Ink Suppliers: Is eXact 2 Right for You?

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

eXact 2 Device Enhancements for Ink Suppliers

First, let’s look at 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 drawdowns all day, you’ll appreciate how this new device is easier on your eyes and neck. 
   
   
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, which makes it faster and easier to train new staff.
    
3. High-Resolution Camera. An exciting first for eXact, this new model has an on-board high-resolution camera and Mantis^TM video targeting technology. Digital Loupe functionality provides dynamic zoom capabilities with up to 10x zoom to verify you’re measuring the right spot and capture an image as part of audit trail to prove ink quality.
    
4. Non-Contact Measurement. The eXact 2 aperture is set into the device to minimize ink tracking and contamination when measuring drawdowns and proofs, eliminating the need for rework.
    
5. Switchable Polarization Filter.  With a switchable polarization filter, you can formulate and proof inks for a wider variety of substrates, including flexible film. eXact 2 simultaneously measures all measurement conditions described in ISO 13655:2017: M0, UV included; M1 (methods 1 & 2), D50; M2, UV excluded; M3 - Polarization. That means you can use the same model for all your facilities, regardless of substrate, and move an eXact 2 between facilities without worrying if it is the right type of device.

eXact 2 Software Integration for Ink Suppliers

Another groundbreaking enhancement for eXact 2 is the on-board Wi-Fi, which enables software integration and connectivity from anywhere in the ink kitchen. 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. InkFormulation Software Capabilities.eXact 2 integrates with InkFormulation Software to simplify ink workflows and accelerate color development through better match performance and reduced proofing. eXact 2 also features My Tool, a fully customizable tool designed specifically for the ink kitchen to help get the job completed quickly and with less waste.
   
   
3. Access to PantoneLIVE. eXact 2 comes withthe four Pantone Master libraries and direct access to PantoneLIVE for Print and Packaging. With this on-board functionality, ink formulators can access thousands of the latest standards to formulate accurate color across a large variety of paper, film, and paperboard substrates.
   
   
4. 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. If you’re working with large print and packaging shops, NetProfiler also standardizes color acceptance criteria and quality across global locations to ensure color consistency.
    
5. 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 Ink Suppliers

The complete eXact 2 solution 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 ink formulation needs. If you still aren’t sure, our Color Experts are always happy to help.