Ocean Optics NIRQuest User Manual

Phone

727.733.2447

[e-mail]

(Questions about orders)

Near Infrared Spectrometer

Install ation and Operation Manual

Document Number 016-70000-000-02-201301

Offices:

Ocean Optics, Inc. World Headquarters

830 Douglas Ave., Dunedin, FL, USA 34698

Fax [phone]

8 a.m.– 8 p.m. (Mon-Thu), 8 a.m.– 6 p.m. (Fri) EST

E-mail: [e-mail] (General sales inquiries)

[e-mail] (Technical support)

Additional

Offices:

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Phone

86.21.5206.8686

E-Mail

666 Gubei Road, Kirin Tower, Suite 601B, Changning District, Shanghai,
PRC. 200336

Fax [phone]
E-Mail [e-mail]

Ocean Optics EMEA

Sales and Support Center
Geograaf 24, 6921 EW DUIVEN, The Netherlands

Phone [phone]

Fax [phone]

[e-mail]

Regional Headquarters

Maybachstrasse 11
73760 Ostfildern

Phone [phone]
Fax [phone]
E-Mail [e-mail]

Copyright © 2010 Ocean Optics, Inc.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, by any means, electronic, mechanical,
photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without written permission from Ocean Optics, Inc.
This manual is sold a s part of an order and subject to the condition that it shall not, by way of trade or otherwise, be lent, re-sold, hired out or otherwise
circulated without the prior consent of Ocean Optics, Inc. in any form of bind ing or cover other than that in which it is published.

Trademarks

All products and servic es herein are th e trademark s, service mar ks, registered trademarks or registered service marks of their r espective owners .

Limit of Liability

Every effort has been mad e to make this manual as comp lete and as accurate as possible, but no warranty or fitness is implied. The information provided is
on an “as is” basis. Ocean Optics, Inc. shall have neither liability nor responsibility to any person or entity with respect to any loss or damages arising from
the information contained in this manual.

Table of Contents

About This Manual ......................................................................................................... iii

Document Purpose and Intended Audience .............................................................................. iii

What’s New in this Document ................................................................................................... iii

Document Summary .................................................................................................................. iii

Product-Related Documentation ............................................................................................... iv

Upgrades ....................................................................................................................... iv

Service .......................................................................................................................... iv

Chapter 1: Introduction ..................................................................... 1

Product Description ....................................................................................................... 1

About the Modular Approach ..................................................................................................... 2

Features ........................................................................................................................ 3

Advantages Over NIR Series Spectrometers ................................................................. 4

Interface Options ........................................................................................................... 6

Items Included with Shipment ........................................................................................ 6

Other Accessories Available .......................................................................................... 7

Breakout Box ............................................................................................................................. 7

Chapter 2: Installing the NI RQ ue s t Spect rometer ........................... 9

Overview ....................................................................................................................... 9

NIRQuest Spectrometer Installation............................................................................... 9

USB Mode ................................................................................................................................. 9

Serial Port Mode ........................................................................................................................ 10

Configuring the NIRQuest Spectrometer ....................................................................... 11

Connect Spectroscopic Accessories .............................................................................. 11

External Triggering Options ........................................................................................... 11

NIR Controls .................................................................................................................. 11

SpectraSuite NIRQuest Sp ectrometer Features ....................................................................... 12

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Table of Contents

Chapter 3: Troubleshooting .............................................................. 13

Overview ....................................................................................................................... 13

NIRQuest Spectrometer Connected to Computer Prior to Operating Software .............. 13

Windows Operating Systems .................................................................................................... 13

Remove the Unknown Device from Windows Device Manager ................................................ 14

Remove Improperly Installed Files ............................................................................................ 14

Mac Operating Systems ............................................................................................................ 15

Linux Operating Systems .......................................................................................................... 15

Appendix A: Calibrating the Wavelength of t he NIRQuest

Spectrometer ...................................................................................... 17

About Wavelength Calibration ....................................................................................... 17

Calibrating the Spectrometer ......................................................................................... 17

Preparing for Calibration ............................................................................................................ 17

Calibrating the Wavelength of the Spectrometer ............................................................ 18

Saving the New Calibration Coefficients: USB Mode ..................................................... 20

Appendix B: Specifications ............................................................... 23

How the Spectrometer Works ........................................................................................ 23

NIRQuest Spectrometer Component Table .............................................................................. 24

NIRQuest512 Specific atio n s ..................................................................................................... 25

NIRQuest256 Spectrometer Specifications .................................................................... 28

NIRQuest Spectrometer – Slit Size vs. Resolution and Throughput ............................... 32

NIRQuest Gratings ........................................................................................................ 32

Grating Efficiency Curves .............................................................................................. 34

NIRQuest Optical Resolution for Standard Setups ......................................................... 38

30-Pin Accessory Connector Pinout .............................................................................. 39

30-Pin Accessory Connector Pinout Diagram ........................................................................... 39

30-Pin Accessory Connector – Pin Definitions and Descriptions .............................................. 39

30-Pin J2 Accessory Connector - Part Num ber s....................................................................... 41

NIRQuest 15-Pin Accessory Cable Pinout ..................................................................... 42

Appendix C: NIRQuest512-2.5 and NIRQuest256-2.5 Sensitivity ... 43

Index ................................................................................................... 45

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About This Manual

Document Purpose and Intended Audience

This document provides you with instructions to get your system up and running. In addition to the
NIRQuest Spectrometer installation and operation instructions, this manual also includes information for
locating the SpectraSuite installation instruc t io ns (s e e Product-Related Documentation

What’s New in this Document

This version of the NIRQuest Near Infrared Fiber Optics Spectrometers Installation and Operation

Manual clarifies the installation procedure.

Document Summary

below).

Chapter Description

Chapter 1: Introduction

Chapter 2: Installing the NIRQuest

Spectrometer

Chapter 3: Troubleshooting

Appendix A: Calibrating the Wavelength of

the NIRQuest Spectrometer

Appendix B: Specifications

Appendix C: NIRQuest512-2.5 and

NIRQuest256-2.5 Sensitivity

Introduces the product features. Also contains a list
of items included in the shipment.

Contains information for installing and configuring
your NIRQuest Spectrometer. These instructions
include information on using your NIRQuest
Spectrometer with the spectrometer operating
software.

Contains typical problems and suggested
resolutions.

Contains instructions for calibrating your NIRQuest
Spectrometer.

Contains technical specifications for the NIRQuest
Spectrometer and the NIR Detector. It also includes
grating efficiency graphs and pinout information.

Provides some additional sensitivity specifications
for the NIRQuest256-2.5 and NIRQuest512-2.5
Spectrometer.

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1: Introduction

Product-Related Documentation

You can access documentation for Ocean Optics products by visiting our website at

http://www.oceanoptics.com

document from the available drop-down lists. Or, use the Search by Model Number field at the bottom
of the web page.

• Detailed instructions for SpectraSuite Spectrometer Operating Software are located at:

http://www.oceanoptics.com/technical/SpectraSuite.pdf

• Detailed instructions for External Triggering for firmware versions below 3.0 are located at:

http://www.oceanoptics.com/technical/external-triggering.pdf

• Detailed instructions for External Triggering for firmware versions 3.0 and above are located at:

http://www.oceanoptics.com/technical/external-triggering2.pdf

You can also access operating instructions for Ocean Optics products on the Software and Technical
Resources CD included with the system.

Engineering-level documentation is located on our website at Technical → Engineering Docs.

. Select Technical → Operating Instructions, then choose the appropriate

.

.

.

Upgrades

Occasionally, you may find that you need Ocean Optics to make a change or an upgrade to your system.
To facilitate these changes, you must first contact Customer Support and obtain a Return Merchandise
Authorization (RMA) number. Please contact Ocean Optics for specific instructions when returning a
product.

