X-Rite 978 User Manual

X-Rite® 978

0°/45° Spectrophotometer

User’s Manual

CAUTION: Operational hazard exists if AC adaptor other than X-Rite SE30-61 (115V) or SE30-62 (230V) is used.

VORSICHT: Es besteht Betriebsgefahr bei der Verwendung von einem Adapter außer X-Rite SE30-61 (115 U) oder SE30-62 (230 U).

AVISO: No use otro adaptador C.A. que no sea la pieza X-Rite SE30-61 (115V) o SE30-62 (230V), por el riesgo de mal funcionamiento del equipo.

ATTENTION: Ne pas utiliser d’adaptateur autre que SE30-61 (115V) ou SE30-62 (230V) de X-Rite au risque de mauvais fonctionnement de l’appareil.

AVVISO: Non usare un altro adattatore C.A. che non è del pezzo X-Rite SE30-61 (115V) o SE30-62 (230V), per il rischio di malfunzionamento dell’apparecchio.

WARNING: Shielded interface cables must be used in order to maintain compliance with the desired FCC and European emission requirements.

ACHTUNG: Um das Produkt innerhalb der FCC (Vereinigten Staaten) und den europäischen Emissions-Richtlinien zu halten, müssen geschirmte Schnittstellenkabel verwendet werden.

AVISO: Para satisfacer las deseadas regulaciones de emisión para Europa y el FCC, se debe utilizar los cables de interfaz protegidos contra las interferencias electromagnéticas.

AVERTISSEMENT: Des câbles d’interface blindés doivent être utilisés afin de se conformer aux règlements d’émission européens et de FCC (Etats-Unis).

AVVISO: Per conformare con i desiderati regolamentazioni di emissione per Europa ed il FCC, utilizzare i cavi d’interfaccia protetti contro l’interferenze electtromagnetiche.

USE ONLY: AA NICad batteries that are 600/700mAhr rated, six required. Other types may burst causing personal injury.

AUFGEPASST: Verwenden Sie nur AA Nicad Akkus von 600/700mAhr (Milliampere/Stunde) Nennstrom (6 Stück erforderlich). Mit anderen Akkus läuft die Gefahr von Explosion und Verletzung.

ATENCION: Use solamente las pilas de AA NiCad (se requiere seis) con condiciones de funcionamiento normales 600/700mAhr (horas miliamperios). Es posible que los otros tipos puedan estallar y causar daños corporales.

ATTENTION: Utiliser seulement les batteries NICad à courant nominal de 600mAh (milliampère/heure) (6 pièces nécessaire). Il y a danger d’explosion et de blessures avec les autres types.

ATTENZIONE: Usare solamente gli accumulatori al AA NiCad (si richiede sei) con le condizioni di funzionamento normali 600/700mAhr (ore milliamperi). E possibile che altri tipi possano scoppiare e causare danno personale.

WARNING: This instrument is not for use in explosive environment. WARNUNG: Das Gerät soll in einer explosiven Umgebung NICHT verwendet werden. ADVERTENCIA - NO use este aparato en los ambientes explosivos. ATTENTION: Cet instrument NE DOIT PAS être utilisé dans un environnement explosif. AVVERTIMENTO - NON usare questo apparecchio in ambienti esplosivi.

FCC

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

Canada

This Class A digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe A respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.

The Manufacturer: X-Rite, Incorporated Der Hersteller: 3100 44th Street, S.W. El fabricante: Grandville, Michigan 49418 Le fabricant: Il fabbricante:

Declares that: Spectrophotometer gibt bekannt: 978 advierte que: avertit que: avverte che:

is not intended to be connected to a public telecommunications network. an ein öffentliches Telekommunikations-Netzwerk nicht angeschlossen werden soll. no debe ser conectado a redes de telecomunicaciones públicas. ne doit pas être relié à un réseau de télécommunications publique. non deve essere connettuto a reti di telecomunicazioni pubblici.

Dear Customer:

Congratulations! We at X-Rite, Incorporated are proud to present you with an X-Rite 978 Spectrophotometer. This instrument represents the very latest in microcontrollers, integrated circuits, fiber optics, and display technologies. As a result, your X-Rite 978 is a rugged and reliable instrument whose performance and design exhibit the qualities of a finely engineered instrument, which is not surpassed.

To fully appreciate and protect your investment, we suggest that you take the necessary time to read and fully understand this manual. As always, X-Rite stands behind your unit with a one year limited warranty, and a dedicated service organization. If the need arises, please don’t hesitate to call us.

Thank you for your trust and confidence.

Ted Thompson Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Proprietary Notice

The information contained in this manual is derived from patent and proprietary data of X-Rite, Incorporated. This manual has been prepared expressly for the purpose of assisting in the use and general maintenance of this instrument.

Publication of this information does not imply any rights to reproduce or use this manual for purposes other than installing, operating, or maintaining this instrument. No part of this manual may be reproduced, transcribed, transmitted, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language or computer language, in any form or by any means, electronic, magnetic, mechanical, optical, manual, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of an officer of X-Rite, Incorporated.

These provisions are intended to state all of the rights and responsibilities between X-Rite, Incorporated and the customer. They supersede all warranties, expressed or implied, and whether of merchantability, fitness or otherwise. The remedies contained in this manual are exclusive. Customer and X-Rite, Incorporated waive all other remedies, including but not limited to consequential damages. The instrument is covered by one or more of the following U.S. patents: #4,080,075; #4,591,978 and other patents pending. Foreign patent numbers provided on request.

X-Rite® and QA-Master® are registered trademarks of X-Rite, Incorporated 978is a trademark of X-Rite, Incorporated Macintosh® is a registered trademark of Apple Computer, Inc. All other logos, product names, registered trademarks and trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective holders.

Limited Warranty

X-Rite, Incorporated warrants each unit manufactured to be free of defects in material and workmanship (excluding battery pack) for a period of twelve months. If the fault has been caused by misuse or abnormal conditions of operation, repairs will be billed at a nominal cost. In this case, an estimate will be submitted before work is started, if requested. The unit shall be returned with transportation charges prepaid.

THERE ARE NO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS. THIS WARRANTY OBLIGATION IS LIMITED TO SERVICING THE UNIT RETURNED TO X-RITE, INCORPORATED or AN AUTHORIZED SERVICE DEALER FOR THAT PURPOSE.

X-Rite, Incorporated offers a repair program for instruments out of warranty. For more information, contact X-Rite Instrument Services Department.

Always include serial number in any correspondence concerning the unit. The serial number is located on the bottom of the instrument.

This agreement shall be interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of Michigan and jurisdiction and venue shall lie with the courts of Michigan as selected by X-Rite, Incorporated.

CAUTION: This instrument is not for use in explosive environments.

iii

Table of Contents

General Description vi User Interface vii What To Do First! viii

1. Getting Started 1-1

1.1 Unpacking and Inspection 1-1

1.2 Unlocking and Locking the Shoe 1-3

1.3 Applying Power 1-4

1.4 Charging the Batteries 1-5

1.5 Function Selection 1-6

2. Instrument Positioning & Measurement Techniques 2-1

3. Textile QC Operation 3-1

3.1 Defining QC Setups 3-2

3.2 Loading QC Setups and Reference Entry 3-10

3.3 Pass/Fail and 555 Shade Tag Measurements 3-12

4. Absolute Color and Simple Compare Operation 4-1

4.1 Absolute Color and Simple Compare Setup 4-1

4.2 Simple Compare Reference Entry 4-3

4.3 Absolute Color and Simple Measurements 4-5

5. Storage Operation 5-1

5.1 Selecting Storage and Group Number 5-1

5.2 Printing Stored Measurements 5-3

5.3 Deleting Stored Measurements 5-4

5.4 Tagging and Storing Operation (Optional) 5-7

6. Calibration 6-1

6.1 Positioning the Instrument on the White Calibration Standard 6-2

6.2 Calibration Procedure 6-5

7. Setting System Configuration 7-1

7.1 Setting Operation Options 7-1

7.2 Setting I/O Options 7-5

7.3 Setting Printout Format Options 7-7

Table of Contents . . . continued

8. General Maintenance 8-1

8.1 Cleaning the Instrument 8-1

8.2 Cleaning the Optics 8-2

8.3 Replacing the Batteries 8-3

8.4 Replacing the Target Window 8-4

8.5 Reading Lamp Replacement Information 8-5

8.6 Changing the Aperture 8-6

8.7 Troubleshooting Tips 8-9

9. Bar Code Reader (Optional) 9-1

9.1 Attaching the SP78-200 BCR to the Instrument 9-1

9.2 Scanning a Bar Code 9-2

9.3 Troubleshooting 9-3

Appendix A Technical Specification A-1

Appendix B Display Messages B-1

Appendix C Optional Accessories C-1

Appendix D Color Check D-1

General Description

The X-Rite 978 is a reflection spectrophotometer that measures spectral reflectance from 400nm to 700 nm in 20nm intervals. The instrument has a 0° illumination angle, 45° viewing angle, and features a dual-beam, single light pulse compensation method to insure accuracy.

The 978 calculates colorimetric and spectrophotometric data. The 978 displays colorimetric data, and can output (to a printer or computer) colorimetric and spectral data. An optional software package, QA-Master, can collect, sort, view, and analyze L*a*b* and spectral data.

The 978 will store up to 30 user defined setups. Each setup consists of a tolerancing method, tolerancing limits, reference measurement, and 555 shade sort options (shade size and range).

Operating Keys (3)

Target Window

Instrument Shoe

Serial Number Label (bottom of instrument)

2 x 16 Character Display

RS-232 Port

AC Adaptor / Charger Jack

Battery Access Door

User Interface

This information will familiarize you with the typographical

conventions, display function, and general terms used in this manual.

* In the text portion of this manual the 978 key names are shown

with brackets on both sides and in boldface (e.g., [FUNCTION],

[SETUP], etc.).

* When a key is momentarily depressed, the word "press" will be

used (e.g.; Press [FUNCTION]).

* Information that will appear in

the display window will be shown with quotation marks on each side and in boldface (e.g.; "READ REFERENCE").

* The (-) and (+) symbols

indicate which direction a value can be changed. The

(→) symbol moves the cursor under the desired value to be edited.

* A "hand" indicates important

notes and possible operations that need to be performed before the normal operation.

* When a procedure is

continued on the next page, an "arrow" will appear in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

READ REFERENCE

FUNCTION SETUP REF

CAL STORE

CAL

(+)

C* H*

(+)

(-)

1.00 1.00 1.00

(-)

DECREASE INCREASE MOVES

STORE

( )

CURSOR

vii

What To Do First!

This manual is organized into nine sections and four appendixes. In order to make the best use of your instrument, you are urged to read all nine sections. The appendixes can be referred to as necessary.

Section 1 - shows what the packaging contains and explains how to

unlock/lock the shoe, apply power, and charge the batteries properly.

Section 2 - illustrates the proper positioning required for the instrument

to obtain accurate and repeatable measurements.

Section 3 - explains the QC functions of the instrument which

includes: defining setups, loading a setup and reference measurement, and taking pass/fail and 555 shade tag measurements.

Section 4 - describes the procedure for setting up and taking

absolute color simple compare measurements.

Section 5 - explains the procedure for selecting storage groups, and

printing and deleting stored groups. Also explains the operation procedure for the optional Bar Code Reader (SP78-200).

Section 6 - describes all the necessary steps required for calibrating

your instrument.

Section 7 - shows the different configuration options and how to

set them for your particular requirements. The system configuration should be set prior to taking any measurements.

Section 8 - covers basic maintenance of the instrument. Read

through this section and see what it contains, then refer to it as required.

Section 9 - explains how to attach the optional bar code reader to

the instrument and the proper procedure for scanning bar codes.

viii

What To Do First! . . . continued

Appendix A - lists the technical specifications of the instrument. Appendix B - lists error messages that may occur during operation

or calibration and the proper action to take.

Appendix C - lists optional accessories available from X-Rite or an

Authorized Service Center.

Appendix D - describes the color check procedure used to track

color measurement performance.

