As with most types of laboratory equipment there are always variations in size depending on the specific model. For most of the larger standard sized and types of UV spectrophotometer the dimensions include a height of 620 mm, width of 400 mm and height of 280 mm. That works out to approximately 25 by 16 by 11 inches. Other models are a smaller 19 by 16 by 6 inches in approximate measurements. Of course models with printers and additional components are often larger, but not necessarily by a huge difference. Weight will also vary by tends to range between twenty five and thirty pounds.

UV spectrophotometer, like most laboratory equipment, will have a standard one year manufacturer's warranty. These pieces of equipment are very well made and typically have very few operating issues when used under the manufacturer's recommendations in a lab or testing facility.

Most standard lab spectrophotometers require one light source, most commonly a tungsten halogen bulb, which produces one beam for operation. A UV spectrophotometer has two separate bulbs, one that is the same as the light source found in a lab spectrophotometer and one that is unique, a deuterium lamp. Although the UV spectrophotometer only uses one light source to create the information, both bulbs are used to create the range of light needed. Models of UV spectrophotometers will also have several different scanning speeds to allow testing of different types of materials in the samples. These speeds range from low to medium to high with a maximum speed of 1000nm per minute. The machines do use a similar found position cell holder as a standard cell holder but typically much smaller samples can be used in a UV spectrophotometer than in a standard lab spectrophotometer.

Different systems of lab spectrophotometers offer various features that are either standard or accessories to the equipment. One feature that is fairly standard is a Peltier or zipper package that allows flowthru and constant and continuous temperature control. This is going to be important when testing different materials that may be temperature sensitive. A sample compartment that can be adjusted to suit the size of the sample is another important accessory that is standard in most models of lab spectrophotometers. This provides more opportunity for testing even small sample sizes as opposed to having a standard sized sample for each and every test. Cuvette holds that have different positions are also an important feature that makes the equipment both practical and easy to use. Standard four position cuvette holders are ideal for almost every use and typically are all that a lab will require. Auto zero functions on your laboratory spectrophotometer are also standard on many models but are an important consideration. This function prevents unnecessary errors as technicians can always be assured that the equipment is zeroed and ready to use after each and every test.

Accuracy, dependability and the ability to repeat tests with the same results are the most important functions of a lab spectrophotometer. Since this equipment is likely to be used frequently in most labs it is essential that the data and information be accurate with each and every test run. This means that wavelength accuracy and wavelength repeatability have to be very specific, a good number is plus or minus two nanometers for most types of lab work.

The stray light within the laboratory spectrophotometer should be rated at less that zero point three percent to ensure that readings are consistent and repeatable regardless of the day or time when the reading and test was originally completed. Since most lab spectrophotometers will use a standard tungsten halogen lamp this is also an important consideration. This light source is highly dependable and consistent, again leading to repeatable readings without any concerns of deviations on tests.

A built-in printer with a lab spectrophotometer is a great feature and one well worth considering. Not only does it help with actually recording the results of the spectrophotometer, but it also can help your tests stay accurate and clear. The laboratory spectrophotometer's printer will generate a document that can then be recorded without any concern that numbers have been jotted down incorrectly or locating specific results on forms that may end up at the other end of the lab by the end of the day. In addition, the printer feature provides a back up of information for verification and retrieval if data is misplaced or lost. A built in printer can help the lab stay efficient, which is always the most important consideration.