Elcometer 406L User manual

English
Elcometer 406L
Statistical Glossmeter
Operating Instructions

English
R
The Elcometer 406L Statistical Glossmeter has been tested in accordance with EU regulations
governing Electro-magnetic compliance and it meets the required directives.
Note: Readings may be affected if the unit is operated within a radio frequency electromagnetic strength of
greater than 3 V/m.
is a registered trademark of Elcometer Limited.
Novo-Soft is a trademark of Rhopoint Instruments Ltd.
All other trademarks acknowledged.
© Copyright Elcometer Limited. 2009.
All rights reserved. Nopart of this Document may be reproduced,transmitted,transcribed, stored(in a retrieval
system or otherwise) or translated into any language, in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical,
magnetic, optical, manual or otherwise) without the prior written permission of Elcometer Limited.
A copy of this Instruction Manual is available for download on our Website via www.elcometer.com/
downloads. Doc.No. TMA-0412 Issue 03
Text with Cover No: 20120

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CONTENTS
Section Page
1 About your gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
2 Getting started. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
3 Taking a reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
4 Deleting data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5 Viewing measurement statistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
6 Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
7 System Set-up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
8 Novo-Soft™ software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
9 Storage and transit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
10 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
11 Statistics terminology. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
12 Technical specification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
13 Spare parts and accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
14 Related equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

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Thank you for your purchase of this Elcometer 406L Statistical Glossmeter. Welcome to Elcometer.
Elcometer are world leaders in the design, manufacture and supply of inspection equipment for coatings
and concrete. Our products cover all aspects of coating inspection, from development through application
to post application inspection.
Your Elcometer 406L Statistical Glossmeter is a world beating product. With the purchase of this product
you now have access to the worldwide service and support network of Elcometer. For more information visit
our website at www.elcometer.com
1 ABOUT YOUR GAUGE
The Elcometer 406L Statistical Glossmeter is a handheld gauge for measuring the gloss on flat surfaces
from matt to mirror finishes. The gauge is available in two versions; single angle measurement (60°) or dual
angle measurement (20°/60°).
The gauge can perform statistical analysis of gloss readings stored in internal memory.
The Elcometer 406L contains an LED light source, a light detector and a system of lenses. A parallel beam
of light illuminates the specimen at a set angle of incidence. The light detector is set at the opposite angle
and measures the light reflected from the specimen. Gloss is computed and displayed in Gloss Units (GU).
The gauge is calibrated using a certified calibration tile.
The Elcometer 406L is supported by Novo-Soft™ software - a data cable connects the gauge to a PC via
an USB connection.
The gauge is powered by internal dry cell batteries.

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1.1 GAUGE FEATURES
• Measures at 20°and 60°angles (dual angle
models only)
• Simultaneous reading of both angles (dual angle models
only)
• Simultaneous calibration of both angles (dual angle models
only)
• Auto-ranging - measures matt to mirror finish.
• Move-and-read feature for checking large surfaces quickly
• Statistical analysis gives an instant indication of batch
quality
• RS232 output to PC
• Download, analyse and store readings in Novo-Soft
• Calibrate to any gloss standard
• Extended-life light source; over 10 years under normal
operating conditions
• Accurate and reliable
1.2 STANDARDS
Your Elcometer 406L Statistical Glossmeter can be used in accordance with the following National and
International Standards, AS/NZS 1580.602.2, ASTM C 584, ASTM D 523, ASTM D 1455, ASTM D 2457,
EN 12373-11, EN 13523-2 supersedes ECCA T2, ISO 2813, ISO 7668, JIS Z 8741, TAPPI T 653.

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1.3 WHAT THE BOX CONTAINS
• Elcometer 406L Statistical Glossmeter (single angle model or dual angle model)
• Certified calibration tile in case
• Tile cleaning cloth
• Calibration certificate for tile
• CD-ROM containing Novo-Soft™ software package
• USB cable
• 5 x LR03 (AAA) alkaline batteries
• Posi-Drive screwdriver
• Carrying case
• Operating instructions
The gauge is packed in a cardboard and foam package. Please ensure that this packaging is disposed of
in an environmentally sensitive manner. Consult your local Environmental Authority for further guidance.
The display is covered with a protective film on dispatch from the factory. This film may be removed and
discarded before first use.
To maximise the benefits of your new Elcometer 406L please take some time to read these
Operating Instructions. Do not hesitate to contact Elcometer or your Elcometer supplier if you have
any questions.

