Dot Inspector

Simple Pre-Qualifier for plate setters.

This test form enables plate qualifying:

Process control (checker test)
Tone Reproduction Curve measurement for plate linearisation purpose

values on bottom represent real readings for 8 -bit data
Uniformity
Registration / repeatability accuracy

Additional tools required:

Check if it is possible to expose a plate on CtP without processing it. I f you can turn punching option off.

Next do as follows:

Select proper Dot Inspector (positive/negative and resolution related to plate setter's used in production)
In CtP RIP utility define minimal page size, enlarging area with no TVI compensation. Use this space to place ChromaChecker Dot Inspector test form. Ideally make an array e.g. 3x4 to control different areas of the plate: left/center/right and top/ center/bottom.
Use only one plate and expose it four times (CMYK) - but do not process it
Finally process it
Check if checker test pass -if not fix processor
Check plate uniformity - measure and compare 50% C in for location on the plate. If all measurement are on tolerance (+/- 1%) go to next step
Measure TRC in at least 3 different location - if no uniformity issue – average result for the plate linearization
Use magnifying glass or digital microscope (recommended) to visual judgement of repeatability / registration. If gaps appears inside crosses measure them for all location