Printers and Converters: Is eXact™ 2 Right for You?

Are you wondering if the new eXact™ 2 is right for your shop? Today we’ll break down the top device, software, and support features for printers and converters to help you decide.

eXact 2 Device Enhancements for Printers and Converters

First, let’s lay out the main hardware differences between eXact 1 and eXact 2.

1. 30% Larger, Tiltable Screen with Double the Resolution. While this may not sound like a huge deal, if you’re measuring press sheets all day, you’ll appreciate how this new device is easier on your eyes and neck. There's no need to lift the device off the press console, thus reducing the chances of drops and breakages.


2. Updated Interface. The new UI on eXact 2 reduces multiple clicks down to two-taps or less for most measurement functions. When you add up these clicks, it can save a respectable amount of time per shift. It’s also more intuitive to use and faster and easier to train new staff.


3. On-Board High-Resolution Camera. An exciting first for eXact, this new model has an on-board high-resolution camera and MantisTM video targeting technology. Digital Loupe functionality provides dynamic zoom capabilities with up to 10x zoom, which presents a few game changers for converters and printers:


• Ensure you’re measuring the right spot.
• Pinpoint small areas on artwork and smaller targets on labels
• Inspect patches before, during, or after measurement to analyze dot gain, identify artifacts, etc.
• Inspect registration targets to verify proper plate alignment.
• Identify physical print defects on slur targets to correct issues with press setup.
• Capture an image as part of audit trail to document print quality.


4. Built-In Scanning. This is a big deal for anyone who measures multiple press sheets a day. eXact 2 offers single pass or integrated scanning capability with built-in scanning wheels. That means you can switch from measuring individual patches to scanning color bars in seconds. Plus, the integrated camera with on-screen guide lines offers a visual look ahead so you know exactly what you’re measuring next.

eXact 2 has another helpful feature that competing scanning devices don’t have – scanning brakes. You can release the brake for scan mode and engage the brake for spot mode for better control over measurements.


5. Switchable Polarization Filter. With a switchable polarization filter in the eXact 2 Plus model, you can manage CMYK and spot colors on a wider variety of substrates, including flexible film. eXact 2 simultaneously measures all the measurement conditions described in ISO 13655:2017: M0, UV included; M1 (methods 1 & 2), D50; M2, UV excluded; M3 - Polarization.

eXact 2 Software Integration for Printers and Converters

Another groundbreaking enhancement for eXact 2 is the on-board Wi-Fi, which enables software integration and secure connectivity from anywhere on the pressroom floor. That means you don’t have to be restricted by a cable to plug your device into a computer to capture measurements for process control or reporting functions.

1. Embedded Wi-Fi. Faster, more secure, and with a significantly greater range than Bluetooth, embedded Wi-Fi will allow ink technicians to get the job done faster and more securely than ever before.


2. ColorCert Software Integration. On-screen integration with ColorCert provides the user with software control directly from the instrument. Job scores are displayed instantly on the device to provide feedback to the operator and reduce the need to interact with another computer at the workstation.


3. InkFormulation Software Capabilities. Close integration with InkFormulation Software simplifies ink workflows.


4. Access to PantoneLIVE. eXact 2 comes with the four Pantone Master libraries and direct access to PantoneLIVE Production for Print & Packaging. With this on-board functionality, operators can access thousands of the latest standards to meet customer color needs across a large variety of paper, film, and paperboard substrates and stay on top of color trends.


5. NetProfiler® Connectivity. Similar to the eXact 1, the eXact 2 connects with NetProfiler to verify and optimize device performance, correct issues caused by age, wear, or environmental conditions, and identify instruments in need of service before they affect color measurements. For large print and packaging shops, NetProfiler also standardizes color acceptance criteria and quality across global locations to ensure color consistency.


6. X-Rite Link Fleet Management. We recently launched X-Rite Link, a cloud-based dashboard that provides real-time data into the location and health of your fleet of devices. You can see the location and operator assigned to each device, plus distribute firmware updates, libraries, color jobs, and more to eXact 2 devices anywhere in the world, from one central location. X-Rite Link also ensures all devices are NetProfiled and ready to go.

eXact 2 Service and Maintenance for Printers and Converters

The complete eXact 2 solution, when purchased with a service care plan ensures measurement accuracy with two years of ISO:9001 compliant NetProfiler verification, access to X-Rite Link, and end-to-end device protection, even against accidental damage, so you can work with confidence.

Which eXact 2 is Right for You?

We encourage you to take our device selector quiz to determine which eXact 2 is best for your pressroom needs. If you still aren’t sure, our Color Experts are always happy to help.