Agfa Calibrator 4.

0
Introduction

This chapter introduces you to Agfa’s™ new Calibrator 4.0™ software and its
documentation.
The Essence of Calibration

This chapter provides general information that will allow you to decide how to use
Agfa Calibrator 4.0 in the most efficient way. You will learn more about Agfa’s “satellite”
approach and about the wide variety of work flows and equipment that Calibrator 4.0
supports.
This chapter will help you decide what is the best way to calibrate your output device.
Installation

This chapter assists you in installing Agfa Calibrator 4.0. If you have the required hardware
and software, installation is very easy.
Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0

This chapter guides you through Agfa Calibrator 4.0. Make sure you decided what is the
best way to calibrate your output device (see “Chapter 2, The Essence of Calibration”)
before you start calibrating.
Command Reference

This chapter is an alphabetical reference to all the elements that appear in the menu’s
and in the dialog boxes.
Appendix A — Text file

This section describes the file format for importing the measurements of the test page by
way of a text file.
Appendix B — Scanning a Test Page

This section describes how to scan a test page for importing the measurements of the test
page by way of a scanned TIFF file.
Appendix C — How Agfa Calibrator 4.0 Determines the Correct Calibration Curve

This section gives you detailed information on the calculation of the calibration curve.
This can be useful if you want to do complex calibrations with different output devices
in a chain.
Appendix D — Calibrate.EDF

This section describes how to use the adapted Calibrate.EDF file within AgfaSet 3.1.
Appendix E — Glossary

The Glossary explains a number of terms that are used in this user’s guide.

1
Trademarks
Adobe, Adobe Photoshop, PageMaker and PostScript are trademarks of Adobe Systems,
Incorporated which may be registered in some jurisdictions.
Agfa and the Agfa rhombus are registered trademarks and Agfa CristalRaster is a trademark of
Agfa-Gevaert AG.
Apple, LaserWriter and Macintosh are registered trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc.
Calibrator and FotoTune are trademarks of Agfa-Gevaert N.V.
FreeHand is a registered trademark of Macromedia, Inc.

Other products or company names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
holders.
All trademarks have been used in editorial fashion with no intention of infringement.

Copyright © 1995 Agfa-Gevaert N.V.

All software and hardware described in this document are subject to change without any notice.

Trademarks 2
License Agreement

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License Agreement 3
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License Agreement 4
General

1 Should you have any questions about this Agreement you may contact the Product
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Agfa-Gevaert N.V. at Septestraat 27, B-2640 Mortsel, Belgium.
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License Agreement 5
 Contents

1 Introduction ............................................................................................................................ 8
Preface.................................................................................................................................... 8
What’s New? ........................................................................................................................... 9
About This User’s Guide .......................................................................................................... 9

2 The Essence of Calibration.................................................................................................. 10

Agfa’s Satellite Approach....................................................................................................... 11
Calibrating Output Devices..................................................................................................... 12
Input ............................................................................................................................ 13
Calibrating.................................................................................................................... 13
Output.......................................................................................................................... 13
Conclusion ................................................................................................................... 15

3 Installation............................................................................................................................ 16
Hardware Requirements ........................................................................................................ 16
Software Requirements ......................................................................................................... 17
Installing Agfa Calibrator 4.0.................................................................................................. 17

4 Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0..................................................................................................... 18

Selecting the Printer .............................................................................................................. 19
Starting Agfa Calibrator 4.0.................................................................................................... 20
Calibrating a Black-and-White Printer or Imagesetter ............................................................. 21
Loading a PPD file ....................................................................................................... 21
Defining the Calibration Settings................................................................................... 23
Printing a Test Page..................................................................................................... 25
Measuring the Test Page............................................................................................. 26
Creating the Calibration Curve...................................................................................... 27
Saving the Calibration Curve ........................................................................................ 28
Calibrating an Imagesetter for Color Separations................................................................... 34
Loading a PPD File ...................................................................................................... 34
Defining the Calibration Settings................................................................................... 37
Printing a Test Page..................................................................................................... 39
Measuring the Test Page............................................................................................. 40
Creating the Calibration Curve...................................................................................... 41
Saving the Calibration Curve ........................................................................................ 42
Calibrating a Color Printer ...................................................................................................... 50
Defining the Calibration Settings................................................................................... 50
Printing a Test Page..................................................................................................... 52
Measuring the Test Page............................................................................................. 53
Creating the Calibration Curve...................................................................................... 54
Saving the Calibration Curve ........................................................................................ 55
Completing the Calibration Process ....................................................................................... 60

Contents 6
5 Command Reference............................................................................................................ 61
Calibration Setup................................................................................................................... 62
Device.......................................................................................................................... 62
Color ............................................................................................................................ 63
Load PPD .................................................................................................................... 64
Document.............................................................................................................................. 65
Calibration Data............................................................................................................ 66
Calibration Device......................................................................................................... 74
File Menu .............................................................................................................................. 74
New.............................................................................................................................. 74
Open............................................................................................................................ 74
Close............................................................................................................................ 74
Save ............................................................................................................................ 74
Save As ....................................................................................................................... 74
Revert .......................................................................................................................... 74
Page Setup.................................................................................................................. 74
Print ............................................................................................................................. 74
Quit.............................................................................................................................. 75
Edit Menu.............................................................................................................................. 75
Can’t Undo/Undo/Redo ................................................................................................ 75
Cut ............................................................................................................................... 75
Copy ............................................................................................................................ 75
Paste ........................................................................................................................... 75
Clear ............................................................................................................................ 75
Select All...................................................................................................................... 75
Show Clipboard............................................................................................................ 75
Calibrator Menu..................................................................................................................... 76
Graph........................................................................................................................... 76
Setup........................................................................................................................... 77
Density Settings ........................................................................................................... 77

Appendix A — Text file......................................................................................................... 79

Appendix B — Scanning a Test Page.................................................................................. 80

Appendix C — How Agfa Calibrator 4.0 Determines the Correct Calibration Curve ........... 81

Appendix D — Calibrate.EDF ............................................................................................... 89

Appendix E — Glossary....................................................................................................... 91

Index..................................................................................................................................... 94

Contents 7
Chapter 1 — Introduction

This chapter introduces you to Agfa’s™ new Calibrator 4.0™ software and its documentation.

Preface
What’s New?
About This User’s Guide

Preface
Agfa Calibrator 4.0 is a professional calibration package that linearizes your PostScript®
printing devices. Agfa Calibrator 4.0 compensates output from imagesetters, laser printers and
other printing devices against dot gain. You can also control tone rendering on imagesetters,
color printers and black-and-white printers.
The development of new technologies, the standardization of existing technologies and the
new way to use these technologies, have encouraged Agfa to create a new version of Agfa
Calibrator.
■ The appearance of PostScript Level 2 allowed for the use of PostScript “resources” such
as fonts, halftone screens, transfer functions, color rendering dictionaries, etc. This new
technology also opened the way for some major improvements in the PostScript
calibration process.
■ Thanks to the standardization and enhancement of PPD files (PostScript Printer
Description files), and the availability of PostScript Level 2 drivers that use these PPD files,
it became worthwhile to build applications that handle PostScript resources.
■ The availability of AgfaSet 3.1 PostScript Administrator’s Tool makes it possible to handle
PostScript Level 2 resources in an easy way.
AgfaSet 3.1, a resource-handling application, forms the core of Agfa’s “satellite” approach
to PostScript Level 2 resources.
Agfa Calibrator 4.0, a resource-creating application, is one of the “satellites”.
■ With the use of more sophisticated software and hardware, the demand for several
calibrations (screening-dependent calibrations, resolution-dependent calibrations,
separation-dependent calibration, etc.) increased.
■ Professionals also want to do more than just calibrate; they want to compensate for the
difference between two processes by calibrating to a goal curve to obtain equal results for
the two processes.
Although the new Agfa Calibrator 4.0 offers you many new possibilities, you will find that the
application is even easier to use than it was before.

Chapter 1 — Introduction 8
What’s New?

When comparing the new Agfa Calibrator 4.0 with older versions, you will note several
innovative changes:
■ the use of PostScript Level 2 resources (Transfer Resources and Halftone Linked Transfer
Resources),
■ the use of standard Macintosh® printer drivers (Apple® LaserWriter 8.x and Adobe™
PSPrinter 8.x),
■ the use of the new PPD file specifications (version 4.x),
■ the use of Engine Description Files (EDF), compatible with the AgfaSet 3.1 PostScript
Administrator’s Tool,
■ the use of dot percentages and densities,
■ the use of goal curves for calibration and linearization,
■ the use of TIFF files and text files to enter measurement data,
■ an easy-to-use interface.

About This User’s Guide

■ Chapter 2 “The Essence of Calibration”, helps you to decide how to use Agfa
Calibrator 4.0 with different devices.
■ Chapter 3, “Installation”, describes how to install Agfa Calibrator 4.0.
■ Chapter 4, “Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0”, guides you through the application.
■ Chapter 5, “Command Reference”, is an alphabetical reference to all the elements that
appear in the menu’s and in the dialog boxes.
■ Appendix A, “Text File”, describes the file format for importing the measurements of the
test page by way of a text file.
■ Appendix B, “Scanning a Test Page”, describes how to scan a test page for importing the
measurements of the test page by way of a scanned TIFF file.
■ Appendix C, “How Agfa Calibrator 4.0 Determines The Correct Calibration Curve”, gives
you detailed information on the calculation of the calibration curve. This can be useful if
you want to do complex calibrations with different output devices in a chain.
■ Appendix D, “Calibrate.EDF”, describes how to use the adapted Calibrate.EDF files within
AgfaSet 3.1.
■ The Glossary explains a number of terms that are used in this user’s guide.

Chapter 1 — Introduction 9
Chapter 2 — The Essence of Calibration

This chapter provides general information that will allow you to decide how to use Agfa
Calibrator 4.0 in the most efficient way.

Agfa’s Satellite Approach

Calibrating Output Devices
Input
Calibrating
Output
Conclusion

Chapter 2 — The Essence of Calibration 10

Agfa’s Satellite Approach

Agfa’s “satellite” approach consists of the development of one core application for the
management of PostScript Level 2 resources and a series of “satellite”-applications for creation
and editing of specific types of PostScript Level 2 resources. Agfa also provides ready-made
sets of resources.
AgfaSet 3.1 PostScript Administrator’s Tool, the core of this “satellite” approach, is a resource
management application that allows the administrator to install and control the output
environment from one workstation.
A PostScript RIP (Raster Image Processor) connects the output devices to the workstation.
Both the settings of the PostScript RIP and of the output device engine can be modified by
downloading PostScript Level 2 resources with AgfaSet 3.1.
AgfaSet 3.1 can download standard PostScript Level 2 resources like Font Resources or Form
Resources, and custom Agfa PostScript Level 2 resources like Transfer Resources and
Halftone Linked Transfer Resources.
Applications that let you create your own resources include Calibrator 4.0 (Transfer Resources
and Halftone Linked Transfer Resources), FotoTune 2.0 (Color Rendering Dictionaries) and
several third-party applications creating fonts, forms, etc.
Ready-made sets of resources include AgfaType (Font Resources), Agfa Balanced Screening
(Halftone Resources) and Agfa CristalRaster (Halftone Resources).

