Dot Gain control must begin in the Lithography unit before the plate is sent to the press. The first step is the proper maintenance of the CTP device and processor; regular chemical replacement and precise temperature control are vital for ensuring uniform plate development and preserving dot dimensions. This action prevents distortion in halftone dots smaller than the specified limit (Minimum Dots).
The second step is the use of plate measuring tools. The production team must daily utilize plate readers to measure and record the dot density. This data should be constantly compared against standard curves from FOGRA or Idealliance to quickly identify any deviation. This monitoring ensures that the print output remains compliant with international standards.