Re: dots on inkjet proof
> {quote:title=ar17 wrote:}{quote}
> is there a need or significance to show dots on proofs?
If the halftone dots on your proof exactly match the halftone dots on the press sheet, then there is an advantage to proofing with halftone dots. Otherwise it can be misleading.
In most cases, the files pass through one RIP to be proofed and then another RIP to make plates. It is unlikely the halftone dots will be generated exactly the same by the different RIPs. Exceptions are the ROOM workflow previously mentioned.
Two scenarios I have dealt with :
1)
Problem hitting color on press, and trying to troubleshoot it by comparing the dots on the proof to dots on the press sheet. The dots were so different, nothing conclusive could be determined from that comparison.
2)
Moire in fabric on press. The proof was an Approval, but did not exhibit moire. The way the image data was screened by the CTP RIP caused the moire, but was not predicted by the proof because the way it was screened was so different.
In a time long ago when the proofs were made from the same screened film that made the plates, halftone dots on the proof told you a lot and could predict some problems before the press cylinders started turning. Unless you have a ROOM workflow, halftone dots on proofs aren't that helpful anymore. In fact, it can limit how well the proof matches color-wise, so it is actually a disadvantage from my perspective.
Most of the "old schoolers" are retired now anyway, except for me
Chasd.