Overview
ISO 17972-2:2016 - "Graphic technology - Colour data exchange format (CxF/X) - Part 2: Scanner target data (CxF/X-2)" specifies an electronic exchange format for scanner target input values, colour and process-control data, and the metadata needed to interpret them. Built on the Color Exchange Format version 3 (CxF3), CxF/X-2 uses a CustomResource element to define a minimum dataset for exchanging ISO 12641 scanner-target information and to identify files as compliant with that standard.
Key topics and requirements
- CxF3-based structure and validation: CxF/X-2 files must conform to the CxF3 schema (annex includes CxF3_Core.xsd) and typically use the “.CxF” extension. FileInformation must include Creator, CreationDate, and Description (the Description must contain “CxF/X” and the applicable ISO number).
- CustomResource usage: Defines the minimal required fields for ISO 12641 target exchange within the CxF framework so scanner-target metadata can be consistently interpreted.
- Required metadata and measurement specs:
- File-level tags such as TargetType, Manufacturer, Prod_Date, Serial (stored in FileInformation.Tag).
- Measurement details including MeasurementSpec.GeometryChoice, MeasurementSpec.Device.DeviceIllumination, DeviceFilter, DevicePolarization, MeasurementSpec.Backing, and TristimulusSpec.Observer.
- Colour and measurement data:
- Input device values (e.g., ColorRGB) and measured values in device-independent spaces - ColorCIEXYZ or ColorCIELab (one of these is required).
- Manufacturer-supplied statistics where applicable: MEAN_DE, STDDEV_X/Y/Z per patch (mean and standard deviation colourimetric data required for batch-specific reporting).
- Mapping and examples: Annex A maps ISO 28178 keywords to CxF3 elements; annex C includes an example CxF/X-2 file.
Applications and who uses it
ISO 17972-2:2016 is used by organizations and professionals involved in colour-critical imaging workflows:
- Scanner manufacturers and target producers (for calibrated target distribution)
- Prepress and digital-imaging service providers (scanner calibration and verification)
- Colour-management software vendors (import/export and automated workflows)
- Quality-control laboratories and print vendors (ensuring traceable, verifiable colour data)
Benefits include reduced ambiguity in target data exchange, easier automation of scanner calibration, and consistent interpretation of measurement metadata across tools and organizations.
Related standards
- ISO 17972-1 (CxF/X relationship to CxF3)
- ISO 12641 (Prepress colour targets for scanner calibration) - CxF/X-2 supplements ISO 12641
- ISO 28178 (text-format mapping of colour measurement data)
- Color Exchange Format v3.0 (CxF3) documentation and schema
Keywords: ISO 17972-2, CxF/X-2, CxF3, scanner target data, colour data exchange, ISO 12641, colorimetric data, measurement geometry, spectral data.
Open preview (PDF)Graphic technology — Colour data exchange format (CxF/X) — Part 2: Scanner target data (CxF/X-2)