Collection: UV-Vis Spectrophotometers
UV-Vis Spectrophotometers for Sale
Buy used, refurbished, and surplus UV-Vis spectrophotometers from mLab Supply for nucleic acid quantification, protein quantification, absorbance spectroscopy, kinetics, and general analytical laboratory workflows. We source benchtop and microvolume UV-visible spectrophotometers from Thermo Scientific, Agilent Technologies, Shimadzu, DeNovix, and Implen for academic research, biotech, pharmaceutical, and industrial laboratory environments. Pricing and availability vary by instrument configuration — submit a quote request and we will confirm current sourcing options, configuration details, and lead time.
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Shimadzu UV-2600i UV-Vis Spectrophotometer — Request a Quote
Prix habituel $0.00 USDPrix habituel -
Agilent Cary 3500 UV-Vis Spectrophotometer — Request a Quote
Prix habituel $0.00 USDPrix habituel -
Thermo Scientific Evolution 220 UV-Vis Spectrophotometer — Request a Quote
Prix habituel $0.00 USDPrix habituel
<section class="mlab-collection-buying-guide">
<h2>How to Choose a UV-Vis Spectrophotometer</h2>
<p>Selecting a UV-Vis spectrophotometer requires matching the instrument's format, wavelength range, and sample-handling capabilities to your specific analytical workflow. Key considerations include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Benchtop vs microvolume format:</strong> Benchtop instruments use cuvettes and support a wide range of accessories and applications. Microvolume instruments use a pedestal or capillary system for small-volume measurements, commonly used for nucleic acid and protein quantification.</li>
<li><strong>Wavelength range and bandwidth:</strong> Confirm the instrument covers the wavelengths required for your assay. Spectral bandwidth affects resolution for scanning applications.</li>
<li><strong>Sample volume:</strong> Microvolume platforms require as little as 1–2 µL per measurement. Cuvette-based systems require larger volumes but offer greater flexibility for accessories and temperature control.</li>
<li><strong>Scanning vs fixed-wavelength:</strong> Scanning instruments acquire full spectra; fixed-wavelength instruments measure at discrete wavelengths. Confirm which mode your workflow requires.</li>
<li><strong>Kinetics:</strong> If time-course absorbance measurements are required, confirm the instrument supports kinetics mode.</li>
<li><strong>Temperature control:</strong> Some applications require temperature-controlled cuvette holders. Confirm accessory availability for the specific platform.</li>
<li><strong>Software and data export:</strong> Confirm software compatibility with your data management workflow and operating system.</li>
<li><strong>Serviceability:</strong> Consider lamp replacement requirements, local service availability, and parts availability for the specific platform and vintage.</li>
</ul>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-formats">
<h2>Benchtop vs Microvolume Spectrophotometers</h2>
<h3>Benchtop UV-Vis Spectrophotometers</h3>
<p>Benchtop UV-Vis spectrophotometers use standard cuvettes for sample measurement and support a broad range of accessories including temperature-controlled cuvette holders, sippers, autosamplers, and fiber-optic probes. They are well suited for scanning spectroscopy, kinetics, concentration measurements, and applications requiring accessory flexibility. Benchtop instruments typically require larger sample volumes than microvolume platforms but offer greater versatility for diverse analytical workflows.</p>
<h3>Microvolume Spectrophotometers</h3>
<p>Microvolume spectrophotometers use a pedestal or capillary system to measure very small sample volumes, making them well suited for nucleic acid and protein quantification in molecular biology workflows where sample volume is limited. They are optimized for rapid, routine measurements rather than full spectral scanning or accessory-intensive applications. Pedestal cleanliness and proper sample technique are important for accurate and reproducible results.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-beam">
<h2>Single-Beam vs Double-Beam UV-Vis</h2>
<p>Single-beam UV-Vis spectrophotometers measure the sample and reference sequentially using the same optical path, requiring a separate blank measurement before sample analysis. Double-beam instruments split the light source between a sample and reference beam simultaneously, providing continuous baseline correction and improved stability for scanning and kinetics applications. Double-beam designs are generally preferred for demanding scanning workflows and applications sensitive to lamp drift, while single-beam instruments are common for routine fixed-wavelength measurements. Optical architecture varies by model and should be confirmed for the specific instrument before purchasing.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-model-grid">
<h2>Popular UV-Vis Spectrophotometer Manufacturers and Models</h2>
<p>mLab Supply sources UV-Vis spectrophotometers from leading manufacturers including Thermo Scientific, Agilent Technologies, Shimadzu, DeNovix, and Implen. Common models available to source include:</p>
<dl>
<dt>Thermo Scientific</dt>
<dd>NanoDrop One, Evolution 220</dd>
<dt>Agilent Technologies</dt>
<dd>Cary 60, Cary 3500</dd>
<dt>Shimadzu</dt>
<dd>UV-1900i, UV-2600i</dd>
<dt>DeNovix</dt>
<dd>DS-11 FX+</dd>
<dt>Implen</dt>
<dd>NanoPhotometer N60</dd>
</dl>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-comparison-readers">
<h2>UV-Vis Spectrophotometers vs Microplate Readers</h2>
