ColorVision/Pantone Inc. Press Release 22/09/04

Datacolor and Pantone Debut COLORVISION Spyder2; New Color-Management Technology Provides Unparalleled Accuracy and Ease-of-Use

LAWRENCEVILLE, N.J. & CARLSTADT, N.J. - (Business Wire) - Sept. 22, 2004 ColorVision, the digital imaging unit of Datacolor, and Pantone Inc., the global authority on color, will unveil COLORVISION(R) Spyder2(TM), the next generation of affordable color-management technology, at the Photokina International Trade Show in Cologne, Germany, on Sept. 28, 2004, and at GRAPH EXPO in Chicago on Oct. 10, 2004.

The Spyder2(TM) colorimeter, the latest addition to the PANTONE COLORVISION product line, delivers a new level of on-screen color accuracy. The sleek, redesigned, dual-phase hardware features precise calibration and highly accurate ICC profiles for CRT, LCD and laptop displays. The new software and graphical user-interface provide ease-of-use previously unavailable in professional-level monitor calibration products.

Based on the research and development work of ColorVision’s physicists, the Spyder2 state-of-the-art optical science and new light detectors deliver a five-fold increase in sensitivity. Additionally, the new filter pack system and patent-protected light baffle further increase the accuracy of on-screen color measurement. Improvements to the calibration software utilize sophisticated gray-balance and tonal-response algorithms to produce superior color images, including exceptionally smooth gradient steps, life-like flesh tones and neutral grays.

The original Spyder system leveraged the first screen-calibration software to implement integration with ICC-compliant applications such as Adobe(R) Photoshop(R) - and did it at an affordable price-point. Now, Spyder2 makes the process easier and more accurate while maintaining cost effectiveness.

“Monitor calibration doesn’t have to be expensive and complicated and a process mastered only by color experts,” stated Richard Herbert, president of Pantone. “Continuing our tradition of providing the best technology at the best price, the improved Spyder2 and its software’s enhanced wizard walks the user through the calibration process for superior results.”

“The new engineering and technology we employed in Spyder2 anticipates the rise in technical expectations and is designed to meet the continuing acceleration of growth in the photo and imaging markets with affordable, precise, color monitor calibration,” remarked Brian Levey, vice president of ColorVision. “Spyder2 shows that ColorVision and Pantone listen to our customers and are once again first-to-market with the latest technology. As always, our products are based on design excellence and backed by superior customer support.”

For power users, Spyder2PRO(TM) software delivers a wide range of advanced features such as improved white-point correction routines, automated black and white luminance adjustments, and an improved methodology for loading calibration data at start-up. A Profile Chooser makes it easy to select and change profiles. Additionally, multiple monitor calibration support can be achieved for both Macintosh and Windows(R) systems.

Spyder2 will debut at Photokina in Cologne, Germany, Sept. 28 to Oct. 3, 2004 at the ColorVision booth in the Professional Imaging Hall #14.2, Aisle L, booth No. 040. It will also be available at GRAPH EXPO in Chicago, Oct. 10 to Oct. 13 at the Pantone booth, No. 5431. Spyder2 can be purchased from Pantone and ColorVision at http://www.pantone.com and http://www.colorvision.com, respectively.

About PANTONE COLORVISION

Established in 2001, the PANTONE COLORVISION marketing alliance created a unique partnership of unmatched expertise in color management. Together, the two companies combine the best analog and digital solutions to provide color professionals, color enthusiasts, professional photographers, photo hobbyists and consumers with affordable solutions to specify color, calibrate displays, profile printers and confirm color accuracy. The PANTONE COLORVISION product line simplifies color creativity.

About Pantone Inc.

Pantone Inc., developer of the globally accepted PANTONE Color Systems, is the leading source of traditional and electronic products for the selection and accurate communication of color. With over 40 years of experience, Pantone is recognized as the worldwide market leader in color communication and color technology for the graphic design, printing, publishing, textile and plastics industries.

About Datacolor

Because color matters, leading businesses, creative professionals, and consumers worldwide choose Datacolor’s innovative technology and solutions to consistently achieve the right color. The company’s strengths are in understanding how to manage color in many different industries and processes, and using technology to provide efficient color management solutions. A Swiss-held company, Datacolor’s strong global presence encompasses an international strategic network of sales and support offices, supported by worldwide manufacturing and operational facilities.

PANTONE(R) and other Pantone, Inc. trademarks are the property of Pantone, Inc. COLORVISION(R) and other ColorVision Inc. trademarks are the property of ColorVision Inc. Adobe and Photoshop are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United States and/or other countries. Macintosh is a trademark of Apple Computer Inc. Windows is either a registered trademark or trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. (C) Pantone, Inc., 2004. All rights reserved.