VWR
UV-1600PC
10037-436
I needed an affordable UV Vis spec for a new lab to do basic quantification of proteins, nucleic acids, etc. Looking at various budget models, I was surprised by how much this unit offered for its low cost.
Spectrophotometry
After the spec does a self check, it should be warmed up for 20 minutes. Cuvettes are inserted into the four cell holder. The cell position is changed manually by pushing or pulling on a plunger.
Ensure the cell is locked into the correct position. The plunger can be stiff and creaky.
Besides UV and Vis spectrophotometry, this can generate a standard curve and carry out kinetics. I use it as a stand-alone for quick readings but it can be connected to a computer for easier control and data acquisition. The included software should allow for functions such as 260/280 ratio as well but I haven't tried this.
PC software included
None
Affordable performance
4 position manual cell is creaky
This was the best spec in terms of price to performance that I found. This is a nice unit for a small startup lab or teaching lab.