Raman spectroscopy for busy people

With increasing pressure on productivity and output, selecting the correct solution for your analytical requirements has never been so critical. With this in mind, scientists at Renishaw recently completed a study on the use of research grade Raman spectroscopy systems. The study had two key objectives: maximising productivity, and identification of the features and functions most frequently used, and most critical for achieving successful and efficient Raman analysis. A range of users were interviewed, from new and non-expert to highly experienced Raman spectroscopists.

Maximising productivity

Respondents from both academia and industry reported that Raman spectroscopy systems were being used by an increasing number of non-expert users, with many systems now installed in multi-disciplinary centres. Renishaw concluded that for maximum productivity, a system needs to be flexible yet easy to use, offering high levels of automation. Senior staff, including supervisors and chief technicians, also requested remote access for the control of all instrument functions and settings. This access enables set-up and monitoring of experiments, in addition to training inexperienced users, all without having to be in front of the instrument.

Key instrument parameters

Renishaw identified the parameters that users changed most frequently when successfully collecting relevant Raman information from a wide-range of samples. For all sample types, key experimental parameters were laser excitation wavelength, exposure time, spectral range (for data collection and sample viewing) and size, and position and resolution for mapping and imaging experiments.
Other system functions necessary for successful analysis included variable white light intensity, fast switching from sample viewing mode to Raman collection mode, and repeatable sample manipulation in X, Y and Z axes.

See for yourself with the inVia Raman microscope!

Acting on the conclusions of this research, Renishaw has enhanced the capabilities of its flagship Raman product, the inVia Raman microscope. The inVia now offers:

• Remote system diagnosis and control of key system functions such as laser wavelength change, rapid switching between viewing modes, and automated system optimisation and validation. Run the system from your office!
• The ability to queue multiple measurements
• Measurement templates that enable non-expert users to apply identical experimental conditions time after time.

For Raman spectroscopy and imaging, your decision is now much easier. Renishaw’s enhanced inVia Raman microscope now offers complete automation, remote control, large area imaging, and faster operation, without compromising the inVia’s renowned performance and flexibility.