Color spectrophotometers are precise tools that measure color throughout production. Other types of spectrophotometers can also measure materials such as liquid, plastics, metals and more. Color quality checks occur in just about every industry for reasons such as branding and organization.

What Kinds of Spectrophotometers Exist?

Spectrophotometers come in multiple sizes to fit different operations. Portable spectrophotometers fit in your hand for mobile checkpoints around the lab. Benchtop spectrophotometers are sturdy fixtures that provide accurate color readings.

Finding a suitable device depends on your needs. The advantages of portable and benchtop spectrophotometers vary depending on what project you tackle. Each type has unique perks that it lends to perfecting color printing and distribution.

What Do Benchtop Spectrophotometers Measure?

A benchtop spectrophotometer can detect a larger range of variables that portable versions might not be able to. During goods production, it is necessary to measure color to adhere to brand and industry requirements. Benchtop spectrophotometers help workers produce the right color.
Benchtop spectrophotometers measure factors such as:

  • Transmission: Benchtop spectrophotometers can check for transmission measurements through liquids, which is something portable versions might not.
  • Defects: Benchtop spectrophotometers have a larger illumination spot, so they can average out imperfections such as lint or scratches that would skew your results.
  • Backing: Benchtop spectrophotometers have a built-in backing to prevent mistakes. Unless your object is completely opaque, you need a backing to make sure other items don’t shine through.
  • Hazes: Benchtop spectrophotometers can detect hazes in plastics and other materials.
  • UV calibration: Benchtop spectrophotometers employ UV light calibration to offer consistency when working with optical brighteners.

Whereas portable spectrophotometers are adaptable in certain instances, these measurements come standard with benchtop spectrophotometers.

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Pros and Cons of Benchtop Color Spectrophotometers

Benchtop spectrophotometers provide crisp results for color testing and checking. While each model is slightly different, they are reliable pieces of equipment.
Pros of a benchtop spectrophotometer include:

  • Consistency: Benchtop spectrophotometers provide consistent results for each test. Low variation shows they accurately scan and deliver information.
  • Scope: Benchtop spectrophotometers can assess more color aspects with fewer pieces of equipment.
  • Versatility: Benchtop spectrophotometers work with a range of materials, including plastics, metals and liquids. Portable versions may not offer the same versatility.

There are some reasons why you might not choose a benchtop spectrophotometer for your organization. Depending on your space and needs, you may opt for another type.

Cons of a benchtop spectrophotometer are:

  • Mobility: Benchtop spectrophotometers usually need to stay in one place, and they aren’t convenient to take around the lab.
  • Size: Benchtop spectrophotometers take up more room than portable options.

Ultimately, a benchtop spectrophotometer is a staple piece for any color-testing lab. It’s a reliable element of larger laboratories and works well with portable devices.

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Find Color Spectrophotometers From HunterLab

HunterLab has over 65 years of experience in creating accurate color readings. Our color spectrophotometers help your business produce consistent colors for branding and organization.

Our color spectrophotometers offer consistent, clear results for color testing. Contact us today to learn about our products and services.