Optical Spectrometer
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Reliable and intuitive PC software, designed to help speed up your research, is provided at no extra cost. The latest versions are always available to download via our website.
Ossila Spectroscopy 1.3.0
The latest version of the measurement software for the Ossila Optical Spectrometer.
Download (90.2 MB)
Minimum System Requirements
Operating System Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit)
CPU Dual Core 2 GHz
RAM 4 GB
Available Drive Space 305 MB
Monitor Resolution 1280 x 960
Connectivity USB 2.0
Versatile, Affordable, and Simple Optical Spectrometer
Miniature USB system for UV-Vis spectroscopy measurements
Overview | Specifications | Software | Related Products | Resources and Support
The Ossila Optical Spectrometer is an accessible system, bringing affordable UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy to research scientists worldwide. The fully programmable, modular design means it fits nicely into most existing UV-Vis-NIR optical spectroscopy labs. A simple command library and triggers modes make it easy to integrate into your workflow.
The compact CCD detector, fiber optic and USB compatibility, precision optics, and intuitive free software mean our spectrometer can be adapted into any laboratory. Quickly start measuring the optical properties of your samples.
Our versatile and modular design allows you to analyze many different samples, including solutions and thin film samples.
Buy as an independent modular spectrometer or as a part of our complete optical spectroscopy kit to get started straight away.
Optical Spectroscopy Kit
- Unbeatable Value
- Includes Spectrometer and Accessories
Worldwide Delivery £2400
USB-C Powered
Power with your computer or laptop
Powerful Electronics
High-speed 16-bit, 500 kSPS ADC
Free Software
With free updates
What is an Optical Spectrometer?
In general, a spectrometer is a device that separates spectral components of a continuous characteristic, such as electromagnetism, so that it can be measured.
An optical spectrometer separates a beam of light into its constituent wavelengths. This done using a dispersive element, such as a grating or prism. The relative intensities of these wavelengths are measured using an optical sensing element. Optical spectrometers work primarily in the visible light region of the electromagnetic spectrum, extending into the UV and IR regions, and are used to perform optical spectroscopy.
Optical Spectrometer Features
Dynamic Spectral Range
The Ossila Optical Spectrometer measures the entire visible light spectrum, from the UV-A band to near infrared. With a range of 320 nm to 1050 nm and resolution of up to 2.5 nm, it is perfect for many measurements. Our system can be used to study a wide range of materials including photovoltaic, solar cell, OLED, biological, and 2D materials.
A filter is included to partially cover the detector when performing spectroscopy in the visible range. This minimises the impact of higher diffraction grating orders on the spectra.
Fast Acquisition Speeds
A powerful Arm cortex M4 processor works with a low-noise, high-speed 16-bit, 500 kSPS analog-to-digital converter (ADC) to provide fast and accurate operation. All of this is powered through a USB type-C connection.
Thanks to its powerful electronics, the system is capable of transferring over 100 frames-per-second to the host computer when running in internal trigger mode. Alongside the USB power and data connector, a six port I/O expansion header allows for easy integration with other 5V equipment.
Free Software and Completely Programmable
Our optical spectrometer includes powerful spectroscopy software to help you start measuring quickly. Intensity, transmission/reflection, and absorbance measurements are all available. Additional features include spectral averaging and accumulation, autosaving, peak detection, and offset and gain adjustment.
Using the simple serial command interface, you can integrate the system with other hardware. A full list of commands is included in the product manual along with a number of examples in Python to help you get started.
Compact and Modular Design
The clever design of the Ossila Optical Spectrometer combines optical elements and internal electronics into an extremely small footprint. The result is a lightweight, compact but powerful UV-Vis-NIR spectrometer.
With a high strength enclosure, the system is capable of withstanding heavy daily use in the lab. The optional spectrometer case, included in the complete optical spectroscopy kit and available to buy separately, also allows it to be bolted to standard optical tables or breadboard plates.
Internal and External Trigger Modes
Use the optical spectrometer in free-running mode, or integrate with other systems using the external trigger input. The unique rolling integration mode allows the integration time to be controlled dynamically by external trigger signals.
The optical spectrometer includes an output to synchronise acquisition with an external shutter, and also has two programmable general purpose output pins. In total, it features six I/O ports, including a ground port.
USB Powered
Power your optical spectrometer via the USB port. There is no need for an additional, dedicated power supply. This makes our optical spectrometer portable and versatile.
