AlphaSpec™ μL Spectrophotometer Now Available from Alpha Innotech Corp.

The new AlphaSpec™ μL Spectrophotometer is now available from Alpha Innotech Corp., a leading provider of innovative bioimaging solutions for a broad range of life science applications. AlphaSpec’s innovative sample platform features a non-contact detection method allowing scientists to recover 100% of their sample after taking a measurement. Additionally, AlphaSpec only requires 2 μL of sample for measurement, eliminating the need for dilutions, cuvettes or capillaries.

AlphaSpec is a compact UV/Vis spectrophotometer providing superior performance and an intuitive workflow. AlphaSpec’s in-tip detection design allows the user to simply pipette 2 μl of sample into the pipette tip which is then placed into the AlphaSpec for analysis. Since the reading takes place through the pipette tip, the scientist can recover 100% of their sample for further experimentation. This streamlined sample measurement process is enabled by the development of AlphaUV™ tips which are constructed of a transmissive polymer, allowing direct in-tip detection and eliminating the need to transfer the sample to a cuvette or a capillary.

“AlphaSpec is an ideal spectrophotometer for daily use in laboratories requiring quick preprogrammed analysis modules. Additionally, the ability to recover samples following measurement is a very important benefit for life science researchers because it allows them to conserve precious sample,” commented Lisa Valdin, Marketing Manager of Alpha Innotech.

AlphaSpec is designed for applications involving DNA, RNA, protein, cell density and microarray sample absorption measurements. AlphaSpec’s advanced CCD detector can analyze samples with wavelengths ranging from 230 to 850 nm, with the resulting scan displayed as a graph of the spectral curve. AlphaSpec’s intuitive user interface employs established protocols for automatically calculating valuable data such as concentration, absorbance, dye ratios and purity ratios.

“Alpha Innotech has always been at the forefront of bringing innovative instruments to the life science research and molecular biology markets,” stated Sia Ghazvini, VP of Marketing and Business Development, “and with the release of AlphaSpec we now offer a unique, productivity-driven instrument for new customers in teaching institutions and the food industry.”

Supporting the launch of the AlphaSpec is AlphaCal™, a DNA wavelength calibration kit for Good Laboratory Practice (GLP)-compliant analysis. This unique calibration fluid comes with an independent NIST- traceable certification, and provides a reliable and accurate reference point for calibrating the AlphaSpec when used for applications within the UV/Visible spectrum. This product will allow GLP labs to validate the system using a NIST traceable standard.

For more information on AlphaSpec please visit the article webpage. The instrument and supporting reagents and consumables are available for purchase online at Alpha Innotech’s website.