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2 GETTING STARTED
2.1 FITTING BATTERIES
The Elcometer 406L uses dry cell batteries only. Sealed alkaline batteries are recommended.
5 x LR03 (AAA) alkaline batteries are supplied in the kit.
To fit or replace the batteries:
1. Locate the two screws which retain the battery compartment cover at the rear
of the gauge.
2. Use the screwdriver supplied to remove the screws and then lift off the battery
compartment cover.
3. Place the batteries in the battery holders ensuring correct polarity.
4. Replace the battery compartment cover and tighten the retaining screws.
Note: Remove the batteries from the gauge if it is to remain unused for a long period
of time. This will prevent damage to the gauge in the event of malfunction of the
batteries.
Note: Alkaline batteries must be disposed of carefully to avoid environmental
contamination. Please consult your local Environmental Authority for information on
disposal in your region.
Do not dispose of any batteries in fire.

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2.2 SWITCHING ON/OFF
To switch on, press . The display will show:
It is not possible to switch off the Elcometer 406L manually. The unit will
automatically switch off XX seconds after the last key press, where XX is user-defined between 30 and 120
seconds (see “Changing settings using Novo-Soft™” on page 21).
2.3 CHANGING DISPLAY LANGUAGE
The Elcometer 406L can display menus in the following languages; English, French, Spanish, German,
Italian and Dutch.
To select language using the keypad, see “Language - Selecting” on page 19.
Display language can also be changed by the Novo-Soft™ package included with your gauge.
1. Install and run Novo-Soft™ package. See “Novo-Soft™ software” on page 19.
2. Connect Elcometer 406L to PC and switch gauge on. See “Interfacing to your PC” on page 20.
3. Select required display language. See “Changing settings using Novo-Soft™” on page 21.
Last Certified:
24/10/2006

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2.4 THE CONTROLS
The Elcometer 406L is a menu-operated gauge and it has three control keys:
READ/SELECT
This key has three functions:
Power: This key is used to switch the gauge on.
Read: In the measurement mode, press and release to take a single measurement or press and
hold for continuous measurement.
Select: When navigating the set-up menus this key selects an item or confirms a previous
selection.
SCROLL UP/DOWN
This key has four functions:
View statistics: In single angle measurement mode, press the UP key to view the statistics for
the selected angle.
Delete: In single angle measurement mode press the DOWN key to enter the delete mode.
Scroll Up/Down: In the set up menu use the UP/DOWN key to scroll through the available
options.
Set Calibration value: In Set Calibration Mode press the UP/DOWN key to adjust the
calibration value.

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CHANGE ANGLE/CALIBRATE/CANCEL
This key has two (single angle models) or three (dual angle models) functions;
Change Angle (dual angle models only): In measurement mode press the C key to toggle
between the measurement angles 20°> 60°> 20°/60°.
Calibrate: In measurement mode press the C key for 2 seconds to initiate the calibration
process.
Cancel: During calibration press the C key to cancel the process and revert to previously stored
calibration constants.
2.5 WHICH ANGLE SHOULD I USE? (DUAL ANGLE MODELS ONLY)
Each angle is suitable for different situations:
Angle Used for measurement of Suggested range
20° High gloss surfaces Surfaces that measure more th an 70GU when measured at 60°
such as automotive paint finish, polished metals and plastics
60° All gloss levels Initial investigation of any sur face

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3 TAKING A READING
Before you start taking readings, always check the calibration of the gauge:
3.1 CHECK THE CALIBRATION VALUE
1. Place the gauge onto the gloss calibration tile ensuring that the body of the gauge fits within the recess
in the foam.
2. Dual angle models only: In measurement mode, select the required angle, pressing the C key to cycle
through the angles 20 > 60 > 20/60.

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3. Take a reading by pressing the READ/SELECT key.
4. Compare the reading for the angle chosen with the gloss
value of the tile at that angle - look for the sticker inside the
calibration tile case.
If the reading taken by the gauge matches the gloss value
of the tile, the gauge is within calibration limits and is ready
for use.
If the reading taken by the gauge does not match the gloss
value of the tile, calibrate the gauge - see “Calibration” on
page 14.
3.2 TO TAKE A MEASUREMENT AT A SINGLE POSITION
1. Position the gauge using the arrows on the front and side to line up with the area to be measured.
2. Dual angle models only: In measurement mode, select the required angle, pressing the C key to cycle
through the angles 20 > 60 > 20/60.
3. Press and release the READ/SELECT key. The gauge will now start to take a reading and >> will be
shown on the display.

