Topcon BM-7AC User manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
LUMINANCE COLORIMETER
Rev.2

1
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the TOPCON TECHNOHOUSE Luminance Colorimeter BM-7AC.
This instrument is a Luminance Colorimeter for measuring light with high precision from a light emitting
element such as a CRT, LCD, LCD backlight, LED or the like, or reflected light from a painted surface or
printed material.
Read this manual carefully before using the BM-7AC 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 another AC adapter could result in trouble. The input voltage
should be 100V to 240V AC, 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.
・Do not use the instrument for measuring bright objects that exceed the measurement range, or
for measuring extremely bright objects such as the sun. It may cause damage the photo-
detector, and stable measurement may not be possible.
・Do not use the instrument in dusty, very damp or humid areas, or in areas where corrosive gas
may be generated.
・Do not use the instrument in areas where sudden changes in temperature could occur. This
instrument contains temperature compensation circuit; however, stable measurement may not
be possible in environments where there are sudden changes in temperature.
・Do not subject the instrument to large impact such as dropping it, and avoid using or storing
the instrument in areas where there is constant vibration. This instrument uses high-precision
optical parts, so subjecting the instrument to harsh conditions could result in trouble. Be
careful that the instrument is not subjected to direct vibration or shock by placing it in a
carrying case (optional) when carrying it.
・When storing the instrument, put it in a carrying case (optional), and store it at room
temperature. Do not store the instrument in a hot or humid environment such as inside an
automobile.
・In order to maintain measurement precision, perform calibration at least once a year. When
performing calibration, consult with the dealer or TOPCON TECHNOHOUSE CORPORATION.
・When requesting calibration, put the instrument in its carryin case (optional), and then put it in
a carton box full of shock-absorbing material before sending it. If the carrying case has not
been purchased, consult with your dealer or TOPCON TECHNOHOUSE CORPORATION.
・When calibration is performed, the measurement coefficient stored in this instrument will be
deleted. Be sure to transfer the measurement coefficient 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
Display for safe use
In order to prevent unforeseeable injury to users and others, prevent damage to property or the like, and in
order that the instrument is used safely, important items are indicated on the instrument and in the
instruction manual.
After gaining a good understanding of the following displays and notation, carefully read the section 'Safety
Precautions', and obey all precautions.
Display
Meaning of Display
Ignoring this display could result in death or severe injury.
Ignoring this display could result in injury * 1, or physical damage * 2.
* 1: This indicates injury such as a burn, 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.
Symbols
Meaning of Symbols
Indicates things that are prohibited.
A detailed explanation of the prohibition is indicated within the symbol, or is
indicated by a symbol and text.
Indicates an instruction (something that should be performed).
A detailed explanation of the instruction is indicated within the symbol, or is
indicated by a symbol and text.
Indicates a caution (including warnings).
A detailed explanation of the caution is indicated within the symbol, or is
indicated by a symbol and text.
Warning
Caution

3
Safety Precautions
Warning
Do not use the instrument in areas near flammable or combustible vapors (gasoline, etc.).
Doing so could be the cause of 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 could cause fire or electric shock.
Only use the supplied AC adapter, or separately sold authorized AC adapter.
Malfunction of the AC adapter could cause fire or electric shock.
Do not disassemble the AC adapter.
Doing so could cause fire or electric shock.
Remove any dust or moisture from the AC adapter plug.
Failure to do so could cause fire.
In the case of any strange noise, smell or smoke from the instrument, immediately turn
OFF the power to the device and unplug the AC adapter from the power outlet.
Continuing to use the device as is could cause fire.
Contact the dealer or TOPCON TECHNOHOUSE CORPORATION.
Mandatory
Prohibited
Prohibited
Mandatory
Prohibited
Mandatory
Prohibited

