Manual - PARTXPRES have chosen to purchase a TECHKON Color Densitometer R 410/e. With this manual we want to present you an easy entry into use of your measuring device

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Manual

Color densitometer

R 410 and R 410e

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TECHKON Manual Welcome

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Welcome

TECHKON manuals, technical documentation and programs arecopyrighted. Reproduction, translation or transfer to an electronic medium- in whole or in parts - is prohibited.

Accompanying TECHKON software is the intellectual property ofTECHKON GmbH. Purchase of the software grants the user a license foruse on only one computer. Programs can only be copied for back-uppurposes. TECHKON can not be held liable for any damages that mayoccur through use of the software.

The TECHKON team used great care in producing this manual.Nevertheless, we cannot fully exclude mistakes. TECHKON GmbH andthe authors cannot be held liable for any possibly incorrect statements northeir consequences.

Products named that are not made by TECHKON are mentioned forinformation purposes exclusively and such statements do not representtrademark infringement. All registered trademarks are recognized.

Visit us at: http://www.techkon.com

Version 1.0 - 1998

Welcome

Welcome to the circle of TECHKON users. We are glad thatyou have chosen to purchase a TECHKON ColorDensitometer R 410/e. With this manual we want to presentyou an easy entry into use of your measuring device.

Do you have suggestions for improvements or do you needinformation that goes beyond this manual? We would beglad to hear from you because your suggestions orquestions are an important contribution to the continuousoptimization of our manuals.

Here’s how you can reach us:

TECHKON GmbHWiesbadener Str. 27D-61462 Königstein

Tel: ++49 - (0)6174 - 92 44 50Fax: ++49 - (0)6174 - 92 44 99http://www.techkon.come-mail: [email protected]

Packing list

• Color densitometer R 410/e with

• Charger with A/C adapter

• Manual

- Brief review

- Calibration chart

- Registration card

• Case for device

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About this manual

Product description

The color densitometer R 410/e has diverse applicationsranging from quality assurance in the proof and print sectorto computer-to-plate to calibration of color copiers.

TECHKON color densitometers are marked by theirexceptionally simple handling. The high measurementspeed and the possibility of transferring measurement datadirectly to a computer (PC, Mac) are importantcharacteristics, especially in production where the timefactor plays a great role. Equally important is highmeasurement precision. Only this combination ensuresreliable quality control.

All TECHKON measurement devices boast thesecharacteristics.

The color densitometers R 410 and R 410e provide thefollowing measurement data at this standard of quality:

• Density and density difference• Gray and color balance• Dot percentage and dot gain• Print contrast• Print plate measurement

- to Yule-Nielsen with determination of n-factor

The color densitometer R 410e offers the following additio-nal functions:

• Trapping• Color tone error (hue)• Grayness

Both devices feature a data cable port for communicationwith a PC. More on this topic in Chapter 5 - PC andSoftware -.

About this manual

If the expressions mentioned are partially new to you, justlook them up in the glossary or in the correspondingchapter. There you will find detailed explanations.

If you are starting operation of the TECHKON colordensitometer for the first time, we recommend starting withChapter 1 - Set-Up - .

For experienced users who want a quick introduction intooperation, we have developed an overview card. You willfind it in the cover.

Detailed, subject-related description of operation begins inChapter 2 - Densitometric Measurements - .

You should have yourself registered in any case. Only thisway are we able to inform you of current updates.The registration card is located as the last page in thismanual and can be removed.

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Table of contents

Table of contents

Welcome .................................................................. 3Packing list ............................................................. 3Product description ................................................. 4About this manual ................................................... 5

1 Set-up .................................................................. 9Safety tips ............................................................... 9Setting up the measurement device ..................... 10Turning the measurement device on and off ......... 11Charging the measurement device ....................... 12

2 Densitometric measurements ......................... 13Calibration on paper white .................................... 14Density measurements - D1-mode ....................... 15Measuring gray balance - D2-mode...................... 16Measuring color balance - D2-mode ..................... 17Measuring dot percentage - %1-mode ................. 18

Saving solid density in %1-mode ..................... 20Dot percentage according to Yule-Nielsen ....... 21

Measuring dot gain - %2-mode............................. 22Saving solid density in %2-mode ..................... 25

Measuring print contrast - %2-mode..................... 26Deleting all measurement values .......................... 26

3 SELECT-mode ................................................... 27Special functions of the R 410e model ................. 29

Measuring trapping 1 (according to Preucil) .... 29Measuring trapping 2 (according to Ritz) ......... 32Measuring color tone error (hue) ..................... 33Measuring grayness ........................................ 34

Entering screen-percentage-values (%-REF) ....... 36Entering density-reference-values (DEN-REF) ..... 38Entering white-reference-values (CAL-REF)......... 39Entering the Yule-Nielsen faktor n ......................... 41

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1

Set-up

Basic calibration of the densitometer (SLOPE) ..... 44Entering calibration chart values ..................... 45Measuring calibration chart values .................. 46

Data transfer (SEND-mode) ................................. 47Selection of language ........................................... 48

4 Care and Maintenance ..................................... 49Calibration chart ................................................... 50Reset function ...................................................... 50Troubleshooting .................................................... 50

5 PC and Software ............................................... 52TECHKON EXChange .......................................... 52TECHKON QS Pro ............................................... 53

6 Technical Data .................................................. 54

Glossary ................................................................. 55

Manufacturer´s certificate .................................... 61

Registration card

Overview card

Set-up

This chapter includes:

• Safety tips• Set-up of measurement device• Charging the measurement device• Turning the measurement device on and off

Safety tips

Please pay attention to the following safety tips:

• Verify that the A/C current available corresponds to thetype of current on the decal of the A/C adapter.

• Make sure no powder or dust accumulates in the lowerarea of the measurement channel.

• Prevent liquid or vapors from penetrating the device.• Handle the supplied calibration chart with care and

choose a dark, dust-free and room- temperature placefor storage.

