Overview

The Junior LB 9509 is a small, portable tube luminometer developed by Berthold Technologies for all common applications using glow-type bioluminescent and chemiluminescent reagents. Weighing only 2 kg and equipped with rechargeable batteries, it delivers research-level sensitivity in a compact form factor that can be used anywhere — in the laboratory, on site, or outdoors.

Unlike typical portable luminometers that offer only basic pass/fail discrimination, the Junior provides performance comparable to laboratory benchtop instruments. With single photon counting detection and a dynamic range exceeding 6 orders of magnitude, it is suitable for demanding quantitative assays in biomedical research, clinical diagnostics, hygiene monitoring, biotechnology process control, and environmental water quality testing.

Applications

The Junior LB 9509 supports a wide range of glow luminescence applications across multiple fields:

Key Features

• True single photon counting photomultiplier for research-grade sensitivity
• Standard model detects <3 fmol ATP per tube; high-sensitivity model detects <50 amol ATP per tube
• Dynamic range >6 orders of magnitude — measure weak and strong signals without changing settings
• Lightweight at only 2 kg for easy transport and field use
• Rechargeable batteries enable hours of independent operation away from mains power
• Automatic battery recharging when connected to AC mains in the laboratory
• Unique measuring chamber accepts multiple tube formats without adapters
• Built-in software operated through a membrane keypad — no PC required
• Graphical display shows protocol, sample number, and RLU value
• Red, yellow, and green LEDs for instant pass/fail limit indication
• Stores up to 2,000 measurement results with time and location search criteria
• Optional WinTerm software for USB data transfer to Windows PC
• Energy-saving display illumination turns off automatically when idle
• Metal transport case available for safe outdoor deployment

Detection Performance

The Junior utilizes a state-of-the-art photomultiplier tube operated in single photon counting mode with a spectral range of 380–630 nm. Berthold's stringent detector selection process ensures negligible day-to-day variation, providing high reliability for longitudinal studies and routine screening.

The wide dynamic range allows users to measure both dim and bright samples in the same run without manual gain adjustments or dilutions, streamlining workflow and reducing operator error.

Sample Compatibility

The unique measuring chamber design accommodates a variety of common tube formats without requiring adapters or modifications:

• Luminescence tubes, 12 × 47 mm
• Luminescence tubes, 12 × 55 mm
• Luminescence tubes, 12 × 75 mm
• Vials, 15 × 42 mm
• Microcentrifuge tubes, 1 mL, 1.5 mL, and 2 mL
• Capped vials, 4 mL (14 × 54 mm)

Operation & Data Management

The Junior is operated entirely through its built-in membrane keypad and graphical display — no external computer is required for routine measurements. The illuminated display shows the selected protocol, current sample location and number, and the measured RLU value in real time.

A set of three coloured LEDs provides immediate visual feedback: green indicates the signal is below the lower limit, yellow indicates the signal is between limits, and red indicates the signal exceeds the upper limit. This makes pass/fail screening fast and unambiguous even in busy field environments.

Up to 2,000 measurement results are stored in the instrument's internal memory. Results can be searched by criteria such as measurement time and location, then reviewed directly on the display or downloaded to a PC via USB using the optional WinTerm software.

Portability & Power

The Junior is designed for mobility. Its 2 kg weight and compact footprint allow it to be carried easily to sampling locations for on-site measurements. Rechargeable batteries provide many hours of continuous operation, and spare battery sets are available for extended fieldwork. When connected to AC mains in the laboratory, the instrument operates on wall power while simultaneously recharging the batteries.

For laboratories requiring frequent outdoor or off-site deployment, an optional metal transport case provides secure storage and protection for the instrument and its accessories.

Technical Specifications