Halftone
Resources

Transfer Font
Resources Resources

Halftone Linked Color Rendering

Transfer Resources Resources

AgfaSet

PostScript RIP

Chapter 2 — The Essence of Calibration 11

Calibrating Output Devices

Agfa Calibrator 4.0 supports a wide variety of work flows and equipment. This chapter will help
you decide what is the best way to calibrate your output device.
Before you can start, you print the test page. The test page consists of a range of printed
blocks with increasing tonal values.
You enter the measured density values or dot percentages of the printed test page by typing
the values, importing a text file or importing a TIFF file.
Then you define the wanted density values or dot percentages. Normally, your goal will be to
linearize the output device.
Agfa Calibrator 4.0 automatically calculates the curve that has to be applied to obtain these
wanted values. The resulting calibration curve can be saved in different formats and applied to
future printing jobs.

Imported Tab-Delimited File

Typed Values Imported Tiff File

Calibrator

Halftone Linked Adobe Photoshop

Transfer Resource Transfer

Calibrated PPD Calibrated EDF

Transfer Resource

Chapter 2 — The Essence of Calibration 12

Input
Agfa Calibrator 4.0 offers you different options to enter the measured density values or dot
percentages of a test page. Choose the one that corresponds best to the level of accuracy that
you require.
■ Typed Values
If you use a traditional densitometer, measure each strip of printed blocks on the test
page and type the density value or dot percentage in the corresponding box.
■ Text File
If you use an electronic densitometer that saves the values in a text file, measure each
strip of printed blocks on the test page and import the text file. For more information, refer
to Appendix A, “Text file”.

■ Scanned Test Page

If you use a scanner, scan the test page, save it as a TIFF file, and import the TIFF file.
For more information, refer to Appendix B “Scanning a test page”.

Calibrating
Normally, your goal will be to linearize an output device. In some situations, you may want to
obtain a different result, e.g. if you want to compensate for the difference between two printing
processes. Agfa Calibrator 4.0 offers you different predefined goal curves for both situations.
You can also type the values or import a text file or a TIFF file.
On the basis of your input values and your desired values, Agfa Calibrator 4.0 calculates a
calibration curve that will assure you that you will always obtain the wanted density range.

Output
The resulting calibration curve can be applied to different file formats. Choose the one that
corresponds best to your situation and your work flow. The most preferred possibility is
presented first. If this is not possible in your situation or you have a special need, use one of
the others.
■ If you have a PostScript Level 2 RIP with Agfa’s PostScript Environment (PSE) 11.0 or
higher and AgfaSet 3.1, you can use the Halftone Linked Transfer Resource, the most
advanced solution.
■ If you have a PostScript Level 2 printer with AgfaSet 3.1 and LaserWriter 8.2 or higher,
you can use the Transfer Resource. It allows you to select a calibration curve for each job.

■ If you use applications that utilize the transfer curve information in a PPD file, you can
apply the calibration curve to the PPD file for your printer.

■ If you want to load the transfer curve into Adobe Photoshop™, save the calibration curve
as a Photoshop Transfer File.

■ If you want to create a new default curve for your PostScript Level 1 or Level 2 printer, add
the calibration curve to a list of transfer curves available in the Calibrate.EDF file and
download it with AgfaSet 3.1.

Chapter 2 — The Essence of Calibration 13

Halftone Linked Transfer Resource
Halftone Linked Transfer Resources are used with the Agfa Screenfilter of the Agfa PostScript
Environment on Agfa PostScript Level 2 RIPs. Creating a Halftone Linked Transfer Resource
enables you to calibrate for each Screening Mode, Resolution, Line Ruling, Spot Function, and
Angle combination. The mechanism allows you to calibrate with the utmost precision.
With Agfa Calibrator 4.0 you will generate a calibration file called a “Halftone Linked Transfer
Resource”. In the name of that file you will find a reference to the resolution, screen ruling,
screen angle, etc. This file must be installed on the Agfa PostScript RIP using AgfaSet 3.1. At
printing time, the RIP will automatically apply the correct transfer curve to the requested
halftone screen and will supersede any other supplied transfer curve, e.g. in a PPD file selected
by the user.
This method provides a consistent and safe calibration. It is not influenced by any other
supplied transfer curve. It will also automatically apply the corresponding transfer curve if a
different resolution or halftone screen is requested. You have full control to build a library of
transfer curves that are automatically applied to their linked halftone screens. Periodical fine-
tuning of transfer curves can easily be done by installing a new Halftone Linked Transfer
Resource for the specified halftone screen.

Transfer Resource
The Transfer Resource category is not part of the default Adobe PostScript language definition.
If your printer does not have a Transfer Resource category installed, use AgfaSet 3.1 to create
this category. If you don’t use PSE 11.0 or higher with your PostScript Level 2 printer, you will
have to recreate the category each time you reboot the RIP.
Transfer Resources can be used on any PostScript Level 2 printer in combination with AgfaSet
3.1. With Agfa Calibrator 4.0 you generate a calibration file called a “Transfer Resource”. This
file is installed on the printer using AgfaSet 3.1. Once loaded at the RIP, this Transfer Resource
can be set as the default, or can be used on a job-by-job basis.
To adapt the PPD files, download the TransferTools ProcSet Resource that you find in the
Calibrator folder to the ProcSet Category with AgfaSet 3.1. Then add references to all installed
Transfer Resources. These PPD files are installed on each computer that will print to the
device.
Using a PostScript printer driver that supports PPD setup, the user can select a corrected
transfer resource that is applied at print time (Print Options dialog box). Therefore it is
recommended that the resource name reflects the type of calibration, e.g.
MyTxFer.150lpi.glossy.neg.

PPD
PPD files, which are supplied by the printer manufacturer, can be “directly” calibrated by Agfa
Calibrator 4.0. Agfa Calibrator 4.0 is able to adapt the transfer curves for each of the screen
descriptions contained in the PPD file. Some applications like PageMaker 5.0, Separator 5.0.1
or FreeHand 4.0 apply the transfer curve information to the corresponding halftone screen.

Chapter 2 — The Essence of Calibration 14

Photoshop Transfer File
Adobe Photoshop allows you to save transfer curves and load them at the appropriate time.
Agfa Calibrator 4.0 is able to save transfer curves that can be loaded into Adobe Photoshop.
There are two ways to load a transfer curve in Photoshop:
Under File/Page Setup/Transfer…: the transfer curve is used at printing time or saved within
an EPS file.
The image file data is not changed.
Under Image/Adjust/Curves…: the transfer curve is applied to the image file data. This
use is not recommended, because the image file data is
changed. This implies that the effect is added eventually
to the effect of other elements.
NOTE: This method may be appropriate for use with non-
PostScript printers.
Although it is not recommended to include a transfer file within an EPS file, in some cases the
page layout will require you to do so (e.g. different halftone screens in a single job). If the
advanced system of Halftone Linked Transfer Resources cannot be used (e.g. on non-Agfa
and PostScript Level 1 printers), the use of Photoshop Transfer Files can be suggested.

EDF
An Engine Description File is a scriptable tool file for use with AgfaSet 3.1. Agfa Calibrator 4.0
can add a transfer curve to a list of transfer curves available in the Calibrate.EDF file. You open
the Calibrate.EDF file in AgfaSet 3.1 and select one of the available transfer curves to be
downloaded to the printer. This transfer curve is then used as the default transfer curve for all
subsequent jobs until the RIP is rebooted. This method can be used on both PostScript Level
1 and Level 2 printers.

Conclusion
If you know what type of input you will use (typed values, text file, TIFF file), what goal curve
you want and what type of output you want to generate (Halftone Linked Transfer Resource,
Transfer Resource, PPD file, Photoshop Transfer File, EDF), you are ready to use Agfa
Calibrator 4.0. Only consult the chapters that concern your type of device.
If you want to apply the calibration curve to different file formats, make sure to start from the
same situation and calibrate toward the same result.

CAUTION: If you want to use a PPD file and EDF simultaneously, the calibration effects will add up if you use
LaserWriter 7. With LaserWriter 8 the problem does not occur (the PPD file overrides the EDF).

If you want to know more about how the calibration curve is calculated, refer to
Appendix C “How Agfa Calibrator 4.0 Determines The Correct Calibration Curve”.

Chapter 2 — The Essence of Calibration 15

Chapter 3 — Installation

This chapter assists you in installing Agfa Calibrator 4.0.

Hardware Requirements
Software Requirements
Installing Agfa Calibrator 4.0

Hardware Requirements

You need a Macintosh that supports System 7, 4 MB of RAM and 2 MB Largest Unused Block
in About This Macintosh.

To measure the test page, you need a densitometer or a scanner (an Agfa scanner or any
other scanner) that can scan the test page for your device and save it as a TIFF file:
■ To measure a test page from a black-and-white printer, you need a black-and-white
reflective densitometer or a scanner that can scan black-and-white reflective originals.
■ To measure a test page from an imagesetter that produces black-and-white film, you
need a black-and-white transmissive densitometer or a scanner that can scan black-and-
white transparent originals.
■ To measure a test page from an imagesetter that produces black-and-white paper, you
need a black-and-white reflective densitometer or a scanner that can scan black-and-white
reflective originals.
■ To measure a test page from an imagesetter that produces color separations, you need
a black-and-white transmissive densitometer or a scanner that can scan black-and-white
transparent originals.
■ To measure a test page from a color printer, you need a color reflective densitometer or
a scanner that can scan color reflective originals.

Chapter 3 — Installation 16
Software Requirements

System 7.0 or higher is required to use Agfa Calibrator 4.0.

Installing Agfa Calibrator 4.0

The Agfa Calibrator 4.0 disk contains the Calibrator folder in which you will find the
Calibrator 4.0 application and a Calibrate.EDF file.
1. Lock the disk. Slide the tab toward the outer edge of the disk (revealing a small hole).
2. Make a back-up copy of the disk.
See the User’s Guide of your system for information on how to make copies of disks.
Keep the original disk in a safe place.
3. Insert the back-up disk in the disk drive of your Macintosh.
4. Copy the Calibrator Folder to your Macintosh.
The Calibrator Folder contains the Agfa Calibrator 4.0 application, a Calibrate.EDF file, and
TransferTools ProcSet Resource. The Calibrate.EDF file and the TransferTools ProcSet
Resource are for use with AgfaSet 3.1 only.

Chapter 3 — Installation 17
Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0

This chapter guides you through Agfa Calibrator 4.0.

Calibration enables a printer or imagesetter to compensate against dot gain (excess density).
This is also called “linearization”. It is important to linearize your printer to always obtain the
same results. A stable system helps in better color reproductions.
Agfa Calibrator 4.0 allows you to linearize black-and-white printers, imagesetters in their
different output modes, and color printers.
Before you begin the calibration process, you should verify that the DMax (Maximum Density)
of your output device is properly set.

CAUTION: Make sure that the maximum density level of your output device is properly set.

Maximum density settings that are too low will clear up the printed images, in those regions
where calibration would be necessary. However, it will also prohibit dark areas from being
reproduced dark enough.
Maximum density levels that are too high will blur the image in the very dark areas. Proper
calibration will not be possible.
Apart from changes in environmental conditions like temperature and humidity, changes in the
total density of your device often cause calibration curves to fail.
Refer to the user manuals of your printing devices to determine if the maximum density can be
changed, and what the appropriate settings for your device are. In some cases the intervention
of a service engineer may be necessary. Laser printers may or may not be adjustable with
hardware changes or screw settings; imagesetters may be adjusted using control panel
settings or tool files.
For color printers, density settings may differ from color to color.

Selecting the Printer

Starting Agfa Calibrator 4.0
Calibrating a Black-and-White Printer or Imagesetter
Calibrating an Imagesetter for Color Separations
Calibrating a Color Printer
Completing the Calibration Process

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 18

Selecting the Printer

1. Choose Chooser from the Apple () menu.

The Chooser dialog box appears.