• Use only original TECHKON accessories (chargingconsole, data cable, Mac adapter).

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Setting up the measurement device

The device is operated by four function keys and a start key.The green key starts measurements, the remaining fourfunction keys call up select measurement functions.

The menu functions are split into two operational levels,measurement mode and select mode.

The individual functions for measurement mode areexplained in Chapter 2 - Densitometric measurements - .The functions for select mode are explained inChapter 3 - Select mode - .

Measurement mode is the default mode at start-up.

The patented construction principle of the measurementhead assures exact positioning on the measurementpatches of the print control strip. Positioning is kept undercontrol even during measurement. This permits reliablemeasurements of even extremely thin measurementpatches.

Set-up

connection portfor data cablel

measurement head

function keys

display

start button

charge contacts

reset key

serial number

Turning the measurement device on and off

Turning on: Depress the green start button on thereverse side of the device.

Turning off: The device shuts off automatically after fiveminutes if it is not operated during this time.

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Charging the measurement device

If the available A/C current corresponds to the current onthe A/C adapter decal, then:

• Plug the A/C adapter into the wall socket.• Put the measurement device onto the charging console.

Both gold contacts on the bottom side of themeasurement device (see Figure Chapter 1 - Set-up ofthe measurement device- ) must fit into both sockets onthe charging console. The direction in which themeasurement device points is irrelevant.

• Charge the R 410/e at least one half hour.

The R 410 and R 410e devices are powered byenvironmentally-friendly and rechargeable NiMH batteries.The charge process is electronically controlled so thatdifferently charged batteries are charged optimally andgently.

It takes 4 hours to fully charge the battery. Full-charge isindicated by C = 100% in the display.With fully charged batteries the device can conduct 10,000measurements.

If the battery charge surpasses a certain threshold level,the LOW-BATTERY signal appears in the display beforeeach measurement. At this point you can carry out another100 reliable measurements. We recommend charging thedevice as soon as the LOW-BATTERY signal appears. Aftercharging for about 30 minutes the device is ready to useagain.

During the charge process the device automatically turnson and remains on until the A/C adapter is removed fromthe current.

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Densitometric measurements


In this chapter you will learn about the followingapplications:

• Calibration on paper white• Density measurements• Gray balance• Color balance• Dot percentage• Dot gain• Print contrast• Deleting indicated measurement values

In measurement mode the individual keys have thefollowing functions:

Selection key for choiceof %1- and %2-mode

Selection key for choiceof D1- and D2-mode

Call-up of SELECT-mode

Delete measurement valuesCalibration on paper white

Data transfer to computer

%1+%2

D1+D2

SELECT

CLEAR+ CAL

SEND

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Density measurements - D1-mode

D1-mode measures the full tone densities of the individualprocess colors.

Measuring density:

1 Select D1-mode with the D1+D2 key .2 Position the device on the measurement patch selected.3 Start measuring with the green start key .

%1+%2 D1+D2 CLEAR+ CALSELECT SEND

D1 B..... C..... M..... Y.....

Density measurement

The measurement value will automatically be linked to theproper process color. The index letter of the color measuredlast will blink. Old measurement values of the remainingprocess colors remain on the display until they aresubstituted by new measurement values or are deleted byCLEAR .

Be advised:

If the density value is smaller than D = 0.04, the deviceautomatically switches from D1-mode to D2-mode sinceautomatic recognition of the measured color is notpossible at low densities.

The D2 sign will blink as an indication of automatic andtemporary selection of D2-mode . Once higher densityvalues are measured, the device automatically returns toD1-mode.

Calibration on paper white

To exclude influences of paper coloring and surface duringevaluation of the printed color layers, the device has to becalibrated to the corresponding paper white.

Calibration on paper white:

1 Position the device on an unprinted spot of the printsheet.

2 Press the CLEAR+CAL key twice (double-click).


CAL B0.00 C0.00M0.00 Y0.00

White calibration

The first click of the key deletes the old measurementvalues. The second click of the key starts calibration.Calibration is confirmed by two signals.

Calibration can be repeated any number of times.

Be advised:

If reference values for a certain standard of white aresaved in the device, these reference values will appear onthe display instead of zero-values (refer to Chapter 3 -Reference values of white - ).


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Measuring gray balance - D2-mode

Layered printing of the process colors cyan, magenta andyellow should result in a neutral gray during colorization to astandardized color scale. Excess of any one color results ina color imbalance.

Using the measured values, gray balance measurementindicates which color is causing a color imbalance.

Measuring gray balance:

1 Select D2-mode with the D1+D2 key .2 Position the device on the gray balance field.3 Start measuring with the green start key .


D2 B 0.80 C 0.79 BL M 0.78 Y 0.80


D2 B 0.80 C 0.73 BL M 0.70 Y 0.87

Gray balance Gray balance with a surplus ofyellow

D2-mode measures all four partial color densities (CMYB)of a single control patch. The partial color densities of theprocess colors and the respective black density appear inthe display after each measurement.

Measuring color balance - D2-mode

Measuring color balance is identical to measuring graybalance.

Color balance indicates divergences of the printed tone froma given color sample. For this measurement, it is importantto consider all partial densities since the color achieved mayconsist of different shares of the basic colors CMYB.


D2 B 0.33 C 0.02BL M 1.16 Y 1.37


D2 B 0.33 C 0.02BL M 1.04 Y 1.37

Example: A “red” printed with the Divergence of magenta (M) on theprocess colors magenta (M) print sample.and yellow (Y) and which servesas a reference sample.

For definition and compliance of tolerance values,divergence can be measured directly as a densitydifference. For this the device needs to be calibrated on areference sample and not on paper white.

Calibration on a reference sample is performed asdescribed in Chapter 2 - Calibration on paper white - .


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Measuring dot percentage - %1-mode

The measurement procedures consists of twomeasurements that are made in sequence. For this a singlecolor’s solid patch and the corresponding screen patch aremeasured. The result is the percentage dot percentage ofthe screen patch.

