Overview
ISO 17972-3:2017 - Graphic technology - Colour data exchange format (CxF/X) - Part 3: Output target data (CxF/X-3) specifies an electronic exchange format for output target input values, measured colour data and process-control metadata for printers of all types. Built on the Color Exchange Format (CxF3), CxF/X-3 defines a CustomResource element to carry the minimum data needed to identify and interpret targets defined by the ISO 12642 series, while allowing extension for other target types (including non‑CMYK and transmissive targets).
Keywords: ISO 17972-3:2017, CxF/X-3, CxF3, Color Exchange Format, output target data, ISO 12642, color data exchange.
Key topics and requirements
- CxF3-based structure: Files must conform to the CxF3 schema and commonly use the “.CxF” extension (see Annex B). FileInformation must include Creator, CreationDate, and Description; Description must state “CxF/X” and the applicable standard number.
- CustomResource mapping: A CustomResource within CxF is specified to identify files as ISO 12642 series targets and to carry layout and application‑specific metadata.
- Required measurement data:
- Batch-specific mean and standard deviation colorimetric data (XYZ) to two decimal places where applicable.
- Calibrated targets must supply measured colorimetric data for all patches.
- At least one measured representation is required: CIEXYZ, CIELab, or spectral reflectance.
- Instrumentation and measurement metadata: Elements such as Device.Model, DeviceFilter, Measurement Geometry, Backing, and Measurement_Source are required to interpret measurements.
- Input value support: Standard CMYK (ColorCMYK) and device-dependent values. Optional elements for non‑CMYK targets include ColorCMYKPlusN, ColorRGB, ColorCustom, and MeasurementType (e.g., Spectral_Reflectance).
- Layout reporting: When layout is relevant, the CustomResource must include fields like NumberPatchColumns, NumberPatchRows, PageWidth/Height, PatchSize values/percent, margins, PrinterName/Type and SubstrateName. Default: patches ordered left-to-right, top-to-bottom; equal patch sizes unless noted.
Practical applications and users
- Who uses it: prepress houses, printer manufacturers, RIP and color‑management software vendors, print service providers, QA labs, and graphic arts engineers.
- What it’s used for:
- Exchanging calibrated chart definitions and measured target data for device calibration and characterization.
- Replacing or mapping legacy ISO 28178 keyword/text files to a modern XML/CxF3 workflow.
- Enabling consistent verification, colorimetric traceability and vendor‑neutral data exchange across supply chains.
Related standards
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