Why You Shouldn’t Overlook White Backing Tile When Using Your X-Rite eXact™
Why You Shouldn’t Overlook the White Tile When Using an X-Rite eXact™
In the world of color measurement, precision is everything. Whether you're working in print, packaging, or quality control, even small inconsistencies can lead to noticeable and costly errors. One often-overlooked component in this process is the white backing tile used with devices like the X-Rite eXact™—and ignoring it can compromise your results more than you might think.
What Is the White Tile?
The white tile is a standardized surface used with spectrophotometers. It serves as a backing white for device measurements allowing it to understand what “true white” looks like under your current color measurement. This step ensures that all subsequent color measurements are accurate and consistent and in compliance with ISO 13655.
Why It Matters
When the white tile is clean, properly maintained, and used regularly for formulation, correction and QC measurements, it helps ensure that your device is reading colors correctly. Skipping this step—or using a dirty or damaged tile—can introduce errors into every measurement you take afterward. In practical terms, that could mean:
Colors appearing slightly off from their intended values
Inconsistencies between production runs
Failed quality checks or customer dissatisfaction
Best Practices
To get the most out of your X-Rite eXact™ device:
Calibrate regularly, especially before critical measurements
Keep the white tile clean and protected when not in use
Inspect it for wear or contamination
Replace it when it no longer meets standards
how to calibration color in the flexo press room
Common Mistakes
A few frequent oversights include:
Using ceramic tile from hardware store: Using tile with incorrect white specs can cause false measurements during the formulation process.
Handling the tile improperly: Fingerprints, dust, or scratches can affect its accuracy.
Assuming it’s “always fine”: Ignoring ink or other stains can have seriouse consequences on quality color measurments. Using computer paper that's loaded with optical brighteners will give false readings.
Final Thoughts
The white tile may seem like a small, routine part of your workflow, but it plays a crucial role in maintaining measurement integrity. Treating it with the same care as your measurement device ensures reliable, repeatable color data—and ultimately, better results across your entire process.
Don’t let something so simple become the weak link in your color management system.