Dot percentage is calculated according to theMurray-Davis formula and describes effective dotpercentage to DIN standard.

This measurement process is especially pertinent forrecording copier index lines of print plates and of print indexlines for print sheets.

The color of the measurement patches is automaticallyrecognized and displayed.

In measuring on print plates, the very differentiatedcolorization of the print plates is automatically considered.This occurs by selecting the color channel with the highestdensity difference between the exposed and unexposedareas. This results in a high measurement accuracy on allprint plates.

Measuring dot percentage:

1 Select %1-mode with the %1+%2 key .2 In sequence measure the solid density SD and the

screen density DD of a color.


%1 SD ..... DD .....

%1-mode

After measuring, the measured density values and theindex letter for the color will initially appear on the display.

These figures are automatically followed by the measureddot percentage DP in percent.


%1 SD 1.62M DD 0.94


%1 SD 1.62M DP 91%

Density values and index letter Dot percentageof the color

Upon termination of a measurement cycle, a newmeasurement can start immediately. It is not necessary todelete the old measurement.

By displaying the solid density SD, the measurementprocess encompasses density measures in D1-mode andcan thus be used as a universal measurement procedure.

For further information on the topic of dot percentage,request our Application Note 5 .


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Saving solid density in %1-mode

By saving solid density SD, the measurement cycle can berestricted to measurement of screen densities DD whenmeasuring step wedges.

Saving solid density:

1 Measure solid density SD at the start of ameasurement cycle.

2 Press the %1+%2 key until an asterisk (*) appearsadjacent to SD and the color symbol is displayed.


%1 SD* 1.62M DD .....

Saving solid density

The saved value of SD can be deleted with the CLEAR keyor by white calibration .

You can now save a new value of SD or commence newmeasurements without saving.

Be advised:

Only one value of SD can be saved. The saved value ofSD is shown continuously on the display.

Dot percentage according to Yule-Nielsen

The effective dot percentage, which is measured byreflection according to Murray-Davis, consists of twoshares: a geometric share and an optical share. Thegeometric share is the surface relation of screen dots topaper white. The optical share is created through lightdiffusion around the screen dot designated as “light capture”and the irregular coverage of the screen dots.

The Yule-Nielsen factor n determines geometric dotpercentage. This measurement procedure is used, e.g., formeasurements on print plates. For print plates only thegeometric share is of interest since only this share iscolored and printed.

The n-factor is displayed in %1-mode as soon as it isentered and effective. %2-mode always measures withoutn-factor .

For further details refer to Chapter 3 - Entry of Yule-Nielsen factor n - as well as the glossary.

For further information about this topic request ourApplication Note 3.


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Density value solidpatch

Density value screenpatch

Measuring dot gain - %2-mode

Dot gain is one of the most important key numbers in printstandardization. Due to mechanically induced dot gain inprinting, color tones turn darker.Different factors play a role, e.g.:

• The printing color is absorbed by the paper andconsequently dies a surface area larger than thecorresponding screen dot.

• The rubber sheet is soiled and causes dot gain duringtransfer from rubber sheet to the print medium.

The measurement procedure consists of threemeasurements which are effected in sequence.First the solid patch and two screen patches of a color aremeasured. One screen patch is assigned to the range ofdeep tones (80%) and one to the range of medium tones(40%). The screen patches of the print control strip mustcorrespond to the screen-percentage values saved in thedevice.

Measuring dot gain:

1 Select %2-mode with the %1+%2 key .2 In sequence measure solid density SD and the two

screen densities DD (e.g. 80% and 40%) of a color.

The order of measurements is irrelevant.

Screen-percentage values

Index letter for color

Dot gain in % Dot percentage in %

Print contrast

After measuring, the display initially shows the measureddensity values,


%2 80%+40% SD 1.62

DD 0.94 DD 0.38 M

then automatically the values for dot percentage ,dot gain and print contrast .


11/91% 19/59% M %2 80%+40% C 0.42

Upon termination of a measurement cycle, a newmeasurement can commence immediately. It is notnecessary to delete the previous measurement values.


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If your print control strip displays different screen patches,you can adjust the screen-percentage values of the devicein SELECT-mode to the screen patch of your print controlstrip (e.g. to 70% and 30%).The default adjustment of the shipped densitometer is 80%and 40%.

Further details on adjusting the screen-percentagevalues are in Chapter 3 - Entry of screen-percentagevalues - .

For further information on this topic request ourApplication Note 5 .

Saving solid density in %2-mode

Solid density SD can be saved as a reference value. Thispermits faster implementation of comparativemeasurements.

Saving solid density:

1 Measure solid density SD at the start of ameasurement cycle.

2 Press the %1+%2 key until an asterisk (*) appears tothe right of SD.


%2 80%+40% SD* 1.62

DD..... DD..... M

Saving solid density

The saved value of SD can be deleted with the CLEAR keyor by white calibration .

Afterwards a new value of SD can be saved or a newmeasurement without saving function started.

Please be advised:

Only one value of DV can be saved. The saved value ofDV appears in the display during every measurement.

If your print control strip displays different screen patches,you can adjust the screen-percentage values of the devicein SELECT-mode to the screen patch of your print controlstrip (e.g. to 70% and 30%).The default adjustment of the shipped densitometer is 80%and 40%.

Further details on adjusting the screen-percentagevalues are in Chapter 3 - Entry of screen-percentagevalues - .



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1 TRAPPING 1

2 TRAPPING 2

3 HUE

4 GRAYNESS

5 %-REF-VALUES

6 DEN-REF-VALUES

7 CAL-REF-VALUES

8 YULE-NIELSEN

9 SLOPE-VALUES

10 SLOPE-MEASURE

11 TRANSMISSION

12 LANGUAGE

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Special functions ofthe R 410e

SELECT-mode

Measuring print contrast - %2-mode

A print-out should have a maximum of contrast, i.e. the solidsachieve a high color density. The printed screen dots providethe corresponding contrast.An increase in the color density of the individual screen dotsincreases this contrast. When a given limit is surpassed, thescreen dots tend towards fullness and thus the amount ofpaper white - contrast - diminishes.By controlling the screen dots via a measurement of printcontrast, you can achieve an optimum of coloring.

