Abstract: There are disclosed methods and apparatus (10) for measuring Raman spectral features (52) of a sample (12), from which background light of variable intensity is also received, for example due to the incidence of ambient light (14) or due to variable fluorescence. Detection pixels (42) and storage pixels (44) are defined on a CCD device (40). Laser probe light (22) is directed to the sample. In a repeated cycle of first and second intervals, in each first interval background light is received at detection pixels, and in each second interval both background light and scattered laser probe light is received at the detection pixels. The accumulated signal from each of the first and second intervals is retained in the storage pixels during the second and first intervals respectively. In other aspects laser probe light is directed to the sample during both of the first and second intervals, but has a different wavelength in each interval.

Abstract: There are disclosed methods and apparatus (10) for measuring Raman spectral features (52) of a sample (12), from which background light of variable intensity is also received, for example due to the incidence of ambient light (14) or due to variable fluorescence. Detection pixels (42) and storage pixels (44) are defined on a CCD device (40). Laser probe light (22) is directed to the sample. In a repeated cycle of first and second intervals, in each first interval background light is received at detection pixels, and in each second interval both background light and scattered laser probe light is received at the detection pixels. The accumulated signal from each of the first and second intervals is retained in the storage pixels during the second and first intervals respectively. In other aspects laser probe light is directed to the sample during both of the first and second intervals, but has a different wavelength in each interval.

Abstract: An imaging device using an array of active pixels, with a readout control for outputting from selected regions of interest is disclosed. When used to detect the positions of optically trapped objects, the fast readout rate enables fine control of the optical traps to stabilize the objects. Multiple objects can be controlled while being moved relative to each other.

Abstract: A device for manipulation by a plurality of optical traps is disclosed. Connected trapping elements such as transparent beads are also connected to a tip, which is spaced from the trapping elements by a distance greater than the effective range of the optical trapping fields.

Abstract: An imaging device using an array of active pixels, with a readout control for outputting from selected regions of interest is disclosed. When used to detect the positions of optically trapped objects, the fast readout rate enables fine control of the optical traps to stabilize the objects. Multiple objects can be controlled while being moved relative to each other.

Abstract: A device for manipulation by a plurality of optical traps is disclosed. Connected trapping elements such as transparent beads are also connected to a tip, which is spaced from the trapping elements by a distance greater than the effective range of the optical trapping fields.