X-Rite 301 User manual

X-Rite 301 Operator Manual
i
FCC
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits
are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference
when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if
not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may
cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this
equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in
which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own
expense.
Canada
This Class A digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian
Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe A respecte toutes les exigences du
Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.
NOTE: Shielded interface cables must be used in order to maintain compliance
with the desired FCC and European emission requirements.
For 230V~ replace with 400ma, 5 by 20mm fuse only
For 115V~ replace with 500ma, 5 by 20mm fuse only.
Para 230V~ Reemplazar solamente con el fusible 400ma, dimensión 5mm por
20mm.
Para 115V~ Reemplazar solamente con el fusible 500ma, dimensión 5mm por
20mm.
Per 230V~ Sostituire il fusible solamente con il tipe di 400ma, dimensione 5mm
per 20mm.
Per 115V~ Sostituire il fusible solamente con il tipe di 500ma, dimensione 5mm
per 20mm.
Für 230V~ bitte nur mit einer 400ma Sicherung, Größe 5 mal 20mm, ersetzen!
For 115V~ bitte nur mit einer 500ma Sicherung, Größe 5 mal 20mm, ersetzen!
Pour 230V~ remplaçer seulement par un fusible de 400ma, 5 sur 20mm!
Pour 115V~ remplaçer seulement par un fusible de 500ma, 5 sur 20mm!

X-Rite 301 Operator Manual
ii
Replace with only Same Type Lamp Assembly, X-Rite P/N 301-21.
Ersetzen Sie die Lampenmontage nur mit einer vom gleichen Typ (X-Rite P/N
301-21).
Reemplace la unidad de lampara solamente con una del mismo tipo como la pieza
X-Rite 301-21.
Ne remplacer l’assemblage de lampe qu’avec un assemblage du même type
(X-Rite P/N 301-21).
Sostituire il gruppo di lampada solamente con uno dello stesso tipo che come il
pezzo X-Rite 301-21.
Replace with only Same Type Fluorescent Lamp Assembly, Type F6T5/D.
Ersetzen Sie die Fluoreszenzlampen-Montage nur mit einer vom gleichen Typ
(Typ F6T5/D).
Reemplace la unidad de lampara fluorescente solamente con una del mismo tipo
como la pieza X-Rite F6T5/D.
Ne remplacer l’assemblage de lampe fluorescente qu’avec un assemblage du
même type (type F6T5/D).
Sostituire il gruppo di lampada fluorescente solamente con uno dello stesso tipo
che come il pezzo X-Rite F6T5/D.
Replace with 3/8 Amp-3 AG Fuse Only.
Ersetzen Sie nur mit einer Sicherung von 3/8 Ampere - 3AG.
Reemplace el fusible solamente con el tipo de 3/8 amperios - 3AG.
Ne remplacer qu’avec un fusible de 3/8 ampère - 3 AG.
Sostituire il fusibile solamente con il tipe di 3/8 ampere - 3AG.

X-Rite 301 Operator Manual
iii
CE DECLARATION
Manufacturer's Name: X-Rite, Incorporated
Manufacturer's Address: 3100 44th Street, S.W.
Grandville, Michigan 49418
U.S.A.
Model Name: Densitometer
Model No.: 301
Directive(s) Conformance: EMC 89/336/EEC LVD 73/23/EEC

