data file that you will select later for import and on how the data will be imported.
Selection of type:
• "IT8 File with Measurement Data (.txt file), spot colors: filter (red, green, blue) with maximal
density"
The density values for the (chromatic) spot color are determined with the RGB filter that provides
the maximum density.
• "IT8 File with Measurement Data (.txt-file), Spot colors: visual filter"
The density values for the (achromatic) spot color are determined with the visual filter.
• "IT8 File with Measurement Data (.txt file), Spectral density at wavelength with maximum
absorption"
You should select this type if you wish to measure the spectral density but do not know the
wavelength with the maximum density. In other words, you are measuring the color for the first
time. After the import, the wavelength with maximum absorption is known and displays in the
info box especially for repeat measurements.
i
i
Note: When you measure the spectral density of a color or import spectral density values,
you should always use the same wavelength for repeat measurements or for a re-import of
color data. The reason for this is that the wavelength defined with maximum absorption is
the set reference point that enables you to compare your results.
• "IT8 File with Measurement Data (.txt file), Spectral density at wavelength xxx nm"
This type is suitable for repeat measurements. The wavelength xxx nm displays automatically in
the list box because you made this wavelength known to the system as follows:
a) You already imported spectral density values at this wavelength and the wavelength was
entered into the Info box.
b) You already measured spectral density values, for example, with a hand-held instrument and
know the wavelength with maximum absorption. You entered the wavelength value manually
into the Info box with "Info > Select Wavelength".

Import / Export
• "IT8 File with Measurement Data (.txt file), Spectral density at selectable wavelength"
Selection of this type lets you define a wavelength for which you would like to import spectral
densities. After import, this wavelength is entered automatically into the Info box.
• Import of minispot data: The items you can select for minispot data are by analogy exactly like
those items described above. Select the type of color data file you want and how the data will
be imported and confirm your selection with "OK".
firm with "Open".
4. The "Please Select a Wavelength" dialog displays if it is possible to select the wavelength. In this
dialog, select your wavelength with maximum absorption and click "OK".
5. The "Choose a Color" dialog displays.
The names for spot colors that are used in the IT8 file do not necessarily match the color names
from your job or the color names that you use in the data record. For that reason, you may have
to assign color names in this dialog.
The "Choose a Color" dialog shows you the color names that are found in the IT8 file. In this
dialog, you must now select the color whose measured data will be imported for the spot color.
6. Click "OK". Import starts.
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Import / Export
Procedure: Import for Multiple Colors

Your calibration data record has a number of multiple colors.
"Import".
color data file that you will select later for import and on how the data will be imported.
Selection of type:
• "IT8 file with Measurement Data,

filter (red, green, blue) with maximal density
visual filter for Black (all colors)"
Measured data are imported for all the colors in the data record.
The density values for each color (except black) are determined with the RGB filter that provides
the maximum solid density. The visual filter designed for blacks and grays is used for black.
• "IT8 File with Measurement Data, filter (red, green, blue) with maximal density, visual filter for
Black (selected color)"
Measured data are imported only for the currently selected color. The rest is similar to above.
• "IT8 File with Measurement Data, visual filter for non-CMYK colors (selected color)"
The density values for all colors except CMYK are determined with the visual filter designed for
blacks and grays. This means that the color selected for this import should be achromatic.
Select the type of color data file you want and how the data will be imported and confirm your
selection with "OK".
firm with "Open".
4. The "Choose a Color" dialog may appear if import is to be for non-CMYK colors.
The names for colors that are used in the IT8 file do not necessarily match the color names from
your job or the color names that you use in the data record. For that reason, you must assign
color names in this dialog.
The "Choose a Color" dialog shows you the color names that are found in the IT8 file. For each
color in your data record, you must select the matching color from the IT8 file whose measured
data will be imported.
5. Click "OK". Import starts.

Import / Export
Minispot Import
There are effectively two cases of minispot import:
• Case 1: You import the minispot file like a normal color data file. See the procedures described
above.
• Case 2: The actual purpose of minispots is to be able to correct a deviation in a process. In other
words, you wish to modify your data curves (see also the section ""Curve Modification" group",
page 56).
We will deal with case 2 below.

