On-line Differential Refractometers for HPLC and UHPLC
Optilab®
An on-line differential refractometer with extended range for universal concentration and dn/dc measurements.
The Optilab provides both exquisite sensitivity and 50 times the dynamic range of every other RI detector available. It is the only on-line detector offering temperature control both above and below ambient, as well as measurement of the absolute refractive index of solvents. A high concentration version measures protein concentration up to 180 mg/mL.
microOptilab™
Universal concentration measurement for use with all UHPLC systems.
The microOptilab is a unique Refractive Index detector that offers high sensitivity and 50 times the dynamic range of every other UHPLC RI detector. Like the Optilab, it offers temperature control both above and below ambient, as well as measurement of the absolute refractive index of solvents.
Feature Comparison
| Capabilities | Optilab® | Optilab® High Conc. | microOptilab™ |
| Differential Refractive Index | |||
| Range | -0.0047 to +0.0047 RIU | -0.0026 to +0.034 RIU | -0.0047 to +0.0047 RIU |
| Peak-to-Peak Noise | ± 7.5 x 10-10 RIU | ± 1.5 x 10-9 RIU | ± 1.5 x 10-9 RIU |
| Dynamic Range | 12,000,000:1 | 23,000,000:1 | 6,000,000:1 |
| Acquisition Period | 0.1 to 5 seconds/sample | 0.1 to 5 seconds/sample | 0.04 to 5 seconds/sample |
| Absolute Refractive Index | |||
| Range | 1.2 to 1.8 RIU | 1.2 to 1.8 RIU | 1.2 to 1.8 RIU |
| Sensitivity | ± 0.002 RIU | ± 0.002 RIU | ± 0.002 RIU |
| Fluidics | |||
| Band Broadening | < 20 µL | < 20 µL | < 4 µL |
| Flow Cell & Inlet Tubing Volume | 51.4 µL | 51.4 µL | 13.9 µL |
| Sample Temperature | 4 °C to 65 °C | 4 °C to 65 °C | 4 °C to 65 °C |