Digital proofing systems used in colour management the determination of choice criterion in monitor images

The effective use of electronics and computers in printing has created highautomation within this sector. The ability to prepare and directly obtain plateoutputs of original items in a computerised environment has quickened theprinting system, reduced human labour and has increased the production rateby reducing cost. Before, colour proofs were obtained either by film or by pre-prints produced directly in printing machines. Nowadays this method is notused because it is expensive and because the production of film no longer takesplace. In the present situation, since the preparation for printing is done directlyin digital format, proofs are obtained via digital printers while the colourmanagement system and digital proofs imitate the print. The basis of the colourmanagement system used in this process is created by ICC (International ColorConsortium) profiles. ICC profiles are file formats that show the amount of thecolour system that can be created or perceived by a device. By using the ICCprofiles of the printing and digital proofing device, the RIP?s (Raster ImageProcessor) of the digital proof (programme used to obtain film with dot area orplates from pixel images) make the required transformations and show theoperator how the colours it has prepared will turn out. However correct theICC profiles may be, the result obtained is real only to that degree. Monitors, byacting as the first output device that interacts with the user, create the basis forthis colour adjustment study. Therefore, its ability to simulate the colourproduction and printing system is important. In this context, the use of LCDs(Liquid Crystal Display) in the printing sector has led to changes in monitorcalibration processes. The aim of this study; to determine the digital proofingsystems and the characteristics of the monitors, job flow procedures andcalibration methods that will be used in colour management so as to assist userswith their device choices.