Service

Our Total Technical Service protection plans protect your spectrometer for one year for any contingency -

- no matter what the circumstances, including total loss. Under these plans, Ocean Optics will repair or
replace your instrument with no deductible or any other out-of-pocket expense required from you.
NIRQuest service plans include the following:

• TTS-NIR: Protects your Ocean Optics NIR spectrometer for any contingency for 1 year.

Provides for full spectrometer replacement, if necessary. Limited to 1 full replacement per year.

• TTS-NIR-E: This special plan for Ocean Optics NIR spectrometers not previously covered

protects for any contingency for 1 year. Provides for full spectrometer replacement, if necessary.
Limited to 1 full replacement per year. This coverage starts 30 days after purchasing the plan.

iv 016-700000-000-02-201301

Chapter 1

Introduction

Product Description

A high-performance optical bench, low-noise electronics and various grating options make NIRQuest
Spectrometers truly extraordinary. This new generation of small-footprint, near infrared spectrometers is
available in four models that cover various ranges between 900 nm and 2500 nm and are ideal for
applications ranging from analyzing moisture content in food and beverage products to analyzing trace
metals in wastewater. In addition to improved optical bench performance, NIRQuest Spectrometers are
available with more grating options than our previous NIR Spectrometers. This enables you to take
advantage of the different grating characteristics to maximize experiment setups. The High Gain Mode
option improves sensitivity (5x) for low light-level applications and low concentration absorption
applications (not recommended for NIRQuest512-2.2 and NIRQuest512-2.5). See

Series Spectrometers for more inform a tion.

Advantages Over NIR

Note

High Gain Mode is not recommended for NIRQuest512-2.2 and NIRQuest512-2.5
spectrometers, but can be used. An additional 30 minute warm-up time is necessary to
stabilize the detector response.

The NIRQuest (Near Infrared) Fiber Optic Spectrometer combines the high-performance InGaAs array
detector with the high-sensitivity NIRQuest optical bench. The NIRQuest Spectrometer and the 16-bit
A/D converter share a single housing, forming a small-footprint plug-and-play system.

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1: Introduction

The NIRQuest Spectrometer can connect via the USB port to any PC that uses a Windows Me/2000/XP
operating system and has spectrometer operat ing soft ware installed and configured for use with your
NIRQuest Spectrometer. Furthermore, the NIRQuest Spectrometer has a serial port for interfacing to PCs,
PLCs, and other devices that support the RS-232 communication protocol.

An EEPROM memory chip in each NIRQuest Spectrometer contains wavelength calibration coefficients,
linearity coefficients, and the serial number unique to each spectrometer. Ocean Optics SpectraSuite
spectrometer operating software reads these values from the spectrometer, which allows “hot-swapping”
of spectrometers among multiple PCs.

As with all other Ocean Optics user-configured spectrometers, you can choose from six slit sizes and
hundreds of fiber optic accessories (such as light sources, probes, and optical fibers) to create the system
just right for your application.

NIRQuest can be used with a Wireless Spectral Server to capture spectral data wirelessly or via Ethernet.

About the Modular Approach

Ocean Optics fiber optic spectrometer systems are based on low-cost, modular data acquisition principles.
A typical NIRQuest Spectrometer system contains four basic elements:

• The NIRQuest Spectrometer (see NIRQuest Spectrometer Models

• The Ocean Optics SpectraSuite spectrometer operating software (see

• Software)

• A light (excitation source) (see Accessories

• A variety of sampling optics (depending on application need) (see Accessories)

The light (excitation source) sends light through an optical fiber to the sample. The light interacts with the
sample, and the results are collected and transmitted through another optical fiber to the spectrometer.
The spectrometer measures the amount of light and transforms the data collected by the spectrometer into
digital information. Finally, the spectrometer passes that information to the operating software.

)

)

NIRQuest Spectrometer Models

The NIRQuest family of spectrometers consists of the following models:

• NIRQuest512 with a detector range of 850 – 1700 nm ; usable range of 900 – 2700 nm

• NIRQuest512-1.9 with a detector range of 1000 – 1900 nm; usable range 1100 – 1900 nm

• NIRQuest512-2.2 with a detector range 900 – 2200 nm; usable range of 900 – 2200 nm

• NIRQuest512-2.5 with a detector range 900 – 2550 nm; usable range of 900 – 2500 nm

• NIRQuest256-2.1 with a detector range of 900 – 2100 nm; usable range of 900 – 2050 nm

• NIRQuest256-2.5 with a detector range of 900 – 2550 nm; usable range of 900 – 2500 nm

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1: Introduction

Software

SpectraSuite is the latest generation of operating software for all Ocean Optics spectrometers. It is a
completely modular, Java-based spectroscopy software platform that operates on Windows, Macintosh
and Linux operating systems. The software can control any Ocean Optics USB spectrometer and device,
as well as any other manufacturer’s USB instrumentation using the appropriate drivers.

SpectraSuite is a user-customizable, advanced acquisition and display program that provides a real-time
interface to a variety of signal-processing functions. With SpectraSuite, you have the ability to perform
spectroscopic measurements (such as absorbance, reflectance, and emission), control all system
parameters, collect and display data in real time, and perform reference monitoring and time acquisition
experiments. Consult the SpectraSuite manual for hardware requirements when using SpectraSuite (see

Product-Related Documentation

).

Accessories

Ocean Optics also offers a complete line of spectroscopic accessories to use with the NIRQuest
Spectrometer. Most spectroscopic accessories have SMA connectors for application flexibility. Thus,
changing the sampling system is as easy as unscrewing a connector and adding a new component or
accessory. A partial list of Ocean Optics spectroscopic accessories includes light sources, sampling
holders, filter holders, flow cells, fiber optic probes and sensors, collimating lenses, attenuators, diffuse
reflectance standards, integrating spheres and an extensive line of optical fibers.

This modular approach, where components are easily mixed and matched, offers remarkable applications
flexibility. You can select from hundreds of products to create distinctive systems for an almost endless
variety of optical-sensing applications.

Breakout Box

Ocean Optics also offers the Breakout Box (HR4-BREAKOUT), a passive module that separates the
signals from their 30-pin port to an array of standard connectors and headers, enabling easy access to a
variety of features found in Ocean Optics’ NIRQuest Spectrometer. In addition to the accessory
connector, the breakout box features a circuit board based on a neutral breadboard pattern that allows
custom circuitry to be prototyped on the board itself.

Features

• Hamamatsu G9204-512 (NIRQuest512), G9205-512 (NIRQUEST512-1.9), G9206-512W

(NIRQuest512-2.2), G9208-512W (NIRQuest512-2.5), G9206-256 (NIRQuest256-2.1), G9208­256 (NIRQuest256-2.5) InGaAs linear array detector

• Wide dynamic range

• Low noise and low dark current

• Spectrometer Design

• Symmetrical Crossed Czerny Turner

• 101mm focal length

• 4 gratings (model-dependent)

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1: Introduction

• 6 slit widths

• Electrical Performance

• 16 bit, 500KHz A/D converter

• Integration times from 1 ms to 120 seconds (depending on spectrometer model)

• Embedded microcontroller allows programmatic control of all operating parameters and

standalone operation

• USB 2.0 480Mbps

• RS232 (2-wire) 115Kbaud

• Multiple communication standards for digital accessories (SPI, I2C)

• Onboard Pulse Generator

• 3 programmable strobe signals for triggering other devices

• Software control of nearly all pulse parameters

• Onboard GPIO

• 10 user-programmable digital I/Os

• EEPROM storage for

• Wavelength Calibration Coefficients

• Linearity Correction Coefficients

• Absolute Irradiance Calibration (optional)

• Plug-n-play interface for PC applications

• 30-pin connector for interfacing to external products

• CE certification

Advantages Over NIR Series Spectrometer s

The NIRQuest Spectrometers offer a high-performance optical bench with low-noise electronics and more
gratings than have been available in the past. The following list of improved features shows how the
NIRQuest offers improved functionality over our previous NIR Spectrometers at a lower cost to you..

