Topcon Luminance Colorimeter BM-5AC User manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Luminance Colorimeter
Rev.7

1
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the TOPCON Luminance Colorimeter BM-5AC.
This instrument is a Luminance Colorimeter for measuring light with high precision from a natural light
source such as a CRT, PDP、LCD、LCD backlight, LED, light-storing materials, or the like, or reflected
light from a painted surface or printed material.
Read this manual carefully before using the BM-5AC in work applications.
Precautions for Use
・Be sure to only use the AC adapter supplied with this instrument, or a separately sold authorized
AC adapter. Using a non-authorized AC adapter may result in a malfunction. The input voltage
should be 100 VAC to 240 VAC, and the power supply frequency should be 50 Hz to 60 Hz.
・For energy saving, when the unit will not be used for an extended period of time, unplug the
power plug from the socket.
・Keep the instrument away from water and liquid. This instrument is not water-resistant.
・Before using this instrument, be sure to warm it up for at least 30 minutes. If this instrument is not
warmed up, output fluctuation may affect the measurement values, preventing highly accurate
measurement results from being obtained.
・When using this instrument over a prolonged period of time, calibrate it on average once every 1
hour. Output fluctuation of the photo detector may prevent highly accurate measurement results
from being obtained.
・Do not use this instrument for measuring bright objects that exceed the measurement range, or
for measuring extremely bright objects such as the sun. Doing so may damage the photo
detector and prevent stable measurement.
・Do not use this instrument in dusty, very damp or humid areas, or in areas where corrosive gas
may be generated.
・Do not use this instrument in areas where sudden changes in temperature might occur. This
instrument contains a temperature compensation function. However, stable measurement may
not be possible in environments where there are sudden changes in temperature.
・Do not subject this instrument to heavy impact such as dropping it. Also, avoid using or storing
this instrument in areas subjected to constant vibration. This instrument uses high-precision
optical parts and subjecting it to harsh conditions might cause a malfunction. Prevent this
instrument from being subjected to direct vibration or impact by placing it in a carrying case
when carrying it.
・When storing this instrument, put it in a carrying case, and store it at room temperature. Do not
store the instrument in a hot or humid environment such as inside an automobile.
・To maintain measurement precision, perform calibration and maintenance on average once a
year. When performing calibration, consult with your dealer or Topcon Technohouse Corporation.
・When requesting calibration, put this instrument in its carrying case, and then put it in a
cardboard box packed with shock-absorbing material before sending it.
・When calibration is performed, the measurement data stored in this instrument is deleted. Be
sure to transfer the measurement data to a PC before requesting calibration.
・Please do not peel off the sticker stuck on the back of the main unit. If you peel it off, all warranty
will be invalid.

2
Safety Indications
Warnings and Cautions are indicated on this instrument and in the instruction manual to prevent injury to
users and others, prevent damage to property or the like, and to ensure safe use of this instrument.
After fully understanding the following indications and symbols, carefully read the section "Safety
Precautions," and observe all precautions.
Display
Meaning
Ignoring this display might result in death or severe injury.
Ignoring this indication might result in injury*1, or physical damage*2.
*1: This refers to injury such as burns, electric shock or the like that does not require
hospitalization or long-term medical attention.
*2: Physical damage includes damage to the building, property, pets or the like.
Icons
Meaning
This indicates Hazard Alert (Warning).
Specific content is expressed with words or an image located close to the icon.
(Example: Be careful about an electric shock.)
This icon indicates Prohibition.
Specific content is expressed with words or an image located close to the
icon. (Example: Don’t touch the operating unit.)
This icon indicates Mandatory Action.
Specific content is expressed with words or an image located close to the icon.
(Example: Install earth ground.)
Warning
Caution

