AA-10 Desktop Color PrimerSome color printers are commonly referred to as continuous tone (contone) devices.They do not use traditional halftone screen patterns and angles. Contone devices arecapable of varying the intensity of individual dots.Even if your color printing is done exclusively on the Color Server, you will encounterconcepts from offset printing if you use high-end graphics applications. For example,color controls in illustration applications, such as Illustrator, are geared towardspecifying color for offset printing using process and spot colors. Many applicationsallow you to specify the screening used for each printing plate.Using color effectivelyThe ability to print in color can greatly increase the effectiveness of your message,whether you are printing a presentation or newsletter, or proofing an ad concept thatwill later be printed on a press. Some potential benefits of using color include:• Conveying information rapidly by using color cues• Making use of the emotive aspects of different colors• Increasing impact and message retentionColor can also be a source of distraction and discord if it is used poorly. This sectionoutlines some tips and concepts to consider as you approach designing color materials.
