GMG SpotColor Editor Quick Start Guide

Imprint

• Documentation and products may change without notice.
• GMG GmbH & Co. KG is not liable for any damages from the use of the software or documentation.
• Trademarks include PANTONE, Microsoft, X-Rite, HP, Epson, Adobe, Canon.
• Last updated on 15.07.2014 for GMG software version 5.6.

1. Getting Started

1.1 Welcome

• GMG SpotColor Editor is integrated into GMG ColorProof, FlexoProof, and DotProof.
• It allows editing or creating spot color sets for color management.
• Spot color sets are associated with a spot color database (*.db3).
• Example: The PANTONE GOE coated set for Epson printers includes all spot colors.
• Applications include creating custom libraries, extending proofing color space, and using calibrated sets for stable print outputs.

Setting up a Spot Color

• Define target values in Lab or measure from a reference print.
• Compute CMYK output values based on printer-medium combination.
• Optimize by printing and measuring a test chart, adjusting profiles as needed.

Tip

• Use GMG ProofControl Inline for automatic spot color optimization with integrated measuring devices.

1.2 What's New?

• New features include mixing special inks for a wider range of colors.
• Added transparency for target printer-medium results.
• Compatible with global standards using different Color Difference Formulas.
• Paper tint neutral spot colors for packaging simulation.
• Cosmetic changes in user interface; functionality remains unchanged.

1.3 Renamed Software Options

• Various options have been renamed for clarity and better organization.

1.4 File Formats

• Spot color database (*.db3): Contains Lab target values for proofing.
• Spot color gradation (*.sfg): Assigned to spots or jobs to define dot gain behavior.
• Gamut/Full Gamut file (*.csc): Describes the printer's color space.

1.5 Best Practices (ContoneProof / DotProof)

• Best simulations achieved by using a CMYK profile with a database.
• For tints, add fulcrums or use gradation corrections as needed.

2. Creating Custom Spot Colors

2.1 New Spot Color Database

• Create a spot color set in GMG SpotColor Editor.
• Steps include opening database, renaming, adding new spot colors.
• Calibrated Spot Colors: Avoid MX4/MX5 transformation to maintain color space integrity.

2.1.1 Calibrated Spot Colors

• Use printer calibration to maintain stable output while optimizing target values.
• How to: Enable MX3 printer calibration and manage spot colors.

2.1.2 Paper Tint Neutral Spot Colors

• Simulate different paper tints by subtracting paper tint from spot color profiles.

2.2 Creating a New Spot Color

• Enter characterization data for fulcrums, optimize profiles iteratively.

2.3 Simulating Spot Color Tints

• Use fulcrums or gradation corrections to account for dot gain.
• Create separate gradation files for ContoneProof and DotProof.

2.3.1 Creating A Gradation Correction

• Affects CMYK output values or dot size depending on proofing mode.

2.3.2 Applying a Gradation Correction

• Link gradation corrections to spot colors in databases or workflows.

2.4 Optimizing the Spot Color

• Optimize by printing, measuring, recalculating profiles iteratively.

3. Special Ink Spot Colors

• Special inks require defining spot color channels.
• Mix custom spot colors using special ink settings for effects like Metallic Silver.

4. Reusing Spot Colors on Different Printers

• Ensure visual consistency by recalculating CMYK values using original target values.
• Steps include estimating target values and setting up new databases for different printers.