Across chemistry and materials science labs, EPR spectrometers have powered research for decades. But as experimental needs advance, many facilities are facing the same question: When is it time to modernize your EPR system?

Instead of costly full replacements, more labs are turning to targeted modernization to bring aging EPR equipment up to current research standards while maximizing existing hardware investment.

 

The Hidden Cost of Outdated EPR Instruments

Many EPR spectrometers installed in the 1990s or early 2000s still function for basic CW measurements. However, as field stability weakens, control electronics degrade, and cryogenic components age, research capabilities gradually decline.

A materials group in Germany recently struggled to maintain pulse stability on their 20-year-old system while expanding into low-temperature spin dynamics. With spare parts becoming scarce, their system downtime was increasing.

Similar challenges appear in US chemistry departments, where outdated control software makes EPR training unnecessarily complex for graduate students. Some labs operate systems that only a few technicians can run reliably.

 

What EPR Modernization Really Delivers

Modernizing an EPR system allows labs to extend instrument lifetime and add advanced functionality significantly. Instead of replacing entire magnets or RF hardware, EPR modernization and upgrades focus on:

 - Digital control electronics with improved field precision

 - Pulse EPR capability with modern phase coherence and timing resolution

 - Seamless integration of nitrogen and helium cryostat systems for variable temperature studies

 - Fully digital software interfaces that simplify both teaching and advanced research

This approach preserves valuable core components while dramatically expanding experimental capability.

 

Real-World Case: Advanced Materials Research Enabled by EPR Modernization

At a leading national laboratory in China, a research team studying spin defects and paramagnetic centers encountered serious limitations with their legacy EPR system. Their older EPR spectrometer lacked the phase stability and pulse flexibility required for precise coherence and relaxation measurements. After a full digital control and pulse module upgrade delivered by CIQTEK, the lab successfully expanded into advanced pulse EPR experiments while preserving its existing hardware setup. 

Similar modernization projects have been successfully completed at several European research institutes, supporting new work in catalysis, spintronics, and materials characterization.

 

Why CIQTEK Modernization and Upgrade Is Gaining Momentum Worldwide

Full EPR system replacement can be financially challenging and logistically disruptive. CIQTEK EPR modernization services offer a highly cost-effective alternative by:

 - Extending instrument life by 10 years or more

 - Providing cutting-edge pulse and VT functionality

 - Lowering training barriers with intuitive, modern software

 - Minimizing lab downtime during transition

Importantly, CIQTEK supports EPR modernization and upgrade services with comprehensive local service support worldwide, complemented by expert application training and rapid remote diagnostics to minimize research interruptions.

 

CIQTEK EPR Modernization: Upgrade Smarter, Not Harder

Whether your lab needs:

 - Full digital control upgrades

 - Pulse EPR expansion modules

 - Variable temperature system integration

 - Modern teaching software platforms

CIQTEK delivers proven EPR modernization and upgrade solutions already operating in labs worldwide.

 

If your existing EPR system is limiting your research, CIQTEK EPR modernization can unlock new capabilities while protecting your hardware investment.

>> Learn more or schedule a technical consultation now.

Recently, the top international academic journal "Science" published a research paper titled "Fatigue of Li metal anode in solid-state batteries" by Professor Wei Luo from Tongji University, along with Professor Yunhui Huang from Huazhong University of Science and Technology and other collaborators.

 

This study revealed for the first time the fatigue failure phenomenon of the lithium metal anode in solid-state batteries, unveiled a new fatigue failure mechanism, and proposed novel strategies to inhibit fatigue failure and enhance the performance of solid-state batteries.

 

In this research, the team utilized the Tungsten Filament SEM from CIQTEK for in-situ SEM fatigue testing and obtained excellent test results.

 

Link to the original paper:

https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adq6807

 

Recently, the first author of this paper, Professor Bo Chen from Tongji University, was invited to visit CIQTEK and granted an interview with us.

 

Professor Bo Chen introduces: "Our research group mainly focuses on two aspects, one being imaging with synchrotron X-rays, and the other involving electron microscopy imaging, as with CIQTEK. The work of our entire research group revolves around the nano- and micro-structures of materials, particularly in the three-dimensional nano- and micro-structures of materials. Therefore, our entire research group can be referred to as the materials nano- and micro-structure research group."

 

Regarding the paper recently published in "Science," Professor Bo Chen stated: "The paper seized upon a phenomenon that hadn't been extensively considered before, which is the fatigue of lithium metal. Previously, everyone believed that it was electrochemical fatigue generated during charging and discharging processes, but in reality, it also exhibits mechanical fatigue during these processes."

