Abstract: A portable data collection device includes a FT-NIR spectrometer operable with a direct current (DC) power input, a hand-held probe having a large sampling area, a portable computer operable with a DC power input and configured for operation of the FT-NIR spectrometer; and a portable electric power source for providing a DC power output. The components of the portable data collection device are contained within a portable carrier. The portable data collection device is used onsite to obtain a spectra from a material sample. The spectra is sent by the portable computer of the portable data collection device to a remote computer/server. Application methods stored in a remote database analyze the spectra to obtain desired trait results for the material sample. The obtained results are stored on a remote database and can be displayed on a screen of an on-site mobile device.

Abstract: A process for detecting low levels of a predetermined quality trait present in an inhomogeneously distributed particulate substrate involving the steps of: (a) providing a particulate substrate to be analyzed; (b) providing a spectrometer with an electromagnetic detector capable of performing spectroscopic measurements with electromagnetic radiation; (c) providing a rotatable sample holder having a transparent area through which electromagnetic radiation may pass; (d) providing a tumbling member located within the rotatable sample holder for tumbling the particulate substrate contained therein; (e) introducing the particulate substrate into the rotatable sample holder; (f) simultaneously rotating and tumbling the particulate substrate contained within the rotatable sample holder; and (g) activating the spectrometer, thereby illuminating the particulate substrate contained within the rotatable sample holder with electromagnetic radiation.

Abstract: A process for detecting low levels of a predetermined quality trait present in an inhomogeneously distributed particulate substrate involving the steps of: (a) providing a particulate substrate to be analyzed; (b) providing a spectrometer with an electromagnetic detector capable of performing spectroscopic measurements with electromagnetic radiation; (c) providing a rotatable sample holder having a transparent area through which electromagnetic radiation may pass; (d) providing a tumbling member located within the rotatable sample holder for tumbling the particulate substrate contained therein; (e) introducing the particulate substrate into the rotatable sample holder; (f) simultaneously rotating and tumbling the particulate substrate contained within the rotatable sample holder; and (g) activating the spectrometer, thereby illuminating the particulate substrate contained within the rotatable sample holder with electromagnetic radiation.