This is where the minispot is imported:
1. Click "Process Calibration" > open the calibration group > open the calibration data record.
2. "Curve Modification" group:
Select "Correction of Process Deviation" and tick the option. Only then is the "Import Minispot"
button enabled.
The menus that display for the import of a minispot vary somewhat, depending on the colors that are
in your calibration data record:
• Only process colors
• Multiple colors
• Only one spot color
For that reason, you will find an overview of the menu prompt in these three cases below. This is fol-
lowed by two examples of how to proceed (for process colors and multiple colors).
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Import / Export
Menu prompt during minispot import

Process colors Multicolor Spot color
Dialog: Selection of basis of density values
• Filters RGB (chro- • Filters RGB (chro-

matic) matic)
• Visual filter (achro- • Visual filter (achro-
matic) matic)
• Spectral density
"Select IT8 File for Import" dialog

This is where you select the color data file you want to import.
Dialog: Selected color / All colors?

Import for all colors or for selected color?
"Choose a Color" dialog

Assigns color names in the case of spot colors
Window: Display/confirmation of the import measured data.

Import / Export
Procedure: Minispot import for process colors

2. "Curve Modification" group: Select "Correction of Process Deviation" and tick the option. The
"Import Minispot" button is now enabled.
3. Click "Import Minispot".
4. A browser dialog displays. Select your IT8 file with the minispot measured data in this dialog
and click "Open".
5. You will see the following query:
6.
• Option a): You click "Selected Color".
The data of the minispot display for the selected color.
"OK" => The data of the minispot or the correction values calculated from them are copied to
the modify column.
"Modify" => This lets you change the original measured data. New measured data are generated
for all the nominal values based on the measured data of the minispot and used.
• Option b): You click "All Colors".
The data of the minispot and the correction values display for all the colors.
"Yes" => New measured data are generated and used if you confirm this query.
i
i
Note: Minispots can contain different nominal values.
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Import / Export
Procedure: Minispot import for multiple colors

2. "Curve Modification" group: Select "Correction of Process Deviation" and tick the option. The
"Import Minispot" button is now enabled.
3. Click "Import Minispot".
4. In the dialog below, you decide right away whether you would like to import minispot measured
data for chromatic (RGB filter) or for achromatic (visual filter) colors.
5. A browser dialog displays. Select your IT8 file with the minispot measured data in this dialog and
click "Open".
6. You will see a query that can be as follows, for example:
• Option a): You click "Selected Color".
If the minispot does not have any measured data for the selected color, you must first assign a
color as described in the example in item 7. The data of the minispot then display for the
selected color.
"OK" => The data of the minispot or the correction values calculated from them are copied to
the modify column. At this point you can still undo the modification by deselecting "Correction
of Process Deviation".
"Modify" => This lets you change the original measured data. New measured data are generated
for all the nominal values based on the measured data of the minispot and used.

Import / Export
• Option b): You click "All Colors".
If the minispot does not have measured data for all of the selected colors, you must first assign
colors as described in the example in item 7. The data of the minispot and the correction values
then display for all the colors.
"Yes" => The correction is run for all the colors if you confirm this query and new measured data
are generated and used.
7. You must assign a color if calibration is for a color for which the minispot does not have any
measured data. In the example above, you see that the spot color "Orange" is defined in the cal-
ibration data record but not in the IT8 color data file.
For that reason, you must select one of the colors defined in the IT8 file that will be assigned to
"Orange":
8. Check the corrected measured values for all the colors in the "Measure%" column.
Click "Cancel" if you wish to discard the import. If you do this, the current calibration data
record closes without any changes and you go to the open calibration group with all its calibra-
tion data records. If you want a new import, you must open your calibration data record again
and repeat the steps described here.
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Import / Export
Export of Measured Data

1. Click "Process Calibration" > open the calibration group > select the calibration data record >
"Export". The bottom two items in the list box deal with the export of measured data:
• "IT8 File with Mean Measured Values (.txt file)"
The measured data are exported as a text file. The measured data are exported as dot percent-
ages and not as density values.
• "IT8 File with all Curve Data (.txt file)"
The measured data and all the values of the calibration curve are exported as a text file.
You can use this export to send the calibration information to the Color Toolbox. The Color Tool-
box can use the calibration curve in particular to convert the measured data of a test chart for
generation of a profile. The effect of calibration is simulated in this process. This makes profile
generation based on an uncalibrated proof of a test chart possible. (See the Color Toolbox doc-
umentation for more details.)

