X-Rite Color Metrology Lab
The X-Rite Color Metrology Lab is a facility dedicated to the measurement and control of quality color reproduction methods including color proofing, soft proofing, color certification and testing. This resource laboratory has been developed in cooperation with the X-Rite Corporation, and the laboratory forms a working connection between the efforts of the Committee for Graphic Arts Technical Standards (CGATS), the International Standards Organization (ISO), and the Graphic Information Technology program at ASU’s Polytechnic campus.
The X-Rite Color Metrology Lab features hardware and software dedicated to the scientific study of color. The lab’s equipment list includes:
- spectrophotometers
- spectro-densiometers
- colorimiters
- digital plate readers
- controlled lighting apparatus
- digital microscopes
In addition, there are sophisticated Raster Image Processors (RIPs), color quality comparison and data collection processors, and image verification platforms. These devices are employed to measure and standardize the printing and digital display of color. The lab also employs industry-standard input and output devices that support color profiling, color management, soft and hard proofing, and color vision testing.
GIT classes make use of the X-Rite Color Metrology Lab as needed. For example, GIT 437, Color Reproduction Systems, makes extensive use of these color testing and specification facilities. Centrally located within the ASU Print and Imaging Laboratory work flow, students participate in “hands-on-minds-on” experiences where color standards come alive in the print, web-to-print, and multi-media reproduction process.
The lab is also available to the industry for training and color standards research. The lab has hosted Specification for Web Offset Publications (SWOP) training as well as quarterly meetings of CGATS standards formation activities.