You can get up and running on our optical spectrometer quickly and easily with either your computer or laptop - simply plug in via the USB port and begin measuring.
Testimonials
I have been using the Ossila Optical Spectrometer in my research to measure absorption, transmission, and reflectivity. I highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for a cheap, fast, reliable and easy-to-use spectrometer for their optical experiments.
Kyriacos Georgiou, PhD, University of Cyprus
Spectrometers and Spectroscopy
- White Light Source
- Transmission Holder
- Breadboard
- More
Affordable Spectroscopy
Specifications
| Dimensions (D x W x H) | 78 mm x 78 mm x 38 mm (3.07" x 3.07" x 3.07") |
|---|---|
| Weight | 150 g (0.33 lb) |
| Wavelength Range | 320 nm – 1050 nm |
| Grating Blaze Wavelength | 500 nm |
| Resolution (FWHM) | 2.5 nm |
| Optical Input | SMA 905 fibre or free space |
| Entrance Slit Width | 25 µm |
| Connection Type | USB type-C |
| Communication Protocol | Serial-over-USB |
| Dark Noise* | <50 counts |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | >500:1 |
| Detector Type / Pixels | CCD / 1600 |
| Analog-to-Digital Converter | 16-bit, 500 kSPS |
| Data Transfer Speed* | Up to 100 fps (PC dependant) |
| Stray Light | <0.2% |
*measured at 50 us integration time
What does the signal-to-noise ratio mean?
In order for a signal to be useful, it has to be significantly higher than the noise level. Therefore, an important property of spectrometers is the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR or S/N). This is a measure of the sensitivity of the spectrometer and compares the intensity of the signal, i.e. the spectral feature(s) you are looking at, to the intensity of the background noise.
SNR is often defined as the maximum signal height divided by the root mean square (RMS) of the noise in the background signal. It can be expressed as a ratio (e.g. 500:1) or in decibels (dB). If the ratio is greater than 1:1 (0 dB), the signal is greater than the noise.
The Ossila Optical Spectrometer has a signal-to-noise ratio of > 500:1.
Price Information
| Optical Spectroscopy Kit | £2400 |
|---|---|
| Ossila Optical Spectrometer | £1250 |
| Ossila Spectroscopy Software | FREE |
The Ossila Optical Spectrometer is eligible for FREE worldwide shipping and is covered by our two year warranty as standard.
Spectroscopy Software
The Ossila Optical Spectrometer comes with powerful spectroscopy software which makes it quick and easy to control the device and start collecting data. Take background spectra and measure intensity, transmission / reflection and absorbance measurements in just a few clicks. The spectroscopy software also features spectral averaging and accumulation, peak detection, offset and gain adjustment, and more - all via a straightforward user interface.
Software updates are provided at no extra charge and are available to download from our website.
Software Features
No programming required
The Ossila Optical Spectrometer can be controlled via the spectroscopy software. Setting up a spectroscopy experiment and taking optical measurements has never been easier. No programming knowledge required.
Intuitive and easy-to-use
The Ossila spectroscopy software has been designed to be intuitive and easy to use. Spectra workspaces allow you to take multiple spectra and view important numerical data at a glance. Common features and settings can be accessed via the quick access bar at the top of the screen.
Multiple measurement modes
The Ossila Optical Spectrometer spectroscopy software makes it straight-forward to take measurements in five different measurement modes: intensity, intensity (background corrected), intensity (sensitivity corrected), transmission / reflection, and absorption.
Optional serial command interface
Serial commands can be sent to the optical spectrometer via the spectroscopy software. Alternatively, the spectrometer can be controlled via serial commands sent from most programming languages.
Using the supplied optical spectroscopy software and a suitable optical set up, the Ossila Optical Spectrometer can measure transmission, reflectivity, scattering, absorption, and luminescence (including photoluminescence, fluorescence, phosphorescence, and electroluminescence) over a wavelength range of 320 nm to 1050 nm.
These methods have a wide range of applications across a number of different fields. They can be used to characterise LEDs and lasers, measure the efficiency of (anti)reflection coatings at various wavelengths, probe absorbing materials to reveal information about their atomic structures, and detect fluorescence. In photovoltaics, the Ossila Optical Spectrometer can be used to measure both the source spectrum (i.e. the solar spectrum) and the absorption spectrum of the device so that the two can be compared.
