Colorimeters Review and Operation

Electronics, Instrumentation & Electrical Database

Colorimeters Review and Operation

Colorimeters are devices which can identify or characterize colors. In chemistry, colorimeters are used to determine the absorbencies of a particular color frequencies within chemical solutions (Beers laws experiments). This helps the chemist to determine concentrations of solutions which will absorb certain frequencies when present. The Colorimeter uses a photometer type detector, to measure the chemical reactions. The colorimeter measurement device consists of an instrument which directs a known light source through the chemical solution test sample. The calorimeter photocell receives the light source after it has traveled through the chemical solution. A digital or analog signal is produced in proportion to the light which the detector measures or receives. Other application for colorimeters is to identify and provide color adjustment assistance within video monitors, digital cameras, or to calibrate electronics within color printers.

Colorimeters are available with analog or digital type sensors and associated electronics. Colorimeters range in size from smaller portable handheld units to more larger sophisticated bench top units. Displays may be analog, digital or processed and displayed by associated computer.