Print contrast is always linked to a measurement of dot gainand dot percentage. Correspondingly measurements of dotgain automatically furnish the related print contrast . Themeasurement process is described on page 21 - Measuringdot gain - .

If you want to measure only print contrast, you need tomeasure the halftone patch of the deep tone area twice inorder to complete the measurement.

For further information on this topic please request ourApplication Note 5 .

Deleting all measurement values

In order to delete all measurement values or return anincomplete measurement cycle to the starting point, pressthe CLEAR+CAL key.

SELECT-mode

Select-mode provides a second operational level. Thefollowing measurements and adjustments are available:

Switching to SELECT-mode requires the following simplesteps: (refer to next page).

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SELECT-mode

• Press both the %1+%2 and the D1+D2 keys(=SELECT) at the same time and keep pressing untilthe first menu function (TRAPPING 1) appears in thedisplay after approximately 2 seconds.


YES NO CONTINUE1 TRAPPING 1

Function 1 in SELECT-MODE

• Press one of the two keys (CLEAR+CAL or SEND)above CONTINUE to select a function from the list.

• Press the %1+%2 key above YES to activate theindicated function.

• Press the two keys %1+%2 and D1+D2 (=SELECT), atthe same time to leave the function.

• Press the D1+D2 key above NO to leave SELECT-mode .

Be advised:

You can switch an indefinite number of times between theindividual menu function with one of the two keys aboveCONTINUE. Function 1 always follows the last function.If no key is depressed within 2 minutes in SELECT-mode ,the device turns off automatically. Upon restarting with thestart key, the device is once again in measurement mode.

Special functions of the R 410e model

The R 410e densitometer features four special functions incomparison to the R 410 model, as mentioned at thebeginning of Chapter 3 - SELECT-mode - .

Measuring trapping 1 (according to Preucil)

By measuring trapping you can determine how two colorsprinted on top of each other relate.The trapping value TR (percent) indicates whether the sub-sequent second color was absorbed equally well by the firstcolor (TR = 100%) or worse (TR smaller than 100%) incomparison to absorption on virgin paper.

The result of the measurement is calculated according tothe Preucil-formula (see glossary ).

Measuring trapping:

1 Switch to SELECT-mode via the two SELECT keys .Trapping 1 appears on the display.

2 Register Trapping 1 with the key above YES.

The function selected will appear on the display forapproximately 1 second and then the register for themeasurement cycle.


TR1-MEASUREMENTSTOP WITH SELECT


TR1 C+M D1.....D2..... D12....

Function selected Measurement cycle register

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SELECT-mode

3 Select the desired color order with the key above C+M.

The following color orders are possible:C+M, C+Y, M+C, M+Y, Y+C, Y+M

4 Measure in sequence the first-printed color D1, thesecond-printed color D2 and their layered print D12 withthe green start key .

Please adhere to the order indicated for the individualmeasurements.

5 To leave the function trapping 1 :• Press both SELECT keys .• Press the key above NO.

At the end of a measurement cycle the trapping value in %and the three density values D1, D2 and D12 appear in thedisplay.


TR1 C+M 73%0.32 1.26 1.24

D1 D2 D12

Upon output of the measurement values, a newmeasurement cycle can start. It is not necessary to deletethe previous values.

trapping TR

Please be advised:

The measurements of a measurement cycle areimplemented with the filter of the second-printed color.That is why very low density values will be measured forthe first-printed color.


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Measuring trapping 2 (according to Ritz)

The result of the measurement is calculated according tothe Ritz-formula (see glossary ).

The measurement process is identical to the measurementfor trapping 1:

1 Switch to SELECT-mode via the two SELECT keys .2 Select trapping 2 by depressing the key above

CONTINUE.3 Register trapping 2 with the key above YES.4 Select the desired color combination with the key above

C+M.5 Measure in sequence the first-printed color D1, the

second-printed color D2 and their layered print D12 withthe green start key .

Please adhere to the order of the colors to be measured.

6 To leave the function trapping 2:• Press both SELECT keys .• Press the key above NO.

SELECT-mode

Measuring color tone error (hue)

The measurement function of color tone error (hue) is usedin checking print colors. Hue measures the divergence ofthe printed, real color from an ideal, theoretical print color.Since there are no ideal print colors and hue accordinglywill always exist, only the change of hue is judged.

The hue of a measurement at the start of a printing processthus serves as a reference for further controlmeasurements during the print run.

For further information please refer to the glossary .

Measuring hue:

1 Switch to SELECT-mode via the two SELECT keys .2 Select hue by depressing the key above CONTINUE.3 Register hue with the key above YES.4 Measure with the green start key .5 To leave the function hue :

• Press both SELECT keys .• Press the key above NO.

The print color is measured at the start of the printingprocess and as a control during the print run.

The change in color tone error (hue) indicates whether andhow much the color tone of a color has changed.

Be advised:

Only print colors with the same solid densities canbe compared.

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SELECT-mode

Upon measurement the color tone error (HU-value) in % andthe partial color densities (in order of size) of the color scaleappear in the display.


HU 41% M 1.40Y 0.61 C 0.05


HU 46% M 1.41Y 0.66 C 0.03

Example: Two colors magenta with different color tone errors in cause ofdifferent partial color density in yellow.

Measuring grayness

The sequential printing of the four colors cyan, magenta,yellow and black causes a color drag in the printing machine.With the measurement function of grayness, it is possible tocheck how “clean” the print colors are and confirm the extentof color drag in the printing machine.

For further information please refer to the glossary .

