HunterLab UltraScan VIS Benchtop Colorimeter
| Origin | USA |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | UltraScan VIS |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
Overview
The HunterLab UltraScan VIS is a high-precision benchtop colorimeter engineered for rigorous color measurement across the full CIE-standard visible spectrum (360–780 nm). It operates on the fundamental principles of spectrophotometric colorimetry, utilizing dual-beam diode-array optics with 10 nm effective bandwidth to capture spectral reflectance and transmittance data at 10 nm intervals. Its d/8° integrating sphere geometry—automatically configurable for specular component included (SCI) or excluded (SCE)—ensures compliance with ASTM D2244, ISO 7724, CIE Publication No. 15, DIN 5033, and JIS Z 8722 for reflectance measurements. For transmittance, it supports both directional (d/0°) and total (d/8°) modes, enabling accurate quantification of color, haze, and turbidity in transparent and translucent materials—including those exhibiting fluorescence or optical diffusion. The instrument employs a long-life pulsed xenon lamp calibrated to simulate the CIE standard illuminant D65, delivering stable spectral output without thermal loading or photodegradation of light-sensitive samples.
Key Features
- d/8° integrating sphere with automated SCI/SCE mode switching via software control
- Full-spectrum measurement from 360 nm to 780 nm; spectral data reported at 10 nm intervals
- High-stability pulsed xenon illumination with D65 spectral simulation and integrated UV adjustment
- Dual-diode-array optical system optimized for low-noise detection of high-chroma and near-black samples
- Two selectable measurement apertures: Large Area View (LAV, 19 mm optical diameter) and Small Area View (SAV, 6.3 mm optical diameter), with automatic lens positioning and aperture validation
- Ergonomic sample handling: spring-loaded reflectance sample clamp with 180° rotation, partial/full extension, and dual quick-release buttons
- Extra-large transmittance compartment (three-sided access, up to 80 mm path length accommodated) supporting films, sheets, cuvettes, and irregular geometries
- Front-panel macro button and status LEDs for intuitive operation and real-time mode confirmation
- Standard USB 2.0 and RS-232C interfaces for integration into laboratory networks and LIMS environments
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The UltraScan VIS accommodates diverse physical forms—including solids, liquids, powders, granules, pastes, fibers, lenses, bottles, and thin films—via purpose-engineered accessories: fiber clamps, lens holders, cuvette racks, PET preform fixtures, yarn tensioners, transmission clips, and diffuse reflectance stands. Its optical design inherently corrects for scattering artifacts caused by turbidity, haze, or surface texture, making it suitable for pharmaceutical solutions (USP turbidity), food emulsions, polymer pellets, cosmetic gels, and coated substrates. All measurements adhere to GLP-aligned traceability protocols; each unit ships with NIST-traceable calibration tiles and wavelength verification filters. Instrument-to-instrument agreement meets HunterLab’s ±0.08 ΔE*ab (CRF) specification under controlled conditions—enabling multi-site color consistency without requalification.
Software & Data Management
Controlled via EasyMatch QC software (v5.x or later), the UltraScan VIS supports audit-trail-enabled workflows compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements—including electronic signatures, user-level permissions, and immutable measurement history. Spectral data export formats include CSV, XML, and CIE .cie files; color difference calculations support CIEDE2000, CMC(l:c), and BFD(2:1) equations. Batch reporting, SPC charting, tolerance mapping, and pass/fail logic are fully programmable. Optional ConnectIQ™ enables direct integration with enterprise MES/QMS platforms and supports scheduled calibration reminders, firmware update notifications, and remote diagnostics—all without exposing raw instrument firmware to external networks.
Applications
- Pharmaceutical: Quantification of tablet coating uniformity, solution color (USP , ), and excipient batch-to-batch consistency
- Food & Beverage: Objective assessment of juice clarity, dairy product whiteness, sauce hue stability, and packaging film yellowness index
- Plastics & Polymers: Monitoring thermal degradation (YI), pigment dispersion homogeneity, and masterbatch lot acceptance
- Paints & Coatings: Spectral matching of metallic and pearlescent finishes under multiple illuminants (D65, A, F2)
- Textiles & Fibers: Measurement of dyed yarns, nonwovens, and technical fabrics under controlled tension and geometry
- Academic Research: Development of color prediction models, aging studies, and multispectral correlation analysis
FAQ
Does the UltraScan VIS comply with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 for regulated environments?
Yes—the instrument and EasyMatch QC software support full Part 11 compliance when configured with audit trail logging, electronic signatures, and role-based access control.
Can it measure fluorescent samples containing optical brightening agents (OBAs)?
Yes—integrated UV adjustment allows automatic compensation using certified fluorescent standards and removable UV cutoff filters.
What is the typical instrument-to-instrument agreement for color measurements?
Under ISO 13655-compliant conditions, inter-instrument agreement is ≤ ±0.08 ΔE*ab for CRF (Color Reference Standard) samples.
Is routine recalibration required between daily measurements?
No—built-in tile monitoring and drift-compensation algorithms maintain stability; however, daily zero and white calibration is recommended per ISO 9001 and internal SOPs.
Can the UltraScan VIS be integrated into an automated production line?
Yes—via RS-232C or USB HID emulation, it accepts ASCII command sets for OEM-triggered measurements and returns structured spectral or colorimetric data in real time.
