Patent ID: 6281501
Filing Date: 2001-08-28
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
A multiple gain, hand-held analyzer, said analyzer comprising:an analyzer body configured to receive in a sample-receiving portion thereof of a sample to be analyzed;a source which emits 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; andmeans 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; andwherein said second gain factor is of a magnitude sufficient to permit said analyzer to be used to analyze a sample of grain packed within a cuvette and disposed, in said cuvette, in said sample-receiving portion.