Colour Measuring System Spots Errors In Workflow

X-Rite's upgraded VipPaq in-line multi-channel densitometric colour measuring system has been made available by the company.

VipPaq version 2.0 is claimed to reduce the set-up time for print runs and enables users to identify potentially costly errors early in the workflow through real-time control at the control console of print conditions.

It also eliminates the need to slow the run for quality inspections.

X-Rite added that VipPaq 2.0 provides total control during the production process, allowing for consistent colour reproduction and location and removal of print run errors.

For accurate future reprints, VipPaq 2.0 records the exact print conditions and archives the job data for optimum quality control.

VipPaq version 2.0 is a modular in-line system that is claimed to optimise production control and quality assurance in flexography and gravure printing.

The system consists of up to four nine-channel densitometers with handheld-compatible optics, a controller and system software.

X-Rite claimed that VipPaq is the only system that can be installed on press in a fully closed-loop implementation, saving users time during the packaging production process and producing a higher quality product at lower cost.

For flexo printing, VipPaq is said to enable accurate colour management by measuring optical density in-line during the press run, allowing consistent reproduction of targeted printing conditions.

Christian Benz, senior product manager for Pressroom Instruments at X-Rite, said: "The upgrades to the VipPaq system make one of the industry's most powerful in-line colour measurement systems even more flexible and user-friendly.

VipPaq version 2.0 provides true closed-loop process control, which is an essential element to spot colour management and a key requirement of packaging production in flexo and gravure printing.

This upgrade will add significant value for new users and for those who currently rely on VipPaq for accurate and efficient results." Compared to VipPaq 1.4.6 the new product includes the VipPaq import data tool that is claimed to accelerate importing of Spectro Eye, 530 and 939 measurement data for reference value measurements, as well as featuring the ability to view and export data after print runs for quality assurance purposes.

The system also features a multi-trigger control element that splits the control strip when working with limited space, as well as having dot gain and dot area displays, including the option to monitor density instead of dot area of halftone patches.

There is, in addition, the facility for start and stop measurement, with the ability to turn the reading head on and off without trigger marks.

An alarm provides the option to connect alarm system (a flashing light, or sound) to a host computer to increase visibility of out-of-tolerance warnings, whilst there is also a new USB driver for simpler installation, as well as French and Spanish language versions.

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