Sheetfed Closed-Loop Color Control

“It’s Easier Than You Think!”

Is your closed-loop color control system showing it’s age or require expensive repairs? Any chance it was made by that “X” company? Upgrading to a new Techkon SpectroDrive can improve your productivity enough to cover the cost. Find out why KBA, Heidelberg, Manroland, Komori, RMGT, Sakurai, Goss, Akiyama and more are retrofitting their presses with Techkon press-side color measurement solutions. After reading about the advantages for sheet-fed offset presses, use the quick product comparison chart at the end to evaluate how Techkon can save you time and money over your current system.

Introducing SpectroDrive
The SpectroDrive is a press-side, automated, scanning solution for offset presses. It consists of a precision spectral measurement head and track that can be ordered in lengths up to 81 inches. The track is typically mounted directly onto the press console so sheets can be pulled from the press, positioned on the console, and then measured automatically with the touch of a button. Measurement times are extremely fast on this system with a 40-inch sheet taking less than 8 seconds. Once measured, solid ink density, TVI, deltaE, and more can be displayed to the press operator for each ink zone across the sheet. The system is capable of operating in both an “open-loop” mode where the operator then makes ink key adjustments manually OR in a “closed-loop” mode for automated press adjustments and maximum efficiency.



Save BIG with Techkon SpectroDrive!
Let me start with the 3 big reasons that grabbed the attention of the press manufacturers listed above and motivated them to switch from the “X” company product. Here is how Techkon SpectroDrive saves you money:

• • Color bar scanning and spot measurements The measurement head on SpectroDrive was purposely designed to be both an automated color bar scanner AND a handheld spot measurement device. The measurement head can be simply lifted up off the track and positioned anywhere on the press sheet for single spot color measurements. The spectral color engine delivers unbeatable measurement accuracy and consistency over time. It’s like 2 measurement devices in one, which (1) eliminates the need to buy a separate handheld device, (2) makes color readings fast and easy for the press operator, and (3) saves you some serious money.

• • Color bars can be anywhere on the sheet The SpectroDrive track is mounted onto rails on either side of the press sheet (rails not shown in photo above). With the click of button, this allows the track to slide up and down so it can be easily repositioned to measure color bars anywhere on your sheet. The system can measure color bars on the gripper side, tail side, or anywhere in-between to easily accommodate a wider range of jobs.

• • Lower cost of ownership The slick design of SpectroDrive and the included features simply save you money compared to “The Other Guys.” Every SpectroDrive includes features such as 100% LED lighting for maximum lifespan, integrated polarization filter for measuring wet ink, a small aperture to accommodate small color bars, and all future software updates are included to save you money.

I highlighted here just some of the most important differences and features in the SpectroDrive that have caused both press manufacturers and printers alike to make the switch to Techkon. A more detailed comparison matrix between SpectroDrive and the competition is below if you are interested. Thanks for reading and please let us know if you have any specific questions or would like to learn more about any of our products or services.

Quick Comparison of Closed-Loop Spectrophotometers

	Techkon SpectroDrive	Leading competitor
KEY FEATURES:
One instrument for both color bar & spot measurements  – Additional handheld instrument is not needed – Saves you money	√	X
Color bar can be positioned anywhere on the sheet – Can scan a color bar in the center of the page – Accommodates wider range of jobs	√	X
Track lengths up to 81 inches – Significantly less expensive than the other guys for wider press	√	X
Standard aperture size is 1.5mm – Supports small color bars without additional costs	√	X
Polarization Included – Minimizes variability from wet ink	√	X
Measurement Specifications:
ISO 13655 Measurement Conditions – Accommodates wider range of print applications	√	X
100% LED Illumination: No lamp replacement is necessary- lower cost of ownership	√	X
Other Considerations:
Software Upgrades Included – Saves you money	√	X
No vacuum system is required – Faster, less maintenance, easy to maintain	√	X
Wireless communication to host PC – Eliminates tangle and restriction of cables	√	X