articles/Landscape/monochromeoutputsettings-page3

Tuning Monochrome Output Settings - part 3 of 1 2 3

by Paul Gallagher Published 01/06/2007

Post Script

Why did my screen match my ABW Epson prints? My uncalibrated screen was too light. The Epson ABW setting produces light prints and so the two actually matched. However, when printing using colour settings and an RGB profile, the printer produced the correct tone but this was darker than the screen. Experience has taught us that you need to reduce the density of the print by between 9 and 11% when using ABW, by dialling that amount out in the setting (see diagram on the opposite page). We often add back about 6% contrast as well. As with all these things there is scope for tweaking and interpretation, never mix up what you like the look of with what a set of numbers might demand! However, consistency is the key to repeatability and accurate reproduction.

"Can I take the electrodes off now Mike?"

ABOVE: Mike McNamee's analysis of prints made from the Groynes image shows the lightening effect of using the Advanced Black and White setting on the Epson 7800. The bowing out of the curve from the straight line shows the mismatch between the expected and actual values. This may be overcome by tweaking the settings of the ABW driver

• Tuning Monochrome Output Settings page 1
  
• Tuning Monochrome Output Settings page 2
  
• Tuning Monochrome Output Settings page 3
  

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