168 Beckman Coulter Programmable Diode Array Detector Module

The Beckman Coulter 168 Programmable Detector Module (PDM) is a diode array UV/Vis HPLC detector designed as a part of the HPLC system software. The 168 PDM does not have conventional front panel controls, but is digitally controlled and monitored by a computer running Beckman Coulter software.

The 168 PDM communicates with the computer and 32 Karat Software via a two-way digital bus. The 168 PDM, like all Beckman Coulter HPLC modules, is intelligent, containing its own microprocessors and memory. The digital communication between the computer and the detector assures high accuracy, and allows the detector to send messages to the computer concerning its status. The detector output (absorbance values) is sent to the computer digitally, eliminating the need for analog to digital conversion. The detector also has analog outputs for connection to other data systems.

The 168 PDM optics contain a sealed polychromator with mirrors, diffraction grating, and array. The polychromator is sealed to prevent light loss from dust particles in the air, to inhibit noise due to air currents and to stop stray light. The polychromator is aligned at the factory so that the lamp assembly can be easily installed without adjustment. The slit is an integral part of the flowcell.

The detector flowcell is designed to minimize band broadening as well as thermal and refractive index effects. Analytical, semi-preparative and microbore flowcells are all available in stainless steel.