The OPTURA SPY by ABER Instruments delivers real-time, contactless biomass measurements through vessel walls — with no need for ports or invasive probes. Using advanced NIR bio-reflectance technology, it provides accurate, high-resolution data across a wide biomass range, from seeding to harvest. Compact, easy to integrate, and equipped with a patented bubble filter, OPTURA SPY ensures reliable readings even in challenging bioprocess environments. Ideal for labs, bioreactors, and single-use systems, it brings efficiency, flexibility, and precision to modern biomass monitoring.
OPTURA SPY – Next-Generation Bio-Reflectance Sensor for Real-Time, Non-Invasive Biomass Monitoring
Revolutionizing Bioprocess Monitoring with Optical Precision
In the fast-evolving world of biopharmaceuticals, cell culture optimization, and industrial fermentation,real-time, reliable biomass data is critical for maximizing yields, ensuring process consistency, and accelerating time-to-market. The OPTURA SPY from ABER Instruments represents a quantum leap in optical sensing technology, delivering instantaneous, contamination-free cell density measurements without the need for manual sampling or disruptive offline assays.
Built upon patented bio-reflectance technology, the OPTURA SPY harnesses near-infrared (NIR) light at 1330 nm to provide unparalleled sensitivity across the entire bioprocess lifecycle—from low-density seed cultures to high-cell-density harvests. Unlike traditional optical probes that suffer from bubble interference or require frequent recalibration, the OPTURA SPY integrates an advanced bubble-filtering algorithm, ensuring unmatched accuracy even in highly aerated or sparged bioreactors.
Why OPTURA SPY is the Ultimate Choice for Bioprocess Professionals
1. Real-Time Insights, Zero Sampling – Accelerate Process Development
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Eliminate time-consuming offline cell counting (viability assays, hemocytometers, or OD600 measurements).
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Continuous live data enables immediate feed strategy adjustments, reducing batch failures.
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No sample withdrawal means lower contamination risk and maximized product yield.
2. Unrivaled Accuracy with ABER’s Patented Bubble Filter
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Traditional optical sensors misinterpret bubbles as biomass, leading to flawed data.
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OPTURA SPY’s smart signal processing dynamically filters out bubble noise, delivering true cell density readings even in high-gas-flow perfusion systems.
3. One Sensor, Full Bioprocess Coverage – From Lab to GMP
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Wide dynamic range (>4 orders of magnitude) means no sensor swaps between seed train and production.
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Versatile mounting—attach to glass bio1reactors, single-use bags (up to 4.3 mm thickness), tubing, or downstream flow paths.
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GMP-ready for seamless scale-up from R&D to commercial manufacturing.
4. Plug-and-Play Simplicity for Effortless Integration
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Non-contact design—simply adhere the SPY adapter to any transparent surface.
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Pre-calibrated for common cell lines (e.g., S. cerevisiae, CHO, E. coli), minimizing setup time.
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Compatible with ABER’s AMBR® systems, benchtop reactors, and custom OEM integrations.
Applications – From Upstream to Downstream
Research & Process Development
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High-throughput screening (AMBR® 15/250 mL systems)
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Clone selection—track growth kinetics without disturbing cultures.
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Media optimization—correlate nutrient feeds with live biomass trends.
cGMP Manufacturing & Scale-Up
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Perfusion bioreactors—monitor cell retention devices in real time.
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Single-use bioreactors—eliminate probe fouling risks in disposable systems.
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Harvest control—precisely time harvests based on viable cell density (VCD).
Downstream & Continuous Processing
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Cell clarification monitoring—detect cell bleed in centrifuges or TFF systems.
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Recirculation loops—mount on tubing for real-time perfusion feedback.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number (Part No.) | 8500-06 (Type A), 8500-07 (Type B), 8500-08 (Type C), 8500-09 (Type D), 8500-29 (TF for Thermo SUB) |
| Wavelength | 1330 nm (NIR) |
| Cell Concentration Range | Min: 0.01 g/l DCW (Type A/B), 0.05 g/l DCW (Type C/D) Max: >175 g/l DCW (all types) |
| Resolution | Best case: 8.45×10⁻¹⁰ % reflectivity |
| Stability | 0.24% @ 100 g/l yeast solution (35 min test) |
| Measurement Volume | 200 µl |
| Vessel Wall Thickness | 0.2–4.3 mm (depending on model) |
| Operating Temperature | 5–70°C (40–160°F) |
| Ambient Conditions | 15–45°C (59–113°F) |
| Power Supply | 24 V DC |
| Cable Length | 2 m |
| Laser Classification | Class 1M |
| Averaging Time Window | 30 sec – 8 min (trimmed mean) |
| Brand | Aber |
