The ECI/bvdm GrayCon M i1 is currently the only vendor independent control strip for judging a print being conform to ISO 12647-2 concerning TVI, Lab-values of the primaries AND for judging the gray balance of a print to match the FOGRA characterization-data / ECI-profiles used for proofing.
The ECI/bvdm GrayCon M i1 can be read in scanning mode with more or less all available scanning spectrophometers on the market including X-Rite i1, Techkon RS 800 and Heidelberg Image control. This makes the strip ideal for projects where print buyer and printer agree to produce according ISO 12647-2 and with proofs based on FOGRA characterization-data / ECI-profiles.
The The ECI/bvdm GrayCon M i1 is placed on the print sheet between the individual pages. The OK sheet will be archived at the printer and may also send to the print buyer. Both sides are now able to measure the strip on the OK sheet with a scanning spectrophometer in seconds and generate a report with approbiate software how good the OK sheet matches the aims of ISO 12647-2.
The ECI/bvdm GrayCon M i1 is available since July 2008 from ECI as free download (14 MB). The very helpful English documentation can be downloaded (700 KB ) separately.
In November 2008 some vendors of software for press verification already implemented the ECI/bvdm GrayCon M i1 as preset. This makes it very easy to use the strip in daily production. Other vendors are already in the state of implementing the ECI/bvdm GrayCon M i1 but allow currently to use it with an individual strip definition. Some vendors of software for press verification only support their own strips and do not allow the integration of individual strips.
In an open world where print buyers work with different printers and printers work with different print buyers, I strongly recommend a vendor independent control strip for judging a print being conform to ISO 12647-2.
Press verification solutions with presets for the ECI/bvdm GrayCon M i1
BasICColor certify V3.2.3 and higher
MetaPrintCheck V4.017 and higher
Press verification solutions which allow to integrate the ECI/bvdm GrayCon M i1 by individual strip definition
CGS ORIS certified press
GMG Print Control / Rapid Check
Heidelberg Prinect Color Toolbox / Quality Monitor