ISO 12646:2015
(Main)Graphic technology - Displays for colour proofing - Characteristics
Graphic technology - Displays for colour proofing - Characteristics
ISO 12646:2015 specifies requirements for two conformance levels for the characteristics of displays to be used for soft proofing of colour images. Included are requirements for uniformity and variations of electro-optical properties with viewing direction for different driving signals.
Technologie graphique — Affichages pour la réalisation d'épreuves en couleur — Caractéristiques
Grafična tehnologija - Zasloni za barvno preskušanje - Značilnosti
Ta mednarodni standard določa zahteve za dve ravni skladnosti za lastnosti
zaslonov za mehko preskušane barvnih slik. Vključene so zahteve za enotnost in
različice elektro-optičnih lastnosti s smerjo ogleda za različne vozne signale.
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 18-Jun-2015
- Technical Committee
- ISO/TC 130 - Graphic technology
- Drafting Committee
- ISO/TC 130/WG 3 - Process control and related metrology
- Current Stage
- 9093 - International Standard confirmed
- Start Date
- 02-Aug-2022
- Completion Date
- 13-Dec-2025
Relations
- Effective Date
- 04-Sep-2010
- Effective Date
- 04-Sep-2010
Overview
ISO 12646:2015 - Graphic technology - Displays for colour proofing - Characteristics defines requirements and test methods for displays used in soft proofing of colour images. The standard specifies two conformance levels (Class A and Class B) and addresses key electro‑optical properties such as uniformity, viewing‑angle behaviour, calibration aims and stabilization. Its purpose is to help manufacturers, colour managers and prepress professionals ensure that a display can reliably represent proofs intended to match hard‑copy output.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Conformance levels: Two levels (Class A and Class B) are defined to address differing soft‑proofing needs (ISO 14861 compatibility is emphasized).
- Calibration aims: Default calibration for testing is a luminance of 160 cd/m², white point at D50 (x=0.3457, y=0.3585, 2° observer) and gamma ≈ 2.2. Test results must report any deviation from these aims.
- Stabilization (warm‑up): Displays must be operated in calibration mode for 12 hours in a controlled room (18–28 °C, ±0.5 °C). Stability is reached when luminance change < 2% (compared to the average of the last 9 hours) and white point within ±0.005 Δx, Δy.
- Uniformity testing: Tonality and colour uniformity use a 5×5 grid of measurements referenced to the centre patch. Colour differences are evaluated in CIELAB using ΔE00; for white and mid‑grey driving levels DE00 should be ≤ 4.
- Tonality uniformity metric: Luminance ratios for grey and white (e.g., RGB = 127 and 255 for 8‑bit) are used to compute deviations; the maximum deviation should be < 10%.
- Viewing cone / angle measurements: The standard prescribes geometry and measurement methods for viewing‑angle dependent variations (horizontal, vertical, diagonal and 45° positions) to quantify how electro‑optical properties change with viewing direction.
- Test methods & instrumentation: Includes photometric, colorimetric and spectroradiometric measurement conditions and preparation procedures.
Applications and who uses it
- Display manufacturers qualifying panels for the graphic arts market.
- Prepress and proofing labs that implement soft proofing workflows.
- Colour management engineers and quality assurance teams wanting reproducible proofs that match hard copy.
- OEMs and system integrators designing viewing cabinets or proofing stations compliant with ISO 14861.
Related standards
- ISO 14861 (soft proofing systems)
- ISO 13655 (spectral measurement / colorimetric computation)
- CIE Publication 122 and IEC 61223‑2‑5 (useful background on display evaluation)
ISO 12646 is essential for anyone specifying or testing colour proofing displays, ensuring consistent soft proofs and better colour match between screen and print.
Frequently Asked Questions
ISO 12646:2015 is a standard published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Its full title is "Graphic technology - Displays for colour proofing - Characteristics". This standard covers: ISO 12646:2015 specifies requirements for two conformance levels for the characteristics of displays to be used for soft proofing of colour images. Included are requirements for uniformity and variations of electro-optical properties with viewing direction for different driving signals.
