New products

The Concept APL terminal provides a variety of character display, graphics, and output capabilities at low cost, according to the manufacturer, Human Designed Systems, Inc.

Following the success of the PSA 60.006 Ebdon High Solids Nebuliser in relationship to slurry atomisation for ICP, PS Analytical, in co-operation with Plymouth Polytechnic, has recently developed a mini-Ebdon version of this nebuliser. Designed to fit directly into the Meinhardt nebuliser end-cap as a straight replacement and constructed from Kel-F, the nebuliser both performs well and offers significant advantages over the Meinhardt and crossflow nebulisers.
Data obtained from a sequential plasma emission spectrometer using a Gilson Minipuls (Luton, Bedford-shire) peristaltic pump to aspirate the sample into a Fassel-type torch is presented in table 1. The work was carried out with a reduced-size spray chamber coupled to a tlow injection valve. Detection limits were obtained in the standard continuous mode of operations, however, 10 1 samples of 100 ppb concentration can be aspirated easily. The mini-Ebdon, like the standard version, is inert, is highly resistant to blockages, and provides similar detection level capabilities to the Meinhardt nebuliser.
For a limited period these nebulisers will be offered at an introductory price of 210"00 delivered to the UK. Fluorescence detector from

Philips Analytical
The PU4027 fully programmable fluorescence detector from Philips achieves high sensitivity and selectivity through the use of high energy efficient optics. Designed for the analysis of native and derivatised fluorescent compounds, the PU4027, in combination with solvent delivery systems such as the PU4100, provides the ultimate in LC trace analysis.
Microprocessor-controlled operation gives greater versatility, excellent reliability and ease of use, while operation is further enhanced by an LCD diagnostic multi-display. True dual monochromator operation, together with scanning of fluorescence spectra, gives unlimited flexibility when determining optimum detection conditions for multicomponent analyses.
A major feature of the PU4027 is the ability to change wavelengths automatically during the chromatographic run. The instrument can be programmed to automatically change excitation and emission wavelengths prior to peaks appear- water, oil and other materials. The spectrometer consists of a 3/4 meter polychromator for high sample throughput and a 3/4 meter scanning monochromator for the characterization and analysis of samples for elements which have wavelengths that are not installed in the focal curve of the polychromator. The monochromator and polychromator share the same ICP source and sample introduction system and are controlled using our ThermoSPEC software. The entire system, including RF power, gas flows, and sample introduction system are controlled via an IBM Personal System/2 Model 50 microcomputer. The plasma torch can be operated with low power, low argon flow for routine samples, and high power, high argon flow for difficult samples.
Unattended operation from the autosampler provides all the quality control logic functions required by the EPA Contract Laboratory Program.
Our ThermoSPEC software offers multi-level operation including menu-driven control for novices and occasional users, and a command mode for expert spectroscopists. Also included is an integrated word processor, HP's new detector is the first ofits kind capable ofdetecting oxygen, nitrogen, sulphur, carbon, silicon, hydrogen, chlorine, bromine and many other elements at picogramme levels. Applications include petroleum and petrochemical processing, environmental monitoring and chemical manufacturing. It is particularly useful as an aid in the identification of chemical compounds.
Product capabilities: detection limits from 0" 5 pg/s for carbon to 100 pg/s for fluorine; selectivities ofl 0 000 for most elements, including oxygen, when compared to carbon; detection ofup to four elements simultaneously from one injection; automatic sequences through any number of elements per sample by changing wavelength and reinjecting; on-line spectra to confirm the presence of a particular element; response factors for the same element in different compounds are constant to within 10%, regardless of the chemical nature of the compound being analysed; a compound's element ratio can be determined to typically better 138 than 10% accuracy; column compatibility ranges from 100-btm ID fused silica capillary to 1/4-inch packed columns; total automation ofanalysis and customised data presentation through macro-programming capabilities.
The AED consists of three major parts: the light source (microwaveinduced plasma); the light separator (spectrometer); and the light sensor [photodiode array (PDA) The light source for the HP 5921A is an atmospheric pressure, microwave helium-induced plasma. This plasma is generated in a water-cooled discharge tube contained in a new cavity design called a re-entrant cavity, which is a wave-guide coupled to a magnetron supplying microwave power. This arrangement provides for a very stable atomic emission source and requires no tuning of microwaves.