2. Select the printer driver that you want to use, the AppleTalk zone in which the printer is
located and the printer that you want to calibrate.
3. Close the Chooser dialog box.
The printer that you selected will be used to print a test page.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 19

Starting Agfa Calibrator 4.0

1. Open Agfa Calibrator 4.0.

The Calibration Setup dialog box appears.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 20

Calibrating a Black-and-White Printer or Imagesetter

■ To calibrate a black-and-white printer or imagesetter, choose Black & White from the
Device pop-up menu.
You can load the appropriate PPD file to use the settings suggested by the manufacturer. You
can also type the settings for which you want to calibrate.

Loading a PPD file

You can use the settings that are suggested by the printer manufacturer as a starting point for
your calibration.
1. Click Load PPD.
An Open dialog box appears.

2. Select the appropriate PPD file.

Normally, the PPD files are stored in the Printer Descriptions folder in the Extensions folder
within the System Folder.
❖ Note: If you want to save the calibration curve as a Halftone Linked Transfer Resource,
select “For use with Halftone Linked Transfer Resources”. This can only be used with Agfa’s
PPD files delivered with PSE 11.0.
3. Click Open.
The screening information of the selected PPD file appears in the Calibration Setup dialog
box.
❖ Note: If more than one screen is available within the PPD, the first screen will be displayed.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 21

 If you did not select “For use with Halftone Linked Transfer Resources”, the Type pop-up
menu appears in the Calibration Setup dialog box.

If you did select “For use with Halftone Linked Transfer Resources”, the Ruling Map pop-
up menu appears in the Calibration Setup dialog box.

For more information about creating ruling maps, refer to the PSE documentation.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 22

Defining the Calibration Settings
1. Select the combination of screen frequency and resolution for which you want to calibrate
from the Type pop-up menu or the screening type from the Ruling Map menu.
The Type pop-up menu gives you the suggested combinations as they are listed in the
PPD file. For Black & White, select the combination that you use mostly. Because you can
save only one transfer curve for Black & White, this will be the one that is used for all
black-and-white output.
2. Choose the first element from the Color pop-up menu.
If you loaded a PPD file, the suggested settings for the element you choose will appear.
If you loaded a PPD file with “For use with Halftone Linked Transfer Resource” selected,
the Color pop-up menu will contain only one item. You will have to repeat the calibration
process for each angle.
If you want to enter the settings manually, type the screen frequency, angle, resolution
and choose the dot shape you wish to calibrate.
3. Click OK.
A new document appears.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 23

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 24
■ To apply a smoothing algorithm to the final calibration curve, select Smooth.
Smooth will transform the curve into a fluent line. If the resulting graph shows a steep
curve, check the values that you entered and the settings of your output device. The
steep curve can be the result of typing errors, values that are not monotonous rising, or
measurement errors. If the problem persists, the steep curve is probably caused by the
spline algorithm that is used to calculate the fluent line. Deselect Smooth to avoid the
problem. We recommend that you fill in as many values as possible to make sure that you
will still obtain the best possible result.
■ To measure negative output, select Negative.
If Negative is selected, the values in the column “Measured” have to be entered in reverse
order (e.g. a low stimulus value corresponds to a high measured value). If you use a
densitometer that reads negative values and converts the measurements to positive
values, do not select Negative.
❖ Note: The test page does not image as a negative. Negative should be set at the
RIP or Engine prior to printing a test page.
■ Choose the unit in which you want to enter the measured values.
To change the units from densities to dot percentages, the highest density is mapped to
100%; the lowest density is mapped to 0%. To change the units from dot percentages to
densities, the values are converted using the minimum and maximum density values
located in the “Densities” dialog box are used.
■ Choose the unit in which you want to enter the wanted values.
To change the units from densities to dot percentages, the highest density is mapped to
100%; the lowest density is mapped to 0%. To change the units from dot percentages to
densities, the values are converted using the minimum and maximum density values
located in the “Densities” dialog box are used.

Printing a Test Page

To calibrate a device, you first produce a test page. This test page allows you to define the
difference between the stimuli values and the produced result.
1. Fill in the Stimuli values.
The Stimuli values are printed on the test page. A normal linear distribution of the values
appears automatically. If you want to calibrate a specific area more precisely, you can
modify the values by typing new values or by using the pop-up menu. Make sure you
always have 21 values.
2. Click Test Page.
The Print dialog box appears.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 25

3. Set all the options as you normally do and click Print.
The test page will be printed on the printer that you selected in the Chooser. If you are
calibrating an imagesetter, develop the film as you would normally do. Try to imitate as
much as possible a “standard” job (use the same developer, for the same developing time
and temperature, etc.).

Measuring the Test Page

Once the test page is printed on paper or on film, there are different ways to enter the
measured density values into Agfa Calibrator 4.0.

If you use a mechanical densitometer

■ Measure each strip of printed blocks on the test page and type the value in the
corresponding box in the Measured column.

If you use an automatic densitometer that creates a text file

1. Measure each strip of printed blocks on the test page and save the results in a text file.
Make sure the file is in the appropriate format. Refer to Appendix A, “Text file”, for more
information.
2. Choose Import Text File from the Measured pop-up menu.
An Open dialog box appears.
3. Select the file.
4. Choose Densities or Dot % from the Import pop-up menu.
5. Click Open.
The values appear in the Measured column.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 26

If you use a scanner
1. Scan the test page and save it as a TIFF file.
Make sure that the image is scanned correctly.
Refer to Appendix B, “Scanning a Test Page”, for more information.

2. Choose Import Scanned Test Page from the Measured pop-up menu.
An Open dialog box appears.
3. Select the file.
4. Click Open.
The values appear in the Measured column.

Creating the Calibration Curve

When linearizing a device, the stimuli values are reproduced exactly. Therefore, the predefined
values for Stimuli and Wanted are set to “linear”.
Experienced users may want to go further and take into account the next steps in the printing
process, e.g. the press gain of the printing press. If you want to produce the same result with
different printing processes, you will also need a more complex calibration process. In either
case it is best to linearize your device, before going any further. For more information about
these advanced possibilities, consult Chapter 5, “Command Reference”, and
Appendix C, “How Agfa Calibrator 4.0 Determines The Correct Calibration Curve”.

1. Choose Linear from the Wanted pop-up menu.

2. Choose Graph from the Calibrator Menu to see the graphical representation of the
entered values.
The graph gives you valuable feedback to track possible problems with the entered values
or with the settings of your output device.
3. Click Verify.
The Print dialog box appears. Set all the options as you would normally do. Make sure
you use the same options as when printing the test page. Click Print to print the
verification page. The verification page will be printed on the printer that you selected in
the Chooser. The new calibration curve will be applied to the test page and the verification
page will be printed. If you are calibrating an imagesetter, develop the film as you would
normally do. Try to imitate as much as possible a “standard” job (use the same developer,
for the same developing time and temperature, etc.).
4. Measure the verification page.
This allows you to verify that the calibration curve based on the measured and wanted
values, produces a linear result. If you are satisfied with the result, you can continue. If
not, restart the procedure.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 27

Saving the Calibration Curve
Once you are satisfied with the calibration curve, you can save it.
1. Click Apply.
The Apply Setup dialog box appears.

2. Select the file format in which you want to save the calibration from the pop-up menu.
n If you have a PostScript Level 2 RIP with Agfa’s PostScript Environment (PSE) 11.0
or higher and AgfaSet 3.1, you can use the Halftone Linked Transfer Resource, the
most advanced solution. You can only use this if you selected “For use with Halftone
Linked Transfer resource” when you loaded the PPD.
n If you have a PostScript Level 2 printer with AgfaSet 3.1 and LaserWriter 8.2 or
higher, you can use the Transfer Resources. It allows you to select a calibration curve
for each job.
n If you use applications that utilize the transfer curve information in a PPD file, you can
apply the calibration curve to the PPD file for your printer.
n If you want to load the transfer curve into Adobe Photoshop, save the calibration
curve as a Photoshop Transfer File.
n If you want to create a new default curve for your PostScript Level 1 or Level 2
printer, add the calibration curve to a list of transfer curves available in the
Calibrate.EDF file and download it with AgfaSet 3.1.
3. Click OK.
The dialog that appears depends on the file format you selected.
Halftone Linked Transfer Resource
Transfer Resource
PPD File
Photoshop Transfer File
Calibrate.EDF

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 28

Halftone Linked Transfer Resource

1. Type the name of the Halftone Linked Transfer Resource.

This is the name of the Halftone Linked Transfer Resource as it will be saved on the
Macintosh disk. This name is limited to 31 characters. The proposed name consists of the
first 31 characters of the internal Halftone Linked Transfer Resource name. It is
recommended to name the file with as much calibration information as possible. The
internal name is the name as it will appear on the printer and is generated automatically.
2. Click Save.
The calibration curve is saved and the dialog box closes. Use AgfaSet 3.1 to download
the Halftone Linked Transfer Resource to the RIP.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 29

Transfer Resource

1. Type the name of the Transfer Resource.

This is the internal name of the Transfer Resource as it will appear on the printer. It is
recommended to name the file with as much calibration information as possible. It is not
allowed to include spaces in this name.
2. Click OK.
A Save As dialog box appears.

3. Type the name of the Transfer Resource.

This is the name of the Transfer Resource as it will be saved on the Macintosh disk. This
name is limited to 31 characters. The proposed name consists of the first 31 characters of
the internal transfer resource name. It is recommended to name the file with as much
calibration information as possible.
4. Click Save.
The calibration curve is saved and the dialog box closes. Use AgfaSet 3.1 to download
the Transfer Resource to the RIP.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 30

PPD File

1. Select the PPD file in which you want to save the calibration curve.
If you calibrated using an existing PPD file, you would normally select the same PPD file
again.
2. Click Open.
A Save As dialog box appears.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 31

3. Type the name of the adapted PPD file.
According to the PPD standards, a customized PPD file should be made by creating a
new file, making the adaptations, and referencing the original PPD. This results in a 2-file
PPD. However, this can generate some maintenance concerns, since 2 files must always
be manipulated (e.g., when moving or copying the customized PPD file).
The Merge PPD Files checkbox allows you to create 1-file customized PPD files. The
original PPD is then included, instead of referenced, in the customized one. This always
results in a single adapted PPD file which can be easily copied or moved.
Note however, that when new original manufacturer’s PPD files have to be installed, the 2-
file approach has an advantage, since there is no need to repeat the adaptation process.
With the single-file approach, the PPD customization must be redone.
4. Click Save.
The calibration curve is saved and the dialog box closes. Copy the adapted PPD file to all
Macintoshes that need it.

Photoshop Transfer File

1. Type the name of the Photoshop transfer curve.

It is recommended to name the file with as much calibration information as possible.
2. Click Save.
The calibration curve is saved and the dialog box closes. Copy the transfer curve to all
Macintoshes that need it.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 32

EDF

1. Select the EDF file in which you want to save the calibration curve.
2. Click Open.
The transfer curves already present in the EDF file are listed.

3. Type the name of the transfer curve.

It is recommended to name the file with as much calibration information as possible. You
can replace a transfer curve that is already present in the EDF file, by typing the same
name as the existing one.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 33

4. Click Apply.
The transfer curve is included in the EDF file and the dialog box closes. Use AgfaSet 3.1
to download the Calibrate.EDF file to the RIP. Refer to Appendix D “Calibrate.EDF” for
more information.

Calibrating an Imagesetter for Color Separations

■ To calibrate an imagesetter for color separations, choose Color Separations from the
Device pop-up menu.
❖ Note: Choose Composite Color for calibrating PostScript Level 2 devices that act like color
printers, e.g. in-RIP separations.
You can load the appropriate PPD file to use the settings suggested by the manufacturer. You
can also type the settings for which you want to calibrate. You should go through the
calibration procedure for each element in the Color pop-up menu, or for each angle if you
selected “For use with Halftone Linked Transfer Resource”.

