2: System Description; Introduction; Basic Theory Of Operation - Horiba Scientific FluoroMax-4 Operation Manual

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FluoroMax -4 & FluoroMax -4P with USB rev. D (30 Jul 2012)
2 : System Description

Introduction

A spectrofluorometer is an analytical instrument used to measure and record the fluo-
rescence of a sample. While recording the fluorescence, the excitation, emission, or
both wavelengths may be scanned. With additional accessories, variation of signal with
time, temperature, concentration, polarization, or other variables may be monitored.

Basic theory of operation

A continuous source of light shines onto an excitation monochromator, which selects a
band of wavelengths. This monochromatic excitation light is directed onto a sample,
which emits luminescence. The luminescence is directed into a second, emission
monochromator, which selects a band of wavelengths, and shines them onto a detector.
The signal from the detector is reported to a system controller and host computer,
where the data can be manipulated and presented, using special software.
Warning:
Do not open the instrument without
proper training, appropriate protection, and
having read this operation manual. The in-
strument contains dangerous voltages, ultra-
violet, visible, and infrared radiation, and frag-
ile light-sources. In addition, tampering with
the optical components can irreversibly dam-
age them.
2-1
System Description