HunterLab ColorFlex EZ Owner's manual

ColorFlex®EZ
Supplemental Manual for EasyMatch®QC
Hunter Associates Laboratory
11491 Sunset Hills Road
Reston, Virginia 20190 USA
www.hunterlab.com
A60-1017-662
Manual Version 1.0

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Copyrights and Trademarks
This documentation contains proprietary information of Hunter Associates Laboratory, Inc. Its
reproduction, in whole or in part, without express written consent of Hunter Associates Laboratory,
Inc. is prohibited.
EasyMatch QC and ColorFlex are registered trademarks for Hunter Associates Laboratory, Inc.
Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries.
Duraflect, Spectraflect, and Spectralon are trademarks of Labsphere, Inc.
Teflon is a registered trademark of Dupont.
Caution: If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the HunterLab, the overall safety may
be impaired. - The instrument is for indoor use only and not suitable for a wet location.
Caution: There is a potential of a UV Light hazard in using this instrument. Please avoid looking
directly at the light.

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Contents
COLORFLEXEZ FEATURES........................................................................................... 5
ColorFlex EZ Accessories ................................................................................................................6
ColorFlex Options and Sample Devices ...........................................................................................6
COLORFLEX EZ INSTALLATION...................................................................................... 7
Install EasyMatch® QC Software .......................................................................................................7
Activate the SoftKey License ...........................................................................................................8
Add the Sensor ............................................................................................................................10
COLORFLEX EZ STANDARDIZATION .............................................................................13
COLORFLEX EZ MAINTENANCE AND TESTING..............................................................15
Cleaning the ColorFlex EZ .............................................................................................................15
Diagnostic Test #1: Running Short Term Repeatability .................................................................15
Diagnostic Test #2: Running Long Term Repeatability ..................................................................15
Replacing the Lamp......................................................................................................................15
COLORFLEX EZ SPECIFICATIONS ..................................................................................17
Operating Conditions ...................................................................................................................17
Physical Characteristics ................................................................................................................17
Conditions of Illumination and Viewing........................................................................................17
Instrument Performance..............................................................................................................18
INSTRUMENT REPLACEMENT, REPAIR, PROBLEMS, AND QUESTIONS .........................18
Warranty .....................................................................................................................................21
Shipping Claims............................................................................................................................21
Breakage or Damage .......................................................................................................................... 21
Shortage ............................................................................................................................................. 22
Incorrect Shipment............................................................................................................................. 22
Returns........................................................................................................................................23
Packing and Shipping Instruments for Repair.................................................................................... 23
When You Need Assistance..........................................................................................................24
Regulatory Notice ........................................................................................................................18
INDEX .........................................................................................................................26

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ColorFlex EZ Features
The ColorFlex EZ spectrophotometer is a versatile color measurement instrument that can be used for
reflectance measurement of products in industries such as paint and textiles. Although the instrument
is AC-powered, the small footprint of the ColorFlex EZ allows for portable operation.
Figure 1. ColorFlex EZ
The instrument uses a xenon flash lamp to illuminate the sample. The light reflected from the sample
is then separated into its component wavelengths through a dispersion grating. The relative intensities
of the light at different wavelengths along the visible spectrum (400-700 nm) are then analyzed to
produce numeric results. This is an objective means of quantifying a sample’s color.
ColorFlex EZ is available in one geometry –45° illumination/0° viewing. The label on the back of the
instrument provides information on the serial number.
The ColorFlex EZ may be operated using the keypad and display on the instrument, or operated while
connected to a computer running HunterLab EasyMatch QC software. Having purchased both a
ColorFlex EZ and EasyMatch QC software, you have two sources of information on the instrument in
addition to this User’s Manual: the ColorFlex EZ User’s Manual which describes stand-alone operation,
and the EasyMatch QC help file, which describes operation of the ColorFlex EZ using the software.
Refer to those information sources as required.

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ColorFlex EZ Accessories
The following accessories are included with the ColorFlex EZ system and can be found in the provided
carrying case:
•Black glass - placed at the sample port during standardization of 45°/0° instruments.
•White calibrated tile - placed at the sample port during standardization.
•Diagnostic Green tile - used to check instrument performance.
•Standards care card - gives instructions on how to clean the standards.
•Lens wipes.
•Certificate of traceability for the calibrated white tile.
•USB computer interface cable.
•AC adapter, 2 A/9V.
•ColorFlex EZ User’s Manual
•USB Flash disk for Datalog Export
ColorFlex Options and Sample Devices
There are many options and devices available for positioning samples at the measurement ports of the
ColorFlex and for making the instrument easier to use. For the latest information, please refer to
https://support.hunterlab.com/hc/en-us/articles/218375923-Accessories-for-HunterLab-
Instruments.

