Nicolet Technologies (later Thermo Nicolet and Thermo Scientific) is a historic pioneer in Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Because 'FT-IR' represents a broad class of instruments spanning several generations of spectrometers (including the Nicolet Avatar, Nexus, Magna, iS, and Summit series) rather than a single specific model, numerical parameters such as size, weight, spectral resolution, and signal-to-noise ratio vary by specific instrument configuration. However, core architectural features like the Michelson interferometer design, HeNe reference laser calibration, OMNIC software control, and versatile sampling compatibility are shared across the Nicolet family.
Specifications
Optical Performance and Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Interferometer Design | Michelson interferometer (with auto-alignment or dynamic alignment options depending on model) |
| Beamsplitter Material Options | KBr, XT-KBr, CaF2, Quartz, or Mylar (model and spectral range dependent) |
| Light Source Standard | Ever-Glo mid-IR source, halogen, or ceramic (model dependent) |
| Detector Options Standard | DTGS (Deuterated Triglycine Sulfate), MCT (Mercury Cadmium Telluride), or InGaAs (model dependent) |
Software and Data Handling
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating Software Compatibility | OMNIC Software Suite |
Sampling and Optical Pathway
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Automated Accessory Recognition | Supported (Smart Accessories with automatic parameter configuration on compatible models) |
| Compatible Sampling Modalities Transmission | Supported |
| Compatible Sampling Modalities Attenuated Total Reflection ATR | Supported (via dedicated Smart ATR or generic accessories) |
| Compatible Sampling Modalities Diffuse Reflectance DRIFTS | Supported |
| Compatible Sampling Modalities Specular Reflectance | Supported |
Technology
Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR)
Applications
Chemical analysis, compound identification, materials characterization, and quality control