162 Chapter 9 Image quality EN
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.
Color-matching factors
Several factors can influence your ability to match printed colors to
those on your monitor. These factors include:
• Print media
• Printer colorants (inks or toners for example)
• Printing process (inkjet, press or laser technology for example)
• Overhead lighting
• Personal differences in perception of color
• Software applications
• Printer drivers
• PC operating system
• Monitors
• Video cards and drivers
For most users, the best method for matching colors on your screen to
your printer is to print sRGB colors. The HP Color LaserJet 4550 uses
HP ColorSmart II, which uses sRGB and automatically optimizes color
output. Keep in mind the above factors when colors on your screen do
not perfectly match your printed colors.
Matching PANTONE
®
* colors
The PANTONE®* Matching System colors are specified as CMYK
colors as supported in many graphics software applications. This color-
matching system is useful for matching printer output to a specific color
(for example, a logo). See the documentation for your software
application for instructions on using PANTONE®* colors.
www.GovTechMedia.com
