What does an Integrator do, and what benefit do I get from having one on my exposure unit?

An Integrator is an electronic device used to measure the quantity of light emitted by a lamp in the spectrum  that actually exposes the screen. Once an exposure test is made to determine the quantity of light needed by a particular emulsion, the Integrator will keep the lamp on until that quantity is reached. If the amount of light emitted by lamps did not degrade over time, operators would be able to develop a set exposure time for each emulsion type. However, since lamps do degrade, calculating proper exposures without an Integrator becomes very difficult. Integrators enhance your control over the screen-making process and ensure precise repeatability. Each screen will receive the same quantity of light by taking into account the aging of the lamp and the voltage on the line.