LaCie White Paper:
Soft Proofing
Page 6
Soft proofing systems
Several systems are available for contract-color soft proofing: DALiM DiALOGUE, ICS Remote Director,
Kodak MATCHPRINT Virtual Proofing System and others. Each is based on document certification.
For contract-color soft proofing system users, the software must be easy to use. Each system uses file
streaming technology to deliver the soft proof and view it efficiently.
This reduces bandwidth requirements needed to “deliver” the soft proof. For the client, this means the
network will provide enough bandwidth to view and navigate the soft proof efficiently.
Output profiles
A good profile is essential for contract-color soft proofing systems. It is used to render the color of the
target device (typically the press) on the LCD display. A soft proofing profile can be created from a digital
proofing device or from the press. The most accurate method is to profile the press, and because there are
more variables in this process, more rigorous quality control procedures are required.
Using measurement and calibration to achieve a repeatable and consistent process ensures the accuracy of a profile
created from a press run. This requires calibration of all elements. This requires measuring plates, using the same ink
set and running to an established printing guideline (such as SWOP or GRACoL) in the pressroom.
A High end monitor
A good monitor is essential. The following features are key points to consider when selecting a suitable
display.
requiremeNtS: SOFtWare, hardWare, aNd
VieWiNG CONditiONS
