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General FAQs
What kind of Microscopes can I use with the RatioMaster™?
The RatioMaster™ can be used with any standard microscope.
What ports can I use the RatioMaster™ on to illuminate my microscope?
PTI provides adaptors free of charge for both EPI and Direct port on the microscope.
What ports can I use the RatioMaster's Photometer on?
For easy of use any port the has a C mount
Does the RatioMaster™ come with its own power supply?
YES, the RatioMaster™ comes standard with all of the power supplies to be a stand-alone unit.
Is the RatioMaster™ easy to install?
YES, PTI supplies a easy to use manual and has an installation video on our web site to illustrate the ease of use and set up. PTI also offers Net Meeting training sessions. You can also have a PTI representative come to your lab to set up and train you on the RatioMaster™ system.
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Light Source FAQs
Why do other companies offer a more powerful light source? (to be completed)
The amount of light gathered by the system is dependent on the spot size of the focused beam, if the spot size is grater than the entrance slit width it is lost light. The ability to F match the light source to the diffraction portion of the system is the key to throughput, PTI uses a reflector to capture the light to maximize light collection and F match to the DRX. In fact the DRX's 75 Watt source is more powerful than a 150 Watt.
What is a reflector and why is it better than using lens to capture the light from the lamp?
The reflector surrounds the lamp (like a womb) and gathers the complete radiance of the lamps' energy and focuses it to the entrance of the DRX at the same F # as the DRX for maximum light collection. Unlike lens based collection where the lens only collects the light at a certain angle to the lamp.
Does the heat from the Lamp harm the reflector? ( work on wording)
No, unlike other reflectors on the market PTI only uses high threshold single piece of aluminum manufactured via diamond etching. This allows the reflector to be extremely heat resistant.
Is the Lamp Ozone free?
Yes, the RatioMaster™ comes standard with an Ozone free lamp so there is no need for a hood over the system in your lab.
How long does the Lamp last?
Our standard lamp 1000 hours or more.
Can I replace the lamp myself?
Yes, PTI has a written manual and a movie on our web site that takes you step by step through the installation and alignment of the lamp.
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Excitation Portion (DRX) FAQs
What wavelength region can I cover with the Standard RatioMaster™ excitation portion?
The Excitation portion covers any wavelength from 290nm to 650nm in increments of 0.5nm step sizes. If your application requires different wavelengths we can also accommodate that, please contact your local representative for details.
What is the difference between the RatioMaster's excitation portion and a standard scanning monochromator?
The optical principles of light diffraction are the same however the function of how the wavelengths shift is the main difference. Where traditional mono's use a worm drive to change the wavelengths and DRX uses a galvanometer for high speed wavelength selection.
How does the galvanometer work?
The galvanometer allows the excitation portion (DRX) to directly drive a flat mirror at high speeds which changes the angle of incident at which the light is directed towards the grating. This allows the wavelengths to change at high speeds.
So how fast is the excitation portion (DRX) vs. a standard scanning mono?
With the following parameters being the same for both systems:
- Start at 250nm and go to 450nm in 1nm steps and then back to 250nm.
- A standard mono would take 3.5 sec.
- The DRX would take 0.2 sec.
How many wavelengths can I really do in a second?
You can drive the RatioMaster's (DRX) up to as many as 250 ratios' per second.
Why does the RatioMaster™ come with an automatic shutter?
The automatic shutter prevents photo bleaching, by automatically closing between wavelengths.
What do the Bi-lateral Slits do for my applications?
Unlike filters which have a set bandwidth, the RatioMaster's (DRX) can adapt to your specific application needs with a continuous adjustment from 0 to 24nm. This feature is key in utilizing the full dynamic range of ratiometric dyes. For More information reference the PTI tech note: Draw backs of Filters
Why would I choose a tunable system over a filter wheel based system?