The spectrometer is a flat focal-plane mount consisting of an autofocusing slit, a concave holographic grating and a movable PDA. The latter covers a portion of the spectrum (ranging between 10 and 30 nm, depending on wavelength) in the 160-800 nm region. Any group of elements that have emission lines within the span of the PDA can be detected simul-taneously, up to a maximum of four elements. Every element on the periodic table has at least one atomic emission line in the spectral range of this design.
Using a PDA as the sensor gives real-time multipoint background correction to provide high selectivities.
Since the PDA output can be saved during a run, these on-line spectra can be used to confirm the presence of a given element in the gas-chromatographic peaks.
The HP 5921A complements mass spectrometry and infrared detection by allowing the user to determine elemental composition, which will be complementary to IR and mass-spectral techniques.
The system, which is priced below $100000, includes the HP 5921A atomic emission detector, HP 5890A gas chromatograph, computer controller with HP 35920A GC/AED software, HP 7673A automatic injector, and HP ThinkJet printer/plotter. Estimated  designed for high-performance preparative separations using high efficiency packing materials. Two features not found in any other available instrument are the pre-column switching valve with backflush and the multi-column switching valve. These options allow for unique and versatile approaches to solving preparative purification problems. Beckman software for automatic on-line dissolution analysis The new Beckman Dissolution 6/12 Soft-Pac software module for use with the Beckman range ofDU spectrophotometers provides convenient automatic on-line dissolution analysis from one or two baths. The software program integrates system oper.ation and control, sample delivery, data acquisition and hard copy reporting. Analytical wavelength can be selected for productive analysis extending up to 166"6 h determined by the time interval and number of baths. Using one or two wavelengths, the Soft-Pac module also allows for automatic background correction of raised or sloping baselines caused, for example, by sample turbidity. Volume corrections are not required. Data can be customised by the user to specific needs without complex programming steps. Dissolution percentage is calculated from a standard, or from a calibration curve generated by either linear regression or quadratic curve fitting, depending on the absorption characteristics ofthe compound under analysis.
Reports include raw absorbance data, reduced tabulated data and graphic plots of the dissolution profile. Test results include correction for reference standard weight, the mean and relative standard deviation, and minimum and maximum values. An optional RS232C output provides raw data to an external computer or data logger. DU Data Comm is designed for use with an IBM PC/XT/AT or PS/2 Series personal computer, allowing the user to se;,d irograms stored on disk or in the Beckman Data Transporter to a DU-60 or DU-50 Series spectrophotometer. Programs can also be sent from the spectrophotometer to the personal computer or Data Transporter. This capability allows mass storage of spectrophotometer step programs and provides an easier method of writing and editing such programs. The seven functions available are shown on the main option screen and, by making a choice ofa function letter, the user can receive a program from or send a program to the instrument, accept a program from the optional Data Transporter, dump a program to the transporter, get the program directory from the instrument, list a program on the printer, or change set-up parameters. Help messages can be obtained at any time during use at the touch ofa key. A combination of diode-array spectroscopy with applications software make it possible to offer a single package suitable for both laboratories requiring straightforward, reliable, high-productivity, routine analyses and laboratories involved in method development and research.
The new software contains options for general scanning, quantitation and kinetics applications. The package uses easy to follow menus and offers improved graphics features and better data-handling capabilities.
The general scanning software can display a complete UV/visible spectrum in seconds. With only a few keystrokes, spectra can be displayed, overlaid and mathematically manipulated displaying, the resulting spectra. The quantitation software provides fast quantitative determinations at one or several wavelengths. Suspect results are automatically flagged, and linear and non-linear calibration graphs can be selected.
The system can be automated to run calibration standards, unknowns and blanks unattended.
The kinetics software enables users to automatically acquire complete spectra at selected time intervals. Any wavelength can be selected from these data sets. Reaction rates and rate constants can be calculated for the time trace data. The resulting display includes a plot of the time trace data overlaid with the calculated curve fit.
Other programs can be started interactively from the UV/visible software environment. For example: complex calculations on spectral data and formatting can be done using spreadsheet programs, such as Lotus 1-2-3; files can be edited using several word-processing packages; spectra can be manipulated graphically using HP Charting Gallery or HP Drawing Gallery; files can be uploaded to mainframe computers using communication or networking packages. After using one of these packages, the display automatically returns to the UV/visible software without further programming. The pUMa CHEMMOD is built around the Motorola 68020 and INMOS Transputer processors. The 68020 runs an industry standard multi-user, multi-tasking, operating system and controls peripherals, such as disks and printers. A T800 Transputer runs the main application ,ode plus interfacing to the high performance graphics system built into the pUMa.
