Print simulation apparatus for adjusting the color separation conditions

Abstract

A color original is picked up by a pickup head and B, G, and R image signals are obtained and supplied to a color process circuit including masking correction, under-color removal, and gradation correction circuits. Y, M, C, and K image signals output from the color process circuit are supplied to an exposure head to form a color separation plate. A print simulation unit having first and second frame memories is connected in parallel with the color process circuit. The B, G, and R signals are also written into the first frame memory. The signal read out from the first frame memory is supplied to the color process circuit and is color-corrected. The output from the color process circuit is written into the second frame memory and output to a color monitor. The second frame memory stores two frames, and can display both frames on the color monitor for comparison. The second frame memory has a data latch for latching a predetermined pixel signal, and a circuit for synthesizing the latched data in place of a predetermined pixel signal of the image signals. The second frame memory further has a comparator for detecting a pixel of the image signals having a level higher than a highlight set level, and a circuit for flashing the pixel having a level higher than the highlight set level.