Techkon SpectroDrive User Manual

TECHKON

Manual

Scan-Measurement-System

SpectroDrive

Software

ExPresso 3

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

TECHKON software is the intellectual property of TECHKON GmbH. Purchase of the soft­ware grants the user a license for the use on one computer only. Programs may only be copied
for back-up purposes. TECHKON can not be held liable for any damages that may occur by the
use of the software.

The TECHKON team takes great care in producing this manual. Nevertheless, we can not fully
guarantee the complete absence of errors. TECHKON GmbH and the authors can not be held
liable neither for any possibly incorrect statements nor their consequences. TECHKON can not
be held liable for any damages that may occur by the use of the software.

Products that are not made by TECHKON GmbH are mentioned for information purposes
only and such statements do not represent trademark infringement. All registered trademarks
are recognized.

TECHKON products and product names are registered internationally under several intellec­tual patents and trademarks.

Specifications can be subject to change without notice.

Version 2.2, July 2012

You can reach us at the following address:

TECHKON GmbH
Wiesbadener Str. 27 • D-61462 Königstein / Germany
Telephone: [phone] • Telefax: [phone]
[e-mail] • www.techkon.com

Welcome

We welcome you among the worldwide community of users of TECHKON products.
We are happy that you have selected this high-quality measurement instrument. It
will be a valuable tool for your day-to-day quality control tasks. With this manual we
invite you to learn how to use SpectroDrive, the software ExPresso 3 and Spectro­Connect.

The manual is divided into four chapters:

Chapter 1: General description of the measurement system

Chapter 2: Installation of SpectroDrive and the software ExPresso 3

Chapter 3: How to use SpectroDrive and the software ExPresso 3

Chapter 4: How to use the Windows software SpectroConnect

You will be fascinated how easy the system is to use. You will know how to work
with SpectroDrive after only a few minutes. The third chapter will show you detailed
insight into the measurement functions.

Please get the device registered by using the detachable registration card, which is the
last page of this manual. That way we can keep you updated about product news.

Please visit us as well on the internet at www.techkon.com.
You will find useful information about the complete product range
and new software versions.

Do you have any suggestions for improvements or do you require information that
goes beyond the contents of this manual? We will be glad to hear from you. Your sug­gestions or questions make an important contribution to the continuous optimization
of our documentation and products.

Your TECHKON Team

Contents

Chapter 1: General description of the measurement system

1.1 Product description ..............................................................................5

1.2 Packing list ............................................................................................. 9

Chapter 2: Installation of SpectroDrive and the software ExPresso 3

2.1 Assembly of SpectroDrive ..................................................................10

2.2 Installation of the software ExPresso 3 ...........................................11

Chapter 3: How to use SpectroDrive and the software ExPresso 3

3.1 Operation of SpectroDrive ................................................................12

3.2 Care and maintenance ......................................................................... 15

3.3 Software overview ................................................................................20

3.4 Software settings ...................................................................................23

3.5 Defining and running a print job ....................................................... 41

Chapter 4: How to use the Windows software SpectroConnect

4.1 Software description ...................................................................... 63

4.2 Installation ......................................................................................... 63

4.3 Overview .......................................................................................... 64

4.4 Software module “SpectroJet settings” ...................................... 65

4.5 Device update .................................................................................. 66

4.6 Software module “Export” ............................................................ 67

4.7 Software module “ColorCatcher” .............................................. 68

4.8 Software module “PhotoLab” ....................................................... 69

4.9 Software module „MediaWedge“ ................................................ 72

Appendix:

Technical specifications
Manufacturer certificate
EC-Declaration of Conformity
Registration card

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 1 – General description Page 5

Chapter 1

General description of the measurement system

1.1 Product description

TECHKON SpectroDrive, with its automatic color and density measurement capabili­ties, is the perfect solution to substantially increase press productivity by ensuring
consistent print-to-print color accuracy throughout the press run.

The system consists of the following components: The motorized measurement
system scans the complete color bar on a printed sheet within seconds and simulta­neously sends the spectral measurement data wirelessly to the PC where all relevant
information for controlling the printing press is displayed.

The measurement device has only one button to start the measurement process.
The PC-software ExPresso 3 has a self-explanatory user interface which can be oper­ated via touch-screen. Installation is simple as well. After a few minutes the system
is operable and ready to take measurements.

SpectroDrive can be used as a scanning device as well as a hand-held instrument for
single measurements. Just take the device from the horizontal track and position it
wherever you want to take a color measurement.

The TECHKON ExPresso 3 software offers a comprehensive tool-set comprising
measurement of spot colors, support of up to 16 print units, face- and reverse-print­ing, display of color density, dot gain, gray balance, CIE L*a*b*-values and recommen­dations on how to adjust the ink on the press. This is only an excerpt of the complete
functionality.

Thanks to its modularity, ExPresso 3 is expandable and versatile. The measurement
data can be exported into other software applications that connect real-time to
printing presses to enable a ‘close loop’ turn-key solution. In addition, TECHKON
ExPresso can export measured data to standard applications such as Microsoft Excel™.

Page 6 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 1 – General description

All advantages at a glance:

Easy to handle

• Fast, motorized scanning by pressing
the green measurement button on the

touch-screen or on the device itself

• Automatic white calibration

• TECHKON ExPresso PC-software

can be operated with or without the
touch-screen

• The device can easily be used as hand-

held device for spot measurements
as well

Modular and compact

• Works with any sheet or press format

• Horizontal track can be shipped in any

length up to 1800 mm

• Space-saving measurement device fits

on any table

• The mounting table can be inclined up

to 45°

• Delivery contains all components

supplied in a practical carrying case

Easy to install

• Installation is made within five minutes
without any major assembly effort

• Complete system is maintenance free

• Measurement system can be flipped
180°, if the color bar is on the opposite
side of the printed sheet

• Wireless, fast data transmission;
no cable required

• No vacuum air suction is necessary to
hold down the printed sheet

Complete measurement information

• Any color bar can be measured
(patch size has to match aperture size)

• Color bar can be at any location on the
printed sheet

• No limitation in paper thickness

• Automatic polarizing filter function for
densitometric and colorimetric mea­ surements

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 1 – General description Page 7

Accurate

• Precise spectral engine with automati­cally insertable polarizing filter

• Patented measurement head for easy
positioning conforming to ISO and
DIN standards

• UV cut filter option available

• Robust design for reliable function in
a harsh industrial environment

Fast

• High resolution spectral measurement
of a complete color bar within seconds
(e.g. 500 mm sheet length in about 3
seconds!)

• On-line time wireless data transmission
to the PC during scan

• Information overview displays relevant
parameters for quality control

Using SpectroDrive as a
hand-held unit is simple.
Just position the compact
measurement head above
the sample and press
the green measurement
button. The measure­ment value is transmitted
instantly to the PC.

SpectroDrive is the ideal
extension to TECHKON’s
renown hand-held mea­surement instruments:
SpectroPlate is the
perfect tool for accurately
reading printing plates and
SpectroDens is the mo­bile, multi-purpose spectro­densitometer which can be
used at any location.

TECHKON SpectroDrive
is delivered as a complete
turn-key system. Within a
few minutes the system is
up and running.

One unique feature of
SpectroDrive is its flexi­bility to be used with any
press type or format.

