CTP for Four-Color
For today's publishers and printers, CTP offers the promise of lowering costs while improving quality. Yet to achieve the best results, careful planning and communication between the publisher and printer are essential.
To be sure, effective integration of prepress and production processes can provide significant benefits in streamlining workflows and reducing costs. Related technologies such as DI and POD also can provide efficient solutions for short- and micro-run jobs. In combination, new ways of putting words and images on paper are changing the landscape of publishing.
Author/Publisher Danny O. Snow has been widely quoted about new publishing technologies by major news media. He also is co-author of U-Publish.com, a book about new technologies for self-publishers, written in collaboration with Dan Poynter. More information is available at the Web site: www.u-publish.com
And Speaking of Color ...
Harlequin introduced ScriptProof, a new ScriptWorks edition RIP that generates color-accurate digital proofs from low-cost inkjet printers. The new RIP includes a Java-based graphical user interface and simplified color management capabilities. LAN users can gain full control over how their jobs are printed on a single proofing device, according to Harlequin officials. ScriptProof's color accuracy results from using the same file for proofing as for final output to imagesetter or platesetter. www.harlequin.com
Pantone recently designated Kodak Approval XP/XP4 systems with Recipe Color software as Pantone Calibrated. The designation allows Approval XP/XP4 customers to reproduce more than 1,000 industry-standard Pantone Matching Systems colors, noted Kodak officials. Recipe Color allows spot colors to be produced using process donors. The resulting spot colors are not tint builds; rather, the ink color is actually created within the system. And the technology demonstrates the dot structure of the printed piece on the proof, allowing customers to check color breaks prior to plating. www.kpgraphics.com
Graphic Arts Technical Foundation (GATF), Sewickley, Pa., released a revised edition of The GATF Practical Guide to Color Management (256 pgs.), a guide to integrating color management into a production workflow. Topics covered include basic color theory, traditional closed-loop color reproduction, calibration, and characterizing scanners, monitors and pritners. There's an updated review of hardware, profiles of color management software and much more. Cost: $75 ($55 for GATF members). Call (800) 662-3916, or www.gain.net.
