The geometry of an instrument is the relative position of the light source, sample plane and detector, and is one of the 6 key parameters that define a color measurement. There are two general categories of instrument geometries – directional 45°/0°(or 45°/0°) and diffuse d/8° sphere.

To tell the difference between directional and diffuse instrument geometries, look in the port. If the inside is black, when the lights are on, the instrument has a CIE directional 45°/0°(or 45°/0°) geometry. If the inside is white, then it is a CIE diffuse  d/8° sphere geometry instrument.

While both geometries can be used for color measurement, it is best to measure some samples with a directional 45°/0° geometry instrument and others with diffuse d/8° sphere. More information in our Application Notes at AN 1033.00 Color versus Appearance.

Ken Phillips

Mr. Philips has spent the last 30 years in product development and management, technical sales, marketing, and business development in several industries. Today, he is the global market development manager for HunterLab, focused on understanding customer needs, providing appropriate solutions and education, and helping to solve customer color challenges across these industries and cultures.