<p>UV-Vis spectrophotometers and <a href="/collections/microplate-readers">microplate readers</a> are complementary but distinct instruments. UV-Vis spectrophotometers typically measure individual samples in cuvettes or microvolume formats and are used for absorbance spectroscopy, spectral scanning, kinetics, and concentration measurements. Microplate readers measure many wells in parallel and are designed for plate-based assay workflows including ELISA, cell-based assays, and high-throughput screening. They are not interchangeable — the right instrument depends on your sample format and workflow requirements.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-used-refurbished">
<h2>Buying Used and Refurbished UV-Vis Spectrophotometers</h2>
<p>Used and refurbished UV-Vis spectrophotometers can offer significant cost savings compared to new instruments. When evaluating a used system, key inspection points include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Lamp condition:</strong> Lamp age and output affect photometric performance. Request lamp history where available. Lamp replacement status varies by unit.</li>
<li><strong>Detector condition:</strong> Confirm detector functionality and any known issues.</li>
<li><strong>Optics and sample compartment:</strong> Confirm optics are clean and free of damage. Sample compartment condition affects measurement quality.</li>
<li><strong>Cuvette holders:</strong> Confirm cuvette holder type and condition. Temperature-control modules and other accessories vary by unit.</li>
<li><strong>Microvolume pedestal:</strong> For microvolume instruments, confirm pedestal condition and cleanliness.</li>
<li><strong>Software and computer:</strong> Confirm software version, license status, and operating system compatibility. Computer inclusion varies by unit.</li>
<li><strong>Service history:</strong> Request available calibration and QC records where available.</li>
<li><strong>Accessories:</strong> Confirm which accessories are included. Configuration varies by unit.</li>
</ul>
<p>Lamp status, calibration, software licensing, and accessory completeness must be confirmed per unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used or refurbished instrument meets specific regulatory or institutional requirements without independent verification.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-microvolume">
<h2>Microvolume Spectrophotometer Considerations</h2>
<p>Microvolume spectrophotometers measure samples directly on a pedestal or capillary surface using a very small sample volume. Pedestal cleanliness is critical for accurate and reproducible results — contamination or residue from previous samples can affect measurements. Pathlength is typically determined automatically by the instrument based on sample surface tension. Software handles pathlength correction and reports concentration based on user-selected parameters. Data export formats and software compatibility vary by platform. Confirm software version and export capabilities when requesting a quote for a used microvolume instrument.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-applications">
<h2>Applications</h2>
<p>UV-Vis spectrophotometers support a wide range of analytical and research workflows including nucleic acid quantification, protein quantification, concentration measurements, absorbance spectroscopy, kinetics, chemical analysis, pharmaceutical research, biochemical assays, and general analytical laboratory workflows. Suitability for specific regulated applications or institutional quality requirements must be confirmed by the buyer and their compliance team.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-software">
<h2>Software, Accessories, and Workflow Considerations</h2>
<p>UV-Vis spectrophotometers vary in their software architecture — some use onboard touchscreen software, while others connect to a computer-based data acquisition platform. Confirm software version, license status, and operating system compatibility when requesting a quote. Accessories including cuvette holders, temperature-control modules, sippers, autosamplers, and fiber-optic probes vary by platform and are not guaranteed to be included with used instruments. Microvolume accessories and pedestals should be confirmed per unit. Data export formats and integration with laboratory information management systems vary by platform.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-installation">
<h2>Installation and Facility Planning</h2>
<p>UV-Vis spectrophotometers are benchtop instruments with compact footprints. Key installation considerations include available bench space, electrical requirements, environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, vibration), computer or workstation needs, and lamp warm-up requirements for some platforms. Performance verification is recommended after installation and after any relocation. Confirm all site requirements before finalizing a purchase.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-procurement">
<h2>Procurement and Logistics</h2>
<p>mLab Supply supports institutional procurement workflows including formal quotations, purchase orders, and vendor onboarding documentation. We can source specific UV-Vis spectrophotometer models and configurations on request. Freight coordination is available. We also purchase surplus and decommissioned UV-Vis spectrophotometers — contact us via the <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page if you have equipment available.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-related">
