Assets – ICC Profiles & Measurement Evaluation

This section of Assets provides critical information for accurate measurement evaluation.

Target Aim Values are derived from ICC profiles, which serve as the foundation of modern color-managed workflows:

• Designers create graphic layouts using ICC profiles.

• Color separations are performed through ICC profile conversions.

• PDF files are processed by color management engines that rely on ICC profiles as the primary source of colorimetric reference data.

Rather than relying on theoretical values from characterization datasets, ChromaChecker is built around real-world production workflows — the same ICC profiles used by image editing software, graphic design applications, RIPs, color hubs, and other production tools.

ICC Profiles vs. Characterization Data Sets

ChromaChecker Print Inspector uses CGATS21_CRPC6.icc instead of CRPC-6.txt.
Following this same principle, when using FOGRA characterization data, ChromaChecker requires ISO Coated v2.icc rather than FOGRA.txt.

This ensures that measurement evaluation is fully aligned with real production workflows, not just theoretical reference data.

Extended ICC Profile Description

The ChromaChecker database stores not only ICC profiles, but also critical metadata required for precise measurement analysis and recalculation:

1. Characterization Data Set

The original dataset used to build the profile (e.g., CRPC-6.txt).

2. G7® Compatibility

Indicates whether the profile was created using the G7® calibration methodology.

3. Backing Type (White or Black)

Specifies whether measurements were captured using white or black backing.

• Most modern characterization datasets are based on white backing.

• Some instruments (e.g., Image Control scanning IT8.7-4 targets) default to black backing, which must be accounted for.

4. Substrate Coordinates on Opposite Backing

If profile data is captured using white backing, ChromaChecker also stores the substrate coordinates for black backing.

This enables correct recalculation for SCCA when production measurements are captured on black backgrounds (e.g., IntelliTrax, Image Control), while the ICC profile is based on white backing (e.g., CGATS21_CRPC6.icc).

5. Measurement Conditions

Different measurement conditions can produce significantly different readings, particularly when substrates contain Optical Brightening Agents (OBAs).

• High Fluorescent Index (OBA Index) values can strongly affect measurement results.

• Always use the same measurement condition for both target values and production measurements.

6. TVI Curves (C, M, Y, K)

As defined by PSO (ISO 12647-2):

• TVI calibration requires defined target densitometric curves.

• ISO standards provide predefined curves.

• When using the G7 calibration method, TVI curves are not required and can be omitted.

7. Source

Information about the profile vendor or creator, including a reference or link to the provider’s website.

8. Description

Additional technical details such as:

• Print condition specifics

• Black generation strategy

• Total ink limit

• Other profile creation parameters

Public ICC Profiles Library

ChromaChecker provides easy access to a comprehensive library of standard ICC profiles.

Profiles are:

• Organized by vendor directories

• Easily searchable and importable

How to Import Profiles

1. Go to Public Library

2. Select the appropriate vendor directory

3. Choose the desired ICC profiles

4. Click Import

Once imported, profiles are immediately available in My ICC Profiles for measurement evaluation and workflow configuration.