4
Caution
Do not look directly into the sun or at the light bulb filament.
Doing so could result in damage to the eyes.
Do not put the instrument on an unstable stand or uneven surface.
Doing so could cause the instrument to fall or tip over.
Do not plug in or unplug the plug with wet hands.
Doing so could 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 Clause
・This company bears no liability for damage to the instrument resulting fire, earthquake, behavior
of a third party, other accidents occurring due to negligence of the user, unauthorized use, or
other abnormal conditions
・This company does not bear any liability due to collateral damage (loss in business profit,
interruption of work, etc.) from the use of or inoperability of the instrument.
・This company bears no liability for damage that occurs due to use other than that explained in
this instruction manual.
・This company bears no liability for damage that occurs due to malfunctioning or the like
resulting from combined use with connected equipment.
User Maintenance
In order to maintain safety and performance, any maintenance work other than that instructed in
this manual should only be performed by a qualified service representative. However, the
following maintenance 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, then dry with a dry soft cloth.
Do not use solvents such as thinner, benzene, acetone or the like. It may cause discolor the
surface.
Prohibited
Prohibited
Prohibited
Mandatory

5
Table of Contents
Introduction................................................................................................................................................................................1
Display for safe use................................................................................................................................................................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 Function.................................................................................................................................... 10
1.3 Preparation................................................................................................................................................................ 18
1.3.1 Connecting the AC Adapter ....................................................................................................................................................................18
1.3.2 Connecting a PC...........................................................................................................................................................................................20
1.3.3 Collimation of the Measured Object ....................................................................................................................................................22
1.3.4 Turning ON/OFF the Power....................................................................................................................................................................23
1.3.5 Switching the Response Speed of the Photo-Receiver Circuit..............................................................................................24
1.4 Maintenance Recommended Display............................................................................................................... 25
1.5 Error Display............................................................................................................................................................. 26
2. Measurement Operation..................................................................................................................................28
2.1 Example of use ........................................................................................................................................................ 28
2.1.1 Measuring a Light Source Having Directivity...................................................................................................................................28
2.1.2 Measuring a Minute Surface....................................................................................................................................................................28
2.1.3 Using the Unit in a other device............................................................................................................................................................29
2.1.4 Reducing instrumental error between a plurality of instruments............................................................................................29
2.2 Absolute Value Measurement............................................................................................................................ 34
2.3 Difference Measurement...................................................................................................................................... 35
2.4 Measuring the Light Source Color ................................................................................................................... 36
2.5 Measuring the Object Color................................................................................................................................ 37
2.6 Measurement Value Display Mode................................................................................................................... 38
2.7 Using the Analog Output Connector............................................................................................................... 40
2.7.1 Relationship Between Analog Output Voltage and Luminance................................................................................................40
2.7.2 Analog Output Response Speed............................................................................................................................................................41
2.7.3 Usage .................................................................................................................................................................................................................41
3. Various Settings.................................................................................................................................................42
3.1 Function Mode ......................................................................................................................................................... 42
3.1.1 Entering /Returning from the Function Mode .................................................................................................................................42

6
3.1.2 Data/Setting Item Display........................................................................................................................................................................43
3.1.3 Numerical Value Setting............................................................................................................................................................................44
3.2 Standard sample ..................................................................................................................................................... 45
3.3 White Board .............................................................................................................................................................. 45
3.4 White Board Luminance Factor......................................................................................................................... 46
3.5 White Board Correction Factor......................................................................................................................... 46
3.6 Correction Factor................................................................................................................................................... 47
3.6.1 Checking/Setting the Correction Factor...........................................................................................................................................48
3.6.2 Inputting the Correction Factor.............................................................................................................................................................49
3.6.3 Clearing the Correction Factor..............................................................................................................................................................52
3.7 Area Correction Factor........................................................................................................................................ 53
3.7.1 Setting an Area Correction Factor.......................................................................................................................................................55
3.7.2 Displaying an Area Correction Factor.................................................................................................................................................55
3.8 Measurement Range.............................................................................................................................................. 56
3.9 RS-232C Parameters ........................................................................................................................................... 57
3.10 Buzzer Sound........................................................................................................................................................... 58
3.11 Communication Format........................................................................................................................................ 58
3.12 Average Measure.................................................................................................................................................... 59
3.13 Maintenance Recommended Display............................................................................................................... 59
4. Communication With a PC..............................................................................................................................60
4.1 Communication Commands ................................................................................................................................ 60
4.2 BM-7A Series Mode Communication Commands...................................................................................... 60
4.2.1 ST Command ..................................................................................................................................................................................................62
4.2.2 CA Command..................................................................................................................................................................................................63
4.2.3 TF Command ..................................................................................................................................................................................................63
4.2.4 TS Command ..................................................................................................................................................................................................63
4.2.5 MA Command .................................................................................................................................................................................................63
4.2.6 MM Command.................................................................................................................................................................................................64
4.2.7 FR Command ..................................................................................................................................................................................................64
4.2.8 F Command .....................................................................................................................................................................................................64
4.2.9 R Command.....................................................................................................................................................................................................65
4.2.10 W Command ....................................................................................................................................................................................................65
4.2.11 CF Command..................................................................................................................................................................................................65
4.2.12 FK Command ..................................................................................................................................................................................................66
4.2.13 FKR Command ...............................................................................................................................................................................................66
4.2.14 FAG Command...............................................................................................................................................................................................66
4.2.15 FO Command..................................................................................................................................................................................................67
4.2.16 CGL Command...............................................................................................................................................................................................67