<h2>Related Laboratory Equipment</h2>
<p>Laboratories sourcing UV-Vis spectrophotometers often also require <a href="/collections/microplate-readers">microplate readers</a> for plate-based absorbance and fluorescence workflows, and <a href="/collections/cell-counters-and-viability-analyzers">cell counters and viability analyzers</a> for complementary cell quantification workflows. Browse <a href="/collections/thermo-scientific">Thermo Scientific laboratory equipment</a> and <a href="/collections/agilent-technologies">Agilent Technologies laboratory equipment</a> for additional instruments from those manufacturers. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> for current availability and pricing, or visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page if you have surplus spectrophotometers or other lab equipment to sell.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-faq">
<h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
<details><summary>What is a UV-Vis spectrophotometer?</summary><p>A UV-Vis spectrophotometer is an analytical instrument that measures the absorbance or transmittance of a sample across ultraviolet and visible wavelengths. It is used for concentration measurements, spectral analysis, kinetics, and a wide range of quantitative analytical workflows in research and industrial laboratories.</p></details>
<details><summary>What is the difference between UV-Vis and visible-only spectrophotometry?</summary><p>UV-Vis spectrophotometers measure across both ultraviolet (typically ~190–400 nm) and visible (400–800 nm) wavelength ranges. Visible-only spectrophotometers are limited to the visible range and cannot measure UV absorbance. UV-Vis instruments are more versatile and are required for nucleic acid and protein quantification, which rely on UV absorbance at 260 nm and 280 nm respectively.</p></details>
<details><summary>What is the difference between benchtop and microvolume spectrophotometers?</summary><p>Benchtop UV-Vis spectrophotometers use cuvettes and support a broad range of accessories and applications including scanning, kinetics, and temperature control. Microvolume spectrophotometers use a pedestal or capillary system to measure very small sample volumes (typically 1–2 µL), making them well suited for nucleic acid and protein quantification where sample volume is limited.</p></details>
<details><summary>What is the difference between a UV-Vis spectrophotometer and a microplate reader?</summary><p>UV-Vis spectrophotometers measure individual samples in cuvettes or microvolume formats and are used for absorbance spectroscopy, scanning, and concentration measurements. Microplate readers measure many wells in parallel for plate-based assay workflows. They are complementary instruments that serve different purposes and are not interchangeable.</p></details>
<details><summary>What should I inspect before buying a used UV-Vis spectrophotometer?</summary><p>Key inspection points include lamp condition and age, detector functionality, optics and sample compartment condition, cuvette holder type and condition, microvolume pedestal condition where applicable, software version and license status, computer inclusion and compatibility, and available service and calibration history. Accessory completeness varies by unit.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are lamps replaced before sale on used spectrophotometers?</summary><p>Lamp replacement status varies by unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that lamps have been replaced unless explicitly stated for a specific listing. Request lamp history and condition information when inquiring about a specific instrument.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are used UV-Vis spectrophotometers calibrated before sale?</summary><p>Calibration and performance verification status varies by unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used instrument has been calibrated or performance-verified unless explicitly stated for a specific listing. Request available calibration and QC documentation when inquiring about a specific instrument.</p></details>
<details><summary>Is software included with used UV-Vis spectrophotometers?</summary><p>Software inclusion and license status vary by unit. Confirm software version, license transferability, and operating system compatibility when requesting a quote. mLab Supply does not guarantee software license transferability on used instruments.</p></details>
<details><summary>Can mLab Supply source a specific Thermo Scientific, Agilent, Shimadzu, DeNovix, or Implen model?</summary><p>Yes. We source UV-Vis spectrophotometers from Thermo Scientific, Agilent Technologies, Shimadzu, DeNovix, Implen, and other manufacturers on request. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> with your preferred manufacturer, model, and configuration requirements and we will confirm current sourcing options and availability.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are refurbished UV-Vis spectrophotometers suitable for regulated laboratories?</summary><p>Suitability for regulated environments depends on the specific instrument's condition, calibration status, software licensing, and your institution's qualification requirements. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used or refurbished instrument meets specific regulatory or institutional standards without independent verification. Consult your quality and compliance team before purchasing for regulated use.</p></details>