• 20 % Higher Throughput. Higher throughput means higher sensitivity and shorter integration

times needed. The chart below compares spectra from the NIR512 with the NIRQuest 512.

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1: Introduction

• 2 to 3 Times Better Noise Performance. This permits integration for longer periods of time and

detection of smaller changes in absorbance. The charts below show 3x noise improvement for the
NIRQuest512 over the NIR512 at a 10-second integ ration time.

• Considerably Better Signal-to-Noise Ratio (now >15000:1 at 100 ms). This allows better

detection in low light levels, use of a smaller slit size (provides higher optical resolution without
sacrificing throughput), and simpler measurement of higher concentration samples.

• True External Trigger with a fixed 1-ms delay after an external event before integration begins.

• Thermoelectric Cooler stabilizes after 1 minute in the NIRQuest 512 vs. 2 minutes in the NIR512.

• More Grating Options are provided (up to 6) to better optimize your application setup.

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1: Introduction

Operating System

Interface Options

The NIRQuest Spectrometer has both USB and serial port connectors (with the use of an adapter),
enabling you to connect the spectrometer to a desktop or notebook computer via a USB port or serial port.
However, you must create custom software if using the serial port. SpectraSuite software is available if
you are connecting via the USB port.

Computer Interface

Desktop or
Notebook PC via
USB Port

Desktop or
Notebook PC via
Serial Port

Requirements

Windows Me/
2000/XP

Any 32-bit Windows
operating system

Cable Needed Description of Cable

USB-CBL-1
(included)

HR4­BREAKOUT
(not included)

Cable connects from USB port on
NIRQuest Spectrometer to USB port on
desktop or notebook PC

Adapter block that enables connection
from serial port on NIRQuest to serial
port on desktop or notebook PC; comes
with 5 VDC power supply (required
when connecting to serial port)

Items Included with Shipment

 NIRQuest Spectrometer
 + 5VDC power supply

Important information and documentation accompany your NIRQuest Spectrometer upon shipment. This
includes:

 Packing List – The packing list is located inside a plastic bag attached to the outside of the

shipment box (the invoice is mailed separately). The items listed on the packing slip include all of
the components in the order, including customized items installed in the spectrometer, such as the
slit. The packing list also includes important information, such as the shipping and billing
addresses, as well as any components on back order.

6 016-700000-000-02-201301

 Wavelength Calibration Data Sheet – Each spectrometer is shipped with a Wavelength

Calibration Data Sheet that contains information unique to your spectrometer. SpectraSuite
Operating Software reads this calibration data from your spectrometer when it interfaces to a PC
via the USB port.

Note

Please save the Wavelength Calibration Data Sheet for future reference.

 15-Pin Accessory Cable (se e NIRQuest 15-Pin Accessory Cable Pinout)
 Software and Resources Library CD – Each spectrometer order comes with Ocean Optics’

Software and Resources Library CD. This disc contains all Ocean Optics software and manuals
for software operation, spectrometers, and spectroscopic accessories. Documentation is provided
in Portable Document Format (PDF). You need Adobe Acrobat Reader version 6.0 or higher to
view these files. Adobe Acrobat Reader is included on the CD.

1: Introduction

Passwords for software applications can be found on the back of the Software and Resources
Library CD package.

Other Accessories Available

Visit us at www.OceanOptics.com for a complete list of products available for all of your spectroscopy
needs.

 Fibers
 Light Sources
 Integrated Sampling Systems
 Cuvettes
 Filter Holders
 Lithium Ion Battery Pack
 HR4-BREAKOUT Breakout Box
 Remora Wireless Spectral Server

Breakout Box

Ocean Optics also offers the Breakout Box (HR4-BREAKOUT), a passive module that separates the
signals from their 30-pin port to an array of standard connectors and headers, enabling easy access to a
variety of features found in Ocean Optics’ NIRQuest Spectrometers. In addition to the accessory
connector, the breakout box features a circuit board based on a neutral breadboard pattern that allows
custom circuitry to be prototyped on the board itself.

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1: Introduction

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8 016-700000-000-02-201301

Chapter 2

Installing the NIRQuest

Spectrometer

Overview

You must install the operating software application prior to connecting the NIRQuest Spec tro meter to the
PC. The Ocean Optics spectrometer operating software installs the drivers require d for NIRQuest
Spectrometer installation. If you do not install the software first, the system will not properly recognize
the NIRQuest Spectrometer.

If you have already connected the NIRQuest Spectrometer to the PC prior to installing the software,
consult Chapter 3: Troubleshooting
installation.

Once you have properly installed the spectrometer, refer to either the SpectraSuite operating instructions
for information on taking measurements.

for information on correcting a corrupt NIRQuest Spectrometer

NIRQuest Spectrometer Installation

This section contains instructions for connecting the NIRQuest Spectrometer via both USB and serial
modes.

Caution

Ensure that TEC power is always applied (using SpectraSuite software) before USB
power.

USB Mode

Follow the steps in this section to interface the NIRQuest Spectrometer via the USB port to a desktop or
notebook PC.

To connect the NIRQuest Spectrometer to a PC via the USB port, the PC must be running the Windows
ME/2000/XP operating system.

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3:Troubleshooting

► Procedure

1. Install spectrometer operating software on the destinati on computer, and then reboot the

system.

2. Plug the +5VDC wall adapter into an electrical outlet, then connect the power cord to the

2.5 mm power jack (older versions may have a 1.3 mm power jack) on the rear of the
NIRQuest Spectrometer.

3. Locate the USB cable (USB-CBL-1) that came with the NIRQuest Spectrometer.

4. Insert the square end of the cable into the rear of the NIRQuest Spectrometer, and then

insert the recta ngular end into the USB port of the computer.

If the software was installed prior to connecting the NIRQuest Spectrometer, the Add New Hardware
Wizard appears and installs the NIRQuest Spectrometer drivers. If the drivers do not successfully install,
or if you connected the NIRQuest Spectrometer to the computer before installing the software, consult
Chapter 4: Troubleshooting

.

Note

Windows XP users may encounter a Hardware Installation w arning window regarding
Windows XP driver testing. Click the Continue Installation button at this screen, as this
is an expected warning.

Serial Port Mode

To use the serial port capacity of the NIRQuest Spectrometer, the PC must be running a 32-bit version of
the Windows operating system.

►

Procedure

Follow the steps below to connect the NIRQuest Spectrometer to the PC via serial port:

1. Plug the +5VDC wall adapter into an electrical outlet, then connect the power cord to the 2.5 mm
power jack (older versions may have a 1.3 mm power jack) on the rear of the NIRQuest
Spectrometer.

2. Connect one end of the serial cable to the RS-232 connector on the rear of the NIRQuest
Spectrometer, and then connect the other end to a serial port on the PC.

3. Note the serial port number (also called COM Port) on the PC to which the NIRQuest
Spectrometer is connected (some PCs may not have numbered ports).

The NIRQuest Spectrometer is now connected to the PC’s serial port.

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3: Troubleshooting

Configuring the NIRQuest Spectrometer

If you have followed the previous steps for connecting NIRQuest in USB mode and started SpectraSuite,
the spectrometer is already acquiring data. Even with no light in the spectrometer, there should be a
dynamic trace displayed in the bottom of the graph. If you allow light into the spectrometer, the graph
trace should rise with increasing light intensity. This means the software and hardware are correctly
installed.

Note the spectrometer(s) that you have installed are listed in the Data Sources pane.

