color management system (CMS)
Color management systems(CMS) are computer programs that match color spaces during color input, display, and output to produce a graphic representation that always has the same colors throughout the entire production chain, thus guaranteeing color consistency. The prerequisites for such matching of input, processing, display and output devices require color calibration of the devices.
For the adaptation of the different color models, the colorimetric calibration, the International Color Consortium( ICC) has developed a manufacturer-independent platform, the Profile Connection Space( PCS), on which the individual properties of the individual devices are characterized by means of ICC color profiles.
Color input, scanning, digital photography, digital capture, and graphical screen design make up the input profiles that must be matched to the display devices. Since monitors use different technologies, such as LCD display, plasma display or cathode ray tube( CRT), and differ in their color representation, it is necessary to adapt the input profiles to the display profiles. In addition, the color gamut of the various color models and color scales differs considerably from one another, and the color management system must convert the color space of one color model to another. This conversion, which is particularly necessary for color outputs, is called rendering intent. In addition to the various color printers, color data is often required for film or printing plate production. All output devices have different color profiles and must therefore be adapted to the production color processing chain.
The profiles of the devices can be defined with a standardized color reference, the IT8 (International Test 8).
Color management systems can be part of an operating system or a component of special software applications.