Absolute Packaging, located in Anaheim, partnered with Alder Color Solutions to enhance their color management capabilities across multiple print platforms. What began as an installation of a packaging prototyping system quickly evolved into a comprehensive, multi-phase color optimization initiative.
Our first on-site visit focused on the installation and configuration of a new 64-inch inkjet printer designed for direct-to-press stock output. This system utilizes specialized inks capable of printing directly onto press substrates—specifically SBS C1S paperboard. Alongside the hardware installation, we implemented an additional printer option for their existing Fiery XF RIP and upgraded the system to the latest version (v9).
The RIP upgrade was completed on a new workstation, with all existing configurations successfully migrated from the previous system. We then activated the new printer license, built fresh calibrations and ICC profiles, and optimized workflows to ensure maximum color accuracy. All results were verified using ChromaChecker.
The team at Absolute Packaging was highly impressed with ChromaChecker’s capabilities and chose to implement their own subscription. This cloud-based platform provides comprehensive conformance and quality assurance across all aspects of print production, including process and spot color verification, lighting conditions, measurement devices, substrates, environmental factors, fountain solutions, and plate performance. It also supports advanced functions such as G7 curve creation, ICC profiling, and color table optimization.
During the same visit, we evaluated their existing inkjet proofing system, which included Fiery XF paired with an Epson SureColor P9570 and SpectroProofer. We quickly identified two key issues: the use of an incorrect proofing substrate and alignment to the wrong print standard. Since approximately 90% of their packaging work is produced on SBS C1S—a neutral substrate without Optical Brightening Agents (OBAs)—we transitioned them to a non-OBA proofing media and recalibrated the system to a matching non-OBA standard.
Building on the success of the prototyping system and workflow improvements, we conducted a second visit to address Absolute Packaging’s offset press operations. This included a 5-color Komori offset press and an 8-color KBA UV press. At the time, they were transitioning from a previous ink supplier to our Great Western Ink series—conventional inks for the Komori and LED UV inks for the KBA.
We trained their team to use ChromaChecker to establish optimal density targets and created G7 calibration curves for both presses. These curves were then integrated into their Xitron Navigator RIP. A second press run was conducted to validate the results, confirming improved conformance and consistency.
Additionally, ChromaChecker’s Virtual Press Run functionality enabled predictive validation of press performance based on the applied curve data. This feature can significantly reduce the need for additional press runs when G7 Master Printer certification or ICC profiling is not required.
Results and Impact
In just two on-site visits, we successfully implemented color management and conformance validation across:
- Inkjet proofing system
- Packaging prototyping system
- Two offset presses
Absolute Packaging now has the tools, workflows, and expertise to maintain consistent color quality across all production platforms—independent of device or process.
Next Steps
Following a broader audit, several additional improvement areas were identified. Existing light booths were found to be out of specification and are currently being upgraded. The team is also preparing for future expansion into Extended Color Gamut (ECG) printing, with plans underway to implement a dedicated color server to support advanced color management requirements.
Additionally, we have proposed new make-ready systems that go beyond traditional density-based controls. These systems align with modern standards such as G7 and GRACoL, while also supporting ECG workflows—positioning Absolute Packaging for continued growth and innovation in high-quality print production.