Connect Spectroscopic Accessories

To find operating instructions on NIRQuest Spectrometer-compatible products such as light sources,
sampling chambers, probes, fibers or any other Ocean Optics spectroscopic accessories, check the
Software and Technical Resources CD or the Ocean Optics website at:

http://www.oceanoptics.com/Technical/OperatingInstructions.asp.

Chapter 1: Introduction contains a list of NIRQuest Spectrometer-compatible products. You can find
information related to these products on http://www.oceanoptics.com/.

External Triggering Options

You can trigger the NIRQuest Spectrometer using the External Software Triggering option through the
30-pin accessory connector on the spectrometer. Only the External Software Trigger mode is available
with the NIRQuest Spectrometer.

The External Triggering Options document contains instructions on configuring External Triggering with
the NIRQuest Spectrometer. The External Triggering Options document is located at the following web
site:

http://www.oceanoptics.com/technical/externaltriggering.PDF

If you do not have web access, you can retrieve this document from the Software and Technical
Resources CD included with your spectrometer shipment.

NIR Controls

There are a number of controls for the NIRQuest Spectrometer that are available through the spectrometer
operating software. The software differs as to where these controls are located.

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3:Troubleshooting

SpectraSuite NIRQuest Spectrometer Features

Select Spectrometer | Spectrometer Features, then select th e TEC ta b to d isplay the NIRQuest
Spectrometer controls.

Control Description

Enable Fan Check this box to turn on the cooling fan.
Enable Thermo-

Electric Control

Detector Set Point Enter the target temperature of the NIRQuest Spectrometer detector as follows:

Check this box to enable (recommended setting for laboratory conditions) or
uncheck to disable the thermoelectric cooler. Be sure to always turn on TEC
power before applying USB power.

• NIRQuest512: Minimum is up to 30 ºC below ambient, Recommended is

–5 ºC

• NIRQuest256, NIRQuest512-2.2 and NIRQuest512-2.5: Minimum is up to

45 ºC below ambient, Recommended is –20 ºC

The TEC and fans will operate until the detector reaches this temperature.

Detector
temperature

Enable Periodic
Update

Displays the current temperature of the detector in the NIRQuest Spectrometer.

Check this box to enable periodic update of the NIR detector temperature

controls.
Update Interval If you enabled periodic updates, enter the interval period (in seconds).
Show in Status Bar Check this box to display the detector temperature in the status bar.

12 016-700000-000-02-201301

Chapter 3

Troubleshooting

Overview

The following sections contain information on troubleshooting issues you may encounter when using the
NIR Spectrometer.

NIRQuest Spectrometer Connected to Computer Prior to Operating Software

Windows Operating Systems

If you connected your NIRQuest Spectrometer to the computer prior to installing your Ocean Optics
software application, you may encounter installation issues that you must correct before your Ocean
Optics device will operate properly.

Follow the applicable steps below to remove the incorrectly installed device, device driver, and
installation files.

Note

If these procedures do not correct your device driver problem, you must obtain the

Correcting Device Driver Issues document from the Ocean Optics website:

http://www.oceanoptics.com/technical/engineering/correctingdevicedriverissues.pdf

.

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3:Troubleshooting

Remove the Unknown Device from Windows Device Manager

► Procedure

1. Open Windows Device Manager. Consult the Windows operating instructions for your computer

for directions, if needed.

2. Locate the Other Devices option and expand the Other Devices selection by clicking on the "+"

sign to the imme diate le ft.

Note

Improperly installed USB devices can also appear under the Universal Serial Bus
Controller option. Be sure to check this location if you cannot locate the unknown device.

3. Locate the unknown device (marked with a large question mark). Right-click on the Unknown

Device listing and select the Uninstall or Remove option.

4. Click the OK button to continue. A warning box appears confirming the removal of the Unknown

Device. Click the OK button to confirm the device removal.

5. Disconnect the NIRQuest Spectrometer from your computer.

6. Locate the section in this chapter that is appropriate to your operating system and perform the

steps in the following Remove Improperly Installed Files

section.

Remove Improperly Installed Files

► Procedure

1. Open Windows Explorer.

2. Navigate to the Windows | INF directory.

Note

If the INF directory is not visible, you must disable the Hide System Files and Folders
and Hide File Extensions for Known File Types options in Windows Folder Options.
Access Windows Folder Options from Windows Explorer, under the Tools | Folder
Options menu selection.

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3: Troubleshooting

3. Delete the OOI_USB.INF in the INF directory. If your computer is running either the Windows
2000 or XP operating system, you must also delete the OOI_USB.PNF file in the INF directory.

4. Navigate to the Windows | System32 | Drivers directory.

5. Delete the EZUSB.SYS file.

6. Reinstall your Ocean Optics application and reboot the system when prompted.

7. Plug in the USB device.

The system is now able to locate and install the correct drivers for the USB device.

Mac Operating Systems

Since there are no device files for the NIRQuest Spectrometer in a Mac operating system, you should not
encounter any problems if you installed the spectrometer before the SpectraSuite software.

Linux Operating Systems

For Linux operating systems, all you need to do is install the SpectraSuite software, then unplug and
replug in the spectrometer. Technically, the driver files for Linux simply give nonprivileged users
permission to use newly connected hardware. There isn’t any long-term harm to plugging in the device
before installing the software.

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Appendix A

Calibrating the Wavelength of

the NIRQuest Spectrometer

This Appendix describes how to calibrate the wavelength of your spectrometer. Though each
spectrometer is calibrated before it leaves Ocean Optics, the wavelength for all spectrometers will drift
slightly as a function of time and environmental conditions.

About Wavelength Calibration

You are going to be solving the following equation, which shows that the relationship between pixel
number and wavelength is a third-order polynom ial:

λ

= I + C1 p + C2 p2 + C3 p

p

Where:

λ

= the wavelength of pixel p

I = the wavelength of pixel 0

= the first coefficient (nm/pixel)

C

1

C

= the second coefficient (nm/pixel2)

2

= the third coefficient (nm/pixel3)

C

3

You will be calculating the value for I and the three Cs.

3

Calibrating the Spectrometer

Preparing for Calibration

To recalibrate the wavelength of your spectrometer, you will need the following:

016-700000-000-02-201301 17

A: Calibrating the Wavelength of the Spectrometer

• A light source capable of producing spectral lines.
Ocean Optics’ AR-1 Argon lamp or HG-1 Mercury-Argon lamp are ideal for this purpose. If you

do not have an AR-1 or HG-1, you will need a spectral line source that produces several (at least
4-6) spectral lines in the wavelength region of your spectrometer.

If an order-sorting filter is installed in the NIRQuest, the XE-1 Xenon lamp is necessary to
perform the wavelength calibration.

• The NIRQuest Spectrometer.

• An optical fiber (for spectrometers without a built-in slit, a 50-

• A spreadsheet program (Excel or Quattro Pro, for example) or a calculator that performs third-

order linear regressions.

• If you are using Microsoft Excel, choose Tools | Add-Ins and check AnalysisToolPak and
AnalysisTookPak-VBA.

µm fiber works best).

Calibrating the Wavelength of the Spectr om eter

► Procedure

Perform the steps below to calibrate the wavelength of the spectrometer:

1. Place SpectraSuite into Scope mode and take a spectrum of your light source. Adjust the
integration time (or the A/D conversion frequency) until there are several peaks on the screen that
are not off-scale.

2. Move the cursor to one of the peaks and position the cursor so that it is at the point of maximum
intensity.

3. Record the pixel number that is displayed in the status bar or legend (located beneath the graph).
Repeat this step for all of the peaks in your spectrum.

4. Use the spreadsheet program or calculator to create a table like the one shown in the following
figure. In the first column, place the exact or true wavelength of the spectral lines that you used.

