Multiple beam computer-controlled optical tweezer system from Elliot Scientific

Elliot Scientific's flagship E3400 optical tweezer system was designed for multiple beam particle trapping and nanoscale-manipulation experiments. Beam control is provided by high speed acousto-optic deflectors driven by a computer controlled module. The supplied software is designed to allow for the creation and independent manipulation of multiple optical traps anywhere within the field of view in X and Y directions. A high-speed GigE interface camera allows visualization of the particles making trapping and tracking easy.

Traps are created and positioned in the unique, simple to use software by mouse control. They can be single spots, line or circular arrays. The spacing, orientation and number of traps can be easily adjusted via the control panel and traps can be added or removed at any time without affecting the existing ones. Multiple arrays and spots can be manipulated totally independently of each other and a number of sample movies showing this in action are available to view and for download from www.elliotscientific.com.

A range of interfaces for both systems are available dependant on the make and model of microscope.

Elliot's Optical Tweezer E3100 and E3200 systems have found many applications such as DNA property measurement, particle spectroscopy, and cell sorting. Until recently, optical (or laser) tweezers have been confined to specialised researchers using complex microscopes. They offer the ability to retrofit existing microscopes and bring optical tweezing into the lab at an affordable price. The company also offers the E3300 single spot system designed for trapping and manipulation of micron sized particles.