3
Safety Precautions
Warning
Do not use this instrument near flammable or combustible gases (gasoline, etc.).
Failure to do so might cause fire.
Keep the instrument away from water and liquid.
Doing so could cause fire or electric shock.
Do not disassemble or modify this instrument.
Doing so might cause fire or electric shock.
Be sure to use the supplied AC adapter or a separately sold and authorized AC
adapter.
AC adapter malfunctions may result in fire or electric shock.
Do not disassemble the AC adapter.
Doing so might cause fire or electric shock.
Remove dust or moisture from the AC adapter plug.
Failure to do so might cause fire.
If you notice strange noise, smell or smoke from this instrument, immediately turn
the instrument OFF and unplug the ＡＣ adapter from the power outlet.
Continued use of this instrument in this state might cause fire.
Contact your dealer or Topcon Technohouse Corporation.
Mandatory
Prohibited
Prohibited
Prohibited
Mandatory
Mandatory
Prohibited

4
Caution
Do not look directly at bright lights such as the sun or light bulb filaments.
Doing so might damage your eyes.
Do not place this instrument on an unstable stand or uneven surface.
Failure to do so might cause the instrument to fall or tip over.
Do not plug in or unplug the AC adapter with wet hands.
Doing so might cause electric shock.
Use only specified screws when using the tripod screw and screw holes for jig
attachment.
Do not tighten the screws any more than necessary. Doing so might cause internal
breakage.
Escape Clauses
・TOPCON does not assume any liability for damage to this instrument resulting in fire,
earthquake, actions of a third party, other accidents occurring due to negligence of the user,
unauthorized use, or other abnormal conditions.
・TOPCON does not assume any liability due to collateral damage (loss of business profit,
interruption of work, etc.) from the use of or inoperability of this instrument.
・TOPCON does not assume any liability for damage that occurs due to use other than that
explained in this instruction manual.
・TOPCON does not assume any liability for damage that occurs due to malfunctioning or the
like resulting from combined use with connected equipment.
User Maintenance
To maintain safety and performance, any maintenance work other than that explained in this
instruction manual should be performed only by a qualified service representative. The following
maintenance, however, can be performed by the user.
Cleaning the Cover and Lens
When the cover or lens becomes dirty, wipe the case or lens with a soft cloth that has been
dampened with mild detergent, and then dry with a dry soft cloth.
Do not use solvents such as paint thinner, benzene, acetone or the like. Doing so may discolor
the surface.
Cleaning the Fanmoter Filter
A dustproof filter has placed to fan motor on the main body side. When dust adheres to this filter,
internal heat radiation is hindered. Please wash the filter regularly with the mild detergent.
Prohibited
Prohibited
Prohibited
Mandatory

5
Table of Contents
Introduction.................................................................................................................................1
Safety Indications........................................................................................................................2
Safety Precautions......................................................................................................................3
Notation Rules Used in This Manual...........................................................................................8
1. Before Use................................................................................................................... 9
1.1 Checking the Unit and Supplied Parts..............................................................................9
1.2 Part Names and Functions.............................................................................................10
1.3 Preparation.....................................................................................................................15
1.4 Maintenance Recommended Message..........................................................................20
1.5 Error Display...................................................................................................................21
2.Measurement Operation............................................................................................ 23
2.1 Basic Measurement........................................................................................................23
2.1.1 Measuring the Light Source Color....................................................................................................................................................23
2.1.2 Measuring Object Color..........................................................................................................................................................................24
2.1.3 Absolute Value Measurement.............................................................................................................................................................25
2.1.4 Measuring Difference...............................................................................................................................................................................25
2.1.5 Measurement Result Display Mode................................................................................................................................................26
2.2 Various Measurement Examples....................................................................................27
2.2.1 Measuring a Light Source With Directivity...................................................................................................................................27
2.2.2 Measuring Minute Surfaces.................................................................................................................................................................27
2.2.3 Using the Instrument in Another System......................................................................................................................................28
2.2.4 Reducing Error between Multiple Luminance Colorimeters and Performing Measurement..........................28
2.2.5 Using the Analog Output Connector...............................................................................................................................................34
3. Various Settings ....................................................................................................... 36
3.1 Function Mode................................................................................................................36
3.1.1 Entering/Returning from Function Mode.......................................................................................................................................36
3.1.2 Displaying Data/Setting Items.............................................................................................................................................................37
3.1.3 Display Screens..........................................................................................................................................................................................38
3.1.4 Entering Numerical Values...................................................................................................................................................................41
3.2 Detailed Explanation of Function Mode..........................................................................42
3.2.1 Selecting Light Source/Object Color...............................................................................................................................................42
3.2.2 Selecting Measurement of Absolute Values/Difference.......................................................................................................46
3.2.3 Setting the Averaging Count................................................................................................................................................................47
3.2.4 Correction Factor.......................................................................................................................................................................................48
3.2.5 Area Correction Factor............................................................................................................................................................................58
3.2.6 Selecting the Interface............................................................................................................................................................................62
3.2.7 RS-232C Parameters..............................................................................................................................................................................63
3.2.8 Measurement Range...............................................................................................................................................................................64
3.2.9 Setting the Measurement Mode........................................................................................................................................................66