As well as providing a high level of performance the use of the Transputer gives the pUMa workstation an easily expandable computational power. The pUMa offers about 1"2 times the power of the VAX mini in its standard form but can be easily expanded to 100 times the power of the VAX. The Transputer makes this possible with its parallel processing architecture.
The CHEMMOD software package included in the pUMa CHEMMOD workstation provides comprehensive modelling facilities. It was first introducecl in 1987 and has been sold successfully by U-Micro throughout the world.
A particular feature of the new pUMa CHEMMOD workstation is U-Micro's commitment to porting a wide range of other chemistry and modelling related packages. These include: MOPAC, a semi-empirical molecular orbital program which provides information not possible with molecular mechanics, such as charge distribution; Gaussian 88, a molecular orbital program; HASL, a QSAR program which extends the superpose facility of CHEMMOD to cover the Van der Waals volumes of the molecule, rather than just atomic positions; Predict, a protein secondary structure prediction program which, given the amino acid sequence, will predict the conformation of the individual amino acids; AMBER, molecular dynamics; Using PyTechnology hardware, these robotic systems handle the preparation of liquids, viscous liquids and solid samples. The samples are prepared by the robot, in a sequence that is specified by the operator, and placed directly into the titration cell. The robot starts the titrator and monitors all operations to ensure a proper titration. When the titration is complete, the results are sent back to the robot and full documentation is provided. As the robot has full control over the titrator, any problems that are encountered with the samples are reported to the operator.
Several key benefits of a fully automated titration system are: unattended operation frees up the lab personnel; unattended operation provides greater sample throughput; reproducible operations improves the accuracy and precision of the data; provides the full documentation of the results; and reduces the cost per sample, as more samples can be run with less operator intervention. Several commercially available titrators can be interfaced with the robotic system, offering a full line of titration capabilities. Accurate results are obtained with the help of the saturation pressure tube, which is positioned alongside the analysis port so that measurements are made under exactly the same conditions as the analysis in progress. The use ofpatented isothermal jackets eliminates dead space error and allows analyses to run unattended for up to 60 hours. Independent vacuum systems isolate the sample prepar tion stations from the analysis port and eliminate the possibility of cross-contamination. Two distinct cold-traps prevent backstreaming of contaminating vapours.
Automatic sampler for particle size analyser Micromeritics has announced the MasterTech 51, an automatic sampler accessory for the SediGraph 5100 particle size analyser. The Sedi-Graph 5100/MasterTech 51 system can analyse 1-18 samples automatically in sequence and completely unattended. When the SediGraph 5100 is ready for another sample it signals to the MasterTech 51. Mechanical and ultrasonic agitation built into the MasterTech 51 will redisperse the next sample to it's original level of dispersion. The MasterTech 51 then transfers the redispersed sample to the SediGraph 5100 for analysis and reporting. All of these operations, including backflush and rinse of the sample-transfer tubing and redispersion apparatus, are accomplished automatically. Control of all operations is handled by the SediGraph 5100 Controller/Data Management Module. Like hiring a Master Technician, the SediGraph 5100/Master-Tech 51 system allows both unattended and after-hours operation. All analyses are performed exactly as specified without requiring the operator to be present. As with the SediGraph 5100, the MasterTech 51 will adapt to local voltages. product can be used with the Sartorius IB range of scales to provide a fast, easily identifiable method of check weighing. It uses a simple red/green/red display, which works in conjunction with pre-determined limits set into the scale, to indicate at a glance overweight, underweight or correct weight products.
To commence a typical checkweighing process, the operator first enters both the upper and lower acceptable weight limits into the keypad, tares the scale in order to take into account the weight of container and places the object to be weighed on to the pan. If the net weight displayed falls within the pre-programmed limits, the green indicator is illuminated on a separate display consol. If, however, the net weight is below the acceptable limit, a red light is displayed on the left-hand side of the unit and if heavier than required, a red light on the right-hand side of the unit shows. The programmed figures are retained by the Checkweigher until altered by the operator. ity to 31 kg to an accuracy of 0.1 g and has a multitude of applications. The light display console can actually be plugged into any Sartorius industrial scale, together with a 'plus performance' keypad to provide further checkweighing systems.
