This standard specifies optical character recognition (OCR) inks by their spectral characteristics for different users within the OCR community. It includes definitions@ test methods@ and information needed to apply this standard. It does not address ink formulation. While printing equipment varies@ and each type requires specific working qualities in the inks used@ the ink properties are independent of the OCR quality of the final print. Moreover@ a specified OCR quality in a printed image can be achieved from dissimilar inks - for example@ offset@ gravure@ letterpress@ flexographic@ typewriter ribbons@ credit card carbon@ and the like. Purpose. The purpose of this standard is to provide data and guidelines for specifying OCR inks suitable for optical readers and for interchange of information among compatible OCR equipment.