DIY Spectrometer

Build your own spectrometer – Participate instead of just watching

Our DIY spectrometer is based on the e9u-TCD1304DG-STD/PRO line scan cameras and is ideal for schools, universities, research institutions, and maker labs.It is designed as a do-it-yourself spectrometer, so its construction and functionality are not only taught theoretically but also experienced practically.

Building the spectrometer yourself promotes an understanding of optical spectroscopy and illustrates physical relationships.

Pedagogical added value for STEM and university teaching

A self-built spectrometer helps to sustainably embed learning content.Those who construct their own Czerny-Turner spectrometer gain a much better understanding of the optical path and the functioning of optical components.The open design makes all components visible and understandable.The system is robust and can be maintained or adjusted independently by learners.

Flexibility through 3D printing and open construction plans

All mounts for mirrors, diffraction gratings, and slits can be manufactured using commercially available 3D printers.This allows for individual adaptations to different experiments.Housings can also be manufactured using 3D printing or laser cutting.CAD files are freely available, making modifications and extensions easy to implement.

Customizable spectrometer design

The DIY spectrometer can be customized to meet different requirements:

• Entrance slit: 10 µm, 30 µm, 100 µm
• Mirror focal lengths: 75 mm, 100 mm, 150 mm
• Diffraction grating: 300, 600, or 1200 lines per millimeter
• Light guide: plastic guide or glass fiber

High-quality technology despite DIY approach

The DIY spectrometer uses high-quality optoelectronic components, including a 3648-pixel CCD detector developed as part of a BMBF project.This enables low-noise, high-resolution measurements – even with weak signals or long integration times.

Diverse application examples and teaching ideas

The DIY spectrometer is suitable for numerous experiments in physics, chemistry, biology, and computer science:

• Spectra of light sources
• Emission and absorption measurements
• Transmission measurements of dyes
• Development of your own evaluation software 

On our website you will find many published application examples including sample spectra that can serve as a template for your own experiments.

Accessories and open-source nature

Planned extensions include calibration light sources, UV fluorescence modules, alignment aids, and Peltier cooling.The project is completely open source, including CAD files, control libraries, and sample code in C++ and Python.

The first prototypes of our spectrometers are already in use, and soon the DIY spectrometers will be available as finished devices or kits, as well as individual components, through our Maker web shop.

Reconstruction instructions are currently available upon request.

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