ISO 12646:2015 specifies requirements for two conformance levels for the characteristics of displays to be used for soft proofing of colour images. Included are requirements for uniformity and variations of electro-optical properties with viewing direction for different driving signals.
ISO 12646:2015 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 37.100.01 - Graphic technology in general. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ISO 12646:2015 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ISO 12646:2008/Amd 1:2010, ISO 12646:2008. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
You can purchase ISO 12646:2015 directly from iTeh Standards. The document is available in PDF format and is delivered instantly after payment. Add the standard to your cart and complete the secure checkout process. iTeh Standards is an authorized distributor of ISO standards.
Standards Content (Sample)
SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-maj-2016
1DGRPHãþD
SIST ISO 12646:2010
SIST ISO 12646:2010/Dod 1:2014
*UDILþQDWHKQRORJLMD=DVORQL]DEDUYQRSUHVNXãDQMH=QDþLOQRVWL
Graphic technology - Displays for colour proofing - Characteristics
Technologie graphique - Affichages pour la réalisation d'épreuves en couleur -
Caractéristiques
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: ISO 12646:2015
ICS:
17.180.20 Barve in merjenje svetlobe Colours and measurement of
light
37.100.10 Reprodukcijska oprema Reproduction equipment
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 12646
Third edition
2015-07-15
Graphic technology — Displays for
colour proofing — Characteristics
Technologie graphique — Affichages pour la réalisation d’épreuves en
couleur — Caractéristiques
Reference number
©
ISO 2015
© ISO 2015, Published in Switzerland
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form
or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting on the internet or an intranet, without prior
written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address below or ISO’s member body in the country of
the requester.
ISO copyright office
Ch. de Blandonnet 8 • CP 401
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland
Tel. +41 22 749 01 11
Fax +41 22 749 09 47
copyright@iso.org
www.iso.org
ii © ISO 2015 – All rights reserved
Contents Page
Foreword .iv
Introduction .v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 1
4 Requirements . 2
4.1 General . 2
4.2 Uniformity of luminance and chromaticity . 3
4.2.1 General. 3
4.2.2 Evaluation of tone uniformity . 3
4.2.3 Tonality evaluation (uniformity) . 3
4.3 Viewing cone characteristics . 3
4.4 Reflective characteristics . 4
5 Test methods . 5
5.1 General . 5
5.2 Preparation and display set-up . 5
5.3 Viewing angle dependent tonality evaluation (“∆Gamma”) . 5
5.4 Measurement conditions . . 6
5.4.1 Photometric and colorimetric measurements . 6
5.4.2 Measurements as a function of viewing direction . 8
Bibliography .11
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of any
patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or on
the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www.iso.org/patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation on the meaning of ISO specific terms and expressions related to conformity
assessment, as well as information about ISO’s adherence to the WTO principles in the Technical Barriers
to Trade (TBT) see the following URL: Foreword - Supplementary information
The committee responsible for this document is ISO/TC 130, Graphic technology.
This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition (ISO 12646:2008), which has been technically
revised to improve the compatibility with the requirements of soft proofing defined in ISO 14861.
iv © ISO 2015 – All rights reserved
Introduction
The ability to match colour images displayed on colour displays to the images produced when the same
digital file is rendered by proofing and printing systems (commonly referred to as “soft” proofing) is
increasingly expected in graphic arts. Obtaining such a match is not simple and to be fully accurate
requires careful control of many aspects of the process. The primary purpose of this International
Standard is to make recommendations with respect to the soft proof displays requirements. If these
are met, it is then possible for a soft proofing system such as defined in ISO 14861 to accurately colour
match to the hard copy proof. Hence, this International Standard is intended for display manufacturers
in order to qualify their display for use in graphic arts proofing systems.
The appearance of a colour image on a colour display is influenced by many physical factors other than
controlled ambient viewing conditions. Among the most important of these are uniformity, size and
resolution (in order to permit rendition of the proof at close to its normal size and with the finest detail
visible on the hard copy at normal viewing distances), variation of electro-optical properties with
viewing direction, freedom from flicker and glare (specular reflections with distinct images), the opto-
electronic calibration of the display, and the settings of its display driver software. In this regard, to be
acceptable in a proofing system that provides a reasonable level of image quality, the display needs to
also exhibit these properties at an acceptable quality.