 

"The primary discovery of this research is that lithium exhibits not only electrochemical fatigue during charging and discharging but also mechanical fatigue manifested during these processes, which combined are the main causes of destruction in the lithium metal of solid-state batteries. The paper further suggests that by alloying lithium metal to enhance its physical properties, the lifespan of solid-state batteries can be improved. This is a groundbreaking finding and quite intriguing."

 

When designing experiments, the team observed both types of fatigue by installing fatigue devices on the electron microscope. Since the research group only had one electron microscope, in order to comprehensively observe, they used an in-situ tensile stage developed by Professor Jixue Li at Hangzhou Yuanwei Technology Company. Professor Bo Chen said, "With the help of Professor Li, we jointly created a fatigue tensile-testing device. The mechanical fatigue experiment of lithium metal was conducted by Professor Li using the electron microscope from CIQTEK for in-situ tensile testing."

 

When asked about his views on CIQTEK Electron Microscopes, Professor Bo Chen was very candid and sincere: "For us, our only requirement is that the equipment must perform well."

 

As a research scientist who enjoys hands-on exploration, Professor Bo Chen also shared some personal insights on using CIQTEK instruments. He mentioned that when the instrument offers both quality and cost-effectiveness, it greatly enhances the interest of researchers in tinkering with the machine, reduces the sense of alienation towards expensive instruments, and encourages researchers to utilize the machine more effectively, thereby unleashing more research creativity.

 

Ending with Professor Bo Chen's words, CIQTEK will continue to stick to the slogan： Successful Customers, Successful Companions！

Choosing the right EPR spectrometer for university labs can significantly impact how your team teaches, researches, and collaborates. Whether you're building a new EPR spectroscopy facility or upgrading an aging setup, one key question often comes first: benchtop EPR or full-size EPR?

Both options offer unique strengths, and your decision should depend on factors such as space, research priorities, budget, and the expected user experience. Across Europe, lab choices are shaping a new generation of academic EPR spectroscopy.

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Teaching Labs: Why a Benchtop EPR System is Often the Smarter Choice

For chemistry departments and physics teaching labs, especially those focused on undergraduate or master's-level instruction, a full-size spectrometer can be excessive in terms of size, cost, and complexity. More and more institutions are turning to benchtop EPR systems that prioritize accessibility, affordability, and ease of use.

At the National University of Singapore (NUS), CIQTEK Benchtop EPR spectrometer has been integrated into their teaching and demonstration platform for students in the Department of Chemistry. According to faculty feedback, the system enables students to gain hands-on experience with real electron paramagnetic resonance techniques in a compact, classroom-friendly setup. With its small footprint, intuitive software, and reliable performance, it bridges the gap between theoretical instruction and real-world application.

For labs seeking the best benchtop EPR for university education, CIQTEK’s EPR solution stands out with true X-band performance, minimal maintenance needs, and seamless integration into existing teaching modules.

 

 

CIQTEK Benchtop EPR200M Spectrometer at the Universiteit Utrecht, Netherlands

 

Research Labs: Why Full-Size EPR Still Matters for Advanced Science

For advanced research in quantum materials, molecular magnetism, or X-band pulse EPR, the flexibility and sensitivity of a full-size EPR spectrometer remain crucial. These systems offer broader modulation capabilities, stronger field homogeneity, and support for features like variable temperature EPR spectroscopy.

In 2024, a leading UK materials lab upgraded to a CIQTEK CW EPR spectrometer with integrated VT control, specifically to explore spin dynamics in transition metal complexes. The built-in support for nitrogen and helium cryostats allowed the group to run low-temperature experiments (down to 4 K) without external cooling equipment or extended tuning time.

Meanwhile, a German spin physics group working on magnetic nanoparticles adopted a CIQTEK pulse EPR system. Researchers highlighted its clean echo-detected response and its easy automation, ideal for labs needing repeatable and high-throughput EPR experiments.

If your academic team conducts electron paramagnetic resonance at variable temperatures or uses pulse sequences, a full-size model may be a better long-term investment.

Budget, Space, and Support: What Often Decides the Winner

For many universities, space constraints and budget ceilings make benchtop models attractive. A compact EPR spectrometer helps reduce installation costs and simplifies user training. But it’s not just about equipment, it’s also about support.

CIQTEK has built a strong reputation across Europe for offering fast-response remote diagnostics, local service teams, and multiple demo centers where customers can test instruments before purchase. A lab in Romania that previously struggled with service delays from another vendor saw a dramatic improvement after switching to a CIQTEK EPR system, citing quick turnaround for both questions and maintenance.

