WHITEPAPER: WHAT IS A SPECTRODENSITOMETER?

Don’t miss Techkon’s whitepaper entitled ‘What is a SpectroDensitometer‘ written by Bruce Leigh Myers, Ph.D. 

Download this carefully crafted technical resource to learn more about the benefits of using a SpectroDensitometer. 

What is a spectrodensitometer? 

A spectrodensitometer is an instrument that can calculate density readings from spectral values. It combines features of both a densitometer and a spectrophotometer, making it more versatile and insightful for printers and color professionals. 

What is the difference between a densitometer and a spectrodensitometer? 

Densitometers measure reflected light while also monitoring colorant on a substrate. While traditional densitometers still have their place in process color printing operations, it is important to remember that they are best utilized for process control of CMYK printing. Spectrodensitometers may be more accurate than the standard densitometer.  

While reliable, densitometers are limited to density readings. Spectrodensitometers go further by using spectral values to deliver greater accuracy—especially important when managing brand colors or expanded gamut printing. 

What is the benefit of using a spectrodensitometer? 

The enhanced capabilities possible with the spectrodensitometer are critical for those printing brand colors, expanded gamut, or who desire more advanced controls. These instruments provide critical colorimetric data needed for maintaining high-quality output, supporting compliance with standards like ISO and G7.  

The increased importance for colorimetric information achieved beyond that of a colorimeter is also noteworthy: such data are required for many industry standardization initiatives and are invaluable for other often overlooked applications such as incoming inspection of paper and ink. 

What is the difference between a spectrophotometer and a spectrodensitometer? 

A spectrophotometer measures how light interacts with a sample to determine color. A spectrodensitometer includes that capability but also delivers density calculations, making it more practical for print production environments.  

For more information about the difference between a spectrophotometer and a spectrodensitometers, download “What is a Spectrodensitometer?”