Hello,

How often should a colorimeter be calibrated or is it necessary if you have a spectrophotometer? I've read some varying opinions on this so I thought I'd ask here.

https://lightillusion.com/probe_matching.html
A spectro is really needed.
Without a Spectro a Colourimeter cannot be 'calibrated'.
And if you use an i1D3 the Correlation Files are really not that accurate, as shown on the i1D3 page.
https://lightillusion.com/i1d3_manual.html

Steve

Thanks Steve. What I'm referring to, is the recertification/"calibration" some manufacturers offer for their colorimeters, Colorimetry Research for an example. I guess this is then not quite the same as what's done to spectros when they are recertified?

No - not the same.
That just certifies the the Colourimeter is operating within defined parameters.
It does not make it 'accurate' to any given display technology.

Steve

Oh got it. Do you have any idea how often calibrators recertify their colorimeters or how often it should be done?

If you are using a Spectro it's not really relevant.
But all this is only valid with high-end probes.
No low-end probes can be manufacturer corrected - just checked they are still within tolerance.

Steve

Alright, thanks!

Headlong

Hi-end colorimeters have the capability for recalibration (Klein/Colorimetry Research/Minolta, etc.), not the X-Rite/Calibrate or the branded OEM from CalMAN (C6HDR2000/C6HDR500, etc.).

https://lightillusion.com/forums/msg.php?id=4963

ConnecTED
Hi TED and thanks. I have a CR-100 and was wondering if I should recalibrate/recertify it at some point. Judging from what Steve said, there's no need if I have a spectro.

You would want to have the Spectro recalibrated though.

Steve

Steve
Yeah for sure, about once a year right?

I'd say every 2ish years, depending on use and storage.

Steve