Standard Mode versus Expert Mode
7 Standard Mode versus Expert Mode
Why Are There Two Modes?

You have full access to both modes that can be selected as follows:
"Administration > Configuration > User Mode".
Compared to the Expert Mode, the parameters and functions in the Standard Mode were reduced to
the basics to make operation simpler and easy-to-follow especially for beginners.
The concept is designed for you to become familiar with the Calibration Manager in the Standard
Mode and then to switch over to the Expert Mode, if required. We do not recommend switching con-
tinually between the two modes.

Differences
PC = Process Calibration, L = Linearization
Where? Standard Mode Expert Mode

Fault prevention: You cannot assign a dif- You can assign a different device subse-
ferent device subsequently to a calibration quently to a calibration group.
group.
Calibration"
In "Process
Only PC: "Screening": Reduced to dot Only PC: "Screening": Parameters not
shape, resolution and polarity. reduced.
In "Process Calibration"/"Linearization" > open the
calibration group > "New" (create a new calibration
Only PC: "Medium": dimmed. (set to "All" Only PC: "Medium": can be selected.
in setup)
• One data curve per color => no averag- • "Calibration Data Record Properties":
ing Several data curves per color with aver-
• No test chart aging.
• Test chart selectable.
data record)
See section "Create a New Calibration Data

Record (Process Calibration)", page 42.
No adaptive curve initialization. Includes adaptive curve initialization. See
section "Linearization: "Curve
Initialization" Group", page 38.
Only L: Angle-related linearization: not pos- Only L: Angle-related linearization: possible
sible. for CMYK.
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Fault prevention: Calibration cannot be All functions can always be used.
enabled if data series is incomplete.
In "Process Calibration" > open a calibration
"Copy", "Export" and "Print" then are also

disabled.
"Copy": Copy calibration data record. You "Copy": Copy calibration data record. If the
cannot overwrite the original. name of the copy and original are identical,
you can overwrite the original with the
copy that you may have modified.
"Range of Selected Calibration Data "Range of Selected Calibration Data
group
Record": Not available. Record": Function described in section

"Extend Scope of an Existing Calibration
Data Record (Process Calibration)", page
46.
Parameters: Reduced to dot shape, resolu- Parameters: not reduced.
tion, polarity and medium.
"Curve Modification": "Curve Modification":

• "Correction of Process Deviation" man- • "Modification of Measurement Values"
ual (no minispot import) • "Correction of Process Deviation" with
minispot import
In "Process Calibration" > open a calibration
• Modification of calibration curve

group > open a calibration data record
• Gray balance correction

"Smooth": "Smooth":
Spline method. After data record opens, Numerous smoothing methods, see section
once per color. ""Smooth" Button => Notes on
Smoothing", page 53.
No test charts. "Testform", "Set Testform": Test charts for
setting nominal values can be selected.
No comparison "Compare with Data Record": Comparison
of calibration data records possible (also of
different groups).
Tolerance is not displayed. Tolerance is displayed.
See section "Diagram => Tolerance as
displayed in a graph", page 51.
Spread is not displayed. Spread is displayed.
See section "Diagram => Spread as
displayed in a graph", page 50.


