Digital Head Space Analyzer for Modified Atmosphere Packaging

The Checkmate series of headspace analyzers are microprocessor-controlled oxygen and carbon dioxide analyzers for modified atmosphere (MAP) food and pharmaceutical packaging. The instruments produce an analysis of headspace gas samples as small as 1 ml, making them suitable for most types of modified atmosphere packages. The analyzers cover the range of 0.001%-100% oxygen and 0%-100% carbon dioxide. The analyzers feature a proprietary zirconium oxygen detector, which warms up more quickly than traditional detectors of this type; the instrument is ready to use in less than 10 min. from a cold start.

Operation is fully automatic. The operator needs only to insert the needle into a package, and the instrument will automatically initiate a measuring cycle and produce a complete headspace analysis in less than 2 sec. The analysis is displayed on an LCD and also stored in the internal memory. The data can be printed on an optional built-in thermal printer or downloaded to a PC or external printer via the RS232 data port. The user can set high-and low-level alarms and can program and save different alarm settings for different product types. The analyzer is available as an oxygen-only unit or as a combined O₂/CO₂ analyzer.

Topac Inc., 99 Derby St., Suite 303, Hingham, MA 02043. Contact: Antoni Drybanski, 781-740-8778; Fax: 781-740-8779.