<details><summary>Does mLab Supply coordinate freight and installation for UV-Vis spectrophotometers?</summary><p>Yes. Contact us when requesting a quote to discuss freight and any installation coordination requirements for your specific location.</p></details>
<details><summary>Does mLab Supply purchase surplus UV-Vis spectrophotometers?</summary><p>Yes. We purchase decommissioned and surplus UV-Vis spectrophotometers and other analytical instruments. Visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page to submit details about your equipment.</p></details>
</section>
<h2>How to Choose a UV-Vis Spectrophotometer</h2>
<p>Selecting a UV-Vis spectrophotometer requires matching the instrument's format, wavelength range, and sample-handling capabilities to your specific analytical workflow. Key considerations include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Benchtop vs microvolume format:</strong> Benchtop instruments use cuvettes and support a wide range of accessories and applications. Microvolume instruments use a pedestal or capillary system for small-volume measurements, commonly used for nucleic acid and protein quantification.</li>
<li><strong>Wavelength range and bandwidth:</strong> Confirm the instrument covers the wavelengths required for your assay. Spectral bandwidth affects resolution for scanning applications.</li>
<li><strong>Sample volume:</strong> Microvolume platforms require as little as 1–2 µL per measurement. Cuvette-based systems require larger volumes but offer greater flexibility for accessories and temperature control.</li>
<li><strong>Scanning vs fixed-wavelength:</strong> Scanning instruments acquire full spectra; fixed-wavelength instruments measure at discrete wavelengths. Confirm which mode your workflow requires.</li>
<li><strong>Kinetics:</strong> If time-course absorbance measurements are required, confirm the instrument supports kinetics mode.</li>
<li><strong>Temperature control:</strong> Some applications require temperature-controlled cuvette holders. Confirm accessory availability for the specific platform.</li>
<li><strong>Software and data export:</strong> Confirm software compatibility with your data management workflow and operating system.</li>
<li><strong>Serviceability:</strong> Consider lamp replacement requirements, local service availability, and parts availability for the specific platform and vintage.</li>
</ul>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-formats">
<h2>Benchtop vs Microvolume Spectrophotometers</h2>
<h3>Benchtop UV-Vis Spectrophotometers</h3>
<p>Benchtop UV-Vis spectrophotometers use standard cuvettes for sample measurement and support a broad range of accessories including temperature-controlled cuvette holders, sippers, autosamplers, and fiber-optic probes. They are well suited for scanning spectroscopy, kinetics, concentration measurements, and applications requiring accessory flexibility. Benchtop instruments typically require larger sample volumes than microvolume platforms but offer greater versatility for diverse analytical workflows.</p>
<h3>Microvolume Spectrophotometers</h3>
<p>Microvolume spectrophotometers use a pedestal or capillary system to measure very small sample volumes, making them well suited for nucleic acid and protein quantification in molecular biology workflows where sample volume is limited. They are optimized for rapid, routine measurements rather than full spectral scanning or accessory-intensive applications. Pedestal cleanliness and proper sample technique are important for accurate and reproducible results.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-beam">
<h2>Single-Beam vs Double-Beam UV-Vis</h2>
<p>Single-beam UV-Vis spectrophotometers measure the sample and reference sequentially using the same optical path, requiring a separate blank measurement before sample analysis. Double-beam instruments split the light source between a sample and reference beam simultaneously, providing continuous baseline correction and improved stability for scanning and kinetics applications. Double-beam designs are generally preferred for demanding scanning workflows and applications sensitive to lamp drift, while single-beam instruments are common for routine fixed-wavelength measurements. Optical architecture varies by model and should be confirmed for the specific instrument before purchasing.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-model-grid">
<h2>Popular UV-Vis Spectrophotometer Manufacturers and Models</h2>
<p>mLab Supply sources UV-Vis spectrophotometers from leading manufacturers including Thermo Scientific, Agilent Technologies, Shimadzu, DeNovix, and Implen. Common models available to source include:</p>
<dl>
<dt>Thermo Scientific</dt>
<dd>NanoDrop One, Evolution 220</dd>
<dt>Agilent Technologies</dt>
<dd>Cary 60, Cary 3500</dd>
<dt>Shimadzu</dt>
<dd>UV-1900i, UV-2600i</dd>
<dt>DeNovix</dt>
<dd>DS-11 FX+</dd>
<dt>Implen</dt>
<dd>NanoPhotometer N60</dd>
</dl>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-comparison-readers">
<h2>UV-Vis Spectrophotometers vs Microplate Readers</h2>
<p>UV-Vis spectrophotometers and <a href="/collections/microplate-readers">microplate readers</a> are complementary but distinct instruments. UV-Vis spectrophotometers typically measure individual samples in cuvettes or microvolume formats and are used for absorbance spectroscopy, spectral scanning, kinetics, and concentration measurements. Microplate readers measure many wells in parallel and are designed for plate-based assay workflows including ELISA, cell-based assays, and high-throughput screening. They are not interchangeable — the right instrument depends on your sample format and workflow requirements.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-used-refurbished">