SECTION 1

GETTING STARTED

Subjects covered in Section 1 are:

* 1.1 Unpacking and Inspection * 1.2 Unlocking and Locking the Shoe * 1.3 Applying Power * 1.4 Charging the Batteries * 1.5 Function Selection

1.1 Unpacking and Inspection

After removing the instrument from the shipping carton, inspect for possible damage. If any damage is noted, contact the transportation company immediately. Do nothing more until the carrier’s agent has inspected the damage.

If damage is not evident, check and make sure that all items are included (refer to the parts list and the following page for packaging illustration).

Your unit was packaged in a specially designed carton to assure against damage. If reshipment is necessary, the instrument should be packaged in the original carton. If the original carton is not available, a new one can be obtained from X-Rite, Incorporated.

1-1

Packaging Illustration

1-2

1.2 Unlocking and Locking the Shoe

The instrument is shipped from the factory with the shoe in the locked position. The shoe should always be locked next to the instrument when it is stored.

To Unlock Shoe:

1. Hold shoe [1] against instrument.

2. Slide lock button [2] on bottom of unit towards the back until it stops, then slowly release the shoe [1].

To Lock Shoe:

1. Hold shoe [1] against unit.

2. Slide lock button [2] towards the front of unit until is stops, then release shoe.

[1]

[2]

1-3

1.3 Applying Power

Battery Operation

During battery operation power is applied automatically when a measurement is taken or if a key is pressed. The instrument automatically goes into a shut down mode to conserve battery life after 45 seconds of non-use.

AC Operation

As long as the AC adaptor is connected to the instrument, the 978 will remain On.

1-4

1.4 Charging the Battery Pack

The 978 is powered by six nickel-cadmium batteries in a removable battery pack. The instrument’s batteries should be charged before use. The unit can be operated while the batteries are being charged.

Before plugging in the AC adaptor, make sure that the voltage indicated on the adaptor complies with the AC line voltage in your area. If not, contact X-Rite or your Authorized Representative.

The instrument batteries should be fully charged in 14 hours and should provide approximately 1000 measurements. Charging the batteries for less than 14 hours will reduce the operating time of the unit. If the unit has not been used for several weeks, recharge for approximately 24 hours.

Charging Tips

* Always run the unit down to the point where the "BATTERIES

LOW" message is displayed. Then charge the unit before the next

message "CHARGE BATTERIES" is displayed.

* Leaving the unit plugged into the AC wall outlet for extended

periods of time (over 48 hours) may shorten the battery life.

* If the instrument is to be stored for an extended period of time (over 6

months), the battery pack should be removed from the unit.

AC Adaptor Connection Procedure

1. Plug the small connector end of the AC adaptor into the adaptor jack on the back of the instrument or the battery pack.

2. Plug the adaptor into the AC wall outlet.

☛ The unit will not lose any of the preset

information (i.e., cal, setups, etc.) if the battery pack is removed.

Wall Outlet

Adaptor

Small Connector

1-5

1.5 Function Selection

There are five measurement functions that can be accessed by pressing

the "FUNCTION" key.

The "PASS/FAIL" and "555" functions are used for Textile QC operation

and are covered in Section 3.

The "SIMPLE COMPARE" and "ABSOLUTE COLOR" functions can be used for scratch pad type measurements. These two functions are covered in Section 4.

- The desired function is selected by repeatedly pressing the [FUNCTION] key. The function name will display first, followed by the last measurement data. The data will display approx. 2-1/2 seconds after the key is released.

☛ The function data displayed will vary depending the Deltas option selected (see Section 7.1). Shown

below is the "Deltas=Numbers" setting which is the default.

FUNCTION = SIMPLE COMPARE

FUNCTION SETUP REF

FUNCTION = ABSOLUTE COLOR

FUNCTION SETUP REF

FUNCTION = PASS / FAIL

FUNCTION SETUP REF

FUNCTION = 555 SHADE TAG

FUNCTION SETUP REF

FUNCTION = 555 & PASS/FAIL

FUNCTION SETUP REF

L*a*b*

a* +.00

L*a*b*

a* +.00

L*a*b* S:1

SAMPLE PASSED

555 S:1

SAMPLE PASSED

L* +.00

b* +.00

L* .00 b* -.00

L* +.00 b* +.00a* +.00

E .00

a* +.00

L*a*b* S:1

a* +.00

E .00

a* +.00

555 S:1 L* +.00

a* +.00

L* +.00 b* +.00

b* +.00

1-6

SECTION 2

INSTRUMENT POSITIONING &

MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUES

The variety of items that the 978 can measure is almost endless. However, in order to obtain accurate and repeatable measurements, the bottom of the shoe must be:

* Parallel with the surface to be measured if the surface is flat. * Tangent to the surface to be measured if the surface is curved.

The reason for this is that any movement during measurement can cause the reading to vary. To obtain the most accurate and repeatable measurements, there are a few guidelines you can follow.

If the item to be measured is smaller than the shoe, you may want to make a platform (the same height of the item) for the instrument to sit on. If the item to measure is curved, you may want to make a jig for the item to rest in.

Shown below and on the next page are some examples of methods used to accomplish this. Example 1 shows a platform for measuring a paint chip. Example 2 shows a jig being used to measure a cup. Example 3 shows a jig being used for measuring a small knob.

☛ A stand is available from X-Rite (P/N 968-80). The stand can hold objects that are a maximum of 4"

inches in width, or 2" inches to the center of the object. Refer to Appendix C for further information about this mounting fixture.

Paint Chip Platform

Measuring a Paint Chip

CORRECT

INCORRECT

2-1

Instrument Positioning & Measurement Techniques . . . continued

Example 2 - Measuring a Coffee Cup

Coffee Cup

CORRECT

Jig

Knob

Example 3 - Measuring a Small Knob

Jig

CORRECT

2-2

SECTION 3

TEXTILE QC OPERATION

Subjects covered in Section 3:

* 3.1 Defining QC Setups * 3.2 Loading QC Setup and Reference Entry * 3.3 Pass/Fail and 555 Shade Tag Measurements

Pass/Fail function displays the difference (numerically or by words) between the reference and sample. After a measurement is taken, a pass or fail signal will then be indicated dependent on the tolerances assigned in the QC Setups.

555 Shade Tagging function allows a means of expressing usable information on different variations of shaded samples. These samples are sorted and placed into selected shade groups. This allows the same color fabric, ceramics, etc. from different manufacture runs to be sorted in shade groups, and used together in final use.

555 Shade Tagging & Pass/Fail function will indicate pass/fail status based on tolerances and display a shade tag number.

When Storage Mode is activated (see Sec. 5), QC measurements can be stored in selected groups and printed.

When the optional bar code reader is used, individual measurements can be tagged. The stored data can then be uploaded to X-Rite’s QA-Master software package.

The "Deltas" option that is set in Operation Options (Sec. 7.1) allows measurement differences to be expressed numerically or by words which indicate color difference direction or intensity. The color difference direction and intensity may indicate that a sample is "lighter", ">>red" (more red), etc. than the sample.

3-1

3.1 Defining QC Setups

Setups must be defined in QA-Master if stored sample data is to be uploaded to QA-Master. Refer

☛

to Section 21 in QA-Master Reference Manual for procedure.

The 978 will store up to 30 individual "setups" with user defined options. This provides a very versatile instrument that can measure a broad range of samples with different tolerancing needs. Simply call up the proper setup number and measure a reference.

The setup operation allows you to:

* Select the setup number * Define color space * Set pass/fail limits * Set shade size and range * Select measurement averaging

After setups are defined, all setups with the exception of "#1" can be "locked out." This will help prevent any inadvertent or unauthorized changes form occurring. Refer to Section 7.1 for setup locking details.

The following descriptions cover all of the available setup options. The setup procedure will follow the descriptions.

Setup Descriptions

Color Space (space) - Is used to select the color space the setup will use

for calculating color differences used in pass/fail and shade sorting. The available options are: ∆L*a*b*, ∆L*C*H*, ∆XYZ, ∆Lab (Hunter), ∆Wht, ∆Yel, and ∆Ecmc.

L*a*b* - is based on the opponent-colors theory of color vision that states: a color cannot be both green and red at the same time, or blue and yellow at the same time. As a result, single values can be used to describe the red/green and the yellow/blue attributes. When a color is displayed in L*a*b*, "L*" defines lightness, "a*" denotes the red/green value, and "b*" the yellow/blue value. The "*" denotes calculation per the CIE Colorimetry Publication 15.2.

3-2

➩

Defining QC Setups . . . continued

L*C*h° - color space is calculated from L*a*b*. The "L*" defines lightness, "C*" specifies chroma, and "h°" denotes hue angle. L*C*h° sometimes offers an advantage over L*a*b* in that it’s easy to relate to the earlier system that is based on physical samples, like the Munsell color space.

XYZ - X, Y and Z are the CIE tristimulus values calculated per ASTM E308-90. X,Y and Z are used in calculating the other color spaces and indices. If the tristimulus values are equal for a given pair of samples, under a specified observer, illuminant, and geometry of illumination and view, the samples will visually match under these conditions.

Lab (Hunter) - is an opponent-colors based system similar to L*a*b*, developed in 1942 by the late Richard Hunter.

Wht - whiteness index is used as a preference rating for how white a material should appear. Whiteness is calculated per ASTM E313 (We) and per CIE 15.2 (W).

Yel - the ASTM’s E313 yellowness index (Ye) is used to determine the amount to which a sample color can shift away from an ideal white. The D1925 yellowness index (Yd) is used for measuring plastics.

CMC - is an acronym for the Colour Measurement Committee of the Society of Dyers and Colourists. CMC equations are mathematical

modifications to the formula used to calculate small color differences or color error (DE) in CIE L*C*h° color space. The purpose of the CMC equations is to appropriately distort the scaling of the L*C*H* (Lightness, Chroma, & Hue) components for the DE (color error) calculation. This provides a much better agreement between human visual assessment and instrumental measurement of small color differences.

A single CMC DE tolerance value describes, in L*C*h° color space, an ellipsoid around the standard color where the semi-axes correspond to the Lightness, Chroma, and Hue of the standard. This ellipsoid represents the "volume of acceptability" for that given color standard with a DE less than or equal to the given tolerance. For any given tolerance, the ellipsoid will vary in both size and shape depending on the position of the standard in L*C*h° color space.

3-3

CMC

➩

Defining QC Setups . . . continued

It is this automatic adjustment to the "volume of acceptability", compensating throughout the color space making CMC tolerancing so desirable, for matching human sensitivity to color difference. The CMC equation is summarized as follows:

The volume of acceptance is defined by DE

≤ cf where:

CMC





∆L

CMC

  









Where SL, Sc, SH are the semi-axes lengths for a 1.0 DE complete equations for generating DE



∆C

  





are desired, see AATCC TEST

CMC

  

∆H













CMC

ellipsoid. (If

Method 173-1989.) The CMC adjustment menu consists of the three parameters that can be

set: Commercial factor (cf), Lightness factor (ι), and Chromaticity factor (c).

* The commercial factor is the tolerance limit that each sample is

not to exceed. (e.g., if cf = 1.00 then any sample which has a ∆E value greater than 1.00 would be commercially unacceptable.) The "cf " will have to be adjusted to meet the requirements of each measuring situation. For example, the color match of formal clothing may require a "cf " of .50 or less. However, a "cf " of

2.00 or more may be an adequate color match when measuring blue denim. A starting point value of .90 for "cf " is recommended.

* The lightness factor is normally set to 2.00 (default) but other

values may be required when surface characteristics differ dramatically. This value of " ι " should be assumed best for textile measurement until actual results indicate a need for adjustment. Increasing " ι " or "c" will increase the tolerance to variations of the lightness or chroma components of the color error respectively.

For the textile industry it is unlikely that the chromaticity factor normally will require any adjustment from the default setting of 1.00.

3-4

Defining QC Setups . . . continued

Illuminant/Observer (illum) - Is used to select the illum/obs combination

that the setup will measure samples under. The available combinations are: C2, C10, D652, D6510, D502, D5010, A2, A10, F22, F210, F72, F710, F112, F1110, F122, and F1210.

Pass/Fail Limits - Are individual limits set on each attribute of the

selected color space. In cases where the DE tolerance method is selected, only one value is entered. The limits can be set from .01 to 9.99. The limit for individual attributes can also be turned "Off" by advancing past

9.99.