The Checkweigher can be used for mobile weighing using a rechargeable battery pack and the system can also be linked to a Sartorius Sartopac to provide an instant print-out of operations. This is particularly useful in average weight work for the purpose of statistics and for providing records for trading standards. Specific protein analyzer from Technicon Technicon Instruments have announced the launch of the DPA-1, a specific protein analyzer for protein testing in the clinical laboratory which combines the high performance of rate nephelometry and the flexibility of random access analysis.
The DPA-1 introduces innovative technology, allowing a multiple number of samples to be monitored whilst simultaneously yielding a throughput of up to 180 reportable patient results per hour.
The fully automated compact system will hold up to 45 patient samples and can be continuously loaded during operation. Each of the 12 resident liquid stable antisera are bar-coded to facilitate automatic entry of lot number, expiry data and calibration parameters. CRP reagent requires no off-line preparation and rheumatoid factor testing is accommodated without any impact on system throughput.
For economy and convenience, the DPA-1 requires only a single point calibration once every month. Specimens are automatically hatched so that serum samples are tested separately from cerebrospinal or urine samples, thus ensuring greater productivity. Specific test panels are programmed as desired so that a number of tests are selected by a single keystroke. The entire test menu can be arranged to suit the individual requirements of the user. DPA-1 software incorporates novel algorithms for automatic detection of excess antigen, and samples filling above or below a pre-defined range are also automatically re-run. A bidirectional interface allows transfer of sample programme and patient data between the DPA-1 and an external computer. For further information, contact.: Technicon Instruments Company Limited. Tel.: 0256 29181.
Biochemical analyser from Technicon AXON, from Technicon, is a random access, medium throughput biochemistry analyser with high electrolyte capability. The system will analyse 96 samples per hour (576 tests) for ISE and up to four colorimetric channels from an on-board test menu of 60 methods including user-definable assays. Reaction curve monitoring, on-board data storage, full demographic entry and definable report formatting are just four of the features of the user friendly, function drive, full colour software.
Barcode labelling of both reagents and primary sample tubes ensures ease of operation and minimum operator intervention. Approximately 40 methods will be available at launch, including immunoassay and specific proteins. Many of the reagents will require no preparation prior to placement on the system where it will be recognized by its barcode. Likewise barcoded primary containers may be placed in any sequence on the sample tray. Separate positions are provided for STAT and quality control samples.
AXON is designed for economical operation utilizing a combination of low reagent volumes (average 250-300 gl) and an on-board self-laundering system. For further information, contact: Technicon, tel.: 0256 29181.

Spectroscopic ellipsometer measures film thickness
An instrument for measuring film thickness in the optical and semiconductor industries is now available from Spectrolab. The new instrument, called 'MOSS', is a spectroscopic ellipsometer, capable of measuring the thickness of both single and multiple layers of materials deposited on a variety of substrates. The instrument incorporates a very accurate ellipsometer employing a collimated white light source that is made incident on the samples by way of a rotating polariser. Measurement of elliptically polarised light is made using a fixed analyser polariser and a double monochromator coupled optically to the ellipsometer. The system is therefore able to measure optical parameters at any wavelength between 300 nm and the near infrared, or throughout the infrared when used in conjunction with an FT interferometer.
MOSS is supplied with a complete software package suitable for both on-and off-line analysis, also for simulating the optical parameters of single or multiple films on a variety of substrates. Measurements can be made in real-time using a multichannel analyser enabling film quality and thickness to be measured during the manufacturing process. Servodyne mixer from Cole-Parmer Cole-Parmer Instrument Company has introduced microprocessor-controlled Servodyne mixers. The Servodyne system maintains and reproduces a constant mixing speed using a precision optical shaft encoder in the mixer head which sends exact motor rotation speed data to the controller. This allows constant speed despite changes in viscosity, temperature and power line voltage. The Servodyne monitors torque and prevents over-stirring or damage to critical fluids by automatically turning off and sounding an alarm. A unique zero torque mode allows monitoring and control of differential torque and the torque reading can be used to determine viscosity directly or, alternatively, a RS-232-C computer link is available to convert the torque output to viscosity units. developed an analyser, particularly for the water industry, which automates four of the most labour-intensive procedures in the analytical laboratory. The CSP Water Analyser simultaneously measures pH, conductivity, colour and turbidity at approximately 60 samples per hour. All the methods employed follow the standard 'Blue Book' procedures, including the colour determination which is carried out on a filtered sample. Up to 80 samples can be loaded on to the turntable at any one time. It is estimated that 2.5 man days per week can be saved by using this novel analyser.

