Computerized automation of optical systems of the analytical ultracentrifuge

Abstract

Data obtained from experiments by use of an ultracentrifuge, are either given in the form of photos of the refractive index curve, or as registrations of the absorption-profiles, occurring within the cell, which are registered by differential records. Until now only sophisticated and time-consuming data analyses have been applied to measurements of diffusion and sedimentation coefficients by use of photos and records. For improving data handling the optical systems of the ultracentrifuge were computerized by using modern electric equipment. Schlieren photos are handled with a digitizer, scanner registrations by an AD-converter combined with a PC. Various programs are shown for further data acquisition. The specific software and the significant improvements resulting from this procedure, are discussed in the determination of diffusion coefficients.