Shade Sort Size - The shade sort size are dimensions placed on the color

space attributes. The value represents a three dimensional box in space. These boxes are layered nine deep on each axis and at the center is the 555 reference box. This box represents your reference color. The value in the L*, a*, and b* fields determine the reference box size. Enter a smaller value for a tighter tolerance. Values range from .01 to 9.99.

Shade Sort Range - Determines the range of 555 shade tag boxes to be

used and displayed. The range can be set from 1 to 9 in the three dimensional space.

The 555 Shade Sort Solid System

3-5

Defining QC Setups . . . continued

Averaging - Is used to enter the number of readings (1 - 5) that the

instrument will require to obtain a measurement.

If "Auto Setup" is turned "ON" in Operation Options (Sec. 7.1), individual setup averages will not be

☛

allowed. The Setup will use the global averaging number that is selected in the Auto Setup option (see Sec. 7.1).

Setup Entry Procedure

The following is a step-by-step procedure for defining the setups.

"PASS/FAIL", "555 SHADE TAG", or "555 &

☛

PASS/FAIL" function must be selected in order to access QC Setup function.

1) Repeatedly press [SETUP] to select

the setup # requiring definition.

There is approx. 3 seconds allowed between

☛

depressions of the "SETUP" key before the display returns to normal operation.

SETUP # 1

load

FUNCTION SETUP REF

CAL

(-)

PRESS REPEATEDLY

(+)

STORE

define

( )

2) Press [REF] (define) key to define

selected setup.

Pressing [FUNCTION] will load the selected setup

☛

# data into the unit. See Section 3.2 for more detail. If the lock icon is closed, setup #’s 2-30 can not be changed.

3) Press [FUNCTION] (space) key to

page through available color spaces.

4) Press [REF] (illum) key to page

through available illum/obs combinations.

5) Press [SETUP] (next) key to save

selections and advance to Pass/Fail Limits.

3-6

SETUP # 2

(+)

define

STORE

( )

PRESS

C 2

load

FUNCTION SETUP REF

CAL

(-)

L*a*b*

space illumnext

FUNCTION SETUP REF

L*a*b* L*C*H* XYZ Lab (Hunter) WHT YEL ECMC

CONTINUED

A 2 A 10

F12 10

➩

Defining QC Setups . . . continued

6) Set Pass/Fail Limits.

* Press [REF] (yes) key to indicate

Yes, you do want to Set P/F Limits.

Pressing [FUNCTION] (no) key will bypass P/F

☛

Limit setup and advance to the next setup option.

* Press the [→] key to select

desired attribute to edit.

* Press the [--] key to decrease

the selected value.

* Press the [+] key to increase

selected value.

A default value of "1.00" for each attribute can

☛

easily be set by simultaneously pressing the [FUNCTION] and [SETUP] keys when the cursor is under the attribute. To set the delta E pass/fail value, simultaneously press the [FUNCTION] and [SETUP] keys while the cursor is under the "L" attribute.

* When the cursor is under the

last attribute (far right), press

[→] key one more time to

advance to the next menu.

SET P/F LIMITS ?

FUNCTION SETUP REF

NEXT OPTION

1.00

(-)

DECREASES INCREASES MOVES CURSOR

1.00

CAL STORE

(+)

yes

1.00

( )

& ADVANCES

LIMIT ADJUST

save

FUNCTION SETUP REF

CONTINUED

abort

TO P/F MAIN MENU

* Press [FUNCTION] (save) key to

save P/F limits and advance to next options.

3-7

➩

Defining QC Setups . . . continued

7) Set Shade Size.

* Press [REF] (yes) key to

indicate Yes, you do want to set Shade Size.

Pressing [FUNCTION] (no) key will bypass Shade

☛

Size setup and advance to next option.

* Press the [→] key to select

desired attribute to edit.

* Press the [--] key to decrease

the selected value.

* Press the [+] key to increase

selected value.

* When the cursor is under the

last attribute (far right), press

[→] one more time to advance

to the next menu.

* Press [FUNCTION] (save) key to

save Shade Size and advance to next option.

8) Set Shade Range (1 - 9).

* Press [REF] (yes) key to

indicate Yes, you do want to set Shade Range.

Pressing [FUNCTION] will bypass Shade Range

☛

setup and advance to next option.

* Press the [→] key to select

desired attribute to edit.

* Press the [--] key to decrease

the selected value.

* Press the [+] key to increase

selected value.

SET SHADE SIZE ?

FUNCTION SETUP REF

NEXT OPTION

.50

(-)

DECREASES INCREASES MOVES CURSOR

a* b*

.50

CAL STORE

(+)

yes

.50

( )

& ADVANCES

555 SHADE SIZE

save

FUNCTION SETUP REF

abort

TO SHADE SIZE MAIN MENU

SET SHADE RANGE ?

STORE

yes

1 to 9

( )

& ADVANCES

FUNCTION SETUP REF

NEXT OPTION

1 to 9

(-)

DECREASES INCREASES MOVES CURSOR

a* b*

1 to 9

CAL

(+)

3-8

➩

Defining QC Setups . . . continued

* When the cursor is under the

last attribute (far right), press

[→] key one more time to

advance to the next menu.

* Press [FUNCTION] (save) key to

save Shade Size and advance to next option.

9) Set Averaging (1 - 5).

* Press [REF] (yes) key to

indicate Yes, you do want to set Averaging.

Pressing [FUNCTION] (no) key will exit setup and

☛

return the display to normal operation.

* Press the [--] key to decrease the

average number.

* Press the [+] key to increase the

average number.

* Press [ref] (exit) key to save

averaging number and return the display to normal operation.

1 to 9

(-)

a* b*

1 to 9

CAL

(+)

SHADE RANGE

save

FUNCTION SETUP REF

SET AVERAGING ?

FUNCTION SETUP REF

NORMAL OPERATION

AVERAGING = 1

FUNCTION SETUP REF

CAL STORE

(-)

DECREASES INCREASES

(+)

STORE

1 to 9

( )

abort

yes

exit

( )

TO SHADE RANGE MAIN MENU

SAVE & EXIT

The setup procedure may be exited at any time by

☛

closing the shoe to the instrument. Setup changes that were made before exiting will be saved.

3-9

3.2 Loading QC Setup and Reference Entry

The 978 will store a separate reference for each of 30 Setups. The

reference will remain with the selected "Setup" until changed.

When the "AUTO SETUP" option in Sec. 7.1 is set to "OFF", references

can be either measured or manually entered. When "AUTO SETUP" is set to

"ON", references can only be measured. A reference is set after the Setup is

"loaded" into the display.

Loading a QC Setup

Make sure that either "PASS/FAIL", 555 SHADE TAG", or "555 & PASS/FAIL" function is

☛

selected before attempting to load a Setup. Refer to Section 1.5 for function select information if required.

1) Repeatedly press [SETUP] to select

the setup # to load.

There is approx. 3 seconds allowed between

☛

depressions of the "SETUP" key before the display returns to normal operation.

SETUP # 3

load

FUNCTION SETUP REF

PRESS REPEATEDLY

define

Setup #’s can be decremented by pressing and holding the [SETUP] key, then pressing the [FUNCTION] key.

2) After desired setup is displayed,

press [FUNCTION] (load) key to load setup.

Reference Measurement

After the desired Setup is loaded, a

reference can be set.

1) Press the [REF] key to enter

reference function.

"SET REFERENCE" is display then

the reference menu.

- Continue with Step 2 to manually enter reference values, or advance to Step 3 to measure a reference.

3-10

SETUP # 3

LOADED!

E .00

a* +.00

FUNCTION SETUP REF

SET REFERENCE

L* +.00

b* +.00

SELECT

exitenter read

➩

Loading QC Setup and Reference Measurement . . . continued

2) Manual Reference Entry

- Press the [FUNCTION] (enter) key.

If "AUTO SETUP" is set to "ON" in Sec. 7.1,

☛

manual references can not be entered. "view" will display instead of "enter."

- Press [→] key to move cursor to

desired attribute. The "arrow" key is also used to exit manually entry.

- Press the [+] key to increase value.

- Press the [-] key to decrease value.

3) Reference Measurement

- Press the [SETUP] (read) key.

- Position target window over reference to be measured.

- Lower unit to target window and hold compressed.

SELECT

exitenter read

FUNCTION SETUP REF

L*a*b* s:1 a* +.00

CAL STR

(-)

L* +.00 b* +.00

(+)

INCREASEDECREASE MOVE CUSOR

( )

& EXIT

SELECT

exitenter read

FUNCTION SETUP REF

READ REFERENCE

exit

"READING REFERENCE" is

displayed. Release unit after

"READING COMPLETE" is displayed.

If an error message occurs during the

☛

measurement, try reading reference sample again. If error message still occurs, refer to Display Message in Appendix B.

4) The reference data is entered and the instrument automatically returns back to QC operation. Refer to Section 3.3 for QC measurement operation.

Target Window

3-11

3.3 Pass/Fail and 555 Shade Tag Measurements

The 978 will display three QC measurement functions: pass/fail, 555 shade tag, and pass/fail & 555 shade tag. Once a measurement is taken, it can be viewed under any of the three measurement functions.

There are three methods that can be used to express the measured differences. The first method is by showing the differences numerically. The second method is by expressing the difference using words (see below). XYZ, Wht, and Yel will not display differences in words. The third method is Deltas turned "Off." This will cause only a Pass/Fail or 555 indication to display. Delta selection for "numbers", "words", or "off" is selected in Operation Options, Section 7.1.

When delta words are used, the "L*" attribute for L*a*b* or L*C*H* will display either "LIGHTER" or "DARKER" from the reference. The "a*" and "b*" attributes for L*a*b* and the "H*" (hue) attribute for L*C*H* will display as ">>RED", ">>GRN", >>BLU", or ">>YEL." This is an indication of what color direction the attribute is towards. For L*C*H*, the "C*" (chroma) attribute will display as "BRIGHTER" or "DULLER."

No words will display for an attribute that is less than ‘‘1/7th’’ of the Delta E value. A value less than

☛

this amount is considered insignificant compared to the total difference.

If the delta value for any attribute is greater than 10.00, the display will change to numeric values.

Pass/Fail Only Function

The pass/fail function will indicate a pass or fail on the selected setup , and display the difference between the reference & sample.

Pass/Fail Display Examples

∆L*C*H* Delta Numbers

L*C*H* S:1

SAMPLE PASSED

L*C*H* S:1 L* +.03

C* -.08

E .11 L* +.03

C* -.08 H* -.07

H* -.07

SETUP #1

3-12

∆L*C*H* Delta Words

E .11

SAMPLE PASSED

E .11 LIGHTER

BRIGHTER

>>RED

Pass/Fail and 555 Shade Tag Measurements . . . continued

555 Shade Tag Only Function

The 555 shade tag function will display a 3 digit number (with 555 being the reference) based on the selected shade size and shade range parameters set.

555 Shade Tag Display Examples

∆L*C*H* Delta Numbers

545 S:1

L* +.04

C* -.38 H* -.07

SETUP NUMBER 1

∆L*C*H* Delta Words

565 S:1

DULLER

SHADE TAG

LIGHTER

>>RED

If an up arrow "↑" or down "↓" arrow appears in the place of a shade tag number, this indicates the direction that the tag number is out of range.

Pass/Fail & 555 Shade Tag Function

The pass/fail & 555 will display a shade tag number and pass or fail indication based on the tolerances set.

Pass/Fail & 555 Shade Tag Display Examples

∆L*C*H* Delta Numbers ∆L*C*H* Delta Words

565 S:1

SAMPLE PASSED

SETUP #

565 S:1 SAMPLE PASSED

SHADE TAG

565 S:1 C* +.56

L* +.05

H* +.09

3-13

565 S:1

BRIGHTER

LIGHTER

>>GRN

Pass/Fail and 555 Shade Tag Measurements . . . continued

To take a QC measurement:

Defining Setups (Sec. 3.1) must be performed before continuing with this procedure.

☛

If QC measurement are to be Stored in the instrument, refer to Section 5 for Storage selection procedure.

