Spyder+Colorimeter

= Spyder Colorimeter = toc The Spyder 3 colorimeter is a piece of hardware used to calibrate monitors. It is manufactured by the Datacolor company, and was preceded by the Spyder and Spyder 2. The Spyder 3 was released in 2010. Rather than relying on human perception to determine color accuracy, the colorimeter uses color output levels.

Features
The Spyder is available in three configurations: express, pro, and elite. The system consists of two external sensors connected to the computer via USB port, and a software application that uses the data collected to create color profiles. First, calibration options are set using the on-screen assistant that shows each step. Settings can also be manually adjusted all at once using the optional “Expert Console” for those who do not need an explanation of the process. The colorimeter is then placed in the center of the screen to detect its luminance, and the surrounding ambient light. (The Spyder Express does not come with an ambient light sensor.) With the settings defined and the hardware in place, the calibration program can be run. Using the gamma and white point measurements, a color profile is generated. A variety of images is then presented, and the user can switch between the old and new color profiles to decide which they prefer.

In addition to basic calibration tasks, the Spyder can be used to take advanced measurements of a monitor’s performance and capabilities. In addition to luminance, the Spyder can test contrast, screen uniformity, color saturation capabilities, and color tone responses. This can be helpful when interpreting calibration results and solving display problems. Spyder lets users take as much or as little control as they would like in the calibration process. Users can even manually modify the calibration curves that Spyder generates. The system is protected against hardware malfunction by the colorimeter’s self-testing capabilities. Any color you set can be tested for RGB levels, temperature, and intensity.

Use
In this video, photographer Catherine Hall demonstrates how to use the Spyder colorimeter to calibrate your display.

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 * References **

Kessler, T. (2010, October 25). //Calibrating displays: A look at the Spyder 3//. Retrieved from []

//Spyder 3 elite //. (2010). Retrieved from http://spyder.datacolor.com/product-mc-s3elite.php