 

CIQTEK EPR Solutions: Designed for Real University Labs

Whether you're a teaching lab looking for an affordable benchtop EPR system or a research group needing X-band pulse EPR with low-temperature cryogenic options, CIQTEK provides tools designed with academic users in mind:

• - Benchtop EPR: Desktop-sized, user-friendly, reliable. Ideal for chemistry and biology teaching labs.
• - CW EPR with VT: Built-in support for cryostats, smooth control from 4 K to 300 K. No extra setup needed.
• - Pulse EPR systems: High SNR, automated sequences, ready for advanced materials research.
• If your university is exploring the best EPR spectroscopy equipment for 2025, take a closer look at CIQTEK’s growing presence in labs across the U.S., UK, Germany, France, Romania, Netherlands, and beyond.
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Learn more or request a live demo at https://www.ciqtekglobal.com

 

When outfitting a classroom or school district with the latest technology, a 32 ports USB-C iPad Charging Cabinet is an excellent solution for managing multiple devices efficiently. These USB-C tablets charging cabinets are designed to hold and charge up to 32 tablets simultaneously, providing a tidy, organized way to keep educational devices ready for use. The portability of a Portable School Charging Cart Station makes it ideal for K-12 environments, allowing teachers to easily move and connect devices between classrooms or different locations within the school.

A key feature to look for is a 700W USB-C PD Charging cabinet that supports fast and efficient charging. The Fast-Charging USB-C cabinet ensures that devices are powered up quickly, minimizing downtime and maximizing classroom productivity. For schools aiming to streamline their workspace solutions, these best devices for Workspace Solutions include models that are both compact and powerful, capable of handling a large number of tablets with ease.

Choosing a 700W USB-C charging cabinet is a good choice for K-12 Education tablets because of its ability to provide reliable, high-speed power without overheating or power loss. The tablets charging cabinet often features multiple ports and smart power distribution, allowing every device to charge safely and efficiently. This makes them suitable not just for current needs but also scalable for future school expansions or new device integrations.

For educators seeking a dependable, efficient way to manage their technology, investing in a Portable School Charging Cart Station with 32 ports USB-C support and robust power capabilities is essential. Whether for daily classroom activities or shared lab environments, these USB-C cabinets offer the perfect combination of portability, speed, and capacity to meet the demands of modern K-12 education. They truly stand out as the best devices for workspace solutions that keep students and teachers connected and ready to learn.

Powering robotic devices efficiently and reliably requires more than just a standard charger. The ideal power solution must be versatile, fast, and adaptable to different environments and device requirements. Our latest USB-C PD 3.1 charger offers a comprehensive answer, supporting a wide range of voltages and currents. With options like DC5V/9V/12V/15V/3A, 20V/28V/5A, 36V/3.89A, and 48V/2.92A, it ensures compatible, fast, and safe charging for diverse robotic applications. Additionally, support for PD 3.1 PPS adjustable from 3.3V to 21V up to 5A means that different devices can be charged efficiently under one power platform, reducing the need for multiple chargers.

 

When choosing a power solution for robotic systems, stability, efficiency, and safety are key. That’s why our custom-designed ROBOT charger is your best choice. It’s engineered specifically for the ROBOT series, providing high efficiency and stable performance even during intensive operations. This ensures your robots operate smoothly, with reduced downtime due to power issues, and longer device lifespans.

Traveling or operating in various regions? No problem. Our charger is equipped with multiple international plugs—US, Australian, European, and UK standards—making it adaptable worldwide. Supporting a universal voltage input of 100V to 240V, it’s the perfect companion for global deployment. The built-in high-quality USB-C cable adds extra convenience, eliminating the need to carry separate cables and making on-the-go charging effortless.

 

Our innovative IPA (Intelligent Power Adjustment) technology takes smart charging to the next level. It detects the connected device and automatically adjusts output parameters for maximum efficiency, safety, and device longevity. Compact yet powerful, delivering up to 140W, this charger is designed for portability and high performance. Whether in a factory, lab, or on a trip, it’s the smart, reliable power solution your robots deserve.

In 2025, wearable technology has evolved into an ecosystem of advanced, compact, and highly capable devices—most notably, smartwatches. These devices have transcended basic fitness tracking to become multifunctional companions that integrate health monitoring, communication, navigation, and contactless payment into a single wrist-worn form.

 

The Era of Multi-functional Smartwatches

Today’s smartwatches are expected to perform a wide range of tasks with precision and speed. Features such as real-time ECG monitoring, sleep tracking powered by machine learning, voice assistants, and seamless smartphone integration have become standard. This rise in functionality places a significant demand on the internal architecture of these devices.