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ColorFlex EZ Installation
The ColorFlex EZ is simple to set up and attach to your computer. Before operating the ColorFlex EZ
with EasyMatch QC, you need to install the batteries and connect the instrument to your computer.
These steps are outlined below.
1. Unpack the carrying case and remove wrappings and cable ties. Inspect for damage and
notify the carrier and HunterLab immediately if any is discovered. Save the packing
materials in case it becomes necessary to return the instrument to the factory.
2. Plug the USB cable into the USB port on back left of the ColorFlex EZ.
3. Plug the flat end of the USB cable into the appropriate USB port on the computer.
Install EasyMatch QC Software
Complete the following steps:
1. Log into the system using an account that has ‘Administrator’ privileges for the PC —
network or local.
2. Insert the installation CD into the CD-ROM drive. If the system is setup to automatically
run CD programs, the menu will appear and you may skip to Step 5. Otherwise, continue
with Step 3.
3. Select the Easy Match QC Icon or from Windows, go to Start > Run >EZMQC_Menu and
Open. The following screen will be shown.
Figure 2. EasyMatch QC Installation
4. Select Install EasyMatch QC Software and follow the screen prompts.
5. Select SoftKey License as the type of key to use with the software.

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Figure 3. Software Key License
6. When the EasyMatch QC installation is finished, select the Option Button next to ‘Yes, I
want to restart my computer now’and then Finish to restart the computer and log back in.
Figure 4. Completed Install
7. The CD can now be removed.
Activate the SoftKey License
1. From the Desktop, select the EasyMatch QC Icon or from the Windows Start menu,
choose the following to open the software:
Start > Programs > HunterLab > EasyMatch QC
2. A warning message to activate the license will be displayed as shown below.
Note: EasyMatch QC functions are unavailable before key activation.

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Figure 5. No License Warning
3. The SoftKey License is uniquely associated with the sensor serial number and is provided
on a thumb drive supplied with EasyMatch QC or via email from HunterLab.
4. Go to Help > License Registration > Activation.
5. Select Activate License.
Figure 6. Activate License
i. Option #1: Key ID.
This method is for copying the ID from an email or writing down the 32-digit code.
This requires an internet connection.
a. From the Choose an Option page (Figure 5), select Key ID.
b. Paste-in or type-in the License Key ID and click Activate.
c. An acknowledgement will be displayed showing the activation status.
ii. Option #2: Key File (.skl)
This method is for using the SoftKey License (.skl file) on the thumb drive.
a. Place the thumb drive with the SoftKey License in the USB port.
b. From the Choose an Option page (Figure 6), select Key File (.skl).
c. Browse the USB to find the SoftKey License (.skl file), then click Activate.
d. An acknowledgement will be displayed showing the activation status.

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iii. Option #3: Sentinel Key
a. If the user has a HunterLab USB hardware key, then it can be used with a new
sensor on the same computer. Return to Install, Step 5 (Figure 3) and select the
Sentinel Key to continue.
iv. Option #4: 30-day trial
a. Fill out the registration form provided for the 30-day trial. Connect to the
internet. HunterLab will approve the trial and email the SoftKey license back.
Follow the directions for Option #1 or #2 to complete.
Figure 7. Request 30-day Trial
Add the Sensor
1. Upon initial startup, the following message will be displayed: ‘Sensor not yet installed.
Please install a sensor to take measurements’. This message will remain until you
proceed to the Sensor Menu > Install > Configure command and install a new sensor.
2. The Sensor Manager appears first:
Figure 8. Sensor Manager
3. Select Add Sensor to install a new sensor. The Setup Sensor screen allows selection of
the instrument model and the communications port. Select Next when ready.

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Figure 9. Setup Sensor
4. Connect the instrument using the USB communications port on the instrument to the
computer with EasyMatch QC.
5. Remove the tape covering the reflectance port.
6. Place the desired port plate at the reflectance port and snap it into place.
7. Turn on the ColorFlex EZ by pressing and holding the Read Button. Allow the instrument
to warm up for two hours prior to standardizing and making measurements.

