AstraNet Systems is a small company that has been able to achieve big results by applying a core technology to different applications. The UK-based company designs, manufacturers and markets standard and customized spectrophotometers, fluorimeters, radiometers and reflectance probes, all based on fiber optic–coupled CCD-array (FOC-CCDA) technology. AstraNet systems are used in life science labs, in the food and beverage industries, and for environmental testing.

Ten years after its inception, AstraNet remains a small operation. “[AstraNet] was incorporated in 2001 to exploit the integration of fiber optics and CCD array detectors in the design of laboratory spectrophotometers,” Business Development Manager Ray Wood told IBO. “[Company founder Mike Mills] saw an opportunity, beyond the modular FOC-CCDA spectrophotometers then available, for more clearly defined preconfigured instruments, taking away the pressure on the customer to understand the technical detail of spectrophotometry.” Although the company’s instruments are now sold worldwide, they are still made in the UK. “AstraNet is based on a networking business model, with just four full-time employees supported by a network of local suppliers, contractors and consultants. All design concepts and final manufacture are carried out in-house, along with sales, marketing and technical support.”

Compared with traditional benchtop UV, VIS and NIR spectroscopy systems, AstraNet’s systems have a smaller footprint, an integrated fiber optic probe and no moving parts. The small size allows the systems to be more easily transported to the site of the sample. “Most measurement techniques are born in the laboratory, where the samples are brought to the instrument,” Mr. Wood told IBO. “As they mature, the instrument eventually leaves the lab to go to the sample, whether as a portable meter or an in-line/on-line measuring system. The integration of fiber optics in spectrophotometry is already speeding up that process.”

AstraNet develops standard systems for specific market segments and offers customized systems. Its most popular product, according to Mr. Wood, is the AstraGene, which measures DNA, RNA and proteins. The system can work with little sample—as small as 2 µl—and allows full sample recovery. “In our system, the sample is picked up in the pipette tip, and the tip is placed between—not touching—the two fibers,” Mr. Wood explained. “The sample is protected from evaporation and potential contamination, while the operator is protected from any pathogens in the sample. The sample can be returned for other analysis.”

AstraNet expects to evolve with the market. “In a few years, the traditional, general-purpose spectrophotometer will be confined to secondary and tertiary education for an understanding of the principles,” Mr. Wood said. “Outside of that market, the customer base for spectrophotometers will be divided amongst a number of dedicated applications, with the users hardly aware that the instrument analyzing their sample is actually a spectrophotometer.” AstraNet plans to apply its experience to future products and is open to collaboration. “Where a market is new to us or has a complex structure, we are always willing to work with partners who have established routes to a specific market.”