SPECTROMETER & SPECTRAL RADIOMETER

Since 1986, our spectrometer and spectral radiometer have been used for many applications. The current models are characterized by high-quality measurements and are easy to use. The UVpad is the world's thinnest spectral radiometer for UV belt systems. Available also with external sensor head.

Introduction to spectrometers

A spectrometer is an instrument used to measure the UV light spectrum. It can analyze the intensity of light depending on the wavelength or frequency. Spectrometers are essential in analytical chemistry as they allow the identification and quantification of substances through their spectral signatures. They are also widely used in radiometry, physics, materials science, biology and environmental science.

Modern spectrometers use various techniques such as CMOS, CCD, photomultiplier and filter wheels. Each technique has its specific applications and advantages. Advanced spectrometers can detect extremely low irradiance levels, making them an indispensable tool in research and industry. As technology advances, spectrometers are becoming more precise, mobile and user-friendly, making them indispensable in a wide range of applications.

How spectrometers work

Spectrometers separate the light into its components, i.e. the wavelengths or frequencies, and measure the intensity of each component. In practice, this makes it possible to measure different lamps, LEDs and light sources.

The operation of spectrometers involves several steps. First, the entrance optic is irradiated with light. This light is then split by a dispersive element such as a prism or a grating, which spatially separates the different wavelengths. Sensors such as photodiodes or CCDs then detect the separated light beams and a spectrum is generated. The spectrum can be analyzed to draw conclusions about the sample. 

A frequently used setup is the Czerny-Turner spectrometer. A Czerny-Turner spectrometer typically consists of two mirrors and a grating. The arrangement is chosen so that the optical aberrations are minimized and the spectral resolution is maximized. The design also enables handling, especially in mobile applications or smaller laboratory environments, and precise light analysis.

Types of spectrometers

Here are three basic types: Array spectrometers, monochromators and double monochromators.

Array spectrometers: Array spectrometers use an array of detectors, usually CCD or CMOS sensors, that simultaneously capture a wide range of wavelengths. This technology enables fast measurements as the entire spectrum is captured at once without the need for moving parts.

Monochromators: Monochromators have a clock and rotating grating adjustment system to select a specific wavelength, which is then transmitted for further analysis. Monochromators are capable of very precise and pure spectral measurements and are often used in research and quality control applications where high precision wavelength selection is required.

Double monochromators: Double monochromators use two monochromators in series to achieve an even higher purity of spectral output. This arrangement reduces stray light and increases spectral purity, making them particularly suitable for applications where extremely low stray light levels are required, such as in high-quality laboratory applications, in the UV spectral range or when measuring very weak light signals.

Applications of spectrometers

The following diverse measurement options and applications of a spectrometer are possible:
- Illuminance: Quantitative determination of light intensity
- Most similar color temperature CCT: Determination of the color temperature that comes closest to a light source in order to describe the visual perception of "warmth" or "coldness" of light
- Color rendering indices: Evaluation of the accuracy and quality with which colors are rendered by the light from the lamp
- Color coordinates according to CIE standards: Determination of color locations in the CIE color space for color classification
- Spectral power distribution: Analysis of the distribution of the energy of a light source across the entire spectrum
- Peak wavelength and dominant wavelength: Determination of the wavelengths at which the light source emits the highest energy or the optically dominant energy

Advantages of spectrometers

Spectrometers and filtered radiometers are both instruments for measuring the properties of light, but they offer different advantages depending on the application and the required precision. Here are the advantages of spectrometers compared to filtered radiometers

• Higher spectral resolution: Spectrometers can break down light into its individual wavelength components and therefore provide detailed spectral information about the light sample.
• Flexibility: Unlike filtered radiometers, which are limited to measuring a fixed UV lamp through the use of specific filters, spectrometers can be used dynamically over a wide wavelength range.
• Versatility in application: Because spectrometers provide detailed spectral information, they can be used in a variety of applications, from environmental science to medical diagnostics to industrial quality control.
• The measurements are fast and can be performed in real time.
• Spectrometers contribute to quality control in production.

Disadvantages of spectrometers

• Spectrometers are often expensive to purchase.
• Poorer sensitivity with weak signals
• The operation and evaluation of the data requires trained specialist personnel.
• Depending on the type, devices may require more maintenance.

Selection criteria and differences when buying a spectrometer

When purchasing a spectrometer, various selection criteria should be carefully considered in order to make an informed decision. First of all, the type of spectrometer is crucial: whether a mass spectrometer, an atomic absorption spectrometer or another specific model is required depends on the planned application. We offer a high-quality selection of spectroradiometers.

Spectroradiometer

Spectroradiometers measure the spectral irradiance in a calibrated manner. Their coupling optics consist of a diffuser, which is usually connected to a light guide.

For other applications, there are special spectrometers that differ significantly from spectroradiometers:

Mass spectrometers

Mass spectrometers separate ions based on their mass-to-charge ratio. These devices can identify and quantify the smallest quantities of substances. They are used in chemical analysis, biochemistry (e.g. proteome analysis), environmental sciences and in the pharmaceutical industry.

Atomic absorption spectrometers

Atomic absorption spectrometers measure the absorption of light by vaporized metal atoms and are used for the quantitative determination of metal concentrations in solutions. This method is often used in environmental analysis, toxicology and materials science, particularly for the analysis of heavy metals in liquids.

Spectrophotometer

Spectrophotometers, often referred to as UV-Vis spectrometers, measure the intensity of light absorbed or transmitted by a sample and use this to determine the concentration of dissolved substances. Widely used in clinical laboratory diagnostics, water analysis and food monitoring. Automation technology and for determining the transmission and reflection of samples.