A new hard and software concept for impedance spectroscopy analysers for broadband process measurements

Abstract

The control of biological and biotechnological processes requires robust online monitoring. Broadband impedance spectroscopy provides information on cell viability, number of cells or the fraction of dry matter. Here we present a new concept for impedance spectroscopy (IMPSPEC) for fast measurements which still provides high resolution. This concept is suitable for laboratory instrumentation as well as process monitoring. The equipment consists of modules for different frequency ranges (DC - 5 GHz) and analogue front ends in order to meet individual requirements at affordable cost. The device utilizes the multi-sinus-technique between DC and 10 MHz and the maximum length sequence correlation (MLC) technique up to 5 GHz. Here we show examples in order to demonstrate the concept as an economical alternative to expensive laboratory equipment. © Springer-Verlag 2007.