X-Rite 301 Operator Manual
iv
Relamping Instructions
NOTE: Disconnect Power Before Relamping
Fluorescent Bulbs(s) Replacement
Replace the Fluorescent Bulb(s) as Follows:
1. Remove the four (4) screws on the corners of the light table and remove the
light table.
2. Remove the faulty bulb(s) and replace with type F6T5/D fluorescent bulb(s).
3. Locate the light table and refasten with the four (4) screws.
Anleitung zum Ersetzen der Lampe
N.B. Stromkabel muß dabei ausgezogen werden.
Zum Ersetzen der Fluoreszenz-Leuchtbirne:
Folgen Sie den folgenden Anweisungen:
1. Entfernen Sie die vier (4) Schrauben an den Ecken vom Leuchttisch und
entfernen Sie die Leuchtplatte.
2. Entfernen Sie die kaputten Birnen und ersetzen Sie sie mit Fluoreszenz-
Leuchtbirnen vom Typ F6T5/D.
3. Legen Sie die Leuchtplatte wieder auf den Leuchttisch und befestigen Sie sie
mit den vier (4) Schrauben.
Instrucciones de reemplazar la lampara
AVISO: Interrumpa la fuente de energía antes de continuar
El reemplazo de las bombillas fluorescentes
Siga las instrucciones a continuación para reemplazar las bombillas fluorescentes:
1. Quite los quatro (4) tornillos de los ángulos de la mesa luminosa, luego quite la
mesa luminosa.
2. Reemplace las bombillas defectuosas con bombillas fluorescentes del tipo
F6T5/D.
3. Coloque la mesa luminosa en su sitio y asegúrela apretando con los quatro (4)
tornillos.
Instructions pour remplacer l’ampoule d’éclairage
fluorescent
ATTENTION: Pour commencer, déconnecter le cordon secteur.
Pour remplacer l’ampoule d’éclairage fluorescent
Suivre les instructions suivantes:
1. Enlever les quatre (4) vis dans les coins de la table lumineux, et démonter la
plaque translucide.
2. Enlever l’ampoule d’éclairage cassé et le remplacer avec un ampoule d’éclairage
fluorescent du type F6T5/D.
3. Remplacer la plaque translucide et la retenir avec les quatre (4) vis.
Istruzioni per sostituire la lampada
AVVISO: Interrompere l’energia prima di continuare
La sostituzione delle lampade fluorescenti
Eseguire l’istruzioni seguenti per sostituire le lampade fluorescenti:
1. Togliere le quattro (4) viti dei angoli del tavolo luminoso, quindi togliere il
tavolo luminoso.
2. Sostituire le lampade difettose con lampade fluorescenti del tipo F6T5/D.
3. Collocare il tavolo luminoso en suo posto y assicurarlo con le quattro (4) viti.

X-Rite 301 Operator Manual
v
Dear Customer:
Congratulations! We at X-Rite, Incorporated are proud to present you with
your X-Rite 301 Black and White Transmission Densitometer. Your 301 is a
rugged and reliable instrument whose performance and design exhibit the
qualities of a finely engineered laboratory instrument.
To fully appreciate and protect your investment, we suggest that you take
several minutes to read this manual. As always, X-Rite stands behind your 301
Instrument with a full one-year limited warranty and a dedicated service
organization. If the need arises, please do not hesitate to call on us.
Thank you for your trust and confidence.
X-Rite, Incorporated

X-Rite 301 Operator Manual
vi
CUSTOMER INFORMATION
These provisions are intended to state all of the rights and responsibilities
between X-Rite, Incorporated and customer. They take the place of and
supersede all warranties, express or implied, and whether of
merchantability, fitness, or otherwise. The remedies contained in this
installation and operation manual are exclusive. Customer and X-Rite,
Incorporated waive all other remedies, including but limited to,
consequential damages.
Limited Warranty
X-Rite, Incorporated warrants each instrument manufactured by them to
be free of defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 12 months.
THERE ARE NO WARRANTIES OF MECHANTABILITY OR
FITNESS. THIS WARRANTY OBLIGATION IS LIMITED TO
SERVICING THE UNIT RETURNED TO THE FACTORY FOR THAT
PURPOSE AND EXCLUDES THE TUNGSTEN-HALOGEN LAMPS.
The instrument shall be returned with transportation charges prepaid. If
the fault has been caused by misuse or abnormal conditions of operation,
repair will be billed at a nominal cost. If requested, an estimate will be
submitted before non warranty work is started.
An Instrument Registration Card is enclosed with each instrument.
The purchaser should fill in the card completely and return it to X-Rite
postmarked no later than 10 days form the date of receipt. This card
registers your instrument with us for warranty coverage. Once your
instrument is registered we are able to maintain a file to help expedite
service in case it is needed. Always include serial number and place of
purchase in any correspondence concerning your instrument. The serial
number is located at the rear of the instrument.
X-Rite, Incorporated offers a repair program for instruments out of
warranty. For more information, contact X-Rite Instrument Services
Department.
This agreement shall be interpreted in accordance with the laws of the
State of Michigan and jurisdiction and venue shall lie within the courts of
Michigan as selected by X-Rite, Incorporated.

