The UniSpec-DC is a dual spectrometer system that is ideal for remote sensing applications. It can be configured to sample incident and reflected light simultaneously.

This makes it possible to accurately measure reflectance of objects under changing light conditions, such as variable sunlight. Applications for the UniSpec-DC range from measuring reflectance of tree canopies (tram based or aircraft) to absorption of seawater. Because the spectral intensity of the incident light can change rapidly, the actual reflection / absorption can only be determined by simultaneous measurement of the incident and reflected light. The UniSpec-DC contains two independent spectrometer modules. A synchronization system controls the trigger and acquisition time of each spectrometer to within 20 ms. In addition the UniSpec-DC can operate in a stand-alone mode, and take sequences of measurements without an external computer. The system can be left unattended to make measurements of changing reflectance / absorption over extended periods of time. Alternatively, the system can be triggered remotely by a data logger or PC. The two spectrometers are cross calibrated by wavelength and the data arrays have adjustable bin sizes from 1-3 nm. Spectral intensity cross calibration is done to automatically compensate for inequalities in spectral sensitivity between the two spectrometers in successive measurements.