Engineered for modern labs, the OPTURA® PALM® is a compact, contactless biomass sensor delivering fast, contamination-free total biomass measurements in just seconds. With a simple press against shake flasks or vessels, this handheld device provides precise readings—no sampling, no interruptions. Designed for bioprocess professionals working with microbial or mammalian cultures, the PALM® enhances workflow efficiency and traceability. Compatible with various vessel types and materials, it pairs seamlessly with PALM Connect software for custom calibrations and data management.
OPTURA® PALM® – Portable, Contactless Biomass Monitoring for Modern Labs
The OPTURA® PALM® is a compact, handheld biomass sensor designed to deliver rapid, accurate, and contamination-free total biomass readings directly from shake flasks, Falcon tubes, and other vessels - all without opening or sampling. Built for ease of use and laboratory efficiency, it enables scientists and bioprocess engineers to make informed decisions quickly while maintaining sterile conditions.
Key Benefits
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Contactless Measurement: No need to open flasks or handle cultures—simply press the sensor against the vessel surface.
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Rapid Results: Achieve accurate biomass readings in as little as 5 seconds.
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Enhanced Sterility: Reduces contamination risk by eliminating invasive sampling.
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Custom Calibration: Upload up to 16 biomass calibration curves for tailored, unit-specific readouts (e.g., OD600, g/L, CPM).
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Versatile Compatibility: Works with a wide range of vessel types and materials including glass and PETG, from Erlenmeyer flasks to Falcon tubes.
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Compact and Portable: Fits easily in the palm of your hand - ideal for flexible lab use.
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USB Connectivity: Seamless integration with PALM Connect software for calibration management, data storage, and export.
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Linear Reflectance Response: High correlation across diverse cell types and concentrations using NIR bio-reflectance technology.
Innovative Technology Behind OPTURA®
The OPTURA® PALM® uses a fixed near-infrared (NIR) wavelength of 1310 - 1330 nm, optimized for biomass sensitivity from seeding to harvest. This eliminates the need for wavelength adjustment and enhances performance in colored media.
Reflectance-based readings are generated by directing an NIR laser into the media; light reflected by cells is measured to determine total biomass. With a 2.5 cm penetration depth, the device is well-suited to restricted environments and thick-walled vessels.
Compatible Cell Types
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Mammalian cells (e.g., CHO)
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Microbial cultures (e.g., E. coli, Pichia pastoris)
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Yeast and other cell types used in bio-production and R&D
Typical Applications
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Biotech and pharmaceutical labs
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Research institutions
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Process development labs
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Academic laboratories
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Pilot-scale monitoring
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On-the-spot biomass verification
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Wavelength | 1310–1330 nm (NIR) |
| Measurement Time | Max 7 seconds |
| Cell Concentration Range | E. coli: 0.5 – 15.5 OD600CHO: 3 × 10⁶ – 1.9 × 10⁸ cells/mlS. cerevisiae: 3.5 × 10⁶ – 8 × 10⁷ cells/ml |
| Custom Calibration Units | OD600, g/L, CPM |
| Accuracy | ±0.2 nW or ±15% system accuracy |
| Vessel Wall Thickness | Full range up to 4 mm (reduced range up to 12 mm) |
| Memory | Stores up to 1,000 readings |
| Power Supply | Rechargeable NiMH battery (low self-discharge) |
| Charging Method | USB (PC/laptop or wall adapter) |
| Operating Temperature | 5°C to 35°C (41°F to 95°F) |
| Connectivity | USB for data transfer and software sync |
| Laser Classification | Class 1M |
| Verification | Solid verification standard available |
Dimensions
| Model | W × Y × Z (mm) |
|---|---|
| OPTURA PALM (8530-00) | 19 × 74 × 22 |
| Verification Standard (8530-50) | 34 × 26.75 × 22.3 |
Seamless Integration with PALM Connect Software
OPTURA PALM pairs with PALM Connect, a dedicated desktop software for:
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Uploading and managing calibrations
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Saving and exporting readings
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Converting raw reflectance data into familiar units
| Brand | Aber |