Note that even for displays of the highest quality, the appearance of the displayed image will be limited
by the accuracy of the colour transformation used for converting the digital file from its encoded colour
space to that required for display purposes.
This International Standard specifies requirements for displays to be used in soft proofing systems
defined by ISO 14861. ISO 14861 primarily focuses on applications where the displayed image will be
compared to a hard copy in an adjacent viewing cabinet or where the viewing cabinet intentionally
contains the display. Furthermore, in order to address the different needs for the soft proofing use cases,
two different conformance levels (class A and class B) will be defined in this International Standard.
However, in some practical situations, the image on the screen is evaluated in the absence of a hard
copy. This International Standard might be used as reference, but this is not required. Users of this
International Standard will also benefit from CIE Publication 122 which provides an overview of the
relationship between digital and colorimetric data. Those unfamiliar with the evaluation of displays
will also find it helpful to read IEC 61223-2-5 which contains much useful detailed information about
evaluation and testing of image display devices.
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 12646:2015(E)
Graphic technology — Displays for colour proofing —
Characteristics
1 Scope
This International Standard specifies requirements for two conformance levels for the characteristics
of displays to be used for soft proofing of colour images. Included are requirements for uniformity and
variations of electro-optical properties with viewing direction for different driving signals.
2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and are
indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated
references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 13655, Graphic technology — Spectral measurement and colorimetric computation for graphic arts images
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
3.1
calibration
set of operations that establish, under specified conditions, the relationship between values of quantities
indicated by a measuring instrument or measuring system or values represented by a material measure
of a reference material and the corresponding values realized by standards
[SOURCE: ISO International Vocabulary of Basic and General Terms in Metrology]
Note 1 to entry: However, in typical graphic arts, use cases calibration is understood as an active process where a
display or a printer is adjusted such that it produces the defined aim values.
3.2
colorimeter
instrument for measuring colour values such as the tristimulus values of a colour stimulus
[SOURCE: ISO 12637-2:2008, 2.18]
3.3
design viewing direction
DVD
direction for which specific electro-optical characteristics of the display have been optimized
Note 1 to entry: Examples of important electro-optical characteristics are maximum luminance and maximum
contrast in definite direction.
3.4
gamma
γ
best-fit parameter which relates the display normalized output luminance to a normalized input digital value
presented to the display system including its hardware and software components as given in Formula (1):
γ
LS= +O
()
where
L is the normalized output luminance;
S is the normalized input digital value;
O is the offset.
3.5
ON-state
condition in which the display is switched on
Note 1 to entry: This definition is important for light-valve-like displays which might emit a significant light
intensity even when displaying the darkest image (R = G = B = 0) in the ON-state.
3.6
spectrophotometer
instrument for measuring the reflectance or transmittance of light (or other radiation) by an object at
one or more wavelengths in the spectrum
[SOURCE: ISO 105-A08:2001, 2.24]
3.7
viewing cone
VC
conical space originating at the display surface that includes all viewing directions with a specified
angle of inclination, θ (3.8)
3.8
viewing angle
θ
angle between the normal to the display and the design viewing direction (3.3)
4 Requirements
4.1 General
All display tests should be performed for a display calibrated to a luminance of 160 cd/m and a
chromaticity corresponding to a D50 (x = 0,3 457 and y = 0,3 585) illuminant with a 2° observer at
a gamma of 2,2. The display shall display a ”white” image consisting of the maximum value in each
channel, red, green, and blue (255 for 8-bit). It shall be reported if other calibration aims were used.
NOTE 1 This calibration condition is typical of the conditions used in the graphic arts industry and ensures
that the results of different tested displays can be compared because uniformity can be dependent to some extent
on the chosen gamma, luminance, and white point settings.
If a display to be tested will be used solely in a specific soft proofing system where no display calibration
is used, but only the state of the display is characterized, the calibration can be omitted. The luminance,
the white point chromaticity (as expressed in CIExy units), and tone reproduction curve (as expressed
by a single gamma value or as a set of tabulated values) shall be reported.
