HunterLab ColorFlex EZ User 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 1.2

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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 EZ INSTALLATION....................................................................................7
Install EasyMatch QC Software ............................................................................................................ 7
Activate the SoftKey License............................................................................................................... 8
Add the Sensor................................................................................................................................. 10
GETTING STARTED WITH COLORFLEX EZ...................................................................13
Standardization................................................................................................................................ 13
Sensor > Configure Setups ............................................................................................................... 14
Upload........................................................................................................................................... 14
Download...................................................................................................................................... 14
Edit................................................................................................................................................ 15
Reading Samples and Standards...................................................................................................... 15
Product Standard........................................................................................................................... 16
Sample .......................................................................................................................................... 16
Sensor > Import Logged Reads......................................................................................................... 16
Retrieve Data................................................................................................................................. 16
Sort By Log .................................................................................................................................... 17
Sort by Setup................................................................................................................................. 17
Select All........................................................................................................................................ 17
Copy to Job.................................................................................................................................... 17
Copy to Database .......................................................................................................................... 17
COLORFLEX EZ MAINTENANCE AND TESTING ...........................................................19
Cleaning of the ColorFlex EZ............................................................................................................. 19
Diagnostic Test #1: Running Short Term Repeatability ................................................................... 19
Diagnostic Test #2: Running Long Term Repeatability .................................................................... 19
Replacing the Lamp.......................................................................................................................... 19
COLORFLEX EZ SPECIFICATIONS ...............................................................................21
Operating Conditions....................................................................................................................... 21
Physical Characteristics.................................................................................................................... 21

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Conditions of Illumination and Viewing........................................................................................... 21
Instrument Performance.................................................................................................................. 22
Regulatory Notice ............................................................................................................................ 22
ColorFlex Options and Sample Devices............................................................................................ 23
Sample Clamp and Port-Forward Stand (D02-1010-459)................................................................ 23
Skein Holder Option (02-7396-00) ................................................................................................. 24
Port Inserts.................................................................................................................................... 24
Glass Port Insert ............................................................................................................................ 25
UV Port Insert 420nm .................................................................................................................... 25
Sample Cup with Ring and Disk Set for Translucent Liquids (CFLX-SC ASSY & LSXE-SC-ASSY).......... 26
Sample Cup Port Plate ................................................................................................................... 27
64mm (2.5in) Glass Sample Cup .................................................................................................... 27
Sample Cup Opaque Cover ............................................................................................................ 27
Ring and Disk Set ........................................................................................................................... 27
WHEN YOU NEED ASSISTANCE.................................................................................29
INDEX.....................................................................................................................31

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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.
•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

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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 Step3.
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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Getting Started with ColorFlex EZ
Standardization
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.
Standardization sets the top and bottom-of-scale for the neutral axis. During standardization, the
bottom-of-scale (zero) is set first. his is done by placing the Black Glass at the sample port. The top-of-
scale is then set by reading the calibrated White Tile. Messages on the display prompt through the
standardization process as described below.
It is recommended that the ColorFlex EZ be standardized every four to eight hours. The instrument will
automatically prompt for standardization after the Standardization Interval set in SENSOR > SET
INTERVAL has elapsed, so it is a good idea to enter 4 to 8 hours as the Standardization Interval.
Also standardize the ColorFlex EZ any time there is a significant change (greater than 5°F) in ambient
temperature. For example, if the ColorFlex EZ is moved an air-conditioned office to an outdoor site that
is 90°F, standardization should be repeated once the instrument has had a chance to stabilize under
the new temperature. Also standardize the instrument any time there is a change in the optical path,
such as changing from using the standard port to the sample cup port.
Also, it is important that the standards used in standardization be treated carefully. Tiles must be kept
clean and in good condition. If there is any doubt about the standards being clean, clean them as
described in the Maintaining and Testing ColorFlex EZ chapter.
Standardization of a ColorFlex EZ is performed as follows:
1. Remove the calibration tiles from the standards box. Check that the tiles are clean and free
of dust and scratches. If they are dirty (including marked with fingerprints), clean them as
described in Maintaining and Testing ColorFlex EZ.
2. SELECT SENSOR > STANDARDIZE from the EasyMatch QC. The Standardization screen
appears, prompting for the Black Glass.Place the Black Glass on the measuring port with the
shiny side of the glass against the port. Check that the Black Glass is flat and in solid contact
against the port and that the white dot is facing forward towards the operator.
Figure 10. Place Black Glass at Port

