Latest Developments for the XtaLAB Synergy-S Single Crystal Diffractometer

The XtaLAB Synergy-S is the workhorse of crystallographers, with many such systems installed across Australia. The Synergy-S has proven a popular choice due to a combination of its performance, price and reliability. This choice was reinforced with a host of upgrade options such as HyPix HPC detectors and ever evolving CrysAlisPro software that is used for operation and analysis, and also drives the XtaLAB Synergy-ED electron diffractometer.

Rigaku oxford diffraction XtaLAB Synergy-S XRD

Rigaku have recently introduced a host of upgrades to the XtaLAB Synergy-S to further increase its performance and efficiency and ensure it remains the clear choice for crystallographers, by decreasing experimental setup times and run times. These include:

  1. New PhotonJetMAX-S – High performance microfocus sealed tube X-ray source
  2. New UG3 Universal Goniometer – 3rd generation universal goniometer
  3. New IGH3 Goniometer Head – Motorised goniometer head

PhotonJetMAX-S

When it comes to X-ray analysis, maximising the number of photons hitting the detector is of paramount importance. Compared to its predecessor, the PhotonJetMAX-S provides more than double the diffracted intensity using the same microfocus sealed tube technology. The secret lies in the optic technology developed by Rigaku Innovative Technologies, which allows you to successfully analyse smaller crystals and/or more samples.

Rigaku PhotonJetMAX-S microfocus sealed tube X-ray source

Average of 2.6x more intensity at the detector observed from 6 comparison experiments.

Using the same X-ray tube technology means that while you are getting more than double the flux, the running costs and replacement costs are as low as before. The PhotonJetMAX-s also achieves peak performance at just 50W. This makes it the most energy efficient, high-performance microfocus sealed tube system available.

Furthermore, using a closed circuit, water-to-air cooling system, the system can control the precise temperature of the source ensuring consistent/stable X-ray flux and extended reliability. The cooling system also removed heat from the cabinet, keeping the sample temperature more constant and eliminating air turbulence.

The PhotonJetMAX-S is available in copper and molybdenum variants.

UG3 Universal Goniometer

Rigaku universal goniometer UG3

The UG3 is Rigaku’s 3rd generation universal goniometer designed for the XtaLAB Synergy diffractometers. Designed for the modern crystallographer, it offers 25% faster speed compared to its predecessor and is the ideal partner for brighter X-ray sources and faster detectors. The increased speed comes with no sacrifice in precision, with stepper motors providing exceptional accuracy and reproducible positioning.

The UG3 also comes with state-of-the-art position sensors so it always knows where it is, even after a power outage. Add to this a redesigned detector axis and optimised motor housing, which allows for wider, more symmetrical scans which ensure the most efficient collection of data.

IGH3 Intelligent Goniometer Head

IGH3 intelligent goniometer head Rigaku

IGH3 supports hands-free sample centering with modes including X-ray signal optimization, AI-powered optical sample recognition, or point-and-click methods—all fully software controlled.  

Designed specifically to work with the UG3, The IGH3 motorised goniometer head features a cable-free design for the first time facilitating a safer, more compact operation. It also features a more compact profile further facilitating wider scans and more efficient data collection. Furthermore, the tight integration with the UG3 goniometer reduce collision risks, while offering wider scanning angles and higher data collection efficiencies.

Rigaku Oxford Diffraction ROD Intelligent Goniometer Head IGH3 for single crystal XRD