6
3.2.10 Selecting Filters in the Tristimulus Value Fixed Mode..........................................................................................................67
3.2.11 Selecting the Analog Output Response Speed (Analog Waveform Observation)................................................68
3.2.12 Buzzer Sound...............................................................................................................................................................................................69
3.2.13 Communication Format..........................................................................................................................................................................69
3.2.14 Maintenance Recommended Message.........................................................................................................................................70
3.2.15 Color Adjustment........................................................................................................................................................................................70
3.2.16 Range Retry Count...................................................................................................................................................................................71
4.CommunicationWithaPC.............................................................................................. 72
4.1 Communication Commands............................................................................................72
4.2 BM-5ACModeCommunicationCommands..............................................................................72
4.2.1 ST Command...............................................................................................................................................................................................75
4.2.2 CA Command...............................................................................................................................................................................................76
4.2.3 TF Command................................................................................................................................................................................................76
4.2.4 TS Command...............................................................................................................................................................................................76
4.2.5 RA0/RA1 Commands..............................................................................................................................................................................76
4.2.6 RM0/RM1 Commands.............................................................................................................................................................................77
4.2.7 R Commands................................................................................................................................................................................................77
4.2.8 X / Y / Z Commands.................................................................................................................................................................................77
4.2.9 AN/AF Commands....................................................................................................................................................................................77
4.2.10 FX/FY/FZ Commands..............................................................................................................................................................................78
4.2.11 FR Command...............................................................................................................................................................................................78
4.2.12 F Commands................................................................................................................................................................................................78
4.2.13 RF Command...............................................................................................................................................................................................78
4.2.14 WF Command..............................................................................................................................................................................................79
4.2.15 CF Command...............................................................................................................................................................................................79
4.2.16 FK Command...............................................................................................................................................................................................79
4.2.17 FKR Command............................................................................................................................................................................................80
4.2.18 FAG Command............................................................................................................................................................................................80
4.2.19 FO Command (O: alphabet)..........................................................................................................................................................80
4.2.20 CGL Command............................................................................................................................................................................................80
4.2.21 FGR Command...........................................................................................................................................................................................81
4.2.22 RGmKn Command....................................................................................................................................................................................81
4.2.23 RGmLn Command....................................................................................................................................................................................81
4.2.24 WGmKn Command...................................................................................................................................................................................82
4.2.25 WGmLn Command...................................................................................................................................................................................82
4.2.26 WHO/VER/SRL Command...................................................................................................................................................................82
4.2.27 CT Command...............................................................................................................................................................................................82
4.2.28 SCC Command...........................................................................................................................................................................................82
4.2.29 LCC Command...........................................................................................................................................................................................83
4.3 Remote Measurement Output Format ............................................................................84
4.4 BM-5AModeCommunicationCommands.................................................................................85
4.5 Error Codes.....................................................................................................................87

