User guide

PLATESCOPE

Spot Measurement Mode

The spot measurement mode is used to take measurements on an offset plate and display the

results. A graphical representation of the measured area displays in the screen and can be zoomed

on for better viewing. Refer to Zoom Mode operation later in this section.

The spot measurement screen displays the title bar at the top, measurement data in the center,

and current settings at the bottom.

Measuring a Spot

1. From the Main screen, use the Navigation Ring to move the highlight focus to the Spot

Measurement icon.

2. Press the Select button to enter spot targeting mode.

3. Position the instrument’s target window on the sample using the reticule icon in the display for

positioning. Make sure the sample is flat and the instrument is making good contact.

For easier targeting of both highlight and shadow areas, the exposure can be adjusted to high

(4), medium high (3), medium low (2), and low (1). Simply use the Navigation Ring to

move the highlight focus to the Illumination icon, and then press down on the bottom of the

Navigation Ring to page through the various exposure settings.

4. Adjust the current setting if desired. Use the Navigation Ring to move the highlight focus to

Image, Dot Screen, Substrate, or Illumination option icon.

NOTE: Changing a measurement setting will require the instrument to measure a “tonal”

patch. This measurement lets the instrument learn or adjust itself specifically to that surface

for the best accuracy. If no tonal patch is available, measure a midtone patch (something as

close to 50% as possible).

Press the Select button to page through available options (see explanation below). The option

displayed is the active option.

Image Type (+ or -)

Used to select positive (+) or negative (-) material.

Dot Screen Type (AM, FM, or Hyb)

Used to select Conventional (AM), Stochastic (FM) or Hybrid (Hyb) screening.

Positioning reticule

Dot screen

Image

Illumination

Measurement area

Spot mode icon

Tonal appearing here indicates the settings

were changed and a tonal patch must be

measured (see note below).

Substrate

Exposure setting