Abstract: Aspects relate to a handheld spectroscopy scanner including an optical window configured to receive a sample and a housing having the optical window thereon. The housing further includes therein a light source and a spectral sensor including a light modulator and a detector. The scanner housing further includes a processor configured to receive a spectrum of the sample from the spectral sensor based on interaction of light produced by the light source with the sample on the optical window. The processor is further configured to produce spectral data based on the sample spectrum for input to an artificial intelligence engine to produce a result based on the spectral data. In addition, the scanner housing may include a flange holding the light source and a heat sink configured to dissipate the internal heat generated. The housing further includes a cavity forming a handle for easy operation of the handheld spectroscopy scanner.