Comparison of Calibration Methods for Tristimulus Colorimeters

Published

June 1, 2007

Author(s)

J L. Gardner

Abstract

Uncertainties in source color measurements with a tristimulus colorimeter are estimated for calibration factors determined based on a known source spectral distribution or on accurate measurements of the spectral responsivities of the colorimeter channels. Application is to the NIST colorimeter and a CIE Illuminant A calibration. Detector-based calibration factors generally have lower uncertainties than source-based calibration factors. Uncertainties are also estimated for calculations of spectral mismatch factors. Where both spectral responsivities of the colorimeter channels and the spectral power distributions of the calibration and test sources are known, uncertainties are lowest if the colorimeter calibration factors are recalculated for the test source; this process also avoids correlations between the CIE Source A calibration factors and the spectral mismatch factors.

Citation

Journal of Research (NIST JRES) -

Volume

112 No. 3

NIST Pub Series

Journal of Research (NIST JRES)

Pub Type

NIST Pubs

Keywords

radiometry colorimetry, tristimulus colorimeter, uncertainty

Citation

Gardner, J. (2007), Comparison of Calibration Methods for Tristimulus Colorimeters, Journal of Research (NIST JRES), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD (Accessed October 13, 2025)