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Measuring an Emission Spectrum with a LabQuest 

You may use your spectrometer to measure the emission spectrum of a light source 
such as an LED or a gas discharge tube. To do so, you may wish to purchase an 
optical fiber assembly (www.vernier.com/VSP-EM) though this is not required.  

Measure Intensity of Light Emissions 

Intensity is reported in relative units with a range of 0–1. 

Note:

 The spectrometer is 

not calibrated for measuring absolute intensity. 
Aim the sensor opening or the tip of the optical fiber cable at a light source. Start 
data collection. Tap the red Stop button to end data collection. 
If the spectrum saturates, displaying flat and wide peaks near 1.0, increase the 
distance between the light source and the sensor or tip of the optical fiber cable.  You 
can also adjust data-collection parameters by tapping Sensors and choosing Data 
Collection. Reduce the Sample Time until peaks are less than 1.0. 
 

Sample Experiments 

There are several experiments available for use with the Vernier Emissions 
Spectrometer. Visit our web site (www.vernier.com/vsp-em) for more information. 
 

Specifications 

 

Dimensions 

10.1 cm × 7.0 cm × 4.5 cm 

Power supply 

USB powered 

Detector 

Linear CCD 

Wavelength range 

350 nm–900 nm 

Wavelength reporting interval  

1 nm 

Optical resolution* 

3 nm 

Typical wavelength accuracy† 

±2 nm 

*as determined by the full width of half maximum of Hydrogen 434 nm peak  
†as determined by Hydrogen peaks. For best accuracy use an optical fiber. 

 

Warranty 

Vernier warrants this product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship 
for a period of five years from the date of shipment to the customer. This warranty 
does not cover damage to the product caused by abuse or improper use. 

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Vernier Software & Technology  

13979 S. W. Millikan Way 

 Beaverton, OR 97005-2886 

Toll Free (888) 837-6437 

 (503) 277-2299 

 FAX (503) 277-2440 

info@vernier.com 

 www.vernier.com 

 

Rev. 1/2/2014 
Logger

 Pro

, Logger Lite, Vernier LabQuest, Vernier LabQuest Mini, Vernier LabPro, Go!

 

Link, Vernier EasyLink and 

other marks shown are our trademarks or registered trademarks in the United States. 
All other marks not owned by us that appear herein are the property of their respective owners, who may or may not be 
affiliated with, connected to, or sponsored by us. 

 
 
Printed on recycled paper. 

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