Loading a PPD File

You can use the settings that are suggested by the printer manufacturer as a starting point for
your calibration.
1. Click Load PPD.
An Open dialog box appears.

2. Select the appropriate PPD file.

Normally, the PPD files are stored in the Printer Descriptions folder in the Extensions folder
within the System Folder.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 34

❖ Note: If you want to save the calibration curve as a Halftone Linked Transfer Resource,
select “For use with Halftone Linked Transfer Resource”. This can only be used with Agfa’s
PPD files.
3. Click Open.
The screening information of the selected PPD file appears in the Calibration Setup dialog
box.
❖ If more than one screen is available within the PPD, the first screen will be displayed.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 35

 If you did not select “For use with Halftone Linked Transfer Resources”, the Type pop-up
menu appears in the Calibration Setup dialog box.

If you did select “For use with Halftone Linked Transfer Resources”, the Ruling Map pop-
up menu appears in the Calibration Setup dialog box.

For more information about creating ruling maps, refer to the PSE documentation.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 36

Defining the Calibration Settings
1. Select the combination of screen frequency and resolution for which you want to calibrate
from the Type pop-up menu or the screening type from the Ruling Map menu.
The Type pop-up menu gives you the suggested combinations as they are listed in the
PPD file. For Color Separations, select the actual combination for which you want to
calibrate.
2. Choose the first element from the Color pop-up menu.
If you loaded a PPD file, the suggested settings for the element you choose will appear.
If you loaded a PPD file with “For use with Halftone Linked Transfer Resource” selected,
the Color pop-up menu will contain only one item. You will have to repeat the calibration
process for each item in the Color pop-up menu.
If you want to enter the settings manually, type the screen frequency, angle, resolution
and choose the dot shape you wish to calibrate.
3. Click OK.
A new document appears.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 37

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 38
■ To apply a smoothing algorithm to the final calibration curve, select Smooth.
Smooth will transform the curve into a fluent line. If the resulting graph shows a steep
curve, check the values that you entered and the settings of your output device. The
steep curve can be the result of typing errors, values that are not monotonous rising, or
measurement errors. If the problem persists, the steep curve is probably caused by the
spline algorithm that is used to calculate the fluent line. Deselect Smooth to avoid the
problem. We recommend that you fill in as many values as possible to make sure that you
will still obtain the best possible result.
■ To measure negative output, select Negative.
If Negative is selected, the values in the column “Measured” have to be entered in reverse
order (e.g. a low stimulus value corresponds to a high measured value). If you use a
densitometer that reads negative values and converts the measurements to positive
values, do not select Negative.
❖ Note: The test page does not image as a negative. Negative should be set at the
RIP or Engine prior to printing a test page.
■ Choose the unit in which you want to enter the measured values.
To change the units from densities to dot percentages, the highest density is mapped to
100%; the lowest density is mapped to 0%. To change the units from dot percentages to
densities, the values are converted using the minimum and maximum density values
located in the “Densities” dialog box are used.
■ Choose the unit in which you want to enter the wanted values.
To change the units from densities to dot percentages, the highest density is mapped to
100%; the lowest density is mapped to 0%. To change the units from dot percentages to
densities, the values are converted using the minimum and maximum density values
located in the “Densities” dialog box are used.

Printing a Test Page

To calibrate a device, you first produce a test page. This test page allows you to define the
difference between the stimuli values and the produced result.
1. Fill in the Stimuli values.
The Stimuli values are the values that will be printed on the test page. A normal linear
distribution of the values appears automatically. If you want to calibrate more precisely a
specific area, you can modify the values by typing new values or by using the pop-up
menu. Make sure you always have 21 values.
2. Click Test Page.
The Print dialog box appears.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 39

3. Set all the options as you normally do and click Print.
The test page will be printed on the printer that you selected in the Chooser. If you are
calibrating an imagesetter, develop the film as you would normally do. Try to imitate as
much as possible a “standard” job (use the same developer, for the same developing time
and temperature, etc.).

Measuring the Test Page

Once the test page is printed on paper or on film, you have different possibilities to enter the
measured density values into Agfa Calibrator 4.0.

If you use a mechanical densitometer

■ Measure each strip of printed blocks on the test page and type the value in the
corresponding box in the Measured column.

If you use an automatic densitometer that creates a text file

1. Measure each strip of printed blocks on the test page and save the results in a text file.
Make sure the file is in the appropriate format. Refer to Appendix A, “Text file”, for more
information.
2. Choose Import Text File from the Measured pop-up menu.
An Open dialog box appears.
3. Select the file.
4. Choose Densities or Dot % from the Import pop-up menu.
5. Click Open.
The values appear in the Measured column.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 40

If you use a scanner
1. Scan the test page and save it as a TIFF file.
Make sure that the image is scanned correctly.
Refer to Appendix B, “Scanning a Test Page”, for more information.

2. Choose Import Scanned Test Page from the Measured pop-up menu.
An Open dialog box appears.
3. Select the file.
4. Click Open.
The values appear in the Measured column.

Creating the Calibration Curve

When linearizing a device, the stimuli values are reproduced exactly. Therefore, the predefined
values for Stimuli and Wanted are set to “linear”.Experienced users may want to go further and
take into account the next steps in the printing process, e.g. the press gain of the printing
press. If you want to produce the same result with different printing processes, you will also
need a more complex calibration process. In either case it is best to linearize your device,
before going any further. For more information about these advanced possibilities, consult
Chapter 5, “Command Reference”, and
Appendix C, “How Agfa Calibrator Determines The Correct Calibration Curve”.

1. Choose Linear from the Wanted pop-up menu.

2. Choose Graph from the Calibrator Menu to see the graphical representation of the
entered values.
The graph gives you valuable feedback to track possible problems with the entered values
or with the settings of your output device.
3. Click Verify.
The Print dialog box appears. Set all the options as you would normally do. Make sure
you use the same options as when printing the test page. Click Print to print the
verification page. The verification page will be printed on the printer that you selected in
the Chooser. The new calibration curve will be applied to the test page and the verification
page will be printed. If you are calibrating an imagesetter, develop the film as you would
normally do. Try to imitate as much as possible a “standard” job (use the same developer,
for the same developing time and temperature, etc.).
4. Measure the verification page.
This allows you to verify that the calibration curve based on the measured and wanted
values, produces a linear result. If you are satisfied with the result, you can continue. If
not, restart the procedure.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 41

Saving the Calibration Curve
Once you are satisfied with the calibration curve, you can save it.
1. Click Apply.
The Apply Setup dialog box appears.

2. Select the file format in which you want to save the calibration from the pop-up menu.
n If you have a PostScript Level 2 RIP with Agfa’s PostScript Environment (PSE) 11.0
or higher and AgfaSet 3.1, you can use the Halftone Linked Transfer Resource, the
most advanced solution. You can only use this if you selected “For use with Halftone
Linked Transfer resource” when you loaded the PPD.
n If you have a PostScript Level 2 printer with AgfaSet 3.1 and LaserWriter 8.2 or
higher, you can use the Transfer Resources. It allows you to select a calibration curve
for each job.
n If you use applications that utilize the transfer curve information in a PPD file, you can
apply the calibration curve to the PPD file for your printer.
n If you want to load the transfer curve into Adobe Photoshop, save the calibration
curve as a Photoshop Transfer File.
n If you are calibrating for color separations, you will not be able to save the calibration
curve in an EDF file because the EDF can contain only one transfer curve for all
colors.
3. Click OK.
The dialog that appears depends on the file format you selected.
Halftone Linked Transfer Resource
Transfer Resource
PPD File
Photoshop Transfer File

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 42

Halftone Linked Transfer Resource

1. Type the name of the Halftone Linked Transfer Resource.

This is the name of the Halftone Linked Transfer Resource as it will be saved on the
Macintosh disk. This name is limited to 31 characters. The proposed name consists of the
first 31 characters of the internal Halftone Linked Transfer Resource name. It is
recommended to name the file with as much calibration information as possible. The
internal name is the name as it will appear on the printer and is generated automatically.
2. Click Save.
The calibration curve is saved and the dialog box closes. Repeat the calibration process
for the other items in the Color pop-up menu by choosing Setup from the Calibrator menu.
Each calibration curve is saved in a separate Halftone Linked Transfer Resource. Use
AgfaSet 3.1 to download the Halftone Linked Transfer Resource to the RIP.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 43

Transfer Resource
You can save the calibration curve in an existing Transfer Resource or create a new one. If you
are calibrating for the first color, you will create a new Transfer Resource. Afterwards you will
add the calibration curves for the other colors to an existing Transfer Resource.

Creating a new Transfer Resource

1. Select New Transfer Resource.

2. Type the name of the Transfer Resource.
This is the internal name of the Transfer Resource as it will appear on the printer. It is
recommended to name the file with as much calibration information as possible. It is not
allowed to include spaces in this name.
3. Click OK.
A Save As dialog box appears.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 44

4. Type the name of the Transfer Resource.
This is the name of the Transfer Resource as it will be saved on the Macintosh disk. This
name is limited to 31 characters. The proposed name consists of the first 31 characters of
the internal transfer resource name. It is recommended to name the file with as much
calibration information as possible.
5. Click Save.
The calibration curve is saved and the dialog box closes. Repeat the calibration process
for the other items in the Color pop-up menu by choosing New from the File menu. Use
AgfaSet 3.1 to download the Transfer Resource to the RIP.

Modifying an existing Transfer Resource

1. Select Existing Transfer Resource.

2. Select the transfer function that you want to modify.
3. Click OK.
An Open dialog box appears.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 45

9. Select the Transfer Resource that you want to modify.
10. Click Open.
The calibration curve is saved and the dialog box closes. Repeat the calibration process
for the other items in the Color pop-up menu by choosing New from the File menu. Use
AgfaSet 3.1 to download the Transfer Resource to the RIP.

PPD File

1. If you want to change the settings, choose the desired item from the Type pop-up menu
or the Color pop-up menu, or load a PPD.
You can apply the calibration curve to different PPD files, or to the same PPD for different
colors or different frequencies.
2. Click OK.
A Save As dialog box appears.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 46

3. Type the name of the adapted PPD file.
According to the PPD standards, a customized PPD file should be made by creating a
new file, making the adaptations, and referencing the original PPD. This results in a 2-file
PPD. However, this can generate some maintenance concerns, since 2 files must always
be manipulated (e.g., when moving or copying the customized PPD file).
The Merge PPD Files checkbox allows you to create 1-file customized PPD files. The
original PPD is then included, instead of referenced, in the customized one. This always
results in a single adapted PPD file which can be easily copied or moved.
Note however, that when new original manufacturer’s PPD files have to be installed, the 2-
file approach has an advantage, since there is no need to repeat the adaptation process.
With the single-file approach, the PPD customization must be redone.
4. Click Save.
The calibration curve is saved and the dialog box closes. Repeat the calibration process
for the other items in the Color pop-up menu by choosing New from the File menu. Copy
the adapted PPD file to all Macintoshes that need it.

Photoshop Transfer File

You can save the calibration curve in an existing Photoshop Transfer File or create a new one.
If you are calibrating for the first color, you will create a new Photoshop Transfer File. Afterwards
you will add the calibration curves for the other colors to an existing Photoshop Transfer File.

