Tosoh Bioscience LenS3 MALS
The LenS 3 Multi-Angle Light Scattering (MALS) Detector from Tosoh Bioscience represents the latest development in light scattering detection for the characterisation of macromolecules in solution. This next-generation instrument enables accurate and reproducible determination of absolute molecular weight (MW) and radius of gyration (Rg) of a wide range of analytes, including polymers, biomolecules, biopolymers, polysaccharides, and delivery vectors.
The system builds upon the established optical design of the original LenS3 MALS detector, incorporating a reduced cell volume to minimise band broadening and maintain chromatographic resolution when interfaced with U/HPLC systems and columns. The extended dynamic range of the detector supports the analysis of samples with both low and high scattering intensities, allowing for the precise characterisation of materials ranging from small synthetic polymers to large viral vectors.
Integration with SECview 3.1 software provides an optimised data acquisition and processing environment. The software features a refined user interface designed to facilitate semi-automated operation and efficient management of multiple datasets. A proprietary light scattering algorithm automatically selects appropriate models for MALS data evaluation, thereby reducing operator-dependent variability and improving consistency in molecular characterisation.
Through a combination of optical, mechanical, and computational enhancements, the LenS3 MALS detector delivers high sensitivity, accuracy, and robustness across a wide range of chromatographic applications. This instrument and its supporting software have been developed to simplify complex light scattering measurements while maintaining the precision required for advanced analytical research.
All pictures shown are for illustration purpose only. Actual product may vary.
Features
- Unique patent-pending optical and flow cell design – Delivers high sensitivity for low-scattering samples and extends the measurable range of molecular weight and radius of gyration
- Adjustable laser power – Enables accurate analysis of both low- and high-scattering samples across a wide concentration and molecular weight range
- Low-volume inert flow cell – Compatible with both aqueous and organic mobile phases, preserving chromatographic resolution when used with HPLC and UHPLC systems
- Extended Rg measurement capability – Employs a novel calculation method using the Angular Dissymmetry Plot and a patent-pending normalisation procedure for improved precision and signal-to-noise ratio
- High-speed data acquisition – Sampling rate up to 50 Hz supports the use of semi-micro and narrow-bore UHPLC columns without loss of resolution
- Intuitive SECview software – Provides streamlined workflows, simultaneous multi-method analysis, and straightforward calibration procedures for rapid determination of molecular weight and radius of gyration
- Comprehensive data processing tools – Delivers results within a few clicks, without model assumptions, and supports dn/dc and UV extinction coefficient measurements
- Enhanced signal stability and accuracy – Achieved through improved electronics, optical alignment, and proprietary scattering algorithms
Specification
| LenS3 | |
| Light Scattering | |
| Number of measurement angles | 3 |
| Position of the measurement angles | LALS (10°) RALS (90°) HALS (170°) |
| Cell geometry | Patented dual conical flow path (single inlet, dual outlets) |
| Total cell volume | 43 µL |
| Laser source type | Diode |
| Laser power | 1 – 50 mW (User adjustable) |
| Laser wavelength | 505 nm |
| Laser temperature control | Peltier |
| Wetted material | PTFE, PEEK, glass |
| Maximum flow rate | 5 mL/min |
| Inlet position | Side port (left) |
| Baseline noise (RMS without despiking) on RALS (90°) in THF @ 1 mL/min | < 1 mV |
| Typical signal-to-noise ratio on RALS for 50 µg of PS 100 KDa* | 2000:1 |
| MW range | < 200 to 108 Da** |
| Rg range | < 5 to > 250 nm** |
| Despiking level | User selectable (None, low, mid, high) |
| General | |
| Acquisition rate | 10 Hz |
| A/D board channels / resolution | 8 channels / 24 bit |
| Dynamic range | +/- 10 V |
| External analog inputs | 2 auxiliary channels |
| Trigger input | <= 12 V DC requiring dry contact closure |
| Trigger output | Dry contact closure |
| External USB hardware | 2 USB A, 1 USB C (powered) |
| Onboard PC OS | Windows 11 PRO |
| Onboard RAM / Storage | 16 GB / 1 TB |
| Onboard processing | SECview software |
| PC Connection | Ethernet cat 5 |
| Touch screen | 13.3 in |
| Dimensions | Width: 46.0 cm Depth: 58.5 cm Height: 25.1 cm |
| Weight | 19 kg |
| Operating environment | 5 – 35°C @ 10 to 80% relative humidity (no condensation) |
| Instrument voltage | 100 – 240 V AC @ 50 / 60 Hz |
| Power requirements | Typical 110 W, maximum 700 W |
| Intellectual property | PCT/US19/12090: Light Scattering Detectors and Sample Cells for the Same PCT/US19/12095: Light Scattering Detectors and Methods for the Same WO 2023/038621 A1: Light Scattering Detectors and Methods for the Same |
* Narrow distribution, using 1x 7.8 mm ID x 30 cm TSKgel GMHHR-M column
** Depends on chromatographic separation and sample injected mass, conformation and refractive index increment (dn/dc)
