GMG FlexoProof/DotProof: Creating an MX5 DotProof Profile

General Information

• Company: GMG Color GmbH & Co. KG, Tuebingen, Germany
• Documentation Version: Last updated on 17.07.2014
• Software Version: GMG ColorProof 5.6
• Trademarks and Acknowledgements:
  • GMG and associated logos are trademarks of GMG Color GmbH & Co. KG.
  • PANTONE, Microsoft, X-Rite, HP, Epson, Nexus, Adobe, and Canon are respective trademarks of their owners.

1. Getting Started

1.1 About this Tutorial

• Learn to create an MX5 DotProof profile.
• Requires a gamut file (*.csc) for printer calibration.
• Custom printer calibrations can be created if no calibration set exists.
• Ensure the printer is running optimally before starting.*

1.2 Profile Building Blocks

• GMG ProfileEditor used to build profiles with specific calibration files or test chart types.
• Different printer types and drivers require different modes and calibration formats (MX4, MX5).

1.3 What You Need from Your Printing Company

• Obtain necessary files: test charts, compensation curves, and test images.
• Use test charts like Flexo V2 or ECI2002.

1.4 Test Chart Types

• GMG provides test charts for supported printers and devices.
• Use Random test charts to minimize measurement errors.

2. Creating an MX5 DotProof Profile Checklist

2.1 Changing the Print Medium

• Update the print medium in GMG ColorProof to match the printer's loaded medium.

2.2 Starting a New MX5 Profile

• Create a new profile in GMG ProfileEditor.
• Select printer type and gamut file.
• Choose measurement device and test chart.

2.3 Defining Basic Profile Settings

• Check and adjust Measurement Settings.
• Enter profile information and save.

2.4 Advanced Simulation Features

• Paper Simulation: Simulate visible patterns of print material.
• Register Shifting: Simulate register offsets by shifting separations.

2.5 Compensation Curve from RIP

• Import and apply compensation curves from RIP for accurate color values.

2.6 Measurements and Calculations

Defining Target Values

• Import or measure Lab values to meet CMYK printing conditions.

Calculating CMYK Output Values

• Compute output values from target values using the gamut file.

Determining Current Values

• Print and measure test charts to iteratively adjust profiles until Delta E values are within tolerance.

2.7 Visual Optimization

• Conduct visual tests and apply corrections for color shifts, printable dots, and color values.
• Correct paper tint and perform selective color correction as needed.

Additional Tips

• Regularly check and update all settings and measurements.
• Maintain printer calibration and ensure accurate profile creation.
• Use iterative processes to refine and optimize profiles.

References

• Consult GMG tutorials for additional support on custom media and MX4 profiles.