The four condenser lens options offered with these kits differ in the type of lens used and F/# (F Number). Two specific lens types are used in these condenser lens configurations:

• Plano Convex: Most economic lens option, utilizes an asymmetric lens shape to minimize spherical aberration
• Aspheric: The front surface of an aspheric lens gradually changes in curvature from the center of the lens to the edge. This shape reduces spherical aberration more effectively than a Plano Convex Lens

F/# should also be considered when selecting a condenser lens. A smaller F/# means the lens is placed closer to the light source inside the lamp housing. This allows for greater radiant flux as more light is collected by the lens. However, this also causes greater lens aberration. As a result, more light does not mean more quality light. Higher F/#'s are suggested if a high quality collimated beam is needed from the output of the lamp housing. However, lower F/#'s are suggested for coupling to a monochromator due to their higher throughput

Each light source includes a QTH lamp, appropriate socket adapter, lamp housing interconnection cable, power supply, and Research Lamp Housing. After a quick and easy assembly, the light source is ready for use and easily integrated into a user's setup. The lamp housings offered with these light source kits are capable of operating all 50-250 W QTH lamps. This allows the user to interchange lamps in their setup simply by replacing the lamp and socket adapter (if necessary) in their lamp housing.