Here are some of the most frequently asked questions our clients have asked us about the Challenge Environmental Respirometer. 

If you don't see your question below, let us know by contacting us via email, phone, or web form.

1. How sensitive is your system?
2. Do I have to purchase costly supplies?
3. Do I need special reagents or other specialized supplies?
4. How difficult is the set-up of your instruments?
5. Why is stirring rate important in a respirometer?
6. What size of reactors can you use?
7. Do I need a special computer, or a board to install into my computer?
8. Is the Challenge respirometer an aerobic respirometer only?
9. What supplies or hardware are required for operation in the anaerobic mode?

1.  How sensitive is the Challenge Environmental system?

Oxygen input increment, and therefore cell sensitivity, is less than 0.06 mg.

2.   Do I have to purchase costly supplies?

No, the glassware and supplies can be purchased through a number of suppliers, thereby allowing you to optimize costs.

3.  Do I need special reagents or other specialized supplies?

You can mix all chemical solutions yourself with no special order-only formulas.

4.  How difficult is the set-up of the Challenge Environmental instrument?

Set-up is very simple with no grease required to seal the reaction vessels; this also eliminates the need for organic solvents for cleanup.

5.  Why is stirring rate important in a respirometer?

Stirring rate is important to achieve proper oxygen transfer.  Most respirometers experience oxygen transfer limitations because of slower mixing capabilities. Because of its excellent stirring capabilities, the Challenge Environmental respirometer can measure oxygen transfer rates in excess of 500 mg/L-hr.

6.   What size of reactors can I use?

Reaction vessels can range from 50 mL to 2 L, and a mix of sizes can be used simultaneously.

7.  Do I need a special computer, or a board to install into my computer?

The Challenge Environmental system uses a regular computer, laptop or desktop, with no need to add a special board. The systems software is Windows™ based, and can run with Windows™ 95, 98, ME, NT, 2000, or XP.

8.  Is the Challenge Environmental respirometer an aerobic respirometer only?

The Challenge Environmental respirometer can be used in both aerobic and anaerobic modes.

9.  What supplies or hardware are required for operation in the anaerobic mode?

None. The system is capable of being operated in the anaerobic mode without requiring purchase of additional supplies or hardware.