SeQco Nan Color Difference Meter

Overview

The SeQco Nan Color Difference Meter is a compact, high-precision optical measurement instrument engineered for rapid, repeatable color difference analysis in quality control and R&D environments. It operates on the principle of tristimulus colorimetry, utilizing a calibrated silicon photodiode array and LED-based illumination (D65, A, and CIE standard illuminants) to capture spectral reflectance data across the visible spectrum (380–740 nm). The device calculates color coordinates in CIE L*a*b*, L*C*h°, and ΔE_ab, ΔE_cmc, ΔE₀₀ metrics with industry-standard observer angles (2° and 10° standard observer). Designed for benchtop or portable use, the Nan integrates a fixed 8 mm measuring aperture and 0°/45° geometry—compliant with ISO 7724-1, ASTM E308, and CIE No. 15—to minimize specular influence and ensure consistent inter-instrument agreement. Its solid-state optical path and temperature-stabilized sensor architecture deliver long-term photometric stability, making it suitable for regulated environments where traceability and repeatability are critical.

Key Features

• 0°/45° illumination/viewing geometry per ISO 7724-1 and ASTM E308 for accurate surface color assessment of non-metallic, matte, and textured samples
• Integrated D65, A, and C illuminant simulation with automatic white calibration and drift compensation
• High-resolution 2.8-inch TFT LCD display with intuitive icon-driven interface and real-time ΔE feedback
• Onboard memory for up to 2,000 measurement records, each timestamped and tagged with operator ID and batch metadata
• USB-C and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity for secure data export to SeQco ColorLink™ desktop software or LIMS integration
• Rugged anodized aluminum housing rated IP52 for dust resistance and incidental splash protection
• Compliance-ready audit trail functionality supporting GLP/GMP workflows, including user authentication and change logging

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SeQco Nan accommodates flat, curved, and slightly irregular surfaces—including plastics, paints, textiles, ceramics, and coated metals—provided the sample area exceeds 12 mm in diameter. Its 8 mm aperture ensures reliable measurement of small parts and printed labels without edge interference. The instrument meets essential regulatory requirements for color verification in manufacturing: it supports FDA 21 CFR Part 11-compliant electronic signatures when paired with validated ColorLink™ software; conforms to ISO 9001:2015 calibration traceability protocols via NIST-traceable ceramic tile standards; and satisfies automotive OEM color tolerancing specifications (e.g., GMW14872, Ford CETP). Optional IQ/OQ documentation packages are available for pharmaceutical and medical device clients requiring validation under GAMP 5 guidelines.

Software & Data Management

SeQco ColorLink™ (v4.2+) provides full spectral data visualization, tolerance zone mapping (ellipsoidal or rectangular), and statistical process control (SPC) charting (X̄-R, Cp/Cpk). Raw measurement files (.scd) retain full spectral reflectance curves and environmental metadata (ambient temperature, humidity, battery level). The software enforces role-based access control, automatic backup to network drives, and encrypted export to CSV, PDF, or XML formats compatible with SAP QM and Oracle Quality modules. All data modifications are logged with user ID, timestamp, and reason code—enabling full forensic reconstruction during internal audits or regulatory inspections.

Applications

• Batch-to-batch color consistency verification in paint, ink, and pigment manufacturing
• In-line color release testing for injection-molded plastic components in automotive and consumer electronics
• Quality gate monitoring of textile dye lots against master standards in apparel supply chains
• Stability assessment of UV-curable coatings under accelerated aging protocols
• Color matching support for cosmetic formulation labs using spectral inversion algorithms
• Documentation of color deviations in medical device packaging to satisfy ISO 13485 clause 8.2.5

FAQ

Does the Nan require annual recalibration by an accredited lab?

Yes—SeQco recommends annual recalibration using NIST-traceable standards. Field verification with supplied white and black tiles should be performed before each shift.

Can the Nan measure transparent or translucent films?

No—the 0°/45° geometry is not optimized for transmission measurements. For such applications, SeQco recommends the TC-2000 Transmission Colorimeter.

Is firmware update capability available over-the-air?

Firmware updates require USB-C connection to ColorLink™ software; no OTA capability is implemented to maintain cybersecurity integrity in regulated facilities.

What is the typical measurement repeatability (ΔE_ab) under controlled conditions?

≤ 0.08 ΔE_ab for homogeneous matte surfaces (n ≥ 10, 23°C ± 2°C, 50% RH), as verified per ISO 13655:2017 Annex B.

Does the device support custom tolerance ellipsoids per customer specification?

Yes—ColorLink™ allows definition of multi-axis ΔE₀₀-based tolerances aligned with brand-specific color gamuts or supplier agreements.