 

A major engineering challenge lies in balancing functionality with form factor. With consumers demanding thinner, lighter wearables, manufacturers are pressed to miniaturize components without sacrificing performance. The drive for compact, multifunctional modules requires innovation not only in software but also in the foundational hardware.

 

Power Efficiency and Battery Life

Battery life remains a critical benchmark for user satisfaction. While some models tout multi-day performance, the integration of high-resolution displays and continuous sensor operation often compromises energy consumption. Consequently, every hardware component must be power-optimized.

 

For instance, Temperature Compensated Crystal Oscillators (TCXOs) have become essential in modern smartwatch design. These oscillators ensure precise frequency control even under fluctuating temperatures—crucial for GPS synchronization, Bluetooth connectivity, and heart rate sensor timing. Their low power consumption directly supports extended battery life without sacrificing signal stability.

 

Structural Constraints and Compact Design

The demand for a sleeker form factor has pushed the industry toward highly integrated designs. Flexible PCBs, stacked component layouts, and multi-functional chips are now common. As available space shrinks, the role of miniature crystal oscillators becomes increasingly vital. These components must maintain performance integrity while occupying minimal board area.

 

Products such as the SMD2016 crystal oscillator, which measures 2.0x1.6 mm and is housed in a metal package, are designed for next-generation wearable electronics. Despite their reduced size, they are still able to provide stable frequency performance, which is critical for Bluetooth and sensor timing. The use of non-ceramic materials enhances thermal conductivity and mechanical resilience, ensuring reliable operation in compact, high-density smartwatch layouts.
 

Reliability in Continuous Monitoring

Smartwatches now support continuous monitoring of health data, including SpO2, heart variability, and skin temperature. This uninterrupted function demands a consistent and reliable clock source, unaffected by movement or external interference.

 

Quartz-based frequency components are preferred for their excellent phase noise characteristics and long-term stability. These features are especially important when devices operate 24/7, under both indoor and outdoor conditions. Some wearable designs now incorporate low-jitter VCXOs to support real-time audio signal processing for on-wrist calls and alerts.

 

The Role of Frequency Components in 2025 Wearables

Wearable tech relies on seamless communication—Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, LTE, and even ultra-wideband (UWB). The foundation for all these wireless technologies lies in stable timing and frequency references. As wireless protocols advance, the importance of precise frequency control grows.

 

For example, OCXOs (Oven Controlled Crystal Oscillators), although traditionally used in larger equipment, are seeing innovations in micro-packaged variants for advanced wearables used in military or industrial applications. These components guarantee ultra-high stability required for mission-critical communications.

 

Wearable technology in 2025 is a fusion of compact design, expanded functionality, and extended endurance. To achieve this, designers are increasingly reliant on precision components that balance performance and efficiency. Frequency control elements like TCXOs, VCXOs, and miniature SMD oscillators play a silent but critical role in meeting the technological demands of next-generation wearables. As innovation continues, the sophistication of these tiny components will only become more central to the evolution of wearable devices.If you have more product inquiries, please contact us at ivy@jghcrystal.com

 

In 2025, selecting the best EPR spectrometer for academic labs isn’t just about specs on paper. It’s about practical performance, usability, and long-term support. Across Europe, from chemistry departments in France to physics labs in Germany, researchers are rethinking their approach to Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) spectroscopy.

Whether the goal is to teach undergraduates the fundamentals of radical chemistry or to perform advanced X-band pulse EPR experiments in low-temperature environments, today's labs need instruments that are compact, affordable, and research-ready. So, what are Europe’s labs choosing?

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1. Benchtop EPR: Making Teaching Labs Smarter and Simpler

Not every lab needs a full-scale floor-standing spectrometer. For teaching and routine experiments, benchtop EPR systems are rapidly becoming the default. Their appeal lies in ease of use, portability, and strong baseline performance.

At the Universiteit Utrecht, for instance, a CIQTEK benchtop EPR spectrometer EPR200M was recently installed. The system is compact enough to fit on a standard bench and comes with intuitive software that new users can operate within an hour. Professors there reported reliable detection of short-lived radicals in lab experiments, without the learning curve typically associated with EPR.

These compact EPR spectrometers strike the perfect balance for chemistry and materials science teaching labs, making high-quality EPR spectroscopy more accessible than ever.

 

2. CW EPR with Variable Temperature: A Must for Research Flexibility

For labs focusing on spin dynamics, catalytic mechanisms, or materials, cryogenic measurements are essential. Many researchers in Germany and France are now demanding CW EPR spectrometers with reliable variable temperature (VT) capabilities, preferably with plug-and-play usability.