In the second column of this worksheet, place the observed pixel number. In the third column,
calculate the pixel number squared, and in the fourth column, calculate the pixel number cubed.

18 016-700000-000-02-201301

A: Calibrating the Wavelength of the NIR Spectrometer

Independent Dependent Values computed from
Variable Variables the regression output

True Wavelength (nm) Pixel # Pixel # 2 Pixel # 3

253.65

296.73

302.15

313.16

334.15

365.02

404.66

407.78

435.84

546.07

576.96

579.07

696.54

706.72

727.29

738.40

751.47

175
296
312
342
402
490
604
613

694
1022
1116
1122
1491
1523
1590
1627
1669

30625
87616

97344
116964
161604
240100
364816
375769
481636

1044484
1245456
1258884
2223081
2319529
2528100
2647129
2785561

5359375
25934336
30371328
40001688
64964808

117649000
220348864
230346397

334255384
1067462648
1389928896
1412467848
3314613771
3532642667
4019679000
4306878883
4649101309

Predicted

Wavelength

253.56

296.72

302.40

313.02

334.19

365.05

404.67

407.78

435.65

546.13

577.05

579.01

696.70

706.62

727.24

738.53

751.27

Difference

0.09

0.01

-0.25

0.13

-0.05

-0.04

-0.01

0.00

0.19

-0.06

-0.09

0.06

-0.15

0.10

0.06

-0.13

0.19

5. Use your spreadsheet or calculator to calculate the wavelength calibration coefficients. In your
spreadsheet program, find the functions to perform linear regressions.

• If using Quattro Pro, look under Tools | Advanced Math

• If using Excel, look under Analysis ToolPak

6. Select the true wavelength as the dependent variable (Y). Select the pixel number, pixel number
squared, and the pixel number cubed as the independent variables (X). After you execute the
regression, an output similar to the one shown below is obtained.

Regression Statistics

Multiple R 0.999999831
R Square 0.999999663

R Square d

Adjusted R Square 0.999999607
Standard Error 0.125540214
Observations 22

intercept

Coefficients Standard Error

Intercept 190.473993 0.369047536 first coefficient
X Variable 1 0.36263983 0.001684745
X Variable 2 -1.174416E-05 8.35279E-07
X Variable 3 -2.523787E-09 2.656608E-10

third coefficient

The numbers of importance are indicated in the above figure.

second coefficient

016-700000-000-02-201301 19

A: Calibrating the Wavelength of the Spectrometer

7. Record the Intercept as well as the First, Second, and Third Coefficients. Also, look at the value
for R squared. It should be very close to one. If it is not, you have probably assigned one of your
wavelengths incorrectly. Keep these values at hand.

Saving the New Calibration Coefficients: USB Mode

Wavelength calibration coe ffici ent s unique to each NIRQuest Spectrometer are programmed into an
EEPROM memory chip on the NIRQuest Spectrometer.

You can save over old calibration coefficients with new ones and the spectrometer operating software can
read these coefficients, but only if you are using the NIRQuest Spectrometer via the USB port.

►

Procedure

To Save Wavelength Calibration Coefficients Using the USB Mode:

1. Ensure that the NIRQuest Spectrometer is connected to the PC and that no other applications are
running.

2. Point your browser to http://www.oceanoptics.com/technical/softwaredownloads.asp and scroll
down to Microcode. Double-click on US B EEPRO M Pro gra mm er.

3. Save the setup file to your computer.

4. Run the Setup.exe file to install the so f tw ar e

5. At the Welcome screen, click the Next button.

6. At the Destination Location screen, accept the default or click the Browse button to pick a
directory. Then, click the Next button.

7. Select a Program Manager Group and click the Next button. The Start Installation screen appears.
Click the Next button.

8. Click the Finish button when the Installation Complete screen appears.

9. Reboot the computer when prompted.

10. Navigate to USB EEPROM Programmer and open the software.

11. Click on the NIRQuest Spectrometer device, located in the left pane of the USB Programmer
screen.

12. Double-click on each of the calibration coefficients displayed in the right pane of the USB
Programmer screen and enter the new values acquired in Steps 5 and 6 of the

Wavelength of the Spectrometer section in this Appendix.

20 016-700000-000-02-201301

Calibrating the

A: Calibrating the Wavelength of the NIR Spectrometer

12. Repeat Step 12 for all of the new values.

13. Click on the Save All Values button to save the information, and then Exit the USB Programmer
software.

The new wavelength calibration coefficients are now loaded onto the EEPROM memory chip on the
NIRQuest Spectrometer.

016-700000-000-02-201301 21

A: Calibrating the Wavelength of the Spectrometer

THIS PAGE INTENIONALLY LEFT BLANK

22 016-700000-000-02-201301

Appendix B

Specifications

How the Spectrometer Works

Light passes through the NIRQuest Spectrometer through a fixed optical path. The optical bench of the
NIRQuest Spectrometer has no moving parts that can wear or break; all the components are fixed in place
at the time of manufacture.

NIRQuest Spectrometer with Components

016-700000-000-02-201301 23

B: Specifications

NIRQuest Spectrometer Component Table

The following table describes each component in the NIRQuest Spectrometer. Items marked with an
asterisk (*) can be user-specified (consult an Applications Scientist for more information).

1

2 Slit

3 Filter

4

5 Grating

SMA
Connector

Collimating
Mirror

Secures the input fiber to the spectrometer. Light from the input fiber enters the
optical bench through this connector.

A dark piece of material containing a rectangular aperture, which is mounted directly
behind the SMA Connector. The size of the aperture regulates the amount of light
that enters the optical bench and controls spectral resolution.

You can also use the NIRQuest without a Slit. In this configuration, the diameter of
the fiber connected to the NIRQuest determines the size of the entrance aperture.

Only Ocean Optics technicians can change the Slit.
Restricts optical radiation to pre-determined wavelength regions. Light pas s es

through the Filter before entering the optical bench. Both bandpass and longpass
filters are available to restrict radiation to certain wavelength regions.

Only Ocean Optics technicians can change the Filter.
Focuses light entering the optical bench towards the Grating of the spectrometer.
Light enters the spectrometer, passes through the SMA Connector, Slit, and Filter,

and then reflects off the Collimating Mirror onto the Grating.
Diffracts light from the Collimating Mirror and directs the diffracted light onto the

Focusing Mirror. Gratings are available in different groove densities, allowing you to
specify wavelength coverage and resolution in the spectrometer.

Only Ocean Optics technicians can change the Grating.
Receives light reflected from the Grating and focuses the light onto the CCD

Detector or L2 Detector Collection Lens (depending on the spectrometer
configuration).

Each pixel on the detector responds to the wavelength of light that strikes it.
Electronics bring the complete spectrum to the software.

