openQCM Q-1
The first open-hardware scientific inStrument ready for soft matter Research
Sweeping around resonance frequency
How openQCM Q-1 acquires resonance curves in order to monitor the dissipation effect.
simultaneous frequency, dissipation and phase measurements
openQCM Q-1 is based on AD8302 RF/IF Gain and Phase Detector which is a fully integrated system for measuring gain/loss trought quartz sensor and phase difference between actuation and sensor reaponse.
overtones analyses
Thanks to DDS technology openQCM Q-1 is capable to passively interrogate quartz sensor not only at fundamental frequency, but also at its overtones (n= 1, 3, 5, 7) enhancing the measurement performances.
o-ring pressure fine regulation
We re-design openQCM fluidic cell in order to obtain the maximum flexibility. As example we designed an innovative sealing system to fine tuning the oring pressure on the quartz crystal surface.
pogo pins sensor contacts
Electric interface with quartz sensors are guarantee by means high quality gold pogo-pins
multi quartz hosting
A flexible holder design to host quartz with different frequencies and diameters. A unique quartz crystal chamber compatible with a wide range of sensors.
DDS sweep technology
openQCM Q-1 measures frequency and Q-factor by sweeping around sensor resonance frequency thanks to the use of AD9851 component. AD9851 is a CMOS high speed DDS/DAC Synthesizer, which is capable of generate an sine wave with an arbitrary frequency from 0 to 60 MHz.
Expansion slot for custom shields
Main PCB electronic of openQCM Q-1 is designed with 2 connectors expansion slots which exploit all the functionality for custom expansion modules (eg.: thermal control by Peltier)
We designed keeping in mind the concept of modularity
The modular design give us the maximum flexibility for future improvements. For example, it would be easier to modify the original main electronic design, based on the feedback coming from the scientific community, without the need to change the whole device.