The following procedure will guide you through all the steps required to take a setup measurement. Measurement tagging using the optional bar code reader will be covered in Tagging and Storing Operation, Section 5.4.

1) Make sure "PASS/FAIL", "555

SHADE TAG", or "555 & PASS/FAIL"

is selected. Repeatedly press

[SETUP] key to select setup.

2) Press [FUNCTION] (load) key to load

the selected Setup.

The [FUNCTION] (load) key must be pressed

☛

within 3-sec. or the display will revert back to

operation mode.

If a reference does not exist for the selected

setup, refer to Section 3.2 for measurement

procedure.

3) Press the [FUNCTION] key to select

"PASS/FAIL", "555 SHADE TAG", or "555 & PASS/FAIL"

SETUP # 1

(+)

define

STORE

( )

load

FUNCTION SETUP REF

(-)

CAL

PRESS REPEATEDLY

SETUP # 2

load

FUNCTION SETUP REF

define

SETUP # 2 LOADED!

FUNCTION = PASS / FAIL

FUNCTION SETUP REF

The display function can be changed after a

☛

measurement is taken to view sample data in a

different function.

3-14

PASS/FAIL 555 SHADE TAG 555 & PASS/FAIL

➩

Pass/Fail and 555 Shade Tag Measurements . . . continued

The display will show the last measurement data with selected setup and function.

4) Position instrument on sample to

measure.

5) Lower unit to target window and

hold compressed.

Release unit from sample after

"READING COMPLETE" is displayed.

545 S:2 C* -.42

FUNCTION SETUP REF

Target Window

L* +.24

H* -.07

If an error message occurs during the

☛

measurement, try reading sample again. If error message still occurs, refer to Display Message in Appendix B.

Passed sample using delta numbers and pass/fail & 555 function

- 3 short beeps will be heard to indicate passed sample.

- For shade "645", "6" represents the "L" attribute, "4" represents the "a" attribute, and "5" represents the "b" attribute.

3-15

645 S:1

SAMPLE PASSED

645 S:1 C* -.42 H* -.05

L* +.44

➩

Pass/Fail and 555 Shade Tag Measurements . . . continued

Failed sample using delta numbers and pass/fail & 555 function

- 1 long beep will be heard to indicate failed sample.

- When a tag number (L*, a*, or b*) is out of range (depending on setting), an arrow will indicate the direction. The "↑" arrow indicates over and the "↓" arrow indicates below. The fail signal is based on tolerance values assigned to Setup #3.

The [REF] (continue) key must be pressed to

☛

continued to next display screen, if "WAIT ON FAIL" option is set to "On." Refer to Section 7.1

Operation Options for more details.

Passed sample using delta words and pass/fail & 555 function

- 3 short beeps will be heard to indicate passed sample.

- "Delta Words" is selected in Operation Options, Section 7. The sample passed, but is slightly

"LIGHTER", "DULLER", and towards "RED."

SAMPLE FAILED !

FUNCTION SETUP REF

25 S:3

C* -1.60

655 S:2

DULLER

continue

L* -8.42

H* +.04

LIGHTER

>>RED

If any attribute matches the reference exactly, no

☛

description will be given for that attribute.

➩

3-16

Pass/Fail and 555 Shade Tag Measurements . . . continued

Failed sample using delta words and pass/fail & 555 function

- 1 long beep will be heard to indicate failed sample.

- The display indicates that the sample is "LIGHTER", "BRIGHTER", and towards "RED."

The [REF] (continue) key must be pressed to

☛

continue to next display screen, if "WAIT ON FAIL" option is set to "On." Refer to Section 7.1

Operation Options for more details.

SAMPLE FAILED !

FUNCTION SETUP REF

9 3 S:6 BRIGHTER

continue

LIGHTER

>> RED

3-17

SECTION 4

ABSOLUTE COLOR &

SIMPLE COMPARE OPERATION

Subjects covered in Section 4:

* 4.1 Absolute Color and Simple Compare Setup * 4.2 Simple Compare Reference Entry * 4.3 Absolute Color and Simple Compare Measurements

The 978 has two alternate measurement functions that can be selected:

Absolute Color and Simple Compare. These two functions can be used for "scratch pad" measurement operation. The color space, illum/obs combination, and averaging can be set for these functions.

4.1 Absolute Color and Simple Compare Setup

The color space, illum/obs, and averaging can be set for absolute color

and simple compare measurements. The two functions share the same setup procedure. If a QC function is selected (i.e.; pass/fail, 555), the absolute color and simple compare settings will change to the last QC setup selected.

To setup functions:

1) Press the [FUNCTION] key to select

"ABSOLUTE COLOR" or "SIMPLE COMPARE."

4-1

FUNCTION = ABSOLUTE COLOR

FUNCTION SETUP REF

ABSOLUTE COLOR SIMPLE COMPARE

➩

Absolute Color and Simple Compare Setup

2) Press the [SETUP] key to enter setup

selection menu.

3) Press the [FUNCTION] (space) key to

increment through available illuminant/observer combinations.

4) Press the [REF] (illum) key to

increment through available illum/obs combinations.

5) Press the [SETUP] (next) key to save

options and advance to measurement averaging selection.

L*C*h C* .00

FUNCTION SETUP REF

L*C*h

space

FUNCTION SETUP REF

L*a*b* L*C*h XYZ Lab (Hunter) WHT YEL ECMC

PRESS

L* .00

h .00

C 2

illumnext

A 2 A 10

F12 10

AVERAGING = 1

exit

FUNCTION SETUP REF

6) Set Averaging (1 - 5). * Press the [--] key to decrease

the average number.

* Press the [+] key to increase the

average number.

* Press [ref] (exit) key to save

averaging number and return the display to normal operation.

4-2

AVERAGING = 1

exit

FUNCTION SETUP REF

DECREASE INCREASE

CAL STORE

(-)

(+)

SAVE & EXIT

( )

4.2 Simple Compare Reference Entry

A single reference can be measured or manually entered for the Simple Compare function. If a reference is set while Absolute Color is selected, the 978 will automatically switch the function to Simple Compare.

To set a reference:

1) Press [FUNCTION] key to select

"SIMPLE COMPARE."

2) Press [REF] key to enter reference

function.

"SET REFERENCE" is displayed then

the reference menu.

- Continue with Step 3 to manually enter reference values, or advance to Step 4 to measure a reference.

3) Manual Reference Entry

- Press the [FUNCTION] (enter) key.

If "AUTO SETUP" is set to "ON" in Sec. 7.1,

☛

manual references can not be entered. "view" will display instead of "enter."

- Press [→] key to move cursor to

desired attribute. The "arrow" key is also used to exit manually entry.

- Press the [+] key to increase value.

- Press the [-] key to decrease value.

FUNCTION = SIMPLE COMPARE

FUNCTION SETUP REF

PRESS

E .00

C* +.00

FUNCTION SETUP REF

L* +.00

H* +.00

SET REFERENCE

SELECT

exitenter read

SELECT

exitenter read

FUNCTION SETUP REF

L*C*h C* +.00

CAL STORE

(-)

h +.00

(+)

L* +.00

( )

4-3

INCREASEDECREASE

MOVE CUSOR & EXIT

➩

Simple Compare Reference Entry . . . continue

4) Reference Measurement

- Press the [SETUP] (read) key.

- Position target window over reference to be measured. Lower unit to target window and hold compressed.

"READING REFERENCE" is

displayed. Release unit after

"READING COMPLETE" is displayed.

If an error message occurs during the

☛

measurement, try reading reference sample again. If error message still occurs, refer to Display Message in Appendix B.

SELECT

exitenter read

FUNCTION SETUP REF

READ REFERENCE

exit

Reference

5) The reference data is entered and the instrument automatically returns

back to Simple Compare function.

Refer to Section 4.3 for measurement operation.

4-4

4.3 Absolute Color and Simple Compare Measurements

If Absolute Color or Simple Compare measurements are to be stored in the instrument, refer to

☛

Section 5 for selection procedure.

To take a measurement:

1) Press [FUNCTION] key to select

"ABSOLUTE COLOR" or "SIMPLE COMPARE."

2) Position target window over

sample to be measured. Lower the unit to the target window and hold compressed.

"READING SAMPLE" is

displayed. Release unit after

"READING COMPLETE" is

displayed.

3) The measurement data is

displayed. The measurement data can be viewed in Simple Compare or Absolute Color by pressing the [FUNCTION] key and selecting function.

FUNCTION = ABSOLUTE COLOR

FUNCTION SETUP REF

ABSOLUTE COLOR SIMPLE COMPARE

Sample

L*C*H*

C* -.86

E .95

C* -.86

FUNCTION SETUP REF

L* -.38

H* -.13

L* -.38

H* -.13

The Simple Compare reference will be

☛

overwritten if a QC function (i.e.; pass/fail, etc.) is selected.

PRESS

4-5

SECTION 5

STORAGE OPERATION

Subjects covered in Section 5:

* 5.1 Selecting Storage and Group Numbers * 5.2 Printing Stored Measurements * 5.3 Deleting Stored Measurements * 5.4 Tagging and Storing Operation (Optional)

The 978 has the capability of storing measurement data. The stored data can be output to a printer or uploaded to X-Rite’s QA-Master software package for analysis.

Stored sample measurements can also have scanned tags attached by use of the optional bar code reader (BCR). Group names can be assigned by scanning a tag. Individual measurements can have from 1 to 6 tags attached.

5.1 Selecting Storage and Group Number

The 978 can store a total of 300 measurements in 1 to 20 selected groups.

To select storage mode and group number:

1) Simultaneously press the [SETUP]

key and [REF] key.

"DATA STORAGE" menu is displayed.

2) Press the [FUNCTION] (on/OFF) to

activate storage mode.

A key must be pressed within 3 seconds or the

☛

display will revert back to normal operation.

5-1

L*C*h

C* 18.57 h 50.82

FUNCTION SETUP REF

CAL

(-)

DATA STORAGE

on/OFF

FUNCTION SETUP REF

CONTINUED

L* 31.86

(+)

STORE

( )

➩

Selecting Storage and Group Number

3) Press [REF] (group) key to enter

group selection.

4) Press [SETUP] (next) to select

desired group.

Group numbers can be decremented by pressing

☛

and holding the [SETUP] key, then pressing [FUNCTION] key.

5) Press [REF] (exit) to save group

selection and exit out of Data Storage mode.

6) All measurements taken in any

function will now be stored in the selected group.

DATA STORAGE

ON/off

FUNCTION SETUP REF

del

group

DATA GROUP 1

edit

FUNCTION SETUP REF

exit

SAVE & EXIT

5-2

5.2 Printing Stored Measurements

The 978 has the ability to output stored measurement data directly to a serial printer or computer. The printout format options in Section 7.3 dictates what format data is output during a printout. Individual groups or all measurements can be printed.

To print stored measurements:

1) Refer to Section 7.2 and 7.3 to set

I/O and Printout Options.

DATA STORAGE

2) In Storage Mode, press the [REF]

(group) key.

- The [SETUP] (del) key can be pressed if all groups are to be printed.

3) Press the [SETUP] (next) key to

select individual group to print-out.

ON/off

FUNCTION SETUP REF

DATA GROUP 1

edit

FUNCTION SETUP REF

del

group

exit

4) Press the [FUNCTION] (del) key to

enter "PRINT DATA" menu.

5) Select printout type (single or all).

- Press [SETUP] (single) key to printout selected group data. Press

[REF] (all) key to printout all stored

data.

6) Press the [FUNCTION] (no) key to

save stored data. Press [REF] (yes) key to clear stored data from the instrument.

Refer to Section 5.3 for additional information on

☛

deletion procedures.

5-3

SELECT GROUP

PRINT DATA ?

no single

FUNCTION SETUP REF

SEC.

5.3

PRINTING GROUP

# OF #

PRINTING GROUPS

# OF #

CLEAR DATA ?

no yes

FUNCTION SETUP REF

all

5.3 Deleting Stored Measurements

The 978 has three delete methods available.

* Delete Last will delete the last measurement taken. * Delete Group removes all stored measurements in the selected

group.

* Delete All will delete all stored measurements in all twenty groups.

