An exact 2 plus handheld spectrophotometer delivers precise color measurement for print packaging workflows, helping teams maintain consistent brand appearance across substrates and press conditions. By capturing spectrophotometric data on the production floor, this device reduces material waste and reproach while improving first-pass approval rates.
Integrated with modern press controls and digital profiling tools, the instrument supports tight process control for flexo, offset, and digital print environments focused on packaging standards. The following sections outline technical capabilities, operational workflows, and practical considerations for facilities adopting this measurement approach.
| Device Model | Measurement Mode | Measurement Area (mm) | Supported Standards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exact 2 Plus Handheld | Reflectance/Spectra | 3 x 3 | ISO 12647-2, ISO 14861, G7 |
| Exact 2 Plus Handheld | Spot vs Area | Spot 1.5, Area 3 | ISO 13655, PSO, FOGRA |
| Exact 2 Plus Handheld | Measurement Geometry | SCI/SCE switchable | ISO 105-J01, TAPPI T 452 |
| Exact 2 Plus Handheld | Connectivity | Bluetooth, USB, Wi‑Fi | Color engine SDK, QCi soft |
Instrument Design And Handling Characteristics
The exact 2 plus handheld spectrophotometer is engineered for rugged daily use in packaging pressrooms, with an ergonomic body and sealed optical path to resist dust and moisture ingress. Lightweight construction and balanced grip reduce operator fatigue during repetitive measurements across reels, sheets, and finished packages.
Onboard display and configurable shortcut keys enable quick mode selection without a connected PC, streamlining in‑press checks and roll‑by roll inspections. The intuitive interface supports both metric and imperial units, accommodating global teams that manage multilingual print production schedules.
Workflow Integration For Print Packaging
Integration with press control systems and inline inspection platforms allows the exact 2 plus handheld spectrophotometer to capture measurements that automatically update process control charts in real time. Operators can define pass/fail limits linked to brand standards, triggering alerts when measured values drift beyond defined tolerances between scheduled standard patches.
Data is exported in multiple formats, including CSV, PDF reports, and device native formats compatible with leading color management platforms. This connectivity supports closed‑loop tuning of anilox, blade pressure, and substrate handling, aligning production output with the defined tolerances for each packaging contract.
Measurement Accuracy And Repeatability
Advanced optics and calibration routines deliver consistent ΔE performance across a broad range of packaging substrates, from uncoated paperboard to low‑energy polypropylene. Regular verification with certified standards ensures long‑term stability, while built‑in diagnostics simplify troubleshooting when measurement deviations are detected during production runs.
Typical repeatability values meet or exceed industry benchmarks for ΔE94 and CMC(2:1) metrics, providing confidence for brand owners and converters who rely on quantitative data to approve artwork and maintain color consistency across large print runs.
Operational Best Practices For Packaging Pressrooms
Implementing structured measurement routines with the exact 2 plus handheld spectrophotometer improves process control and reduces subjectivity in color decisions. Recommended practices cover instrument placement, measurement sequence, and data handling to maximize value from each inspection point.
- Position measurement targets in representative areas that reflect both highlight and shadow regions of the printed image.
- Use fixed instrument angles and consistent illumination conditions to minimize inter‑operator variability.
- Schedule verification patches at the start, middle, and end of each press run to detect drift early.
- Archive measurement records with lot and press identifiers to simplify traceability during audits and customer reviews.
FAQ
Reader questions
How does the exact 2 plus handheld spectrophotometer improve first-pass print approval rates for packaging?
By providing objective, repeatable color data at the press, the device enables early detection of shade variation and metamerism, allowing adjustments before large quantities of non‑conforming material are produced.
Can this instrument be used for both spot and process color measurement on flexible packaging materials?
Yes, the switchable measurement modes support separate patch libraries for spot inks and process color, and the software tools handle metamerism checks that are common in multi‑substrate packaging jobs.
What connectivity options are available to integrate the exact 2 plus handheld spectrophotometer with existing press dashboards?
The instrument offers Bluetooth, USB, and Wi‑Fi interfaces, along with SDK support for color engines and QC software, enabling automated data capture and dashboard visualization without additional hardware gateways.
How often should calibration verification be performed on the exact 2 plus handheld spectrophotometer in a high‑volume packaging environment?
Perform daily verification with certified standards before production starts, and schedule additional checks based on workload volume and observed measurement drift to maintain consistent performance across long runs.