Page 8 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 1 – General description

52: 750 mm
74: 970 mm
102: 1250 mm
105: 1280 mm

95 mm

52: 370 mm

74: 530 mm

102: 720 mm

105: 780 mm

170 mm

Dimensions

Two different performance packages

The scan-measurement device SpectroDrive and the Microsoft Windows software
ExPresso form a complete quality control system for increasing productivity and qual­ity of a printing press.
There are two different versions available:

SpectroDrive + ExPresso Basic

consists of the spectral measuring device
SpectroDrive and the Microsoft Windows
software ExPresso Basic with the follow­ing functions:

• Ink zone specific density display

• Color density for CMYK and spot
colors (spectral density)

• Densitometric gray balance

• Dot area, dot gain and printing contrast

• Slur/doubling value

• Target values, references, tolerances,
OK-sheet

• Front- and reverse-printing

• Works with any color bar length

• Display of single measurements when
used as a hand-held device

• Measurement data export (e.g. JDF-format)

• Statistical analysis and report generator

• Supports up to 6 printing units

Formats:

52: for printed sheet 00 (B3+, 370 x 520 mm)
74: for printed sheet 0B (B2+, 520 x 740 mm)
102: for printed sheet 3B (B1+, 720 x 1020 mm)
105: for printed sheet 3B+ (B1+, 780 x 1050 mm)
Special formats (up to 2100 mm system length/
1800 mm scan length) on request

SpectroDrive + ExPresso Pro

contains the same functions as the Basic
package and additionally:

• Ink zone specific colorimetric ∆E*a*b*­ display, CIE L*a*b*, ∆L*a*b*, L*C*h*,
∆L*C*h*

• “InkCheck” recommendation for ink
key setting

• Display and evaluation according to
ISO 12647, Gracol G7™

• Supports up to 16 printing units

A post-purchase software-upgrade from
the Basic- to the Pro-version can be
done easily.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 1 – General description Page 9

The carrying case protects SpectroDrive and
parts

1.2 Packing list

Optional accessories:

• Print control strips TECHKON TCS, available as EPS- and pdf-files on CD
(can be downloaded free of charge at www.techkon.com)

• Software-upgrades from ExPresso Basic to ExPresso Pro

• Replacement parts: left holder with charging console and white standard,
rechargeable battery, measurement lamp.
All parts are easy to exchange.

• Color reference SpectroCheck for checking the measuring accuracy

Contents of delivery:

• Measurement device SpectroDrive

• Left holder incorporating charging
console and white standard,
horizontal track, right holder,
Two vertical bars

• AC adapter with universal plugs

• WLAN-Module for wireless data
transmission, USB cable

• Carrying case, manual with ISO 9000
compliant certificate

• Screwdriver, 4 screws.

• Optional: CD with software ExPresso 3,
USB-dongle (software protection key)

System requirements: for TECHKON
software: Microsoft Windows XP, Vista
or 7; 32- and 64-bit;
Minimum: IBM-compatible PC with Intel
Core Duo processor or comparable
processor, 1 GB RAM, 2 USB-ports

Recommended touch-screen:
Elotouch 1727L 17"

Page 10 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 2 – Installation

Chapter 2

Installation of SpectroDrive and the software ExPresso 3

2.1 Assembly of SpectroDrive

• Connect the horizontal track with the left
and right holder as shown on the images.
Before placing the holders upside down, put
a soft material underneath to avoid scratches.
Before tightening the first screw, insert the
second screw and assure that the holder is
correctly aligned.

• The two vertical bars are attached ver­tically at the right and left side on a flat
table. Before adhering them, it is important
to check that they are parallel and have the
right distance to each other. We advise to
mark the position with a pencil first. Now
attach the two vertical bars, which have self­adhesive tape on the backside to the table or
console. The surface has to be flat and with
uniform color. Preferably the table will have a
lay-on edge for positioning the printed sheet.
Assure, that the vertical bars are parallel and
well aligned in order to hold the left and right
holder which will attach magnetically to the
vertical bars.

• Connect the plug of the AC adapter with
the charging console.
The AC adapter can be used universally for
100 – 240 V. Use only the original TECHKON
SpectroDrive AC adapter!
(Part no.: FRIWO FW 75550/08).

• There are three adapter plugs for different
countries. For changing, just pull the plug and
push in the new one. Make sure that the plug
adapter has a tight fit.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 2 – Installation Page 11

2.2 Installation of the software ExPresso 3

PC

Module for wireless data transmission

System requirements:

• PC with Microsoft Windows XP, Vista
or 7; 32- and 64-bit;
Minimum: IBM-compatible PC with
Intel Core Duo processor or compa­ rable processor, 1 GB RAM

• 2 USB ports

• Screen resolution: min. 1024 x 768

The software is optimized to be oper­ated with a touch sensitive screen
(for example: Elotouch 1727L 17").
However, working without a touch­screen by using a conventional mouse /
trackpad and keyboard is also possible.

Recommended color bar:

Print control strip TECHKON TCS Digi­tal (included with ExPresso 3 software).

Installation:

It is important to carry out the following
steps in the right order, to make sure
that the USB device drivers will be in­stalled properly.

1. Make sure that the USB-dongle (software
protection key) and the module for wireless
data transmission are NOT connected to the
PC. Insert the TECHKON CD into the CD
drive of the computer.

2. Select “ExPresso Installation” from the
menu. The installation routine will start auto­matically. Follow the steps of the installation,
until it is completed.

3. Now, after the installation was finished
successfully you can connect the module
for wireless data transmission with the USB
cable and the USB-dongle to the PC.

4. TECHKON ExPresso can now be launched.

Module
for wire­less data
transmis­sion

Page 12 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

Chapter 3

How to use SpectroDrive and the software ExPresso 3

3.1 Operation of SpectroDrive

Automatic measurement

• Place the measurement device on the
horizontal track.

• The module for the wireless data trans­mission has to be positioned as close as pos­sible to the measurement device with the
front pointing to the measurement system as
shown on the image. Please connect it to the
PC via the USB cable AFTER the installation
of the software (see p. 11).

• By pressing the green measurement button
the device will move into the charging station
at the left, where it is automatically charged,
which is indicated by a green-flashing LED.

• You can align the measurement system
in vertical direction. By keeping the black
buttons on the left and right holder pressed
you reduce the magnetic adhesion of the
holders.

• First, position the printed sheet at the
lower lay-on edge.

• Then move both holders vertically, so
that the measurement head is exactly on
top of the color patches. It can be helpful
to slide the measurement device from one
side to the other in order to check that the
measurement aperture covers the complete
color bar during a scan.

Place sheet within

measurement zone

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 13

Spot measurements

It is important that the measurement aper­ture always covers the color patches com­pletely during the entire scan.

• When using color bars with a patch height
smaller than 4,5 mm, the edge of the mea­surement head of the device has to be placed
exactly at the upper edge of the color bar, to
ensure that the measurement head is posi­tioned correctly on the patches.

• When using color bars with a patch height
higher than 4,5 mm, the measurement head
has to be placed with the measurement aper­ture at the bottom edge of the color bar.

• To carry out a spot measurement just
remove the measurement device from the
horizontal track, position it with the mea­surement head on a single measurement
patch and press the green measurement but­ton shortly. An acoustic signal confirms, that
the measurement is completed and the mea­surement data are displayed by the ExPresso
software in the window “Spot measurement”.

How to measure

Please ensure that the sample is located on a solid and flat surface. There must not
be a distance between the measurement head and the sample where light could pass
through, because this can influence the measurement. The color of the background
material underneath the measurement sample can have an influence on the measure­ment result. Different technical standards describe which backing material to use. In
the printing industry the following procedure is widely used: White backing for single
printed papers and black backing for double printed sheets in order to avoid that the
back printed side might shine through the paper and influence the measurement.

Page 14 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

Paper white calibration

A paper white calibration can be carried out by keeping the green button pressed for
a few seconds. The measurement aperture has to be on top of a non-printed area of
the sheet.

When SpectroDrive is on the track, the paper white calibration is performed by
software command (see p. 35).

Automatic turn off

When the device is not located at the left holder in the charging position and is
not in use, it will switch off automatically after two minutes. It can be reactivated by
pressing the green button on the device.

LED Indicator

The rectangular LED on top of the device will appear in different colors dependent
on the device status:

In home position the device is in contact with the charging station. During charging
the LED will be green and flashing. It will turn to a short-flashing green when
the battery is fully charged. Thanks to the charging management there will be no
overcharging of the battery.

Home position: Green (flashing)

Scan-Mode: Blue (+ multicolor)

Spot measurement: Magenta

Paper calibration: White

Error: Red (flashing)

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 15

3.2 Care and maintenance

SpectroDrive is a highly-precise optical instrument. It is designed to work in harsh,
industrial environments. However, it should be handled with care. Avoid mechanical
shocks, heat, dusty or humid environments!

Cleaning

The measurement head with the optical system is sealed against dust and dirt.
Nevertheless take care that the visible, open measurement aperture is always free of
dust. You can clean the measurement aperture with oil-free, clean compressed air and
a brush used for cleaning photographic equipment.

