PDF x-4 compliance and conversion

[SeanKnickerbocker]

If a PDF if x-4 compliant, is there any reason to convert the file to x-4, or can it be assumed that since the file is compliant that it will be safe for our workflow? I'm thinking specifically of issues with transparencies.

For context: I work in a print shop that specializes in digital book printing. When dealing with a file that is several hundred pages, it can be difficult to consistently and quickly identify problems with transparencies. We're currently using Acrobat and Callas Server for some basic automation. Over the past year I have automated our imposition process, but now I'm looking to automate as much of our preflight checks and fixes as possible.

Any insight on the basics of x-4 compliance/conversion would be great.

PS... While I'm here, what's a good resource for learning the fundamentals of color management? Any recommended texts or courses? Thanks for your time, this forum has already been such a wonderful resource.

 

[Magnus59]

PS... While I'm here, what's a good resource for learning the fundamentals of color management? Any recommended texts or courses? Thanks for your time, this forum has already been such a wonderful resource.

This is a good start

https://www.wiley.com/en-gb/Understanding+Color+Management%2C+2nd+Edition-p-9781119223634

 

[abc]

A really good first step would be to check your workflow can handle PDF/X-4 files.
To test that I really recommend the GWG PDF/X-4 Output Suite. It's free and you can get it here.
Ghent PDF Output Suite

Secondly it's important to understand that PDF/X-4 does not include certain things, Bleed and Resolution for example.
This is because it's meant to cover the whole industry, from Billboards to Business Cards.
If you want industry specific preflight profiles that are built on PDF/X-4 you should check out the Ghent Workgroup ones in your Callas Toolbox.

This page might be useful for you.
PDF/X workflow

 

[Magnus]

We have serveral RIPs and DFEs and our take on this is the following:

First off, we make sure your DFE/RIPs can handle PDF/X-4 with the GWGPDF/X-4 Output Suite, as Andrew suggested. Also make sure the color settings in the DFE/RIPs are aligned to produce the same results.


This is a simplified schema of how we handle our files and I turns out to be quite efficiant:

Automatic preflight:
1. Check resolution, fonts and knock out white overprint objects
2. Check if PDF is valid PDF/X-4 - If true > Impose and send to DFE/RIP without manipulation
3. If PDF is not valid PDF/X-4 > Check if the file contain transparency - If true > flatten trancparency before sending to RIP/DFE
4. If no transparency is found > Send to DFE/RIP without manipulation