A Photodetector-Synchronized Rapid Scanning Spectrometer with A Rotating Grating Directly Driven By A Synchronous Motor

A new type of rapid scanning spectrometer was constructed for use in analytical atomic spectroscopy. The sine-bar and its driving system are disabled and the grating is driven directly by a synchronous motor. The wavelength synchronization is made by counting the photopulses generated by the combination of a small tungsten lamp, a phototransistor and a slotted aluminium disc which is attached to the shaft of the rotating grating. In an on-line and real-time mode, a variety of measurements can be achieved by a dedicated microcomputer. The basic analytical performance was evaluated and some applications are demonstrated.