7
4.2.17 FGR Command...............................................................................................................................................................................................67
4.2.18 RG K Command...........................................................................................................................................................................................68
4.2.19 RG L Command .............................................................................................................................................................................................68
4.2.20 WG K Command ............................................................................................................................................................................................68
4.2.21 WG L Command.............................................................................................................................................................................................69
4.2.22 WHO/VER/SRL Command.......................................................................................................................................................................69
4.2.23 UT Command..................................................................................................................................................................................................69
4.2.24 CT Command..................................................................................................................................................................................................70
4.2.25 AM/SM Command........................................................................................................................................................................................70
4.3 Remote Measurement Output Format............................................................................................................ 71
4.4 Communication Commands for the BM-7fast Mode................................................................................. 73
4.5 Error Code................................................................................................................................................................. 74
5. USB Driver...........................................................................................................................................................75
Appendix ....................................................................................................................................................................77
Specifications......................................................................................................................................................................... 77
Appended Tables .................................................................................................................................................................. 82
System Diagram.................................................................................................................................................................... 83
External Dimensions............................................................................................................................................................ 84
Internal Calculation Processing ...................................................................................................................................... 85
Terminology ............................................................................................................................................................................ 87
Warranty.....................................................................................................................................................................88
Contact information:..............................................................................................................................................89

8
Notation Rules Used in This Manual
The following notation rules are used in this manual.
Notation
Explanation
[MODE], [UP]
Indicates buttons, or title of the screen displayed on the LCD display.
☞「」
Indicates a reference location in the manual.
☞『』
Indicates another manual 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 following supplied parts are in proper order.
If there are any missing parts, contact the dealer or TOPCON TECHNOHOUSE CORPORATION.
・Main unit 1
・Instruction manual(Quick manual) 1
・AC adapter 1
・Inspection report 1
・CD-ROM 1
(Instruction manual / Colorimetry program CS-900A)
・Carrying case (option) 1
・Analog output plug 3 * For analogue output model only

1. Before Use
10
1.2 Part Names and Function
■Main Body
Name
Function
Inner switches/buttons
Buttons for performing various settings in the
function mode, and dip switches for performing
various settings for the remote mode, change in
object color etc.
☞「■ Inner Switches/Buttons」
Diopter adjustment ring
Used when adjusting the focus of the finder on the
reticle mark.
LCD
LCD with backlight for displaying various kinds of
information such as measurement results and
measurement conditions.
Panel switches
Switches for starting/stopping measurement, and
switches for changing the response speed of the
photo-receiver circuits and display mode.
☞「■ Panel Switches」
Power switch
Power switch to the instrument.
DC input connector
Connector for plugging in the output plug from AC
adapter.
USB connector
Connector for connecting a PC when performing
measurement in the remote mode.
PC connection ☞「1.3.2 Connecting a PC」
RS-232C connector
Connector for connecting a PC when performing
measurement in the remote mode.
PC connection ☞「1.3.2 Connecting a PC」
Eyepiece
Handle
Objective lens
RS-232C connector
LCD
Panel switches
USB connector
Diopter adjustment ring
Analog output connector (X, Y, Z)
* Analog output model only
Inner switches/buttons
Power switch
DC input connector

