High accuracy measurements for both solid and liquid samples
North Sutton, New Hampshire  (January 8, 2010) –  Luminescent materials are extremely important components in many applications including solid state lighting and medical imaging and diagnostic systems.  To measure the quantum efficiency of these critical materials, Labsphere, in partnership with Photal Otsuka Electronics has developed the QE-1000.  By employing the companies’ patented HalfMoon integrating hemisphere, the QE-1000 measures both liquid and solid samples with very high accuracy and reproducibility.  The system allows excitation across a broad spectrum of 250-700nm and detection from 240-800nm.  The QE-1000 will debut during Photonics West 2010 at Labsphere’s booth, 1437.

According to Takashi Maruyama, president of Otsuka Electronics, “The key to the QE-1000 is the HalfMoon sample chamber, this allows both solid and liquid samples to be mounted in the chamber with reduced errors due to the absorption of the sample holder.  We are very pleased that Labsphere manufactures the hemisphere with Spectralon® which has the highest possible diffuse reflectance, further reducing errors.”

According to Peter Weitzman, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Labsphere, “Collaborating with Photal as the sales agent and technology partner for the QE-1000 in the US and European markets allows Labsphere to bring customers a new level of convenience in sample handling, as well as very high accuracy and reproducibility.”

About Labsphere
Labsphere (www.labsphere.com), a Halma company, is a world leader in light testing and measurement, and optical coatings.  The company’s products include LED, laser and traditional light source light measurement systems; uniform light sources for imaging device calibration; spectroscopy accessories; and high diffuse reflectance materials and coatings for applications in backlit panel displays, computed radiography, and system calibration.

About Otsuka Electronics
Photal Otsuka Electronics (www.photal.co.jp/global) is a measurement equipment manufacturer providing new applications and products by pursuing leading edge optical/spectral technologies. Otsuka Electronics provides standard measurement equipment to the display R&D and production fields.  With its expertise in optical measurement technologies, the company plays a behind-the-scenes supportive role in developing high quality displays and constituent materials. As a subsidiary of Otsuka Pharmaceutical Company, Otsuka Electronics also provides scientific measurement equipment to support advances in leading edge science and technology and unique medical equipment that contribute to people’s health. Otsuka Electronics has its headquarters in Hirakata, Osaka, Japan with subsidiary companies in Korea, Taiwan and China.

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All the tools needed for Boots Star, COLIPA, FDA, and user-defined SPF
North Sutton, New Hampshire  (December 14, 2009) –  To simplify quality assurance and UVA Protection Factor analysis for the development and testing of sunscreen and cosmetics using Labsphere’s UV-2000s transmittance analyzer, the company has introduced the UV2000S Sample Preparation Starter Kit.  The kit brings together all the tools needed to prepare the correct in-vitro sunscreen sample common to Boot Star, COLIPA, FDA, and user-defined SPF measurement methods.

Labsphere UV-2000S Sample Prep Kit for Boots Star, COLIPA, FDA, and user-defined SPF.

While sample preparation methods vary by region, the tools needed to prepare the sample are the same. The easy to use kit contains: a tube of Vaseline®, one positive displacement Pipette (10 -1 uL Range), one box of  Pipette Capillaries and Pistons (25 uL), one box of Pipette Capillaries (100 uL), one box of Non-Powdered Finger Cots, and Sample Preparation Guide.  The guide was created and tested by application experts at Labsphere to familiarize users with sample preparation processes, assist in establishing correct standards, and to help ensure consistent results from one test to another.

Labsphere’s UV-2000s transmittance analyzer benchtop R&D system is designed to rapidly measure the spectral transmittance of sunscreen products, especially those with high protection factors SPF 50 and above, as well as UVA/UVB protection factor.  The instrument measures the diffuse transmittance of a product sample over the 250 nm – 450 nm ultraviolet wavelength range.  Its application software automatically converts measurement data to provide the Sun Protective Factor (SPF), UVA to UVB ratio, critical wavelength, Boot Star Rating, and UVA-PF (COLIPA Method).  The platform allows users to view, archive, retrieve and export data for measurements on both bare substrates and product substrates and supports evolving regional methods with subscription-based updates.