The display shall be tested in a stable condition. In order to establish the individual stabilization time,
each display to be tested shall be operated in the calibration mode for 12 h in a room with controlled
temperature conditions. The room temperature shall not change more than ±0,5 °C and shall be in the
range of 18 °C to 28 °C.
The stabilization time (warm up time) is achieved when the luminance change is less than 2 % (compared to
the average of the measurements of the last 9 h of the 12 h period) and the white point is within ±0,005 for
CIE Δx, Δy of the calibrated conditions. If the display will not achieve stable conditions, it shall not be used.
2 © ISO 2015 – All rights reserved
The warm up behaviour of a display shall be reported with a graph of luminance and CIE Δx, Δy in
measured values and in percentage compared to the average of the last 9 h of the 12 h period.
NOTE 2 When using viewing condition P2, according to ISO 3664, a luminance of 160 cd/m correlates with an
illuminance of 500 lux illuminating a perfect reflecting diffusor.
4.2 Uniformity of luminance and chromaticity
4.2.1 General
The uniformity of a soft proofing system is vital and shall be checked for solid colours and for tonality
(gradation) changes of the screen. If the informative requirements of 4.2.2. or 4.2.3 are not met, this
shall be reported. Therefore, the following method is normatively required in ISO 14861. However, since
there are soft proofing solutions that are able to perform a spatial resolved uniformity correction, this
International Standard makes the uniformity assessment informative.
It shall be reported and if hardware based, look up table display corrections are turned on (if present).
4.2.2 Evaluation of tone uniformity
The CIELAB values of a uniform 5 × 5 grid are calculated using the measurement of the centre patch at
maximum driving as the reference white illuminant. Note that this method may result in some CIEL*
values being greater than 100. 24 readings are compared with the centre colour for three different driving
levels, namely white, at the maximum driving level (R = G = B = 255 for 8-bit displays), grey at about half
maximum driving level (R = G = B = 127 for 8-bit displays), and dark grey at about one fourth of maximum
driving level (R = G = B = 63 for 8-bit displays) by means of the DE00 colour difference formulae. For the
white and the grey driving levels, the DE00 colour differences should be equal or less than four.
4.2.3 Tonality evaluation (uniformity)
Utilizing luminance (cd/m ) measurements of grey at half maximum driving level (R = G = B = 127 for
8-bit displays) and white at max driving level (R = G = B = 255 for 8-bit displays) the grey/white ratio
should be calculated for the 25 regions. For the non-central regions, new ratios, T , with i = {1,.,24} should
i
be computed by dividing the individual grey/white ratios, R , with i = {1,.,24} by the grey/white ratio
i
of the centre, R , subtracting one and calculate t
...
INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 12646
Third edition
2015-07-15
Graphic technology — Displays for
colour proofing — Characteristics
Technologie graphique — Affichages pour la réalisation d’épreuves en
couleur — Caractéristiques
Reference number
©
ISO 2015
© ISO 2015, Published in Switzerland
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form
or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting on the internet or an intranet, without prior
written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address below or ISO’s member body in the country of
the requester.
ISO copyright office
Ch. de Blandonnet 8 • CP 401
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland
Tel. +41 22 749 01 11
Fax +41 22 749 09 47
copyright@iso.org
www.iso.org
ii © ISO 2015 – All rights reserved
Contents Page
Foreword .iv
Introduction .v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 1
4 Requirements . 2
4.1 General . 2
4.2 Uniformity of luminance and chromaticity . 3
4.2.1 General. 3
4.2.2 Evaluation of tone uniformity . 3
4.2.3 Tonality evaluation (uniformity) . 3
4.3 Viewing cone characteristics . 3
4.4 Reflective characteristics . 4
5 Test methods . 5
5.1 General . 5
5.2 Preparation and display set-up . 5
5.3 Viewing angle dependent tonality evaluation (“∆Gamma”) . 5
5.4 Measurement conditions . . 6
5.4.1 Photometric and colorimetric measurements . 6
5.4.2 Measurements as a function of viewing direction . 8
Bibliography .11
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of any
patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or on
the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www.iso.org/patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation on the meaning of ISO specific terms and expressions related to conformity
assessment, as well as information about ISO’s adherence to the WTO principles in the Technical Barriers
to Trade (TBT) see the following URL: Foreword - Supplementary information
The committee responsible for this document is ISO/TC 130, Graphic technology.
