Industrial Electronics

Hamamatsu Photonics’ newest compact, high-resolution mini-spectrometers for UV to NIR spectroscopy

18 November 2025

Hamamatsu Photonics has launched the WS series Mini-Spectrometers, a highly versatile new addition to the company's spectrometer lineup. Designed for effective performance in diverse scenarios, these advanced mini spectrometers deliver exceptional and customizable spectral coverage and resolution in a compact, lightweight enclosure.

The WS series encompasses two models. The C16449MA-01 provides a broad spectral response range from UV to NIR (190 to 1,100 nm), while the C16449MA-02 is optimized for high spectral resolution with a tailored range suited for advanced analytical applications (200 nm to 600 nm). Both models incorporate a reflective grating optical system paired with a high-sensitivity CMOS sensor, ensuring high performance equivalent to that of traditional CCDs.

Source: Hamamatsu PhotonicsSource: Hamamatsu Photonics

Key features of the WS Series mini spectrometers:

  • Wide spectral response range: The C16449MA-01 model is versatile for materials analysis, quality control and scientific research.
  • High spectral resolution: The C16449MA-02 is tailored for applications like laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), offering a spectral resolution of 0.45 nm for precise material characterization.
  • Compact design: Measuring just 80 mm × 75 mm × 25 mm, the C16449MA series of mini spectrometers can be easily integrated into various systems without requiring an external power supply, thanks to USB bus powering.
  • Flexible customization: The reflective grating design allows the WS series to be custom-tailored to customer requirements. Spectral response range and resolution can be optimized for specific applications.

Applications

These spectrometers are exceptionally versatile, making them suitable for R&D, engineers and industrial professionals needing:

· Film thickness measurement: Delivering consistent quality control in manufacturing and R&D for coatings and thin films.

· LIBS analysis: Providing detailed material characterization through high-resolution spectral data.

· Color measurement: Ensuring accurate color assessment in product development and quality control environments.

· Gas analysis: Supporting environmental monitoring and industrial settings with high-precision gas detection and characterization.

In addition, Hamamatsu Photonics offers free evaluation software with functions for setting measurement conditions, acquiring and saving data and drawing graphs. The DLL function specifications are disclosed, allowing users to create their own, original measurement software programs. The company also offers integration support as part of its service.

To contact the author of this article, email GlobalSpecEditors@globalspec.com


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