Abstract: A microplate reader simultaneously obtains Raman measurements from samples contained in non-adjacent wells. At least two Raman probes are positioned perpendicularly above or below the microplate to simultaneously acquire Raman spectra data of the non-adjacent liquid samples. Each probe is coupled to a laser and a spectrometer and includes a lens focusing laser light within the sample and collecting light from the sample for the spectrometer. The spectrometer may include a 2D imaging sensor (sCMOS or CCD) to image light from multiple probes simultaneously, spaced from one another to reduce crosstalk. A positioner moves the microplate plate or probes to acquire data from a different subset of non-adjacent samples, and may also vary laser focus within wells during data acquisition. Multiple fluorescence probes may simultaneously acquire fluorescence data from the same samples, or non-adjacent samples. Probes may be fiber-coupled and positioned within a reaction chamber of a liquid handling system.

Abstract: A system and method for spectroscopic mapping, with configurable spatial resolution, of an object include a fiber optic bundle having a plurality of optical fibers arranged in a first array at an input end with each of the plurality of optical fibers spaced one from another and arranged in at least one linear array at an output end. A first mask defining a plurality of apertures equal to or greater in number than the plurality of optical fibers is positioned between an object to be imaged and the input end of the fiber optic bundle. An imaging spectrometer is positioned to receive light from the output end of the fiber optic bundle and to generate spectra of the object. A sensor associated with the imaging spectrometer converts the spectra to electrical output signals for processing by an associated computer.

Abstract: Controlling humidity at the surface of a solution containing analyte and ligand, e.g., for an assay, is disclosed, wherein the control of the humidity induces evaporative stirring in the solution to bring analyte and ligand into contact more quickly than when using diffusion. An oven which blows air in a controlled stream across slides, with wells containing reagent and analyte, is disclosed. Also disclosed is optical tape which can replace a conventional glass coverslip used for viewing of the reaction results.