Foldable Mini-Spectrometer

You'll need a DVD-R, piece of paper, scissors, tape, a smartphone and the free web software. Then, follow Public Lab's Directions: https://publiclab.org/sites/default/files/8.5x11mini-spec3.8.pdf

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Instructions for building this tool at . The anticipated cost of materials to build this tool is No cost. It may take A few hours.

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About this tool
Description

Public Lab's Foldable Mini-Spectrometer is used with a smart phone to allow the user to scan liquids, gasses or light sources to observe visible/near-infrared spectra. The data can be recorded and analyzed using free software, Spectral Workbench.


The Foldable Mini-Spectrometer can be used with a smart phone to observe visible/near infrared spectra. The design focuses on ease of use rather than precision. It is intended as an introductory device. The range of the device depends on your smartphones camera focus and resolution, but the Foldable Mini-Spectrometer should offer measurements better than 3 nanometers per pixel.
Ideal Age Group Elementary school (6 - 10 years), Middle school (11 - 13 years), High school (14 - 17 years), College, Graduate students, Adults, Families, Seniors
(The Foldable Mini-Spectrometer is designed as an introductory device, but some knowledge of spectrometry is required to understand the data.)
Training Learning materials are available online.
Use considerations Assembly is required. Callibration is required. This tool relies on lab processing. This tool require consumable materials (e.g. batteries, light bulbs, etc.).
Size & weight Flat: This tool would fit in an envelope.
Less than 13oz (a full soda can weighs a little less than 13oz)
Expected lifetime Should last a few weeks
Topics Chemistry
Activities In oceans, streams, rivers, lakes, On a hike, At home, On a walk, run, At school, At a science center, zoo or aquarium
Tool updated Jan. 24, 2017, 7:58 p.m.