Monochromator / Imaging Spectrograph

A monochromator is a device used to produce monochromatic light in order to determine the optical characteristics of a particular material. Many types of spectrometers and spectrophotometers rely on monochromators for light production of a uniform wavelength. In a basic monochromator setup, light is passed through a slit and bounced off of a mirror where it hits a dispersion element. The dispersion element is either a prism (reflected light) or a diffraction grating (refracted light). The dispersed light is then passed through another slit which only allows one wavelength of light to pass through. In an imaging spectrograph, the slit is replaced with a detector such as a CCD camera.

Some things to consider when purchasing a monochromator:

• Dispersion element: whether it is a prism or diffraction grating
• Wavelength range: most will cover the visible spectrum, but some will go beyond into the UV or IR spectra ranges
• Sectral resolution
• Signal-to-noise ratio

Click on the links below to compare Monochromator / Imaging Spectrograph systems from various manufacturers: