ANL-955 Light Detector

Having a record of light levels is of general interest for many experimental scenarios. One common example is the field of circadian rhythms. Here, it is essential to know when house lights are coming on and turning off, as biological rhythms are exquisitely sensitive to ambient lighting. Another useful application for recording light levels would be to have a documented record of when stimulus lights are turning on and off in an experimental session.

Our new ANL-955 Light Detector can be used to make these kinds of measurements. It is very easy to use and it provides a reliable record of when the lights turn on and off. The ANL-955 can be used in conjunction with a MED-PC® system, in which case the device connects to an available input in your system. When the lights are on, the ANL-955 generates a signal that is read as an input by MED-PC®. When the lights turn off, the associated input in MED-PC® turns off. Using the ANL-955 in conjunction with one of our running wheels (e.g. ENV-046), you could gather data similar to the results shown in the figure to the right.

Alternatively, the ANL-955 can be used as a stand-alone device that sends a signal to some other data recording system. If it is not used in conjunction with a MED-PC® interface, the ANL-955 can be powered by an external DC power supply. In this case, one can monitor the light levels via a TTL output on the ANL-955. The logic for the TTL output will be read low when the lights are off and high when the lights are on.

The sensitivity of the ANL-955 light detector can be user-adjusted using the “Sensitivity” adjustment on the front surface of the device. The user simply turns the Sensitivity adjustment until the desired sensitivity is achieved. LEDs on the front panel are conveniently located to show the user when the ANL-955 measures a Dark condition and Light condition. Adjustment is usually performed by placing the ANL-955 in the desired location facing the light source to be monitored and adjusting the sensitivity until desired performance is obtained (Dark LED is illuminated when the lights are OFF, and Light LED is illuminated when the lights are ON).

If you have ever wanted an affordable and simple way to measure light levels in your experiments, you may find that the ANL-955 is just what you were looking for. Whether you intend to use the device in conjunction with MED-PC® or as a TTL device, you will find that the ANL-955 will add a significant enhancement when you need to have an accurate record of light levels synchronized with other experimental data. Please contact our sales department for more information.