Analytical and Specialized Research: Accurate Measurement and Controlled Atmospheres
- Reagent and standard preparation
- Colorimetric and enzymatic assays
- Nucleic acid and protein quantification
- Optical density of cultures
- Anaerobic microbiology
- Hypoxia research
Choosing Balances and Spectrophotometers
| If you need to… | Choose |
|---|---|
| Weigh milligram quantities of standards and reagents | MRC analytical balance with draft shield |
| Weigh media, buffers and larger samples | MRC precision balance |
| Run colorimetric assays and optical density | SPECTRO-V16 or V18 visible spectrophotometer (320–1100 nm) |
| Quantify DNA, RNA and proteins in the UV | SPECTRO-UV16 or UV18 UV-Vis spectrophotometer (190–1100 nm) |
| Resolve sharp absorbance peaks | A 2 nm bandwidth model (V18 or UV18) |
| Control the instrument and store data on a PC | A PC version with USB control |
Anaerobic and Hypoxia Research
Catalogues and Compliance Documents
Frequently Asked Questions
Analytical or precision balance?
Analytical balances have finer readability and a draft shield for small quantities such as standards and reagents; precision balances weigh larger loads, such as media and buffers, with coarser readability. Many labs need both.
Visible or UV-Vis spectrophotometer?
Visible models (320–1100 nm) cover colorimetric assays and optical density. UV-Vis models (190–1100 nm) add UV measurements such as nucleic acid and protein quantification, which need quartz or UV-transparent cuvettes.
What does spectral bandwidth mean?
The width of the band of light used for each reading. A narrower bandwidth (2 nm) resolves sharp peaks better than a wider one (4 nm). MRC SPECTRO models offer both.
How do I keep balance readings accurate?
Place the balance on a stable bench away from drafts and heat, level it, let it warm up, and calibrate it regularly to suit your quality procedures.
Which anaerobic chamber size do I need?
Choose by the number of Petri dishes you incubate: MRC AW-series chambers hold from 220 to 800 dishes, with single or dual gas supply.
How is residual oxygen verified?
With an oxygen analyser such as the MRC Porta-O2-PPM, which measures from 1,000 down to 1 ppm.