The spectrophotometer, built through advanced manufacturing processes, is one of the main diagnostic and research instruments developed by humans. It is used in the laboratory to determine the concentration of a substance in a solution, thus allowing quantitative analyzes.
How do these computers work?
As we know, it uses the properties of light and its interaction with other substances to determine the nature of them. In general, light from a special-feature lamp is guided through a device that selects and separates light from a certain wavelength and passes it through a sample. The intensity of the light coming out of the sample is captured and compared with the intensity of the light that hit the sample and from this the transmittance of the sample is calculated, which depends on factors such as the concentration of the substance.
As a basic principle light is considered to be a form of electromagnetic energy, which in vacuum has a constant velocity [C] and universal of approximately 3 x 108 m.s-1. In any other (transparent) medium through which the light passes, its velocity shall be slightly slower and may be calculated by means of equation v0 = C.n-1. Electromagnetic energy has a very wide range of wavelengths. And when passing through or interacting with various media, it presents a series of phenomena, among which stand out the reflection, refraction, diffraction, absorption, diffusion, polarization and others that are used in various instruments and devices.
What should you take into account for its proper functioning?
Generally speaking, in order for a spectrophotometer to work properly, it always requires a source of electricity according to the norms and standards implemented in the country, a dust-free environment and a stable work table away from vibration generating equipment such as centrifuges or agitators. But its preservation depends largely on the way it is installed and used. The environment around them and the quality of electricity services are of paramount importance, so that the equipment can provide the services according to the specifications for which they were manufactured. The maintenance routines that may be required vary in complexity, ranging from careful cleaning of components to specialized procedures, which should only be performed by technicians or engineers who have received the corresponding training and have the technical information developed by the manufacturers and that conform to the different models and designs available.
How to do your electrical installation
- There is an electrical outlet or receptacle with ground pole.
- The receptacle is in good condition and not more than 5 m from the spectrophotometer.
- The voltage is of an appropriate level and should not vary more than 5% of the voltage specified on the computer board.
- Socket polarity is correct.
- These tests must be carried out by an electrician or an engineer and the results recorded in formats that allow monitoring of their condition over time.
What to do when a stroke occurs?
- Turn off the spectrophotometer and disconnect the power cord.
- Use a syringe to clean the sample holder.
- Absorb as much fluid as can be removed.
- Dry the sample holder with a medicinal cotton swab.
- Use special lens cleaning paper or a soft textured, yarn-free piece of clean fabric to clean the photocell window.
- Wipe the outside of the instrument with a piece of cloth dampened with distilled water. Include the screen, controls, and keyboard. Thinking of you at Kalstein we offer you high quality spectrophotometers and high performance, which will be of great help in your laboratory, thanks to its versatility and technology. That’s why we invite you to take a look at our spectrophotometers available HERE
