Varian Inc has launched its newest UV-Vis detector for HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography) applications, which operates across an extended wavelength range (190nm to 900nm), and provides the highest signal-to-noise ratio on the market for dual wavelength detection. For preparative HPLC applications, the UV-Vis detector enables extended linear absorbance up to 70 AU, or up to 40 absorbance units higher than most competitive UV-Vis detectors.

Used by scientific researchers in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, environmental, food/beverage and numerous other industries, HPLC detectors employ a photodiode to measure the amount of light absorbed as liquid samples pass through the detector's light path. For example, when integrated with a HPLC, the detector measures the separation of the compounds and determines the quantity, based on calibration standards, of each compound isolated by the HPLC.

Upgradeable from a single to dual wavelength detector, the system can be integrated into any competitive HPLC instrument or can operate as a stand-alone detector. In its single wavelength mode, it has signal-to-noise specifications equivalent to top-of-the-line UV-Vis detectors and in its dual wavelength mode, offers unparalleled signal-to-noise improvements versus other competitive products. Additionally, the system can monitor two wavelengths simultaneously throughout the entire wavelength range utilizing a deuterium lamp in the ultraviolet spectrum or a quartz halogen lamp in the visible range. Coupled with dual pathlength flow cells, the extended absorbance range saves time by reducing the typical number of dilutions required for concentrated samples.