Kodak Polychrome Graphics (KPG) has placed an order for a further eight GretagMacbeth D19C densitometers equipped with plate measurement function.


The order, placed with Colour Data Systems in the Wirral, means that KPG will have 12 of the products, which it intends to use for quality assessment during production.


Each basic unit costs 2,497, and 273 is added for each additional function.


The densitometers feature detecting trapping, which detects the right filter, and dot percentages on CMYK colours.


We think the D19C is a good machine: it was one of the most reliable measurers of dot percentage we found, but its also about price, said applications technology director Steve Doyle.


When asked why the firm hadnt chosen to use digital dotmeters, which are seen as more accurate for reading plate dot values, he said: Some people at KPG use other products that can be more accurate, but with the D19C we have history on our side.


KPG has been using the GretagMacbeth densitometers since 1996 and they have a good reputation in the company, according to Doyle.


Other products available for plate reading include Laurie Mullaney Associates Acme digital plate reader and the Centurfax CCDot product.


Story by Jeremy Allen