Metrohm MIRA DS Product manual

Significance of the topic

The increasing need for rapid, nondestructive chemical analysis in field environments has driven the development of portable Raman systems such as the Metrohm Instant Raman Analyzer (MIRA) series.
By combining high-powered 785 nm lasers with orbital raster scan (ORS) technology, handheld Raman instruments deliver reliable material identification for first responders, security forces, and industrial quality-control teams.
Their compact form factor, robust design, and modular attachments enable safe, on-site detection of solids and liquids through various packaging.

Objectives and product overview

This manual provides a comprehensive guide to the MIRA DS handheld Raman spectrometer, covering:

• Available model variants (Basic, Advanced, Flex) and included Smart Tips
• Software ecosystem, including MIRA Cal DS (PC), MIRA Cal M (Android), and optional HazMasterG3
• Safety requirements for electrical, laser, and chemical hazards
• Instrumentation layout, packaging, and storage recommendations
• Installation procedures for software, power options (batteries, PowerPack), and USB connectivity
• Operational workflows for calibration, sample acquisition, and data management
• Maintenance, cleaning, disposal, and technical specifications

Methodology and Instrumentation

High-Performance Raman System

• 785 nm CW laser, class 3B output up to 100 mW
• Orbital Raster Scan (ORS) averaging for uniform spot illumination
• Spectral range 400–2300 cm⁻¹, resolution 8–10 cm⁻¹
• NA 0.50 optics; spot sizes from 0.04 to 2.5 mm
• IP67-rated anodized aluminum housing; MIL-STD-810G ruggedization

Smart Tip Attachments

• Universal and intelligent Universal (iUA) attachments for surface, bag, and bottle modes
• Autofocus stand-off (AFSO) and manual stand-off probes for distances up to 2 m
• Short, long, and extra-long working distance lenses for various container thicknesses
• SERS adapter compatible with proprietary substrates
• Vial and tablet holders with interlock for class 1 safety operation
• Stainless steel Contact Ball-Probe for direct sample contact
• ASTM-traceable Calibration Standard for wavelength calibration and system suitability

Software and Connectivity

• MIRA Cal DS desktop application for device configuration, library management, and calibration
• MIRA Cal M mobile app for Android: sample review, library activation, Bluetooth® transfer
• HazMasterG3 integration for CBRNE threat identification (optional)
• USB 3.0 mini-B interface for data transfer and external power
• Bluetooth® for remote sample download and workflow control

Main features and performance

Key operational elements include:

• Smart Acquire for automated optimization of laser power and integration times
• Content ID mode with iUA for simultaneous container and contents analysis
• On-device mixture deconvolution and library matching with high-quality index (HQI)
• Operating procedures builder for custom acquisition routines
• Scan log with editable records, reprocessing, and export via USB or wireless
• GHS hazard pictograms and three-level color coding for rapid risk assessment
• Up to 3.5 h runtime on AA batteries, or 9 h on optional Li-Ion PowerPack
• Automatic system calibration and performance verification with onboard standard

Benefits and practical applications

• First-responder field screening of narcotics, explosives, and hazardous materials
• Customs and border control for containerized cargo inspection
• Industrial process control and QA/QC in pharmaceuticals, polymers, and chemicals
• Forensic investigations requiring non-destructive evidence acquisition
• Environmental monitoring of pollutants and toxic industrial chemicals
• Remote and robotic deployments leveraging stand-off attachments

Future trends and potential applications

• Integration with AI and cloud-based spectral libraries for real-time collaborative workflows
• Enhanced multiplex SERS substrates for trace-level detection in security and bioanalysis
• Advanced stand-off sensing via unmanned vehicles and robotic platforms
• Broader material detection databases covering emerging chemical threats
• Augmented reality (AR) interfaces for guided sample targeting and remote support
• Battery and power management improvements for extended autonomous operation

Conclusion

The MIRA DS series exemplifies a next-generation handheld Raman platform, delivering rapid, non-destructive chemical identification across diverse field applications.
Its modular Smart Tip design, robust hardware, and comprehensive software ecosystem support safe and efficient workflows for first responders, security personnel, and industrial laboratories.
Through ongoing enhancements in spectral libraries, attachment technology, and data integration, MIRA DS remains positioned to address evolving analytical challenges in situ.