Clean the device casing only with a soft cloth and a non-aggressive plastic cleaner.
Never use alcohol or chemically aggressive solvent-based cleaners which can destroy
the surfaces.

The same procedure is valid for the white standard which is integrated in the charg­ing console. A soft cloth made of micro-fibers is especially well suited for cleaning the
white ceramic tile.

If the white standard should be defective, it has to be replaced completely.

The charging contacts at the device and on the charging console can be kept clean
with a cotton bud soaked in metal contact spray.

Please do not stick any labels at the bottom of the device. This could lead to faulty
measurements, because the defined distance – which is important for the correct
optical field of depth – might not be maintained.

Page 16 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

Error handling

• Should SpectroDrive do not work properly, first check, if the ExPresso software is

running correctly.

The status bar in the lower right corner will display, if the device, the module for
wireless data transmission and the USB-dongle communicate correctly with the PC.

It can be helpful to plug-off and re-connect the module for the wireless data trans­mission from the USB connection when problems occur.

Restarting the software ExPresso is also recommended to solve software problems.

• Check that the right measurement device is selected in the software settings.

If “SpectroDrive Simulator” is selected, no real measurements will be carried out.

• Check if the AC adapter is connected correctly to the mains plug and the charging

station. Check if SpectroDrive is charged (LED is flashing in green during charging and
short-flashing green when fully charged).

• If the device does not communicate with the software and does not work by press-

ing a button, but the LED is on, move it manually from the charging position. Now,
wait until it switches off automatically after two minutes. Then, turn it on again by
pressing the green button.

Warranty

The warranty for TECHKON products is 24 months starting with the date of pur­chase. The invoice is the certificate of warranty. The warranty is invalid if the damage
is caused by inadequate use of the device.

Should a TECHKON product do not work according to the specification, please
contact us before sending us the device. In most cases we can solve the problem over
the phone or via E-mail.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 17

Inspection intervals

TECHKON SpectroDrive is to a large extend maintenance free. Nevertheless we
recommend to validate the complete functionality of the devices in a 24
months time interval in the TECHKON service center. We offer a complete device
check as a service package. Please contact us for details.

For a flat fee the device will be cleaned, checked and recalibrated. In case a repair or
exchange of components should be necessary we will inform you. Please send the
device always securely in the carrying case with complete accessories.

How to change the battery

1. Open the SpectroDrive device.
A TORX™ T10 screwdriver was shipped
with the SpectroDrive unit. Use it to unscrew
the four screws as shown in the picture.

2. Disconnect the battery. To prevent dam­ages to the battery make sure to pull only
the plug, not the cable.

3. Remove the two screws and pull out the
bridge.

4. Change the battery. Please ensure that the
cable faces the mainboard.

5. Mount the bridge (see also 3.).

6. Mount the plastic housing using the four
screws (see also picture 1).

7. Make sure that the measurement head
moves freely between its stoppers.

1.

2.

3.

Page 18 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

How to change the lamp

1. Open the SpectroDrive device.
A TORX™ T10 screwdriver was shipped
with the SpectroDrive unit. Use it to unscrew
the four screws as shown in the picture.

2. Disconnect the battery from the main­board. To prevent damages to the battery
make sure only to pull the plug, not the cable.

3. Disconnect the lamp as shown in the
picture. Be sure to disconnect the black cable
only.

1.

2.

3.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 19

4. Unscrew the lamp.
A TORX™ T6 screwdriver is shipped with
the new lamp. There are four screws, two on
top and two at the round of it.

5. Change the lamp.
Pull it firmly to the side and make sure not to
tilt it, because it may jam.

6. Slide in the new lamp.
Move it completely to the end of the groove.

7. Reassemble the four screws to hold the
lamp in place as shown in picture 4).

8. Reconnect the plug of the lamp as shown
in picture 3. Make sure that the plug is not
wedged; it can only be mounted in one way.
IMPORTANT: It is necessary to clamp the
black cable between the mainboard and the
metal housing, as shown in picture 3. Other­wise it may rub against the plastic housing or
disturb the movements of the measurement
head.

9. Reconnect the battery. Make sure that the
plug is not wedged; it can only be mounted in
one way.

10. Mount the plastic housing using the four
screws as shown in picture 1.

11. Make sure that the measurement head
moves freely between its stoppers

12. Recalibrate the device on the white
calibration standard. Open the window at
“Settings  Measuring conditions  Mea­surement devices and press “Absolute White
Calibration” (see p. 34).

4.

5.

12.

Page 20 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

3.3 Software overview

The software ExPresso is clearly structured. The menu bar comprises the three sec­tions “Print job” (blue buttons), “Settings” (yellow buttons) and “Exit” (gray button).
The appropriate submenu layers follow this color system persistently.

Print job:

* ExPresso Pro only

P. 41

P. 42

P. 48

P. 57

P. 42 P. 43

P. 44 P. 46

P. 48 P. 51 (GrayGuide P. 52)

P. 53* P. 54*

P. 57* P. 58*

P. 60 P. 61

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 21

P. 62

P. 26

P. 31

P. 39

P. 26 P. 27

P. 29

P. 31 P. 33

P. 37 P. 38

P. 39

Settings:

Exit:

Page 22 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

By clicking on the device icon in the right section of the menu bar (1.), one gets a
direct access to important device settings. A window is displayed with the submenus
“Measurement device”, “Measurement settings”, “Export to other applications” and
“Update” (see p. 33 – 36).

Below the menu bar the program window (2.) is displayed which is activated by the
appropriate menu item.

The following example shows the program window “Density” after a measurement
was carried out. In this program window a click on the bar graph opens a second
window displaying detailed measurement data of the ink zones.

The command line (3.) of the active program window is located at the bottom of
the program window.

The bottom area of the screen is a status line (4.), showing at the right side the
connection status of the module for wireless data transmission, of the measurement
device (SpectroDrive, SpectroDrive Simulator or SpectroJet) and of the USB-dongle.
When moving the mouse pointer on the icons of one of these components, you get
additional information, e. g. the density- and colorimetric-settings of the device or the
software version.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 23

3.4 Software settings

When the software is started by a double click on the TECHKON ExPresso icon, the
software routine checks first, while displaying the intro icon, whether a measurement
device, a dongle and a module for wireless data transmission are connected.

If the software does not detect any measurement device, an information window
requests you to connect the measurement device to the PC or to select another
measurement device out of the settings menu. In the menu item “Settings  Measur­ing conditions  Measurement devices” there is also the option “SpectroDrive Simu­lator” to your disposal. Please keep in mind, that the simulator provides only virtual
measuring data for test- and demo-purposes.

Page 24 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

1.

2.

3.

If you have not defined any printing machine in the menu section “Settings  Printing
conditions  Presses” up to now, you will see the following info window:

You can set up a printing machine which fits to your print job, by clicking on the
“New” button in the menu item “Presses”. When it has been installed and saved, the
new printing machine appears in a listing in the right section of the menu, where it is
at hand if you wish to change the press settings later.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 25

Certain settings are done only once, after the software is installed or have to be
changed only occasionally when fundamental parameters have altered. For example
the menu language, the selection of the measurement device or the definition of a
new printing press will be set once and do not have to be set for each and every
print job to be carried out later.

This kind of settings is made by pushing one of the yellow “Settings” buttons (1.,
p. 24) and then selecting one button from the sublayer (2., p. 24). The referring win­dow opens (3., p. 24) and can be edited.

All settings which were made, can later be recalled when defining a “Print job”,
where the screen will appear in blue color.

When you start ExPresso, the sublayers “Make ready”, “Measure” and “Analyze” in
the section “Print job” are shaded an can not be activated until you have set up all
necessary informations concerning your printing- and measurement-conditions in the
“Settings”. Finally you have to click on the “Select” button in the “Print job” section
to define or select a print job. Now all menu items in the “Print job” section can be
used.

Page 26 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

The following settings can be made in the “Printing conditions” section:

Printing conditions – Presses

• Name: text box to define a name of the printing press

• Manufacturer: text box (not mandatory)

• Type: text box (not mandatory)

• Number of printing units: 1 – 6 for ExPresso Basic, 1 – 16 for ExPresso Pro

• Number of ink zones: max. 100

• Ink zone width: in mm, max. 100 mm

• Reversing after if the printing press has a reversing unit, the location

printing unit: can be set

You can set up new printing presses (see p. 24) and edit or delete the ones which are
already defined and listed in the right section of the “Presses” window.