Measuring grayness:

1 Switch to SELECT-mode via the two SELECT keys .2 Select grayness by pressing the key above CONTINUE.3 Register grayness with the key above YES.4 Measure with the green start key .5 To leave the function grayness :


The print color is measured at the start of the printingprocess and controlled during the print run.

Upon measurement, the grayness (GR-value) in % as wellas the largest and smallest value of the partial colordensities of the colored process colors appear in thedisplay.


GR 4%Y 0.39 C 0.06

Grayness of yellow

This comparative measurement indicates whether colordrag occurred during the printing process and indicates thecorresponding counter measures, if any.

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SELECT-mode

Entering screen-percentage-values(%-REF)

For the measurements of dot gain and print contrast(%2-mode ) the screen densities of the deep tone area andthe medium tone area can be manually adjusted. Thispermits adjustment to the screen patches in the print controlstrip.

This adjustment is necessary for a correct calculation of dotgain and print contrast.

Entering halftone percentage values:

1 Switch to SELECT-mode with the two SELECT keys .2 Select %-REF values by pressing the key above

CONTINUE.3 Register %-REF values with the key above YES.4 Enter the screen-percentage values of the print control

strip used with the two keys above the + sign .


+ +%-REF 80% 40%

Screen-percentage values

5 To leave the function %-REF values :• Press both SELECT keys .• Press the key above NO.

For control purposes, select %2-measurement mode andconfirm that the adjusted values appear in the display.

Tips for entering:

• You can enter %-reference values between 1 and 99.• Depressing the keys above the + sign automatically

counts upwards.• The longer one of the keys is depressed, the faster

numbers count upwards.• Depressing the green start key recalls the standard

values (80% and 40%) to the display.

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D1-mode indicates density-difference-values. This occurs bysubtracting the reference values from the correspondingabsolute density value measured

Please be advised:

Reference values are only effective in D1-mode .

Tips for entry:

• You can adjust reference values of D = 0 until D = 2.50.Enter without the period.

• Depressing the keys above the corresponding colorautomatically counts upwards.

• The longer you depress one of the keys, the fasternumbers count upwards.

• Depressing the green start key resets the valuesto zero.

Entering white-reference-values (CAL-REF)

Before measuring, densitometers need to be calibrated tozero on the corresponding paper white of the print sheet.This excludes influences from the paper coloring or surfacein evaluating the color layers printed.

For certain applications, however, it makes sense to enterwhite-reference-values in order to compensate for densitydivergences caused by the use of differing print mediums.If, for instance, one wants to print on an older print sheet,one way to do this is through a white calibration on thereference white (standard paper white) with the R 410/emodel. Then it is possible to conduct a density measurementon the older print sheet. The indicated density values areentered in the CAL-REF menu. Upon calibrating the colorson the older print sheet, you can measure and receive thedensity values of the print color for the new print sheet.

SELECT-mode

Entering density-reference-values(DEN-REF)

The R 410/e model automatically indicates differences indensity values between a color patch with a given densityand several color patches to be measured.

Entering density reference values:

1 Switch to SELECT-mode via the two SELECT keys .2 Select DEN-REF values by depressing the key above

CONTINUE.3 Register DEN-REF values with the key above YES.4 Enter density-reference-values with the keys above

C, M, Y and B.


C M Y B150 152 144 185

Density-reference-values

5 To leave the function DEN-REF values:• Press both SELECT keys .• Press the key above NO.

Upon entry you can conduct density measurements inD1-mode . Density is measured as described in Chapter 2 -Density measurements - D1-mode- .

The letter R (for density-reference-value) will appear in thedisplay below D1.

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SELECT-mode

Entering white reference values:

1 Switch to SELECT-mode via the two SELECT keys .2 Select CAL-REF values by pressing the key above

CONTINUE.3 Register CAL-REF values with the key above YES.4 Enter white-reference-values with the keys above

C, M, Y and B.5 To leave the function CAL-REF values:



C M Y B6 4 12 8


CAL B 0.08 C 0.06REF M 0.04 Y 0.12

Entered reference values Display during white calibration

For control purposes, you can select D1 or D2-mode toconduct a white calibration.REF (for reference value) will appear on the display belowCAL and the entered white-reference-values.

Tips for entry:

• You can enter reference values of D = 0 up to D = 0.25.Enter without periods.

• Depressing the keys above the respective colorautomatically counts upwards.

• The longer you press one of the keys, the fasternumbers count upwards.

• Pressing the green start key resets the values back tozero.

Entering the Yule-Nielsen factor n

The effective dot percentage, which is measured byreflection, consists of two shares: a geometric share and anoptical share. The geometric sector is the surface relation ofscreen dots to paper white. The optical sector is created bylight diffusion around the screen dot called “light capture” aswell as the irregular coverage of the screen dots.

By adjusting the Yule-Nielsen factor n , the optical sectorcan be calculated from the measured effective dotpercentage so that only the geometric share is shown.

This measurement process is used, for example, inmeasurements on print plates. For print plates only thegeometric share is of interest since only this share iscolored and printed.

Entering Yule-Nielsen factor n:

1 Switch to SELECT-mode via the two SELECT keys .2 Select Yule-Nielsen by pressing the key above

CONTINUE.3 Register Yule-Nielsen with the key above YES.4 Press the keys above CLEAR to bring up the register

for measurement. At the same time the n-factor isreset to 1.00.


CLEARn 1.00


SD .... DD ....n 1.00

Resetting the n-factor Register for measurement

43


42

SELECT-mode

5 Measure solid density SD and screen density DD.

The screen patch DD to be measured should be made up,as much as accurately possible, of 50% geometric screendots. The relation is best seen with rectangular screen dots.At a geometric dot percentage of 50%, when the picture isviewed with a magnifying glass, a chess-square patternemerges where the tips of the screen dots just touch.

6 Adjust DP (dot percentage) with the keys above + or - tothe visually determined factor of 50%. The Yule-Nielsenfactor n is concurrently calculated.


