A correlator for light-scattering experiments

Light scattering is frequently used to examine the random motion of physical system particles. By evaluating the autocorrelation function of the acquired signal, structural informations of macromolecular solutions can be obtained. We here present an instrument able to calculate the correlation function in real time. The instrument features high precision capabilities and a wide range of selectable delays. A Digital Signal Processor (DSP) is charged with the calculations, while a PC permits the user the management of the global instrument and the visualization and the storing of the evaluated correlation.