7
5. USB Driver................................................................................................................. 88
Appendix....................................................................................................................... 90
Specifications............................................................................................................................90
Appended Tables......................................................................................................................94
System Diagrams......................................................................................................................95
External Dimensions.................................................................................................................96
Internal Calculation Processing ................................................................................................97
Terminology............................................................................................................................... 99

8
Notation Rules Used in This Manual
The following notation rules are used in this manual.
Notation
Explanation
[MODE], [UP]
Indicates panel switches or titles of screens displayed on the display.
☞「」
Indicates a reference location in the manual.
☞『』
Indicates another manual used as a reference.
Request
Indicates items to keep in mind when performing an operation, or items
that require attention.
Memo
Indicates items to consider when performing an operation or information
that is useful.

1. Before Use
9
1. Before Use
1.1 Checking the Unit and Supplied Parts
Make sure that the main unit and all of the accessories are in proper order.
If there are any missing parts, contact your dealer or Topcon Technohouse Corporation.
･Main unit 1
･Objective lens cap 1
･Carrying case 1
･Instruction manual (Quick manual) 1
･AC adapter 1
･CD-ROM 1
(Instruction Manual, Colorimetry program CS-900A)
･USB cable 1
･Analog output plug 1
･Inspection report 1

1. Before Use
10
1.2 Part Names and Functions
■ Main Unit
Name
Function
Diopter adjustment ring
Used to adjust the focus of the reticle mark in the viewfinder.
Viewfinder shutter
selection knob
Incident light from the viewfinder can be blocked by setting this knob
to the CLOSE position.
When incident light from the viewfinder affects the measurement
results, for example, when the incident light is strong or when
measuring objects in weak light conditions, set the viewfinder shutter
selection knob to the CLOSE position.
Display
Backlit display for displaying various kinds of information such as
measurement results and measurement conditions.
Panel switches
Switches for starting/stopping measurement, for selecting
measurement conditions, and for performing calibration.
These switches also can be used for setting the various conditions in
the function mode. ☞"■ Panel Switches"
Measuring field selector knob
Used for selecting the measuring field.
The measuring field and size of the measurement area differ
depending on the measuring field. ☞"Appendix: Specifications"
USB connector
Connector for connecting the USB cable when performing
measurement in the remote mode. ☞"1.3 Preparation"
RS-232C connector
Connector for connecting the RS-232C cable when performing
measurement in the remote mode. ☞"1.3 Preparation"
Eyepiece
Display
Panel switches
Diopter adjustment ring
Handle
Measuring field selector
knob
RS-232C connector
USB connector
Analog output adjustment control (offset)
Analog output connector
Analog output adjustment control (gain)
Fan motor (suction inlet)
Viewfinder shutter
selection knob

1. Before Use
11
Analog output connector
Connector used for observing analog output.
The output of the photo detector can be observed as a voltage value.
☞"2.2.5 How to Use theAnalog Output Connector"
Analog output adjustment control
(gain)
Control for adjusting analog output gain.
The maximum output voltage value is approx. 4V.
Analog output adjustment control
(offset)
Control for adjusting analog output offset.
Name
Function
Power switch
Power switch for the instrument.
DC input connector
Connector for plugging in the output plug from the AC adapter
supplied with the instrument.
Focus ring
Used for adjusting the focus of the measurement object.
Tripod screw
Screw used when attaching the instrument to a tripod. A tripod mount
for JIS B 7103-1975 cameras is used for the screw.
Nominal designation: 1/4-20UNC Number of threads: 20
Pitch: 1.270 mm Depth: 6 mm
Jig attachment screws
Screws used when fitting into a system and for attaching the
instrument.
M4 x 0.7 (Diameter: 4 mm Pitch: 0.7 mm) screws.
Details ☞"Appendix: External Dimensions"
Request
Use only specified screws when using the tripod screw and screw holes for jig
attachment. Do not tighten the screws any more than necessary. Doing so might
cause internal breakage.
Tripod screw
Power switch
Jig attachment screws x4
Objective lens
DC input connector
Ratings plate
Focus ring

