Expanding the capabilities of laboratory instruments using built-in microprocessors and serial interfaces: adapting an LKB Ultrospec II UV spectrophotometer for scanning and enzyme kinetic analyses

Comput Biol Med. 1993 Mar;23(2):131-41. doi: 10.1016/0010-4825(93)90144-p.

Abstract

An IBM-compatible microcomputer was used to enable an LKB Ultrospec II UV-Visible spectrophotometer to perform two features which are not available on the basic unit: wavelength scanning and enzyme kinetic analyses. The spectrophotometer was controlled using a simple BASIC program, an RS232c interface and the instrument's own built-in microprocessor. This technique required no special analogue to digital conversion hardware or software and only a rudimentary knowledge of programming. User-designed software permits a greater degree of flexibility in routines and output formats than is offered in most pre-programmed instruments, while offering substantial savings.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Data Display
  • Enzymes / analysis
  • Enzymes / chemistry
  • L-Lactate Dehydrogenase / chemistry
  • Lactates / analysis
  • Lactates / chemistry
  • Microcomputers*
  • NAD / analysis
  • NAD / chemistry
  • Oxidation-Reduction
  • Programming Languages
  • Pyruvates / analysis
  • Pyruvates / chemistry
  • Software
  • Spectrophotometry, Ultraviolet / instrumentation*

Substances

  • Enzymes
  • Lactates
  • Pyruvates
  • NAD
  • L-Lactate Dehydrogenase