Class 1 Laser Safety
The standard Class 1 safety cabinet more commonly associated with high-end Raman systems.
Confocal Imaging
The automatic XYZ stage is used for confocal imaging with X/Y spatial resolution to 1 µm (Z=1.5 µm). Spectra Manager™ Suite with the Imaging Analysis application is used to collect a three dimensional image of the sample which can be rotated and viewed from any angle. The image map is created using peak data corresponding to key functional groups and analysis of multiple peaks can be combined to create powerful data images.
Rigid Optical Bench and Laser Image
The microscope has a completely rigid structure to prevent flexing and is not built around an optical microscope.
Switching between observation and measurement modes is completely automatic and can be done with the safety cabinet closed.
Standard Configuration
532/785nm Lasers with Matching Edge Filters
several standard configurations including the typical 633nm single laser or 532/785nm laser combination with matching notch or edge filters, with an option for a third laser which can be mounted internally or externally. Observation of the laser spot ensures perfect alignment of the target sample position and provides an indication of surface roughness. All laser wavelengths are selected in the software and once selected, the optical system (including the laser) is automatically aligned for optimal throughput and resolution. Four software selectable gratings control the spectral range and resolution from 8000 to 100 cm-1 (8000 to 50 cm-1 as an option). The grating direct drive system includes a rotary encoder to ensure excellent wavelength reproducibility ±0.2cm-1.
Fluorescence Rejection
457nm Laser and Patented Fluorescence Rejection Algorithm
and novel (patented) mechanisms to deal with sample fluorescence. As with other Raman systems, we can utilize laser wavelengths of 785 nm and up to 1064 nm, but we have recently incorporated a 457 nm laser that offers significantly higher Raman signal, improved spatial resolution and much lower fluorescence for many different sample types. Selecting a different excitation laser wavelength is only one of the ways the NRS-4500 minimizes fluorescence interference. The Fluorescence Rejection algorithm (patented) included in the Spectra Manager™ can effectively remove or minimize fluorescence regardless of the laser wavelength used either at the time of measurement or during post-processing.