*Welcome to the Instrumentation Site

  -The use of instrumentation in life and science has changed dramatically over the years. For example, a system of weighing dates back to some of the first settled communities that practiced the barter system (Turner, 1998). Today, scientists use digital analytical balances capable of weighing down to 0.00001g.

  -At the University of Northern Colorado, there exists a wide variety of instruments used for both qualitative and quantitative measurement. These instruments include an atomic absorption (AA) device, a fluorescence spectrometer, gas chromatographs (GC), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), infrared (IR) spectroscopy, a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) device, pH meters, a polarograph, UV-Vis devices, and more.

  -During chemistry courses, students will have the opportunity to gain familiarity with some of these instruments. Classes such as Instrumental Analysis and Experimental Biochemistry will use more of the instruments. With the use of this web site, it is envisioned that scheduling of individual people and groups with these instruments will be a reasonable and well-organized matter.

  -Feel free to explore this site and learn more about the featured instruments. Over the 2002 - 2003 school year, there will be additions to each area, including instructions for individual instruments and adjustments to the monthly instrumentation calendars.

 -Before using any instruments, make sure the lab instructor (TA or professor) has instructed you on its use. DO NOT use the instrument unless supervised by a lab instructor, a graduate instrument assistant, or a professor. These instruments are very expensive, and printing out and reading the directions alone is not enough information to properly use an instrument.

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