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New UV-2000S software version calculates FDA, SPF, UVA to UVB ratio, Boot Star, and COLIPA
North Sutton, New Hampshire  (April 30, 2009) – To support its UV-2000s transmittance analyzer, used for quality assurance and UVA Protection Factor (UVA-PF) analysis in the formulation, development and testing of sunscreen products, Labsphere has introduced a software upgrade.  Together, the instrument and UV-2000S version 1.2 software form the only system on the market capable of performing in-vitro, Boot Star, COLIPA, FDA, and user-defined SPF measurement methods.

The user-friendly application software automatically converts measurement data to provide the Sun Protective Factor (SPF), UVA to UVB ratio, critical wavelength, Boot Star Rating, and UVA-PF (COLIPA Method).  It includes an FDA Method that meets proposed rules for in-vitro UVA/UVB protection factor results.  In addition, its COLIPA substrate test allows users to quickly determine if their PMMA substrates meet the COLIPA recommendations.  To ensure accuracy, the software performs reference channel saturation checks of the sample if the substrate or plate is highly absorbing.  Unlike previous software versions, the same blank scan can be used for multiple studies.

The platform allows users to view, archive, retrieve and export data for measurements on both bare substrates and product substrates.  The wavelength range and wavelength interval selection feature exports spectral data of interest to .csv format.  To support evolving regional methods (e.g., revised Boot Star, PA+ Method, UVAI/UV Ratio, etc.), the software is now available on a subscription basis.  Users who subscribe to Labsphere’s software will be updated as new standards and regulations for in-vitro sunscreen testing are added to the software.

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Highly diffuse reflectance material provides reliable known reflectance values
North Sutton, New Hampshire (March 4, 2009) – With the highest diffuse reflectance values of any known substance, Labsphere’s Spectralon® Reflectance Standards provide the most accurate calibration for a variety of testing equipment.  Spectrophotometers, Densitometers, Integrating Sphere Systems, Optical Equipment, Photographic Equipment, Reflectometers and Remote Sensing Instruments can be calibrated according to National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) traceable standards.

Available in a variety of reflectance values and colors with values ranging from 2 to 99 percent reflectance values over the 250 – 2500 nm wavelength range, the diffuseness of Labsphere’s standards eliminate viewing angle errors.  Spectralon is the only known substance on the market that stays completely diffuse at these high reflectance values.

The standards come both calibrated and uncalibrated and are available individually and as sets.  The durable units are thermally stable, washable and waterproof for use in a wide variety of environments from laboratory to production and quality control.

Labsphere is currently offering a 20% discount on orders of 10 or more standards placed before March 15, 2009.  For more information e-mail Labsphere at standards@labsphere.com or phone +1 (603) 927-4266.

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Highly diffuse reflectance material inert and stable for space flight applications
North Sutton, New Hampshire (February 5, 2009) – With a reflectance value greater than 99 percent, Labsphere’s Space-Grade Spectralon® delivers the highest level of uniform light integration with the stability, sustainability and purity required for applications involving space flight.  Used to recalibrate in-flight cameras, Space-Grade Spectralon coating material and targets have a proven track record of success in a number of spacecraft currently in flight.  

Chemically inert, and thermally and environmentally stable, Space-Grade Spectralon provides extremely stable, reproducible spectral reflectance.  It achieves reflectance values of greater than 99 percent for wavelength ranges from visible through mid wave infrared.

Through extensive testing for UV-VUV radiation exposure, a stringent manufacturing process was developed to eliminate potential contaminants that can lead to UV degradation.  The high purity and cleanliness requirements in space environment applications are further ensured by Labsphere’s sophisticated manufacturing, shipping and contamination process controls.

Labsphere’s Space-Grade Spectralon is the only recognized Lambertian material that has been used in launch environments and is fully characterized.  It has been used for sensor calibration in over 25 space applications, including MODIS, MSIR, MERIS, GOSAT and ABI sensors.