6

7

Focusing
Mirror

InGaAs
Detector

24 016-700000-000-02-201301

B: Specifications

NIRQuest512 Specifications

NIRQuest512 NIRQuest512-1.9 NIRQuest512-2.2 NIRQuest512-2.5

PHYSICAL

Dimensions (mm): 182 x 110 x 47
Weight (kg): 1.18 (w/o power supply)

DETECTOR

Detector:

Detector range:

(According to
Hamamatsu)

Useable range1: 900-1700 nm 1000-1900 nm 900-2200 nm 900-2500 nm
Pixels: 512
Pixel size: 25 µm x 500 µm 25 µm x 250 µm
Saturation

charge:
Defective pixels: 0 pixels <20 pixels

OPTICAL BENCH

Design:

Hamamatsu
G9204-512 InGaAs
linear array

900-1700 nm 900-1850 nm 900-2050 nm 900-2550 nm

Hamamatsu
G9205-512 InGaAs
linear array

30 pC (~188 Me- electrons)

f/4, symmetrical crossed Czerny-Turner

Hamamatsu G9206­512W InGaAs linear
array

Hamamatsu G9208­512W InGaAs linear
array

Entrance
aperture
(standard):

Entrance
aperture (custom
options):

Grating options
(standard):

Grating options
(custom)

2

:

016-700000-000-02-201301 25

Grating NIR3, 150
l/mm, 900-1700 nm

NIR10, NIR11, NIR12, NIR13 and NIR14 NIR2, NIR3, NIR10, NIR11, NIR12 and NIR13

10 µm, 50 µm, 100 µm and 200 µm (or no slit)

Grating NIR3, 100
l/mm, 150 l/mm,
900-1700 nm

25 µm

Grating NIR2, 100
l/mm, 900-2050 nm

Grating NIR1, 75 l/mm,
1075-2500 nm

B: Specifications

NIRQuest512 NIRQuest512-1.9 NIRQuest512-2.2 NIRQuest512-2.5

Longpass filter3: OF1-RG830

longpass NIR filter
(optional)

OF1-CGA1000
longpass NIR filter
(standard)

OF1-RG830 longpass NIR filter (optional)

2nd Order filter3: N/A Standard
Collimating and

Gold-coated for enhanced NIR reflectivity

focusing mirrors:
Fiber optic

SMA 905 to 0.22 numerical aperture single-strand optical fiber

connector:

SPECTROSCOPIC

Wavelength
range:

Optical resolution
(FWHM)

4

:

Signal-to-noise
ratio at full

5

:

signal

900-1700 nm
w/Grating NIR3

1100-1900nm
w/Grating NIR3

900-2200nm
w/Grating NIR2

~3.1 nm w/25 µm slit ~5 nm w/25 µm slit ~0.25 nm -- ~25 nm

>15000:1 @
100 ms integration

>8000:1 @ 100ms
integration

10000:1 @ 100 ms integration

>13000:1 @ 1000 ms integration

900-2500nm w/Grating
NIR1

A/D resolution: 16-bit

6 RMS counts @ 100 ms 16 RMS counts@

10ms

Dark noise:

Dynamic range:

12 RMS counts @
1000 ms

15 x 106 (system);
15K:1 for a single
acquisition

12 RMS counts @ 250 ms 24 RMS counts@

30ms

5

(system); 7500:1

1 x 10
for a single acquisition

7.5 x 10

6

(system); 10K:1 for a single

acquisition

Integration time6: 1 ms – 120 s 1 ms – 2 s 1 ms – 1 s 1 ms – 30 ms
Corrected

>99.8% >99.6%

linearity:
Estimated Peak

0.5 pW 10 pW 10 pW 100 pW
Noise Equivalent
Power (NEP)
(default
configuration)

26 016-700000-000-02-201301

B: Specifications

NIRQuest512 NIRQuest512-1.9 NIRQuest512-2.2 NIRQuest512-2.5

ELECTRONICS

Power

USB power +5V, 0.5 A maximum; DC input jack +5V, 3 A maximum

consumption
Data transfer

Full scan to memory every 5 ms with USB 2.0 port

speed:
Inputs/ Outputs: External trigger input + single strobe output
Breakout box

Yes

compatibility:
Trigger modes: 2 modes (Normal/Free Run + 1-ms External Hardware Trigger)
Strobe functions: Yes
Gated delay: Yes, with external hardware trigger delay
Connector: 30-pin connector

TEMPERATURE & THERMOELECTRIC COOLING

Temperature

10-35 ºC (0-90% non-condensing)
limits
(environmental):

TEC set point
(software
controlled):

Control at -5ºC (up
to 30ºC below
ambient)

Control at -20 ºC (up to 45 ºC below ambient)

TEC stability: +/-0.5 ºC of set temperature in <1 minute; typical long-term stability +/-0.1 ºC

COMPUTER

Operating
systems:

Computer

Windows 2000/XP and Vista (32-bit only); Mac OS X and Linux w/USB port; any 32-bit
Windows OS with serial port

USB 2.0 @ 480 Mbps; RS-232 (2-wire) @ 115.2 K baud (custom configuration)

interfaces:
Peripheral

I2C inter-integrated circuit; SPI (3-wire)

interfaces:

WIRELESS/ETHERNET INTERFACE (optional add-on accessory)

Wireless (Wi-Fi)

Yes, with adapter

interface:

016-700000-000-02-201301 27

B: Specifications

NIRQuest512 NIRQuest512-1.9 NIRQuest512-2.2 NIRQuest512-2.5

Wired Ethernet

Yes, with adapter

interface:
Wi-Fi range: 25 meters in free space
Web server: Works with common browsers

1

“Useable range” is defined in the context of the NIRQuest model’s detector response and its typical grating response. For example,
the 512-element detector has response at 850 nm, but grating response begins at 900 nm. The G9206 256-element detector
response is sensitive to TEC temperature, and has response only to 2050 nm when the TEC is set to -20 ºC. The G9208 256­element and 512-element detector has response to 2550 nm, but the grating efficiency drops off at 2500 nm.

2

See NIRQuest Gratings for more information.

3

Other filter options are available for order-sorting in the NIRQuest 512-2.5. NIRQuest 512-2.5 ship with a 2nd-order filter. See an
Applications Scientist for details.

4

Optical resolution (FWHM) depends on grating and slit selection.

5

SNR will decrease at longer integration times.

6

Maximum integration times are defined as the longest amount of time one can integrate the spectrometer before the dark level

rises to half of full scale.

NIRQuest256 Spectrometer Specif i cations

NIRQuest256-2.1 NIRQuest256-2.5

PHYSICAL

Dimensions (mm): 182 x 110 x 47
Weight (kg): 1.18 (w/o power supply)

DETECTOR

Detector: Hamamatsu G9206-256

InGaAs linear array

Detector range: (According to

Hamamatsu)

900-2050 nm 900-2550 nm

Useable range1: 900-2050 nm 900-2500 nm
Pixels: 256
Pixel size: 50 µm x 500 µm
Saturation charge: 30 pC (~188 Me- electrons)

Hamamatsu G9208-256 InGaAs linear
array

28 016-700000-000-02-201301

B: Specifications

NIRQuest256-2.1 NIRQuest256-2.5

Defective pixels: <12 pixels

OPTICAL BENCH

Design:

f/4, symmetrical crossed Czerny-Turner

Entrance aperture

25 µm

(standard):
Entrance aperture (custom

10 µm, 50 µm, 100 µm and 200 µm (or no slit)

options):
Grating options (standard): Grating NIR2, 100 l/mm, 900-

Grating NIR1, 75 l/mm, 1075-2500 nm

2050 nm
Grating options (custom)2: NIR2, NIR3, NIR10, NIR11, NIR12 and NIR13
Longpass filter3: OF1-RG830 longpass NIR filter (optional)
2nd Order filter3: Standard
Collimating and focusing

Gold-coated for enhanced NIR reflectivity

mirrors:
Fiber optic connector: SMA 905 to 0.22 numerical aperture single-strand optical fiber

SPECTROSCOPIC

Wavelength range: 900-2050 nm w/Grating NIR2 900-2500 nm w/Grating NIR1
Optical resolution

(FWHM)

Signal-to-noise ratio at full
signal

4

:

5

:

~7.6 nm w/25 µm slit ~ 9.5 nm w/25 µm slit

10000:1 @ 100 ms integration 7500:1 @ 10 ms integration

A/D resolution: 16-bit

6 RMS counts @ 100 ms 8 RMS counts @ 10 ms
Dark noise:

12 RMS counts @ 250 ms 12 counts RMS @ 30 ms
Dynamic range:

15M (system); 10K:1 for a single

acquisition

500K (system); 7.5K:1 for a single acquisition

Integration time6: 1 ms – 2 s 1 ms – 60 ms

016-700000-000-02-201301 29

B: Specifications

NIRQuest256-2.1 NIRQuest256-2.5

Corrected linearity: >99.8% >99.6%
Estimated Peak Noise

5 pW 25 pW
Equivalent Power (NEP)
(default configuration)