CLEAR + -n 1.00 DP 61.0


CLEAR + -n 1.55 DP 50.0

Effective dot percentage Adjusting the n-factor

7 To leave the function Yule-Nielsen factor :• Press both SELECT keys .• Press the key above NO.

After leaving the Yule-Nielsen factor and selecting%1-mode , the new n-factor appears on the display.

Please be advised:

In entering the n-factor, the measured dot percentagevalues of DP must be between 10% and 90% .Otherwise the device will show that the DP-value iseither too large (DP>>) or too small (DP<<).

The n-factor is only effective in %1-mode .

If the n-factor value is n = 1.00, the factor will not bedisplayed in %1-mode .

Tips for entry:

• The Yule-Nielsen factor scales from n = 0.5 throughn = 4.99.

• Continuously depressing the + or - key counts insteps of one.

• Depressing the + or - key just once counts insteps of 0.1.

For further information about this topic please request ourApplication Note 3 .

45


44

SELECT-mode

Basic calibration of the densitometer(SLOPE)

The R 410 and R 410e models are shipped with acalibration card, the TECHKON CALIBRATION CHART.TECHKON conducts a basic calibration of the device usingprecise ceramic standards. The density values for the colorsC, M, Y and B entered on the calibration chart refer to theceramic standards.

We recommend confirming calibration of the device usingthe supplied calibration chart (the same serial number mustappear on both). If values are determined that diverge bymore than D = +/- 0.02 from the values on the calibrationchart, a new calibration is required. Calibration should bechecked every 2 months. Under more strenuous operatingconditions, more frequent calibration intervals arerecommended.

A new calibration is also necessary if you are using asubstitute chart or where, for improved coordination, acommon calibration chart is used by a company for severaldevices.

Please be advised:

For a new calibration, the calibration chart values mustfirst be entered into the device.Only then do you measure the measurement patches ofthe calibration chart.

Entering calibration chart values (SLOPE values)

For a new calibration, the calibration chart values will firstneed to be entered into the device.

Entering calibration chart values:

1 Switch to SELECT-mode via the two SELECT keys .2 Select SLOPE-values by pressing the key above

CONTINUE.3 Register SLOPE-values with the key above YES.4 Enter density values from the calibration chart with the

keys above C, M, Y, B.


C M Y B100 100 100 100

Entering SLOPE-values

5 To leave the function SLOPE-values :• Press both SELECT keys .• Press the key above NO.

Tips for entry:

• You can enter calibration chart values from D = 1.00through D = 2.50. Enter without periods.

• Depressing the keys above the respective colorautomatically counts upwards.

• The longer you press one of the keys, the fasternumbers count upwards.

• Pressing the green start key will reset thevalues to D = 1.00.

47


46

SELECT-mode

Measuring calibration chart values(SLOPE measurement)

Verify that no dust or powder have accumulated in the areaof the measurement orifice. If necessary, clean themeasurement orifice with clean compressed air.

Work especially carefully in conducting the SLOPEmeasurement . Choose a smooth working surface for themeasurement.

Measuring the calibration chart values:

1 Switch to SELECT-mode via the two SELECT keys .2 Select SLOPE-measurement by pressing the key

above CONTINUE.3 Register SLOPE-measurement with the key above

YES. The device prompts you to conduct a whitecalibration.

4 Conduct a white calibration on the calibration chart bypressing the CLEAR+CAL key once .

After white calibration you will be prompted to measure thecolor cyan.

5 Measure the cyan patch on the calibration chart bypressing the green start key .

The measured value of cyan will appear on the display.


MEASURE CYANPLEASE START


C 1.13

Prompt for measuring cyan Measured value of cyan

The prompts for measurement of the colors magenta,yellow and black will follow in turn. Upon termination of themeasurements, the device automatically leaves thisfunction.

6 To leave the function SELECT-mode :• Press the key above NO.

SLOPE-measurement can be aborted by pressing thekey SELECT and started over again.

For control purposes, measure the patches on thecalibration chart in D1-mode . The divergences should be nomore than D = +/- 0.01.

Handle the calibration chart with care and choose a dark,dust-free place at room temperature for storage.

Data transfer (SEND-mode)

In manual transfer mode , data transfer is started with theSEND key .

In automatic transfer mode , data is automaticallytransferred upon each measurement.In addition, the measurement values can be transferred atany time with the SEND key .

During transfer a signal can be heard. Two parallel lines willappear for a moment on the display.

Adjusting data transfer:

1 Switch to SELECT-mode with the two SELECT keys .2 Select SEND-mode by pressing the key above

CONTINUE.3 Register SEND-mode with the key above YES.4 Press the key above MAN for manual or AUT for

automatic transfer.

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48

4

Care and Maintenance

The current transfer mode is marked by an arrow.

5 To leave the function SEND-mode :• Press both SELECT keys .• Press the key above NO.

Selection of language

The models R 410 and R 410e permit selection of thelanguages German, English, French, Spanish, Italian, Dutchand Swedish.

Selection of language:

1 Switch to SELECT-mode via the two SELECT keys .2 Select LANGUAGE by pressing the key above

CONTINUE.3 Register LANGUAGE with the key above YES.4 Select the desired language with one of the keys above

CONTINUE.


CONTINUE ENGLISH

Selection of language

5 To leave the function LANGUAGE :• Press both SELECT keys .• Press the key above NO.


The warranty period for the R 410 and R 410e models is 12months beginning on the date of purchase. Your inraice isalso your warranty certificate.

The R 410/e model is basically maintenance-free.Nevertheless, we recommend inspecting the device atregular intervals of app. 24 months. Inspection can only bedone by TECHKON or a TECHKON-authorized servicecenter.

The R 410/e model is a high-precision, opticalmeasurement device. Avoid unnecessary impact, strongtemperature changes, dust and humidity.

The measurement head of the R 410 and the R 410e modelis sealed against dust. Nevertheless, make sure that nopowder or dust accumulate in the lower area of themeasurement duct. If necessary, clean the measurementorifice with clean , compressed air . Spray cans withcompressed air are available at specialty stores.