Recently, ITT Industries Space Systems Division selected Labsphere’s Space-Grade Spectralon for a project “because it is the only reflectance material in the industry that has proven results in space for terrestrial remote sensing applications,” according to Senior Systems Engineer, Kim Slack.

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The most accurate NIST-traceable calibration available
North Sutton, New Hampshire (December 18, 2008) – Manufacturers of LEDs, light fixtures and displays can now calibrate their spectral or luminous flux measurement systems quickly and accurately with Forward Flux Lamp Standards from Labsphere.  This entirely new technology, available only from Labsphere, provides an exceptional artifact for maintaining and verifying 2π integrating sphere spectrometer calibration with a highly reliable standard calibrated directly to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) lumen.

Available in 400 and 1000 lumen models, Forward Flux Lamp Standards can be used to calibrate integrating sphere spectrometers for total forward spectral radiant flux responsivity from 350 nm to 1050 nm.  The lamp standards are designed to meet the recommended practices of the Engineering Society of North America (IESNA) LM-79 for 2π measurements of solid state lighting. 

Each lamp standard is carefully seasoned, screened, and calibrated.  All lamp standards are first seasoned for 1% of their rated life, and then screened for stability and repeatable performance, before transferring the lumen directly from a NIST lumen reference.  The result is an accurate and reliable system calibration with a lamp standard distribution similar to the light sources being tested.

Lamp standards include a calibration certificate and calibration data on CD-ROM.  Labsphere is an ISO 9001: 2000 Certified company.

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Total forward spectral flux measurement systems deliver full integrating sphere accuracy in compact design
North Sutton, New Hampshire (December 3, 2008) – Labsphere, a world leader in light testing and measurement and optical coatings, and Otsuka Electronics Co., Ltd of Japan have collaborated to develop a new light measurement system.  Designed for manufacturers of LEDs, light fixtures and displays, the HalfMoon Total Forward Spectral Flux Measurement Systems deliver accurate and efficient light source measurements.

Available in standard 12, 20 and 40 inch diameters, the HalfMoon system provides an alternative to integrating sphere photometer and goniophotometer methods of measuring total forward spectral flux of forward emitting lamps, luminaires and displays.  The unique compact design, available only from Labsphere and Otsuka, creates a virtual integrating sphere by pairing an interior mirrored surface cap with half an orb coated with Labsphere’s highly reflective diffuse Spectraflect® material.  The resulting system saves space, minimizes absorption errors and facilitates quick sample changes.

While the HalfMoon has a small footprint, it shares the accuracy of an integrating sphere, but with twice the efficiency of an integrating sphere of the same diameter.  The center sample mounting keeps base electronics and thermal management peripherals out of the detection area to reduce absorption errors.  The easily accessible mount also reduces the time to set up and change samples for measurement.  The system is configured for base up to horizontal measurement geometry, allowing products to be tested in the same orientation as the fixtures they are intended for.

In Japan, China, Korea, and Taiwan, contact Otsuka (www.photal.co.jp/global; funato@photal.co.jp; 81-72-855-8550) for more information.  United States and rest of world, contact Labsphere direct (www.labsphere.com; labsphere@labsphere.com; +1 603 927-4266).

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Measure several properties of light output on LED, tungsten, xenon and krypton lamp assemblies
North Sutton, New Hampshire (July 2, 2008) – With new standards for flashlight measurement on the horizon, Labsphere has developed the FS2 Spectral Flux Measurement System to facilitate accurate spectroradiometric, photometric and colorimetric characterization.  These application-specific, turnkey systems evaluate lamp efficiency for flashlight development and manufacture in commercial, marine, military, head-wear, emergency roadside and outdoor equipment applications.

The FS2 system assesses Total Spectral Flux (Watts/nm), Total Radiant Flux (Watts), Total Luminous Flux (lumens), Color (CCT), Lamp Performance vs. Time, Peak and Dominant Wavelength, Spectral Purity, Color Rendering Index (CRI), Chromaticity Coordinates and Half-Bandwidth.  The high dynamic range is suitable for a broad range of flashlights, including those with LED, tungsten, xenon and krypton lamps. 