X-Rite 301 Operator Manual
vii
Proprietary Notice
The information contained in this manual is derived from patent and
proprietary data from X-Rite, Incorporated. This manual has been
prepared solely for the purpose of assisting operation and maintenance
personnel in their use of the X-Rite 301 Instrument.
The contents of this manual are the property of X-Rite, Incorporated and
are copyrighted. Any reproduction in whole or part is strictly prohibited.
Publication of this information does not imply any rights to reproduce it or
use it for any purpose other than installing, operating, or maintaining the
equipment described herein.
This instrument is covered by the following U.S. and foreign patents:
U.S. Patent #4,080,075 and other patents pending.
Copyright ©1984, 1996, 1999 by X-Rite, Incorporated.
“ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.”

X-Rite 301 Operator Manual
viii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Customer Information.................................................................vi
Relamping Instructions...............................................................iv
Table of Contents.......................................................................viii
List of Figures ............................................................................viii
Introduction ..................................................................................1
Specifications ..........................................................................1
Unpacking................................................................................3
Operating Instructions.................................................................2
Power Application...................................................................2
Aperture Replacement............................................................. 3
Nulling (Zeroing) Procedure....................................................3
Absolute Density Measurement...............................................4
Density Comparison Measurement..........................................4
Calibration ....................................................................................5
Calibration Frequency .............................................................5
Calibration Procedure..............................................................5
Maintenance..................................................................................7
Cleaning...................................................................................7
Fluorescent Bulb Replacement................................................8
Reading Lamp Replacement.................................................... 9
Fuse Replacement..................................................................10
Factory Repair....................................................................... 11
Troubleshooting.......................................................................... 12
Output Connection (model 301RS) ........................................... 14
RS-232 Connection................................................................14
Data Instruction Format......................................................... 15
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1. Applying Power.............................................................2
Figure 2. Aperture Removal .........................................................3
Figure 3. Calibration.....................................................................6
Figure 4. Calibration Step Tablet..................................................6
Figure 5. Cleaning Instrument Optics...........................................7
Figure 6. Fluorescent Lamp Access.............................................. 8
Figure 7. Lamp PC Board Access.................................................9
Figure 8. Densitometer PC Board Access...................................10
Figure 9. Transmit Function Switch Access ...............................13

1
INTRODUCTION
The X-Rite 301 Black and White Densitometer is a highly accurate and
reliable instrument designed for ease of operation. This unit features push
button nulling and will compute density comparisons and subtractions.
Voltage and temperature compensation provides drift-free operation.
SPECIFICATIONS
Size:.......................................... 10.25W x 15L x 5.25H
Weight: ..................................... 8.5lbs.
Range:....................................... 0 to 5.0D w/2mm and 3mm apertures
.......................................... 0 to 4.0D with 1mm aperture
Accuracy:.................................. ±0.02D
.......................................... ±1.5%D (1mm aperture, 3.5D to 4.0D)
Repeatability:............................ ±0.01D
Operating Temp. Range:........... +10°to +40°C (+50° to 104°F)
Operating Relative Humidity:... ≤76%
Voltage Range: ......................... 301 (Domestic) 100Vac to 130Vac, 60Hz
301X (Export) 200Vac to 240Vac, 50Hz
Power Requirement: ................. 80VA maximum
Warm-up Time:......................... 60 seconds
Scale Factor Stability:............... ±1.0% per six months
Null Drift:................................. ±0.03D max., ±0.01D typical
Safety........................................ UL 3101-01
.......................................... C22.2, No. 1010-1-92
Altitude..................................... 2000m
IEC 664..................................... Pollution Degree 2
Installation Type....................... Category 2
Usage........................................ Indoor only
FCC .......................................... Part 15, Class A, Digital Device
Industry Canada........................ ICES-003 Issue 2, Revision 1
International.............................. EN50081-1:1992
.......................................... Class B Generic Emmision Standard
.......................................... EN50082-1:1992
.......................................... Generic Immunity Standard
NOTE: Due to heat generated by the fluorescent lamps, accuracy
to the 301 Densitometer is improved with the lamps off.

