Analog Devices to host ‘Name That Beer’ demo

USA: Analog Devices Inc. (ADI) is teaming up with Wasatch Photonics, Inc. at electronica 2012 (November 13-16, Munich, Germany) to stage a “Name That Beer” demonstration using the Wasatch Photonics Stroker 785L Raman Spectrometer.

Incorporating ADI’s precision A/D converter technology, the compact Raman laser spectrometer will distinguish from among 10 brands of German beer by reading the signature spectrum of each. The demonstration will be held at the Analog Devices booth (Hall A4 Stand 159). The Stroker 785L combines a ƒ/1.3 spectrometer using a free-space VPH (volume phase holographic) grating, a stabilized 785-nm laser, and a scientific CCD (charge-coupled device) camera that integrates ADI’s precision A/D converter technology.
     
“The Stroker 785L can identify substances by optically probing the inherent molecular vibrational fingerprints through measurement of the laser-induced amplitude and frequency shift of the scattered light. This compact system can be used in pharmaceutical, narcotic and explosives identification in real time – and from a safe distance,” said Scott Norton, VP Engineering at Wasatch Photonics. “This demonstration offers engineers an example of how laboratory-based performance can be achieved in a compact form factor by combining high-quality parts and innovation in electrical, optical and mechanical engineering.”

The Wasatch Photonics’ Stroker 785L combines Wasatch’s Stroker ƒ/1.3 spectrometer technology with its proprietary free space VPH grating, a customized high-performance CCD camera that integrates ADI’s AD7980 16-bit, 1 MSPS PulSAR A/D converter, and a stabilized 785-nm laser package to deliver the highest throughput in a miniature Raman spectrometer on the market.

The front-end optical module matches the ƒ/1.3 spectrometer input to maintain maximum efficiency. High-performance hard coated filters are used to maximize transmission and minimize Rayleigh scattering. A 120-mW, 785-nm laser is TEC and VBG (volume Bragg grating) stabilized resulting in ultra-stable performance over time and temperature.