Interesting Technology

Cambridge scientists create a spectrometer costing $10

Researchers from the University of Cambridge and the startup GlitterinTech have created a new type of optical spectrometer. The device measures only a few centimeters across and costs just $10. Spectrometers analyze light to determine which substances it has interacted with, but small devices usually lose out in accuracy. The new device, called a convolutional spectrometer, uses the convolution theorem and performs that operation directly on the incoming light. According to the team, this approach outperforms existing spectrometers on some measures. The researchers hope the device could make it possible to monitor blood glucose without needles, and also be useful for food testing and environmental monitoring.

Not covered in Armenian media (checked 23 October)