Creating a new Photoshop Transfer File

1. Select New Photoshop Transfer File.

2. Click OK.
A Save As dialog box appears.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 47

3. Type the name of the Photoshop Transfer File.
It is recommended to name the file with as much calibration information as possible.
4. Click Save.
The Photoshop Transfer File is saved and the dialog box closes. Repeat the calibration
process for the other items in the Color pop-up menu by choosing New from the File
menu. Copy the transfer curve to all Macintoshes that need it.

Modifying an existing Photoshop Transfer File

1. Select Existing Photoshop Transfer File.

2. Select the transfer function that you want to modify.
3. Click OK.
An Open dialog box appears.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 48

4. Select the Photoshop Transfer File that you want to modify.
5. Click Open.
The Photoshop Transfer File is modified and the dialog box closes. Repeat the calibration
process for the other items in the Color pop-up menu by choosing New from the File
menu. Copy the transfer curve to all Macintoshes that need it.

EDF
If you are calibrating for color separations, you will not be able to save the calibration curve in
an EDF file because the EDF can contain only one transfer curve for all colors.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 49

Calibrating a Color Printer

■ To calibrate a CMYK color printer, choose Composite Color from the Device pop-up menu.
❖ Note: Choose Composite Color also for calibrating PostScript Level 2 devices that act like
color printers, e.g. in-RIP separations.

Defining the Calibration Settings

You have to type the settings for which you want to calibrate for each color.
1. Choose the first element from the Color pop-up menu.
2. Type the Frequency, the Angle and the Resolution for which you want to calibrate.
3. Choose the Dot Shape for which you want to calibrate.
4. Repeat instruction 1 to 3 for each element in the Color pop-up menu.
5. Click OK.
A new document appears.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 50

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 51
■ To apply a smoothing algorithm to the final calibration curve, select Smooth.
Smooth will transform the curve into a fluent line. If the resulting graph shows a steep
curve, check the values that you entered and the settings of your output device. The
steep curve can be the result of typing errors, values that are not monotonous rising, or
measurement errors. If the problem persists, the steep curve is probably caused by the
spline algorithm that is used to calculate the fluent line. Deselect Smooth to avoid the
problem. We recommend that you fill in as many values as possible to make sure that you
will still obtain the best possible result.
■ To measure negative output, select Negative.
If Negative is selected, the values in the column “Measured” have to be entered in reverse
order (e.g. a low stimulus value corresponds to a high measured value). If you use a
densitometer that reads negative values and converts the measurements to positive
values, do not select Negative.
❖ Note: The test page does not image as a negative. Negative should be set at the
RIP or Engine prior to printing a test page.
■ Choose the unit in which you want to enter the measured values.
To change the units from densities to dot percentages, the highest density is mapped to
100%; the lowest density is mapped to 0%. To change the units from dot percentages to
densities, the values are converted using the minimum and maximum density values
located in the “Densities” dialog box are used.
■ Choose the unit in which you want to enter the wanted values.
To change the units from densities to dot percentages, the highest density is mapped to
100%; the lowest density is mapped to 0%. To change the units from dot percentages to
densities, the values are converted using the minimum and maximum density values
located in the “Densities” dialog box are used.

Printing a Test Page

To calibrate a device, you first produce a test page. This test page allows you to define the
difference between the stimuli values and the produced result.
1. Fill in the Stimuli values.
The Stimuli values are the values that will be printed on the test page. A normal linear
distribution of the values appears automatically. If you want to calibrate more precisely a
specific area, you can modify the values by typing new values or by using the pop-up
menu. Make sure you always have 21 values. The same values will be used for each
color.
2. Click Test Page.
The Print dialog box appears.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 52

3. Set all the options as you normally do and click Print.
The test page will be printed on the printer that you selected in the Chooser.

Measuring the Test Page

Once the test page is printed, you have different possibilities to enter the measured density
values into Agfa Calibrator 4.0.

If you use a mechanical densitometer

■ Measure each strip of printed blocks on the test page and type the value in the
corresponding box in the Measured column.
Fill in the values for each color. You choose the next color from the Color pop-up menu.

If you use an automatic densitometer that creates a text file

1. Measure each strip of printed blocks on the test page and save the results in a text file.
Make sure the file is in the appropriate format. Refer to Appendix A, “Text file”, for more
information.
2. Choose Import Text File from the Measured pop-up menu.
An Open dialog box appears.
3. Select the file.
4. Choose Densities or Dot % from the Import pop-up menu.
5. Click Open.
The values appear in the Measured column.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 53

If you use a scanner
1. Scan the test page and save it as a TIFF file.
Make sure that the image is scanned correctly.
Refer to Appendix B, “Scanning a Test Page”, for more information.

2. Choose Import Scanned Test Page from the Measured pop-up menu.
An Open dialog box appears.
3. Select the file.
4. Click Open.
The values appear in the Measured column.

Creating the Calibration Curve

When linearizing a device, the stimuli values are reproduced exactly. Therefore, the predefined
values for Stimuli and Wanted are set to “linear”.Experienced users may want to go further and
take into account the next steps in the printing process, e.g. the press gain of the printing
press. If you want to produce the same result with different printing processes, you will also
need a more complex calibration process. In either case it is best to linearize your device,
before going any further. For more information about these advanced possibilities, consult
Chapter 5, “Command Reference”, and
Appendix C, “How Agfa Calibrator 4.0 Determines The Correct Calibration Curve”.

1. Choose Linear from the Wanted pop-up menu.

Fill in the values for each color. You choose the next color from the Color pop-up menu.
2. Choose Graph from the Calibrator Menu to see the graphical representation of the
entered values.
The graph gives you valuable feedback to track possible problems with the entered values
or with the settings of your output device.
3. Click Verify.
The Print dialog box appears. Set all the options as you would normally do. Make sure
you use the same options as when printing the test page. Click Print to print the
verification page. The verification page will be printed on the printer that you selected in
the Chooser. The new calibration curve will be applied to the test page and the verification
page will be printed.
4. Measure the verification page.
This allows you to verify that the calibration curve based on the measured and wanted
values, produces a linear result. If you are satisfied with the result, you can continue. If
not, restart the procedure.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 54

Saving the Calibration Curve
Once you are satisfied with the calibration curve, you can save it.
1. Click Apply.
The Apply Setup dialog box appears.

2. Select the file format in which you want to save the calibration from the pop-up menu.
n If you are calibrating a color printer, you will not be able to save the calibration curve
in a Halftone Linked Transfer Resource because a Halftone Linked Transfer Resource
can contain only one transfer curve for the four colors.
n If you have a PostScript Level 2 printer with AgfaSet 3.1 and LaserWriter 8.2 or
higher, you can use the Transfer Resources. It allows you to select a calibration curve
for each job.
n If you use applications that utilize the transfer curve information in a PPD file, you can
apply the calibration curve to the PPD file for your printer.
n If you want to load the transfer curve into Adobe Photoshop, save the calibration
curve as a Photoshop Transfer File.
n If you want to create a new default curve for your PostScript Level 1 or Level 2
printer, add the calibration curve to a list of transfer curves available in the
Calibrate.EDF file and download it with AgfaSet 3.1.
3. Click OK.
The dialog that appears depends on the file format you selected.
Transfer Resource
PPD File
Photoshop Transfer File
Calibrate.EDF

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 55

Halftone Linked Transfer Resource
If you are calibrating a color printer, you will not be able to save the calibration curve in a
Halftone Linked Transfer Resource because a Halftone Linked Transfer Resource can contain
only one transfer curve for the four colors.

Transfer Resource

1. Type the name of the Transfer Resource.

This is the internal name of the Transfer Resource as it will appear on the printer. It is
recommended to name the file with as much calibration information as possible. It is not
allowed to include spaces in this name.
2. Click OK.
A Save As dialog box appears.

3. Type the name of the Transfer Resource.

This is the name of the Transfer Resource as it will be saved on the Macintosh disk. This
name is limited to 31 characters. The proposed name consists of the first 31 characters of
the internal transfer resource name. It is recommended to name the file with as much
calibration information as possible.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 56

4. Click Save.
The calibration curve is saved and the dialog box closes. Use AgfaSet 3.1 to download
the Transfer Resource to the RIP.

PPD File

1. Select the PPD file in which you want to save the calibration curve.
If you calibrated using an existing PPD file, you would normally select the same PPD file
again.
2. Click Open.
A Save As dialog box appears.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 57

3. Type the name of the adapted PPD file.
According to the PPD standards, a customized PPD file should be made by creating a
new file, making the adaptations, and referencing the original PPD. This results in a 2-file
PPD. However, this can generate some maintenance concerns, since 2 files must always
be manipulated (e.g., when moving or copying the customized PPD file).
The Merge PPD Files checkbox allows you to create 1-file customized PPD files. The
original PPD is then included, instead of referenced, in the customized one. This always
results in a single adapted PPD file which can be easily copied or moved.
Note however, that when new original manufacturer’s PPD files have to be installed, the 2-
file approach has an advantage, since there is no need to repeat the adaptation process.
With the single-file approach, the PPD customization must be redone.
4. Click Save.
The calibration curve is saved and the dialog box closes. Copy the adapted PPD file to all
Macintoshes that need it.

Photoshop Transfer File

1. Type the name of the Photoshop transfer curve.

It is recommended to name the file with as much calibration information as possible.
2. Click Save.
The calibration curve is saved and the dialog box closes. Copy the transfer curve to all
Macintoshes that need it.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 58

EDF

1. Select the EDF in which you want to save the calibration curve.
2. Click Open.
The transfer curves already present in the EDF file are listed.

3. Type the name of the transfer curve.

It is recommended to name the file with as much calibration information as possible. You
can replace a transfer curve that is already present in the EDF file, by typing the same
name as the existing one.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 59

4. Click Apply.
The transfer curve is included in the EDF file and the dialog box closes. Use AgfaSet 3.1
to download the Calibrate.EDF file to the RIP. Refer to Appendix D “Calibrate.EDF” for
more information.

Completing the Calibration Process

If you are calibrating a black-and-white device, the calibration is finished.

If you are calibrating a color separation device, and you did select “For use with Halftone
Linked Transfer Resource”, repeat the calibration process for the other items in the Color pop-
up menu by choosing Setup from the Calibrator menu. Each calibration curve is saved in a
separate Halftone Linked Transfer Resource.
In all other cases, repeat the calibration process for the other items in the Color pop-up menu
by choosing New from the File menu.
If you are calibrating a composite color device, you have entered the data for each item in
the Color pop-up menu already in the calibration document, so the calibration is finished now.

You can create a calibration curve for each resolution, screen frequency, dot shape, and paper
type that you use most often.

Chapter 4 — Using Agfa Calibrator 4.0 60

Chapter 5 — Command Reference

This chapter is an alphabetical reference to all the elements that appear in the menu’s and in
the dialog boxes.

Calibration Setup
Device
Color
Load PPD
Document
Calibration Data
Calibration Device
File Menu
New
Open
Close
Save
Save As
Revert
Page Setup
Print
Quit
Edit Menu
Can’t Undo/Undo/Redo
Cut
Copy
Paste
Clear
Select All
Show Clipboard
Calibrator Menu
Graph
Setup
Density Settings

Chapter 5 — Command Reference 61

Calibration Setup

When you open Agfa Calibrator 4.0 or you choose New from the File menu, the Calibration
Setup dialog box appears.

You first specify the output mode of the device that you want to calibrate. Depending on the
device type, certain options will be available.
Except for the device type, you can change these settings afterwards by choosing Setup from
the Calibrator menu. The Calibration Setup dialog box that appears does not contain the
Device pop-up menu.
For PostScript systems that support PPD files, a PPD file can be loaded. This allows you to
calibrate for the different entries described in it.

