Datacolor User to User Support Group.

On Sep 15, 2010, at 8:21 AM, bill_hansen20012001 wrote:

> CD - 
> You asked "Did it have a step where it asked you to adjust your white luminance (brightness)?"  No, for the first time since I started using the Spyder product, there was no such step available when I tried to calibrate.

Then you have things configured incorrectly. Be sure you have the latest build of Elite (the software update function should tell you). Use the Display Type Shortcut (shortcuts are in the lower left of most screens) to redefine your display, and be sure to define it as having a brightness control.  Just to be safe say it has a contrast control too, whether it does or not. Then choose target values that include a brightness (120 is fine for now), and it should, during the calibration process, have a screen where it asks you to set the brightness. You will fail, if you display can only muster 100 and its targeting 120, and later it will warn you that you missed your brightness target.

> That was the main thing I was trying to ask about when I started this thread.

Sorry to have gotten bogged down in other factors. But it is important that you understand that a 300c/m2 screen thats down to a max of 100 can no longer be effectively used in any but a near-black room, and should not be used in medium ambient light.

>  Regardless of the need for a new monitor, I need to know what I'm doing wrong, or what I've forgotten, which won't allow me to see those screens. I've checked the user's manual and the FAQs, and if this situation is in one of those, I'm missing it there too.

See directions above...
> 
> Second - need for a new monitor. I can see that you're right. For the time being, I'm afraid I'll have to make do with my present monitor, an 18 month old HP 2065, which was bought directly from HP's online shopping center. My power settings put the monitor to sleep after 5 minutes except when I'm going to calibrate the monitor, so it shouldn't have worn out nearly this quickly. My "luck" with HP has sure been terrible, with two computers and now with this monitor. I guess I'm a pretty slow learner, to have chosen an HP monitor this time around.

If you bought it on Visa, they double your warranty, which should give you at least two years. Convincing HP that a dim display is a failed display may be a challenge, however. I have a $7000 Eizo that for years has barely manage 60c/m2... and Eizo isn't too happy to talk about that... and they are much more involved in high-end uses than HP.

C. David Tobie
Global Product Technology Manager
Digital Imaging & Home Theater
CDTobie@...