Software Requirements
| Operating Systems | Windows 10 |
|---|---|
| CPU | Dual Core 2.0 GHz |
| RAM | 2 GB |
| Available Hard Drive Space | 300 MB |
| Monitor Resolution | 1280 x 960 |
| Connectivity | USB 2.0 |
Software Installation
To install the spectroscopy PC software, download the latest version from our website or insert the supplied USB memory stick into your computer and run the "Ossila-Spectrometer-Installer-vX-X-X-X.exe" file. Once installed, plug the optical spectrometer in via the supplied USB type-A to USB type-C cable. When launched, the software will automatically detect any Ossila Optical Spectrometers connected to the PC.
Command Library
The Ossila Optical Spectrometer can be controlled using a simple serial command library; the device will appear as a COM port when connected to a PC. Commands can be sent via the command window in the spectroscopy software or via most programming languages. A full list of commands and example code is included in the user manual.
Optical Spectrometer Accessories
Resources and Support
Spectrometer vs Spectrophotometer
Spectrometers and spectrophotometers are two commonly used instruments in scientific research, particularly in the field of spectroscopy.
Read more...
Choosing a Sample Holder for Spectroscopy
One question to consider is should you measure your samples as a thin film or in solution? This decision will depend on the type of measurement you are taking, your sample and its desired application.
Read more...
Light Sources for Spectroscopy
Spectroscopy can be performed using a range of different light sources. These can typically be categorised as being either monochromatic or broadband.
Read more...
UV-Vis Spectroscopy Troubleshooting
It can be incredibly frustrating if you encounter a problem while performing UV-Vis spectroscopy, and usually causes an unnecessary delay.
Read more...
UV-Vis Spectroscopy Errors
Like any analytical technique, spectrometers are subject to error, including dark noise, stray light, and spectral bandwidth.
Read more...
Python for Spectroscopy: Spectra Data Visualization
Optical spectroscopy data can be processed faster and more consistently using programming tools such as Python. This is a step-by-step guide of how researchers process multiple spectra that were taken using the Ossila Optical Spectrometer. The code in this guide is designed for the Ossila Optical Spectrometer.
Read more...
Fluorescence and Phosphorescence
Both fluorescence and phosphorescence are types of photoluminescence. Photoluminescence refers to radiative emissions where the absorbance of a photon is followed by the emission of a lower energy photon. The main empirical difference between fluorescence and phosphorescence is the time in between absorbance and the emission of photons.
Read more...
Thin Film Spectroscopy: Setup and Measurement
This article contains some advice from our researchers that should help you get started taking optical spectroscopy measurements of thin films.
Read more...
Measuring Thin Film Fluorescence
To measure the fluorescence of a thin film, you will need an optical spectrometer, a fixed sample holder and a high energy light source (such as a UV laser or the Ossila UV light source). We also recommend using optical fiber cables between modular elements to reduce the attenuation of your signal.
Read more...
Electroluminescence
Electroluminescence (EL) is the generation of light through the radiative recombination of holes and electrons which have been injected into the material from cathode and anode contacts. The charge carriers are injected into the material due to an applied bias over the cathode and anode. These cathode and anodes are orientated opposite each other.
Read more...
Spectroscopy For Organic Electronics
The different types of spectroscopy can be categorised by either the application it is used for or by type of radiative energy employed. The application of spectroscopic methods in organic (carbon-based) chemistry and organic electronics is known as organic spectroscopy.
Read more...
Absorption Spectroscopy
In absorption spectroscopy, the intensity of light absorbed by a sample is measured as a function of wavelength. This can provide important information about the electronic structure of an atom or molecule.
Read more...
Photoluminescence Spectroscopy
Photoluminescence is luminescence resulting from photoexcitation. In other words, photoluminescence is when a material emits light following the absorption of energy from incident light from another light source.
Read more...
Ossila Optical Spectrometer User Manual
Ossila's USB powered optical spectrometer has been designed to simplify the optical characterisation of thin films, solutions, nanocrystals, photonic structures, and more. A state-of-the-art enclosure combines with powerful electronics to deliver a fast, reliable, and cost-effective device.
Read more...
Software and Drivers
The latest software and drivers for Ossila equipment, available to download for free.
Read more...To the best of our knowledge the information provided here is accurate. The values provided are typical at the time of manufacture and may vary over time and from batch to batch. Products may have minor cosmetic differences (e.g. to the branding) compared to the photos on our website. All products are for laboratory and research and development use only.