Instrument not Communicating with X-RiteColor Master

X-RiteColor Master software communicates with a wide variety of X-Rite (and some 3rd-party) instruments.  A common helpdesk call relates to the failure of these two entities to communicate.  Try the quick checklist below.  Unless there is a damaged cable or a hardware failure (instrument or PC), this will generally get you going again.

• Ensure that you have selected an appropriate database

  • "CM1", or 0°/45° for: 900 series, 500 series, CA22 or CF57.

  • "CM2", or Sphere for: SP series, 8000 series* or CFS57.

  • "CM3", or Three-Angle for MA58.

  • "CM5", or Five-Angle for MA68.

• Check the interface cable and power adaptor

  • Look for damage - if you have a spare, experiment.

  • Disconnect and reconnect cable - inspect connectors: look for bent contacts.

  • Ensure the instrument is receiving power.

• In X-RiteColor Master, ensure the COM port is selected and configured

  • From the command line select "Options / Instrument Port" - Usually "COM1".

  • From the command line select "Options / Instrument Mode" - Usually "Normal".

• Ensure instrument is properly configured

  • Baud should be set to 9,600.

  • Handshake should be OFF.

• Disable any other software that might use or confuse the COM ports

  • Palm Pilots are notorious.  Ensure Palm software is not running.

  • Some anti-virus software can block communications.

• Inspect Windows "Device Manager"

  • The properties of COM devices should display "This device is working properly".