Abstract: Raman band detection apparatus illuminates a sample using an illumination source that oscillates in wavelength over a range. The source might for example switch between two wavelengths or might traverse the wavelength range. A wavelength sensitive detector detects radiation emitted by the sample at a series of different wavelengths and a signal processor extracts signals that have a temporal correspondence to the wavelength variation of the illumination at the different wavelengths. One or more Raman bands that might be present will produce a distinctive characteristic of the extracted signals plotted against a spectral axis and relatively simple processing of these spectrally-related time-varying components can then enhance the appearance of the Raman band in a spectral representation based on the processed components.

Abstract: A light source system in which light scattered inside a chamber (2) exits from a hole (3) to provide a light output from the system. The interior wall of the chamber (2) consists of a material which is very efficient at scattering incident light. Light emitted from a light source (1) undergoes at least one scattering event within the chamber (2) before escaping from the chamber (2) through the exit hole (3). Any geometrical attributes of the light from the source (1) are removed before the light exists from the chamber (2). The exit hole (3) can have a tube inside (4) and/or outside (5) the chamber (2) for collimating the light output. A mechanical shutter (7, 8) can be used as a simple dimmer mechanism for the light output from the system. The light source (1) can be positioned inside or outside the chamber (2).