ColorPRO Technology represents a quality standard for color excellence in digital printing, based on meeting a strict set of quality specifications, verified by the Printing Applications Laboratory, the independent third-party testing agency chosen to ensure and validate compliance with these specifications. PAL has the technology, management, and the established infrastructure required for the worldwide-class testing program required by the ColorPRO Technology Initiative.
To get started, go to HP’s website and inquire for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long would it take to test the samples?
It will take approximately 2 weeks after paper samples are received to provide results if there is no backlog. PAL will confirm the testing schedule with each Paper Company upon receipt of the paper required for testing.
What is the qualification process?
Summary of the qualification process:
- Paper Company completes ColorPRO Technology Paper Qualification Testing Program Request Form and submits to:
Rochester Institute of Technology
Printing Applications Laboratory
Attn: Barbara Giordano
bagter@rit.edu
or
Fax: 585-475-2690 - Paper Company provides Qualification Paper Sample to PAL from every sample looking to get qualified.
- The Qualification Paper Sample is:
Two sets of strips, each consisting of three reel strips, one set from the beginning of the manufacturing run, one set from the end of the manufacturing run. Each strip will have a minimum of 12 inches in the machine direction, and 20 feet in the cross machine direction, z-folded every 10″-12″. Ship required paper to:Rochester Institute of Technology
Printing Applications Laboratory
Building 78, Dock #5, Room 1535
Attn: Dan Clark/ColorPro Technology Qualification Testing Program
66 Lomb Memorial Drive
Rochester, NY 14623
(585) 475-2685 - Material originating from outside the U.S. must include an original commercial invoice, and/or a bill of lading. This will assist with the clearing of the material through customs and reduce shipping delays.
- PAL will confirm receipt of paper and testing schedule upon receipt of required paper and completed ColorPRO Technology Paper Qualification Testing Program Request form.
- PAL PAL will perform the tests required to asses if the paper meets the specifications set by the program.
- Upon the completion of testing, PAL will provide a summary report back to the Paper Company indicating a pass/fail result.
What are the tests in the ColorPro qualification?
The qualification program includes 4 main parts:
- Color Gamut
- Optical Density
- Line Quality
- Color-over-color Quality
Who developed these tests and the passing specifications?
HP developed these tests with the support and input from major paper companies.
If a paper passes all tests, does a paper company automatically get the right to use the ColorPRO logo?
No, passing PAL testing does not mean Paper Company can automatically obtain the rights to use the ColorPRO logo. For details on the ColorPRO partnership program, contact the ColorPRO Partnership Program Manager.
Does PAL make the final determination as to who passes or fails the qualification tests?
Yes, PAL will make the final determination on whether the particular sample passes or fails the qualification. All tests must get a pass from PAL before proceeding further. If a Qualification Paper Sample fails the tests, there is a specific set of requirements for sample resubmission. Representation of the sample sent for qualification over multiple brands/weights/finishes of the paper products, as well as other aspects of the production, will be specified further in the referred document. For more details, contact Dan Clark.
Would my samples and testing results be kept confidential by PAL?
Yes, PAL will not share your name or testing results with anyone unless Paper Company authorizes PAL to do so, however, PAL will notify the Trademark Licensor if the paper passes or fails the tests as this is one of the requirements to get the rights to use the ColorPRO trademark.
Are the qualification testing fees or costs subsidized by other companies or organizations?
No, the qualification cost will be covered by each individual paper company and be paid directly to RIT-PAL.