Clean the housing and display occasionally with a glasscleaner and a soft cloth.

Do not adhere any labels to the bottom of the device asthis will change the distance from measuring head to testobject, wich may result in errors of measurement.

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50

Calibration Chart

The calibration chart is valid for 24 months as of the dateprinted on the card, provided it is properly stored andhandled. In case of visible soiling or damage to themeasurement patches, the calibration chart will need to bereplaced before expiration of validity.Please store your calibration chart dust-free, dry and folded(measurement patches on the inside) in the pocket of themanual.

Before conducting control measurements, always cleanthe bottom side of the measurement device.

Reset function

If the device does not function properly despite properoperation, you can immediately eliminate the malfunction bypressing the reset switch. The reset switch is located behindan opening in the bottom plate and can be depressed with apointed tool (see figure p. 11).

Reset does not affect saved reference values.Measurement values displayed last, however, will be lost.

Troubleshooting

This section describes select causes of malfunctions andtheir solution. The tips will help you to more accuratelydetermine the cause of problems.

In case of malfunctions wich you can not clear yourself withthe aid of above table, please send the defective deviceback to us and include a fault describtion.

Always return the device with the accompanying calibrationchart, charging console and case. Only use the originalpackaging in transporting the device.

Never open the device yourself. Unauthorized opening candamage the device and void the warranty.


Malfunction Possible causes Solution

Wrong measurement values

Dirty measurement orifice

Clean measurement orifice with compressed air

Broken measurement bulb

Exchange measurement bulb (from TECHKON)

Initial measurement on wrong calibration chart

Entry of calibration values and new measurement of calibration values (SLOPE values)

Charging problem

Dirty contacts Clean contacts

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52

PC and Software

5 PC and Software

The R 410 and R 410e models are equipped with a serialRS 232 port for PC transfer.

TECHKON offers two quality assurance programs for thesemeasurement devices.

TECHKON EXChange(for Windows and Macintosh)

A simple key-stroke on the R 410/R 410e transfers themeasurement data via TECHKON EXChange to thespreadsheet program Microsoft Excel for further processing

By programming Excel macros, the user is able to custom-process data in line with his/her specific requirements. Thispermits the production of extensive measurement protocolsin a short time.

In the Macintosh version, measurement data can also betransferred directly into other applications, e.g. Simple Text,Word, FileMaker, etc.

TECHKON EXChange is an ideal and flexible tool for qualityassurance.

TECHKON QS Pro (for Windows)

The TECHKON QS Pro software offers the followingpossibilities for registry of measurement data :

• Registering print index lines• Adjusting dot gains• Adjusting color, resp. gray balance• Adjusting differing print processes to uniform standards.

With TECHKON QS Pro you can register and optimize printand copy characteristic curves. Moreover, you can adjustdiffering print index lines to each other and adjust thecurves of frequency-modulated grids to amplitude-modulated grids. It is also possible to adjust to a freelydefinable reference characteristic curve.

Determination of the index line enables control of the entireprinting process. This creates a standard whichencompasses the area of reproduction, proof, plate copyand print.

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6

Glossary

Technical Data

Type Color densitometer R 410/R 410 e

Measurement process Color density measurements toDIN 16536/ISO S 3

Selection of filters Automatic color recognition

Measurement filter DIN 16536 E (additional filtersoptional)

Polarization filter standard, double-linear

Measurement area D 0.00 through 2.50 D

Measurement area % 0 though 100%

Measurement point size 3,2 mm diameter

Measurement light 2856 +/-100 K

Measurement geometry Illumination 0º, light collection 45º

Measurement elements 4 GaAsP-diodes with approximatedV(λ) lightness sensitivity

IR-sensitivity none

Linearity +/-0.01 D, +/-1%

Reproductivity +/-0.01 D, +/-0.1%

Exemplary scattering +/-0.02 D, +/-1%

Compensation automatic for all colors

Display 2 lines, 16 signs per line

Serial port serial RS 232

A/C supply rechargeable NiMH battery8.4V, 1100 mAh,

Charging device A/C supply 230V/50 Hz or110V/60 Hz, controlled chargingcurrent, no overcharging

Size/weight HWL 56 x 64 x 186 mm, 480 g

Technical changes reserved ©TECHKON 1998

Glossary

CalibrationCalibration is the zeroing of the densitometer on therespective paper white of the run paper (referencewhite). Calibration measures the reflected light of thepaper white and declares a density of zero for this value.

Calibration chartChart supplied with the densitometer on which theprocess colors cyan, magenta, yellow and black areprinted for exact determination of their respective densityvalues.

Characteristic printing curvesPrinting curves are curves that graphically representthe functional connection between dot percentage ofthe screen value of the master copy and the screenvalue on the print plate.

Color balanceIn multi-color printing, all color shades are createdthrough layered print of the process colors cyan,magenta, yellow and black.The accordingly reproduced color set (films, mastercopies) creates the desired color shade in standardizedprint. If the relation of the printed surface shares of cyan,magenta and yellow is not maintained during one of thefollowing transfer processes, color balance is upset andresults in a color imbalance.

Color densityColor density is a logarithmic number which is calculatedfrom the relations of the absorbed, resp. diffuse reflectedshare of light to an absolute white (reference surface).

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56

Glossary

Color tone error (hue)Color tone error indicates the divergence of the printed,real color from an ideal, theoretical print color of equaldensity.Color tone error is calculated as follows:

DH = highest partial color densityDM = medium partial color densityD

L= smallest partial color density

Only the colored partial color densities, not partial colordensity B, are evaluated.

DensitometerDensitometers are density measurement devices forreflection and transmission measurements inreproduction and print.

DensityOptical density is a logarithmic number which iscalculated from the relation of absorbed, resp. diffusereflected light compared to an “absolute white”, e.g. areference surface.

Density differenceDensity difference is the difference between two colordensities.

