Vernier Provides Science Classrooms with the Ability to Detect More Compounds Using the 'Mini GC Plus' Gas Chromatograph

New instrument expands on the functionality of the original Mini GC

BEAVERTON, Ore., Dec. 5, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Expanding on the functionality of its original gas chromatograph, Vernier Software & Technology has released the Mini GC Plus. Designed for high school and college science laboratories, the Mini GC Plus is a portable instrument for separating, analyzing and identifying substances contained in a volatile liquid or gaseous sample. With the Mini GC Plus, students and educators can detect more compounds than with the original Mini GC.

"The new Mini GC Plus takes our already popular gas chromatograph to the next level," said David Vernier, co-founder of Vernier and a former physics teacher. "With the Mini GC Plus, chemistry instructors can not only detect more compounds, they can do so affordably."

The Mini GC Plus offers an increased maximum column temperature of 160 degrees C, providing users more flexibility in designing temperature profiles. It also features a MEMS chip sensor developed by Seacoast Science Inc. that can be set at either of two levels of sensitivity – standard sensitivity mode or high sensitivity mode. The standard sensitivity mode works well for polar compounds such as ketones, alcohols and esters, while the high sensitivity mode works well for compounds such as halogenated alkanes and substituted aromatics, as well as mixtures with one or more compounds of low concentration.

The Mini GC Plus uses an efficient, software-controlled internal pump system that allows the device to use room air as the carrier gas – a unique feature allowing the device to be both portable and affordable. An additional feature of the Mini GC Plus is the ability for students and educators to use Vernier's Logger Pro software and LabQuest App (sold separately) for column control and data collection, with peak integration analysis and retention-time determination built into the software.

Pricing and Availability
The Mini GC Plus is currently available for $1,799. For more information and detailed specifications, visit www.vernier.com.

About Vernier Software & Technology
Vernier Software & Technology has been a leading innovator of scientific data-collection technology for 31 years. Focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), Vernier is dedicated to developing creative ways to teach and learn using hands-on science. Vernier creates easy-to-use and affordable science interfaces, sensors, and graphing/analysis software. With world-wide distribution to over 130 countries, Vernier products are used by educators and students from elementary school to college. Vernier's technology-based solutions enhance STEM education, increase learning, and build students' critical thinking skills. Vernier's business culture is grounded in Earth-friendly policies and practices, and the company provides a family-friendly workplace. For more information, visit www.vernier.com.

SOURCE Vernier Software & Technology