The C15471 Raman mini spectrometer module has an integrated laser diode that offers a power of up to 50 mW. The increase in power compared to the previous model to more than three times enables more accurate measurement results at even lower concentrations of Raman-active molecules, especially for nonpolar substances. In addition, it operates in an even broader wavelength range that includes such substances as wax, fats or fragrances or flavors dissolved in alcohol. Furthermore, the Raman spectrometer can also be used without a sample holder for open-path measurements, for example in outdoor soil investigations.

In addition to the familiar optics, Hamamatsu supplies free evaluation software with its new Raman spectrometer. The program, called Tokuspec, is primarily used for a quick assessment of the instrument's capabilities. It allows even complex experimental setups to be quickly set up and the generated results to be evaluated.
Gold-coated substrate enhances Raman effect

The C15471 mini spectrometer contains optical elements, image sensor and sample holder in one housing, making it versatile. This benefits OEM manufacturers and users of portable systems in outdoor applications, for example. As a SERS spectrometer, the C15471 offers the possibility of amplifying the scattered light - and thus the Raman effect - by means of a gold-coated substrate before it is directed through the optics to the built-in active pixel sensor, where it is measured. Radiation deviations, so-called Raman shifts, are detected depending on the molecule under investigation. The wide measuring range ensures that even more materials can be detected with the C15471 on the basis of their "Raman fingerprint" than with the predecessor model. This makes the C15471 suitable, for example, for users in environmental protection to test the pollutant content in water and for pharmaceutical companies to investigate drug interactions in tissue.

The spectrometer module has a USB interface for transferring the spectral data to a PC or other external hardware. The output is the Raman spectrum, from which the shift (the distance of Raman scattering from the central wavelength of the laser) can be read in units of wavelength or wavenumber, depending on the user's choice. The data format can be customized to meet the requirements of downstream applications for analysis using the included Tokuspec software.

Open-path measurements possible

After removing the sample holder, the C15471 also allows open-path measurements. This allows the instrument to be used in mobile application scenarios, for example to detect surface contamination with bacteria in food logistics or for rapid investigation of water bodies. But the open-path operation of the C15471 can also be useful in laboratory use or in manufacturing processes, because the reduced effort for sample preparation allows a high number of measurements in a short time. For example, in-line analyses can be generated for process monitoring and control. "With the C15471, Hamamatsu is raising the mini Raman spectrometer segment to a new level of performance. At the same time, we make it easier for our customers to use the product quickly and flexibly with the option for open-path measurements and the new Tokuspec evaluation software," explains Christoph Wöhnl, Senior Sales Engineer Analytical.
Evaluation without training

Tokuspec - the name of the evaluation software is derived from the Japanese Kanji characters , and means something like gain, benefit or advantage. An interface with a context-based help function ensures that users can work with the software without lengthy training and familiarization when evaluating spectrometers from Hamamatsu. Among other things, they benefit from modular layouts that allow the display of results to be optimally adapted to their needs - for example, by splitting different views across multiple windows and thus monitors.

Automatic spectrometer detection ensures that users are shown all spectrometers connected to the computer when they start the software. This allows users to set up test scenarios and assess whether the device meets the requirements. When testing multiple devices simultaneously, they can see which model provides the best results. This allows them to start productive use more quickly; the instrument pays for itself faster.

Convenient functions for configuration and operation

When configuring the C15471 spectrometer module and many other Hamamatsu models, Tokuspec supports users with functions for setting up the instrument for the specific application. Exposure time and trigger can be adjusted, as can laser power, for example. In addition, the software enables both the preview of live data and the recording of long-term measurement series. Depending on the performance of the computers used, different scenarios can be controlled and monitored simultaneously on several connected devices from one PC. The data acquired in the process can be saved in various file formats, including text-based formats.

In addition to acquisition, Tokuspec also supports processing of the acquired data with basic functions such as emission, transmission or absorption calculations. In addition, users can acquire, edit, store and recycle correction data such as background, shading and reference spectra as needed. The included noise reduction algorithms, such as average or median filters, help eliminate spurious frequencies to improve the quality of the measured results.
The software can continue to be used free of charge after evaluation - unlike demo versions of paid programs from other manufacturers. In addition, Tokuspec's plug-in concept allows users to use the included SDK to develop additional software modules themselves for special functions, such as converting measurement data into a proprietary data format. "With Tokuspec, users receive convenient software for evaluating and setting up Hamamatsu's mini-spectrometers, which can also provide valuable services during operation - and at no additional cost," says Markus Roming, Software Engineer at Hamamatsu.

Author
Uwe Küll, Freelance Author and Journalist