1. Before Use
11
Name
Function
Analog output connector
* Analog output is a function only
used for analog output model.
Connected when using analog output.
There are three connectors corresponding to
tristimulus value X, Y, Z.
・Use the manual range when using this output.
Request
・Do not insert or remove connectors when the power of the instrument is ON.
・Only uses the authorized AC adapter.
Memo

1. Before Use
12
Name
Function
Focus ring
Used when focusing on the measured object during measurement.
Focus ring set screw hole
When the instrument is used in a stationary position and it is not
necessary to adjust the focus, a screw is screwed into this hole and the
ring is fix.
Screws that can be used are a metric M3 screw, round-tipped, 5mm long
or more slotted set screw, or hexagonal socket head set screw.
Tool attachment screws
Used when assembling a system, and are screws for attaching the
BM-7AC.
M4×0.7 (Dia: 4 ㎜, Pitch: 0.7 ㎜) screws
Details ☞「Appendix: External Dimensions」
Tripod screw
Screw used when attaching the instrument to a tripod.
Nominal designation: 1/4-20UNC No, of threads: 20
Pitch: 1.270 ㎜Depth: 6 ㎜
Measuring field selector switch
Used when selecting the measurement angle.
The size of the measurement range and measurement areas differ
depending on measuring angle.
Details ☞「Appendix: Specifications」
Request
・Only use a specified screw in the Focus ring set screw hole. Do not tighten the screw
any more than necessary. It may cause internal breakage.
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
Focus ring
Measuring field
selector switch
Focus ring set screw hole
Name plate
Tool attachment screws x 4

1. Before Use
13
■Panel Switches
The function of each of the switches is as described below.
AUTO/MANU Switch
This switche is used to select AUTO or MANUAL measurement ranges.
The range is set to AUTO when the power is ON.
AUTO range: Automatically sets the measurement range according to the brightness of the
object being measured.
MANUAL range: Performs measurement in the measurement range set in the function mode.
Used when using analog output.
Factory default setting is range 3.
FAST/SLOW Switch
This switch is uded to select the response speed of the photo-receiver circuit. The response
speed is the time required for the analog output of the instrument to reach 90% of the peak value
when measuring an LED driven by a square wave from a function generator.
SLOW is set when the power is ON, and SLOW is used for normal measurement.
FAST : The response speed of the photo-receiver circuit is increased.
This is set when measuring fixed light such as the sun or halogen lamp, and a light
source having high frequency lamp such as a LCD.
Set when measuring a flashing light source and analog output is connected to an
oscilloscope. (Analog output is only used for analog output model.)
The response speed differs depending on the measurement range (30 milliseconds
to 1 millisecond).
SLOW : The response speed of the photo-receiver circuit is decreased.
This is used for normal measurement such as measuring fixed light, and flashing
light such as high-frequency flashing light, fluorescent light, and a CRT.
Set when recording waveforms of analog output using a pen recorder.
LCD
AUTO/MANU
switch
RUN/HOLD switch
FAST/SLOW switch
LIGHT switch
MODE switch
CAL switch

1. Before Use
14
RUN/HOLD Switch
This switch is used to select free-run status or hold status for display.
This switch is set to RUN when the power is ON.
It is also used as a switch for starting measurement of a standard sample, or white board.
CAL Switch
This switch is used to perform zero-adjustment.
Internal shutter of BM-7AC make a shaded state and perform measurement in the shaded state,
and saves the value.
The saved value in the shaded state is subtracted from the measurement value and the result is
displayed.
Zero-adjustment should be performed with the cap to the Eyepiece attached.
MODE Switch
By pressing this switch in the HOLD state (when [HOLD] of the RUN/HOLD switch is blinking),
the display mode of the measurement data can be changed.
Each time the switch is pressed, the display mode changes as shown below.
xy/L →u'v'/L →XYZ →Tc/duv/L →xy/L ……
This switch is set to xy/L mode when the power is turned ON.
LIGHT Switch
This switch is used to switches ON/OFF the lighting (backlight) to the LCD.
The switch is set ON when the power is turned ON.
■Inner Switches/Buttons
―Buttons ―
FUNCTION
This button is used to enter/return from the function mode.
Press this button once to enter function mode, and press it again to return form function mode.
ENTER
This button is used when changing the display page and when storing the data in the memory
after entering value.
CHANGE
This button is used to change setting.
ON
Dip switches
ON
LOCAL
REMOTE
USB
RS-232C
SOURCE
OBJECT
ABS
DIF
FACTOR A
FACTOR B
PROTECT
WRITE
ON ONLY
ON ONLY
1
22
3
4
5
6
7
8
FUNCTION
ENTER
CHANGE
ROTATION
SHIFT
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Buttons