The simple fact is cost of ownership and flexibility. With a filter based system you only have the choice of up to 10 fixed wavelengths at a set band pass a reflective based system like the DRX allows the user to set any center wavelength at any band pass to optimize the current application as well as the future application. The cost of ownership is the fact that the DRX offers the customer a catalog of unlimited filter wavelengths and bandwidths. (Saving thousands of dollars.)
Why does the RatioMaster™ come with different modes of operation?(This feature allows for maximum application flexibility and optimization.)
- Hopping mode
Hopping mode allows for the measurement of multiple dyes that are not in sequence such as 325nm and 615nm and then 455nm and 525nm in a user defined routine.
- Full Scan Mode
Scan mode example: allows the user to conduct excitation profile scans to insure the sample has been loaded/washed properly by it excitation profile.
- Quick Scan mode
Allows the user to set different wavelengths in sequence at a rapid pace.
Does the RatioMaster™ DRX come with its own power supply?
YES, the RatioMaster™ system comes with all the necessary power supplies to be a completely independent system.
How do I know that the correct wavelength is being emitted from the RatioMaster™?
Every RatioMaster™ is tested through out the wavelength region to verify every wavelength at the factory. There are also standards available from PTI or recommended by PTI that you can use at any time to insure calibration.
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Light Transfer Portion (LLG) FAQs
How is the light delivered from the RatioMaster's excitation portion (DRX) to my microscope?
The light is collected from the DRX via a Liquid Light guide for maximum light delivery to the microscope.
Why would I use a Liquid light guide and not a fiber optic cable?
The DRX comes standard with a Liquid light guide due to the fact it delivers more than 30% more light than a fiber optic cable. A LLG is also more flexible than a fiber optic, where fibers can break if bent to far, a LLG is much more flexible with out compromising the throughput.
Can I use the RatioMaster's excitation portion to illuminate two microscopes?
Yes, you can have multiple microscope adaptors for the RatioMaster™ allowing the excitation portion of the system to be used for multiple microscopes in your lab.
How long is the Liquid Light Guide?
The LLG comes standard with a 2 meter length. However if you need to illuminate multiple scopes in your lab we do offer longer LLG's Check with your local representative for all of your options.
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Photometer and PMT's FAQs
What wavelength region can I cover with the Standard RatioMaster™ Photometer?
The RatioMaster™ comes standard with a R1527 low noise PMT tube 185-680 nm.
Can I get a different PMT tube to get more QE in different wavelengths?
YES, PTI offers a variety of PMT tubes to match your application. Please contact us for all your options.
How do I focus the light into the Photometer?
It is as simple as focusing the image to your eyes on the microscope's Binoculars, by moving the focus of the objective you can focus the light coming out of the side port into the photometer.
What does the LCD read out on the PMT housing display?
The built-in LCD displays high voltage the PMT is set to or analog signal level.
Can I upgrade the single PMT photometer for dual emission in the future? (For two wavelengths simultaneous read out)
YES, PTI has an upgrade kit to allow the user to upgrade the UMP to dual emission. The kit includes all the necessary adaptors, PMT and PMT housing for the user to install.
What size filters can I use in the filter holder of the photometer?
The photometer uses a standard 1" filter that can be changed by the user for multiple applications.
What does the eyepiece do for me?
The eyepiece is designed to allow the user to view the area of interest while moving the stage of the scope and using the UMP's aperture blades to narrow down onto the specific area you wish to measure.
How do I switch from the eyepiece to read out on the PMT?
It is as simple as flipping on a light switch, there is a thumb knob that you turn to direct the light from the eyepiece to the PMT.
What does the adjustable aperture blade do for me?
The adjustable aperture blades allow the user to create any size ROI on any area of the field of view.
What is the difference between Analog and Digital, Why do I need both?
Analog mode allows for high light levels with maximum dynamic range while with just a flip of a switch a user can go to Photon counting mode: for low signal, as in most ratio.
Can I use a Camera on the same port of the microscope as Photometer?
YES one key option that PTI has is a dual C mount adaptor that allows the user to install both Camera and Photometer onto the same port of the microscope. Reference option IM9 for more details.
