Following market studies, Renishaw has added extra features to its inVia Raman microscope, so providing faster, automated Raman spectroscopy.
With increasing pressure on productivity and output, selecting the correct solution for analytical requirements has never been so critical. With this in mind, Renishaw has recently completed a study on the use of research grade Raman spectroscopy systems. The study had two key objectives of maximising productivity, and identifying 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 spectroscopers.
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.
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.
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, rapid switching between viewing modes, and automated system optimisation and validation. Multiple measurements may now be queued on the system, and measurement templates are now included, enabling non-expert users to apply identical experimental conditions many times over.