Effluent monitor alarm system
Ionics Ltd have introduced a failsafe alarm unit to draw attention to any failure in carrier gas, compressed air and reagent supplies to its 6800 Series of TC/TOC process analysis monitors. The unit is of particular interest to plants where the monitors are stationed at a remote site or are normally checked infrequently.
The new alarm unit checks sample flow, carrier gas pressures, air flows, furnace temperatures and, for TOC monitors, acid inputs. Mounted in its own enclosure, the alarm system is wired and plumbed to the analyser with a separate terminal strip for contact wiring. The same contact closure (or opening) provides a signal output to the operator's instrument panel. In addition a recorder can be mounted directly into the 6800 Series system to provide a permanent record of signals. Designed for reliability and ease of use, Heli-flow gives accurate, reproducible analyses using only a few microlitres of sample and reagent. The spectrophotometric detector, flow cell, two peristaltic pumps, heater and the unique, patented, Heli-flow combined reaction cell, manifold and injection valve are all contained within a single instrument with a footprint of only 350 by 250 mm. The complete Heli-flow system costs less than 3000 compared with more than 10 000 for a conventional flow injection analysis system. For each assay of basket dissolution testing, the system adds media, runs standards and blanks for UV/VIS, monitors media background, attaches the baskets containing the samples and lowers the shafts, and analyses the samples by UV/VIS or HPLC. The system then washes the vessels and baskets, raises shafts and detaches the baskets, prints the report as it prepares for the next set of assays.
The system is preprogrammed to run the prednisone USP calibrator. Then, easy to follow menu-driven screens allow the input of product specific parameters for individual applications. Product  9150 Flue gas CO and O2 analysis system Teledyne Analytical Instruments has dramatically cut the cost of flue gas analysis with the Model 9150, a two-in-one flue gas analyser that monitors both oxygen and carbon monoxide. This dual-sensor analyser is equipped with an air aspirated sample system. It comes standard with three percentage oxygen ranges, 0-5%, 0-10% and 0-25%, and two carbon monoxide ranges, 0-500 ppm and 0-1000 ppm. The system is housed in a rugged enclosure rated NEMA 4, 12, and 13 and IP 55. Options include customised ranges and output signals, and digital or analog meters.

Analytical investment by RAPRA
As an extension to the material characterisation capabilities at Rapra, a state of the art infrared spectrometer, fitted with an in-line microscope, has recently been installed.
Infrared spectroscopy is amongst the established analytical methods offered to companies by Rapra and has a key technical input. Visible light microscopy, by virtue of its probing and diagnostic ability, is also an essential technique for material examination. By combining the two techniques in a single instrument Rapra can now provide an unrivalled facility for the identification of contaminants, fibres, defects, etc., and for detailed compositional mapping or morphological studies on polymers.
The microscope component is a full research grade instrument with high performance optics and is fitted with its own dedicated detector. Infrared spectra are recorded through the microscope and can be achieved either by reflection or transmission techniques. A video camera/colour monitor system is employed for sample examination. A photographic record of samples examined can also be obtained.
For further details of how this can helpyou, contact: Rapra Technology Limited, Shawbury, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY4 4NR, UK. Tel.: 0939 250383. P S Analytical move to new larger premises P S Analytical have recently moved their offices and production facilities to: Arthur House, B4 Chaucer Business Park, Watery Lane, Kemsing, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 6QY. Originally set up in 1983, P S Analytical has developed a wide range of accessories and modules primarily in the trace elemental analysis market place. These products include the PSA 10.003 Vapour Generator, a range of autosamplers as well as customised automatic analysis systems, for example, automatic density/refractive index systems and automated pH and conductivity systems. End-user sales, as well as OEM accounts, are handled by the manufacturing capabilities.
The improved facilities and additional space will, according to Dr P. B. Stockwell, Managing Director, provide an ideal platform to capitalise on recent developments and to increase production output in line with sales achieved, primarily for mercury determination. The launch of the new Merlin Fluorescence Detector has required increasing production facilities to meet the considerable demand. Since the first units were shipped in October 1988, 20 units have already been installed. The added space will also enable new products already in development to be rapidly brought to the market place.
For further details of the products in the P S Analytical portfolio and our skills in Laboratory automation, please contact Mr J. E. Bangerter at our new premises. Tel.: 0732 63416; Telex: 957645 PSA G; .Fax: 0732 61340.