Device
■ Black & White
Black & White is used for black-and-white printers or imagesetters that are used for black-
and-white output on paper or on film.
■ Color Separations
Color Separations is used for imagesetters that produce separation films.
■ Composite Color
Composite Color is used for color printers that produce CMYK output on paper and for
PostScript Level 2 devices that act like color printers, e.g. in-rip separations.

Chapter 5 — Command Reference 62

Color
Define the settings for each element used in the Color pop-up menu.

Color
For black & white devices, the only available option is B&W.
For color separation devices, the available options are the 4 process inks (cyan, magenta,
yellow and black) and eventually a custom color.
For composite colors, the available options are the 4 process inks: cyan, magenta, yellow and
black.

Angle
Screen angle is the angle at which lines in a halftone screen are printed. For gray-scale
reproductions, an angle of 45° is common; for color reproductions, each CMY+K halftone has a
carefully chosen angle to avoid moiré.
If you load a PPD file, the angles will already be defined. You can overwrite these values.
Otherwise, you can type a value.

Frequency
Screen frequency is the spacing of the lines in a halftone image, usually measured in lines per
inch (lpi). Each line is composed of a number of halftone dots.
If you load a PPD file, the frequency will already be defined. You can overwrite these values.
Otherwise, you can type a value.

Resolution
Output resolution is a measure of fineness of spatial detail that a device can produce. The
higher the resolution, the finer the detail. The common resolution for laser printers ranges from
300 to 600 dpi; the common resolution for imagesetters ranges from 1200 to 3600 dpi.
If you load a PPD file, the resolution will already be defined. Otherwise, you can type a value.

Chapter 5 — Command Reference 63

Load PPD
If you click Load PPD, an Open dialog box appears.

Select the PPD file for the device you are calibrating and click Open to load the information of
the PPD file.
If you want to save the resulting calibration curve as a Halftone Linked Transfer Resource,
select “For use with Halftone Linked Transfer Resource”.
“Remember Folder” allows the application to remember the folder that contains the PostScript
Printer Description files. This folder can be located on your hard disk or on a disk in the network.

Chapter 5 — Command Reference 64

Document

If you click OK in the Calibration Setup dialog box, a new document appears.

Chapter 5 — Command Reference 65

Depending on the device selection in the Calibration Setup dialog box, one (B&W device, Color
Separations device) or four (Composite color device) calibration curves will be generated. A
“mini” spreadsheet allows easy entering of calibration data. Data entry units can be “dot
percentage” or “density values”.

Calibration Data
You can apply special operations to the values entered. You can choose the unit in which you
want to enter the data. The frequency and angle that you choose in the Calibration Setup
dialog box, appear above the actual values. To fill in the values, you can use the pop-up
menus above each column. You can print a test page, verify the calculated calibration curve
and, if you are satisfied with the result, apply the curve.

Values
You can influence the overall appearance of the values.

Smooth will transform the curve into a fluent line. If the resulting graph shows a steep curve,
check the values that you entered and the settings of your output device. The steep curve can
be the result of typing errors, values that are not monotonous rising, or measurement errors. If
the problem persists, the steep curve is probably caused by the spline algorithm that is used to
calculate the fluent line. Deselect Smooth to avoid the problem. We recommend that you fill in
as many values as possible to make sure that you will still obtain the best possible result.

Chapter 5 — Command Reference 66

Curve without smoothing

Chapter 5 — Command Reference 67

Curve with smoothing

Negative will invert the values. The values in the Measured and the Wanted columns should be
entered in descending order.

Chapter 5 — Command Reference 68

Unit
Select the units in which the measured and wanted values will be entered.

To change the units from densities to dot percentages, the highest density is mapped to
100%; the lowest density is mapped to 0%. To change the units from dot percentages to
densities, the values are converted using the minimum and maximum density values located in
the “Densities” dialog box are used. If you want to change the values, choose Density Settings
from the Calibrator menu.

Chapter 5 — Command Reference 69

Stimuli
The stimuli values are the dot percentages that will be printed on the test page. Normally, the
linear distribution of the default stimuli values will do. However, you can change the stimuli
values. Some devices need more calibration points in the highlights while others have specific
problems in the shadows. With the editable stimuli values you are free to use more entries in
the device critical exposure area. You can type the 21 values or choose a predefined
distribution from the pop-up menu. You can apply the predefined distribution to the full range
of 21 values by choosing “Spread Full Range”. You can apply the predefined distribution only
to specific values by first selecting those cells in the Stimuli column and than choosing “Spread
Selection”.

Measured
You do not have to fill in all 21 values; only the values for 0 and 100 are required. In some
cases, you will only fill in the relevant values. The more values are entered, the better the
calculated calibration curve will reflect the measured deviation.
If you use a mechanical densitometer to measure the test page, you will have to type the
values. You can also use the pop-up menu to import the values from a TIFF file or a text file.

■ Stimuli Values
If the measured values closely resemble the stimuli values, choose Stimuli Values and
manually adapt the values that differ.
■ Clear Array
Clears the column of the measured values.
■ Import Scanned Test Page
An Open dialog box appears. Select the TIFF file that contains the scanned test page. For
more information, refer to Appendix B, “Scanning a test page”.

■ Import Text File

An Open dialog box appears. Select the text file that contains the measured values from
an electronic densitometer. You will find an example of a text file in Appendix A, “Text file”.

Chapter 5 — Command Reference 70

Wanted
You have to fill in the wanted values for the test page. You do not have to fill in all 21 values;
only the values for 0 and 100 are required. In some cases, you will only fill in the relevant
values. Normally, you will want to obtain a linear distribution of the wanted values. However, if
you want to obtain a special distribution (e.g. adjust measured values for press gain), you can
type the wanted values or use the pop-up menu.

■ Import Scanned Test Page

An Open dialog box appears. Select the TIFF file that contains the scanned test page.
This will be most useful if you want to compensate for the difference between two
processes and you have scanned a test page that has been printed on the device toward
which you want to calibrate.
For more information, refer to Appendix B, “Scanning a test page”.

■ Import Text File

An Open dialog box appears. Select the text file that contains the measured values from
an electronic densitometer. You will find an example of a text file in Appendix A, “Text file”.

■ Linear
To linearize your printing device, choose Linear from the pop-up menu.
■ Specify dot gain
You can specify the dot gain, also known as press gain. This will be useful if you want to
calibrate toward a printing process for which you know the dot gain.
■ Flip
In some cases it is impossible to measure the wanted curve or goal curve. Only the
deviation from the desired result is measurable. These measured error values can still be
used as input in the “Wanted” values column. In order to turn these values into real
wanted values, flip the measured curve around the diagonal by selecting “Flip” from the
pop-up menu. For more information, refer to
Appendix C “How Agfa Calibrator 4.0 Determines The Correct Calibration Curve”.

Chapter 5 — Command Reference 71

Test Page
If you click Test Page, the Print dialog box appears.

Set all the options as you would normally do. Click Print to print the test page on the printer
selected in the Chooser. If you are calibrating an imagesetter, develop the film as you would
normally do. Try to imitate as much as possible a “standard” job (use the same developer, for
the same developing time and temperature, etc.).

Verify
Verify prints the test page again while applying the calculated calibration curve. This allows you
to verify that the calibration curve based on the measured and wanted values, produces a
good result.
If you click Verify, the Print dialog box appears. Set all the options as you would normally do.
Make sure you use the same options as when printing the test page. Click Print to print the
verification page.
The verification page will be printed on the printer that you selected in the Chooser. If you are
calibrating an imagesetter, develop the film as you would normally do. Try to imitate as much
as possible a “standard” job (use the same developer, for the same developing time and
temperature, etc.).

Chapter 5 — Command Reference 72

Apply
After entering all the values and verifying the result, you can use the Apply button to generate
the selected output file containing the transfer information. The Apply Setup dialog box
appears.

In the pop-up menu, you find different options:

Depending on the settings you chose in the Calibration Setup dialog box, all or only some of
the options will be available.
■ If you have a PostScript Level 2 RIP with Agfa’s PostScript Environment (PSE) 11.0 or
higher and AgfaSet 3.1, you can use the Halftone Linked Transfer Resource, the most
advanced solution. You can only use this if you selected “For use with Halftone Linked
Transfer resource” when you loaded the PPD.
■ If you have a PostScript Level 2 printer with AgfaSet 3.1 and LaserWriter 8.2 or higher,
you can use the Transfer Resources. It allows you to select a calibration curve for each
job.
■ If you use applications that utilize the transfer curve information in a PPD file, you can
apply the calibration curve to the PPD file for your printer.
■ If you want to load the transfer curve into Adobe Photoshop, save the calibration curve as
a Photoshop Transfer File.
■ If you want to create a new default curve for your PostScript Level 1 or Level 2 printer, add
the calibration curve to a list of transfer curves available in the Calibrate.EDF file and
download it with AgfaSet 3.1.
If you choose the option that you prefer and you click OK, the result will depend on the type of
device you are calibrating and the options you set before. Refer to Chapter 4, “Using Agfa
Calibrator 4.0”, for more detailed information.

Chapter 5 — Command Reference 73

Calibration Device
You can see which device type you selected in the Calibration Setup dialog box and which
printer driver you selected in the Chooser.

File Menu

The File menu contains the standard Macintosh options.

New
Starts a new calibration. Use this option the first time you calibrate a device.

Open
Opens an existing calibration document. Use this option for a device that has been calibrated
before. You can re-apply an existing calibration or modify it.

Close
Closes the open calibration document.

Save
Saves the open calibration document.

Save As
Opens the Save As dialog box to save the open calibration document under a different name.

Revert
Reverts the open calibration document to the last saved version.

Page Setup
Opens the standard Page Setup dialog box.

Print
Prints the information that is displayed on your monitor. Use it to print the graph of the values
and the resulting calibration curve.

Chapter 5 — Command Reference 74

Quit
Quits the application.

Edit Menu

The Edit menu contains the standard Macintosh options.

Can’t Undo/Undo/Redo
If you want to return to the state of the text before you took the last action, you can Undo the
action. If you change your mind again, you can Redo the action. In some cases the return is
impossible.

Cut
Removes the selected text. The text will remain on the clipboard, available for other actions
such as Paste.

Copy
Copies the selected text. The text will remain on the clipboard, available for other actions such
as Paste.

Paste
Places the text on the clipboard at the selected destination.

Clear
Removes the selected text. The text will not be available for other actions, because Clear does
not place the text on the clipboard.

Select All
Selects the whole text.

Show Clipboard
This function gives you a view of everything you did put on the Clipboard with the last edit
action.

Chapter 5 — Command Reference 75

Calibrator Menu

The Calibrator Menu contains some very specific options that can help you to adapt or monitor
the calibration process.

Graph
If you choose one of the Graph suboptions, a graphical representation of the entered values
will appear.

The graph gives you valuable feedback in order to track specific interpolation algorithm
deficiencies (spline oscillations) that might occur when exotic (non monotonously rising)
calibration data is entered and Smooth is selected.
If the resulting graph shows a steep curve, check the values that you entered and the settings
of your output device. The steep curve can be the result of typing errors, values that are not
monotonous rising, or measurement errors. If the problem persists, the steep curve is probably
caused by the spline algorithm that is used to calculate the fluent line. Deselect Smooth to
avoid the problem. We recommend that you fill in as many values as possible to make sure
that you will still obtain the best possible result.
If no curve is displayed, check the values that you entered.
Error messages displayed under the curve will help you to determine the cause of the problem.

Chapter 5 — Command Reference 76

Setup
If you choose Setup from the Calibrator menu, the Calibration Setup dialog box appears. Use
this option when calibrating a color separation device to calibrate the remaining angles. Notice
that the Device pop-up menu is not available. You can also use the Calibration Setup dialog
box to display the current settings.