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4. The angle, gloss value and reading number
a
are shown on the display and stored in memory.
Each press and release of the READ/SELECT key takes a further measurement. Each time a measurement
is taken the number of readings stored increases by one. If an erroneous reading is taken it can be deleted
- see “Deleting data” on page 12.
a. Reading number is not displayed or stored in memory if Stats Mode is switched off - see “Statistics - Switching on/off”
on page 18

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3.3 TO MEASURE A LARGE SURFACE
The Elcometer 406L has a special feature which allows large surfaces to be checked quickly - ‘Move-and-
Read’.
1. While taking measurements, press and hold the READ/SELECT key.
The gauge will start to take a measurement.
2. Continue to hold the READ/SELECT key and slide the gauge carefully to the next area to be
measured.
The display updates in real time to show the measurement value under the aperture.
3. When the READ/SELECT key is released the last reading will be displayed. This will be the value
stored in the memory.
Note: Sliding the gauge across a product may cause damage to the surface unless care is taken.
Note: A 30 second ‘Move-and-read’ mode can be selected using the Novo-Soft software included with your
gauge - see “Changing settings using Novo-Soft™” on page 21.
4 DELETING DATA
1. While the gauge is in measurement mode, press the SCROLL
DOWN key. The following message is displayed:
2. Press the READ/SELECT key.
The display will show:
Delete Sample
60° 97.6 32
ARE OU SURE ?
Press Read Key

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3. Press the READ/SELECT key to confirm. The LAST reading will be deleted and the gauge will prompt
for further deletions. If necessary, continue to delete further readings by pressing the READ/SELECT
key.
4. To delete all ALL readings for the displayed angle, press and hold READ/SELECT key
b
.
5. When you have finished deleting, press the C key to return to the measurement screen.
5 VIEWING MEASUREMENT STATISTICS
Your gauge calculates a statistical
c
analysis of readings as they are taken.
To view the statistics:
1. While the gauge is in measurement mode, press the SCROLL UP
key to display the angle, minimum (MIN) and maximum (MAX)
values for the stored data.
2. Press the READ/SELECT key to display the other statistical values
for the data; the mean (MEAN), the Coefficient of Variation (CV) and
the Standard Deviation (SD).
3. To return to measurement mode after viewing statistics, press the
SCROLL DOWN key once.
b. Stored data can also be cleared from the gauge using the Delete Data function in Novo-Soft
TM
when the gauge is
connected to the PC. See see “Novo-Soft™ software” on page 19.
c. An explanation of the statistical analysis is given in “Statistics terminology” on page 23.
STATS MIN MAX
60° 88.1 88.2
MEAN CV SD
88.1 0.12 0.87

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6 CALIBRATION
Calibrate your Elcometer 406L using the certified calibration tile supplied with your gauge.
In stable temperature and humidity conditions the instrument will only need occasional calibration. Measure
the calibration tile every 6 to 8 hours to verify this for your conditions.
6.1 CERTIFIED CALIBRATION TILE
The calibration tile is mounted in a plastic hinged case. The black foam in the lid of the case can be used
to provide a zero gloss value.
The calibration tile is supplied certified in a clean and defect-free condition. A visual inspection for smears
or damage is recommended before each calibration as dirty or defective tiles may lead to inaccurate
measurements.
The tile is certified with traceability to the BAM standards.
The instrument checks the tile for dirt and damage during calibration. If an error message is displayed, clean
the tile with the cleaning cloth and repeat the calibration.
Further information on the calibration tile is given in “Maintaining your calibration tile” on page 22.
6.2 TO CALIBRATE YOUR GAUGE
1. Visually inspect the surface of the calibration tile for smears or defects - if necessary, clean the tile
using warm soapy water and dry with a soft lint-free cloth.
2. Place the gauge onto the gloss calibration tile ensuring that the body of the gauge fits within the recess
in the foam.