ELECTRONICS

Power consumption USB power +5V, 0.5 A maximum; DC input jack +5V, 3 A maximum
Data transfer speed: Full scan to memory every 5 ms with USB 2.0 port
Inputs/ Outputs: External trigger input + single strobe output
Breakout box compatibility: Yes
Trigger modes: 2 modes (Normal/Free Run + 1-ms External Hardware Trigger)
Strobe functions: Yes
Gated delay: Yes, with external hardware trigger delay
Connector: 30-pin connector

TEMPERATURE & THERMOELECTRIC COOLING

Temperature limits

10-35 ºC (0-90% non-condensing)

(environmental):
TEC set point (software

Control at -20 ºC (up to 45 ºC below ambient)

controlled):
TEC stability:

+/-0.5 ºC of set temperature in <1 minute; typical long-term stability +/-0.1 ºC

COMPUTER

Operating systems: Windows 2000/XP and Vista (32-bit only); Mac OS X and Linux w/USB

port; any 32-bit Windows OS with serial port

Computer interfaces: USB 2.0 @ 480 Mbps; RS-232 (2-wire) @ 115.2 K baud (custom

configuration)

Peripheral interfaces: I2C inter-integrated circuit; SPI (3-wire)

30 016-700000-000-02-201301

B: Specifications

NIRQuest256-2.1 NIRQuest256-2.5

WIRELESS/ETHERNET INTERFACE (optional add-on accessory)

Wireless (Wi-Fi) interface: Yes, with adapter
Wired Ethernet interface: Yes, with adapter
Wi-Fi range: 25 meters in free space
Web server: Works with common browsers

1

“Useable range” is defined in the context of the NIRQuest model’s detector response and its typical grating response. For example,
the 512-element detector has response at 850 nm, but grating response begins at 900 nm. The G9206 256-element detector
response is sensitive to TEC temperature, and has response only to 2050 nm when the TEC is set to -20 ºC. The G9208 256­element and 512-element detector has response to 2550 nm, but the grating efficiency drops off at 2500 nm.

2

See NIRQuest Gratings for more information.

3

Other filter options are available for order-sorting in the NIRQuest256-2.1, NIRQuest256-2.5 and NIRQuest 512-2. 5. NIRQuest256-

2.5 and NIRQuest 512-2.5 ship with a 2

4

Optical resolution (FWHM) depends on grating and slit selection.

5

SNR will decrease at longer integration times.

6

Maximum integration times are defined as the longest amount of time one can integrate the spectrometer before the dark level

rises to half of full scale.

nd

-order filter. See an Applications Scientist for details.

016-700000-000-02-201301 31

B: Specifications

0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

0 50 100 150 200

Slit Size (microns)

Resolution (FWHM)

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

Relative Intensity

NIRQuest Spectrometer – Slit Size vs. Resolution and Throughput

The following chart illustrates the effect that varying slit sizes have on NIRQuest512 Spectrometer
resolution and throughput:

NIRQuest Gratings

The following tables show the NIRQuest gratings available for preconfigured (standard) setups and for all
options. Additional grating options, adjustments to starting and ending wavelengths and similar
customization may be available. Please contact an Applications Scientist for details.

Spectrometer Standard

NIRQuest512 NIR3 150 ~800 nm 1100 nm 900-1700 nm
NIRQuest512-1.9 NIR3 150 ~800 nm 1100 nm 1100-1900 nm
NIRQuest512-2.2 NIR2 100 1150 nm 1600 nm 900-2200 nm
NIRQuest512-2.5 NIR1 75 1425 nm 1700 nm 1075-2500 nm
NIRQuest256-2.1 NIR2 100 1150 nm 1600 nm 900-2050 nm
NIRQuest256-2.5 NIR1 75 1425 nm 1700 nm 1075-2500 nm

32 016-700000-000-02-201301

Grating

Groove
Density
(lines/mm)

Spectral
Range

Blaze
Wavelength

Best Efficiency
(>30%)

B: Specifications

NIRQuest Gratings – A l l Op t ion s

Grating Intended Use Groove

Density
(lines/mm)

NIR1 NIRQuest512-2.5

NIRQuest256-2.5

NIR2 NIRQuest 512-2.2

NIRQuest512-2.5
NIRQuest256-2.1
NIRQuest256-2.5

NIR3 NIRQuest512

NIRQuest512-1.9
NIRQuest512-2.2
NIRQuest 512-2.5
NIRQuest256-2.1,
NIRQuest256-2.5

NIR10 NIRQuest512,

NIRQuest512-2.2
NIRQuest512-2.5
NIRQuest256-2.1
NIRQuest256-2.5

75 1600 nm 1700 nm 1075-2500 nm

100 1200 nm 1600 nm 900-2050 nm

150 ~800 nm 1100 nm 900-1700 nm

300 350-380 nm 1200 nm 750-2200 nm

Spectral
Range*

Blaze
Wavelength

Best Efficiency
(>30%)

NIR11 NIRQuest512,

NIRQuest512-2.2
NIRQuest512-2.5
NIRQuest256-2.1
NIRQuest256-2.5

NIR12 NIRQuest512,

NIRQuest512-2.2
NIRQuest512-2.5
NIRQuest256-2.1
NIRQuest256-2.5

NIR13 NIRQuest512,

NIRQuest512-2.2
NIRQuest512-2.5
NIRQuest256-2.1

NIRQuest256-2.5
NIR14 NIRQuest512 1000 50-90 nm 1310 nm 900-1700 nm
* The spectral range is a function of the starting wavelength; the longer (i.e., the farther out in the NIR)

the starting wavelength, the smaller the spectral range possible.

400 240-290 nm 1600 nm 980-2500 nm

500 160-220 nm 1370 nm 900-2500 nm

600 100-180 nm 1200 nm 800-2500 nm

016-700000-000-02-201301 33

B: Specifications

Grating Efficiency Curves

The following graphs show grating efficiency only. System sensitivity is due to several factors, including
detector response and grating efficiency.

Grating NIR1, 1075 – 2500 nm, 75 l/mm, Blazed at 1700 nm

34 016-700000-000-02-201301

B: Specifications

Grating NIR2, 900 – 2050 nm, 100 l/mm, Blazed at 1600 nm

Grating NIR3, 900 – 1700 nm, 150 l/mm, Blazed at 1100 nm

016-700000-000-02-201301 35

B: Specifications

Grating NIR10, 750 – 2200 nm, 300 l/mm, Blazed at 1200 nm

Grating NIR11, 980 – 2500 nm, 400 l/mm, Blazed at 1600 nm

36 016-700000-000-02-201301

B: Specifications

Grating NIR12, 900 – 2500 nm, 500 l/mm, Blazed at 1370 nm

Grating NIR13, 800 – 2500 nm, 600 l/mm, Blazed at 1200 nm

016-700000-000-02-201301 37

B: Specifications

Grating NIR14, 900 – 1700 nm, 1000 l/mm, Blazed at 1310 nm

NIRQuest Optical Resolution for St andar d Set ups

The following table lists the optical resolution (FWHM) by slit width for standard (preconfigured) setups.
Optical resolution will vary by grating range and slit size.