For more information about the options in the dialog box, refer to the Calibration Setup dialog
box earlier in this chapter (section 5.1).

Density Settings
If you choose Density Settings from the Calibrator menu, the Densities dialog box appears.

The values that you enter will be used when you select another density unit in the document.

Chapter 5 — Command Reference 77

To make the conversion from Dot% to Densities, the Maximum Density is used. The default
value is 4.0D. If your maximum density differs from 4.0, an adapted value will result in more
accurate results.
To make the conversion from Densities to Dot%, the highest density is mapped to 100%.

Chapter 5 — Command Reference 78

Appendix A — Text file

If your densitometer generates a text file, verify that the format corresponds to the example
below for composite color:

Attention: The order in which the values have to be entered is K, C, M, and Y.

If your densitometer generates a text file, verify that the format corresponds to the example
below for black-and-white printers or imagesetter and for color separations:

Appendix A — Text file 79

Appendix B — Scanning a Test Page
Use the following procedure as a guideline for scanning the test page of Agfa Calibrator 4.0.
Scanning the test page can be seen as a job separate from calibrating the printer. You can
scan and process the test page with any scanner driver or image editing application. The
scanned image is saved in TIFF format, which is used as input for Agfa Calibrator 4.0.
The scanning guidelines are general. Some of the entry points may not apply to your
scanner/driver configuration. Please refer to your scanning documentation in order to achieve
good results.
1. Print the test page from within the Agfa Calibrator application.
2. Position the test page on the scanner.
It is recommended to position the original aligned with the axis of the scanner to avoid
rotated results.
3. Preview the scanning area.
4. Select the area with the gray patches that is surrounded with a cropping area indication on
the test page.
The crossing vertical and horizontal lines define the reference area. You may want to
select an area that is slightly bigger than the indicated cropping area. This probably allows
more accurate cropping afterwards in your image editing application.
5. Set the scan settings.
To scan the test page, use scanner settings that simulate a normal scanning job. Try to
achieve results where the black patch results in 100% (or DMax) and the white patch
results in 0% image data. If possible, use the automatic density control tool, or set to the
black and white point before scanning.
Never scan with curves or gamma corrections different from 1.0, neither make changes to
the scanned image (like curves) in the image editing application.
The recommended scanning resolution is 150 ppi. This results in file sizes of 5.5 MByte
(Gray) or 16.5 MByte (RGB Color). Lower resolution drastically reduces the file size. Too
low resolution may loose accuracy in the calibration results.
If your scanner can automatically descreen the image while scanning, it is recommended
to turn this feature on. Descreening the image in the image editing application will not
improve the calibration results.
6. Scan the desired area.

Appendix B — Scanning a Test Page 80

Appendix C — How Agfa Calibrator 4.0
Determines the Correct Calibration Curve
The Calibrator 4.0 program will automatically calculate the correct calibration curve when you
provide it with dot gain measurements, and the requested “wanted” curve. The printed results
will then be mapped towards this “wanted” curve. First, we will explain how a linear calibration is
determined. Then the calibration towards a wanted dot gain curve and the calibration of
negative films is explained.

Normal Calibration or Linearization

The curve below graphically represents a set of dot gain measurements for different dot
percentages.

100
RESULT

50

0 50 100
REQUEST

From this data Calibrator determines the normal calibration or linearization curve. This curve
enables you to linearize your printed result. This means that the screened dot percentage you
request from your printer will be the same dot percentage you obtain on the printed result.
■ If you request e.g. a 50% screened dot, you will find that in this case you obtain a 80%
screened dot because of dot gain effects.

Appendix C — How Agfa Calibrator 4.0 Determines the Correct Calibration Curve 81
■ If you want to obtain the 50% screened dot as the result, you have to find what requested
dot percentage delivers you the 50% screened dot after the dot gain effect.
In this case, the 50% screened dot is obtained when requesting a 30% screened dot!

100

80
RESULT

50
=

=
30 •

0 30 50 100
REQUEST

■ This means that you have to calibrate down to 30% in order to really obtain the 50%
screened dot.
❖ Note: A common mistake in the case of this example would be to calibrate down to a
20% dot to obtain a 50% dot, because a dot gain of 30% (the requested 50%
resulted in 80%) was measured. This would cause an incorrect and too light result
after calibration.
If you repeat this procedure for all dot percentages from 0% to 100%, you will obtain the
correct calibration curve as shown in the graph below.

Appendix C — How Agfa Calibrator 4.0 Determines the Correct Calibration Curve 82
 100

=
=
RESULT

=
50

=
=

0 50 100
REQUEST

Calibration of Negative Films

When measuring dot percentages on negative films, check the “Negative” check box in the
main dialog and make sure the densitometer is reading positive dots. So for the patch labelled
“10%” you should read a dot percentage in the neighborhood of 90%.
Calibrator 4.0 compensates for dot gain on negative films the same way as it does for dot gain
on positive films. This means that the patch labelled “80%” on a positive film will have the same
dot gain as the patch labelled “20%” on a negative film. Therefore the calibration curve for
negative films will be the horizontally flipped calibration curve for positive films.

Appendix C — How Agfa Calibrator 4.0 Determines the Correct Calibration Curve 83
 100

RESULT

=
50
=

30 •

0
50 70 100
REQUEST

100
=

=
RESULT

50
=
=

0 50 100
REQUEST

Appendix C — How Agfa Calibrator 4.0 Determines the Correct Calibration Curve 84
Calibration Towards a Wanted Dot Gain Curve

This is almost the same as for a normal calibration or linearization, but instead of calibrating
towards a linear printed result (all requested dot percentages map exactly to the same resulting
dot percentages) you are calibrating towards a non-linear printed result (i.e. the “Wanted” curve
in the Calibrator main dialog). The graph below shows you the resulting calibration curve when
calibrating towards a wanted dot gain curve.

Appendix C — How Agfa Calibrator 4.0 Determines the Correct Calibration Curve 85
 100
s ured
Mea

n ted
Wa

=
RESULT

50
=
40 •

0 40 50 100
REQUEST

100
s ured
Mea
ted
=

n
Wa
=

=
RESULT

50
=
=

0 50 100
REQUEST

Appendix C — How Agfa Calibrator 4.0 Determines the Correct Calibration Curve 86
Flipping the “Wanted” Dot Gain Curve
In some cases it is impossible to measure the wanted curve or goal curve. Only the deviation or
error to the desired result is measurable. These measured error values can still be used as
input in the “Wanted” values column. In order to turn these values into real wanted values, flip
the measured curve around the diagonal by selecting “Flip” from the pull-down menu.
Otherwise, using the measured values as such would result in a calibration in the wrong
direction (i.e. instead of making the output lighter it would become darker or vice versa).
The graph below represents the measured error values and the incorrect resulting transfer
curve when no flipping is done.

100
1

=
ed
Mea
sur =
ted
an
sW
ra
rro

ted
dE

an
ure

sW
RESULT

ra
as

o
r
Er
=M e

50 w ith
fer 1
ns
Tra
f er
= Tr
an
s

0 50 100
REQUEST

This graph represents the wanted values after flipping the measured error values and the
resulting transfer curve which will enable you to produce the correct output.

Appendix C — How Agfa Calibrator 4.0 Determines the Correct Calibration Curve 87
 100
1
re d
Measu

=
"
ing
=

pp
li
r"F
RESULT

e
ft
teda

=
50 Wa
n
1
r
= an
sf
e
Tr

"
ing
lpp
i
"F
rafter
sfe
Tran

0 50 100
REQUEST

Appendix C — How Agfa Calibrator 4.0 Determines the Correct Calibration Curve 88
Appendix D — Calibrate.EDF
Calibrate.EDF files are adapted in Calibrator. To reset the RIP to generate linear output, you
should apply a linear curve to the Calibrate.EDF file.
You can use these adapted Calibrate.EDF files in AgfaSet 3.1 to calibrate PostScript Level 1
RIPs.
In this appendix you will find the instructions for using the adapted Calibrate.EDF files in
AgfaSet 3.1 For a detailed description of AgfaSet 3.1, refer to “Launching an Engine Script” in
Part 2: Macintosh Users of the Agfa PostScript Environment User’s Guide.
1. Click the Engine... button.
After communication with the RIP, the EDF startup screen appears.

The EDF reflects the calibration possibilities of the connected RIP. It does not reflect the
currently installed calibration curve. In the lower part of the screen, you find the pop-up menus
Calibration Curve and Apply.

Selecting the Calibration Curve

The Calibration Curve menu contains the names of the calibration curves that were applied to
the EDF using Calibrator 4.0. Depending on the connected RIP, some of the selections may be
grayed-out. If the EDF file was new, and never adapted by Calibrator, only Printers Default will
appear.

2. Select the calibration curve you want to install on your RIP.

Appendix D — Calibrate.EDF 89
Selecting the Apply Mode for the Calibration Curve
The apply menu contains 4 options:
■ No changes
The calibration curve will not be applied.
■ Temporary
The curve will take effect until the next boot cycle of the RIP (RIP reset or power off/on
cycle).
■ Permanent
On Agfa RIPs you can install the calibration curve permanently. The EDF will adapt the
user/boot file, if existing. The calibration will persist, even after a reboot of the RIP. If no
user/boot file is found on the RIP the selection will be grayed.
If a calibration is already permanently resident on the RIP, the permanent option will
overwrite the former calibration by the one you select now.
■ Remove Permanent Apply
To delete a calibration curve which was permanently installed, choose the Remove
Permanent Apply option . This is only necessary if you want to remove the permanent
calibration. In case you would like to alter the calibration (overwrite by new curve), just use
'Permanent'.

3. Select the apply mode for the selected Calibration Curve.

Applying the Calibration Curve

4. Click the Apply button in the upper right corner of the EDF window to install the selected
calibration curve on the RIP with the selected apply mode.
After doing so, the EDF file will query the RIP again and show the startup screen (see 1.)

Appendix D — Calibrate.EDF 90
Appendix E — Glossary

calibration
The adjustment of a device by measuring its deviation from standard values and then, during
operation of the device, applying values to compensate the deviation. In prepress, in particular,
calibration is the fine-tuning of scanners, monitors, printers, and imagesetters in order to
increase the accuracy of their output.

calibration curve
During the calibration, a curve established by measuring the degree in which the printed
densities differ from the required densities. The curve is plotted by measuring this deviation on
a number of density levels. See also transfer function.

color balance
The amount of cyan, magenta, and yellow printing that is needed to produce a good
reproduction with gray balance and satisfactory overprint colors.

color cast
An original, an image, or a reproduction has a color cast when its overall color appearance
inaccurately tends to one hue. Especially with transparent originals, a color cast can impede
good reproduction.

color correction
The adjustment of color to obtain an accurate image. Color correction may be necessary
because of the impurities of process inks, imperfections of color separations, or because of a
color cast.

color proof
A printed or simulated printed image of each process color using inks, pigments, or dyes to
give a visual impression of the final reproduction.

color separation
The separation of a color image into four layers corresponding to the four inks (CMY+K) used in
process printing. Each layer is a halftone image in itself.

colorimeter
A device used for direct measurement of color.

densitometer
A device sensitive to the intensity of light passing through film or reflected by paper. A
densitometer works in two modes: integral mode measures density on a logarithmic scale from
0 to about 4; dot-percent mode measures density on a linear scale from 0 to 100.

