HunterLab MiniScan EZ Owner's manual

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MiniScan®EZ
Supplemental Manual for EasyMatch®QC
Hunter Associates Laboratory
11491 Sunset Hills Road
Reston, Virginia 20190 USA
www.hunterlab.com
A60-1017-663
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 MiniScan EZ 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 MiniScan EZis 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
MINISCAN EZ FEATURES .............................................................................................. 5
MiniScan EZ Accessories.................................................................................................................6
MiniScan EZ Options and Sample Devices.......................................................................................7
MINISCAN EZ INSTALLATION........................................................................................ 9
Install EasyMatch® QC Software .....................................................................................................10
Activate the SoftKey License .........................................................................................................11
Add the Sensor ............................................................................................................................13
MINISCAN EZ STANDARDIZATION...............................................................................15
MINISCAN EZ MAINTENANCE AND TESTING................................................................17
Running the Repeatability Test ....................................................................................................17
Recharging/Replacing the Batteries..............................................................................................18
Replacing the Lamp......................................................................................................................18
Cleaning the MiniScan EZ .............................................................................................................18
MINISCAN EZ SPECIFICATIONS ....................................................................................19
Operating Conditions ...................................................................................................................19
Physical Characteristics ................................................................................................................19
Conditions of Illumination and Viewing........................................................................................19
System Power..............................................................................................................................20
Instrument Performance..............................................................................................................20
Regulatory Notice ........................................................................................................................20
INSTRUMENT REPLACEMENT, REPAIR, PROBLEMS, AND QUESTIONS .........................23
Warranty .....................................................................................................................................23
Shipping Claims............................................................................................................................23
Breakage or Damage .......................................................................................................................... 23
Shortage ............................................................................................................................................. 24
Incorrect Shipment............................................................................................................................. 24
Returns........................................................................................................................................25
Packing and Shipping Instruments for Repair.................................................................................... 25
When You Need Assistance..........................................................................................................26
INDEX .........................................................................................................................29

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MiniScan EZ Features
The MiniScan EZ spectrophotometer is a versatile color measurement instrument that can be used on
products of virtually any size, and in industries as diverse as paint and textiles. Because of its compact
design and portability, MiniScan EZ can be used to measure objects that would be difficult to position
at the measurement port of a larger color instrument normally found in a laboratory, and in locations
other than a laboratory.
Figure 1. Photo of MiniScan 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 indicative of the color of the sample. This is an objective means of quantifying
what was once considered a subjected aspect of a sample’s appearance—its color.
Note: Use of this equipment in a manner not specified by the manufacturer may impair the
protection afforded by the equipment. Take care not to drop the MiniScan EZ. If it is
dropped, have it evaluated for damage before operation.
MiniScan EZ is available in four different models based on viewing area and geometry. A label on the
bottom of the instrument provides this information.
Figure 2. Bottom of MiniScan EZ
45/0
MiniScan EZ

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Table 1. MiniScan EZ Versions
Model
Geometry
Viewing Area
MSEZ-4500L
45°/0°
Large
MSEZ-4500S
45°/0°
Small
MSEZ-4000L
Diffuse/8° (Sphere)
Large
MSEZ-4000S
Diffuse/8° (Sphere)
Small
The MiniScan EZ may be operated using the keypad and display on the instrument itself, and it may
also be operated while connected to a computer running EasyMatch QC. Therefore, having purchased
both a MiniScan EZ and EasyMatch QC, you have two sources of information on the instrument in
addition to this User’s Manual: the MiniScan EZ User’s Guide, which describes stand-alone operation,
and the EasyMatch QC help file, which describes operation of the MiniScan EZ using the software.
Refer to those information sources as required.
MiniScan EZ Accessories
The following accessories are included with the MiniScan EZ system and can be found in the provided
carrying case:
•Sample port cover - screws on over the sample port to protect the instrument’s optics when
it is not in use.
•Calibration cylinder - houses the NIST traceable white calibrated tile that is placed at the
sample port during standardization to set the top of the scale, the black glass or light trap
that is placed at the sample port during standardization to set the zero, and the green check
tile that is used to assess long-term instrument performance during the green tile test.
•Rechargeable batteries - a set of 6 rechargeable AA batteries and a charger (with 110V plug
and 220V adapter) are provided for continuing use of the MiniScan EZ.
•USB cable for connecting the MiniScan EZ to the computer.
•Certificate of traceability for the standard white tile.
•Tile data sheet - provides NIST-traceable calibrated values for the standard white tile and
values read at factory for the green tile.
•MiniScan EZ User’s Guide.
•Utility program.

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MiniScan EZ Options and Sample Devices
There are many options and devices available for positioning samples at the measurement ports of the
MiniScan EZ 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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MiniScan EZ Installation
The MiniScan EZ is simple to set up and attach to your computer. Before operating the MiniScan EZ
with EasyMatch QC, you need only 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. Open the battery compartment on the bottom of the MiniScan EZ.
Figure 3. Battery Compartment of the MiniScan EZ
3. Install the 6 AA batteries, observing the positive (+) and negative (-) polarity guides inside
the battery compartment.
Figure 4. Install AA Batteries
Note: The MiniScan EZ can use six standard AA alkaline batteries or six rechargeable AA
NiMH batteries. Do not mix battery types in the instrument. To recharge the NiMH
batteries, remove them from the instrument and recharge them using the supplied charger.
4. Close the battery compartment.
5. Plug the hexagonal (Mini-A) end of the USB cable into the USB port on the MiniScan EZ.