The system’s integrating sphere, coated with Labsphere’s proprietary highly reflective diffuse Spectraflect®, delivers exceptional spatial integration, critical for uniform, repeatable and reproducible measurements of directional light sources.  Total Forward Spectral Flux measurements are possible with the easy access side mount port, and an optional internal mounting platform in the integrating sphere delivers total spectral flux measurement of flashlight lamps.

Substitution errors are corrected with an absorption correction lamp and a forward spectral flux standard is provided for user calibrations.  The lamp distribution further reduces spatial substitution errors.  The MtrX-Flashlight, Flashlight Spectral Flux Measurement Software provides a user-friendly, intuitive platform for calibrating the system and analyzing measurements. All measurement results are captured instantly with real time graphics and the ability to generate and export reports. 

Labsphere’s experienced engineering staff is able to specifically address the unique needs of each customer, designing a custom FS2 system for the type of flashlight application under study. 

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Calibrate and analyze spectral radiometric, photometric and colorimetric properties of lamps and LEDs
North Sutton, New Hampshire  (May 27, 2008) – For research and development, quality control and production of LEDs, solid state lighting and other light sources, Labsphere’s powerful MtrX-SPEC light metrology software module delivers user friendly spectrometer calibration and control for spectral characterization (flux, color, intensity and irradiance).

The MtrX-SPEC is unique to the industry in that it is the first software platform that is commercially viable; its intuitive interface means it can be used easily by engineering staff and production floor operators alike.  The system calibrates Labsphere’s spectrometers and analyzes spectral radiometric, photometric and colorimetric properties of light sources.  Spectral, electrical and thermal controls provide complete characterization of a wide range of light sources, from simple lamps and LEDs to solid state lighting assemblies and traditional indoor/outdoor lighting. 

Temporal measurement features track photometric performance with time.  Quadrangle measurements facilitate color performance binning of white LEDs for solid state lighting applications.  All measurement results are captured instantly with real time graphics and the ability to generate and export reports. 

A Windows® compatible interface with methods driven operations reduces the software learning curve, enabling results in the lab to be easily repeated on the shop floor.  User calibration and validation processes adhere to the user’s quality management system. 

Free MtrX-SPEC demo software is available for download.  To request a copy, contact your local Labsphere representative, send an e-mail to labsphere@labsphere.com, or phone +1 (603) 927-4266.

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Custom designed to measure several properties of light output on wide variety of lamps
North Sutton, New Hampshire  (April 10, 2008) – Energy efficient lighting is the goal of many lamp manufacturers, departments of energy and lighting engineers. Labsphere’s Fluorescent Spectral Lamp Measurement Systems (FSLMS) facilitate accurate photometric and electrical characterization with application-specific, turnkey systems that evaluate lamp efficiency, with National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) traceable results.

The system’s 2 meter lamp measurement integrating sphere accommodates light sources positioned base up, base down, or longitudinally, to easily and efficiently measure virtually any lamp type, including fluorescents up to 48 inches in length.  One stationary hemisphere and one on an easy to open slide rail track allows light sources to be quickly switched in and out during testing.  The integrated TE cooled CCD spectrometer evaluates lamp photometric and colorimetric performance by measuring Total Spectral Flux, Luminous Flux, Correlated Color Temperature (CCT), Color Rendering Index (CRI), and Chromaticity.

The FSLMS includes software controlled AC and DC power supplies to allow for measurement of fluorescent, compact fluorescent, and incandescent lamps.  A wide range of screw base and G type lamp sockets are available to hold several sizes of tubular and compact fluorescent lamps including compact fluorescents with and without electronic ballasts.

The integrated system from Labsphere is contained in an ergonomically designed workstation.  Testing and measurement are run by Labsphere’s user-friendly application-specific control software.  A single screen guides the user through all lamp measurement procedures, continually reporting all spectral energy distribution and color data on the test lamp.  On-screen graphics clearly display spectral flux vs. wavelength, on a CIE chromaticity diagram with the measured chromaticity.

Labsphere’s experienced engineering staff is able to specifically address the unique needs of each customer, designing a custom FSLMS that addresses the most minute application details. 

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