This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition (ISO 12646:2008), which has been technically
revised to improve the compatibility with the requirements of soft proofing defined in ISO 14861.
iv © ISO 2015 – All rights reserved
Introduction
The ability to match colour images displayed on colour displays to the images produced when the same
digital file is rendered by proofing and printing systems (commonly referred to as “soft” proofing) is
increasingly expected in graphic arts. Obtaining such a match is not simple and to be fully accurate
requires careful control of many aspects of the process. The primary purpose of this International
Standard is to make recommendations with respect to the soft proof displays requirements. If these
are met, it is then possible for a soft proofing system such as defined in ISO 14861 to accurately colour
match to the hard copy proof. Hence, this International Standard is intended for display manufacturers
in order to qualify their display for use in graphic arts proofing systems.
The appearance of a colour image on a colour display is influenced by many physical factors other than
controlled ambient viewing conditions. Among the most important of these are uniformity, size and
resolution (in order to permit rendition of the proof at close to its normal size and with the finest detail
visible on the hard copy at normal viewing distances), variation of electro-optical properties with
viewing direction, freedom from flicker and glare (specular reflections with distinct images), the opto-
electronic calibration of the display, and the settings of its display driver software. In this regard, to be
acceptable in a proofing system that provides a reasonable level of image quality, the display needs to
also exhibit these properties at an acceptable quality.
Note that even for displays of the highest quality, the appearance of the displayed image will be limited
by the accuracy of the colour transformation used for converting the digital file from its encoded colour
space to that required for display purposes.
This International Standard specifies requirements for displays to be used in soft proofing systems
defined by ISO 14861. ISO 14861 primarily focuses on applications where the displayed image will be
compared to a hard copy in an adjacent viewing cabinet or where the viewing cabinet intentionally
contains the display. Furthermore, in order to address the different needs for the soft proofing use cases,
two different conformance levels (class A and class B) will be defined in this International Standard.
However, in some practical situations, the image on the screen is evaluated in the absence of a hard
copy. This International Standard might be used as reference, but this is not required. Users of this
International Standard will also benefit from CIE Publication 122 which provides an overview of the
relationship between digital and colorimetric data. Those unfamiliar with the evaluation of displays
will also find it helpful to read IEC 61223-2-5 which contains much useful detailed information about
evaluation and testing of image display devices.
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 12646:2015(E)
Graphic technology — Displays for colour proofing —
Characteristics
1 Scope
This International Standard specifies requirements for two conformance levels for the characteristics
of displays to be used for soft proofing of colour images. Included are requirements for uniformity and
variations of electro-optical properties with viewing direction for different driving signals.
2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and are
indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated
references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 13655, Graphic technology — Spectral measurement and colorimetric computation for graphic arts images
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
3.1
calibration
set of operations that establish, under specified conditions, the relationship between values of quantities
indicated by a measuring instrument or measuring system or values represented by a material measure
of a reference material and the corresponding values realized by standards
[SOURCE: ISO International Vocabulary of Basic and General Terms in Metrology]
Note 1 to entry: However, in typical graphic arts, use cases calibration is understood as an active process where a
display or a printer is adjusted such that it produces the defined aim values.
3.2
colorimeter
instrument for measuring colour values such as the tristimulus values of a colour stimulus
[SOURCE: ISO 12637-2:2008, 2.18]
3.3
design viewing direction
DVD
direction for which specific electro-optical characteristics of the display have been optimized
Note 1 to entry: Examples of important electro-optical characteristics are maximum luminance and maximum
contrast in definite direction.
3.4
gamma
γ
best-fit parameter which relates the display normalized output luminance to a normalized input digital value
presented to the display system including its hardware and software components as given in Formula (1):
γ
LS= +O
()
where
L is the normalized output luminance;
S is the normalized input digital value;
O is the offset.
3.5
ON-state
condition in which the display is switched on
Note 1 to entry: This definition is important for light-valve-like displays which might emit a significant light
intensity even when displaying the darkest image (R = G = B = 0) in the ON-state.
