Modernized Cary 14 UV/Vis/NIR spectrophotometer

An Olis 14/17 – built from a Cary from your laboratory or from our storehouse – provides you with absolutely best optical performance at half the price of a brand new optical equavalent. The spectral range is 185-2600 nm, photometric accuracy is ± 0.0005 AU, and stray light is less than 0.001%, among other distinctions of this outstanding classic instrument.

What happens to my Cary after it arrives at Olis for modernization?

These marvelous optical benches are so high quality that they are worth modernizing once and twice and perhaps more! Here's a story from a group which modernized their Cary 14 with us twice: Olis helped Scott C. Hartsel's lab at the University of Wisconsin save their Cary 14 from the junkyard.

For more than 20 years, Olis has built premium quality optical benches based on the optics and housings of classic spectrophotometers, fluorimeter, and circular dichrometers.

The resulting Olis spectrophotometers are entirely modern, warranted and have the identical optical performance of the original classics. As an example, the Cary 14 UV/Vis/NIR retains its 185-2600 nm wavelength range, but now without a strip chart recorder, without antiquated electronics, and with computerized lamp and detector changeovers and fully computerized data acquisition. The SLM 8000 spectrofluorimeter regains its status as the 'Cadillac' of fluorimeters with 100% new Olis electromechanics and computerization. All original accessories can be retained; all new accessories can be added, including integrating spheres, temperature control, stopped-flow, titration, photon counting, etc.

Our procedure is simple: (1) start with a great optical bench, (2) remove all original electronics and mechanical components, (3) add modern electromechanical hardware, and (4) computerize the resulting instrument for decades of reliable operation.

The result is an optically superb, yet affordable, UV/Vis, UV/Vis/NIR, CD or spectrofluorimeter. Prices are consistently about half of the replacement cost of optically comparable models.

Normally, the owner of a classic Cary, Aminco, SLM, or comparable model invites Olis to modernize his instrument. The alternative is a completely modernized unit from the models Olis has purchased and/or accepted as trade-in. Both choices mean a new life for a superb spectrophotometer and a huge cost savings to you.

Data Collection

Data can be collected as a function of wavelength (scans), time at a fixed wavelength (assays), and linear or non-linear time (as in enzyme kinetic work). With original or new Olis jacketed cell holders and a digital water bath, data as a function of temperature can be collected. Up to 100 spectra can be collected in the "repetitive scans as a function of time" mode. And, multiple samples can be measured in succession without user intervention using original or Olis six or ten position cell holders. The software supports a selection of fixed or variable slits, and fixed or variable high voltages.

Data Analysis

Olis software is mature and inclusive. Most laboratories use the program as it is delivered. Some labs request customization; others modify the software themselves to include algorithms unique to their groups' studies.

Baseline Calculation

One of the more appreciated changes to the original spectrophotometer is the new mode of producing a flat baseline. (Many tedious hours have been spent adjusting the MULTIPOT system in the Cary 14!) With the Olis system, one scans a spectrum without sample present, stores this value, and then the computer can subtract the 'baseline' (background) record from all incoming raw data. Baseline flatness of better than ± 0.001 absorbance units is achieved from modernized Cary and Aminco units.

Customization

Customization is routine around Olis. We build 'reversed optics' units for NASA, add stopped-flow mixing system for the University of Missouri, incorporate microscopes for Iowa State, and add fluorescence detection enhancements for the Baptist College of Hong Kong. Whatever it takes to make your instrumentation and software exactly right for your studies, we do.

The Cary 14 can be configured for NIR fluorescence studies. View more information here. Contact Olis and work with us to design the optimal instrument for your lab.

Non-Computerized Operation

There is no such thing as using an Olis modernized spectrophotometer without a computer; the computer software replaces most of the electronics of the original instrument.

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