Delete Last

To delete last measurement:

1) At "DATA STORAGE" menu, press

[SETUP] (del) key.

The "PRINT ALL DATA?" menu is displayed showing 10 readings.

2) Press [FUNCTION] (no) key.

The "DELETE LAST?" menu is displayed showing 10 readings.

3) Press [REF] (yes) key to delete last

measurement.

"LAST DELETED" then "DELETE LAST?" menu is displayed again

showing 9 reading.

4) Additional measurements can be

deleted by repeating Step 3.

DATA STORAGE

ON/off

FUNCTION SETUP REF

PRINT ALL DATA ?

FUNCTION SETUP REF

DELETE LAST ?

no 10

FUNCTION SETUP REF

LAST DELETED

DELETE LAST ?

no 9

del

group

yes

SEC. 5.2

5-4

Deleting Stored Measurements . . . continued

Delete Group

To delete group measurements:

1) At "DATA STORAGE" menu, press

[REF] (group) key.

2) Press [SETUP] (next) key to select

group number for deletion.

3) Press [FUNCTION] (edit) key.

4) Press [FUNCTION] (no) key to access

"CLEAR DATA" menu.

5) Press [REF] (yes) key to clear

measurement data in the selected group.

DATA STORAGE

ON/off

FUNCTION SETUP REF

del

group

DATA GROUP 1

edit

FUNCTION SETUP REF

SELECT GROUP

exit

PRINT DATA ?

no single

FUNCTION SETUP REF

all

SEC. 5.2

CLEAR DATA ?

FUNCTION SETUP REF

yes

The instrument will return to normal operation automatically.

5-5

CLEAR DATA ?

CLEARED

NORMAL OPERATION

Deleting Stored Measurements . . . continued

Delete All

To delete all stored measurements:

1) At "DATA STORAGE" menu, press

[SETUP] (del) key.

DATA STORAGE

ON/off

FUNCTION SETUP REF

del

group

The "PRINT ALL DATA?" menu is displayed showing 10 readings.

2) Press [FUNCTION] (no) key.

The "DELETE LAST?" menu is displayed showing 10 readings.

3) Press [FUNCTION] (no) key.

The "CLEAR ALL" menu is displayed showing 10 stored reading.

4) Press the [REF] (yes) key.

"DATA CLEARED" is displayed.

5) "GROUPS=DEFAULTS?" is displayed.

- Press [FUNCTION] (no) key to keep preset group names (i.e.; names set in X-Rite’s QA-Master).

- Press [REF] (yes) key to reset name to factory defaults (i.e.; Data Group 1, etc.).

PRINT ALL DATA ?

FUNCTION SETUP REF

DELETE LAST ?

FUNCTION SETUP REF

CLEAR ALL ?

FUNCTION SETUP REF

DATA CLEARED

GROUPS=DEFAULTS?

FUNCTION SETUP REF

DEFAULTS SET

yes

The instrument will return to normal operation automatically.

5-6

NORMAL OPERATION

5.4 Tagging and Storing Operation (Optional)

Tags are entered by scanning. If you intend to use the optional Bar Code Reader (BCR), we

☛

suggest that you read Section 9 before continuing with this tagging operation.

Tags are used as a method to label stored measurement samples for identification. The sample data can then be printed or uploaded to X-Rite’s QA-Master® software program with tags applied. Refer to the last two pages of this Section for special features that exist when tags are used.

Individual measurements can have from 1 to 6 tags attached. There are three tag options to select from once a tag is scanned.

Tag All - This option will only appear on the instruments display when

no measurement data is stored in the instrument. Any measurement that

is taken after "all" is selected will have the scanned tag attached.

Tag Group - This option will only appear on the instruments display

when a new group is selected that has no stored measurements. Any

measurement taken in that group after "group" is selected will have the

scanned tag attached. The first tag that is scanned under group will also

be used as the group name on the instrument.

Tag Next - This option will store the scanned tag with the next sample

that is measured.

When the stored measurement data from the instrument is uploaded to X-Rite’s QA-Master software program, all tags that were attached will also transfer.

To tag and store a measurement:

1) Make sure instrument is in "Storage Mode" and select "Group #" (see Section 5.1).

2) Select "Setup #" and/or "Function" that will be used (see Sec. 3.2 & Sec.

1.5).

3) Connect Bar Code Reader to I/O port if not already connected, and scan desired bar code. Refer to Section 9 to attach or if scan did not work correctly.

➩

5-7

Tagging and Storing Operation (Optional) . . . continued

4) The bar code name should appear on

the first line of the display.

Tag All

- Press [REF] (yes) key if every measurement that is to be stored will receive the scanned tag. Press

[FUNCTION] (no) key to advance to "TAG GROUP" option.

"TAG ALL?" will not appear if any measurements

☛

have previously been stored.

Tag Group

- Press [REF] (yes) if all measurements in the selected group will have the same scanned tag. Press [FUNCTION] (no) key to advance to "TAG NEXT" option.

If a group is not named and "TAG GROUP" is

☛

selected, the scanned tag name will take the place of the data group # in the instrument. "TAG GROUP" will not appear if any measurements have previously been stored in the group.

WHITE SAMPLE

TAG ALL?

FUNCTION SETUP REF

WHITE SAMPLE

no yes

TAG GROUP

FUNCTION SETUP REF

yes

Tag Next

- Press [REF] (yes) if the measurement to follow will be the only sample with the scanned tag attached.

- A total of "6" tags can be attached to each measurement. The total of "6" tags includes combinations of

"ALL", "GROUP", and "NEXT" tag

selections.

5-8

WHITE SAMPLE

no yes

TAG NEXT?

FUNCTION SETUP REF

E .05

a* -.04

L* -.04

b* +.00

➩

Tagging and Storing Operation (Optional) . . . continued

5) Scan additional bar codes if more are

required for "ALL", GROUP", or

"NEXT" samples.

6) Take reading by lowering the unit to

the target window on the sample.

7) Lift unit off of sample after

"READING COMPLETE" is displayed.

The measurement is stored with the scanned tag.

5-9

READING

SAMPLE

READING

COMPLETE

E .15

SAMPLE PASS

DATA STORED

1 OF 300

E .15

a* +.04

L* -.07 b* -.00

Tagging and Storing Operation (Optional) . . . continued

QA-Master Group and Setup Name Special Feature

The 978 has a unique feature that allows the user to automatically switch

to a "setup" or "group" that uses the same name as the scanned tag.

For example, if "Setup #5" is named "Light Blue #6" and the scanned

tag has the same name, the 978 will display "no SELECT? yes." Pressing the [REF] (yes) key allows you to switch to that setup if desired. Downloaded "group names" work in the same manner.

Pressing [REF] (yes) key will switch the display to "GROUP SELECTED"

LIGHT BLUE #6

FUNCTION SETUP REF

TO NORMAL TAG OPTIONS

SELECT?

LIGHT BLUE #6 GROUP SELECTED

yes

LIGHT BLUE #6 SETUP SELECTED

or "SETUP SELECTED" depending which has the same downloaded name.

Press [FUNCTION] (no) key will switch the display to the "TAG" options.

Pressing this key will store the scanned tag with the originally selected "setup" or "group."

The "setup" key and "group" key will only appear if tags that are scanned have the same names as

☛

downloaded "group names" or "setup names."

Avoid naming groups and setups the same. If a group and setup are named the same, the first "select" screen will be for the setup. Both select screens will look the same.

5-10

Tagging and Storing Operation (Optional) . . . continued

QA-Master Sample Tagging Special Feature

Remotely measured samples have the ability to be assigned with Accept/Reject status using the BCR tagging option. This feature is desirable if the "Sample Data Control" window is used in QA-Master. Uploaded samples in QA-Master can be given the desired Accept/Reject status.

Notes:

* To assign a sample with Accept/Reject status, a tag must be

scanned with the respective name before the measurement is taken.

* The sample status ACCEPT, REJECT, or UNDETERMINED must be

scanned in as capital letters.

* If a sample is assigned both "ACCEPT" and "REJECT" status, the

sample will be uploaded as "UNDETERMINED."

5-11

SECTION 6

CALIBRATION

Subjects covered in Section 6:

* 6.1 Positioning the Instrument on the White Standard * 6.2 Calibration Procedure

The 978 should be calibrated to the X-Rite standard the first thing each day and every four hours of operation thereafter. However, a "NEED

CALIBRATION" message will appear in the display if:

* The calibration procedure has not been performed for 24 hours. * There is a 10°C change in temperature since the last calibration. * Zero reflectance is measured improperly. * The lamp output changes.

Whenever this message appears the calibration procedure should be performed before another measurement is taken to ensure accuracy.

Calibration Notes

- Dirt or dust in the optics area will cause an inaccurate calibration

reading. Refer to Section 8.2 for the optics cleaning procedure.

- The ceramic Reflection Standard is dramatically affected by smudge

marks, dust, and finger prints. The standard should be cleaned using a

mild soap and warm water solution, thoroughly rinsed with warm

water, and wiped dry with a lint free cloth. You must let the standard

dry completely before taking a calibration reading.

- If you are having linearity problems it’s possible that there is dust in the optics or Zero Reflectance has drifted. If you improperly measure Zero Reflectance the unit can not automatically detect the drift. If you suspect this is the case, you should manually activate Read Zero Reflectance. Refer to Read Zero Reflectance in Section 6.2.

- Do not move the 978 while taking a calibration measurement. If motion is detected an error message will be displayed and calibration aborted.

6-1

6.1 Positioning the Instrument on the White Standard

You must set the 978 on the white standard so that the maximum amount of the bottom rubber pad of the shoe resides on the standard, and the target is centered on the circle. If you do not, the unit may rock slightly and cause an erroneous reading of the standard.

- Center the target window on the White circle, making sure that the rubber pad is completely on the standard and is down flat.

White Circle

CORRECT!

Rubber Pad

Bottom View

➩

6-2

Positioning the Instrument on the White Standard . . . continued

Shown below is an IMPROPER METHOD of measuring the standard.

INCORRECT!

Bottom View

6-3

Positioning the Instrument on the White Standard . . . continued

X-Rite Reflection Standard

X-Rite

Reflection Standard Part No. 968-100 Serial No. 000101 Date XX/XX/XX

WAVELENGTH

[nm]

390 400 410 420 430 440 450 460 480 500 520 540 560 580 600 620 640 660 680 700 710

CALIBRATION CHECK

Illuminant C 2 Observer

STEP

White

IMPORTANT!

The standard is dramatically affected by smudge marks and dust; and must be kept clean.

REFLECTANCE

83.82 85.37

[%]

68.37

75.93

81.34

82.40

83.32

83.82

84.13

84.75

85.37

85.71

86.03

85.80

85.67

85.32

84.86

84.30

83.74

83.21

82.49

81.87

81.60

99.98

The Calibration Values for the white spot are affected by the

environment and cleaning method of the standard.

The white spot has the XYZ values set at the factory. If the white spot

does not measure correctly, it could be that the unit needs to be calibrated; there is dust in the optics; or the standard has smudge marks or is dirty.

The ceramic standard should be cleaned using a mild soap and warm

water solution, thoroughly rinsed with warm water, and wiped dry with a clean, lint free cloth.

If you lose your envelope, you can obtain the calibration values from the back page of this manual.

☛

Otherwise, you can contact X-Rite with the serial number of your standard and get the values.

6-4

6.2 Calibration Procedure

Reading the White Standard

1) Make sure white calibration

standard is clean (see Sec. 6.1).

2) Press [FUNCTION] key and [SETUP]

key simultaneously.

3) Press [REF] (yes) key to select

calibration.

The copyright and software version are momentarily displayed.

"READ CAL WHITE" is displayed.

Pressing the [FUNCTION] (exit) key will exit

☛

calibration procedure with no change occurring. Pressing the [REF] (change) key will allow you to

manually change the cal white spectral values (refer to end of this section for procedure).

(+)

L* 90.35

b*12.78

STORE

( )

L*a*b*

a* +3.85

FUNCTION SETUP REF

CAL

(-)

PRESS SIMULTANEOUSLY

CALIBRATE?

