New Hand-Held Analyser, Rapid Screening for RoHS Compliance

The new xSORT hand-held XRF analyser from Spectro Analytical Instruments (Germany) is the ideal tool for the rapid screening of electronic components and products to check for the presence of substances banned under the RoHS regulations and for screening other material of environmental concern. It is also perfect for screening for lead in a variety of consumer products from paints to toys.

XRF (X-ray Fluorescence) is one of the techniques described in the IEC-62321 standard for the detection of the regulated substances - lead, mercury, cadmium, chromium and bromine, an ingredient in PBB and PBDE flame retardants. As well as these six key elements, xSORT can measure all significant elements from Silicon to Uranium, and can handle samples as diverse as wires, insulation material and plastic cabinets. An optional ”Docking Station” effectively converts the xSORT to a bench-top instrument allowing safe analysis of very small or thin samples.

The SPECTRO xSORT is exceptionally easy to use. Its unique calibration protocol means that calibration is performed automatically between readings. All the operator has to do is to point the instrument at the test sample and press the trigger, when analysis is usually complete within 30 seconds – although for a preliminary check less statistically precise values appear after only a few seconds. No specialist analytical knowledge is needed; results are calculated and displayed automatically on the built-in PDA. Complete with battery pack, the x-SORT weighs less than 4 pounds (1.7 Kg) and has an ergonomically designed handle and grip. The specially developed SDD detector enables up to 10 times faster signal processing than conventional instruments. Coupled together with an optimised, miniature X-ray tube, the xSORT delivers highly precise results at short measurement times.