Tip: By double clicking on one of the printing presses which are listed in the right
section of the main window you switch directly into the appropriate “Edit” window.
You find this possibility of quick editing in all of the “Print job”- and “Settings”-win­dows which contain such listings. The order of the listed elements can be changed by
clicking in the header of the register.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 27

1.

2.

Printing conditions – Inks

The list of inks included in the database is displayed. The four process colors C, M ,Y
and K (1.) are pre-installed. They are stored in the color book CMYK and are already
marked by a screen color. The four process colors can not be deleted or duplicated.

But it is possible to edit further inks and to import, duplicate and export them.

By using the “Export” function you can hand over individually edited inks and color
books easily to another printing machine.

The definition of new inks makes it possible to edit and measure customary spot
colors, for example the colors of a HKS color book.

• First click on the “New” button“ (2.), to open the window “Define new ink”.

Page 28 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

• Now enter an ink name (1.) for the spot color. Additionally the manufacturer (2.) can be

defined.

• You can choose an already existing color book for the new ink or generate a new one.

You edit a new color book by clicking on the button “Edit color books” (3.). In the window
which opens now you choose “New”, enter a name for the new color book and confirm the
process with “OK”.

• Choose “Maximum density“ (4.) for density channel for spot colors.

• Now click on the green button to activate the “Measure” function (5.), after you have placed

the measurement head of the device on the color patch you wish to measure. The procedure
will be carried out and the software adds a screen color to the new ink.

• Complete the definition of the spot color by pressing the “Save” button. The new ink appears

now in the ink list in the right section of the “Inks” menu.

Thus any customary spot colors or individual colors can be measured and added to
the ink listing.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 29

Printing conditions – Color bar

In this menu section the list of color bars included in the database is displayed. We
recommend the use of the TECHKON TCS print control strips, because their design
is based on ink zones and covers all relevant measurement patches. Other definitions
can be loaded by using the “Import” function.

But not only already existing color bars can be used and edited. You can also generate
your own printing definitions in ExPresso.

Please note that the used colors are only placeholders for the printed colors in the
print job.

When you click the “New” button in the “Color bar” menu, the window “New color
bar” opens.

• Edit the text boxes “Name”, “Manufacturer”, “Number of inks”, “Patch width” and “Ink zone

width”. Then click on the “Edit patches” button (1.).

1.

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The window “Edit color bar patches” opens, which is divided into the three sections
“Settings” (1.), “Color bar patches” (2.) and “Information” (3.).

• First define three percentage values for the dot percentage patches and three for the bal-

ance patch (4.), which both are listed in “Color bar patches”.

• In the section “Color bar patches” now successively compile your individual color bar by

clicking on the color bar patches. The color bar which you are creating is displayed in the lower
part of the window (5.).

• If you edited 8 in “Number of inks” in the previous “New color bar” window, now you have

the four process colors C, M, Y, K as well as 4 spot colors at your disposal. Each of these colors
is given as solid ink, dot percentage value and slur / doubling patches. The bottom line offers a
balance patch (BAL), the trapping patches (C+M, C+Y and M+Y), a calibration patch (CAL) and
an empty patch (NO).

• Accidentally set color bar patches can be marked directly in the color bar (by sliding over

them with the mouse button pressed) and then deleted by clicking on the “Delete selected
patches” button. To add patches later, you can set with a mouse click a marker in the color bar.
To the left of this marker the new patches will be filled in.

• Finally the “Save” button will save the currently generated color bar (6.) and it will be listed

automatically in the first place of the already existing color bars.

1. 2. 3.

6.

4.

5.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 31

The following settings can be made in the “Measuring conditions” section:

Measuring conditions – Target values / Tolerances

A list of data sets for target values and tolerances will be displayed. It is based on ISO
12467 color values for CMYK. Individual target and tolerance settings can be made as
well – also for spot colors.

• Click on the “New” button (1.) in the right menu section below the already listed target

values. A new window opens where you can enter the name of the new target set you want
to generate. Confirm the process with “OK”. The new target set will appear in the list of the
already defined target sets in the menu window (2.), but it does not yet contain colors.

1.

2.

Page 32 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

1.

2.

• Now click on the “New” button, which you find on the lower left side of the menu window.

The window “Target values / tolerances for ink” appears.

• Choose from the pull-down-menu the “Ink name” (1.) of a color, which you have already

defined in “Settings”  Printing conditions  Inks” (see p. 27).

• Additionally you can change the target values and tolerances of this color manually by editing

the text boxes or take the measurement data of SpectroDrive by pressing the “Measure” but­ton (2.).

• Confirm the color and eventually set changes with “OK”. Now the color appears in the left

section of the menu window and is added to the new target set.

• Thus proceed with all the colors which you want to add to a target set.

• Already existing target sets can be duplicated, renamed, imported and exported by using the

buttons in the lower right section of the “Target values / Tolerances” window (see picture on
p. 31). The target sets of the five paper classes can not be deleted.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 33

Measuring conditions – Measurement devices

The types of measurement devices which can be connected to the ExPresso soft­ware are shown. When you have chosen the type of device you wish to connect, an
information window is displayed at the left side of the window. Here you get further
information about the actual device and the connection status.

By clicking on the “Settings” button in the right lower corner, of the “Measurement
devices” menu, the window “TECHKON SpectroDrive” opens, which is divided into
four sections and offers basic settings options.

The “Measurement device” window shows all relevant information concerning the
connected device (1.). If there is more than one TECHKON measurement device
within the wireless coverage, you can choose the device you wish to use with “Find /
select device within wireless coverage” (2.).
If you changed the horizontal track, detect the system length (3.) and define the ori­entation of the measurement device (4.) by using the appropriate buttons in the right
section of the window.

3.

4.

1.

2.

Page 34 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

In “Measurement settings” the fundamental settings for density- (1.) and colorimetric­measurements (2.) are displayed.

The standard pre-settings for density measurement are

• for Europe: polarization filter on, white reference is paper white, density filter is

ISO E,

• for the USA: no polarization filter, white reference is absolute white, density filter is

status T.

You can use the “Density adjustment / Slope calibration” (3.) function, to adjust the
measurement device to the density measurement data of other devices.

• Select the window ”Density adjustment / Slope calibration” and follow the instructions.

First you have to carry out a paper white calibration on the paper patch of a calibration chart
(which is optionally available). Then the reference values of the calibration chart have to be en­tered into the text boxes of the process colors. Now the color patches (CMYK) of the calibra­tion chart have to be measured. A green checkmark confirms that the measurement was carried
out successfully. The new density adjustment is saved with “OK”. If the procedure is cancelled or
the “Reset slope values” function activated, the device will be reset into its factory-made state.

The pre-settings for colorimetric measurements are: polarization filter off, white ref­erence is absolute white, illuminant is D50, observer is 2° and DE formula is CIELAB.

1. 2.

4.

3.

5.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 35

One can choose other standards by clicking on the pull-down-menu if required.

The buttons “Paper white calibration” and “Absolute white calibration” (4. on p. 34)
start the corresponding calibration. The “Absolute white calibration” function is only
available when the device stands on the track in the “home position”. After a calibra­tion has been carried out properly, it will be confirmed by the information window.

TECHKON SpectroCheck (optionally available) is a color reference used to check
the measuring accuracy of the SpectroDrive device.
Connect SpectroCheck via the USB cable with the computer. Then place Spectro­Drive on the SpectroCheck console. Press the button “Start TECHKON Spectro­Check...” (5. on p. 34). The program will now lead step by step through the check
procedure of SpectroDrive. Green checkmarks confirm that the device conforms
with the technical specifications. A final report can be printed as well.

With this module you can measure wedges and other measurement patches aside
from the currently selected color bar and transmit the values into other applica­tions such as Microsoft Excel™. Just switch to your target application and start the
measurement at the device. The values are copied to the target application using the
clipboard.

Page 36 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

The button “Start device update“ (1.) establishes the connection to the hard disk
level of the PC and enables the choice of the directory, in which the update file is
located.

