Abstract: This disclosure relates to advanced signal processing technology including signal encoding and digital watermarking. Aspects of the disclosure provide methods, articles of manufacture and systems for determining printing plate inconsistencies, e.g., for printing presses printing encoded images or artwork. Of course, other features and combinations are described as well.

Abstract: Substrates and technology for detecting printing plate misuse or mismatch. Such misuse or mismatch may result in multiple, different encoded signal being erroneously included in packaging. One claim generally recites a substrate for a package, hang tag or label, the substrate including: barcode including check digit; printed control icon, the printed control icon comprising a design printed with each of four (4) ink separations, the design comprising plurality of design elements, the plurality of design elements comprising a central element, rotation indicator corresponding to the check digit, and a plurality of registration indicators, the four (4) ink separations comprising Cyan (C) color channel, Magenta (M) color channel, Yellow (Y) color channel and Black (K) color channel; in which the printed control icon indicates a printing plate mismatch when it comprises more than one (1) observable rotation indicator. Of course, other features, claims and combinations are described as well.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to advanced image signal processing technology including encoded signals and digital watermarking.

Abstract: Advanced signal processing technology including signal encoding and digital watermarking. Disclosure includes monitoring spectral differences within control strip area to determine signal robustness of encoded signals printed outside of control strip area. Other combinations and technology provided too.