Abstract: An analytical induction furnace and method for combusting conductive sample materials (500) utilizing a crucible for holding a sample within the induction furnace. Less than one gram of accelerator material is then inserted into the crucible with the sample and the induction furnace is activated for a predetermined time period (503) for thoroughly combusting the sample and accelerator. In some instances, no accelerator is required with the sample at frequencies of approximately 4.5 MHz. The invention provides for the induction furnace that is actuated in an RF frequency range between 2-9 MHz with little to no accelerator for thoroughly melting the sample for use in an analytical instrument.

Abstract: An astronomy camera with a CMOS detector with non-destructive read capability displays images of a scene being captured as the image is exposed. The apparatus has a detector with non-destructive read capability which allows data to be read out without resetting the detector to provide a user with updated images as the image is being exposed. This enables users to save the images at various states of the exposure and to end the exposure at will.

Abstract: A power supply (300) includes a rectification means (303) for providing a voltage from an AC mains input (301). An inverter (307) is used for supplying a switched AC voltage at high frequency from the rectified voltage to a transformer (311) for modifying the amplitude and/or providing galvanic isolation of the switched AC voltage. Output rectification (313) is used to convert the switched AC voltage at the secondary of the transformer back to a rectified voltage. An inductor (309) is used in series with the primary of the transformer (311) for reducing the peak and ripple current in both the primary and secondary of the transformer while minimizing or eliminating the need for an inductive component in the output filter of the supply.

Abstract: An analytical induction furnace and method for combusting conductive sample materials (500) utilizing a crucible for holding a sample within the induction furnace. Less than one gram of accelerator material is then inserted into the crucible with the sample and the induction furnace is activated for a predetermined time period (503) for thoroughly combusting the sample and accelerator. In some instances, no accelerator is required with the sample at frequencies of approximately 4.5 MHz. The invention provides for the induction furnace that is actuated in an RF frequency range between 2-9 MHz with little to no accelerator for thoroughly melting the sample for use in an analytical instrument.