You can download the latest firmware for you device free of charge in the internet:
www.techkon.com  Service  Software  Folder: SpectroDrive / TECHKON Ex­Presso  TECHKON SpectroDrive Firmware 3.x. The firmware version of the con­nected SpectroDrive can be seen in the information window “Measurement device”.

There is no access to the settings windows described on page 33 – 36, when in
“Settings Measuring conditions  Measurement devices” SpectroDrive Simulator
is selected. The simulator is a virtual measurement device which can be used for tests
and demonstrations when no real hardware device is connected. The “SpectroDrive
Simulator” will also be used when no software protection key (dongle) is connected
and the software runs in demo mode.

Tip:

The device icon in the upper right corner of the screen shows you at a glance which
type of measurement device (SpectroDrive or SpectroJet) is currently connected.

1.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 37

Measuring conditions – Measurement export

After each measurement, the values can be exported to other applications.
The most popular export formats e. g. CSV (Microsoft Excel™) are already pre­installed (1.).

In the left section of the window further information about the target file and the
target folder are displayed (2.).

The button “Settings” (3.) opens a window headed by the name of the selected
export format. Here you can edit format specific settings. For example in “Digital
Information Export” you can choose between text- and the JDF-format.

For all export formats the option “Automatic export” (4.) can be activated.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Page 38 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

Measuring conditions – GrayGuide targets

If in “Settings  System / Software” the option Gracol G7™ was selected to be the
preferred Gray mode display (see picture p. 52), “Settings  Measuring conditions
 GrayGuide targets” opens now a menu window, which allows to adjust the target
values manually.

Gray patches as well as the automatic paper white can be edited. If required all values
can be reset to the G7™ defaults.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 39

The following settings can be made in the “System / Software” section:

The menu item is divided into the two sections “Information” (1.) and “Settings” (2.).

Information:
Displays the type of software (ExPresso Basic or Pro), the software version, the
dongle-ID and if extension modules are installed.

Settings:

• Touchscreen support: Must be active, when a touch-sensitive screen is connected,

to provide a virtual keyboard for the text input.

1. 2.

3.

Page 40 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

• Gray mode display: This selection defines, whether the analysis of the gray balance
shall be carried out densitometrically or according to Gracol G7™.

• Printer: Defines the connected printer for printing the report.

• Language: Sets the language.

The button “Database maintenance” (3. in picture p. 39) opens a new window, where
one can decide, after which period of time the print jobs will be archived (1.).

The option “Archive when exiting ExPresso” can also be selected (2.).

Furthermore older print jobs can be archived instantly by a push of a button and in
the same way already archived print jobs can be restored (3.).

The database is located on the hard disk of the PC in the ExPresso directory. When
“Generate database safety backup” (4.) is selected, the existing database will be saved
under a given name.

If required the stored database can be restored using the included restore tool (5.).
You have to quit ExPresso for this procedure and start it again after the database has
been restored. Restoring of the database leads to an overwriting of the recently saved
data in ExPresso.

1.

2.

3.

4. 5.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 41

3.5 Defining and running a print job

Before running a print job, certain selections have to be made. Everything related with
a “Print job” is indicated by the blue screen color.

ExPresso has an “autosave” function. Every “Print job” will be saved automatically. This
applies also for “Print jobs” which are not completed and will be resumed later.

Select

The list (1.) contains “Print jobs” which have been already made. A “Print job” can be
stopped at any time and resumed later.
An information box (2.) on the left side of the menu window shows at a glance the
most relevant informations: customer name, date and time stamp of the first and last
measurement, press, number of the measurements and the selected color bars (for
the top side as well as for the reverse side).

1.2.

3.

Page 42 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

The “Search for” function supports the fast research for already existing “Print jobs”.

Clicking in the “Edit” button (3. in picture p. 41) provides a direct access to the sub­menu “Print job  Make ready  Print job info”.

Tip: New print jobs similar to old print jobs, can be set up by duplicating. Thus time
is saved, because settings can be taken over.

By using the duplication function also OK-sheets can be taken over for repeated print
jobs.

Make ready

Certain selections have to be made, before the measurements can be started.

Make ready – Print job info

Textual information about the print job can be edited in “Print job info”.

The text entered in “Print job name” will be the title of the data set, which will be au­tomatically saved by ExPresso. It can be selected from the “Print job  Select” menu.
During measurements it will be shown in the lower left section of the status bar.

The section “Customer name” and a text box for detailed “Remarks” concerning the
print job can be used optionally.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 43

Make ready – Press / Inks

Select a press, which you have already defined in “Settings  Measuring conditions 
Presses” (see p. 24 and 26) and fill the printing units virtually with ink (1.).

An inking unit can be kept empty as well (2.).
For example, if a 6-color press is used only for CMYK-print, the last two printing
units can remain empty.

1.

2. 3.

Page 44 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

The picture on page 43 shows an 8-color press, with two empty printing units. Print­ing unit no. 7 contains the spot color HKS 17 K (3.), what can be seen at a glance by
the screen color and the color name on the printing unit.

Tip: The virtual filling of the press with ink is not necessary, when an already existing
print job with the same press configuration is selected in “Print job  Select” and
duplicated.

Make ready – Sheet / Color bar

As soon as the press is filled with ink choosing “Print job  Make ready  Press /
Inks”, the menu item “Sheet / Color bar” is unlocked and selectable.

1. On the left side of the window a “Color bar” can be selected, after having been defined or

pre-installed in “Settings  Printing conditions  Color bar” (see p. 29 f.).

1. 2.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 45

If a color bar is selected, whose ink zone width differs from the ink zone width of the
selected press, a warning is displayed.

If the selected color bar does not contain a paper white patch, a paper white calibration has to
be carried out manually, before the function “Scan color bar length” can be used.

The green arrow located left from “Scan color bar length” indicates that the color bar has to
be measured. By pressing the green measurement button (2. in picture p. 44), SpectroDrive
scans the printing sheet an sets the length of the color bar. The green arrow disappears, if a
color bar length has been scanned and captured successfully.

As a default, the color bar will be centrally aligned. Additionally the ink zone for the first mea­surement can be defined individually. Use the arrow buttons of the “Starts in ink zone” function
to define which ink zone of the press will correspond with the first zone of the color bar (1.).
The selected connection between the color bar and the ink zones of the printing press is also
shown graphically (2.).

If no color bar has been detected, an information window appears (3.) which reminds the user
to position the color bar accurately (see p. 12 f.) and to repeat the measurement.

If a printing press with a reversing unit has been defined, there will be a measurement section
for the top side as well as one for the reverse side. This provides the possibility to capture two
different color bars for top- and reverse-printing.

3.

1.

2.

4.

Page 46 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

1.

The button “Change plate assignment” (4. on p. 45) opens a new window, where the
assignment of a printing plate in regard to a printing unit can be defined individually.

A change of the plate assignment is always necessary, when the order of the inks has
been changed or if spot colors are used.

In the following example it has been necessary to assign the ink Magenta (1.) to the
spot color HKS 17 K in printing unit no. 7. Thus the color bar will feature a measure­ment patch at the right position, which guarantees a proper measurement and analyze
of the color bar.

Make ready – Target values / Tolerances

As the printing units have been filled with ink, now they are assigned with target and
tolerance values; preferably tolerance sets according to the printing standard ISO
12647 for the paper classes 1 – 5, which are already pre-installed.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 47

Besides the already pre-installed target sets for the five paper classes (1.), the list can
also contain individual target sets (2.), which have been already edited using “Settings
 Measuring conditions  Target values / Tolerances” (see p. 31 f.). The information
box on the left side of the menu window shows all colors which belong to a target
set and their target values.

Individual target values and admissible tolerances can be edited and measured for
each printing unit. When a target set has been confirmed, just click on the button
above the printing unit (3.). It changes into an “Edit” button, which opens the follow­ing window:

1.

3.

2.

Page 48 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

Measurement of a print job

Measure – Density

This screen will display all relevant information after a scan measurement. The scan
measurement can be started by pressing either the green measurement button on
the device or the “Start measurement” button in the left lower section of the screen.

1. Detailed information for every ink zone by pointing on the bar graph.

2. Measurement values out of tolerance will be marked with red top.

3. This section displays in detail the average values of the measurement parameters of the

single printing units.

1.

2.

