Evaluation of the Klntz solid-state anomaloscope

Abstract

Kintz1 has recently described an inexpensive and portable anomaloscope whose test and primary stimuli are derived from LED bicolor light bars (Hewlett-Packard). We have assessed the validity (against a standard Nagel anomaloscope) and test–retest reliability of this instrument in classifying 36 color-defective observers. In addition, we have obtained normative data on 54 normal trichromats. Of the 14 deuteranopic and 8 deuteranomalous observers tested, 19 (86.4%) were classified identically on the Nagel and Kintz anomaloscopes and 21 (95.5%) were classified identically on the test and retest using the Kintz anomaloscope. Of the 9 protanopic and 5 protanomalous observers tested, 11 (78.6%) were classified identically on both instruments and all observers were classified identically on the test and retest using the Kintz anomaloscope. Although the Kintz anomaloscope appears to be a valid and reliable device for classifying color-defective observers, several design modifications are suggested for further separating the primaries in chromaticity space, for balancing the luminosity of the primaries, and for facilitating calibration of the instrument.