In announcing "roll-out" details of Version 3, the Committee adopted the Australian version of the international printing standard ISO 12647-2, and has incorporated the ISO 12647-7 tolerances for proofing quality control. 3DAPv3 will enable greater control in the printing processes by making available via their website, recommended separation profiles to suit the final printing requirements.

The change has been driven by Australia’s printers adopting the AS 12647-2 ISO printing standard and one of the many benefits is a common colour space for both web and sheet-fed print applications which will narrow the divide between the two printing methods depending on paper type. The updated 3DAP standards provide many benefits to the pre-press, publishing, and printing industries, giving a more predictable proofing and printing environment. The standards encompass two different ISO paper types which cover the majority of magazine printing requirements. 

(1) Paper Type 1 & 2 -  Sheet fed covers and heavier weight, high brightness coated web offset papers (MWC)
(2) Paper Type 3-  Lighter weight coated web offset magazine papers (LWC)

It should be noted that with these changes, the need for informative client guidance is paramount to ensure all the quality expectations of advertisers, publishers and printers are met.

While the 3DAP Committee expects the publishing industry will make the change relatively quickly and smoothly, the cross over period from 3DAPv2 to 3DAPv3 will be until March 1 2009. Suppliers responsible for producing advertising material will be encouraged to adopt the 3DAPv3 standard as soon as possible and in conjunction with their publisher’s specifications. This will reduce colour issues on press with editorial and advertising pages being supplied to a uniform standard.

To help inform the industry on the changes a revamped website has been launched with the updated profiles and news on 3DAP initiatives. Information alerts will be distributed widely and members of the 3DAP Committee will make themselves available to speak at industry events and participate in online forums.

For more information contact: the 3DAP Chairman:
James Hawkes; Colour Manager; ACP Magazines Ltd 
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Please check www.3dap.com.au routinely for the launch of the new site.