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Figure 5. USB Cable for Computer Connection
6. Plug the flat end of the USB cable into the appropriate USB port on the computer.
Windows’ plug and play feature automatically finds and installs the device. Let it do so until
the “Found new hardware” message disappears.
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 f. Otherwise, continue
with Step c.
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 6. EasyMatch 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 7. 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 8. 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 9. 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 10. 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 10), 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 5), 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.
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 the Software, Step 5 (Figure 11)
and select Sentinel Key to continue.

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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 11. 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 Install/ Configure command in the Sensor menu and install a new sensor.
2. The Sensor Manager appears first:
Figure 12. 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 13. Setup Sensor
Note: If using a typical 9-pin serial cable for communications between the sensor and PC,
select COM1. If using USB-to-serial adapter, then select the highest number COM Port No.
offered. If using USB communications, the COM port will automatically be selected.
4. Turn on the MiniScan EZ by switching the on/off switch on the back of the sensor to the
on position. Allow the instrument to warm up for two hours prior to standardizing and
making measurements.

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MiniScan EZ Standardization
The MiniScan EZ must be standardized on a regular basis to keep it operating properly. The
standardization interval is user selectable up to 8 hours. A prompt to standardize is provided if the
interval is exceeded.
Since the MiniScan EZ is battery operated, the unit will continue to take measurements until the
battery needs to be charged. Navigation will be enabled during this low battery period and allow the
download of measurements stored in the MiniScan EZ.
Standardization on a MiniScan EZ model with 45°/0° geometry requires reading of the black glass and
white tile that are contained in the calibration cylinder. Standardization on a diffuse/8° MiniScan EZ
requires you to read both the light trap and the white tile in the calibration cylinder.
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 MiniScan EZ firmware.
Bottom of Scale. Place the black glass (MiniScan EZ model with 45°/0) or light trap (diffuse/8°
MiniScan EZ) under the instrument port to read Bottom-of-Scale.
Figure 14. Black Glass Standardization for 45°/0°
Top-of-Scale. Place white tile under instrument for Top-of-Scale Reading.

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Figure 15. Top-of-Scale Reading for Standardization
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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MiniScan EZ Maintenance and Testing
The MiniScan EZ does require some maintenance. This chapter outlines the parts of the MiniScan EZ
you must maintain in order for the instrument to function properly and tests that you may run to
assess its performance.
Note: The MiniScan EZ contains hazardous voltages and no user-replaceable parts. It should be
disassembled only by HunterLab personnel.
Running the Repeatability Test
You may test the repeatability of your instrument as follows:
1. Turn the MiniScan EZ on and allow it to warm it up for 2 hours. Meanwhile, clean the white tile
as described on the next page and allow the tile to return to room temperature.
2. Follow the instructions given in the Sensor Menu > Diagnostics section to run the repeatability
test that is built into EasyMatch QC.
3. Standardize the instrument. Place the white tile flush at the port and read 20 times by pressing
Yes.
Figure 16. In Progress Repeatability Test
4. When the test is completed, a report is generated as shown in the next Figure.

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Figure 17. Repeatability Report
Recharging/Replacing the Batteries
When the battery level indicator on the MiniScan EZ screen has decreased to outline only, you should
replace the batteries with fresh or recharged ones.
Note: The MiniScan EZ can use six standard AA alkaline batteries or six rechargeable AA NiMH
batteries. Do not mix battery types in the instrument. It is best to use the rechargeable AA NiMH
batteries that come with the instrument. To recharge the NiMH batteries, remove them from the
instrument and recharge them using the supplied charger.
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.
Cleaning the MiniScan EZ
Clean the outside surfaces of the MiniScan EZ using a soft cloth. Do not spray liquids directly on the
instrument.

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MiniScan 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
MiniScan EZ can be stored in an area with a temperature range of -5°F to 150°F (-20°C to 65°C) for up
to 3 weeks and can be operated under temperature conditions of 50°F to 104°F (10°C to 40°C). For
specification-level performance, the recommended temperature range is 70-82°F (21-28°C). It may be
operated under relative noncondensing humidity conditions of 10% to 90%. Do not leave MiniScan EZ
in an area where temperature or humidity extremes are possible.
Physical Characteristics
Weight
1 kg (2.25 lb.)
Dimensions (HxWxD)
14 cm x 11 cm x 26.7 cm
5.5 in x 4.3 in x 10.5 in
Communications Interface
USB to computer or printer
RFI Compliance
FCC Class A (Commercial), IEC, or equivalent
Safety Compliance
UL, CSA, IEC, or equivalent
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
45°/0° Illumination
Annular, using a cylindrical mirror
Integrating Sphere
63.5 mm (2.5 in) diameter, coated with SpectraFlect; (diffuse/8°
instruments only)
Detection
2-channel polychromator with 256-element scanned array (half
for sample channel, half for monitor)
Port Diameters/View Diameters
45°/0° LAV model: 31.8 mm (1.25 in)/ 25 mm (1.0 in)
45°/0° SAV model: 6 mm (0.25 in)/ 5 mm (0.20 in)
Diffuse/8° LAV model: 25 mm (1.0 in)/ 20 mm (0.8 in)
Diffuse/8° SAV model: 14.3 mm (0.6 in)/ 8 mm (0.3 in)

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System Power
Power Input
Disposable or rechargeable AA batteries
Battery Life
>4,000 readings per charge
Instrument Performance
Spectral Data
Range: 400-700 nm
Reporting Interval: 10 nm
Bandwidth at Half-height
10 nm
Wavelength Accuracy
≤0.75 nm
Photometric Range
0-150% reflectance
Photometric Resolution
0.01% reflectance
Measurement Speed (at 23°C)
≤1.5 seconds
Measurement Storage Capacity
800 spectral readings
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 per ISO/IEC Guide 22 and EN 45014 follows on the next page.