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3. The ColorFlex EZ reads the BLACK GLASS and sets the bottom-of-scale. When it is finished,
the screen prompts for the calibrated WHITE TILE. Replace the Black Glass with the
calibrated White Tile, which is contained in the standards box.
Figure 11. White Tile Reading
4. The ColorFlex EZ reads the White Tile and sets the top of scale. When it is finished, the
screen indicates that the instrument has been successfully standardized.
Sensor > Configure Setups
For Product Measurements, the Setup Groups window appears to create, edit, or delete setup groups
and upload, modify, and download individual setups.
Figure 12. Configure Setups
Upload
When you click UPLOAD, the setups stored in the instrument are brought into EasyMatch QC.
These setups can then be edited, if desired. The setups can also be saved as a setup group by
typing a name into the white box or selecting a name from the drop-down list and clicking
SAVE. Later, you can select the desired group and click GET to retrieve that saved group of
setups or DELETE to delete the group of setups.
Download
When you click DOWNLOAD, the setups in the current EasyMatch QC setup group are sent back
to the instrument.

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Edit
When you click EDIT, the Product Setup Configuration screen appears.
Figure 13. Product Setup
Use the scroll bar next to Setup Number or type a setup number into the box to choose a setup with
which to work. If you wish to begin working with the version of the setup that is already resident in
your instrument, click RETRIEVE. If you wish to work with the version of the setup that is shown on-
screen, do not click RETRIEVE.
Alter the setup parameters as desired. The parameters and selections available are the same as those
configured through your instrument firmware. If you are using a physical standard, you may click the
READ STANDARD button to read the standard to be saved with the setup using your instrument or
RECALL STANDARD to recall a standard from your EasyMatch QC database to be saved with the setup.
When all parameters are as desired for this setup, click UPDATE SENSOR to send the setup to your
instrument. You may retrieve all the setups from the instrument at once using the RETRIEVE ALL
button or send all the setups back to the instrument at once using the UPDATE ALL SETUPS button.
Complete the following steps to take individual readings using the ColorFlex EZ:
Note: These instructions apply when Average in the product setup is set to OFF.
Reading Samples and Standards
From the MEASUREMENTS MENU, you may read either a standard or a sample. You may also average
data. The functions available through the MEASUREMENTS MENU are described in the EasyMatch QC
Reference Manual.
It is recommended that the instrument be standardized at least once every four hours. Then you may
proceed with sample measurement.

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Product Standard
A product standard is an object that represents the ideal target color for the product. This
object is the one to which others will be compared and deemed acceptable or unacceptable.
The product standard may either be a physical item that is measured using the ColorFlex EZ or a
set of color values that is entered into EasyMatch QC. .
Sample
A sample is an object that will be measured with the ColorFlex EZ and compared to the product
standard. The color of the sample is generally like the color of the product standard.
Sensor > Import Logged Reads
The SENSOR > IMPORT LOGGED READS command appears when the connected instrument is a
ColorFlex EZ. There must be items saved to the instrument datalog in order to use this command.
The Data log screen appears first.
Figure 14. Data Log Screen
Retrieve Data
Copies of the measurements stored in the instrument’s datalog can be retrieved to the Data log
screen.
Figure 15. Retrieve Data
Once the measurements are shown, the remainder of the buttons at the bottom of the screen
become active and serve the following functions:

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Sort By Log
Causes the measurements shown in the Data log window to be sorted by their instrument
datalog ID numbers for easier viewing.
Sort by Setup
Causes the measurements shown in the Data log window to be sorted by their instrument
setup numbers for easier viewing.
Select All
Selects (highlights) all the measurements shown on the Data log screen so that the COPY TO
JOB or COPY TO DATABASE command may be applied to all of them at once. (The alternative to
SELECT ALL is to use the Windows convention of clicking on a single item to select it, CTRL +
clicking on multiple items to select them, or SHIFT + clicking on the first and last of a list of
items to select all the items between.)
Copy to Job
Places the measurements that are currently selected into the active job. Standards are
automatically placed in the job as standards. You are prompted to indicate the standard under
which samples should be saved.
Copy to Database
Places the measurements that are currently selected into the database. Standards are saved as
standards and samples as samples, and the datalog ID number is used as the item ID.
The measurements copied to the job or EasyMatch QC database are NOT deleted from the
instrument’s datalog. If you wish to delete them, you must do so manually though the
instrument firmware.

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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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