Hamamatsu Photonics launches its WS Series Mini-Spectrometers

Highly versatile mini-spectrometer ideal for modern spectroscopy

19 Nov 2025

Product news

Hamamatsu Photonics WS Series Mini-Spectrometers

WS Series Mini-Spectrometers

Hamamatsu Photonics has launched the WS Series Mini-Spectrometers, a highly versatile new addition to the company's spectrometer lineup. Designed for effective performance in diverse scenarios, these advanced mini-spectrometers deliver exceptional and customizable spectral coverage and resolution in a compact, lightweight enclosure.

The WS Series encompasses two models: the C16449MA-01 and the C16449MA-02. The C16449MA-01 provides a broad spectral response range from UV to NIR (190 to 1100 nm), while the C16449MA-02 is optimized for high spectral resolution with a tailored range suited for advanced analytical applications (200 to 600 nm).

Both models incorporate a reflective grating optical system paired with a high-sensitivity CMOS sensor, ensuring high performance equivalent to that of traditional CCDs.

Key features of the WS Series Mini Spectrometers include:

  • Wide spectral response range: The C16449MA-01 model is versatile for materials analysis, quality control, and scientific research.
  • High spectral resolution: The C16449MA-02 is tailored for applications like Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS), offering a spectral resolution of 0.45 nm for precise material characterization.
  • Compact design: Measuring 80 × 75 × 25 mm, the C16449MA series of mini-spectrometers can be easily integrated into various systems without requiring an external power supply, thanks to USB bus powering.
  • Flexible customization: The reflective grating design allows the WS Series to be custom-tailored to customer requirements. Spectral response range and resolution can be optimized for specific applications.

These spectrometers are versatile, making them suitable for R&D, engineers, and industrial professionals needing:

  • Film thickness measurement: Delivering consistent quality control in manufacturing and R&D for coatings and thin films.
  • LIBS (laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy) analysis: Providing detailed material characterization through high-resolution spectral data.
  • Color measurement: Ensuring accurate color assessment in product development and quality control environments.
  • Gas analysis: Supporting environmental monitoring and industrial settings with high-precision gas detection and characterization.

In addition, Hamamatsu Photonics offers free evaluation software with functions for setting measurement conditions, acquiring and saving data, and drawing graphs. The DLL function specifications are disclosed, allowing users to create their own, original measurement software.

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Near Infrared SpectroscopyNear-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy measures the interaction of near-infrared light with a sample, including transmission, reflectance and absorbance, facilitating the identification of analytes. Measurements can be conducted using a Fourier-transform near infrared (FT-NIR) spectrometer, while there are also UV-Vis- NIR spectrophotometers that measure a broader spectrum of wavelengths. Find the best NIR spectroscopy products in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.UV-Visible SpectroscopyUltraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometers are used to measure the interaction of UV and visible light with a sample, including transmission, reflectance & absorbance. The two major instrument classes are single-beam or double-beam spectrophotometers. More specialized equipment includes colorimeters, spectroradiometers and refractometers. Portable and microvolume spectrophotometers are also available. For the modular spectroscopy lab, explore a range of light sources for combination with a spectrograph/spectrometer and optics. Find the best UV-Vis spectroscopy products in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Gas AnalysisGas analysis is used to measure the composition of gases in various environments, such as industrial processes, air quality monitoring, and environmental studies. Techniques like gas chromatography and mass spectrometry are commonly used. Explore gas analysis tools in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.LIBS