The Lambda VF-1 and VF-5 filter changers offer a simple system for users to select from a large range of wavelengths either through computer interfaces or using keypad control. Recently, the control software used in these devices has been extended to incorporate two new modes, which enable selection of novel wavelengths without the need to adjust the existing programming.
Triggered Mode for Ultra-Fast Wavelength Selection
The Lambda VF-1 and VF-5 are customized models of the Lambda 10-B. The 10-B has a TTL level input and output that maintain the shutter when the controller is used in typical filter-wheel systems. However, the VF-5 and VF-1 models do not contain a shutter.
Instead, the TTL input is utilized as a trigger signal to enable wavelength selection. This is achieved using keypad options, which are linked to the TTL input, to transmit the selected wavelength sequence through.
Due to its ultra-fast speed of wavelength selection, the Triggered mode is currently only available in the Lambda VF-1. Users can choose whether the sequence of wavelengths comprises as 100 specified wavelengths in a random order, or whether the sequence increases or decreases in defined steps, beginning and ending with two specified wavelengths.
Using Filter Selection Commands to Get Desired Wavelengths
The well-received Lambda 10 series of position filter wheels offered by Sutter is compatible with almost all microscope imaging instruments. These same filter selection commands are used in the new Lambda VF-5 to choose the filter that is situated in the optical port. However, the favored approach is for the users to select their chosen wavelength meanwhile the controller places the appropriate filter and tilt angle.
One newly implemented mode enables users to redefine the 10 filter position commands so that a wavelength only offered in the VF-5 can be chosen. In this mode, which can be activated via the keypad menu, the filter command triggers the controller to select the appropriate choice of filter position and tilt, which results in the wavelength desired by the user.
This means that any existing software that is compatible with Sutter’s filter-wheel systems can be used to choose from 10 specific wavelengths in the VF-5 range. Overall, the Lambda devices are ideal for any application because they can account for the ever-changing needs and desires of users.
Support for the VF-1 and VF-5 With the Lambda 10-3 Controller
In addition to the Lambda 10-B controller, the Lambda 10-3 is also able to support the VF-1 and VF-5 filter systems. As this device offers 5 motor drivers in comparison to the 2 offered by the Lambda 10-B, it enables the ability to support devices like the VF-1 or VF-5 whilst allowing extra channels for filter wheels or the SmartShutter™ at the same time.
Recently, the Lambda 10-3 has been re-designed with the same innovative control features of the Versachrome® products described previously. This Lambda 10-3 version now offers 3 TTL level inputs for rapid changes of triggered wavelength. Also, the new 10-3 also utilizes a window that can compensate for any change in the optical axis caused by the tilt of the Versachrome filters.
Sutter Instrument
For over 45 years, Sutter Instrument has been a recognized global leader in the design, and manufacture of specialized biomedical research instrumentation essential to biomedical research and emerging analytical techniques that utilize sub-micron probes and pipettes.
With distributors in over 38 nations outside the United States, our strong customer orientation, technical expertise and commitment to quality, has helped us develop an exceptionally loyal customer base that offer insights to advancing technologies and exhibit significant repeat purchasing patterns.
The unique synergy between our product groups (microprobe fabrication, micromanipulation, imaging, and micromanipulation) affords the company an ideal position for expansion and growth, especially in the high-growth fields of neuroscience, high-speed imaging, genomics, optogenetics, drug discovery and stem-cell research.
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