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ENWW Chapter 2 Printing tasks 53
Matching colors
The process of matching printer output color to your monitor is quite complex because printers
and computer monitors use different methods of producing color. Monitors display colors by light
pixels using an RGB (red, green, blue) color process, but printers print colors using a CMYK
(cyan, magenta, yellow, and black) process.
Several factors can influence your ability to match printed colors to those on your screen. These
factors include:
● Print media
● Printer colorants (toner)
●
Printing process (inkjet, press, or laser technology for example)
● Overhead lighting
● Programs
●
Printer drivers
● Computer operating system
● Monitors
● Video cards and drivers
● Operating environment, such as it is very humid or very dry
●
Personal differences in perception of color
Keep in mind the above factors when colors on your screen do not perfectly match your printed
colors. For most users, the best method for matching colors on your screen to your printer is to
print sRGB colors. The printer uses sRGB and automatically optimizes color output.
For more information about solving issues related to color output, see “Problem solving and
maintenance” on page 65.
Printing in four-colors (CMYK)
Cyan, magenta, yellow, and black (CMYK) are the inks used by a printing press. The process is
often called four-color printing. CMYK data files are typically used by and originate from graphic
arts (printing and publishing) environments. The printer will accept CMYK colors through the PS
printer driver. The printer color-rendering of CMYK is designed to provide rich, saturated colors
for text and graphics.