Density reference valueDensity reference values are density values for a definedcolor patch that have been adjusted and saved in adensitometer. The patch serves as a reference surfacefor density measurement for other color patches.

Dot gainDot gain is the result of the difference between theknown screen value on the film and the measuredscreen value on the print control strip.

DP = Dot percantageREF = Halftone percentage values of the print control

strip

Dot percentageDot percentage is the part of a screen patch that iscovered with print color. It is calculated according to theMurray-Davies formula as follows:

SD = Solid densityDD = Screen density

GraynessGrayness indicates the extent to which a print color hasbeen discolored due to color drag in the print machine.Grayness is calculated as follows:

DH

= highest partial color densityD

L= lowest partial color density

Only the colored partial color densities are evaluated,not the partial color density of black.

Gray balanceDuring multiple-color printing all color shades arecreated through layered printing of the process colors(cyan, magenta, yellow and black).

DG DP REF= - (%)

HUD DD D

M L

H L=

--

·100(%)

DPDD

SD=-

-·

-

-

1 10

1 10100(%)

GRDD

L

H= ·100(%)

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58

Glossary

The accordingly reproduced color set (films, mastercopies) creates the desired color shade in standardizedprinting, i.e. a color shade designated as gray duringreproduction appears as a neutral gray - i.e., graybalance. If the relation of the surface share of cyan,magenta and yellow are not maintained during one ofthe following transfer processes, gray balance is upsetand results in a color imbalance.

Partial color densityPartial color density is the color density of one of theprocess colors cyan, magenta, yellow or black.

Print contrastPrint contrast indicates the extent of contrast betweensolid and screen. Print contrast helps control the screen.Print contrast is calculated as follows:

SD = solid densityDR = screen density in deep tone sector

(e.g. 75% or 80%)

Print index linePrint index lines are curves that graphically representthe functional relation between dot percentage of thescreen value on the film and the scren value on the print.Print index lines illustrate the adherence to the transferfunction film/print.The print index line is only valid for the respectivecombination of print color, paper, rubber sheets andprint plate for which it has been determined.

Process colorsProcess colors are the print colors cyan, magenta,yellow and black.

Screen densityThe density measured on a screen patch expressed asratio of printed and unprinted surface.

Screen patchThe screen patch consists of single dots that may beshaped and ordered differently.

Screen percentagesScreen percentages are the dot percentage ratios ofscreen dots and the paper white of a screen patchexpressed in percentages.

SLOPE-measurementSLOPE measurement is the process of initialmeasurement of solid patches on a calibration chart withthe densitometer.

SLOPE valuesSLOPE values are the density values of solid patches onthe calibration chart and which have been entered intothe densitometer.

Solid densityThis is the color density of a solid patch.

TrappingColor absorption indicates how two colors printed on topof each other relate. This refers to how well the second-printed color has been absorbed by the first-printed colorcompared to absorption on virgin paper.Color absorption is calculated as follows:Trapping 1 (according to Preucil ):

Trapping 2 (according to Ritz):

D1 = Density of first-printed colorD2 = Density of second-printed colorD12 = Density of layered printD1, D2 and D12 are measured with the filter of thesecond-printed color.

CSD DD

SD=

-

TRD D

D=

-·

12 12

100(%)

TRD D

D=-

-·

- -

-

1 10

1 10100

12 1

2

( )

(%)

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60

Manufacturer´s certificate

White calibrationCalibration of a densitometer on paper white.

Yule-Nielsen factorThe Yule-Nielsen formula is the Murray-Davies formulaextended by the factor n for calculation of dotpercentage. Factor n describes the optical share ofeffective dot percentage.With the Yule-Nielsen formula measured dot percentagecan be corrected so that only the geometric share ofeffective dot percentage is calculated.The geometric share of dot percentage is calculatedaccording to the Yule-Nielsen formula as follows:

SD = Solid densityDD = Screen density

Manufacturer’s certificate

Device: Densitometer R 410/e

Serial number:

Manufacturer: TECHKON GmbH

Auxiliary materials: Manual, calibration chart

Standards:

The device has been manufactured according to therecommendations of standards DIN 16 536 Part 1 and 2and ANSI PH 2.18. Calculation of densitometric indexvalues is done according to formulas derived from standardDIN 16 527 Part 3 and the standardization manual of theBVD (Federal Association for Print, e.V.) and FOGRA(Research Association for Print, e.V.)

CE-Sign:

The device meets EU-guideline 89/336/EWG onelectromagnetic digestibility (EMV) and has been awardedthe CE sign.

Inspections:

The values recorded on the calibration chart refer toceramic standards with which TECHKON implementedbasic calibration of the device.When checking the device with the calibration chart, novalues should be measured that diverge by more thanD = +/- 0.02 from the values on the calibration chart. If thereis such a divergence, a new calibration is required. Thedevice should be periodically inspected at intervals ofevery 2 months.

DP

DDn

SDn

=-

-

·

-

-

1 10

1 10

100(%)


62

Calibration chart:

Provided the calibration chart is properly stored andhandled, the chart is valid for 24 months as of the dateprinted on the chart. If the chart is visibly soiled ormeasurement patches damaged, the calibration chartneeds to be replaced before the expiration date. Thecalibration chart is stored dry, dust-free and folded(measurement patches on the inside) in the pouch of themanual. Before control measurements, the bottom side ofthe measurement device should be cleaned.

Maintenance:

24 months has emerged as a good interval for regularinspection. Inspections can only be performed byTECHKON or a TECHKON-authorized service center.

Date Signature

TECHKON GmbHWiesbadener Str. 27D-61462 Königstein

Tel: ++49 - (0)6174 - 92 44 50Fax: ++49 - (0)6174 - 92 44 99http://www.techkon.come-mail: [email protected]

Documents

Manual - PARTXPRES have chosen to purchase a TECHKON Color Densitometer R 410/e. With this manual we want to present you an easy entry into use of your measuring device