AIS launches spectral imaging platform ScanView

AIS announces launch of a new spectral imaging platform ScanView, designed and manufactured by Applied Spectral Imaging (ASI), Israel.

The ScanView system is intended for in-vitro diagnostic use as an adjunctive automated enumeration tool to assist the cytogenetics and pathologist to detect amplifications of the HER-2/neu gene in human breast cancer specimens.

A new application for the ScanView System will assist caregivers in the analysis of the FISH signals in tissue specimens of breast cancer patients. This test is an important factor in the evaluation and selection of certain breast cancer patients for Genentech's Herceptin (Trastuzumab) therapy.

The ScanView system has previously received FDA clearance as an aiding tool in counting and classifying fluorescent signals in interphase nuclei with the Vysis CEP XY Probes.

In addition, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently approved ScanView Scanning Platform for Detection and Quantifying HER-2/neu gene via Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) in interphase nuclei from formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded human breast cancer tissue specimens, probed by the Vysis PathVysion™ Her-2 DNA Probe Kit.

Spectral karyotyping with AIS

AIS introduces Spectral karyotyping (SKY®) equipment, designed and manufactured by ASI, a leading developer of comprehensive solutions for pathology and cytogenetics. Spectral karyotyping (SKY®) is ASI’s novel addition to the cytogenetic tool kit. It is based on a unique electro-optical hardware that enables measuring the spectral image of a metaphase, previously stained, such that each chromosome class has a different color (created typically from different combinations of 5 or more basic dyes). While the staining scheme of mFISH is identical, HiSKY's measurement scheme is very different than the one used in mFISH, which is basically standard FISH acquisition done using multiple microscope filters.

This lets cytogeneticists intuitively find chromosomal abnormalities they might not have discovered otherwise. HiSKY is the cytogenetics workstation based on the SKY technique. The fact that HiSKY measures the entire spectrum at each point enables to completely extract the exact emission of each dye. No errors due to cross talk, high background or wrong contrast of specific layers. Here the power of HiSKY is seen in its full glory. The outcome is a robust classification, which is the reason why consistently HiSKY is the choice even for the routine clinical lab.

The level of automation of a system also influences the accuracy, repeatability and mainly the throughput. HISKY is fully automatic, from the acquisition stage right through to the analysis and verification.

Hundreds of scientific publications (over 700) have been written by SKY users revealing new information clarifying and correcting the prognosis and treatment for people all over the world. 

AIS is an exclusive distributor of ASI in Australia and New Zealand.

AIS introduces new concept in measurement — NEC’s data loggers

Our range of data loggers, designed and manufactured by NEC-Avio (Japan), could improve your measuring applications at production lines, quality inspection and Research. NEC’s data acquisition loggers have some special characteristics which put them at a high level and demanding measurement applications.

In addition to standard data loggers’ capabilities to measure and record various monitored environmental conditions, such as air temperature and humidity, automatically collect data on a 24-basis, providing multi-channel measurements, files control, time setting and emailing, NEC’s data acquisition systems feature simultaneous measurement and recording of a non-contact infrared temperature data with analogue phenomena including stress, strain and vibration. The system is accompanied by an infrared thermal imaging camera like NEC TS9100 which supplies images via Ethernet connection. A brilliant LSD colour monitor on the data logger displays trend of max/min and average temperature. Various alarms can be set up. The system provides multi-channel measurement: up to 16 isolated, independent data channels simultaneously display connected sensor data.

NEC’s data logger remote scanners were specifically designed to meet needs of field researchers. They have various configurations with multiple channels and fast recording (max 10ms sampling when using 30 channels in Lab measurements and 100ms sampling when using 1200 channels in large-scale measurement at plants) and use various measurement methods which are especially effective for repetitive tests: selectable from Constant Interval, Variable Interval and Step-Trigger measurement methods.

NEC’s data acquisition systems are a cost effective solution for R&D, which are simple in operation and efficient in the fields. AIS is an exclusive distributor of NEC-Avio in Australia and New Zealand.

Infrared Windows for Switchboard Inspections from AIS

To complement the range of thermal imaging equipment AIS introduces its innovative solution for switchboard inspections. Infrared Windows are widely used for thermal imaging inspections of switchboards and other industrial equipment without opening the covers.

An infrared window assembly (composed of optics, O-ring, metal holder, and protecting cover) is installed as the viewport window for thermal imaging cameras.

The critical part of the assembly, optics, is made of CaF2, which allows thermal imaging cameras to operate through it at different wavelength ranges. Our infrared windows are suitable for 3 wavelength ranges: 0.2-7um, 0.2-14um, and 3-16um. This window is also transparent for human eye for conducting visual inspections.

An O-ring used in windows design meets the requirements of the dust protection standard IP67.

How to calibrate thermal camera

We are often asked about ways to calibrate thermal imaging cameras in Australia.

Well, there are two ways. One is to get a blackbody source and do calibration checks as often as needed in your own offices.

Another is more common — asking an external organisation to do that using their blackbody source. Now, this is logical and convenient but how do you find a good, reliable organisation with perfectly calibrated NATA certified blackbody source?

It is simple, ask National Measurement Institute, Bradfield Rd, West Lindfield NSW 2070, Australia.

