PIKE XY Autosampler (also known as the X,Y Autosampler)
The PIKE XY Autosampler is a high-efficiency automated sampling accessory designed for high-throughput FTIR analysis, accommodating standard 24, 48, or 96-well microplate architectures for both reflection and transmission measurements.
Product Overview
The PIKE XY Autosampler is an advanced in-compartment accessory engineered to bring high-speed automation to standard FTIR spectrometers. Designed around industry-standard microplate formats, it enables the unattended analysis of large sample batches, significantly improving laboratory productivity and consistency. The accessory is versatile enough to handle a wide range of applications, including the analysis of liquid residues, chemical reactions, and powdered samples through automated diffuse reflection or transmission modes.
At the core of the XY Autosampler is a precision stage driven by high-performance motors, providing a repeatability of +/- 5 µm. Its optical design utilizes a high-efficiency ellipsoidal reflector that condenses the infrared beam onto the sample with a 3X de-magnification, creating a ~2 mm spot size ideal for 96-well configurations. To ensure data integrity, the system features a fully enclosed, purgeable housing with a convenient "CD-style" front-loading tray that moves outside the accessory for easy sample exchange while maintaining the internal purge environment.
The system is fully integrated with PIKE's AutoPRO™ software, which allows users to program custom mapping profiles and save data collection protocols for seamless operation with most major FTIR software packages. Whether configured with standard aluminum optics or gold-coated components for maximum NIR/Mid-IR performance, the XY Autosampler provides a robust and scalable platform for modern analytical laboratories.
Key Features
- High-Throughput Automation: Supports standard 24, 48, or 96-well microplates for rapid, unattended sample loading and analysis.
- Dual Sampling Modes: Easily configurable for either Diffuse Reflection of powders or Transmission measurements of liquids and films.
- Precision Motion Control: Features an X,Y stage driven by high-precision motors with optical encoders for exceptional speed and reproducibility.
- Integrated Detectors: Transmission versions can be equipped with dedicated DTGS or InGaAs detectors to optimize sensitivity for specific spectral regions.
- Advanced Optical Design: 3X beam de-magnification via an ellipsoidal reflector ensures a concentrated beam for high signal-to-noise ratios.
- Purgeable Enclosure: Fully enclosed design with a motorized loading tray conserves the spectrometer's purge during sample exchanges.
- AutoPRO™ Software: Intuitive interface for generating custom mapping patterns and automating multi-operator sample submissions.
- Gold-Coated Optics Option: Optional gold-coated reflective surfaces available for enhanced performance in the Mid-IR and NIR regions.
Specifications
| Optical Design | Elliptical – 3X Beam De-magnification |
| Angle of Incidence | 30° (nominal) |
| Repeatability | +/- 5 µm |
| Resolution | 1 µm |
| Accuracy | +/- 25 µm |
| Run Time (96-well) | ~56 seconds (actual time is spectrometer dependent) |
| Sample Spot Size | ~2 mm |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 6.25 x 13.2 x 5.55 inches (including micrometer) |
| Weight | 10 lbs |
| Interface | USB and DC power |