3.6
spectrophotometer
instrument for measuring the reflectance or transmittance of light (or other radiation) by an object at
one or more wavelengths in the spectrum
[SOURCE: ISO 105-A08:2001, 2.24]
3.7
viewing cone
VC
conical space originating at the display surface that includes all viewing directions with a specified
angle of inclination, θ (3.8)
3.8
viewing angle
θ
angle between the normal to the display and the design viewing direction (3.3)
4 Requirements
4.1 General
All display tests should be performed for a display calibrated to a luminance of 160 cd/m and a
chromaticity corresponding to a D50 (x = 0,3 457 and y = 0,3 585) illuminant with a 2° observer at
a gamma of 2,2. The display shall display a ”white” image consisting of the maximum value in each
channel, red, green, and blue (255 for 8-bit). It shall be reported if other calibration aims were used.
NOTE 1 This calibration condition is typical of the conditions used in the graphic arts industry and ensures
that the results of different tested displays can be compared because uniformity can be dependent to some extent
on the chosen gamma, luminance, and white point settings.
If a display to be tested will be used solely in a specific soft proofing system where no display calibration
is used, but only the state of the display is characterized, the calibration can be omitted. The luminance,
the white point chromaticity (as expressed in CIExy units), and tone reproduction curve (as expressed
by a single gamma value or as a set of tabulated values) shall be reported.
The display shall be tested in a stable condition. In order to establish the individual stabilization time,
each display to be tested shall be operated in the calibration mode for 12 h in a room with controlled
temperature conditions. The room temperature shall not change more than ±0,5 °C and shall be in the
range of 18 °C to 28 °C.
The stabilization time (warm up time) is achieved when the luminance change is less than 2 % (compared to
the average of the measurements of the last 9 h of the 12 h period) and the white point is within ±0,005 for
CIE Δx, Δy of the calibrated conditions. If the display will not achieve stable conditions, it shall not be used.
2 © ISO 2015 – All rights reserved
The warm up behaviour of a display shall be reported with a graph of luminance and CIE Δx, Δy in
measured values and in percentage compared to the average of the last 9 h of the 12 h period.
NOTE 2 When using viewing condition P2, according to ISO 3664, a luminance of 160 cd/m correlates with an
illuminance of 500 lux illuminating a perfect reflecting diffusor.
4.2 Uniformity of luminance and chromaticity
4.2.1 General
The uniformity of a soft proofing system is vital and shall be checked for solid colours and for tonality
(gradation) changes of the screen. If the informative requirements of 4.2.2. or 4.2.3 are not met, this
shall be reported. Therefore, the following method is normatively required in ISO 14861. However, since
there are soft proofing solutions that are able to perform a spatial resolved uniformity correction, this
International Standard makes the uniformity assessment informative.
It shall be reported and if hardware based, look up table display corrections are turned on (if present).
4.2.2 Evaluation of tone uniformity
The CIELAB values of a uniform 5 × 5 grid are calculated using the measurement of the centre patch at
maximum driving as the reference white illuminant. Note that this method may result in some CIEL*
values being greater than 100. 24 readings are compared with the centre colour for three different driving
levels, namely white, at the maximum driving level (R = G = B = 255 for 8-bit displays), grey at about half
maximum driving level (R = G = B = 127 for 8-bit displays), and dark grey at about one fourth of maximum
driving level (R = G = B = 63 for 8-bit displays) by means of the DE00 colour difference formulae. For the
white and the grey driving levels, the DE00 colour differences should be equal or less than four.
4.2.3 Tonality evaluation (uniformity)
Utilizing luminance (cd/m ) measurements of grey at half maximum driving level (R = G = B = 127 for
8-bit displays) and white at max driving level (R = G = B = 255 for 8-bit displays) the grey/white ratio
should be calculated for the 25 regions. For the non-central regions, new ratios, T , with i = {1,.,24} should
i
be computed by dividing the individual grey/white ratios, R , with i = {1,.,24} by the grey/white ratio
i
of the centre, R , subtracting one and calculate the absolute value of the number. This measure of the
c
deviation from uniform tonality should be less than 10 %, i.e. max (T ), i = {1,.,24} should be less than 0,10.
i
Ta=−bs RR/,1 i=1,.,24 (1)
() ()
ii c
The uniformity of tonality, determined as max (T ), with i = {1,.,24}, should be less than 0,1.
i
4.3 Viewing cone characteristics
The instrumentation setup and measurement geometry for viewing cone measurements shall be as
defined in 5.4.2.