1. Before Use
15
ROTATION
This button is used to select a parameter to be inputted.
Each time the button is pressed, the selection candidate is displayed in order.
The displayed contents differ according to the parameter type.
Example : ・→0 →1→2 →……… →8 →9 →＋→－→Ｅ→・→………
2400 →4800 →9600 →19200 →38400 →2400 →………
EVEN →ODD →NONE →EVEN →………
SHIFT
This button is used to move among digits when entering a multi-digit numerical value.
It moves from the highest order digit to the lowest order digit.
―Dip Switches ―
1 LOCAL/REMOTE
This switch is used to select the control state of the instrument.
LOCAL : Sets the LOCAL mode.
REMOTE : Sets the REMOTE mode.
Request
・The connection method is read into the instrument when the power is turned
ON. To change the setting、turn the power OFF and ON again.
2 USB/RS-232C
This switch is used to select the connection method between the instrument and PC.
USB : Connection with PC through USB.
RS-232C : Connection with PC through RS-232C.
Request
・The connection method is read into the instrument when the power is turned
ON. To change the setting、turn the power OFF and ON again.
3 SOURCE/OBJECT
SOURCE : Set when measuring the light source.
OBJECT : Set when measuring the object.
Request
・The connection method is read into the instrument when the power is turned
ON. To change the setting、turn the power OFF and ON again.
4 ABS/DIF
This switch is used to select the display between an absolute value and difference.
ABS : Sets the absolute value display.
DIF : Sets the difference display.
・This switch can be changed during power ON.
Memo

1. Before Use
16
5 FACTOR A/B
FACTOR A : Select when setting a single correction factor.
The correction is set in the function mode.
FACTOR B : Select when setting the direct correction function, using other instrument
BM-7AC, SC-777 or SR-3. The correction is set in the function mode.
Function Mode ☞「3.1 Function Mode」
Direct Correction Function
☞「2.1.4 Reducing Error Among a Plurality of
Measurement Instruments and Performing
Measurement」
・This switch can be changed during power ON.
6 NC
This is an empty switch and should always be set to the ON side.
7 NC
This is an empty switch and should always be set to the ON side.
8 PROTECT/WRITE
PROTECT : Prevents writing to internal memory.
This switch should always be set to the PROTECT side during measurement.
WRITE : Allows writing to internal memory.
This switch should be set to the WRITE side when changing memory contents.
・This switch can be changed during power ON.
Request
・Put the cover on the internal switches/buttons during measurement to prevent a
light from intruding into instrument. Otherwise accurate measurement result
can not be obtained.
Memo
Memo

1. Before Use
17
■LCD
Measurement results are displayed on the LCD as follows.
Ｆ２．０ ＡＢＳ Ｋ００ Ｇ００－０
ｘ＝ ０．１９３０
ｙ＝ ０．４８９９
Ｌ＝ ３．０１６Ｅ＋０１ ｃｄ／ｍ＾２
Absolute value
measurement：ＡＢＳ
/Difference
measurement：ＤＩＦ
Measurement
angle
2.0/1.0/0.2/0.1
Measurement result
Correction factor
00 : No correction factor
01 –10 : Correction factor number
Correction factor group
00_0 : No correction factor group
xx_ｙ: Correction factor group
xx : 01 –10 ｙ: 1 - 5

1. Before Use
18
1.3 Preparation
1.3.1 Connecting the AC Adapter
Be sure to use the supplied AC adapter or a separately sold 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 could cause fire.
Do not plug in or unplug the AC adapter plug with wet hands.
Doing so could cause electric shock.
The procedure for connecting the AC adapter to the instrument is explained below.
1 Make sure the power to the instrument is OFF.
2 Insert the connector on the output side of the AC adapter to the DC input connector of
the instrument.
P r o h i b i t e d
M a n d a t o r y
Mandatory