Ocean Optics has launched its next-generation, miniature fibre optic spectrometer. The USB4000 replaces the company’s USB2000, and is small enough to be held in the palm of a hand. It features a 3648 element linear CCD array for substantially improved signal-to-noise performance, and enhanced 16-bit electronics for controlling the spectrometer and accessories.
With a choice of 14 gratings and 6 slits, the USB4000 can be configured for thousands of absorbance, reflection and emission applications. It features five triggering options, is responsive from 200-1100 nanometres and has an integration time as short as 10 microseconds, enabling the measurement of transient events such as laser pulses.
The USB4000's onboard, programmable microcontroller provides considerable flexibility in controlling the spectrometer and accessories. A 22-pin connector enables integration of all operating parameters in the software and additional functions such as light source control and external device triggering. There are 8 user-programmable digital In/Outs for controlling peripheral devices.
A choice of hundreds of fibre optic accessories such as light sources, probes and optical fibres allow creation of the optimal system for almost any application. The USB4000 interfaces to a PC, PLC or other embedded controller via USB 2.0 or RS-232 serial port. Data unique to each spectrometer is programmed into a memory chip which Ocean Optics’ SpectraSuite software reads for simple setup and hot swapping amongst PCs.