1. Before Use
12
■ Panel Switches
The panel switches have the following two functions:
○Functions used for measurement (displayed on left side of switch)
○Functions used for function mode (displayed on the bottom of switch)
Functions used for measurement
Name
Function
NORMAL/FINE switch
Switches the measurement range setting.
NORMAL
FINE
Measurement is performed in the same measurement
range for all tristimulus values X2YZ.
Measurement is performed in ideal measurement ranges
for each of X2YZ.
Memo
This switch is enabled when AUTO is set in the function
mode.
SINGLE/AVE. switch
Switches the averaging measurement setting.
SINGLE
AVERAGE
Averaging is not performed. The results of only 1
measurement are displayed.
Averaging is performed. Measurement is performed for
the number of times set in the function mode, and the
average value is displayed as the measurement result.
RUN/HOLD switch
Switches measurement start/stop.
CALIBRATION switch
This switch is used to perform calibration.
Calibration maintains the photo detector at a constant sensitivity level
to ensure stable measurement.
LAMP switch
Switches the backlight ON/OFF.
The backlight is set to ON when the power is turned ON.
LAMP switch
(FUNCTION switch)
MODE switch
(ENTER switch)
RUN/HOLD
switch
(CHANGE switch)
SINGLE/AVE. switch
(SHIFT switch)
CALIBRATION
switch
(ROTATION switch)
NORMAL/FINE
switch
Panel switches
Display
ROTATION
SHIFT
CHANGE
ENTER
FUNCTION
AV E .
MODE
SINGLE
HOLD
RUN
F I N E
NORMAL
CALIB
.
LAMP

1. Before Use
13
MODE switch
Switches the color coordinate system displayed on the display.
When this switch is pressed with measurement stopped
(MEAS./HOLD switch set to HOLD), the color coordinate system
displayed on the display is switched in the following order:
xy/L → u'v'/L → XYZ → Tc/duv/L
This switch is set to the xy/L mode when the power is turned ON.
Functions used for the function mode
Name
Function
FUNCTION switch
This button is used to enter and return from the function mode.
To enter the function mode, hold down this switch for about 2
seconds. Pressing this switch again returns the mode to the
measurement mode.
ENTER switch
This button is used to change the display page and to store data to
memory after entering values.
CHANGE switch
This switch is used to change settings.
When this switch is pressed, the cursor flashes. Enter the new data
in this state.
ROTATION switch
This switch is used to select parameters. Each press of this switch
successively displays selection candidates. The displayed content
differs according to the parameter type.
Example: ･→0→1→2→ ……… →8→9→ ＋→－→Ｅ→･→
……… 2400→4800→9600→19200→38400→2400→
……… EVEN→ODD→NONE→EVEN→ ………
SHIFT switch
This switch is used to move the entry digit when entering numerical
values for multiple digits.
The entry digit moves from the highest order digit to the lowest order
digit.

1. Before Use
14
■ Display
・Top screen
This screen is displayed when the power is turned ON.
・Calibration execution screen
This screen is displayed when calibration is being executed.
Measurement result display screens
This screen is displayed after measurement ends.
F2.0 ABS K00 G00- 0
x= 0.4476 --
y = 0 . 4 0 7 4
L= 1.000E+02 cd/m^2
Measuring Field
3 deg/2 deg/1 deg/
0.2 deg/0.1 deg
Absolute value measurementABS/
Difference measurement DIF
Luminance/
chromaticity mode
L x y
Luminance/
chromaticity mode
L u’ v’
Tristimulus value
mode
X Y Z
Color temperature/
deviation/luminance
mode
Tc duv L
Correction factor group
00-0: No correction factor group
xx-y : Correction factor group
xx : 01 –10 y: 1 - 5
Correction factor
00 : No correction factor
01 –10 : Correction factor number
Under range display
** Start BM-5AC **
** Ver *.** **
Calibrating
F2.0 ABS K00 G00- 0
u ’ = 0.2560
v ’ = 0.5242
L= 1.000E+02 cd/m^2
F2.0 ABS K00 G00- 0
X= 1.099E+02
Y= 1.000E+02 cd/m^2
Z= 3.559E+01
F2.0 ABS K00 G00- 0
T c = 2 8 5 6
D u v = 0 . 0 0 0
L= 1.000E+02 cd/m^2