<h2>Buying Used and Refurbished UV-Vis Spectrophotometers</h2>
<p>Used and refurbished UV-Vis spectrophotometers can offer significant cost savings compared to new instruments. When evaluating a used system, key inspection points include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Lamp condition:</strong> Lamp age and output affect photometric performance. Request lamp history where available. Lamp replacement status varies by unit.</li>
<li><strong>Detector condition:</strong> Confirm detector functionality and any known issues.</li>
<li><strong>Optics and sample compartment:</strong> Confirm optics are clean and free of damage. Sample compartment condition affects measurement quality.</li>
<li><strong>Cuvette holders:</strong> Confirm cuvette holder type and condition. Temperature-control modules and other accessories vary by unit.</li>
<li><strong>Microvolume pedestal:</strong> For microvolume instruments, confirm pedestal condition and cleanliness.</li>
<li><strong>Software and computer:</strong> Confirm software version, license status, and operating system compatibility. Computer inclusion varies by unit.</li>
<li><strong>Service history:</strong> Request available calibration and QC records where available.</li>
<li><strong>Accessories:</strong> Confirm which accessories are included. Configuration varies by unit.</li>
</ul>
<p>Lamp status, calibration, software licensing, and accessory completeness must be confirmed per unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used or refurbished instrument meets specific regulatory or institutional requirements without independent verification.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-microvolume">
<h2>Microvolume Spectrophotometer Considerations</h2>
<p>Microvolume spectrophotometers measure samples directly on a pedestal or capillary surface using a very small sample volume. Pedestal cleanliness is critical for accurate and reproducible results — contamination or residue from previous samples can affect measurements. Pathlength is typically determined automatically by the instrument based on sample surface tension. Software handles pathlength correction and reports concentration based on user-selected parameters. Data export formats and software compatibility vary by platform. Confirm software version and export capabilities when requesting a quote for a used microvolume instrument.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-applications">
<h2>Applications</h2>
<p>UV-Vis spectrophotometers support a wide range of analytical and research workflows including nucleic acid quantification, protein quantification, concentration measurements, absorbance spectroscopy, kinetics, chemical analysis, pharmaceutical research, biochemical assays, and general analytical laboratory workflows. Suitability for specific regulated applications or institutional quality requirements must be confirmed by the buyer and their compliance team.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-software">
<h2>Software, Accessories, and Workflow Considerations</h2>
<p>UV-Vis spectrophotometers vary in their software architecture — some use onboard touchscreen software, while others connect to a computer-based data acquisition platform. Confirm software version, license status, and operating system compatibility when requesting a quote. Accessories including cuvette holders, temperature-control modules, sippers, autosamplers, and fiber-optic probes vary by platform and are not guaranteed to be included with used instruments. Microvolume accessories and pedestals should be confirmed per unit. Data export formats and integration with laboratory information management systems vary by platform.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-installation">
<h2>Installation and Facility Planning</h2>
<p>UV-Vis spectrophotometers are benchtop instruments with compact footprints. Key installation considerations include available bench space, electrical requirements, environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, vibration), computer or workstation needs, and lamp warm-up requirements for some platforms. Performance verification is recommended after installation and after any relocation. Confirm all site requirements before finalizing a purchase.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-procurement">
<h2>Procurement and Logistics</h2>
<p>mLab Supply supports institutional procurement workflows including formal quotations, purchase orders, and vendor onboarding documentation. We can source specific UV-Vis spectrophotometer models and configurations on request. Freight coordination is available. We also purchase surplus and decommissioned UV-Vis spectrophotometers — contact us via the <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page if you have equipment available.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-related">
<h2>Related Laboratory Equipment</h2>
<p>Laboratories sourcing UV-Vis spectrophotometers often also require <a href="/collections/microplate-readers">microplate readers</a> for plate-based absorbance and fluorescence workflows, and <a href="/collections/cell-counters-and-viability-analyzers">cell counters and viability analyzers</a> for complementary cell quantification workflows. Browse <a href="/collections/thermo-scientific">Thermo Scientific laboratory equipment</a> and <a href="/collections/agilent-technologies">Agilent Technologies laboratory equipment</a> for additional instruments from those manufacturers. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> for current availability and pricing, or visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page if you have surplus spectrophotometers or other lab equipment to sell.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-faq">
