14. Do I need a Microfocus Beam Condenser for the DC-2 Diamond Compression Cell?

The Microfocus Beam Condenser is a high performance 4x beam condenser specially designed for use with the DC-2 Diamond Compression Cell (P/N 2550). The simple two lens linear optical system ensures easy alignment and high throughput over a wide working wavelength range. The Microfocus beam condenser can be supplied with either ZnSe lenses (P/N 2560) or with KRS-5 lenses (P/N 2561). (KRS-5 allows an extended range in the mid-infrared to 250 cm-1). Lens upgrade kits (P/N 2570 KRS-5 lens kit, P/N 2571 ZnSe lens kit) are available should you wish to change from one version to the other.

The Microfocus Beam Condenser is optically matched for the DC-2 Diamond Compression Cell (P/N 2550), which locates accurately and reproducibly in the beam condenser using spring ball catches. The whole accessory combination (DC-2 in the Microfocus beam condenser) is mounted into a spectrometer sample compartment via a standard Specac Benchmark™ baseplate. This allows for optimum stability in all FTIR spectrometers.

A DTGS detector is sufficiently sensitive for measurement of the signal through the 1.5mm diameter aperture of the DC-2, because of the 4x beam condensing effect offered by the Microfocus Beam condenser with this system. However, if a more sensitive liquid nitrogen cooled MCT detector is available, then the signal detection and spectral results will be enhanced by use of the Microfocus Beam condenser with the DC-2 diamond compression cell, rather than using the DC-2 alone.