The eXact is a handheld spectrophotometer with an intuitive touchscreen interface. Printers and packaging converters use it to control, manage, and communicate color from anywhere on the pressroom floor. It comes in a variety of models to fit every customer need, and can be upgraded as those needs change.
With so many to choose from, it can be hard to know which eXact model is right for you. Today’s blog can help you decide.
Explore by eXact Model
eXact Basic Densitometer: If you print CMYK and only need to measure density and check tone value increase (Dot Gain/Dot Area), the eXact Basic is a good choice for you. This entry-level handheld densitometer automatically detects color and patch type and provides fast, clear density and tone value measurements of both solids and tints.
eXact Basic Plus Densitometer: This densitometer model does everything the Basic does, plus has the ability to measure trapping, a print characteristic line, and provides a trend view. It also allows you to compare a standard and sample for pass/fail quality control. It’s great if you print CMYK in the pressroom and need to verify all aspects of density. eXact Basic Plus also has Bluetooth capability to remove extra cords from the pressroom.
eXact Standard Spectrophotometer: The eXact Standard is a sophisticated instrument that is for press operators who want to ensure accurate printing of both CMYK and spot colors. Its intelligent software provides enhanced functionality of quality control features, sample measurements, and the capability to store different user profiles. The eXact is a unique combination of hardware and software programming to help operations get color right the first time – every time.
eXact Advanced Spectrophotometer: Ideal for ink and quality control labs, the eXact Advanced can ensure color validation of CMYK and spot color inks and simultaneously measure four M modes. It does everything the eXact standard does, plus offers enhanced colorimetric functionality to evaluate ink and paper prior to, during, and after print production.
eXact Xp: The eXact Xp is solves the unique challenges of measuring flexible films. Both the eXact Standard and the eXact Advanced are available in an Xp model.
eXact Auto-Scan: In addition to measuring in spot and manual modes, X-Rite recently released the eXact Auto-Scan. The eXact Auto-Scan track with InkKeyControl software converts the eXact handheld into a versatile scanning solution to reduce make ready costs like paper and ink. The eXact AutoScan is extremely powerful in that the system can integrate with closed loop and third-party solutions such as Rutherford Graphics, Digital Information, and Print Flow to deliver a mid-range closed loop solution for automatic ink key control adjustments improving the return on investment by several months. For high-speed printing/converting operations, check out the ultra-fast IntelliTrax2 press-side scanning solution.
Explore by Need
Do you print CMYK and measure just density?
The entry-level Basic model is a good choice for you. If you compare measured data to standards for pass/fail indications, you need the Basic Plus model.
Do you measure spot colors?
The Basic model only measures density, so you should consider the eXact Standard or eXact Advanced.
Do you print to standards like G7, PSO, or Japan Color?
You will need the sophistication of the eXact Standard or eXact Advanced.
Do you measure flexible film?
The Xp model is available for the eXact Basic, Basic Plus, Standard, and Advanced models and adds the functionality to measure flexible film.
Do you use the M3 (polarization filter)?
Based on your other needs, the eXact Standard or Advanced will both work, but the Xp model is not for you.
Are you a color scientist or quality assurance specialist?
Evaluating quality assurance and checking metamerism, paper indices, and special values requires the most robust model, the eXact Advanced.
Do you measure cylindrical-shaped items?
The Cup and Cylinder Fixture works with the eXact Family to capture accurate and consistent color readings on cups and cylindrical-shaped samples. It includes a sample-positioning arm to hold the sample at the correct height and angle, and a bench to hold the device.
Do you hope to upgrade in a year or two?
All of the eXact models are upgradable from Basic to Basic Plus to Standard to Advanced through a password. Although you can also convert between eXact and eXact Xp, you must send in the device to make the hardware change.
Do you use color management software?
When you combine your X-Rite eXact with formulation and quality control software, you can validate and manage a specified color across a variety of printing technologies and substrates.
- PantoneLIVE: eXact Standard and Advanced (including Xp models)
- ColorCert: eXact Standard and Advanced (including Xp models)
- InkFormulation Software: eXact Standard and Advanced (including Xp models)
- NetProfiler: eXact Standard and Advanced (including Xp models)
- Color iQC: eXact Standard and Advanced (including Xp models)
Still Not Sure?
The X-Rite eXact is extremely flexible and designed to meet your standards and tolerances and fit seamlessly into your workflow. We know every pressroom workflow is different, and there may be more than one eXact model that will work for your needs. Our Color Experts are trained to help you decide which can provide the power you need at the price point you want. Get in touch for help.