3.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 49

Structure of the command line

On the basis of the command line of the menu section “Print job  Measure 
Density” all command options will be explained. The order and the availability of the
particular command options can vary in the different measurement menus, but they
have always the same effect.

1. The green button starts a measurement.

2. The white patch shows after each measurement automatically the number of this measure-

ment. Using the arrow buttons one can navigate through the already made measurements of a
print job.

3. Clicking on the button with the printer icon opens the connection to the printer, which has

been already defined in “Settings  System / Software”. The printer option allows to print out
the displayed window.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

The info section of the menu item
density measurement shows in detail the
following parameters:

1. Solid density

2. Printing contrast

3. Dot area 80 %

4. Dot area 40 %

5. Slur / doubling factor

In the measurement menus ”Colorimetric”
and “InkCheck” the relevant parameters for
these measurements are displayed.

Red, yellow and green dots, located ahead
of the average values, show fundamental
problems. Green dots indicate values within
the tolerance. Red dots show values out of
tolerance. Values close to the tolerance limit
(75 %) are marked by yellow dots.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Page 50 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

4. These buttons can optionally delete the current measurement or all measurements of a print

job.

5. The button “Mask ink zones” opens a window, where optionally single inks within the ink

zones or complete ink zones can be masked. Please note that the masked ink zones will not be
taken into account for the calculation of the report statistics.

6. “Export measurement” starts the export into another application (see p. 37).

7. “Set OK-sheet”, defines the OK-sheet, which is set instead of the target set.

When setting the OK-sheet, it will be numbered to the corresponding measurement and will
be displayed in the lower status line. Now the button switches to “Delete OK-Sheet” and
serves for this function.

8. “To top side” respectively “to reverse side” switches between top- and reverse-printing, if a

press with a reversing after a printing unit has been selected.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 51

Measure – Gray balance (densitometric)

When making a measurement on a gray balance patch, the referring density values
for the process colors (without K) are shown in a bar graph. The values for Cyan,
Magenta and Yellow should be in close range to each other to ensure a neutral gray
balance without a color hue.
It is important that the gray balance patch, on which the measurement is taken,
comprises the right %-values to achieve a neutral gray when printed correctly. The
process standard ISO 12647 for offset print defines the values as:
C = 50 %, M = 40 % and Y = 40 %.

The color bars TECHKON TCS Digital include a gray balance patch compliant with
ISO 12647 in every ink zone. The gray balance display will show densitometric gray
balance values for CMY in a bar graph.

At a glance there can be diagnosed, if the overprint of CMY is a neutral gray or if it
has a color cast (1.).

1.

Page 52 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

Measure – GrayGuide (according to Gracol G7™)

The GrayGuide function is a very useful feature when controlling a printing press
according to the Gracol G7™ method, which is especially common in the USA.
It requires the use of an appropriate color bar.

1. “G7™” has to be selected in the section “Gray mode display” in “Settings  System / Soft-

ware”, to make the GrayGuide function available in the menu bar.

In the following example the adjustment recommendation (1.) shows, that all of the
three inks CMY have to be increased to match the Gracol targets.

1.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 53

1.

2.

3.

Measure – Colorimetric (ExPresso Pro)

Thanks to the spectral performance of SpectroDrive it is possible to calculate and
display colorimetric values as well. Measurements in colorimetry modes have the
advantage of an absolute description of color based on characteristic values. So it is
possible to measure spot colors as well.

Colorimetric measurements refer in most cases to the most popular color system
in the printing industry: the CIE L*a*b* color space. The color distance DE describes
how close two colors match. A value of 0 means that two colors are identical.
It can be defined in the “Measurement settings” (see p. 34) according to which DE
formula the color distance is calculated by ExPresso.

1. Detailed information for every ink zone by pointing on the bar graph.

2. Average values for all ink zones.

3. Measurement values out of tolerance will be marked with red top.

Page 54 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

Measure – InkCheck (ExPresso Pro)

Densitometric values are a direct measure for the ink applied on the paper. They
are very process-related, although they are relative values only. Colorimetric values
as recommended in print standard ISO 12647 are absolute values, but they are not
suited to use them for handling the printing process.

Thanks to the spectral measurement technology of SpectroDrive, the very useful
“InkCheck” function combines the best of both worlds: Spectrally based recommen­dations how to set the ink keys as used from density in order to meet colorimetric
targets required for printing within ISO standards.

In this case there is too much yellow ink
applied in ink zone 7. In order to achieve a
lower DE, the density has to be reduced by
0,10 from D=1,42 to D=1,32. That reduces
DE from 3,8 to 1,78.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 55

Spot measurement

To carry out a spot measurements just position the SpectroDrive device with the
measurement head on a single measurement patch and press the green measurement
button shortly. An acoustic signal confirms, that the measurement is completed and
the measurement data are displayed by the ExPresso software in the window “Spot
measurement” in the submenu “Sample”.

All relevant density- and colorimetric-values are shown here very clearly and can
therefore be interpreted at a glance. The maximum density according to the wave
length is displayed as well.

In the menu “Spot measurement  Reference” (see p. 56) a reference can be select­ed for the measured color. This can be a second measurement or an already defined
ink (see p. 27).

The window “Spot measurement  Deviation D” (see p. 56) displays the deviation of
the measurement values of the sample to the selected reference. The densitometric
and colorimetric numerical values are supplemented by a graph.

Page 56 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 57

Analyze

The functions in the “Analyze” menu serve to analyze single measurements or com­plete series of measurements (print jobs).
“Single measurement report” and “Job report” are used in regard to individually
defined target sets and tolerances. “ISO-report single measurement” and “ISO job
report” include additionally the compliance with target sets and tolerances according
to the international standard for the printing process control ISO 12647.
The resulting evaluations of the different analyses can also be printed out in so called
reports.

Analyze – ISO-report single measurement (ExPresso Pro)

3.

2.

4. 7.5. 6.

1.

Page 58 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

“ISO-report single measurement” includes two sections: DE*

a*b*

-solid density and
dot gain. The dot gain is documented for 40 % and 80 % and the midtone spread is
visualized graphically.

1. Green dots indicate that the values are within tolerance

2. Display of the color gamut

3. Tonal % curves

4. Selection of measurement to be analyzed

5. Function “Mask ink zone” (see p. 50)

6. Switch between top side and reverse side (if available)

7. Prints reports

Analyze – ISO job report (ExPresso Pro)

The job report according to the ISO standard allows the documentation of the whole
printing process during the entire print job.
You can choose between a summary (1.) and the display of detailed reports of single
parameters, which you can select from the pull-down-window in the lower left cor­ner of the menu window.

1.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 59

Window: with detailed information “ISO job report” for DE and selected measure­ment no. 7:

A green dot indicates, that the measurement value meets the tolerance.

The example shows a red dot in the measurement series no. 9 (1.), which signalizes a measure­ment value which is out of tolerance. This is also indicated by the fact that the position of the
dot is far above the base line.

The variation within a sheet is described by a vertical line within the dot. The heavier the varia­tion, the longer the vertical line.

1.

Page 60 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

Using the button “Mask ink zones” in the lower part of the menu window (see p.

58) you will switch to the “Mask ink zones” function. Here you can define which
OK-sheet will be the starting point for the evaluation of the print job. Optionally a
measurement can be selected to serve as starting point. This function is available for
the top side as well as for the reverse side.

Analyze – Single measurement report

“Single measurement report” can be compared with “ISO-report single measure­ment”, but the evaluation does not refer to the ISO standard. Therefore the informa­tion sections “Solid density” and “Dot gain” refer only to individually defined target
sets and tolerances.
Up to eight colors can be displayed, e. g. CMYK and four spot colors.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive Page 61

Analyze – Job report

“Job report” is an evaluation of the whole print job in regard to the target values and
tolerances according to customer standards.

You can choose between a summary (see the picture below) and the display of single
parameters e. g. dot gain 40 %, dot gain 80 %, slur / doubling, contrast and DE (ExPresso
Pro only), which you select by clicking in the pull-down-menu in the lower left corner
of the menu window (1.) (see page 58 for further information).

1.

Page 62 Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 3 – How to use SpectroDrive

Exit

Just press the “Exit” button to quit the ExPresso application.