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3. Dual angle models only: In measurement mode, select the required angle, pressing the C key to cycle
through the angles 20 > 60 > 20/60. To calibrate two angles simultaneously, select the two angle
measurement mode ‘20/60’.
4. Press and hold the C key to begin the calibration procedure. The
display will show:
5. Press the READ/SELECT key. After a short delay during which a
‘Please Wait’ message appears, the display will show:
6. Press
d
the READ/SELECT key. After a short delay during which a
‘Please Wait’ message appears, the display will show:
The gauge will then return to the measurement mode and is ready for use.
Note: The Elcometer 406L has an automatic calibration tile check routine. If the calibration tile is dirty or
damaged and the value does not conform to that stored in the memory the display will show the following
warning messages:
d. If the READ/SELECT key is not pressed at this stage the calibration will be cancelled.
CALIBRATE ANGLE 60°.
Press Read Key
CALIBRATE
Sample High Ref
60° Angle
Completed
Poss. Cal. Error
Check Calib Tile
Accept new
Calibration?

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The tile should be cleaned and the measurement of the calibration tile
repeated.
If scratches or permanent marks are seen, press the C key. The
calibration value will not be stored. A new calibration tile will be required if permanent marks are present.
7 SYSTEM SET-UP
Use system set-up to configure your gauge to suit the way you work.
To enter system set-up:
Press and hold the DOWN button. While continuing to press the DOWN
button, press and hold the C button until the display shows:
Now use the SCROLL UP/DOWN key to scroll through the set-up options
- see paragraphs 7.1 to 7.5.
7.1 CALIBRATION VALUE - CHANGING
The gloss value(s) of the calibration tile supplied with your gauge are stored within the gauge at the time of
manufacture. To see these value(s), look for the sticker inside the calibration tile case.
Normally these value(s) do not need to be changed, however if it becomes necessary to modify the stored
value(s), for example if the calibration tile is re-calibrated, or a different calibration tile is used, use the
following procedure:
ARE OU SURE?
Press Read Key
System Set-up

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1. Enter system set-up and then press the SCROLL UP/DOWN key
until the display shows:
2. Press the READ/SELECT key to enter this menu option. The display
will show:
3. Use the SCROLL UP/DOWN key to adjust the value until it matches
the value shown on the calibration tile in use.
4. When the displayed value matches that shown on the calibration tile,
press the READ/SELECT key to store the value. The gauge will
confirm this with the following message:
5. The gauge will then return to the measurement mode and the gauge
must be re-calibrated before it is used for gloss measurements - see “Calibration” on page 14.
7.2 ZERO CALIBRATION - SWITCHING ON/OFF
Calibration between two points (high gloss and zero gloss) can be selected as an option.
To switch zero calibration on or off use the following procedure:
1. Enter system set-up and then press the SCROLL UP/DOWN key
until the display shows:
2. Press the READ/SELECT key to toggle zero calibration on/off.
3. Press the C key to exit set-up mode.
SET STD CAL VAL.
60° 88.1
SET STD CAL VAL.
CAL Mode Active
SET CAL UP
60° 88.2
CAL DATA SAVED
Completed
Zero Calib. Off
Press Read Key
Zero Calib. On
Press Read Key

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Note: To calibrate your gauge with zero calibration switched on, follow the calibration procedure given in
6.2 on page 14, however when the gauge prompts ‘Sample Zero Ref’, place the gauge onto the black foam
in the lid of the calibration tile case and then press READ/SELECT. The gauge will calibrate to zero and
then continue with the standard calibration procedure.
7.3 STATISTICS - SWITCHING ON/OFF
For simplified operation, statistical analysis of the readings can be switched off. When statistics are
switched off, measurements are not stored in gauge memory and all functions except read and calibrate are
disabled. To switch statistics on or off use the following procedure:
1. Enter system set-up and then press the SCROLL UP/DOWN key
until the display shows:
2. Press the READ/SELECT key to toggle statistics on/off.
3. Press the C key to exit set-up mode.
7.4 BACKLIGHT - SWITCHING ON/OFF
To extend the life of the batteries it is possible to switch the backlight off. The backlight can be switched on
and off using the following procedure:
1. Enter system set-up and then press the UP/DOWN key until the
display shows:
2. Press the READ/SELECT key to toggle the backlight on/off.
3. Press the C key to exit set-up mode.
Stats. Mode
Press Read Key
Non Stats. Mode
Press Read Key
Back Light Ops
Press Read Key