Optical Resolution by Slit Width

1

Slit NIRQuest512

SLIT-10 ~2.0 nm ~3.0 nm ~4.1 nm ~6.7 nm ~8.3 nm
SLIT-25 ~3.1 nm 4.7 nm ~6.3 nm ~7.6 nm ~9.5 nm
SLIT-50 ~3.6 nm ~5.4 nm ~7.2 nm ~8.9 nm ~11.1 nm
SLIT-100 ~6.6 nm ~9.8 nm ~13.1 nm ~11.2 nm ~13.9 nm
SLIT-200 ~12.3 nm ~18.5 nm ~25 nm ~17.9 nm ~22.2 nm

1

Grating NIR3 used (900-1700 nm)

2

Grating NIR2 used (900-2050 nm)

3

Grating NIR1 used (900-2500 nm)

NIRQuest512-2.22 NIRQuest512-2.53 NIRQuest256-2.12 NIRQuest256-2.53

38 016-700000-000-02-201301

B: Specifications

30-Pin Accessory Connector Pinout

The NIRQuest features a 30-pin Accessory Connector, located on the side of the unit as shown:

Location of NIRQuest 30-Pin Accessory Connector

30-Pin Accessory Connector Pinout Diagram

When facing the 30-pin Accessory Connector on the front of the vertical wall of the NIRQuest, pin
numbering is as follows:

USB

Port

2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30

1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 23 25 27 29

30-Pin Accessory Connector Pinout Diagram

30-Pin Accessory Connector – Pin Definitions and Descriptions

The following table contains information regarding the function of each pin in the NIRQuest’s 30-Pin
Accessory Connector:

Pin

Function Input/Output Description

#

1 RS232 Rx Input RS232 receive signal – Com municates with a PC over DB9 Pin 3
2 RS232 Tx Output RS232 transmit signal – Comm unic ates with a PC over DB9 Pin 2

016-700000-000-02-201301 39

B: Specifications

Pin

Function Input/Output Description

#

3 GPIO (2) Input/Output

General purpose software-programmable, digital input/output

(channel number)
4 N/A N/A Reserved
5 Ground Input/Output Ground
6 I2C SCL Input/Output I2C clock signal for communication to other I2C peripherals

7 GPIO (0) Input/Output

General purpose software-programmable, digital input/output

(channel number)
8 I2C SDA Input/Output I2C data signal for communication to other I2C peripherals

9 GPIO (1) Input/Output

Ext.

10

Trigger In

Input TTL input trigger signal

11 GPIO (3) Input/Output

12 VCC or 5VIN

Input or
Output

General purpose software-programmable, digital input/output

(channel number)

General purpose software-programmable, digital input/output

(channel number)

Input power pin for NIRQuest – When operating via USB, this pin

can power other peripherals – Ensure that peripherals comply with

USB specifications (no TEC power)

SPI Data

13

Out

14 VCC or 5VIN

Output

Input or
Output

15 SPI Data In Input

16 GPIO (4) Input /Output

Single

17

Strobe

Output

18 GPIO (5) Input/Output

SPI Master Out Slave In (MOSI) signal for communication to other

SPI peripherals

Input power pin for NIRQuest – When operating via USB, this pin

can power other peripherals – Ensure that peripherals comply with

USB specifications (no TEC power)

SPI Master In Slave Out (MISO) signal for communication to other

SPI peripherals

General purpose software-programmable, digital input/output

(channel number)

TTL output pulse used as a strobe signal – Has a programmable

delay relative to the beginning of the spectrometer integration period

General purpose software-programmable, digital input/output

(channel number)
19 SPI Clock Output SPI clock signal for communication to other SPI peripherals

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B: Specifications

Pin

Function Input/Output Description

#

Continuous

20

Strobe
SPI Chip

21

Select

22 GPIO (6) Input/Output

23 N/A N/A Reserved
24 N/A N/A Reserved

Lamp

25

Enable

26 GPIO (7) Input/Output

27 Ground Input/Output Ground

28 GPIO (8) Input/Output

29 Ground Input/Output Ground

Output

Output

Output

TTL output signal used to pulse a strobe – Divided down from the

master clock signal

SPI Chip/Device Select signal for communication to other SPI

peripherals

General purpose software-programmable, digital input/output

(channel number)

TTL signal driven Active HIGH when the Lamp Enable command is

sent to the spectrometer

General purpose software-programmable, digital input/output

(channel number)

General purpose software-programmable, digital input/output

(channel number)

30 GPIO (9) Input/Output

General purpose software-programmable, digital input/output

(channel number)

30-Pin J2 Accessory Connector - Part Numbers

The part numbers for the 30-pin accessory connector on the NIRQuest Spectrometer are as follows:

• The connector is Pak50™ model from 3M Corp. Headed Connector – Part Number

P50–030P1–RR1–TG.

• The mating connector is Part Number P50–030S–TGF.

• Mating the two components requires two 1.27 mm (50 mil) flat ribbon cables (3M 3365 Series is

recommended).

016-700000-000-02-201301 41

B: Specifications

NIRQuest 15-Pin Accessory Cable Pinout

Pin # Description Pin # Description

1 Single_strobe 9 GPIO-9
2 ContStrobe 10 GND_SIGNAL
3 V5_SW 11 SDA
4 ExtTrigIn 12 SCL
5 ExtTrigIn 13 LampEnable
6 GPIO-8 14 A_IN
7 A_OUT 15 GPIO-7

8 ExtTrigIn

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Appendix C

NIRQuest512-2.5 and

NIRQuest256-2.5 Sensitivity

When configuring a system for operation out to 2.5µm it is important that you consider the following
details:

• Short Integration Times: For the detector to be sensitive out to 2.5µm, the detector’s band gap

energy must be small. Unfortunately, this raises the absolute level of the detectors dark signal.
Typical dark signals at 400ms (NIRQuest512-2.5) and 135ms (NIRQuest256-2.5) are shown
below.

• Fiber Selection: For maximum signal intensity, alternative fiber materials should be used for

wavelengths greater than 2.2µm.

016-700000-000-02-201301 43

C: NIRQuest512-2.5 and NIRQuest256-2.5 Sensitivity

The figure below shows the relative intensity of a NIRQuest 512-2.5 and a NIRQuest256-2.5
Spectrometer with a 25µm slit directly coupled to an LS-1 Light Source with a 400µm fiber.

44 016-700000-000-02-201301

______________________________________________________________________________

Index

1

15-pin accessory cable

pinouts, 42

3

30-pin accessory connector

diagram, 39
part numbers, 41
pin definitions, 39

A

accessories, 3, 7
Accessories, 11
accessory connector

pinout, 39

Adobe Acrobat Reader, 6

B

breakout box, 3, 7

C

Calibrating, 17
calibration coefficients

saving in USB mode, 20
CCD Detector, 24
collimating mirror, 24
component table, 24
configuring, 11

F

features, 3
filter, 24
focusing mirror, 24

G

grating, 24, 32

efficiency curves, 34

gratings, 34

I

Installation, 9

Serial, 10

USB, 9
installed filter, 24
Installing, 9
interface options, 6

M

memory chip, 2
mirror, 24
modular approach, 2

N

NIR controls, 11

SpectraSuite, 12
NIRQuest256-2.5 sensitivity, 43
NIRQuest512-2.5 sensitivity, 43

D

document

audience, iii
purpose, iii
summary, iii

E

EEPROM, 2
external triggering, 11

016-700000-000-02-201301 45

optical resolution, 38

Packing List, 6
power supply (external), 6
product description, 1
product-related documentation, iv

O

P

Index

troubleshooting

S

shipment contents, 6
slit, 24
SMA Connector, 24
software, 3
Software and Resources Library CD, 6
Specifications

Detector, 28
Gratings, 34

Spectrometer, 28
SpectraSuite, 3, 12
Spectroscopic Accessori es, 11

T

TE Cooler, 3

Linux systems, 15
Mac systems, 15
Windows systems, 13

Troubleshooting, 13

U

upgrades, iv
USB-ADP-PC, 6
USB-CBL-1, 6

W

Wavelength Calibration, 17
Wavelength Calibration Data File, 6
Wavelength Calibration Data Sheet, 6
what's new, iii

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