A window for confirmation will appear:

There is no need to actively save a “Print job” or settings made. Since ExPresso has
an “autosave” functionality, all data is securely stored already.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 4 – SpectroConnect Page 63

Chapter 4

How to use the Windows software SpectroConnect

4.1 Software description

The supplied Windows Software
SpectroConnect allows to transfer

measurement data to the PC and to
make device specific settings from the PC. The measurement values can be displayed
on the computer monitor. Color information is displayed, colors can be compared
and data can be exported into other software applications, e.g. Microsoft Excel™.

The software requires a computer with two free USB ports and a completely in­stalled Microsoft Windows XP, Vista or 7 operating system; 32- or 64-bit;
Minimum: IBM-compatible PC with Intel Core Duo processor or comparable proces­sor, 1 GB RAM.

4.2 Installation

It is important, to carry out the following steps in the right order, to make sure that
the USB device driver will be installed properly.

1. Make sure that the device is not connected to the PC.
Insert the SpectroConnect CD into the CD drive of the running computer.
You will find the CD at the back of this manual.

2. The installation routine will start automatically. Follow the steps of the installation,
until it is completed.

3. Now, after the installation was finished successfully you can connect the device
with the USB cable to the computer.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 4 – SpectroConnectPage 64

4.3 Overview

The application will be installed in the
Windows program files section in the
folder “TECHKON GmbH / TECHKON
SpectroConnect”.

After starting the program the main screen “Compare colors” will appear. It is divided
into four logical segments: On the left side you see the scan measurement settings
and already carried out spot and scan measurements of the connected device, in the
center the active program module, on the right side the color library which is stored
on the PC and in the section at the bottom a bar which lists all available and select­able program modules.

1. The menu bar includes functions known
from standard Windows applications. They
comprise: New, Open, Save, Print and Quit.

2. The window “Last spot measurements”
shows the last spot measurements carried
out.

3. The window “Last scan measurements”
shows the last scan measurements carried
out.

4. “Selected scan measurement”: the whole
information of a selected measurement will
be displayed in the middle of the screen (5.).

5. Window of the active program module.

6. This bar shows the list of available pro­gram modules. They can be selected from this
bar directly via mouse click and the applica­tion will appear in the middle of the display.

After launching SpectroConnect it is pre-set
to display the module “Compare colors”.

Software symbol
SpectroConnect

1.

2.

3.

5.

6.

4.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 4 – SpectroConnect Page 65

4.4 Software module “SpectroDrive settings”

In this module device specific settings can be made.

1. SpectroDrive: All settings concerning the SpectroDrive device can be carried out

with this software feature. It is very convenient for choosing density
and colorimetric settings and according references as well as scan
measurement settings.

2. Device update: New device software can be uploaded into the device.

In this program window you can also check the firmware version.

1. 2.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 4 – SpectroConnectPage 66

4.5 Device update

By the application of this module SpectroDrive can be loaded with a new internal
firmware which is selected by Device update.

The procedure is explained in the program window:

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 4 – SpectroConnect Page 67

4.6 Software module “Export”

Measurement data can be exported in any other Windows application e.g. Microsoft
Excel™, Word™ or other programs which can handle color data, e.g. a RIP calibra­tion software.

SpectroDrive works like the keyboard: Pressing the measurement button will place
the measurement value automatically at the location where the cursor is.

1. Here is defined, which data will be trans­mitted, how it will be formatted and what
type of spacing between the measurement
data will be. All the settings can be saved and
recalled later.

2. The Export window can also be used for
testing data transmissions.

This example shows the transfer of CMYK
density values.

1.

2.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 4 – SpectroConnectPage 68

4.7 Software module “ColorCatcher”

Based on a L*a*b*-measurement and referring to selected ICC profiles the program
module “ColorCatcher” displays the conversion into the color models L*C*h*,
RGB and CMYK. Furthermore an automatic search for the closest matching color
of a pre-set or self created color book is carried out. The lower part of the module
window informs you about the exact color deviations between the sample and the
recommended color of the color book.

1. Selected ICC profiles

2. Measured sample color

3. Calculation of L*a*b*-, RGB-, L*C*h*- and
CMYK values based on selected ICC profiles
for the current sample.

4. Shows the closest match to the current
sample out of the selected color book.

5. Calculation of L*a*b*-, RGB-, L*C*h*- and
CMYK values based on selected ICC profiles.

6. Self created color book

7. Colors from a color book

8. Variations and visible differences

9. Software module “ColorCatcher”

1.

2.

3.

4. 6.

7.

8.

5.

9.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 4 – SpectroConnect Page 69

4.8 Software module “PhotoLab”

TECHKON PhotoLab is a program module for evaluating and displaying L*a*b*

color data graphically. Selected measurements can be displayed and analyzed.

Furthermore, color values and complete
color books from the device memory or out
of the PC color library can be selected and
be moved by drag-and-drop with the mouse
pointer directly to the center of the display
where the L*a*b*-color circle is.
A pop-up window will ask, if the values
should be used as sample or as reference
values.

4. A mouse click on the program symbol
will start the plug-in PhotoLab within the
SpectroConnect environment.

1. In the upper section of the module win­dow, the color differences between sample
and reference are shown numerically.

2. Reference: viewfinder with tolerance circle
Sample: bold point
The current selected value is marked in
white.

3. Color samples and references are directly
imported into PhotoLab by making measure­ments with SpectroDrive having it connected
to the PC via the USB-cable

1.

2.

3.

4.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 4 – SpectroConnectPage 70

1. Masters and references can be selected
directly with a mouse click or by choosing
from the “pull-down” menu.

Delete and renaming is done via the menu.

2. Different modes of the L*a*b*-display can
be selected:

• The modes “Bargraph” and “Quality Cer­ tification Chart” show the trend of ∆L*-,
∆a*- and ∆b*-values of a measurement
series.

• The “Table View” shows all values numeri­ cally.

• In the “Job” window job relevant text data
can be edited.

3. A measurement value highlighted in red
indicates an out-of-tolerance sample.

4. The black circle line indicates the tole­rance limit of the ∆E*-region. If the black
pointer reaches into the outer segment of
the circle, the tolerance has been exceeded.

5. Enlarged view of the tolerance circle

6. Display of the color components ∆L*, ∆a*
and ∆b*.

1.

2. ...

3.

4.

5.

6.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 4 – SpectroConnect Page 71

1. General settings:
This is the window for setting the dimensions
of the L*a*b*-color circle and the ∆L*a*b*­color deviation.

2. Tolerances:
In this window the tolerances for the color
deviations are defined and the size of the
tolerance circle is set.

3. Mean values:
It can be appropriate to take several single
measurements on one sample which then are
averaged to an average value. The number of
measurements which result in the calcula­tion of the average value is defined in this
window..

PhotoLab settings

When you open the pop-up window “PhotoLab settings” in the menu bar of the
program module PhotoLab, you can select and edit three areas.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 4 – SpectroConnectPage 72

4.9 Software module “Media Wedge”

The program module “Media Wedge” serves the fast, colorimetric analysis of the
Ugra/Fogra media wedge. This digital control element is available from Fogra, the
German “Graphic Technology Research Association” (www.fogra.org). The test
element is placed at the border of a proof. The software evaluates the color quality
printed in colorimetric terms.

Color differences between the Fogra target values and the measured samples will be
clearly represented in the program module “Media Wedge”.

1. Selection of the media wedge version
(you will find the version number on the
printed test element)

2. Overview of information concerning the
print job

3. Selection of reference values

4. Overview of measurement results

5. Optionally a short protocol can be prin­ted on a self-adhesive label with a Dymo label
printer, which can be stuck on the proof, or
a detailed report of the measurement values
can be printed out.

5. 1.

3.

4.

2.

Manual TECHKON SpectroDrive Chapter 4 – SpectroConnect Page 73

1. After the import of the media wedge a short protocol will be generated and can be printed
on a self-adhesive label with a Dymo label printer.

1.

2.

2. The software supports also the Ugra/Fogra media wedge in version 3.0.

TECHKON

Specifications can be subject to change without notice.
All mentioned trademarks and copyrights are recognized.
SpectroPlate, SpectroDens, SpectroJet, SpectroDrive,
SpectroCheck, InkCheck and TECHKON are registered
trademarks of TECHKON GmbH.