CIQTEK’s CW EPR system, designed for X-band EPR spectroscopy, includes built-in support for nitrogen and helium-based VT experiments using cryostats. A recent installation at a German materials science institute confirmed its smooth temperature cycling, with stable signals even at temperatures as low as 10 K. The system eliminates the need for complex manual tuning, making it easier for academic groups with rotating users or tight schedules.

If you need low-temperature EPR spectroscopy without needing a cryogenics specialist on your team, this kind of integration makes all the difference.

3. Balancing Budget and Ambition: Affordable EPR Spectrometers for Universities

Let’s face it: even the best labs face budget constraints. But cost shouldn’t mean compromise. Universities across the UK, especially those outside of the golden triangle, are actively seeking affordable EPR instruments that deliver serious scientific value.

In one standout case, a France-based spin chemistry group was evaluating options for a pulse EPR system. Traditional vendors quoted high prices and long delivery times. CIQTEK offered a complete Pulse EPR solution with echo-detected and relaxation measurements, along with full software automation, at significantly lower cost.

After on-site testing, the team praised the signal-to-noise ratio, the modern interface, and the rapid support during commissioning. The system is now in daily use, generating data for upcoming publications.

 

4. Support That Actually Supports You

Instrument specs are important, but for many labs, what happens after delivery is what defines long-term satisfaction. Delays in support or a lack of local expertise are still common pain points.

In 2024, a lab in Romania reported slow response times from their legacy vendor. After switching to a CIQTEK EPR system, the team noted faster communication, efficient remote diagnostics, and access to EU-based demo centers. This helped them reduce downtime during the semester, critical for meeting academic schedules and student training goals.

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Why More European Labs Are Switching to CIQTEK EPR Systems

Benchtop EPR: Compact, portable, ideal for teaching and starter labs.

CW EPR with VT: Reliable cryogenic operation for advanced research.

Pulse EPR: High performance at a fraction of the traditional cost.

Responsive Support: Local demos and remote assistance across Europe.

If you're evaluating options for an EPR spectrometer in 2025, especially for European academic labs, CIQTEK offers a powerful combination of innovation, user-friendly design, and cost-efficiency—already trusted by institutions across the UK, Germany, Romania, and beyond.

 

>> Explore CIQTEK’s full range of EPR systems or contact us to schedule a demo near you.

CR123A vs AA Batteries in Security Sensors – What You Need to Know

 

Not sure whether to use CR123A or AA batteries in your security sensors? It depends on your system’s power demands, space constraints, and expected battery life.

 

CR123A Batteries – Compact Power

 

Higher voltage (3V) means better performance in wireless motion detectors.

 

Longer shelf life – up to 10 years, perfect for long-term deployments.

 

Lithium-based chemistry – stable even in extreme heat or cold.

 

AA Batteries – Cost-Effective and Accessible

 

Ideal for low-power keypads and remotes.

 

Easy to find and replace, but lower energy density.

 

May require more frequent replacements in wireless sensors.

 

Which Should You Use?

 

Use CR123A for critical wireless PIR sensors, glass break detectors, and outdoor modules.

 

AA may be sufficient for non-critical devices.

 

Bonus: Ask your supplier if the CR123A batteries they offer are UL or IEC certified for security system use.

You’ve invested in top-tier batteries for your security system. But are you storing them correctly?

Storage Mistakes to Avoid

High humidity: Can corrode battery terminals and packaging.

Direct sunlight or heat: Shortens shelf life and increases self-discharge.

Mixing old and new stock: Leads to performance inconsistency in the field.

Best Practices for Battery Storage

Keep batteries in cool, dry environments (15–25°C).

Store in original packaging to prevent accidental discharge.

Use a first-in, first-out (FIFO) approach to inventory management.

Shelf Life Expectations

CR2032 Batteries & CR123A Batteries: 8–10 years

Alkaline 9V / AA / AAA: 3–5 years depending on storage conditions

Good battery storage = reliable system performance when it matters most.

When it comes to security, a $0.10 savings per battery isn't worth the risk. Low-cost, unbranded alkaline batteries often lead to unreliable system performance and even damage to sensitive electronics.

The Risks of Using Cheap Batteries

Shorter lifespan – frequent replacement increases maintenance cost.

Voltage inconsistency – can trigger false alarms or device shutdown.

Leakage – damages circuit boards in control panels or sensor housings.

What to Look For in a Reliable Battery

Stable discharge curve – essential for alarm control panels.

Industrial-grade manufacturing – tighter quality control.

Recognized certifications – CE, UL, REACH, IEC standards.

Recommended Models

AA/AAA batteries for control panels and remotes.

CR123A/9V batteries for wireless detectors and backup circuits.

Invest in batteries that match the reliability of your security system.