X-Rite Ci60 Portable Spectrophotometer
| Brand | X-Rite |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | Ci60 |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
Overview
The X-Rite Ci60 Portable Spectrophotometer is a high-precision, field-deployable spectrophotometric color measurement instrument engineered for industrial color quality control across manufacturing, R&D, and supply chain environments. It operates on the principle of diffuse d/8° geometry with integrated sphere illumination and spectral analysis across the visible range (400–700 nm) using a silicon photodiode array detector. The device employs a tungsten-halogen lamp as its stable broadband light source, ensuring consistent spectral output for repeatable CIE L*a*b*, L*C*h, and ΔE*ab calculations under standardized illuminants (D65, A, F2, etc.). Designed to meet the demands of ISO 13655:2017 (M0, M1, M2, M3 measurement modes), the Ci60 supports both specular component included (SCI) and excluded (SCE) configurations—critical for evaluating textured, glossy, or coated surfaces where surface reflectance characteristics significantly influence perceived color. Its 8 mm measurement aperture and 14 mm targeting window enable precise localization on heterogeneous or curved substrates while minimizing edge effects.
Key Features
- Optical configuration: d/8° integrating sphere with selectable SCI/SCE measurement modes
- Measurement aperture: 8 mm; target viewing area: 14 mm
- Illuminant options: D65, A, C, F2, F7, F11 per CIE and ISO standards
- Instrument inter-instrument agreement: ≤ 0.40 ΔE*ab (average), ≤ 0.60 ΔE*ab (maximum) against 12 BCRA Series II tiles (SCI mode)
- Short-term repeatability: ≤ 0.10 ΔE*ab (on white ceramic tile, n = 10 measurements)
- Integrated tungsten-halogen lamp with thermal stabilization for spectral consistency
- Onboard color difference evaluation (ΔE*ab, ΔE00), opacity, strength, and colorant matching
- Robust magnesium alloy housing rated IP54 for dust and splash resistance
- Battery-powered operation (rechargeable Li-ion) with dual-dock charging station support
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Ci60 accommodates a broad spectrum of non-fluorescent, opaque, and semi-opaque materials—including painted metal, injection-molded plastics, textiles, leather, paper, and coated packaging—without requiring sample preparation. Its fixed-focus optical path and spring-loaded measurement head ensure consistent pressure and distance control, essential for minimizing contact-induced variability on soft or compressible substrates. The instrument complies with ASTM E308 (computing tristimulus values from spectral data), ISO/CIE 11664-4 (CIE colorimetric observers), and ISO 17972-1 (color communication in digital workflows). While not FDA 21 CFR Part 11–certified out-of-the-box, audit-trail-capable software integration (via X-Rite Color iMatch or ColorCert) enables deployment in GLP/GMP-regulated environments when configured with appropriate user access controls and electronic signature protocols.
Software & Data Management
The Ci60 interfaces seamlessly with X-Rite’s industry-standard software suite, including Color iQC (for pass/fail QC reporting), Color iMatch (for formulation and recipe management), and ColorCert (for enterprise-level color compliance tracking). All measurements are timestamped, geotagged (when paired with compatible mobile devices), and exportable in CSV, XML, or CxF/X3 format for traceability. Data synchronization supports secure cloud-based repositories compliant with ISO/IEC 27001 information security requirements. Firmware updates are delivered via X-Rite’s Device Manager application, ensuring long-term compatibility with evolving color science standards and regulatory expectations.
Applications
- Automotive OEM and Tier-1 suppliers: In-line paint booth verification and trim component color validation
- Plastics processors: Batch-to-batch consistency monitoring for extruded profiles and molded parts
- Textile mills and garment manufacturers: Shade matching across dye lots and fabric types (woven, knitted, nonwoven)
- Printing and packaging converters: Spot color verification against brand guidelines and ISO 12647-2 process standards
- Consumer electronics: Anodized aluminum, PVD-coated housings, and display bezel color alignment
- Paint and coatings labs: Quick qualification of incoming raw materials and finished product release testing
FAQ
Does the Ci60 support measurement of fluorescent or optically brightened samples?
No—the Ci60 does not include UV calibration or adjustable UV content control; it is optimized for non-fluorescent materials. For fluorescent substrate analysis, X-Rite recommends the Ci7x series with UV-adjustable illumination.
Can Ci60 data be imported into legacy SP60-based workflows?
Yes—Ci60 instruments maintain full spectral data backward compatibility with SP60 systems via X-Rite’s common .ciex format and shared color libraries in Color iQC and Color iMatch.
Is the Ci60 suitable for use in cleanroom environments?
While the unit meets IP54 ingress protection, it is not classified for ISO Class 5 or higher cleanrooms due to lack of static-dissipative housing or HEPA-filtered optics; however, it may be deployed in controlled ambient production areas with proper handling protocols.
What calibration standards are supplied with the instrument?
Each Ci60 ships with certified black trap, white ceramic, and green calibration tiles traceable to NIST standards, along with full documentation of certificate numbers and calibration dates.
How frequently should instrument calibration be verified?
X-Rite recommends daily verification using the included calibration standards prior to critical measurements; full recalibration by an authorized service center is advised every 12 months or after 10,000 measurements, whichever occurs first.