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ColorFlex EZ Standardization
The ColorFlex EZ must be standardized on a regular basis to keep it operating properly.
Standardization on a ColorFlex EZ model with 45°/0° geometry requires reading of the black glass and
the calibrated white tile that are contained in the standards box. Standardization can be done through
EasyMatch QC (by selecting Sensor Menu > Standardize or by clicking the Standardize button on the
default toolbar) or directly through the ColorFlex EZ firmware.
It is recommended that the instrument be standardized at least once every four hours (Sensor > Set
Interval). Then proceed with sample measurement.

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ColorFlex EZ Maintenance and Testing
The ColorFlex EZ requires minimal maintenance. This chapter describes cleaning of the instrument and
tiles and running diagnostic tests as part of normal instrument maintenance.
Cleaning of the ColorFlex EZ
Clean the outside surfaces of the ColorFlex EZ using a soft cloth. Do not spray liquids directly on the
instrument.
Diagnostic Test #1: Running Short Term Repeatability
Short Term Repeatability of your instrument may be tested using the calibrated white tile as follows:
1. Turn the ColorFlex EZ on and allow it to warm up for 2 hours. Meanwhile, clean the
calibrated white tile as described and allow the tile to return to room temperature.
2. Follow the instructions given in the Sensor Menu > Diagnostics section to run the short
repeatability test that is built into EasyMatch QC.
Diagnostic Test #2: Running Long Term Repeatability
Long Term Repeatability is measured using the Green Tile as follows:
1. If needed, clean the diagnostic green tile and allow the tile to return to room temperature.
2. Follow the instructions given in the Sensor Menu > Diagnostics section to run the long-term
repeatability test that is built into EasyMatch QC.
Replacing the Lamp
Lamp replacement requires a trained technician. Contact HunterLab Technical Support to arrange for
lamp replacement. Please read “When You Need Assistance” prior to contacting HunterLab.

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ColorFlex EZ Specifications
The specifications and characteristics of your instrument are given in this section. For best
performance, your instrument should be placed where there is ample work space with medium or
subdued illumination and no drafts. The operating conditions (temperature and humidity ranges) are
given in the Operating Conditions section below.
Operating Conditions
ColorFlex EZ can be stored in an area with a temperature range of -20°C to 65°C (-5°F to 150°F) for up
to 3 weeks and can be operated under temperature conditions of 10°C to 40°C (50°F to 104°F). For
specification-level performance, the recommended temperature range is 21-28°C (70-82°F). It may be
operated under relative noncondensing humidity conditions of 10% to 90%. Do not leave ColorFlex EZ
in an area where temperature or humidity extremes are possible.
Physical Characteristics
Weight
4.5 kg (9.9 lb.)
Dimensions
Height: 16 cm (6.3 in)
Width: 13 cm (5.1 in)
Depth: 36 cm (14.2 in)
Communications Interface
3 USB 2.0 ports
RFI Compliance
FCC Class A (Commercial), IEC, or equivalent
Safety Compliance
UL, CSA, IEC, or equivalent
System Power
100 to 240 VAC, 47 to 63 Hz
Conditions of Illumination and Viewing
Light Source
Pulsed xenon
Source UV content
Match to D65 with CIE rating of CC or better
Lamp Life
>1 million flashes
Geometry
Directional annular
45° Illumination/0° Viewing
Detector
Sealed optics; 256-element scanned array & high-
resolution concave holographic grating
Port Diameters/Sample View
Diameters
31.8 mm (1.25 in)/25 mm (1.0 in)

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Instrument Performance
Spectral Data
Range: 400-700 nm
Reporting Interval: 10 nm
Bandwidth at Half-height
10 nm
Photometric Range
0-150% reflectance
Measurement Speed (at 23°C)
≤1.5 seconds
Measurement Storage Capacity
2000 spectral readings as sample
250 spectral or tristimulus standards with Pass/Fail
Tolerances
100 product setups
Note: Every attempt at accuracy is made, but specifications are subject to change without
notice.
Note: Use of this equipment in a manner not specified by the manufacturer may impair the
protection afforded by the equipment. Danger of electric shock if liquids are spilled and fire
if volatile or flammable liquids are spilled. Use care when measuring liquid samples.
Regulatory Notice
A copy of the Declaration of Conformity according to ISO/IEC Guide 22 and EN 45014 follows:

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