Atomic absorption instrument brings high-end capabilities within reach of smaller labs and dramatically simplifies operation and maintenance for reduced cost of ownership
PerkinElmer Life and Analytical Sciences has introduced the Aanalyst 400, a new compact, low-cost, easy-to-use spectrometer designed to measure elements in a wide variety of environmental, chemical, biological or clinical samples.
Based on technologies previously available only in much more sophisticated analytical instruments, the Aanalyst 400 atomic absorption (AA) spectrometer also features a rugged, low-maintenance design appropriate for even the most challenging environments.
"Atomic absorption instruments continue to be especially attractive to small labs and cost-conscious larger labs that need a proven tool for fundamental analytical tasks," said Jon Rennert, vice president and general manager, environmental and chemical analysis, at PerkinElmer.
"The Aanalyst 400 delivers incredible value to these users by bringing together some of our most sophisticated technologies in a compact, affordable and easy-to-use instrument." Lab managers in both small labs and large labs that use multiple AA spectrometers can now stretch their budgets and step up to a much more sophisticated instrument.
For instance, the Aanalyst 400 features a new high-performance nebuliser, true double-beam Echelle optics and a solid-state detector that deliver performance previously not available in an instrument at this price.
The sealed four-lamp optical system increases productivity and can be purged to ensure optimal performance in corrosive or dirty environments. Electronics are contained in a single user-replaceable module that slides into the instrument to reduce repair and upgrade costs.
A built-in EDL power supply makes it easier and less expensive to step up to higher performance, longer-lasting EDL lamp technology.
The new nebuliser that dramatically improves sensitivity is another key enhancement on the Aanalyst 400.
One of the major design goals of the Aanalyst 400 was to produce a compact, easy to maintain spectrometer.
Through the compact Echelle optical system and highly integrated electrical components, the footprint is less than 0.5m2, freeing up valuable bench space.
Despite its compact size, the Aanalyst 400 features a spacious 25cm x 25cm sampling compartment with easy access to the nebuliser and burner heads.
Fully automated gas controls and integrated safety checks ensure the safest AA system available. There are no fittings to tighten, no connections to make and no tools required.
The entire burner and electronics assemblies glide and lock in place.
The instrument continuously monitors itself and should any of the critical components such as the burner, flame ignition, gas pressure, etc become unsafe, the flame is automatically extinguished.
The Aanalyst 400 combines features, flexibility and ease of use to improve productivity by utilising the same WinLab32 for AA software as PerkinElmer's high-end AA instruments.
WinLab32 for AA even has the same look and feel as WinLab32 for the Optima ICP, thereby reducing cross-technique training costs.
An enhanced security version of the WinLab32 software is available to help laboratories comply with a variety of quality protocols and regulations, including 21 CFR Part 11.
For inexperienced or casual users, WinLab32 includes a vast array of Tips of the Day and Tool Tips that explain features or suggest ways to use the software.
The Tips of the Day and Tool Tips are available in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Russian, Japanese and Chinese.
To further automate operation, WinLab32 includes features such as meaningful error messages rather than cryptic codes to simplify troubleshooting and wizards to guide tasks such as report writing.
