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REF - Single Measurement

This page describes how to capture a single measurement from the light sensor.

Single measurements from the DAQ-M are usually performed when measuring objects for their reflectance (REF). To measure an object's reflectance you need to also measure a reference standard of known percent reflectance. Our MCC post processing software supports our T3, T4 and T4P calibration targets as a reference surface, and only the most white target.

To perform a single measurement use the Lighting Mode in the SCANNER application

The time for each measurement scan is based on the Frame Average setting in the SCANNER application. The default Frame Average value of 20 provides a good balance of averaging measurements and a fast response between scans. Adjusting the Frame Average value to a smaller value, for example 10, will average less frames and make it more responsive. Increasing the Frame Average value will slow down the responsiveness but could improve the result by averaging more measurements.

DAQ-M :: Measuring the Reference Standard Target

Place the calibration target as close as possible to the object to be scanned, or in as similar lighting as the object. When using the DAQ-M Frame - 15 Degrees housing the measuring point is very narrow, but always try not to cast a shadow on the reference target surface for the best results. Move the DAQ-M around so that you find the best angles that don't cast a shadow, while trying to maintain about a 45 degree angle from the surface being scanned.

DAQ-M Measuring the Reference Standard Target

If Continuous Mode is on, then capture the measurement in the SCANNER application by pressing the stop button and holding the DAQ-M still.

If Continuous Mode is off then press the start button, hold still and then you can move again once the play button shows again.

The higher the Frame Average setting value is the longer each scan will take. The DAQ-M Frame - 15 Degrees and other Frames have a standard 1/4-20 tripod thread so you can attach it to most any non-moving tripod, arm, boom, etc.

Once recording is stopped the Save icon will show. Click it to save the spectrum measurement:

Type a unique name in the Save Spectrum screen and click Ok to save it:

Once recordings are saved you can view or export the saved data.

DAQ-M :: Measuring the Objects of Interest

While in the same lighting as the last reference target scan, scan your objects. If you move locations or the ambient lighting changes, you should rescan the reference target surface.

Move the DAQ-M around so that you find the best angles that don't cast a shadow, while trying to maintain about a 45 degree angle from the surface being scanned. If possible, also try and keep the same angle to the light source that the reference target was scanned at.

DAQ-M Measuring the Object of Interest
DAQ-M Measuring the Object of Interest
DAQ-M Measuring the Object of Interest

Capture the measurement in the SCANNER application by pressing the stop button and holding the DAQ-M still.

Once recording is stopped the Save icon will show. Click it to save the spectrum measurement:

Type a unique name in the Save Spectrum screen and click Ok to save it:

Once recordings are saved you can view or export the saved data.

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