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X-Rite Pantone has revealed its new portable spectrophotometer, eXact 2 Basic – a device set to unlock consistent colour workflows, reduce waste, and improve efficiency alongside digital workflow solutions.

Designed for easy use in commercial print production, the device combines density and L*a*b* colour measurement in a single handheld device.

It is expected to unlock fast, objective colour verification to support product decisions without adding complexity to daily press operations.

In turn, it is hoped to help press operators move past visual inspection and density-only workflows.

Alongside the rest of its product line, eXact 2 Basic is said to fit into an integrated colour workflow – bringing together digital colour standards, ink formulation, press-side measurement, quality management, and production reporting.

Connecting colour data across production is set to help organizations improve visibility, standardize processes, and predict results more accurately.

Potential applications for the packaging sector include flexible packaging, pouches, inline folding cartons, shrink sleeves and labels.

“Reliable colour starts with accurate measurement, but it doesn’t end there,” said Nick Meyer, business unit director, Print and Packaging at X-Rite Pantone. “We’re helping printers and converters connect colour data across the production process so they can work more efficiently, reduce waste, and consistently meet customer expectations.”

At LOUPE Americas (15-17 September), X-Rite Pantone will exhibit alongside Esko at Booth 720 – showcasing eXact 2 Basic alongside other products in the eXact 2 family.

The family will also be displayed at X-Rite Pantone’s Booth C2450 at PRINTING United Expo (23-25 September).

Previously, X-Rite Pantone collaborated with Esko to implement the eXact 2 handheld spectrophotometer into Esko’s AI-powered Print Clone software. This is expected to simplify and accelerate colour matching in digital production environments.

It also worked alongside Siegwerk to develop COLORWERK FastMatch Cloud, a cloud-based colour management system that combines ink formulation, colour correction and quality control. The system aims to help printers and converters achieve ‘fast, accurate and consistent’ colour results across multiple presses, locations, and production processes.

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