No test charts. "Testforms" tab.
nistration"
In "Admi-
See section ""Administration > Testforms"

(Expert Mode Only)", page 70.
Compatibility
Both user modes are compatible.
• Case 1: Both calibration group and calibration data records were created in the Expert Mode.
· You can open the calibration group in the Standard Mode.
· All the parameters display, where applicable as read-only if they cannot be edited.
· Creation of new calibration data records is subject to the restrictions of the Standard
Mode.
• Case 2: Both calibration group and calibration data records were created in the Standard Mode.
· You can open the calibration group in the Expert Mode.
· Missing parameters are indicated by "-".
· Groups of missing parameters: set to "All".
· "Polarity": set to "any".
· Ranges in the data records from the Standard Mode are read-only.
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Calibration Tool
8 Calibration Tool
Calibration Tool and the Output Workflows

Calibration Tool as part of the Prinect Color Toolbox is a separate software for creation and manage-
ment of calibration data.
It facilitates central administration of calibration data for output devices of the Prinect server (Prinect
Renderer) and of Prinect MetaDimension.
In this case, the calibration data are not filed in the local calibration databases of the Prinect server
or Prinect MetaDimension but in the database of Calibration Tool. These centrally organized calibra-
tion data are then distributed to the various output systems. Calibration Tool receives information
about the existing output devices through access to "Device Contexts".
In addition to centralized administration, another advantage of Calibration Tool is that it is possible
to run measuring and imaging operations in separate places.
Example of Architecture
The schematic diagram below shows Calibration Tool as the central calibration server for two Prinect
MetaDimensions and one Prinect server.
MetaDimension 1 MetaDimension 2 Prinect Server

+ Calibration Manager + Calibration Manager + Calibration Manager
with local calibration with local calibration with local calibration
data data data
Central calibration data

Device context 2
Device context 3
Device context 1
Calibration Tool as the central calibration server
+ central calibration database

Calibration Tool
Calibration Tool: Creation of Central Calibration Data
Device context
The term "device context" encompasses the device data of one or more devices or the access to the
device data.
The device data of the existing output devices (imagesetters, TIFF-B devices) are available to an inte-
grated Calibration Manager of Prinect MetaDimension or a Prinect server. With Calibration Tool this
is initially not the case.
You must select a device context before you can create calibration data with Calibration Tool. This
means that you connect to Prinect MetaDimension / the Prinect server and make the device data
available to Calibration Tool through this connection. Alternatively, you can also import a device con-
text from an ipr file (imagesetter profile file).
You can create and edit calibrations for the output devices of the device context while this context is
selected.
By selecting device contexts, you can create calibrations in Calibration Tool for all devices of all out-
put workflows. These calibrations are then available in the central calibration database.
You can select a device context in Calibration Tool in "Administration > Device Context" as described
below.
Description of the "Device Context" tab

1. Go to "Administration > Device Context".
2. Select the device context you want:
• Prinect MetaDimension:
"Select MetaDimension Server from List of Automatically Detected Servers" option.
Servers downstream of routers / gateways are not detected automatically.
• Prinect MetaDimension:
"Select MetaDimension Server by Name or by IP Address" option.
• Prinect server:
"Select Prepress Manager Server by Name or by IP Address" option.
• IPR file (recorder profile file):
"Read Device Context from IPR File (Imagesetter Profile File)" option.
You can load the device data for a certain device with the help of the IPR file.
110 Version 2016

Calibration Tool
3. Make the device data accessible:

• Prinect MetaDimension / Prinect server:
Click "Connect".
There is now a connection to the relevant server.
• IPR file: Click "Open". The IPR file is loaded.
The "Info" and "Synchronize Database" options are enabled if you selected a Prinect MetaDi-
mension or a Prinect server as the device context.
4. "Info": Shows the setup of the database and the synchronization method on the Calibration
Manager as well as the time of the last synchronization.
5. "Synchronize Database": This lets you trigger remote synchronization of the central calibration
database (see below).
Calibration Manager: Calibration Databases and Synchroniza-

tion
Each Prinect MetaDimension and each Prinect server has a local calibration database. This is where
administration of the calibration data created locally in the respective Calibration Managers is done
and the data are made available to the RIPs for calibration.
Furthermore, each Prinect MetaDimension and each Prinect server is capable of accessing the central
calibration database of a Calibration Tool. In this case, the central calibration data are available as
read-only files to the Calibration Managers of Prinect MetaDimension / Prinect server for calibration
of jobs.
In the Calibration Manager of Prinect MetaDimension / Prinect server, an option helps you decide
whether you would like to work with local or central calibration data.
Synchronization of the central calibration database, that is, transfer of the central calibration data-
base of Calibration Tool to Prinect MetaDimension / Prinect server is automatic and time-controlled
or manual. Remote synchronization is also possible from Calibration Tool if Calibration Tool is con-
nected to a Prinect MetaDimension / Prinect server through the device context setting.
Description of the "Database" tab

