NIR_System_Specifications.docx

NIR System Specifications

Fourier Transformed Spectrometer:

· Resolution of 4cm-1 (0.3nm at 870nm) or better.

· A user changeable resolution such that resolution can be traded off against signal-to-noise ratio for different applications.

· The spectrometer shall have a long term (at least two weeks) wavenumber stability of 0.035cm-1 at 7181 cm-1 (0.007nm @ 1392 nm), or better.

· The spectrometer shall have a wavenumber or wavelength scale of 0.1 cm-1 at7181 cm-1 (0.019 nm @ 1392 nm), or better.

· A solid-state reference laser – a Helium-Neon laser in not acceptable due to their limited life and high replacement costs.

· The spectrometer wavenumber or wavelength scale shall be referenced to a laser or other mechanism with equivalent long-term stability.

· At least the wavenumber range 4000 cm-1 to 12800 cm-1 to capture all critical sugar components during harvesting (i.e. Brix, POL, sucrose, glucose, fructose, molasses, fiber, etc.).

· An internal validation unit and software that facilitate operational and performance qualification of the instrument without the need for external standards.

· The spectrometer shall operate from a 12V DC supply, maximum 3A, to allow for operation from a range common power sources, including battery or vehicle power.

· The infrared source shall have a mean time between failure of 20,000 hours or greater, and shall be user replaceable.

· The spectrometer shall be rated IP65 or better, weigh no more than 9kg (19.5 lb), no larger than 44 X 25 X 15 cm (17.5 x 9.5 x 6 in); making it portable for field use.

· Use an integrating sphere for reflectance measurements, to ensure effective averaging of the measuring area and scattering angles.

· For effective averaging of inhomogeneous samples, the beam size at the sample shall be at least 23 mm diameter, with a rotating cup assembly shall be available that increase the measured area to at least 40 cm2.

· The unit must come equipped with all operational software relevant to research station needs, and accessories that maximize throughput during harvest season.

· Item must have an extended 5 year warranty for the unit’s longevity during heavy usage in the mill and in the field.