Code 0021: Output intent not CMYK

What is the problem?

Most design software that exports to PDF offers a range of presets—predefined combinations of settings tailored for different uses. For example, one preset might optimise the file for screens (with reduced detail and smaller file size), another for home printing, and another for commercial print production.

Some of these presets include output intent profiles, which tell the PDF how to handle and display colour.

If you’re seeing this error, your PDF was exported using a preset that specifies a colour profile other than CMYK. This can lead to unpredictable colour shifts when printed and may affect the accuracy of your final product.

How do I fix it?

Adobe Illustrator and InDesign

The easiest way to ensure your files are correctly set up for print is to use Launch Lab’s export profiles and colour workspaces. These are available for:

• Export profiles: Adobe Illustrator and InDesign

• Colour workspaces: Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop

These files are quick to install and automate the correct settings for reliable, high-quality results. We strongly recommend using them.

Click here to download the files for your app.

To set them up:

Export Profiles

InDesign

1. Go to File > Adobe PDF Presets > Define

2. Click Load

3. Select the .joboptions file provided for InDesign

Illustrator

1. Go to Edit > Adobe PDF Presets

2. Click Import

3. Select the .joboptions file provided for Illustrator

Working Colour Spaces

For InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop:

1. Go to Edit > Color Settings

2. Click Load

3. Select the appropriate .csf file (Colour Settings File) for your software

Once these profiles are loaded, re-export your PDF, and upload it to Launch Lab.

Affinity Publisher, Affinity Designer, or other software

1. Open the PDF export settings in your software

2. Look for Output Intent Profile

3. Select Working CMYK as the profile

4. Export your PDF and upload it to Launch Lab

Further help

If this error code persists after you upload your modified document, please contact our team at support@launchtabletop.com for further assistance.