In the "Administration > Database" tab of the Calibration Manager of Prinect MetaDimension / the
Prinect server, you set up the database you want and how synchronization will be.
You see this tab only after the relevant license file is installed successfully:
• For Prinect MetaDimension: section "Create the license file for Prinect MetaDimension", page
113.
• For the Prinect server: section "Create the license file on the Prinect server", page 115.

Calibration Tool
Handling the databases

• "Use Local Database" option: You work solely with local calibration data and have no access to
the central calibration data.
• "Central Calibration Server": If you wish to work with the central calibration data, you must
enter the name of the central calibration server in this box (computer name on which Calibration
Tool is running).
• "Use Central Database" option: You work solely with central calibration data that are read-only
and have no access to the local calibration data.
• "Use Central Database for Process Calibration, Local Database for Linearization" option:
This is a mix: You have solely full access to local calibration data for linearization. You have
solely read-only access to central calibration data for process calibration.
Synchronization
Synchronization is the copying of central calibration data to the Prinect MetaDimension server or Pri-
nect server.
There are two methods of synchronization:
• "Automatic": Synchronization is automatic, running at the period you set (in the list box below
this option).
• "Manual": Synchronization is manual. This means that you click "Synchronize Database" when-
ever you want to synchronize.
112 Version 2016

Calibration Tool
Requirements for Accessing the Central Calibra-

tion Database
Create License File

A license file must be installed in order for the "Administration > Database" tab to display in the Cali-
bration Manager. This tab is where you can configure a read-only access to the central calibration
data.
Create the license file for Prinect MetaDimension

Installation of the license file from the Prinect installation stick:
1. Plug the stick into an available USB port.
2. Double-click "SetupPrinect.exe".
3. Click "Prinect 2016 Color Tools" in the dialog that opens.
4. Click "Prinect Calibration Tool 2016" in the dialog that opens.
5. Click "Install Prinect Calibration Tool 2016" in the dialog that opens.
The dialog below displays:
6. Select the option as shown above and click "OK". The system will tell you if installation was suc-
cessful.

Calibration Tool
7. Restart the Prinect MetaDimension system. The "Administration > Database" tab is available
after the restart.
Installation of the license file through a utility:
1. Go to the installation directory:
"installation drive\MetaDimension\CTS\CentralCalibrationDatabaseLicense"
2. Double-click the setup program:

"InstallCentralCalibrationDatabaseLicence.exe"
The system will tell you if installation was successful.
3. Restart the Prinect MetaDimension system.

4. The "Administration > Database" tab is available after the restart.
114 Version 2016

Calibration Tool
Create the license file on the Prinect server

A license file must be installed in order for the "Administration > Database" tab to display in the Cali-
bration Manager. This tab is where you can configure a read-only access to the central calibration
data.
1. Go to the installation directory:
"installation drive\Program Files (x86)\Heidelberg\
Calibration\CalibrationServer\Bin\
CentralCalibrationDatabaseLicense"
2. Double-click the setup program:

"InstallCentralCalibrationDatabaseLicence.exe"
The system will tell you if installation was successful.
3. Restart the system:

• Restart the Prinect system.
The "Administration > Database" tab is available after the restart.

