Quick Tips: The Best Conditions for Accurate Color Data

Don’t have much time, but want to learn about color management best practices? We created this series so you can refresh your color knowledge or learn something new in just a minute or so. 

Environmental factors affect the accuracy of spectrophotometers. While it’s difficult to maintain a consistent environment in the field, benchtop models give you greater control over color measurement conditions. Here are six things you should know about environmental conditions and accurate color data.

1. Store and use your spectrophotometer between 21 and 25 degrees centigrade

2. Keep the instrument out of sunlight, since heat from sunlight will affect it even in a temperature-controlled room

3. Allow continuous power to the instrument if possible, to eliminate the thermal drift that can occur during warm-up

4. Maintain non-condensing, stable humidity of 20-85 percent

5. Ensure the air remains uncontaminated by chemical vapors including smoke

6. The color properties of nearly all pigments and dyes change with temperature fluctuations (thermochromism). This means that if there’s been a change in temperature, you should re-measure standards before measuring production samples.

Want to improve your color management knowledge and meet our color experts in person? Consider attending an upcoming seminar on the essentials of color management.