Microtops II

MICROTOPS II is a 5 channel hand-held ozonometer for measuring total ozone column easily, accurately and dependably. Direct solar ultraviolet radiation at 3 discrete wavelengths within the UV-B range is measured and stored. Optionally, the MICROTOPS II can measure total water vapor (936 nm) and aerosol optical depth (AOT) at 1020 nanometers. MICROTOPS II features an accuracy comparable to much larger and more expensive instruments. Optional GPS receiver automates field operation. This instrument is also available in standard WMO or custom configuration for sunphotometry (5 channels - see Ordering).

Features

High accuracy. Highest grade filters are embedded into a solid cast aluminum housing which assures accurate, stable optical alignment. Low noise electronics and a 20 bit A/D converter allow high linearity, resolution and dynamic range.
Ease of use. No computer knowledge is necessary to make measurements. Just aim the meter at the sun, align the image of the sun with the cross-hairs and push the button. In few seconds the measurement will be completed and the result stored in memory.
Portability. A small hand-held device is all you need to perform measurements. No additional computer is necessary.
Instantaneous results. The ozone and total water vapor calculation algorithms are programmed in the MICROTOPS II and the final results of all stored scans can be conveniently viewed on the LCD. The raw data is also stored to allow retrospective adjustments of algorithms.
Non-volatile memory. The raw data collected by the MICROTOPS II, as well as calculated results are stored in non-volatile memory. Each data point is annotated with date, time, site coordinates, solar angle, altitude, pressure and temperature.
Low cost. By implementing the latest technology, instrument cost has been brought well below that of comparable ozonometers, without sacrificing accuracy or features.
Computer interface. Connection to a PC through a serial interface (RS232) enables transfer of collected data. MICROTOPS Organizer, a Windows-based software automates data retrieval and archiving.

Specifications

Optical channels
(std. configuration) 305.5 ±0.3 nm, 2.4 nm FWHM
312.5 ±0.3 nm, 2.4 nm FWHM
320.0 ±0.3 nm, 2.4 nm FWHM
936 ±1.5 nm, 10 nm FWHM (optional)
1020 ±1.5 nm, 10 nm FWHM (optional)
Stray light
1E-6 for 305.5 nm filter
1E-5 for 312.5 nm filter
1E-5 for 320.0 nm filter
Resolution 0.0001uW/cm² on 300nm channel
Dynamic range >300,000
Angle of view 2.5°
Precision 1-2%
Nonlinearity max 0.002% FS
Operating Environment 0 to 50°C, no precipitation
Computer interface RS-232C
Power source 4xAA Alkaline batteries
Weight 21 oz (600 grams)
Size 4"W x 8"H x 1.7"D (10x20x4.3 cm)

Applications

Weather stations
Scientific and educational institutions
Pollution monitoring agencies
Health care organizations
Material testing laboratories
Photobiologists
Environmental monitoring

Ordering

Standard

Microtops II with 305, 312, and 320 nm channels
Barometric pressure sensor
Carrying case
Serial port cable
Instruction manual

Optional

936 and 1020 nm channels for water vapor measurements
GPS receiver for automatic location setup
Tripod adapter
Custom filter configuration for sunphotometry. Typical wavelengths include: 340, 380, 440, 500, 675, 870, 936 and 1020 nm

Solar Light Company, 721 Oak Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19126. Tel: 215-927-4206; Fax: 215-927-6347.