Konica Minolta CR-400 Review: Portable Color Measurement
Updated: 7 days ago
The Konica Minolta CR-400 is a handheld tristimulus colorimeter for object-color evaluation. Its defined measurement area supports localized color comparisons rather than a general-purpose inspection image or a full spectral scan. Price: Request a quote.
Quick Verdict
CR-400 merits evaluation when a portable object-color measurement can support the quality decision and the sample fills its defined area consistently. The useful result is a reproducible comparison with the intended reference and tolerance. Portability is valuable when it does not introduce uncontrolled placement or sample-preparation variation.
Documented Product Scope
Item | Configuration |
Instrument | Portable chroma meter / colorimeter |
Measurement area | 8 mm diameter |
Illumination area | 11 mm diameter |
Geometry | Diffuse illumination, 0° viewing; specular component included |
Light source | Pulsed xenon |
Data workflow | Optional processor or compatible SpectraMagic NX2 scope |
Price | Request a quote |
Sample Area and Placement
Check whether the sample region covers the illuminated and measured areas. A reading from a patterned part can combine several colors or finishes, so identify the location that should govern the decision. If the task needs spatial variation or a small local blemish, decide whether repeated point readings or another imaging method is more suitable.
Support the object so the instrument can be placed repeatably without changing the surface. For powders, pastes or other loose materials, use the appropriate holder and preparation method rather than treating every sample as a flat solid. Repeat placement across normal operators and evaluate how much variation enters through the handling process.
Color Method and Reference
Specify the color space, illuminant and color-difference formula that the quality process requires. A displayed difference is meaningful only when the reference and sample use the intended matching method. Do not compare readings from different geometries or recipes as though a common numerical label made them interchangeable.
The instrument measures colorimetric quantities rather than supplying the full spectral information of a spectrophotometer. If the acceptance method needs spectral data or evaluation beyond this instrument’s supported conditions, compare another measurement technology. The buying decision should follow the information needed for the actual material and process.
Calibration and Measurement Consistency
Use the exact instrument’s calibration procedure and reference accessories. Protect and clean reference surfaces according to the supplier instructions, then define how a failed calibration or suspect reading is handled. A successful calibration does not validate an incorrectly prepared sample or an unintended measurement location.
Repeatability, reference accuracy and agreement between instruments describe different conditions. The manufacturer publishes defined test conditions for its numerical performance. A result on a white calibration plate should not become an unconditional error bound on every textured, curved or heterogeneous sample. Demonstrate the required decision with real normal and borderline material.
Data Handling and Operator Workflow
The manufacturer describes an optional data processor and compatible color-analysis software. Confirm which hardware and software are included and how readings will be stored. A local display can support a quick decision, while a traceable production process may need a record associated with each sample, location, recipe and instrument.
Verify the transfer or export workflow and its recovery behavior. If a measurement is repeated, establish which reading becomes the accepted record and why. A communication connection does not by itself prevent a result from being attached to the wrong object. Store targets and tolerances through a controlled process so operators use the intended recipe.
Applications and Acceptance Trial
Object-color checks for controlled material and surface samples can merit evaluation. Use actual good, faulty and near-limit samples. Include normal preparation, texture and placement variation, then determine whether the resulting reading supports the quality requirement. Avoid choosing thresholds from a small convenient sample set that omits confusing normal cases.
Measure the complete working sequence, including calibration where required, preparation, placement, acquisition and recording. The manufacturer lists different acquisition and minimum-interval figures, so neither should be treated as an operator’s complete cycle. Repeat the process with normal users and verify both the decision and the result record.
Comparison and Purchasing Scope
Compare CR-400 with the larger-area CR-410 or a spectrophotometer using the same sample and decision requirement. A larger area can average another portion of a heterogeneous object; spectral measurement provides another information scope. Choose the method that addresses the required color question rather than assuming a more elaborate instrument is always preferable.
Price: Request a quote. Include the measuring head, required holders and references, connection or optional processor, software, calibration service and training. Compare proposals that implement the same measurement method and recordkeeping requirement. Confirm current support and replacement accessories before purchase.
Who Should Evaluate the CR-400?
Shortlist it when a localized portable color comparison fits the material and the team can maintain a reproducible sample method. A useful demonstration shows repeated positioning, appropriate calibration and consistent decisions near the real tolerance boundary. Settle the complete data and service workflow with the supplier.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Defined portable object-color measurement arrangement.
Localized aperture supports a specified sampling method.
Optional processing and analysis can support the data workflow.
Cons
Point colorimetry does not supply a general inspection image or full spectrum.
Sample preparation and placement affect the result.
Calibration, data handling and accessories need complete specification.
CR-400 FAQ
Is CR-400 a general camera?
No. It is a portable object-color colorimeter.
What area is specified?
An 8 mm measurement area within an 11 mm illumination area.
Does it supply a full spectral scan?
It is a tristimulus colorimeter; choose a spectrophotometer when the method requires spectral data.
Can any sample be measured without preparation?
No. Use the correct support, holder and preparation for the sample form and required location.
Does repeatability establish accuracy on every material?
No. Apply the documented conditions and validate representative material.
What data options are described?
An optional data processor and compatible SpectraMagic NX2 workflow; confirm the quoted scope.
What is the price?
Price: Request a quote for the instrument and required references, accessories, software and service.
What should acceptance verify?
Verify repeated placement, reference and recipe consistency, the quality decision and its sample-associated record.
Price: Request a quote. Exact configuration, availability and support depend on the current supplier proposal.
