Avantes is redefining miniature spectrometers with the next generation of AvaSpec-Mini. Known for packing the power of a full-size spectrometer into a package about the size of a deck of cards, the AvaSpec-Mini has long been a favourite choice for use in applications where small size can’t sacrifice results, including hand-held OEM integrations.
Known for Results
The popular and trusted AvaSpec-Mini2048 and AvaSpec-Mini2048L large pixel spectrometers cover the 200-1100 nm wavelength range and feature the Sony CCD Linear array 2048 pixel and 2048 Large pixel detectors respectively with a resolution possible to 0.1 nm. These popular instruments have been widely adopted for applications across dozens of industries.
The photonics market, however, is phasing out CCD detectors in favour of embracing advancements in Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) technology. Even while the AvaSpec-Mini2048 and AvaSpec-Mini2048L remain available for the time being, there are undeniable benefits to embracing the future of spectroscopy.
The Future is CMOS
The Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) detectors dominated the photonics industry for nearly two decades, but the move by some major manufacturers to obsolete some popular front-illuminated CCD detectors has sped up the pace for development of alternatives. Recent advancements in CMOS in recent years has seen this technology develop into a superior replacement for CCD.
One advantage of CMOS detectors built into the new line of AvaSpec-Mini-CLs lies in integration time, cutting integration times from 1-2 ms to 20 μs, which ensures superior support of high-speed applications. CMOS also delivers native response in the UV (no detector coating required) between 200 and 400 nm as well as superior response in the NIR above 900 nm and eliminates the blooming and smearing that impacts traditional CCD detectors.
Innovative Manufacturing
The next generation of AvaSpec-Minis, the AvaSpec-2048CL and the AVASpec-4096CL, represent the Avantes commitment to advancing technology by combining the most advanced detectors and electronics available. Now, they also represent the most advanced manufacturing techniques available as well. Avantes begins deployment of automated optical alignment tooling with the AvaSpec-Mini. The use of automated processes and computerized optical alignment ensures flawless alignment of optical components, enhanced thermal stability, and unit-to-unit reproducibility that is already in demand by original equipment manufacturers.
Versatility and Value
The Avantes CompactLine of AvaSpec-Mini spectrometers has been trusted and respected for years, and now Avantes leads the way into the future of spectroscopy with a new family of leading-edge miniaturized spectroscopy instruments.