Operating Instructions
2
UNPACKING
Remove the instrument from shipping carton. Inspect for possible damage.
If any damage is noted, contact the transportation company immediately.
Do nothing more until the carrier’s agent has inspected the damage.
If damage is not evident, make sure the following items are included.
•X-Rite 301 Operation Manual (with Warranty Card)
•1mm, 2mm and 3mm apertures (inside back cover of manual)
•Standard Reference Step Tablet (inside front cover of manual)
•301(X) Instrument
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Operation of the X-Rite 301 is very simple. Procedures of the various
modes of operation are provided in the following paragraphs. When
operating the instrument, use these recommended common sense
suggestions to protect yourself and your instrument:
•Avoid dangerous environments (e.g., don’t use instrument in damp,
wet areas)
•Use proper electrical connections.
•Ensure electric cord does not interfere with work.
•Disconnect power before servicing.
POWER APPLICATION
The 301(X) is designed to operate from a standard grounded line source.
Always plug the instrument into a 3-wire receptacle.
1. Plug line cord into a 3-wire grounded outlet.
2. Turn on power switch.

Operating Instructions
3
APERTURE REPLACEMENT
Remove the installed aperture by lifting the edge upward. Install a new or
different aperture by inserting the aperture into the light source cavity,
making sure that the aperture is fully seated and pressed flush against the
cavity.
Figure 2. Aperture Removal
NULLING (ZEROING) PROCEDURE
Due to the electronic memory loss caused by power removal, null must be
established each time power to the instrument is removed. Null remains
very stable (±0.01D) as long as power remains on.
Null the instrument as follows:
1. Remove film from reading area.
2. Lower the reading head by pressing the read button until it deflects
totally and actuates the switch.
3. Momentarily push the null button.
4. Remove pressure on the read button to release the reading head.
NOTE: The read button is a read-hold activator. Compress the
button with only as much pressure as necessary for total
deflection.
Read Button

Operating Instructions
4
ABSOLUTE DENSITY MEASUREMENT
Measure absolute density as follows:
1. Null the instrument as previously described in Nulling (Zeroing)
Procedure.
2. Center the film area directly over the bright green light spot under the
reading head.
3. Lower the reading head by pressing the read button until it totally
deflects and actuates the switch.
4. Allow the instrument reading to settle to a stable number.
5. Remove pressure on the read button to release the reading head.
NOTE: Always measure density with the film emulsion side up.
When measuring density values above 2.50D, ensure that
reading head light seal is completely on surface of the film
being measured.
DENSITY COMPARISON MEASUREMENT
Compare density readings as follows:
1. Place reference film over aperture. Press read button and momentarily
press the null button.
2. Place the film to be compared over the aperture and measure density.
•This measurement is the difference between the reference film
density and the compared film density.
•A negative (–) display indicates a lower compared film density
than the reference film.
NOTE: When referencing with densities greater than 3.00D,
press the null button longer to allow the instrument
electronics to fully stabilize.

5
CALIBRATION
Calibration of this instrument should remain stable over a long period of
time and over an extended range of voltage and temperature. However, a
calibrated step tablet is provided (inside front cover) to verify the
instrument calibration. Handle the step tablet with care to prevent
accumulation of dirt and fingerprints on the surface.
CALIBRATION FREQUENCY
Under normal operating conditions, the instrument calibration should be
verified once a week by the following the Calibration Procedure.
CALIBRATION PROCEDURE
See illustrations on the following page for calibration adjustment locations
and reference.
To verify calibration:
1. Null the instrument as described in Nulling (Zeroing) Procedure page
1. Center the “CAL” portion of step tablet under read head.
2. Press read button to measure step tablet.
3. Hold read button down until a stable reading is attained.
•The “CAL” reading should be ±0.02D of the “CAL” value marked
on the step tablet.
If “CAL” reading is NOT within tolerance, calibrate instrument.
To calibrate instrument:
1. Center the “CAL” portion of step tablet under the read head .
2. Press and hold read button to measure the step tablet.
3. Use a small screwdriver or adjustment tool into hole on the right side
of instrument, to engage the calibration adjustment (potentiometer).
4. With read button still depressed, adjust as necessary to within ±0.02D
of the “CAL” value marked on the calibrated step tablet.
•Rotate counterclockwise to increase value, clockwise to decrease.
5. Remove step tablet and press read button to check null, re-null the
instrument as necessary.
6. Repeat until the calibration value and null are within tolerance.
NOTE: Always return the step tablet to the plastic bag on inside
front cover for protection.