Calibration Tool
Requirements for User Accounts

Background information:
The central calibration database works on the basis of file transfer through the network. For this pur-
pose, a network share named CQMExport is set up on the workstation on which the Prinect Calibra-
tion Tool is installed. The central calibration database is filed as a TAR archive on this share.
The Prinect output systems need read permissions to this share in order to access this file. Four
requirements must be met in order for a Prinect output system to have read permissions for the
share:
• The MetaDimension Service or Calibration Service must run under a user account.
In other words, it may not use the system account.
• The user account that the MetaDimension Service or Calibration Service uses must be on the
workstation of the Prinect Calibration Tool and be part of the Users group. User name and pass-
word must be the same.
• The CQMExport network share must be set that all users have read permissions. This is done by
the Installer of the Prinect Calibration Tool.
• The NTFS permissions for the CQMExport folder must be set so that all users in the "Users"
group have read permissions. Because the CQMExport folder is created below the "All Users"
folder, this requirement is generally met because of the permissions assigned by default by Win-
dows for the "All Users" folder.
Problems can result from the fact that the MetaDimension Service or Calibration Service doesn't use
a normal user account or that this account is not known on the workstation of the Prinect Calibration
Tool.
Technical note: The MetaDimension Service or Calibration Service doesn't access the central calibra-
tion database directly. This is done by the calibration server of a Prinect output system. The permis-
sions of the MetaDimension Service or Calibration Service are critical because the calibration server
is started as part of this service.
Recommended procedure:
During installation of the Prinect output system, you will be asked for a user account that the Meta-
Dimension Service or Calibration Service will use.
Select "This account" as the account and enter the user name and password of an existing account,
e.g. prinect/prinect.
If the Prinect output system is already installed, you can subsequently assign a user account to the
MetaDimension Service or Calibration Service that it will use for operation.
On the workstation on which the Prinect Calibration Tool will be or is already installed, create a user
who is identical to the user used by the MetaDimension Service or Calibration Service. Add this user
to the "Users" group.
In our example it is: User: prinect, Password: prinect
The prinect user is added to the "Users" group.
As a result, the MetaDimension Service or Calibration Service has the required read permissions for
access to the central calibration database of the Prinect Calibration Tool.
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Calibration Tool
Calibration Server Control

The calibration server must always be running in order to use the calibration software. See also
section "Structure and Launch of the Calibration Software", page 26.
The calibration server of Calibration Tool generally starts automatically when a user logs in. However,
it's also possible to start and stop the calibration server manually using the "Calibration Server Con-
trol" application.
Start Calibration Server Control as follows:
"Start > All Programs > Heidelberg Prinect > Color Toolbox > Calibration Server Control".
Different user interfaces can display depending on the licensing method you used:
User interface 1 User interface 2
Start calibration server
Stop calibration server
"Modify" Modify the License Server

Calibration Tool
Save and Restore the Calibration Database

You can save the calibration database and your user data to a directory of your choice. We recom-
mend that you create a backup after you modify calibration data.
1. Start the process:
• To save the database: Click
"Start > All Programs > Heidelberg Prinect > Color Toolbox > Save Calibration Database".
• To restore the database: Click
"Start > All Programs > Heidelberg Prinect > Color Toolbox > Restore Calibration Database".
2. Follow the instructions of the Wizard.

(3). The following warning is issued in the Calibration Manager if the Calibration Manager of Calibra-
tion Tool was open during the backup of the calibration database:
During the data backup or recovery, the calibration server is stopped and restarted if it was running.
When the calibration server restarts, click "Connect" to create a link to the calibration server.
A link to the Prinect output system selected in the "Device Context" is created automatically. An imag-
esetter profile file is read in again if it was selected as the device context.
118 Version 2016

Index
Index
A Angles 35 IPR file 111

Archive medium 31 Iterative calibration 45
Averaging of data curves 44 Iterative linearization 38
C Calibration data record 19, 30 L Linearization 16, 35