Contact Dr Ferdouse Jahan on (02) 8467 3570 for details or read more about it here: link.

AIS launches Infrared Thermal Imager InfReC R300 — Research and Development, Maintenance, Energy, Medical and Vet

New infrared thermal imager InfRec R300, designed by NEC Avio, is a brand-new, multipurpose, high-definition & high-performance model of the “InfReC” family, for R&D, predictive & preventive maintenance, quality control, and other applications.

The InfRec R300 is incorporated with Japan-made detector with the latest technology and delivers a top level performance in its class, such as temperature resolution of 0.05°C (at 30°C), accuracy within ±1°C and spatial resolution of 1.2mrad. Those performances are also complemented by optional high temperature range and various optional lenses (2x telephoto, 0.5x wide-angle, close-up, etc.) to meet different requirements for tests and measurements.

Furthermore, R300 comes with “InfRec Analyzer NS9500PRO for R300”, PC software with comprehensive capability needed for real-time recording, detailed data analysis and report creation functions. Simple operations enable users to make simultaneous video capturing of thermal/visible images and transfer them to PC via USB as well as composite image display on a real-time basis. R300 employs ergonomic case design for easy and flexible handling and operations in the field. This thermal imager features 2 independent REC/FRZ keys (most frequently used and important buttons) on top and rear panels, which help users to hold the camera and capture images in a comfortable position from any angle. R300 also boasts its viewfinder incorporated together with luminous and tilting LCD monitor. Yet, thermal imaging camera R300 is lighter by 35% in comparison with NEC Avio’s predecessor models to support easier handling for longer operation.

AIS launches the smallest and the most rugged 1MP ultra-sensitive EMCCD camera in the world

AIS (Applied Infrared Sensing) announces the release of the FALCON EMCCD camera for high speed, high resolution (1004×1002) and low light imaging. The camera is designed and manufactured by Raptor Photonics, world leader in rugged high performance cameras.

The new camera provides a 16 bit cameralink output, 1 MegaPixel resolution, 65% QE, ultra low light sensitivity and sophisticated camera controls. It is the smallest and the most rugged digital colour EMCCD camera. Easy to integrate, the camera is aimed primarily at extreme low light imaging applications, such as hyperspectral, X-ray imaging or Astronomy, and high-end night surveillance and homeland security. Moreover, it is the ideal camera to integrate within airborne or ground based Electro-Optics systems. It is small, lightweight, low power and is therefore the ideal camera for OEM and integrators.

Process monitoring with NEC SS320 Thermal Imaging System

Australian industries require constant monitoring of production lines and assets as well as ensuring all facilities meet high safety requirements. Presenting new products from NEC Avio (Japan) and Raptor Photonics (Ireland) AIS (Applied Infrared Sensing) now offers cost effective process control systems either based on infrared camera (based on reflectivity of product in infrared spectrum) or thermal imaging camera (for temperature control).

Temperature monitoring is essential component of any process control system for monitoring of potential fire in refuse or coal pile, at petrochemical plants or any manufacturing companies producing plastic injection moulded products. Thermal Imaging Cameras NEC SS320 acquire thermal images in real time and processes accompanying data for detection of unusual heat on production equipment, quality control of products and monitoring ambient temperatures. In addition, product can be monitored during belt conveyor transportation. Any increase over preset temperature threshold in real time triggers an alarm.

The system is comprised of the infrared imaging camera with protective housing, control unit and control/measurement software for easy setup. The control unit is wall-hanging type for easy mounting. It can work effectively even on a desk. The control unit can be connected with up to 4 cameras. The thermal imaging monitoring camera has a wide field of view: standard 30° (horizontal) and optional 60° and 78° (horizontal).

Thermal imaging monitoring system NEC SS320 is a very cost effective solution for automatic heat check of manufacturing facilities and environmental monitoring.

Substance Identification with Revolutionary Handheld Raman Analyzer

AIS (Applied Infrared Sensing) is launching the latest and revolutionary Handheld Raman Analyzer 1stGuard^TM from BaySpec (USA), specifically targeted for identification of hazardous materials, unknown substances and industrial grade materials. 1stGuard^TM

Based on Raman spectroscopy technology 1stGuard^TM is ideal for identification and use with:

• Narcotics & illicit street drugs;
• Explosives & chemical warfare agents;
• Hazardous materials & chemical spills;
• Pharmaceutical IQ/OQ/PQ quality;
• Gemstone authentification, etc.

Unlike other lab-based analytical techniques, there is no sample preparation needed for 1stGuard^TM. It can penetrate plastic bags or clear and even ambercolored glass bottles while not altering or destroying the sample, thus maintaining its integrity.

The 1stGuard^TM is designed from the ground up for field use, with an active trigger built into an easy to grip handle. Extended battery life (>4 hours) allows continuous, uninterrupted work in the field (perfect for police and other institutions).

Operated very much like a point-and-shoot camera, the 1stGuard^TM delivers accurate identification results in a matter of seconds. Since the identification is based on the chemical fingerprint on the molecular level, there is no chance for mix-up or human error.

The 1stGuard^TM is run by a full-featured Windows-based ultra-compact computer, thus it is easy to download data or communicate with centralized facilities by WiFi or Bluetooth.