Patent ID: 6369388
Filing Date: 2002-04-09
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
A multiple gain, hard-held analyzer, said analyzer comprising:an analyzer body configured to receive in a sample-receiving portion thereof a sample to be analyzed; a source which emits near-infrared electromagnetic radiation at a desired wavelength, said source positioned with respect to said sample-receiving portion to emit radiation through a sample received in said sample-receiving portion; an electromagnetic radiation receptor positioned such that electromagnetic radiation emitted by said source and passing through a sample received in said sample-receiving portion strikes said receptor, said receptor causing a first signal to be produced which is proportional to the intensity of electromagnetic radiation striking said receptor, said analyzer being configured such that said first signal is selectively amplified by a gain factor selected from a plurality of available gain factors to produce a second signal; and means for analyzing said second signal to determine a parameter of interest of a sample received in said sample-receiving portion; wherein said analyzer is of a size and weight which permit said analyzer to be carried by hand and transported from one location to another for non-laboratory-bound field use; wherein said analyzer is configured to be calibrated with said sample-receiving portion empty except for ambient air present therein, said first signal being amplified by a first gain factor when said analyzer is being calibrated and said first signal being amplified by a second gain factor when a sample is received in said sample-receiving portion and is being analyzed, said second gain factor being larger than said first gain factor.