Abstract: A low cost benchtop molecular beacons (oligonucleotide probes) reader utilizes an array of light emitting diodes to excite the fluorescence of the reaction of the combining of the molecular beacons with actual DNA strands. If the Molecular beacons match with the DNA the reaction will fluoresce a known wavelengths. If there is no match, the reaction will not fluoresce. The molecular beacons reader uses an array of light emitting diodes at given wavelengths. The unit also incorporates the proper filters depending on the wavelength required. The unit has interchangeable cartridges with the filters and light emitting diodes that can be easily changed. The system is used after the PCR process (polymerase chain reaction) and the samples are viewed in PCR strips or PCR plates directly out of a thermocycler. This unit serves as a low cost go-no-go test with easy to use equipment.

Abstract: Operation of a vapor lamp light source for instrumentation utilizes a lamp manager controller for instant-on and precise temperature control to enhance and control output at specified wavelengths by monitoring and discriminating the spectral output of the lamp, and adjusting lamp current and temperature to maintain specific wavelength and light flux. Specific wavelengths can be selected and the wavelength automatically monitored for output level by control of a cold spot by an electrothermal device and a monitor. Lamp temperature, current and flux level at a selected wavelength are controlled.

Abstract: A lamp configuration particularly for infrared radiation provides an internal arrangement and environment adapted to overcome failure modes of prior art broad band infrared sources, and may incorporate optical elements including spectral filters and lenses enabling wavelength selection, beam shaping, external focusing, collimating, and wave front shaping. It also facilitates optical coupling to external devices including a rotating mirror, shutter and modulator devices.

Abstract: A low pressure gas discharge lamp of the capillary bore type is equipped with a temperature control system whereby the electrode containment section and the light output section of the lamp are at higher temperatures than the capillary bore section. Vapor flow from the higher temperature sections to the relatively low capillary bore section maintains a satisfactory vapor fill in the bore section for attainment of a high light output. In one arrangement, the temperature control system includes a heater and a heat sink at selected points along the lamp envelope. In another form of the invention, the control system is solely a heat sink in thermal contact with the capillary bore section.

Abstract: A miniature gas discharge lamp having a direct physical connection with an end portion of an external optical fiber. Light generated within the lamp is directed against an end face of the optical fiber to cause light rays to travel within and along the fiber. The lamp has an elongated straight passage for containment of a radiation-producing gas, the passage being axially aligned with the optical fiber so that substantially all of the photon energy generated within the passage is optically connected to the end face of the fiber.