What is the difference between an analytical balance and a precision balance?

An analytical balance provides readability of 0.1 mg or better, while a precision balance typically reads to 0.001 g or 0.01 g. Analytical balances include draft shields and are designed for highly sensitive measurements. Precision balances handle larger samples and are less affected by environmental conditions.

What readability do I need for my lab application?

You need a readability that is at least one-tenth of your smallest sample weight or required measurement increment. For example, measuring 100 mg samples may require 0.01 mg readability, while gram-level work may only need 0.01 g. Selecting higher readability than necessary increases cost without improving results.

Do lab balances need to be calibrated?

Yes, all lab balances require regular calibration to maintain accuracy. Calibration ensures measurements remain traceable to certified standards. Internal calibration simplifies this process by automating adjustments, while external calibration requires manual verification with certified weights. In regulated environments, calibration records must be documented and retained.

What is the difference between readability and repeatability?

Readability is the smallest increment of weight a balance will display. Repeatability is the degree of agreement between multiple measurements of the same mass, on the same balance, under the same conditions.

What is the best way to clean my balance to ensure accurate readings?

Inspect and clean before each use. A flannel cloth or soft brush works well for dusting and light cleaning. Use a non-abrasive cleaner for light spills, and a dry flannel cloth for glass parts. Set a regular maintenance schedule for deep cleaning to ensure optimal performance and instrument longevity.

Can vibration affect the accuracy of my balance?

Yes — even slight vibration from a heavy footstep can affect accuracy. Place the balance on a sturdy benchtop away from high-traffic areas such as hallways, elevators, stairways, and doors. If that placement is not possible, an anti-vibration table should be considered.

How to Choose a Spectrophotometer | Antylia Scientific Blog

What is a spectrophotometer?

Spectrometers, or spectrophotometers, are analytical instruments used to identify or confirm the chemical species, chemical structure, or concentration of substances in a sample. Spectrophotometers will emit an energy source to pass through a solution and measure light intensity at different wavelengths. If the solution is high in molecular concentration, then more light will be absorbed. In most cases, a sample submitted for spectrometric analysis must be very pure to avoid poor or contaminated results. Spectrometers are generally comprised of a light or energy source (typically a lamp), a filter (or monochromator) to set desired wavelengths of which to read, a place for cuvettes or blanks, and a radiation detector (or phototube) to convert the energy received during the experiment into a measurable signal.

Important criteria to consider when selecting a spectrophotometer:

Detection limits
The density, shape, or size of the product you wish to measure
Wavelength range
Analytical working range
Sample throughput (single sample vs. multi-sample)
Data quality
Cost of instrument and associated consumables
Customizable and/or pre-configured method options
Measurement time
Footprint of instrument

Learn more. Read our Spectroscopy Selection Guide

New Jenway 74 Series Spectrophotometers Feature CPLive™ Connectivity

Jenway Genova Bio UV VIS Spectrophotometer Measures Wavelength in Under 3 Seconds

2 Comments on "How to Choose a Spectrophotometer"

Mike Thomas | January 1, 2023 at 1:25 am | Reply

Hi, I am writing to you with the hope that you may be able to help me with my research.
I like to start a quality water lab to check the tap water quality. I live in Victoria, BC. Canada, and to be truthful with you I don’t know what equipment I need for this lab.
Please help if you can
- Antylia Scientific Blog Team | January 3, 2023 at 9:27 am | Reply
  
  Hi Mike:
  I will forward your email to our technical experts at Environmental Express. Thanks!

How to Choose a Spectrophotometer

What is a spectrophotometer?

Important criteria to consider when selecting a spectrophotometer:

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2 Comments on "How to Choose a Spectrophotometer"

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