Based on the viewing cone which is visible for a
...
ISO 12646:2015 provides a critical framework for evaluating the performance of displays used in the graphic technology sector, particularly focusing on their applicability for soft proofing of color images. The standard outlines two distinct conformance levels, allowing for a clear understanding of display characteristics while setting benchmarks for quality assurance in the graphic arts industry. One of the notable strengths of ISO 12646:2015 is its comprehensive approach to defining the essential requirements of display uniformity. This is particularly important for professionals in graphic technology, as consistent color representation and uniform brightness across the display are crucial for effective soft proofing. The methodical detailing of uniformity standards ensures that users can achieve high accuracy in color reproduction, thereby enhancing the reliability of printed outputs based on digital proofs. Furthermore, the standard addresses the variations of electro-optical properties with respect to viewing direction under different driving signals. This aspect is vital as it recognizes the practical realities of how displays are used in varied environments with different angles of view. By specifying these parameters, ISO 12646:2015 helps manufacturers design displays that maintain color fidelity regardless of the observer's position, significantly improving the usability of displays in varied workflows. The relevance of ISO 12646:2015 extends beyond technical specifications, as it fosters consistency in the graphic technology industry. In an era where color accuracy is paramount for branding and visual communication, the standard serves as a benchmark for manufacturers and users alike, ensuring that products meet established quality levels. With the emphasis on both the functional and technical aspects of display characteristics, ISO 12646:2015 solidifies its place as a key reference point for professionals engaged in color proofing and display technology. It not only enhances the end-user experience but also aligns with industry needs for reliability and precision in graphic output, establishing a standardized approach that is essential for achieving high-quality visual results.
ISO 12646:2015は、色印刷のためのソフトプルーフィング用ディスプレイの特徴に関する重要な標準であり、その内容は特に印刷業界において高い関連性を持っています。この標準は、ディスプレイの特性に関する二つの適合レベルの要件を明確に規定しており、色画像を正確に再現するための基準を提供しています。 この標準における強みは、均一性および視野方向による電気光学特性の変動に対する要件が含まれている点です。これにより、異なる駆動信号を使用する場合でも、画面上の色の一貫性を保つことができ、ユーザーが求める品質を確保することができます。この特性は、特にプロのデザイナーや印刷技術者にとって非常に重要で、適切な色再現を実現するための信頼性を提供します。 さらに、ISO 12646:2015は、最新の技術に基づいた測定方法や評価手段を採用し、実務における具体的な応用をサポートしています。これにより、関係者は色の正確な再現に向けた基準を統一し、効果的に活用できる環境を整えることができます。 ISO 12646:2015の関連性は、急速に変化するデジタルメディア環境においても非常に高く、これを遵守することで、印刷物やデジタルコンテンツの一貫した品質が維持されます。デザインや印刷プロセスにおいて、顧客の期待に応えるためにも、この標準に基づいた実践は欠かせません。
La norme ISO 12646:2015, ayant pour titre "Technologie graphique - Affichages pour l'épreuve couleur - Caractéristiques", présente un ensemble clair de spécifications qui assurent la qualité des affichages utilisés pour l'épreuve à l'écran des images couleur. Cette norme est essentielle pour les professionnels du secteur graphique, car elle définit les exigences relatives à deux niveaux de conformité pour les caractéristiques des affichages. L'étendue de la norme couvre des aspects cruciaux tels que l'uniformité des couleurs et les variations des propriétés électro-optiques en fonction de la direction de visualisation et des signaux de commande. Ces exigences garantissent que les utilisateurs puissent effectuer des épreuves couleur fiables, ce qui est fondamental dans les processus de production graphique où la précision des couleurs est primordiale. Parmi les points forts de l'ISO 12646:2015, on note la prise en compte des variations de performance en fonction des conditions de visualisation. Cela permet aux utilisateurs de mieux comprendre et de maîtriser l'impact que peuvent avoir les différents paramètres d'affichage sur la représentation des couleurs. En établissant des critères clairs et mesurables, cette norme aide à réduire les incohérences et à améliorer la qualité des reproductions d'images. La pertinence de cette norme dans le domaine de la technologie graphique ne peut être sous-estimée, car elle offre une base solide pour le développement de dispositifs d'affichage et pour l'évaluation de leur performance. En intégrant ISO 12646:2015 dans leur processus de production, les entreprises peuvent s'assurer que leurs pratiques répondent aux standards internationaux, ce qui est un atout majeur dans un marché de plus en plus compétitif. En somme, cette norme non seulement enrichit le corpus de connaissances techniques, mais elle représente également un gage de qualité pour les professionnels travaillant dans le domaine de l'épreuve couleur.
