Spot Color Calculation
Spectral measurement protocols determine the tone value of a spot colour ink by comparing the spectral reflectance of a tint to the solid ink and the substrate. Using sctv provides a linear representation of colour changes that aligns with human visual perception. This method replaces older density calculations that often failed to predict the appearance of light screens accurately.
Tone Value Linearization
This method calculates the distance between the unprinted paper and the solid ink in a colour space to find the exact midpoint for a fifty percent tint. Accurate spot colour tone value measurements ensure that light tints of a dark spot colour do not appear too dark or lose their hue. Brand owners rely on these calculations when using screened versions of their corporate colours on packaging.
Pressroom Consistency Goal
Implementing these measurements allows printers to calibrate their presses more accurately for custom ink formulations. sctv provides a reliable way to communicate colour requirements between designers and printers across different regions. It helps ensure that a spot colour tint looks the same whether it is printed on a glossy coated sheet or a rougher uncoated board. By using a standard that focuses on visual lightness, the entire supply chain can avoid the costly errors associated with incorrect ink densities or unexpected colour shifts during the production of large orders.