NanoSight FAQs
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What is the smallest size I can detect?
- Well the annoying answer is its sample dependent
- If its a biological or low refractive material like protein then its unlikely you can detect below 50nm
- If its a refractive material like Au then 10nm is possible with a suitable camera and laser.
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What is the largest particle size I can work with?
- That also depend, generally we think 2000nm or 2 microns is a good rule
- Dense materials may settle and upset measurement
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What parameter/value must I use when running Latex standards on a Nanosight NTA analysis?
- the correct value is the Modal value in the NanoSight results, not the mean.
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Are bubbles a problem?
- YES as they will be measured, can cause flare and can disturb sample introduction and sample stability
- Great care must be take to avoid introducing bubbles and in stopping leaks.
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Are leaks a problem?
- If you have leaks that cannot simply be corrected, contact an engineer.
- However a constant slow drift of sample particles across the measuring zone is corrected for with version 2.3 and 3.0 software.
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Can I use my own PC?
- Not really is the simple answer.
- The specification of a high end Computer and the installation, wiring and configuration of very specific drivers and ports is unusually demanding.
- If you must supply what you think is a suitable computer, it has to go to Malvern (at your cost and risk) for configuration and testing and this will be charged for.
- We will take no responsibility for PCs not sourced via NanoSight/Malvern and this means if the instrument doesn’t work with “your” computer, we will only advise, not accept any liability for the problem..
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Can I supply the syringe pump myself?
- Yes in theory but really we take no responsibility for integrating into the software, control or performance.
- The Nanosight pump is specially configured, its not standard.
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What is a good sample focus?
- Ideally you need to see circles of light, not refraction circles or blurred hazy dots.
- You also need to see the smallest particles