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Simple and Advanced Workflows
RGB, CMYK, and PANTONE colors
Colors can be defined in several different color models, the most common being RGB,
CMYK, and the PANTONE color matching system. Each model requires a different
color conversion at the Fiery 3850C. Color conversion workflows for CMYK and
PANTONE colors are explained below.
• CMYK colors are device-dependent. In a proofing scenario, colors specified in
prepress applications are adjusted so the gamut of the Fiery 3850C printer can
simulate that of the press. In a short-run printing workflow, specifying CMYK
colors according to the calibrated printer output eliminates the need for simulation
during printing.
• PANTONE spot colors are special inks manufactured to run on an offset printing
press. Spot colors can be simulated using CMYK printer toners or process color inks.
Two basic workflows exist for printing PANTONE colors to the Fiery 3850C:
Spot Color Matching On instructs the Fiery 3850C to match the output of the
printer to the PANTONE spot color.
Spot Color Matching Off instructs the Fiery 3850C to match the printer output to a
PANTONE-specified process simulation. This CMYK combination is then printed
with the CMYK Simulation setting you choose, such as SWOP or DIC.
Desktop versus Fiery 3850C color management
A desktop color management system uses ICC profiles to convert colors from one
device gamut to the next (see Appendix B). The color data is converted when it is
passed from one application to another or when the job is sent to the printer, so the
processing occurs on your computer, as opposed to the Fiery 3850C.
One advantage of using ColorWise color management over desktop color management
is that your computer is spared added processing. Delaying color conversions until the
color data reaches the Fiery 3850C frees your computer so you can continue working,
and color conversions on the Fiery 3850C are, in most cases, much faster than similar
conversions on a host computer.
Managing most or all of your color on the Fiery 3850C can also eliminate the potential
for undesirable color management-related conflicts, such as iterative color conversions
and inconsistent color. The Fiery 3850C applies global corrections to specific groups of
RGB, CMYK, and PANTONE colors to avoid such conflicts.
