General rules

Before data capturing remember to:

1. Keep your data capturing software and firmware  UpToDate.
2. Ensure your instrument is fully charged if battery operated or has the proper electrical power supply. 
3. Check the instrument's optical path, make sure it is free of dust - good practice to perform periodic cleanings to keep instrument in optimal condition – see manual of instrument maintenance for detailed instruction on what and how to clean
4. Each instrument has unique calibration plate - in most cases it is white ceramic tile. This Calibration Plate has to be in perfect clean condition- otherwise all measurement become questionable. Clean the plate per manufacturers recommendations.
5. Ambient temperature should be as specified by instrument manufacturer – typically about 72°F +/- 4°F (22°C +/- 2°C), Humidity should be 50%RH +/- 20% RH. 
6. Some of the instruments become more stable after warming-up. Few minutes of "warm up" measurements helps to achieve better accuracy and repeatability (i1Pro2 especially benefits from this today)
7. Be sure to set correct measurement conditions: M0, M1, M2, M3 and other instruments settings
8. Keep your Target clean free of dust and scratches and in the dark place to avoid light exposure when stored.
9. For handhelds check if the base unit is clean from the bottom - when working next to the printing press, ink from wet substrate may stain "Target".
10. Replace your Target when expired or damaged.