FUNCTION SETUP REF

X-Rite

yes

Ver XXXX

READ CAL WHITE

changeexit

FUNCTION SETUP REF

SEE CHANGE CAL VALUES

4) Position the instrument on the white

standard and take measurement. Refer to Section 6.1 for additional information.

The instrument must be held depressed until all

☛

five readings have be completed.

6-5

White Spot

➩

Calibration Procedure . . . continued

"CAL READING 1 OF 5" thru "CAL

READING 5 OF 5" is displayed; then "CALIBRATION UPDATED." The

procedure is finalized and the unit returns back to main menu.

During the Cal Reading, the read head must

☛

remain down and stable or an error message may occur.

If "PLEASE WAIT XX (1-30) SECONDS" is displayed during calibration, continue to hold read head down until calibration readings are over. This will only occur if the calibration procedure is performed within 30 seconds of a previous measurement.

If "READ ZERO REFLECTANCE" is displayed after reading the white spot, refer to zero

reflectance procedure (next page). This will only occur if the calibration values for zero reflectance have drifted.

CAL READING

1 OF 5

CAL READING

2 OF 5

CAL READING

3 OF 5

CAL READING

4 OF 5

CAL READING

5 OF 5

CALIBRATION

UPDATED

6-6

Calibration Procedure . . . continued

Reading Zero Reflectance

The following procedure is only necessary if "READ ZERO

REFLECTANCE" is displayed, or you want to manually activate Zero

Reflectance Measurement.

Zero Reflectance is defined as, "measuring air with no ambient light."

This can be accomplished by holding the unit depressed (take a reading) in a dark room. In most cases, it is possible to just take a reading under a desk with no direct light. An optional Black Trap (part number SP68-105) can also be used to measure zero reflectance.

To manually activate zero reflectance:

1) At the Calibrate? menu, press

[FUNCTION] (no) key.

2) Press the [REF] (yes) key.

"READ ZERO REFL" is displayed.

3) Measure zero reflectance.

Pressing the [REF] (abort) key will exit zero

☛

reflectance menu.

CALIBRATE?

FUNCTION SETUP REF

SET ZERO REFL?

FUNCTION SETUP REF

READ ZERO REFL

FUNCTION SETUP REF

yes

abort

6-7

Calibration Procedure . . . continued

Change Cal Spectral Values

The following procedure is only necessary when you want to calibrate to a

different standard. Reflectance values from 390nm to 710nm can be changed.

To change cal values:

1) At the Calibrate? menu, press [REF]

(yes) key to select calibration.

The copyright and software version are momentarily displayed.

"READ CAL WHITE" is displayed.

2) Press the [REF] (change) key.

"NEW CAL VALUES?" is displayed.

3) Enter New Cal Values.

* Press the [REF] (yes) key to

indicate Yes, you do want to Set New Cal Values.

Pressing [FUNCTION] (no) key will advance to

☛

changing aperture procedure (see Sec. 8.6).

* Press the [next] key to advance

to next value.

CALIBRATE?

FUNCTION SETUP REF

X-Rite

yes

Ver XXXX

1993

READ CAL WHITE

changeexit

FUNCTION SETUP REF

NEW CAL VALUES ?

FUNCTION SETUP REF

SEE SEC. 8.6.

yes

SET 390nm VALUE

STORE

( )

54.56

FUNCTION SETUP REF

CAL

(-)

(+)

* Press the [--] key to decrease

value.

* Press the [+] key to increase

DECREASE

value.

4) Press [REF] (next) key once more

after 710nm is displayed to advance to white cal procedure. A cal procedure must be performed.

6-8

INCREASE

390nm 400nm

710nm

SECTION 7

SETTING SYSTEM CONFIGURATION

The system configuration allows you to customize the instrument to meet your application requirements. The configuration should be set before any measurements are taken.

Subjects covered in Section 7 are:

* 7.1 Setting Operation Options * 7.2 Setting I/O Options * 7.3 Setting Printout Format Options

7.1 Setting Operation Options

There are three options that can be configured to meet your requirements. Below is a description of each feature followed by the selection procedure.

Deltas - When set to "Numbers", any ∆L*a*b*, ∆L*C*H*, or ∆E

difference measurement will display deltas numerically. When set to "Words", any ∆L*a*b*, ∆L*C*H*, ∆E display deltas as words (e.g., "brighter", "duller", ">>red", etc.). The "Off" setting will only display ∆E or Shade Tag number.

Lock Setups - The lock option allows all setup #’s (except setup #1) to

be locked. This will avoid any inadvertent or unauthorized changes from occurring. When the setups are locked, the options can still be viewed but no changes can occur. A lock icon will display closed when the setup options are not changeable.

Auto Setup - when "auto setup" is enabled, the 978 will automatically

select the closest setup match when a sample is measured. The closest match is based on the "setup" reference and D65°10 illum/obs. Because illum/obs selection can vary between setups, a single illum/obs is used for "auto setup" operation. Once the closest match is found, the individual parameters (tolerance, illum/obs, etc.) of a setup will be

7-1

difference measurement will

CMC

➩

Setting Operation Options . . . continued

used (except averaging value). Enabling "auto setup" will allow you to select a global averaging measurement number (1- 5). The number selected will override any number selected for individual "setups." Because a measured reference is generated from a reflectance curve, manual reference entry is not allowed when "auto setup" is activated.

If any manually entered references exist in the instrument, a "CLEAR MANUAL REFS" message

☛

will display if you attempt to turn on Auto Setup. Manual references must first be cleared before "auto setup" can be activated.

Setup Limit - determines the number of "setups" that are available. Up to

"30" setups can be selected. The factory default setting is "30."

Group Limit - determines the number of "groups" that are available. Up

to "20" groups can be selected. The factory default setting is "20."

Wait On Fail - When the "Wait On Fail" option is set to "On", a key must

be pressed on the instrument to continue with measurement operation. This occurs in pass/fail operation when a measurement fails. When the option is set to "Off", an error alarm will be heard on a failed measurement but no key depression is required.

To configure operation options:

The configuration can be exited at any time by pressing [FUNCTION] key and [SETUP] key

☛

simultaneously.

1) Press the [FUNCTION] key and

[SETUP] key simultaneously.

2) Press [FUNCTION] (no) two times.

7-2

E .85

a* -.24 b* -.31

FUNCTION SETUP REF

CALIBRATE ?

no yes

FUNCTION SETUP REF

PRESS TWO TIMES

L* +.76

➩

Setting Operation Options . . . continued

3) Press the [REF] (yes) key to enter

Operation Options.

4) Select Deltas option. Repeatedly

pressing the [REF] (other) key increments through: "NUMBERS",

"OFF", and "WORDS."

After making selection, press the

[FUNCTION] (next) key to save

setting and advance to next option.

5) Select Lock option. Simultaneously

press the [SETUP] key and [REF] key. Lower unit to shoe to close read switch. Each time this procedure is performed, the display will alternate between "LOCK SETUPS?" and

"UNLOCK SETUPS?."

After making selection, press the

[FUNCTION] (next) key to save

setting and advance to next option.

SET OPERATION?

no yes

FUNCTION SETUP REF

DELTAS = NUMBERS

FUNCTION SETUP REF

other

NUMBERS OFF

WORDS

LOCK SETUPS?

FUNCTION SETUP REF

LOCK UNLOCK

AUTO SETUP = OFF

FUNCTION SETUP REF

other

A closed lock icon indicates setups are locked.

☛

6) Select Auto Setup/Averaging

option. When "AUTO SETUP = OFF" is displayed, pressing [REF] (other) key will causes the averaging menu to display.

- Select average number (1-5). Press the [-] key to decrease number and press the [+] key to increase number. Press the [REF] (exit) key after selection (continued).

7-3

AVERAGING = 1

exit

FUNCTION SETUP REF

CAL

(-)

STORE

(+)

INCREASEDECREASE

( )

CONTINUED

➩

Setting Operation Options . . . continued

6) Continued. After making selection,

press the [FUNCTION] (next) key to save setting and advance to next option.

If any manual entered references exist in the

☛

instrument, a "CLEAR MANUAL REFS" message will display if you attempt to turn on Auto Setup.

AUTO SETUP = ON

FUNCTION SETUP REF

other

7) Select the number of Setups

required (1 - 30). Press the [SETUP] (-) key to decrease and [REF] (+) key to increase setup number.

After making selection, press the

[FUNCTION] (next) key to save

setting and advance to next option.

8) Select the number of Groups

required (1 - 20). Press the [SETUP] (-) key to decrease and [REF] (+) key to increase setup number.

After making selection, press the

[FUNCTION] (next) key to save

setting and advance to next option.

9) Select Wait On Fail options. Press

the [REF] (other) key to alternate between "WAIT ON FAIL=ON" and

"WAIT ON FAIL=OFF."

After making selection, press the

[FUNCTION] (exit) key three times to

save setting and exit.

SETUPS LIMIT= 30

FUNCTION SETUP REF

DECREASE

INCREASE

GROUPS LIMIT= 20

FUNCTION SETUP REF

DECREASE

INCREASE

WAIT ON FAIL = ON

exit

FUNCTION SETUP REF

PRESS THREE TIMES TO EXIT

other

ON OFF

7-4

7.2 Setting I/O Options

The 978 comes equipped with a serial port that allows data to be

transmitted/received to/from an external device. Listed below are available I/O options followed by selection procedure.

Baud Rate - Determines the input/output rate (characters per second) of

the RS-232 port. Available outputs are: "300", "600", "1200", "2400", "4800", and "9600." The factory default setting is 9600 baud.

Line Feed with Carriage Return (LF with CR) - Varies the delimiter

at the end of each line of data. When set to OFF, just a carriage return is sent at the end of a line of data. When set to ON, a carriage return then a line feed are sent at the end of the line of data. The factory default setting is LF with CR.

Handshake - Used for data transmission. Handshake may be set to "Off",

"CTS", "BUSY", or "XON/XOFF Enabled." Handshake should be set to "Off" when not being used. The factory default setting is Off.

To configure I/O options:

The configuration can be exited at any time by pressing [FUNCTION] key and [SETUP] key simultaneously.

1) Press the [FUNCTION] key and

[SETUP] key simultaneously.

2) Press [FUNCTION] (no) three times.

7-5

E .85

a* -.24 b* -.31

FUNCTION SETUP REF

CALIBRATE ?

no yes

FUNCTION SETUP REF

PRESS THREE TIMES

L* +.76

➩

Setting I/O Options . . . continued

3) Press the [REF] (yes) key to enter

I/O Options.

4) Select Baud Rate. Repeatedly

pressing the [REF] (other) key will increment through: "300", "600",

"1200", "2400", "4800", and "9600."

After making selection, press the

[FUNCTION] (next) key to save

setting and advance to next option.

5) Select Line Feed option. Press [REF]

(other) key to alternate between "LF

WITH CR=OFF" and "LF WITH CR=ON."

After making selection, press the

[FUNCTION] (next) key to save

setting and advance to next option.

SET I/O?

no yes

FUNCTION SETUP REF

BAUD RATE = 9600

FUNCTION SETUP REF

other

300, 600 1200, 2400 4800, 9600

LF WITH CR = ON

FUNCTION SETUP REF

other

OFF

6) Select Handshake option.

Repeatedly pressing the [REF] (other) key increments through

"OFF", "CTS", "BUSY", and "XON/XOFF ENABLED."

After making selection, press the

[FUNCTION] (exit) key two times to

save and exit.

7-6

HANDSHAKE = OFF

exit

FUNCTION SETUP REF

PRESS TWO TIMES TO EXIT

other

XON/XOFF ENABLED

OFF CTS

BUSY

7.3 Setting Printout Format Options

Setting the printout options will determine what information will be

transmitted out the RS-232 port after a measurement. Listed below are the available options that can be set followed by selection procedure.

Format - determines if the measurement data is output in "Spectral Data"

(400nm - 700nm in 10nm increments), or "Color Space Data" (L*a*b*, etc.).

Print Header - enables or disables the header (L*a*b*, etc.) from printing

during a data transmit.

Print Reference - enables or disables the reference data from printing (if

any) during a data transmit.

To configure Printout Format options:

The configuration can be exited at any time by pressing [FUNCTION] key and [SETUP] key simultaneously.

