Cleaning the TAMS

Cleaning the TAMS sensor

This page explains how to clean the TAMS optical area and contact surfaces to maintain reliable measurements while avoiding damage to the instrument or sample surfaces.

Safety and general rules

  • Do not open the instrument housing or remove any internal covers.
  • Always stop measurements and, where possible, switch off the instrument before cleaning.
  • Never use household cleaners, abrasive pads or unapproved solvents on any part of TAMS.

Cleaning the sensor lenses and LCD screen

The viewing window and internal optics of TAMS are precision components. They must only be cleaned using a dedicated lens cleaning kit (for example a camera/optical kit with blower, soft lens brush and lens tissues or microfiber cloth).

  1. Place the instrument on a stable surface with the measurement aperture facing up.
  2. Inspect the optical window under good lighting for dust, fingerprints or smears.
  3. Use the blower from the lens kit to remove loose dust and particles; do not use your breath.
  4. If particles remain, use the soft lens brush from the kit with very light strokes, avoiding any pressure on the window.
  5. For fingerprints or smears, apply a small amount of lens cleaning fluid to a clean lens tissue/microfiber from the kit.
  6. Wipe the window gently in straight lines, then dry immediately with a fresh, dry lens tissue.

Do not:

  • Spray or drip liquid directly onto the measurement aperture.
  • Use paper towels, standard cloths, cotton buds or abrasive wipes.
  • Press hard on the window, scrub in circles or reuse dirty tissues.
Optic cleaning may result in measurement issues if not performed correctly. Contact Rhopoint Service if in any doubt- if possible return instrument for factory or service centre cleaning

Cleaning the rubber feet and contact area

The soft rubber feet around the measurement base form the light enclosure and protect the surface being measured. Keep them clean to avoid contamination and sealing issues.

  1. Wipe the rubber feet and surrounding base gently with a clean, lint‑free cloth slightly dampened with water or mild detergent if needed.
  2. Remove any paint flakes, dust or debris, taking care not to push contamination into the optical aperture.
  3. Allow the rubber to dry completely before using TAMS again.

Avoid strong solvents that may swell or damage the rubber material.

Good practice to prevent contamination

  • Store TAMS in its case or on the docking station when not in use.
  • Avoid placing the measurement base on dusty, abrasive or heavily contaminated surfaces.
  • Allow freshly painted surfaces to flash off and harden according to process guidelines before measurement.
  • Inspect the optical window regularly; clean promptly if contamination is visible or if measurement stability degrades.

Regular cleaning with a dedicated lens cleaning kit and careful handling will help preserve the optical performance of TAMS and ensure stable, repeatable appearance measurements over the life of the instrument.