Varian Cary 5E UV-Vis-NIR Spectrophotometer (Refurbished)

Overview

The Varian Cary 5E UV-Vis-NIR Spectrophotometer is a high-performance, double-beam scanning spectrophotometer engineered for precision quantitative and qualitative analysis across the ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared spectral regions (175–3300 nm). Based on a Czerny-Turner monochromator architecture with holographic gratings and thermally stabilized optics, the Cary 5E delivers exceptional photometric accuracy, long-term baseline stability, and high wavelength reproducibility. Its dual-detector design—combining a low-noise photomultiplier tube (PMT) for UV-Vis and a thermoelectrically cooled InGaAs or PbS detector for NIR—ensures seamless spectral continuity without manual detector switching. This refurbished unit has undergone full functional validation at SpectraLab Scientific’s ISO/IEC 17025-accredited calibration facility, including wavelength accuracy verification (±0.08 nm), photometric linearity assessment (0–3.5 A), and stray light evaluation (<0.0001% at 220 nm). It is intended for laboratories requiring trace-level absorbance measurement, thin-film characterization, semiconductor material analysis, and regulatory-compliant method development.

Key Features

• Extended spectral coverage from deep UV (175 nm) to extended NIR (3300 nm) in a single instrument platform
• Double-beam optical design with real-time reference compensation for enhanced drift resistance and measurement robustness
• High-resolution scanning capability (0.01 nm minimum bandwidth) with programmable scan speed (up to 24,000 nm/min)
• Thermally stabilized monochromator housing and precision-ground optical components for repeatable inter-day performance
• Integrated sample compartment accommodating standard 10-mm cuvettes, integrating spheres (e.g., Labsphere RSA-PE), fiber-optic probes, and solid-sample holders
• Refurbishment includes full mechanical inspection, lamp replacement (deuterium and tungsten-halogen), alignment verification, and firmware update to latest stable release (v6.3.x)

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Cary 5E supports liquid, solid, and thin-film samples via interchangeable accessories—including variable-pathlength cells, temperature-controlled Peltier holders (−10 °C to 110 °C), and specular reflectance attachments. Its optical performance adheres to internationally recognized standards: wavelength accuracy and repeatability conform to ASTM E275 and ISO 6298; photometric linearity and noise specifications meet USP requirements for pharmaceutical assay validation. The system is fully compatible with GLP/GMP environments when operated with audit-trail-enabled software configurations and documented instrument qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ) packages—available upon request. All refurbished units are supplied with a Certificate of Performance Verification, detailing measured parameters against factory specifications.

Software & Data Management

Operated via Cary WinUV v6.3 software (Windows 10/11 compatible), the system provides comprehensive data acquisition, processing, and reporting tools. Features include multi-component spectral deconvolution, kinetic time-course modeling, derivative spectroscopy, and customizable report templates compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements (when deployed with validated user access controls and electronic signature modules). Raw data is stored in vendor-neutral .csv and .jdx formats; spectral libraries (e.g., NIST, SDBS) can be imported for automated peak identification. Software licensing is perpetual and transferable; optional remote diagnostics and software update support are available under annual maintenance agreements.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical quality control: Active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) assay, excipient compatibility studies, dissolution profile analysis
• Materials science: Bandgap determination of semiconductors, optical density of anti-reflective coatings, refractive index modeling of polymers
• Environmental testing: Quantification of nitrate, phosphate, and heavy metal complexes in aqueous matrices per EPA Method 365.3 and ISO 15681-1
• Nanotechnology: Size estimation of gold and silver nanoparticles via surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak analysis
• Academic research: Teaching spectroscopic principles, enzyme kinetics (NADH/NADPH monitoring), and ligand-binding stoichiometry studies

FAQ

Is this unit covered by original Varian service contracts?

No—Varian was acquired by Agilent Technologies in 2010, and official support for Cary 5E ended in 2018. However, SpectraLab Scientific provides technical support, spare parts sourcing, and on-site service through its global network of certified field engineers.

What documentation accompanies the instrument?

Each unit ships with a Certificate of Performance Verification, refurbished hardware log, updated user manual (PDF), and WinUV software installation media with license key.

Can the Cary 5E be integrated into LIMS or ELN systems?

Yes—via ASCII-based instrument command protocol (ICP) and optional OLE/COM drivers, enabling bidirectional data exchange with major LIMS platforms including LabVantage, Thermo Fisher SampleManager, and IDBS E-WorkBook.

Are accessories included in the base configuration?

The standard configuration includes a 6-position autosampler, quartz cuvette holder, and dual-lamp assembly. Integrating spheres, fiber-optic probes, and temperature controllers are available as optional add-ons.

How is “refurbished” defined for this instrument?

Refurbishment comprises full optical recalibration, mechanical refurbishment of moving parts (grating drive, shutter mechanism), electrical safety testing, firmware update, and 72-hour burn-in validation under load conditions.