1) Press the [FUNCTION] key and

[SETUP] key simultaneously.

2) Press [FUNCTION] (no) four times.

7-7

E .85

a* -.24

FUNCTION SETUP REF

CALIBRATE ?

no yes

FUNCTION SETUP REF

PRESS FOUR TIMES

L* +.76

b* -.31

➩

Setting Printout Format Options . . . continued

3) Press the [REF] (yes) key to enter

I/O Options.

4) Select Print Format option. Press the

[REF] (other) key to increment

through: "OFF", "SPACE", and

"SPECTRAL."

After making selection, press the

[FUNCTION] (next) key to save

setting and advance to next option.

5) Select Header option. Press the

[REF] (other) key to alternate

between "PRINT HEADER=OFF" and

"PRINT HEADER=ON."

After making selection, press the

[FUNCTION] (next) key to save

setting and advance to next option.

SET PRINT FORMAT

no yes

FUNCTION SETUP REF

FORMAT = SPACE

FUNCTION SETUP REF

other

SPACE SPECTRAL

OFF

PRINT HEADER=OFF

FUNCTION SETUP REF

other

OFF ON

6) Select Print Ref option. Press the

[REF] (other) key to alternate

between "PRINT REF=OFF" and

"PRINT REF=ON."

After making selection, press the

[FUNCTION] (exit) key to save setting

and exit.

7-8

PRINT REF = OFF

exit

FUNCTION SETUP REF

PRESS TO EXIT

other

ON OFF

Setting Printout Format Options . . . continued

The following examples illustrate the different data output formats that

can be obtained from the 978 with a serial printer interfaced.

Example 1 - Color Space Format "ON"

Header "ON" Reference "ON"

d(L*C*h) D65_10 13:09:56 05/20/93

REF 01

-.18 C

70.76 C

+.04 h

4.83 h 79.12

.00 E .18

Example 3 - Spectral Format "ON"

Header "ON" Reference "OFF"

SPECTRAL DATA D65_10 13:09:56 05/20/93 WAVELENGTH 400 410 420 430 440 450 460 470 480 490 500 510 520 530 540 550 560 570 580 590 600 610 620 630 640 650 660 670 680 690 700

VALUE

60.81

47.25

38.77

36.51

37.05

37.09

37.39

37.49

37.71

38.28

39.02

40.73

41.26

41.73

42.38

43.02

43.58

43.92

43.81

43.40

42.56

41.84

41.61

42.17

43.87

46.87

51.89

57.57

62.64

67.52

67.89

Example 2 - Color Space Format "ON"

Header "OFF" Reference "OFF"

-.18 C

+.04 h

.00 E .18

7-9

SECTION 8

GENERAL MAINTENANCE

Subjects covered in Section 8 are:

* 8.1 Cleaning the Instrument * 8.2 Cleaning the Optics * 8.3 Replacing the Batteries * 8.4 Replacing the Target Window * 8.5 Reading Lamp Replacement Information * 8.6 Changing the Aperture * 8.7 Troubleshooting Tips

The X-Rite 978 is covered by a one year limited warranty (excluding

ni-cad batteries) and should be referred to the factory or authorized service center for repair within the warranty period. Attempts to make repairs within this time frame may void the warranty.

X-Rite provides a factory repair service to their customers. Because of the

complexity of the circuitry all circuit repairs should be referred to the factory or an authorized service center.

X-Rite will repair any 978 past warranty. Shipping costs to the factory or

to an authorized service center shall be paid by the customer and the instrument shall be submitted in its original carton, as a complete unaltered unit.

8.1 Cleaning the Instrument

The exterior of the instrument may be wiped clean with a cloth

dampened with water or a mild cleaner whenever required.

CAUTION: DO NOT use any ketone solvents to clean the unit. This will cause damage to the cover.

8-1

8.2 Cleaning the Optics

The target window and optics should be cleaned once a week in normal

environments; and more often in dirty or dusty environments.

Target Window

1) Remove dust and lint from target window by wiping it with a clean, lint

free cloth, slightly moistened with water.

Optics

1) Unscrew the two thumb screws [1] and remove the nose piece [2].

Remove dust from aperture with camel hair brush or a camera lens cleaner [3].

[2]

[1]

2. Blow short bursts of air into the optics opening using a camera lens

cleaner (with the brush removed) until all dust is removed. This can be done with the nose piece removed or attached.

WARNING! Do not use an air can that uses freon as a propellant. Doing so could cause damage to

☛

the optics assembly.

[3]

8-2

8.3 Replacing the Batteries

1) Set the 978 on it’s side and lock shoe in place. The shoe must be locked.

2) Slide battery access door [1] toward bottom of unit and remove.

3) Disconnect plug [4] and pull battery pack [2] out of unit.

4) Remove old AA NI-CAD batteries [3], and install six fresh AA NI-CAD

(recognizing proper polarity).

5.) Slide battery pack [2] into unit, and reconnect battery plug [4].

Reinstall battery access door [1].

6) Unlock shoe.

7) Unit should be charged for 24 hours after new battery installation is

performed.

Batteries P/N SE15-19 (6 Required)

[1]

[3]

[4]

[2]

[3]

8-3

8.4 Replacing the Target Window

1) Remove old target window [2] by pushing downward from top of shoe

[1].

2) Place the instrument on end and align the target window so that the word

"front" runs parallel with the top edge of the shoe [1].

3) Insert one edge (top or bottom) of the new target window [2] in the

opening of the shoe [1].

4) Place the other side of the target window [2] in the shoe [1] by snapping

into position.

[1]

[2]

8-4

Front Edge

8.5 Reading Lamp Replacement Information

Due to the circuit complexity, alignment procedures, and test equipment

required - The read lamp should only be replaced by X-Rite or an

authorized X-Rite Service Center.

The lamp is monitored for intensity and failure warnings will be

displayed if a problem occurs.

The lamp should last approximately one million measurements and is

covered by a one year limited warranty. Refer to the Limited Warranty statement on page iii.

8-5

8.6 Changing the Aperture

X-Rite has three different aperture kits available for the 978.

* 8mm/4mm Aperture Kit (P/N 968-100-08) * 8mm UV Excluded Aperture Attachment (P/N 968-61-08)E * 20mm Aperture Kit (P/N 968-100-20)

Each aperture kit includes the aperture, sensor nose, extra target

windows, and a specially designed aperture wrench.

Aperture Installation

1) Unscrew the two thumb screws [1], then remove the nose piece [2].

2) To install the 4mm aperture attachment; screw the 4mm aperture attachment [3] onto the 8mm aperture [4]. The 4mm aperture attachment must be screwed on finger tight; then advance to Step 6

on following page.

To install the 8mm or 20mm aperture; advance to Step 3.

[4]

8-6

[3]

[2]

[1]

➩

Changing the Aperture . . . continued

3) Unscrew the existing aperture [5] with the aperture wrench [6]. Note: The aperture wrench tool has two sides, one side fits the 8mm

aperture and the other fits the 20mm aperture. The aperture wrench has two pins that fit into the holes in the aperture.

Insert pins into the holes in the aperture, then turn counterclockwise to remove.

[6]

[5]

[7]

4) Screw in the new aperture using the aperture wrench. IMPORTANT!

The new aperture must be clean.

5) Attach the new nose piece to the housing with two thumb screws. Note: When you tighten the thumb screws, be sure that the nose piece is

flush against the housing. Gently tighten one screw, then the other. Then finish tightening both screws. IMPORTANT! The new nose piece must be clean.

6) Replace the existing target window [7] with the new target window.

Refer to Section 8.4, Target Window Replacement for this procedure.

Note: If you switch back and forth between the 4mm and 8mm aperture,

it is possible to use the 8mm target window with the 4mm aperture.

7) Refer to next page to change aperture setting.

8-7

Changing the Aperture . . . continued

Aperture Selection

When a different size aperture is installed in the instrument, the setting

must be changed. The instrument must also be recalibrated.

To change aperture setting:

1) Press [FUNCTION] key and [SETUP]

key simultaneously.

2) Press [REF] (yes) key to select

calibration.

The copyright and software version are momentarily displayed.

3) Press [REF] (change) key.

4) Press [FUNCTION] (no) key to enter

Aperture menu.

5) Select Aperture Size.

L*a*b*

L* 94.99

a* -.99 b* +1.10

FUNCTION SETUP REF

CALIBRATE?

FUNCTION SETUP REF

X-Rite

yes

Ver XXXX

READ CAL WHITE

changeexit

FUNCTION SETUP REF

NEW CAL VALUES ?

FUNCTION SETUP REF

yes

* Press [REF] (other) key to page

through "4.0mm", "8.0mm", and

"20mm."

* After aperture selection, press

[FUNCTION] (next) key to go to "READ CAL WHITE" menu. White

cal and zero reflectance must be measured after aperture change (see Sec. 6.2).

8-8

APERTURE =4.0mm

FUNCTION SETUP REF

other

4.0mm

8.0mm 20mm

SEE SEC. 6.2.

8.7 Troubleshooting Tips

A. Incorrect measurement data continually displays.

1. Recalibrate unit.

2. Clean Optics.

3. Contact authorized service center.

B. Unit does not turn on.

1. Check for low batteries.

2. Contact authorized service center.

C. Display not working.

1. Check for low batteries.

2. Contact authorized service center.

D. Reading Drifts.

1. Clean Optics.

2. Recalibrate unit.

3. Contact authorized service center.

E. Unit will not calibrate properly.

1. Dirty reference.

2. Optics dirty.

3. Contact authorized service center.

8-9

SECTION 9

BAR CODE READER (Optional)

Subjects covered in Section 9 are:

* 9.1 Attaching SP78-200 Bar Code Reader to an Instrument * 9.2 Scanning a Bar Code * 9.3 Troubleshooting

The Optional SP78-200 Bar Code Reader is used to scan bar codes. When the BCR is used in conjunction with an X-Rite instrument, a scanned bar code becomes a tag for the measurement(s) taken with the instrument. When the data is uploaded into a software program (e.g., QA-Master®) the bar code tag(s) become sample tag(s).

9.1 ATTACHING THE SP78-200 BCR TO THE INSTRUMENT

Attach the BCR to the instrument’s I/O Port. The instrument must be

operating in the Storage mode before the BCR will operate.

To attach the SP78-200 BCR:

1) Insert the connector on the BCR

into the I/O port of the instrument until it locks, usually indicated by an audible click. The connector inserts in one direction, (tab up) DO NOT FORCE. See Figure 1.

2) Power the instrument up, "BAR

CODE READER DETECTED" will

appear on the instrument display if the BCR is properly attached.

To disconnect the SP78-200 BCR:

1) Depress the tab on the connector and remove the connector from the

instrument.

9-1

Figure 1

9.2 SCANNING A BAR CODE

Follow these guidelines for successful bar code scanning.

1) Turn on the X-Rite

instrument. Be sure the instrument is in the Storage mode.

2) Hold the BCR in your hand

as you would a pencil. The BCR works best when tilted from 10° to 30°, although any angle from 5° to 45° will work. See Figure 2.

3) Place the tip of the BCR on

the white space to the left or right of the bar code. Drag the BCR smoothly and lightly across the bar code. Do not lift the tip of the BCR from the surface of the bar code. See Figure 3.

(5°-45°)

Figure 2

4) The instrument will display

the title of the bar code if the scan was successful. If the display appears blank try scanning the bar code again. If after several scanning attempts the display still appears blank, see Section

9.3, Troubleshooting.

Figure 3

9-2

9.3 TROUBLESHOOTING

The factory default mode can be restored if the SP78-200 BCR is

placed into an unusable or unknown configuration.

To restore the factory default mode:

1) Disconnect the BCR from the instrument.

2) Reconnect the BCR to the instrument.

3) Scan the default configuration bar codes shown in the SP78-200 Bar

Code Reader Instruction Sheet (P/N SP78-510).

Does the SP78-200 BCR have power?

* A red light will be visible at the tip of the BCR if it has power. * Check the connection between the BCR and the instrument. Be

sure the connector is correctly inserted.

* Check the power supply for the instrument. Refer to the instrument

User’s Manual, Troubleshooting section if the instrument does not have power.