Appendix E — Glossary 91
density
A measure of the darkness of an image on paper or film. In the case of paper, which is
reflective, the less light reflected, the higher the density. In the case of film, which is
transparent, the less light showing through, the higher the density. Paper has an integral
density range from 0 to 2; film from 0.1 to 4.5.

density range
The difference in density between the brightest highlights and darkest shadows of an image.

dot gain
An imperfection of printing that causes halftone dots to print larger than they should. This
imperfection is mainly caused by the spread of light on film (recorder gain) or by the absorption
of ink by paper (press gain). The reproduction thus becomes darker than it should. Calibration
can remedy this through a calibration curve. Dot gain is most noticeable and referred to in the
midtones.

dpi
Dots per inch—a commonly used measure for the resolution of scanners, monitors, printers,
and imagesetters. However, the term is slightly misleading because of the apparent, but non-
existent relation with dots in a halftone. More accurate measures of resolution are ppi (pixels
per inch) and rpi (rels per inch).

EDF
An Engine Description File is a script file that contains the description of a user interface. The
file is used by AgfaSet 3.1 PostScript Administrator’s Tool. The settings of the user result in a
PostScript file to set defaults in the machine. Refer to the AgfaSet 3.1 PostScript
Administrator’s Tool manual for more information.

gray balance
In process printing, indicates the proportions of cyan, magenta, and yellow (in slide-making, the
proportions of red, green, and blue) to obtain a neutral gray, that is, a gray with no apparent
color cast.

gray scale
A range of grays with regular density intervals from white to black. A gray-scale image is an
image that contains various levels (or shades) of gray.

imagesetter
A device used to output a computer image or page composition at high resolution onto
photographic paper or film.

lpi
Lines per inch—the measure of frequency (the spacing) of the lines in a halftone screen,
usually ranging from 55 to 200. The higher the frequency, the smaller the halftone dots will be.

Appendix E — Glossary 92
neutral gray
An area of an image is neutral gray when it does not have any apparent color cast.

PostScript
A language for describing graphic and typographic elements. The elements described in
Postscript can be displayed or printed regardless of the output resolution of the monitor, printer,
or imagesetter. This independence from resolution is achieved by describing the elements as a
collection of vectors with specific shapes.

PPD file
A PostScript Printer Description file is a file that provides a uniform approach to using the
special features of devices that contain PostScript interpreters. They are provided by printer
manufacturers or come with applications.

press gain
See dot gain

proof
A single reproduction of an image to verify its density or its color without actually having to print
it on a printing press.

recorder gain
A defect of the writing engine of an imagesetter by which dots print larger than intended,
causing darker tones.

screen angle
The angle at which lines in a halftone screen are printed. For gray-scale reproductions, an
angle of 45° is common; for color reproductions, each CMY+K halftone has a carefully chosen
angle to avoid moiré.

screen frequency
The spacing of the lines in a halftone image, usually measured in lines per inch (lpi). Each line
is composed of a number of halftone dots.

transfer function
A mathematical function that can be represented by a curve and that transforms density levels
on input to density levels on output. See also calibration curve.

transmissive density
The optical density of a transmission material as determined by a transmissive densitometer.

transmissive densitometer
A device used to measure the coverage of exposed film.

Appendix E — Glossary 93
Index
advanced calibration 27; 41; 54 equipment 12
AgfaSet 3.1 8; 11 features, new 9
angle 23; 37; 50; 63 file format 13; 15; 28; 42; 55
apply 73 File menu 74
calibration 28; 42; 55 frequency 23; 37; 50; 63
Apply Setup 73 Graph 76
black-and-white printer 21 Halftone Linked Transfer Resource 13
Calibrate.EDF file 13; 15; 33; 49; 59 Haltone Linked Transfer Resource 14; 29;
calibration 8; 13 43; 56
apply 28; 42; 55 hardware requirements 16
black-and-white printer 21 imagesetter 21; 34
color printer 50 in-RIP separations 50
completing 60 input 13
complex 8; 27; 41; 54 scanned test page 13
curve 13; 27; 41; 54 text file 13
document 65 typed values 13
essence 10 installation 17
file format 28; 42; 55 linearization 8; 13; 18; 27; 54
imagesetter 21; 34 Load PPD 64
save 28; 55 maximum density 18
settings 23; 37; 50 Measured 70
Calibration Data 66 measuring test page 26; 40; 53
Calibration Device 74 Negative 68
Calibration Setup 62; 77 New 74
Calibrator menu 76 new features 9
Can’t Undo 75 open 74
Clear 75 Agfa Calibrator 4.0 20
Close 74 output 13
Color 23; 50; 63 Calibrate.EDF file 13; 15; 33; 49; 59
color printer 50 Halftone Linked Transfer Resource 13;
color separations 34 14; 29; 43; 56
compensation 8; 13; 27; 41; 54 Photoshop Transfer File 13; 15; 32;
dot gain 8 47; 58
control tone rendering 8 PPD 13; 14; 31; 46
Copy 75 Transfer Resource 13; 14; 30; 44; 56
Cut 75 Page Setup 74
Densities 69 Paste 75
densitometer Photoshop Transfer File 13; 15; 32; 47; 58
automatic 26; 40; 53 PostScript Level 2 8
mechanical 26; 40; 53 PostScript resource 8; 11
scanner 27; 40; 54 PPD 8; 13; 14; 31; 46
Density Settings 77 folder 21; 34
Device 62 load 21
device settings 18 precautions 18
dot Print 74
gain 8; 18 printer selection 19
shape 23; 37; 50 printing
Dot% 69 settings 26; 40; 53
EDF 15; 33; 49; 59 test page 25; 39; 52
Edit menu 75 Quit 75

Index 94
Redo 75 values 66
requirements wanted 27; 41; 54
hardware 16 Verify 72
software 17 Wanted 71
resolution 23; 37; 50; 63 wanted values 27; 41; 54
resource 8; 11 work flow 12
creation 11
management 11
ready-made 11
Revert 74
RIP 11
Ruling Map 23; 37
satellite 8; 11
save 74
calibration 28; 42; 55
Save As 74
scanned test page 27; 40; 41; 54
scanner 27; 40; 41; 54
screen frequency 23; 37; 50
Select All 75
selection
printer 19
work flow 12
settings 18
calibration 23; 37; 50
manufacturer 21; 34
maximum density 18
printing 26; 40; 53
test page 26; 40; 53
Setup 77
Show Clipboard 75
Smooth 66
software requirements 17
start
Agfa Calibrator 4.0 20
calibration 21; 34
Stimuli 70
stimuli values 25; 39; 52
test page 25; 39; 52; 72
measuring 26; 53
scanned 27; 40; 41; 54
settings 26; 40; 53
text file 26; 40; 53
values 25; 39; 52
text file 26; 40; 53
tone rendering 8
Transfer Resource 13; 14; 30; 44; 56
Type 23; 37
typed values 13
Undo 75
Unit 69
untitled 65

Index 95
Appendix F -
Agfa Calibrator 4.0 for Windows
With the outcome of Calibrator 4.0 for Windows, PC users can handle much the
same as the Macintosh users. Here we point out the small differences.

Installing Calibrator on your PC

This section describes the system requirements and installation procedure for
Agfa Calibrator 4.0 for Windows.

System Requirements
The minimum system requirements for running Agfa Calibrator for Windows
are as follows:
■ Personal computer with 386 or higher processor running Microsoft MS-
DOS® operating system version 5.0 or later and Microsoft Windows
operating system version 3.1 or later in 386 enhanced mode.
■ 4MB of available memory.
■ 1MB of available hard disk space.
■ VGA or higher resolution monitor.
■ Microsoft Mouse compatible pointing device is recommended.

Installation Procedure
To install Agfa Calibrator 4.0 for Windows on your PC, proceed as follows:
1. Insert the Agfa PS Companion CD in your CD drive.
2. Run ENGLISH\AGFACAL\SETUP.EXE.
The installation program will copy the files "agfacal.exe", "agfalogo.ps",
"calibrat.edf", "agfacal.pdf" and "readme.txt" into your home directory and the
file "grid.vbx" into your system directory. It also creates a new Program Group
with 3 Program Items. To run the calibrator program, double-click the Agfa
Calibrator 4.0 for Windows icon. To read the release notes, double-click the
Readme icon. To uninstall Agfa Calibrator, double-click the UnInstall icon.

Calibrator 4.0 for Windows F 1

❖ Note: The initialisation file "C:\windows\agfacali.ini" will be automatically
created on first use of Calibrator.

Using Calibrator 4.0

Agfa Calibrator 4.0 for Windows is the version of Calibrator 4.0 for MacOS that
runs on computers with MS-Windows installed. The two programs look and
behave alike. The only subtle differences can be found in some user interface
aspects. Agfa Calibrator for Windows follows the specific behaviour and
guidelines as they exist and are commonly applied for Windows applications.
This way the experienced Windows user immediately will feel comfortable with
Calibrator. The main window has a menu bar, a toolbar and a status bar. The
latter two are not found in the MacOs version. The status bar is intuitive. The
toolbar is briefly explained below:

Nr 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

1: Create new Calibrator document

2: Open existing Calibrator document
3: Save the active document
4: Cut
5: Copy
6: Paste
7: Print the active window
8: Show/Hide black graph
9: Show/Hide cyan graph
10: Show/Hide magenta graph
11: Show/Hide yellow graph
12: Show/Hide all graphs
13: About Agfa Calibrator 4.0 for Windows

Calibrator 4.0 for Windows F 2

Selecting the Printer

Use the ‘Printers’ Control Panel or the ‘Print Manager’ application to select the
PostScript driver and the printer that you want to calibrate.

Set this printer as the default printer. The default printer will be used to print the
test page. The printer name will be saved in your calibrator document

❖ Note: When you select a specific printer in Print Setup, e.g. to print the active
window, never forget to select the default printer in Print Setup again.

Calibrator 4.0 for Windows F 3

Notes on Using Calibrator 4.0

File names under MS-Windows

Due to the known filename restriction (8.3 characters) under MS-Windows, the
Mac file Calibrate.EDF has been renamed for use with Calibrator for Windows as
calibrat.edf.
For the same reason Agfa Calibrator for Windows proposes new descriptive
names when saving Halftone-Linked Transfer Resources and Transfer Resources
in resource files.

■ Example of a Halftone-Linked Transfer Resource file name: 2415R133.agp

Elements of the file name:
n 24 is the imaging resolution /100
n 15 is the integer part of the screen angle
n R is the first character of the dot shape
n 33 is the screen ruling
n ag are the first 2 characters of the name of the Ruling Map
n p is the photometric interpretation

(p positive, n negative)
■ Example of a Transfer Resource file name: BW12P122.ctr
Elements of the file name:
n BW is the device type

(BW : BlackAndWhite, CC : Composite Color, CS : Color Separations)

n 12 is the imaging resolution /100
n P is the photometric interpretation

(p positive, n negative)
n 122 is the screen ruling
n .ctr extension : Calibrator Transfer Resource - file

Calibrator 4.0 for Windows F 4

Saving the calibration curve
1. Click the Apply button and the Apply Setup dialog box appears:

2. Select the file format in which you want to save the calibration curve.

❖ Note: When you apply the calibration curve to the PPD file for your printer,
you will be asked for a filename for the customized PPD file. You can use the
.ppd extension (PPD Files) or the .ext extension (Extended PPD Files). The
saved customized PPD file is always merged. This means that the original
PPD is included, instead of referenced, in the customized one.

Trademarks
The following products, that are protected by trademarks, are mentioned in this
manual:

Microsoft, Windows and MS-DOS are registered trademarks of Microsoft

Corporation.
Macintosh is a registered trademark of Apple Computer, Inc.
PostScript is a registered trademark of Adobe Systems, Inc.

Calibrator 4.0 for Windows F 5