Transilluminators for visualizing gel bands
Herolab transilluminators illuminate gels from below. The appropriate light source depends on the stain and its excitation spectrum. UV, blue-light, and white-light versions are different instruments or configurations and are not freely interchangeable.
UV, blue light, or white light?
- UV transilluminators: For UV-excitable fluorescent stains, such as ethidium bromide. The wavelength and filter area are selected to suit the application.
- Blue-light LED transilluminators: For stains with a suitable blue-light excitation spectrum. Check compatibility against the stain documentation.
- White-light LED transilluminators: For viewing visibly stained gels, such as Coomassie- or silver-stained gels.
Configurations and selection criteria
The UV product line includes model-dependent wavelengths of 254, 312, or 365 nm and different filter areas. High Contrast (HC) versions and Herolab LongLife® electronics are described in the product overview. The features listed there apply to the specific version, not automatically to every model.
Please provide the gel dimensions, stain, desired wavelength, and planned imaging system. Converter plates and camera filters must be compatible with the instrument and light source.
Model sizes and equipment
- UVT-14: 11 × 14 cm filter area.
- UVT-22: 14 × 22 cm filter area.
- UVT-20: 20 × 20 cm filter area.
- UVT-28: 22 × 28 cm filter area.
- UVT-40: 20 × 40 cm filter area.
The dimensions refer to the filter area, not the housing dimensions. Not every combination of size, wavelength, and equipment is listed as a model.
The Standard and Advanced UV versions described in the catalog include an adjustable UV protection shield. For Economy (E) versions, the shield is optional and must be selected separately. Multiwave versions combine UV wavelengths; V denotes variable intensity control.
Blue light: consider the instrument generation
In addition to LED versions, the older accessories overview lists BE models with 18 W blue-light tubes. The term “blue light” alone therefore does not identify the light-source technology. For replacement parts, please provide the full model designation, year of manufacture, and nameplate details; tubes and LED light sources are not interchangeable.
Safe handling
UV radiation can injure eyes and skin. Follow the operating instructions and use shielding and protective equipment appropriate to the wavelength and application.
Product documents
Technical information is based on the product overview dated January 2024. Confirm the current configuration, supplied items, and availability before ordering.
Transilluminators — models and technical data (German, PDF)
Transilluminators — product overview (English, PDF)
Compatible UV accessories
All UV product lines