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RatioMaster™ Electronic and Software FAQs
What software can I use with the RatioMaster™?
The RatioMaster™ comes with the renowned FeliX32™ software for both process control and analytical capabilities of all of your data.
I use Labview in my Lab can I control the RatioMaster™ in Labview?
Yes the RatioMaster™ is fully compatible with labview. We have example Vi's to help you implement the system into Labview.
What Operating systems can I use with FeliX32™?
Windows 98, Windows 2000, Windows NT-4 and Windows XP
What does the 32 in FeliX32™ stand for?
32-bit graphics capabilities, including sophisticated 3-dimensional plotting and full motion rotation. All major data handling packages are included: multi-exponential fits, global analysis, non-exponential analysis, anisotropy decay as well as maximum entropy methods.
I have a routine I need to run in the software can I write Macro's in FeliX32™?
Yes, the software comes with an easy to use VB based Macro recorder allowing for unsurpassed flexibility in acquisition, calculation and display of data.
Are there third party software packages that will run the RatioMaster™?
Yes, there are several software packages that will run the RatioMaster™. Check with your local representative for more information.
What kind of electronics do I need to run the RatioMaster™?
The RatioMaster™ comes with an electronic interface called the BryteBox to control both the excitation (DRX) and emission PMT's.
Do I need to install a Card in my PC like a PCI card?
No the BryteBox interface does not require you to install anything in your PC to control and read out the RatioMaster™ data.
Is it an advantage not to have a card in my PC?
Yes there is two main advantages. Ease of use, you can ever run the system from a notebook. "speed critical data acquisition electronics" from the host PC, there is NO need for an interface card to be plugged into the host computer bus. The host computer runs a controlling program and communicates instructions to the BryteBox. This process off loads the critical data acquisition tasks and frees up the host PC's processor. Since no data capture boards are on the host PC bus, hardware conflicts have essentially been eliminated, thus stabilizing the remote data capture system.
What kind of interface to my PC does the BryteBox have?
The standard interface is via Ethernet connection at10 MHz. There is the option for USB as well.
My Lab runs most of the devices via GPIB (IEEE) can I use the BryteBox?
Yes, PTI offer a GPIB interface that must be specified at the time purchase.
Can I run other instruments in my lab from the BryteBox?
Yes the BryteBox comes with several different Analog, (2) TTL IN and (2) TTL OUT , (1) full Chopper control and (2) Digital Inputs as well as (4) RS 232 com ports.
Can I use the RatioMaster™ with a MAC?
No, at this time PTI does not offer support for Mac OS. However Intel based Macs can run Windows XP via Apple's "BootCamp". FeliX32™ can run on Windows XP using Apple's "BootCamp".
Can I export my data from FeliX32™ into Excel?
Yes, PTI has an easy to use export function
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DeltaRAM XT FAQs
What kind of Microscopes can I use with the DRX?
The DRX can be used with any standard microscope.
What ports can I use the DRX on to illuminate my microscope?
PTI provides adaptors free of charge for both EPI and Direct port on the microscope.
What wavelength region can I cover with the Standard DRX?
The DRX covers any wavelength from 290nm to 650nm in increments of 0.5nm step sizes. If your application requires different wavelengths we can also accommodate that, please contact your local representative for details.
What is the difference between the DRX and a standard scanning mono?
The optical principles of light diffraction are the same however the function of how the wavelengths shift is the main difference. Where traditional mono's use a worm drive to change the wavelengths and DRX uses a galvanometer for high speed wavelength selection.
How does the galvanometer work?
The galvanometer allows the DRX to directly drive a flat mirror at high speeds, which changes the angle of incident at which the light is directed towards the grating. This allows the wavelengths to change at high speeds.
So how fast is the DRX vs. a standard scanning mono?
With the following parameters being the same for both systems:
- Start at 250nm and go to 450nm in 1nm steps and then back to 250nm.
- A standard mono would take 3.5 sec
- The DRX would take 0.2 sec
How many wavelengths can I really do in a second?
