In this step, you can set the total ink limit. The TIL prevents over-inking
and optimizes the dynamic range of the printer.
It is recommended that you start by printing the
chart with the predefined total ink limit. The predefined total ink limit is based
on the sum of the full-tone ink limits, and also takes the pre-ink limits for each
ink channel into account. The predefined value is the maximum possible percentage of
ink. Be aware that for a printer with eight ink channels, the maximum TIL value is
800%.
Change the predefined value only if you are sure of the TIL for the specific combination of
printer, media, ink type, resolution, and color mode. For example, you can load an existing
calibration file to adjust the norm ink start, or to set a different target dot gain. As long as you
do not change the norm ink or light in full tone limits, you can modify an existing calibration
file, without having to create a new media profile.
- Click
Configuration.
The Chart configuration window is concerned with TIL chart
layout and patch size. Make settings that are appropriate for your printer, media size, and
measuring device.
Note: It is recommended that you use the predefined values to start with.
-
Click Print.
The default printed chart consists of rectangular patches with a hexagon in the middle
and a bleed mark in the top right-hand corner.
-
Review the printed chart to determine the best TIL value.
Choose viewing conditions that ensure a minimum of surface reflection. For example, hang the
chart at eye height inside a light booth or on a wall, and view the chart straight on.
-
Identify the row in which the most hexagons are visible. In most cases, this will be the CMYK
row or the CMY row.
-
Scan the row from left to right, and identify the first patch in which the color of the hexagon
is the same as the background color. For printing systems that are likely to cause printing
artifacts due to over-inking, such as textile printers or printers with solvent inks, check the
column of patches at each TIL to find the optimal value. Identify the first column of patches that
is free of artifacts.
The optimal TIL is approximately that of the selected patch, or column of patches.
For patches printed in larger step sizes (increments of between 15% and 20%), the optimal TIL
lies somewhere between the TIL of the selected patch and the TIL of the previous
patch.
-
Review the printed chart for sharp bleed marks.
The bleed marks should not show fuzziness or flooding.
-
Review the printed chart for even background color of patches.
The background color should not show intercolor bleed, mottling, fringing, or speckling.
