Applications for UV-VIS spectroscopy include quantification of nucleic acids, proteins, and cells, as well as monitoring enzyme reactions, along with a variety of other uses. Even in the traditional application areas, such as materials characterization, optics, coatings, glass, pharmaceutical QA/QC, and color control, UV/VIS spectroscopy has become more sophisticated, providing higher quality results faster and easier than ever. The Lambda 25 UV/VIS Spectrophotometer, a product of PerkinElmer Inc., is a solid and robust system fit for these needs. The system is easy to operate and delivers results the user can trust with minimal operator training. The key feature is its easy to develop, simple, robust methods; this ensures that the methods are followed without mistakes. This is an ideal match for most routine UV/VIS applications, including regulatory tests, giving fast and reliable results time after time.
The Lambda 25 has true double-beam operation that provides the best possible stability and allows references to be measured and corrected in real time. However, the bandwidth of the Lambda 25 is fixed at 1 nm; in the 35/45 system, the user has the option to select from bandwidths of 0.5, 1, 2 and 4 nm. The 25 system is also limited for liquid samples, unlike the 35/45 where even solid, semi-solid, paste and powdered samples can be used. The Lambda 25 system offers the widest range of sampling accessories, like Peltier temperature control, a fiber-optic probe for in situ sampling, automatic linear cell changers, and many more.
The Lambda 25 comes with powerful software, UV WinLab version 2.85 that guides the user through method development, analysis, reporting and interpretation of results in a series of simple steps – so it’s easy to keep in touch with all stages of analysis. With a single mouse click, the software archives all of the methods and results in a secure, relational database and transforms the data from a collection of individual results into valuable knowledge to help the user make faster decisions. The instrument has 5 different operation modes: Scanning, Timedrive, Wavelength Program, Concentration and Misc (Rate, Quant, Scanning Quant). The user can choose to generate, save and execute unlimited methods under these modes based on his/her need. Method lock and password protection keep key parameters from being changed. All revisions are saved in a single location. The best part is the data analysis and report generation. It is automated and customizable making it user-friendly and efficient.
Many low-priced UV/VIS systems are available today. For labs that work with common sample types and a narrow range of simple measurements, these low-cost units may be a cost-effective choice. However, for doing repetitive tasks requiring high performance, the Lambda 25/35/45 system is strongly recommended.
Guest PhD
Institute of Environment & Resources DTU
Technical University of Denmark