You can drive the DRX up to as many as 250 ratios' per second.
Why would I choose a tunable system over a filter wheel based system?
The simple fact is cost of ownership and flexibility. With a filter based system you only have the choice of up to 10 fixed wavelengths at a set band pass a reflective based system like the DRX allows the user to set any center wavelength at any band pass to optimize the current application as well as the future application. The cost of ownership is the fact that the DRX offers the customer a catalog of unlimited filter wavelengths and bandwidths. (Saving thousands of dollars.)
Why do other companies offer a more powerful light source? (to be completed)
The amount of light gathered by the system is dependent on the spot size of the focused beam, if the spot size is grater than the entrance slit width it is lost light. The ability to F match the light source to the diffraction portion of the system is the key to throughput. In fact the DRX's 75 Watt source is more powerful than a 150 Watt
What do the Bi-lateral Slits do for my applications?
Unlike filters, which have a set bandwidth, the DRX can adapt to your specific application needs with a continuous adjustment from 0 to 24nm. This feature is key in utilizing the full dynamic range of ratiometric dyes. For More information reference the PTI tech note: Draw backs of Filters
How is the light delivered from the DRX to my microscope?
The light is collected from the DRX via a Liquid Light guide for maximum light delivery to the microscope.
Why would I use a Liquid light guide and not a fiber optic cable?
The DRX comes standard with a Liquid light guide due to the fact it delivers more than 30% more light than a fiber optic cable. A LLG is also more flexible than a fiber optic, where fibers can break if bent to far, a LLG is much more flexible with out compromising the throughput.
How long does the Lamp last?
Our standard lamp 1000 hours or more.
Can I replace the lamp myself?
Yes, PTI has a written manual and a movie on our web site that takes you step by step through the installation and alignment o the lamp.
Can I use the DRX to illuminate two microscopes?
Yes, you can have multiple microscope adaptors for the DRX allowing the DRX to be used for multiple microscopes in your lab.
Why does the DRX come with an automatic shutter?
The automatic shutter prevents photo bleaching, by closing between wavelengths.
Why does the DRX come with different modes of operation?(This feature allows for maximum application flexibility and optimization.)
Hopping mode?
- Hopping mode allows for the measurement of multiple dyes that are not in sequence such as 325nm and 615nm and then 455nm and 525nm in a user defined routine.
Full Scan Mode
- Scan mode example: allows the user to conduct excitation profile scans to insure the sample has been loaded/washed properly by it excitation profile.
Quick Scan mode
- Allows the user to set different wavelengths in sequence at a rapid pace.
What software can I use with the DRX?
The DRX comes standard with a Labview vi that will allow full control of the DRX. (you do not need a version of Labview to run the DRX vi). The DRX can also be controlled by the following software packages:
- PTI's FeliX32™
- PTI's ImageMaster™
- MediaCy
- QED
- UIC
- And many more Check with your rep to find out all the options.
Does the DRX come with its own power supply?
YES, the DRX comes with it own power supply for both the DRX and lamp.
How do I focus the light into the system?
With every DRX system PTI provides both a manual and a movie illustrating the focus process.
What kind of electronics do I need to run the DRX?
The DRX comes with it's own built in electronic. a simple USB interface standard or optional RS 232 interface .
Is the DRX easy to install?
YES, PTI supplies a easy to use manual and has an installation video on our web site to illustrate the ease of use and set up.
What kind of computer can I use with the DRX?
The DRX interfaces with the computer via USB or RS 232, therefore it does not matter what kind of PC or Notebook that is used.
Can I use the DRX with a MAC?
Yes depending on the software you chose to use. Check with your local rep for more details
How do I know that the correct wavelength is being emitted from the DRX?
Every DRX is tested through out the wavelength region to verify every wavelength. Unlike a filter based system you have the flexibility to calibrate the DRX, depending on you detection method PTI has a verity of deferent calibration checks for you conduct at any time.
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FAQs
Specifications
