The Sprint is initially available for the wide-format graphics and signage markets via an exclusive worldwide distribution agreement with American wide-format software specialist ScanvecAmiable (Sai), which is looking for dealers at Drupa.

Centurfax will release a version for proofing and press process control at the end of this year.

Managing director Bob Leslie said the Sprint's ability to read a test strip that could take 10 minutes with a handheld device, could be done in 30 seconds and that the device was a fraction of the cost of automated strip readers.

"It's going to change people's mindset about the need to spend £10,000-£12,000 on a lump of heavy metal," Leslie said.

He believes the £1,500 price and performance will enable the adoption of making regular measurements for colour profiling and process control possible.

"For a guy today running a press or a proofer, 10 minutes is too long, so they don't bother," he said.

The Sprint uses a patented "wide-mouth" design, which enables it to make readings six to 10 times faster than competing products, the company claims.

It works with Sai's profile-making package Snap, or with any other colour profiling software.

Leslie also added that Centurfax was looking to make the core measuring technology of the Sprint available to press and proofer manufacturers to embed in their machines in order to totally automate colour control.

Centurfax is in Hall 10, stand E52/8.