Is the SP78-200 BCR configuration correct?

To restore the factory default mode:

1) Disconnect the BCR from the instrument.

2) Reconnect the BCR to the instrument.

3) Scan the default configuration bar codes.

Does the SP78-200 BCR wavelength of light match the bar code?

The BCR will not read bar codes that are designed to be secure (black on black.) The optical signal returning from the bar code is not adequate for measuring the bars and spaces.

Is the SP78-200 BCR being held at the correct angle?

The BCR will operate when held at an angle of 5° to 45°. The optimum operating angle is from 10° to 30°.

9-3

Troubleshooting . . . continued

Was the entire bar code scanned?

* Drag the BCR through the entire bar code at a constant speed.

Increase the scanning speed. Typically the BCR is moved too slowly.

* Be sure the BCR scans the entire bar code. * Be sure the BCR maintained contact with the surface of the bar

code.

* Be sure the bar code is not damaged, dirty or worn. Try to scan an

area without these defects.

Does the SP78-200 BCR tip need replacement?

If the tip becomes damaged or shows signs of excessive wear, it must

be replaced.

To replace the tip:

1) Disconnect the BCR from the instrument.

2) Unscrew the tip from the wand.

3) Replace using part number SE124-01-01.

9-4

APPENDIX A

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

Measuring Function: Absolute Color, Simple Compare, Pass/Fail,

555 Shade Tag, and 555 & Pass/Fail Indication. Based on L*a*b*, L*C*h°, XYZ, Lab (Hunter),

Display: 2 row by 16 character Supertwist dot matrix LCD

Measuring Geometry: 0°/45°, fiber optic pickup, multi-sensor array

Measuring Area: 8.0mm & 4.0mm (20mm optional)

Light Source: Gas filled tungsten lamp, approx. 2856°Κ

Illuminant Types: C, D65, D

Standard Observers: 2° & 10°

Measurement Range: 0 to 200% reflectance

Spectral Range: 400nm - 700nm

Spectral Interval: 20nm (15nm bandwidth)

Resolution: .01%

Inter-Instrument Agreement: 0.20∆E*ab average (Based on average of 12 BCRA tiles)

Short Term Repeatability: 0.05 max ∆E*ab on a white ceramic (20 measurements)

Warm Up Time: None

Measurements Per Charge: Approx. 1000 typical

Measuring Time: Approx. 2 seconds

Data Interface: Patented Bi-directional RS-232, 300 to 9600 baud

Power Supply: Six rechargeable AA NiCad batteries

Charge Time: Approx. 14 hours

AC Adaptor Requirements: 978 90 - 130VAC, 50 - 60Hz, 18W Max.

Operating Temp. Range: 50° - 104°F (10° - 40°C)

Storage Temp. Range: -4° - 122°F (-20° - 50°C)

Weight: 2.3 lbs. (1050 grams)

Dimensions: 3 3/16" H x 3" W x 7 3/4" L

Wht, Yel, and ECMC

(corrected for D65 illuminant)

A, F2 (cool white fluorescent), F7 (broad-band white fluorescent), F11 (TL84), & F12 (Ultralume 3000)

(user selectable), bipolar output

7.2v total rated @ 600mAh (included)

978X 180 - 260VAC, 50 - 60Hz, 20W Max. 12VDC @ 700ma: Positive Tip

(81mm H x 76mm W x 197mm L)

50,

A-1

Technical Specification . . . continued

Safety UL 122 FCC Part 15, Class A, Digital Device Industry Canada ICES-003 Issue 2, Revision 1 International

EMC EN50081-1:1992 Class B

Generic Emission Standard

EN50082-1:1992 Generic Immunity Standard

Safety IEC950/EN60950

Accessories Provided: Calibration Standard

Operation Manual AC Adaptor Carrying Case

X-Rite standards are traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

This product covered by U.S. Patent #4,080,075, #4,591,978, and other patents pending.

Specifications and design subject to change without notice.

A-2

APPENDIX B

DISPLAY MESSAGES

Power-Up Messages

"MEMORY LOST" is displayed when the instrument determines that the data in

the (battery backed up) RAM has been corrupted, if the internal lithium battery on the P.C.B. is bad, or if a new EPROM has been installed.

Operational Messages

"INVALID READING" is displayed when the unit is not held down long

enough during a measurement.

"NEED CALIBRATION" is displayed if the calibration procedure is not

performed for 24 hours, or if there is a 10°C change in temperature since the last calibration.

"READING COMPLETE" measurement has been taken and the instrument

can be released.

"REFERENCE - NOT CHANGED" is displayed after leaving the Reference

Select function, when no change was made.

"REFERENCE UPDATED" is displayed when exiting reference mode.

Calibration Messages

"CALIBRATION - FAILED" is displayed when making a calibration measurement

and something is wrong (invalid reading or data is out of range).

"CALIBRATION - NOT CHANGED" is displayed when the user decides to

terminate the calibration procedure by pressing

"CALIBRATION - UPDATED" is displayed after the calibration procedure has

been successfully completed.

"CAL ERROR ### - MOTION DETECTED" calibration requires that the

instrument remain motionless during the five measurements of the white spot. If the error persists and is not due to movement, the number that is displayed should be reported to X-Rite or an authorized service center.

"CAL ERROR ### - CELL CHANGE" make sure that calibration plaque is

clean and instrument is positioned exactly on the white spot. If the error persists, the number that is displayed should be reported to X-Rite or an authorized service center.

B-1

[REF]

key.

Display Messages . . . continued

"INVALID ENTRY" is displayed when the numbers entered for the white

values are inappropriate.

Miscellaneous Messages

"BARCODE IN STORE MODE ONLY" indicates that a bar code was scanned

when the instrument was not in storage mode.

"BATTERIES LOW" indicates that the batteries are getting low and will soon

need to be charged. It will only be displayed while the measurement is in progress. Once displayed you will have approximately 100-200 measurements remaining before charging is mandatory.

"BATTERIES MUST - BE CHARGED" indicates that the batteries are too low

to operate the unit. It will be displayed until you begin the recharge cycle, thereafter, the unit will be functional and all previous data will be accessible.

"LAMP FAILURE" measurement lamp is bad. The lamp should be replaced

by X-Rite or an authorized X-Rite service center. When this message occurs, you can get out of this condition by pressing

[SETUP]

then

"READING ERROR ##" reading error due to hardware problem. If this

; or waiting until the unit powers down.

[SETUP]

message persists the number that is displayed should be reported to X-Rite or an authorized service center.

"REFL. EXCEEDED" calculation of reflectance for at least one of the filters

was more than 200%. This is usually caused by a bad calibration procedure. Recalibrate unit.

"THANKS! - I NEEDED THAT!" indicates that the charger has been plugged

in and the batteries are being charged. This is in response to the message "BATTERIES MUST BE CHARGED".

then

[REF]

"WEAK LAMP - REPLACE SOON" indicates that the lamp is getting weak

and should be replaced in the near future. When this message occurs, you can get out of this condition by pressing

[SETUP]

then

; or waiting until unit powers down.

[SETUP]

then

[REF]

calibration. #### represents the datecode of the software.

B-2

APPENDIX C

OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES

Part Number

• QA-Master® Software Package....................................................1255-10

• Security Cable..............................................................................418-75

• 4/8mm Aperture Kit.....................................................................968-100-08

• 20mm Aperture Kit......................................................................968-100-20

• 8mm Aperture Attachment (UV excluding) ................................968-61-08E

• Zero Reflectance Black Trap .......................................................SP68-105

• Portable Thermal Printer (115VAC)............................................418-113

• Portable Thermal Printer (230VAC)............................................418X-113

• Interconnect cable for Macintosh® computers

with 8 pin mini-DIN connector....................................................418-79

• Modular Interconnect Cable (requires adaptor below).....................SE108-69

• DB25P DCE (Null Modem) Interface Adaptor ...........................418-70

• DB25S DCE (Null Modem) Interface Adaptor ..........................418-71

• DB25P DTE (Normal) Interface Adaptor ...................................418-80

• DB25S DTE (Normal) Interface Adaptor ...................................418-81

• DB9P Interface Adaptor .............................................................418-90

• DB9S Interface Adaptor ..............................................................418-91

• 4mm Target Window ..................................................................968-121-04

• 8mm Target Window...................................................................968-121-08

• 20mm Target Window.................................................................968-121-20

• 948/968 Spectrophotometer Stand (see below)............................968-80

X-Rite Mounting Fixture

The fixture can hold items that are a maximum of four inches wide, or two inches to the center of the object.

The unit quickly attaches to the fixture with thumb screw adjustments

Hold unit closed

C-1

Item to be measured

Spring loaded holding clamp

APPENDIX D

COLOR CHECK

The color check procedure will help you track instrument color performance to assure measurement accuracy. Initially, the three patches on the standard should be measured once a day for a period of 10 days to determine the reference values. Thereafter, a periodic check (once a week depending on usage) is all that is required.

Located on the back of the reference standard envelope is a color check label. The reference data should be recorded there for quick reference.

Reference Data Procedure

To obtain reference values:

1) Clean instrument optics and reference standard if necessary.

2) Calibrate instrument according to procedure in operation manual. Note:

The reference standard is dramatically affected by smudge marks and dust; and must be kept clean.

3) Select L*a*b* absolute function and desired illuminant/observer. Note:

The selected illum/obs must be the same whenever the color check is performed.

4) Measure the White (1), Blue (2), and Brown (3) patches on the reference standard.

White Blue

5) Record the L*a*b* values for each color on a piece of paper.

6) Repeat steps 1-5 for 10 days.

D-1

Brown

➩

Color Check . . . continued

7) After 10 days average the white, blue, and brown values and enter data in the designated place on the color check label.

8) Enter date, illuminant, observer, aperture size, temperature, instrument model, and serial number on color check label. Note: Temperature of the reference standard should be maintained (±2°C) throughout color check sequence.

Periodic Color Check Procedure

1) Copy reference data located on the color check label to the shaded areas on the color check record located on the next page.

2) Perform steps 1-4 in reference data procedure.

3) Record the measured white, blue, and brown values and date on the color check record on the next page. Note: You may want to make several copies of the color check record before entering any data. This will allow you to have additional pages available when they are needed.

4) Compare measured values to the reference values.

* If values are off, clean optics and reference standard and

remeasure.

* Consistent L*, a*, or b* differences exceeding .30 (or obvious

trends away from the reference data) may require the unit to be serviced. Contact X-Rite or authorized service center if this is the case.

* Always verify color performance with the same aperture size,

illum/obs, and temperature.

D-2

COLOR CHECK RECORD

Date: Illuminant: Observer: Temperature: Aperture Size: Model-S/N:

Reference White Blue Brown

Values L* a* b* L* a* b* L* a* b*

Date

D-3

X-Rite, Incorporated - World Headquarters

3100 44th Street S.W. • Grandville, Michigan 49418 • USA World Wide Web: http://www.x-rite.com Toll-Free U.S. Numbers Tel: 1-888-826-3042 • Fax: 1-888-826-3043 Toll-Free International Numbers Tel: 1-888-826-3039 • Fax: 1-888-826-3041

X-Rite GmbH

Stollwerckstraße 32 • 51149 Köln • Germany Tel: (49) 2203-91450 • Fax: (49) 2203-914519

X-Rite GmbH

Sochorova 705 • CZ-682 • 11 Vyskov • Czech Republic Tel: (42) 0507-328197 • Fax: (42) 0507-328138

X-Rite Asia Pacific Ltd.

Room 808-10 • Kornhill Metro Tower • 1 Kornhill Road • Quarry Bay Hong Kong • Tel: (852) 2-568-6283 • Fax: (852) 2-885-8610

X-Rite Ltd.

Lower Washford Mill • Mill Street • Buglawton Congleton, Cheshire CW12 2AD • U.K. Tel: (44) 1260-279988 • Fax: (44) 1260-270696

X-Rite Méditerranée

Parc du moulin de Massy • 35, rue du Saule Trapu • 91300 Massy • France Tel: 33-1-69.53.66.20 • FAX 33-1-69.53.00.52

P/N 978-500

Rev. I-8/11/98

X-Rite 978 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual