Why Are 488nm LED Options Hard to Find for Cell Sorting?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the difficulty of finding 488nm LED options for use in fluorescence activated cell sorting, exploring alternatives to traditional argon ion lasers. Participants inquire about the availability of suitable light sources and discuss the implications of using LEDs in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses frustration at the lack of available 488nm LEDs and seeks recommendations for retail sources.
  • Another participant questions the necessity of a focused light source at 488nm, suggesting that a broader spectrum might suffice if it includes 488nm.
  • A different viewpoint suggests that while filtering out unwanted spectrum components is possible, the power of the light source should be managed to avoid damaging biological samples.
  • One participant proposes using a UV spectrum source at 388nm instead, questioning the need for 488nm for fluorescence applications.
  • Another participant provides links to various products that may meet the 488nm requirement, emphasizing the importance of using a sensitive detector for live cell applications.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the necessity of 488nm LEDs versus alternative light sources, and there are differing opinions on the implications of using broader spectrum light for fluorescence applications.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention the potential for filtering out unwanted wavelengths, but the effectiveness of such filtering and the specific requirements for fluorescence applications remain unresolved.

SupaVillain
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Why can't I find any LED's at 488nm? I am trying to find a cheaper light source than the traditional argon ion laser for a possible fluorescence activated cell sorter. See link below for schematic. Does anybody know a good retail site for lights in this spectrum I can't find good results with google.

http://thebigone.stanford.edu/papers/Fu%20nature%20america.pdf
 
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SupaVillain said:
Why can't I find any LED's at 488nm? I am trying to find a cheaper light source than the traditional argon ion laser for a possible fluorescence activated cell sorter. See link below for schematic. Does anybody know a good retail site for lights in this spectrum I can't find good results with google.

http://thebigone.stanford.edu/papers/Fu%20nature%20america.pdf
How well focused does it have to be? That is, if it has a significant amount at 488 is it OK for it to have quite a bit in the surrounding region of the spectrum and if so, how far away from 488 is OK? There are inexpensive LED sources that show a range that includes 488.
 
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I have no idea, i mean i bet i can filter out the unwanted parts of the spectrum anyways but really I think for biofluorescence it shouldn't take much power. When i think of a laser and high power, all that does is burn whatever it's pointed at. Not trying to burn the cultures. I would much rather try out the cheap version than spend a bunch of money on something i don't really need. Can you link me what you see at 488?
 
Hm ... I was thinking UV spectrum at 388, not visible at 488. I can't see why you would want 488 if what you are looking for is fluorescence. To get 488 just buy a $4 "black light" bulb at a hardware store (but I don't think you'll get any fluorescence off of what you shine it on; at least I know that's true of wood)