Calibration group 19, 30
Calibration principle 15 M Measured value 33
Calibration Server Control 117 Measuring devices 76
Category 30 Modify calibration curve 57
CCD camera 76 Multi process curve sets 64
Central calibration data 110, 113 Multiple colors 71
COM port 78
Compare data records 58 N Nominal value 33
Correct gray balance 58
Correct process deviation 57 O Optical dot gain 12, 14
Create license file 113
Create new calibration data record 42 P Polarization filter 75, 87
Create new calibration group 41 Print parameters 69
Curve Initialization 38 Process calibration 16
Process curve 33
D Data curve 32 Process Curve Sets 61
Densitometer 73 Process value 33
Densitometer - hand-held instrument Process-related dot gain 12
X-Rite 528 88
Density status 32, 75 R Reflection densitometer 76
Density value 32 Remote capability of the Calibration Mana-
Determination of the density value 73 ger 27
Device 28 Rules in the multi process curve set 65
Device context 110
Device Type 28 S Save/restore the calibration database 118
Dot gain 11, 48 Serial ports 78
Dot percentage 32 Smooth 53
Dotmeter 76 Spectral density 75
Spectrophotometers 75
E Edit density values 52 Spread 50
Edit measured data 56 Standard mode 106
Edit nominal values 51 Start Calibration Managers 26
Expert mode 106 Structure of calibration data 19
Export of measured data 103 Synchronization 111
Extender cards 79
T Test chart 70
F Filter curves 74 Test page output 38
Tolerance 51
H Handle databases 112 Tonal value 34
Transmission densitometer 76
I Import for multiple colors 97
Import for spot colors 95 U USB 78
Import of calibration data records 91 Use neutral basis 75
Import of calibration groups 91 User accounts 116
Import of Measured Data 92
Import of minispots 98 W Wavelength with maximum absorption 75

Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG
Kurfuersten-Anlage 52–60
69115 Heidelberg
Germany
Phone +49 6221 92-00
Fax +49 6221 92-6999
www.heidelberg.com
Trademarks
Heidelberg, the Heidelberg logotype, Prinect, Suprasetter and Speedmaster are registered trademarks
of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG in the United States and other countries.
Adobe and PostScript and Acrobat are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Adobe Systems In-
corporated in the United States and/or other countries.
PANTONE and Hexachrome are registered trademarks of Pantone Inc.
All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.
Subject to technical modifications and other changes.

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Prinect Signa Station 1

Before you start ...

Structure of this Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Dot Gain in Tone Reproduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Calibration Manager / Calibration Tool – User’s Guide 3

Terms Relating to Dot Gain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Linearization: "Angles" Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Linearization: "Curve Initialization" Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Calibration Data Record: Show and Modify Measured Data (Linearization) . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Create a New Calibration Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Create a New Calibration Data Record (Process Calibration) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

"Smooth" Button => Notes on Smoothing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

"Curve Modification" group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

"Compare with Data Record" Option + List Box (Expert Mode) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Open and Edit Process Curve Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

5 All about Measuring

Determination of the Density Value with a Densitometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Calibration Manager / Calibration Tool – User’s Guide 5

Import of Measured Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

7 Standard Mode versus Expert Mode

Example of Architecture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Create License File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

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About This Documentation

Structure of this Documentation

What you should already know

• Prinect Integration Manager S

• Prinect Prepress Manager S

• Prinect Image Control

Calibration Manager / Calibration Tool – User’s Guide 9

Symbols and Styles

Example: Set the switch to "off".

• Menus, functions and sub-functions are separated by “>”.

Example: Select "File > Open...".

Example: Press Alt+A.

Theoretical Basics of Calibration

Dot Gain in Tone Reproduction

Film for plate

Calibration Manager / Calibration Tool – User’s Guide 11

What Causes Dot Gain?

See section "Process-related dot gain", page 12.

Process-related dot gain

• at the printing process on the printing machine

Example of tonal value modifications

1. not calibrated: desired value: 65%

Imagesetter & Devel- Copy Print

Imagesetter & Devel- Copy Print

Calibration Manager / Calibration Tool – User’s Guide 13

Optical dot gain

Actual dot percentage

Dot Dot profile

Light absorbed by dot on paper or plate

Principle of Calibration Based on Process Calibra-

This curve portrays the desired, i.e. ideal printing process.

• When you have a curve with actual values or a data curve:

How Calibration Manager computes the calibration curve (CtP only)

Process curve Data curve Calibration curve

Output tonal value

Input tonal value Input tonal value Input tonal value

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