<h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
<details><summary>What is a UV-Vis spectrophotometer?</summary><p>A UV-Vis spectrophotometer is an analytical instrument that measures the absorbance or transmittance of a sample across ultraviolet and visible wavelengths. It is used for concentration measurements, spectral analysis, kinetics, and a wide range of quantitative analytical workflows in research and industrial laboratories.</p></details>
<details><summary>What is the difference between UV-Vis and visible-only spectrophotometry?</summary><p>UV-Vis spectrophotometers measure across both ultraviolet (typically ~190–400 nm) and visible (400–800 nm) wavelength ranges. Visible-only spectrophotometers are limited to the visible range and cannot measure UV absorbance. UV-Vis instruments are more versatile and are required for nucleic acid and protein quantification, which rely on UV absorbance at 260 nm and 280 nm respectively.</p></details>
<details><summary>What is the difference between benchtop and microvolume spectrophotometers?</summary><p>Benchtop UV-Vis spectrophotometers use cuvettes and support a broad range of accessories and applications including scanning, kinetics, and temperature control. Microvolume spectrophotometers use a pedestal or capillary system to measure very small sample volumes (typically 1–2 µL), making them well suited for nucleic acid and protein quantification where sample volume is limited.</p></details>
<details><summary>What is the difference between a UV-Vis spectrophotometer and a microplate reader?</summary><p>UV-Vis spectrophotometers measure individual samples in cuvettes or microvolume formats and are used for absorbance spectroscopy, scanning, and concentration measurements. Microplate readers measure many wells in parallel for plate-based assay workflows. They are complementary instruments that serve different purposes and are not interchangeable.</p></details>
<details><summary>What should I inspect before buying a used UV-Vis spectrophotometer?</summary><p>Key inspection points include lamp condition and age, detector functionality, optics and sample compartment condition, cuvette holder type and condition, microvolume pedestal condition where applicable, software version and license status, computer inclusion and compatibility, and available service and calibration history. Accessory completeness varies by unit.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are lamps replaced before sale on used spectrophotometers?</summary><p>Lamp replacement status varies by unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that lamps have been replaced unless explicitly stated for a specific listing. Request lamp history and condition information when inquiring about a specific instrument.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are used UV-Vis spectrophotometers calibrated before sale?</summary><p>Calibration and performance verification status varies by unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used instrument has been calibrated or performance-verified unless explicitly stated for a specific listing. Request available calibration and QC documentation when inquiring about a specific instrument.</p></details>
<details><summary>Is software included with used UV-Vis spectrophotometers?</summary><p>Software inclusion and license status vary by unit. Confirm software version, license transferability, and operating system compatibility when requesting a quote. mLab Supply does not guarantee software license transferability on used instruments.</p></details>
<details><summary>Can mLab Supply source a specific Thermo Scientific, Agilent, Shimadzu, DeNovix, or Implen model?</summary><p>Yes. We source UV-Vis spectrophotometers from Thermo Scientific, Agilent Technologies, Shimadzu, DeNovix, Implen, and other manufacturers on request. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> with your preferred manufacturer, model, and configuration requirements and we will confirm current sourcing options and availability.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are refurbished UV-Vis spectrophotometers suitable for regulated laboratories?</summary><p>Suitability for regulated environments depends on the specific instrument's condition, calibration status, software licensing, and your institution's qualification requirements. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used or refurbished instrument meets specific regulatory or institutional standards without independent verification. Consult your quality and compliance team before purchasing for regulated use.</p></details>
<details><summary>Does mLab Supply coordinate freight and installation for UV-Vis spectrophotometers?</summary><p>Yes. Contact us when requesting a quote to discuss freight and any installation coordination requirements for your specific location.</p></details>
<details><summary>Does mLab Supply purchase surplus UV-Vis spectrophotometers?</summary><p>Yes. We purchase decommissioned and surplus UV-Vis spectrophotometers and other analytical instruments. Visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page to submit details about your equipment.</p></details>
</section>