Measurement technology

Spectral remission measurement and
color density determination to ISO 5-3/4

Measurement geometry

0/45° optics to DIN 5033

Spectral range

400 to 700 nm in 10 nm steps

Measurement aperture

1,5 mm, appropriate for measuring patches
with at least 3 mm height and 3 mm width
UV cut filter optional

Light source

Gas-filled lamp, type A illumination

Polarization filter

Twice linear crossed,
switched on and off per software command

Measurement time

Approximately 160 mm/s for 4 mm patches
(equals approximately 3 seconds for 520 mm
sheet length);
single measurement approx. 1 second
(if SpectroDrive is used as hand held device)

White reference

Absolute and relative,
absolute white standard integrated
in charging console

Illumination types / Standard Observer

A, C, D50, D65, F 2/7/11 / 2°, 10°

Density filter

DIN 16536, DIN 16536 NB,
ISO/ANSI T, ISO/ANSI I, ISO E,
spectral density Dmax

Density measurement range

0,00 D – 2,50 D

Dimensions

See page 8

Formats

52: for printed sheet 00 (B3+, 370 x 520 mm)
74: for printed sheet 0B (B2+, 520 x 740 mm)
102: for printed sheet 3B (B1+, 720 x 1020 mm)
105: for printed sheet 3B+ (B1+, 780 x 1050 mm)
Special formats (up to 2100 mm system length,
1800 mm scan length) on request

Repeatability

0,01 D; 0,03 CIE ∆E*a*b*

Inter-instrument agreement

0,01 D; 0,3 CIE ∆E*a*b*

Data transmission

WLAN-Module for wireless data transmission
with PC-sided USB connection

Power supply

Rechargeable NiMH battery,
regulated recharge via charging console with
AC adapter, 100 – 240 V, 47 – 63 Hz,
Part no.: FRIWO FW 75550/08

Weight

Measurement device: 820 grams

Contents

see page 9

Software TECHKON ExPresso

Delivery on CD with program protection key
(USB dongle) plus CD with TCS Digital,

System requirements: Microsoft Windows XP,
Vista or 7; 32- and 64-bit; Minimum: IBM-com­patible PC with Intel Core Duo processor or
comparable processor, 1 GB RAM, 2 USB-ports

Recommended touch-screen: Elotouch 1727L 17"

Accessories
Color reference SpectroCheck

Manufacturer certificate

applicable for ISO 9000 documentation

Device: Scan-Measurement System TECHKON SpectroDrive

Serial Number:

Manufacturer: TECHKON GmbH • Wiesbadener Str. 27 • D-61462 Königstein

Telephone: [phone] • Telefax: [phone]
[e-mail] • www.techkon.com

Certification: The device is compliant with R&TTE directive 1999/5/EC
concerning the electromagnetic compatibility EMC and
is provided with the CE label. The device is RoHS compliant
(class 9).

Certification
Standards: • EN 300 328

• EN 301 489-1/-17

• EN 60950

• EN 62311

Notice: This device complies with

• FCC Part 15.247 and FCC Part 15 B

• RSS-210 and ICES-003

• Japan Test for wireless LAN, (2004-03) Art. 2 Paragraph 19

• FCC: XF6-RS9110N1102

• IC: 8407A-91101102

Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Changes or modifications made to this equipment not expressly
approved by TECHKON GmbH may void the FCC authorization
to operate this equipment.

Note: The supplied AC adapter is according to regulations UL, IP 40,
IEC 950 and VDE EN-EC10. The device ist to be used only with
original TECHKON SpectroDrive AC Adapter, 7,5 V DC,
Part no.: FRIWO FW 75550/08.

Maintenance: The device is maintenance free. The measurement aperture
has to be kept clean from dust. It can be cleaned with clean,
compressed air and an optics brush.

We recommend a functionality check-up every 24 months at the
TECHKON service center, which includes the issue of a new
Manufacturer certificate.

Warranty: The warranty for TECHKON products is 24 months starting
with the date of purchase. The warranty is invalid if the damage
is caused by improper use of the device. Only original
TECHKON spare parts and accessories are to be used.

Recycling: The device is according to §14 ElektroG registered under the
EAP no.: DE 98280049. Devices for disposal can be sent directly
to the manufacturer.

Calibration: The integrated spectral sensor is calibrated by a white calibra-

tion. After performing a white calibration with the supplied
absolute white standard integrated in the charging console,
the device is long term stable. We recommend to make a white
calibration before every measurement series, to ensure the
device is calibrated correctly.

The remission values documented on back of the charging console
are derived from a ceramic white standard, which is referenced to
measurements taken and certified by the German Institute for
Material Testing (

Bundesanstalt für Materialprüfung, BAM).

Standards: The measurement device is manufactured according to the
recommendations of the technical standards DIN 5033 part 1-9,
CIE, DIN ISO 16 536 part 1+2 and ISO 5-3.

The accuracy of the device is checked during the manufacturing
by spectral measurements on color samples which were measu­ red and certified by the

German Institute for Material Testing

(

Bundesanstalt für Materialprüfung, BAM).

The calculation of colorimetric values is according to the
formulas and tables of DIN 6174, DIN 5033 part 1-9 and CIE.

The calculation of densitometric values is according to the
formulas and tables of DIN 16527 part 3, ISO 5-3 and the
handbook of standardization of the German Printing and Media
Industries Federation (Bundesverband Druck und Medien e.V.)
and Fogra (Forschungsgemeinschaft Druck e.V.).

Place Date Signature

D-61462 Königstein

EU-Konformitätserklärung

EC-Declaration of Conformity

Déclaration de Conformité de la CE

Dichiarazione di conformità CE

Hersteller: TECHKON GmbH

Manufacturer / constructeur / costruttore

Adresse: Wiesbadener Str. 27

Address / adresse / indirizzo D-61462 Königstein

erklärt, dass das Produkt:

Declares that the product / déclare, que le produit / si dichiara che il prodotto

Typ: SpectroDrive (WLAN Version)

Type / tipo

Verwendungszweck: Farbmessungen

Intended use / utilisation prévue / uso previsto Color measurements / mesure de la coleur /
misurazione del colore

bei bestimmungsgemäßer Verwendung den grundlegenden Anforderungen
gemäß Artikel 3 der R&TTE-Richtlinie 1999/5/EG entspricht und dass die
folgenden Normen angewandt wurden:

complies with the essential requirements of Article 3 of the R&TTE 1999/5/EC Directive, if used for its
intended use and that the following standards has been applied / répond aux exigences essentielles du
Article 3 de la directive R&TTE 1999/5/EC, prévu qu’il soit utilisé selon sa destination, et qu’il répond aux
standards suivants / soddisfa tutti i requisiti secondo l’art. 3 della direttiva R&TTE 1999/5/EC qualora venga
utilizzato per l’uso previsto e che le seguenti norme siano applicate

1. Gesundheit (Artikel 3.1.a der R&TTE-Richtlinie)

Health / santé / salute

angewendete Norm: EN 62311 1999/519/EC

applied standard / standard appliqué / Ausgabe 2008
norma applicata / édition pubblicato

2. Sicherheit (Artikel 3.1.a der R&TTE-Richtlinie)

Safety / sécurité électrique / sicurezza elettrica

angewendete Normen: IEC 60950-1:2005 (2. Edition)/

applied standards / standards appliqués / A1:2009
norme applicate / édition pubblicato

EN 60950-1:2006/A11:2009/
A1:2010/A12:2011

3. Elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit (Artikel 3.1.b der R&TTE-Richtlinie)

Electromagnetic compatibility / compatibilité electromagnétique / compatibilità elettromagnetica

angewendete Normen: ETSI EN 301 489-1 V1.8.1

applied standards / standards appliqués / Ausgabe: 2008-04
norme applicate / édition pubblicato

ETSI EN 301 489-17 V2.1.1
Ausgabe: 2009-05

4. Effiziente Nutzung des Funkfrequenzspektrums (Artikel 3.2 der
R&TTE-Richtlinie)

Efficient use of the radio frequency spectrum / efficacité du spectre radio / effettivo uso dello spettro radio

angewendete Norm: ETSI EN 300 328 V1.7.1

applied standard / standard appliqué / Ausgabe: 2006-10
norma applicata / édition pubblicato

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