1. Before Use
15
1.3 Preparation
■Connecting the AC Adapter
Be sure to use the supplied AC adapter or a separately sold and authorized
AC adapter.
AC adapter failure may result in fire or electric shock.
Remove dust or moisture from the AC adapter plug.
Failure to do so might cause fire.
Do not plug in or unplug the AC adapter plug with wet hands.
Doing so might cause electric shock.
The following explains the procedure for connecting theAC adapter to the instrument.
1Make sure that the instrument is turned OFF.
2Insert the connector on the output side of the AC adapter to the DC input connector of the
instrument.
Prohibited
Mandatory
Mandatory

1. Before Use
16
3Plug the AC adapter plug into the power outlet.

1. Before Use
17
■Connecting to a PC
When connecting the BM-5AC to a PC, use an RS-232C cable or USB cable. When using an RS-
232C cable, use a DOS/V PC-compatible straight cable. Up to 16 instruments can be connected
to a single PC using the USB cable. Joint use of the USB cable with the RS-232C interface also
is possible. Note, however, that the USB and RS-232C cables cannot be used at the same time
on a single BM-5AC.
・The RS-232C connection cables are not supplied with the main unit. They should be
purchased separately.
・For details regarding the connection on the PC side, refer to the manual for the PC being
used.
USB connection
- BM-5AC side - - PC side -
RS-232C connection
- BM-5AC side - - PC side -
The RS-232C specifications for the instrument are as follows.
･Cable DOS/V PC-compatible straight cable
･Transmission mode Full duplex
･Synchronous system Start-stop synchronization
･Baud rate 2400/4800/9600/19200/38400 bps
･Bit configuration Data length 7 bits/8 bits
Parity EVEN/ODD/NONE
Stop bit 1 bit/2 bits
･Communication format ASCII format
･Delimiter "CR+LF" or "CR" are added to the end of the communication data
strings.
Instrument settings
To use the instrument connected to a PC, make the following settings in the function mode.
･Interface selection RS-232C/USB ☞"3.2.6 Selecting the Interface"
･Selecting RS-232C communication parameters ☞"3.2.7 RS-232C Parameters"
Memo

1. Before Use
18
■Collimation of the Measurement Object
Do not look directly at bright lights such as the sun or light bulb filaments.
Doing so might damage your eyes.
Request
Use only specified screws when using the tripod screw and screw holes for jig
attachment. Do not tighten the screws any more than necessary. Doing so might
cause internal breakage.
1Set the instrument on a tripod or the like.
2Remove the cap from the objective lens.
3Set the viewfinder shutter to OPEN.
4Look into the eyepiece, and turn the diopter adjustment ring of the eyepiece so that the
reticle marks are clearly seen in the view finder.
5 Collimate the measurement object, and turn the focus ring of the objective lens to adjust
the focus on the measurement object.
6 Change the measuring field according to the size and brightness of the measurement
object.
･When changing the measuring field, use the measuring field selector switch.
･The current measuring field is displayed on the display.
Measuring field selector switch, LCD display ☞"1.2 Part Names and Functions"
･The measurable luminance range differs according to the measuring field.
☞"Appendix: Specifications Luminance Display Ranges"
Prohibited
Memo
Reticle mark