Calibration
6
Figure 3. Calibration
Figure 4. Calibration Step Tablet
“CAL” portion of step tablet
centered on Target Window
Calibration Adjustment
Read Button
Calibration Point
CAL Density
Value

7
MAINTENANCE
The 301 Densitometer is completely covered by a one (1) year warranty
and should be referred to the factory or authorized service center for
repairs within the warranty period. Attempts to make repairs within the
warranty period may void the warranty. If repairs are needed after the
warranty period, only qualified technicians should perform such repairs.
Refer to the exploded view illustration of the 301 on page 16.
WARNING: DISCONNECT POWER BEFORE PERFORMING
ANY MAINTENANCE.
CLEANING
General cleaning of the 301 Densitometer should be done with mild a soap
solution.
CAUTION: Do not use alcohol based solutions to clean light
table.
Clean the instrument optics (apertures and read head opal glass) with a
cotton swab moistened with alcohol. Remove residue and lint with lens
paper. See Figure 5.
CAUTION: To prevent contamination of optics, always cover
the reading area when cleaning the opal glass.
Figure 5. Cleaning Instrument Optics
Cover read area
and aperture
Read Button
Cotton Swab

Maintenance
8
FLUORESCENT BULB REPLACEMENT
Replace fluorescent bulbs as follows:
1. Remove four (4) screws securing light table to the unit chassis.
2. Remove light table.
3. Remove the faulty bulb(s) and replace with new, type F6T5/D
fluorescent bulb(s).
4. Reinstall light table and secure to unit chassis with four (4) screws.
Figure 6. Fluorescent Bulb Access
Screws Lamp

Maintenance
9
READING LAMP REPLACEMENT (P/N 301-21)
Replace the reading area lamp as follows:
1. Remove the unit bottom cover by removing the four (4) screws located
in the rubber feet.
2. Remove the four (4) screws securing the Lamp P.C. board to the arm
assembly at bottom of chassis.
3. Disconnect lamp connector and remove faulty Lamp P.C. board.
NOTE: Ensure lamp P.C. board bulb is clean. Use alcohol on a
lint free cloth or cotton swab to remove smudges.
CAUTION: The bulb on Lamp P.C. board has been prealigned
for optimum optical performance. Use care not to
bend or reposition the bulb when cleaning or
installing.
4 Connect the lamp connector to new Lamp P.C. board.
5. Secure Lamp P.C. board to arm assembly with four (4) screws.
6. Reinstall bottom cover and secure with four (4) screws.
Figure 7. Lamp PC Board Access
Screws
Screws
Lamp PC
Board Assy
Lamp Connector

Maintenance
10
FUSE REPLACEMENT
NOTE:Your 115VAC instrument may have a “twist-off” type fuse
carrier not shown below. If this is the case, replace fuse
with a 500ma, ¼” x 1-¼” type.
A spare fuse is located in the fuse carrier if required.
To replace fuse:
1. Turn power off (O) and remove detachable line cord.
2. Insert small flat-blade screwdriver into left edge of fuse carrier and pry
out.
3. Remove blown fuse from carrier clip and discard.
4. Remove spare fuse from carrier compartment and place in fuse clip.
5. Reinsert fuse carrier into fuse cavity. Make sure carrier is firmly
seated.
6. Reinstall detachable line cord.
Flat-blade Screwdriver
Power Switch
Fuse Carrier

Maintenance
11
FACTORY REPAIR
X-Rite recognizes the need to provide complete technical repair service to
customers. X-Rite provides repair of any 301 submitted past warranty. The
customer shall pay shipping costs and the instrument shall be submitted in
its original shipping carton as a complete unaltered unit.
Spare Fuse
Fuse Location
Fuse Carrier