ISO 12646:2015는 그래픽 기술 분야에서 색상 증명에 사용되는 디스플레이의 특성에 대한 요구 사항을 규정하고 있습니다. 이 표준은 소프트 증명에서 색상 이미지를 다루기 위해 사용되는 디스플레이의 특성과 관련하여 두 가지 적합성 수준을 명시하여, 각기 다른 드라이빙 신호에 따라 시청 방향에 따른 전기-광학적 특성의 균일성과 변동성을 포함한 요구 사항을 제공합니다. 이 표준의 강점은 첫째, 디스플레이의 색상 정확성과 신뢰성을 보장하기 위해 체계적으로 설계된 요구 사항을 포함하고 있다는 점입니다. 둘째, 다양한 뷰잉 각도에서의 전기-광학적 특성 변화를 명확히 정의함으로써, 사용자가 다양한 환경에서도 일관된 색상 표현을 유지할 수 있도록 돕습니다. 이로 인해 인쇄 및 디자인 작업에서의 색상 재현성이 개선되는 효과를 가져옵니다. ISO 12646:2015의 범위는 이 표준이 색상 증명을 위한 디스플레이 선정 및 평가에 중요한 역할을 한다는 것을 강조합니다. 이러한 이유로 업계 관계자들이 이 표준을 준수할 경우, 색상 관리 및 품질 보증 과정에서의 일관성이 증대될 것입니다. 이와 같은 표준의 중요성은 그래픽 기술의 혁신과 발전을 뒷받침하며, 결국 소비자에게도 더 나은 시각적 경험을 제공하는 데 기여할 것입니다.
Die Norm ISO 12646:2015 behandelt wichtige Anforderungen an Displays, die für das Softproofing von Farbbildern verwendet werden. Sie definiert zwei Konformitätsstufen, die die charakteristischen Eigenschaften dieser Displays festlegen. Die spezifischen Anforderungen sorgen dafür, dass eine hohe Farbgenauigkeit und Konsistenz erreicht werden können, was für grafische Technologien von entscheidender Bedeutung ist. Stärken der ISO 12646:2015 liegen in der genauen Spezifizierung von Uniformität und der Variation der elektro-optischen Eigenschaften in Abhängigkeit von der Betrachtungsrichtung. Dies stellt sicher, dass Nutzer von Farbproofing-Displays verlässliche Ergebnisse erzielen, unabhängig von den Bedingungen, unter denen das Display betrieben wird. Die Norm unterstützt somit die Qualitätssicherung in der Druck- und Medienbranche, indem sie dazu beiträgt, Farbabweichungen zu minimieren und die Konsistenz zwischen verschiedenen Geräten zu gewährleisten. Die Relevanz der ISO 12646:2015 erstreckt sich über mehrere Bereiche, darunter Grafikdesign, Druckvorstufe und digitale Medienproduktion. Da immer mehr Unternehmen auf digitale Lösungen setzen, erhöht sich die Wichtigkeit dieser Norm, um sicherzustellen, dass die Farbwiedergabe konsequent und präzise bleibt. Folglich stellt die Norm nicht nur einen technischen Rahmen bereit, sondern trägt auch zur Effizienz und Produktqualität in der gesamten Branche bei.














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