Cambridge scientists build a $10 optical spectrometer chip

Researchers at the University of Cambridge and startup GlitterinTech have developed a centimeter-scale optical spectrometer costing about $10. Built on a silicon nitride photonic platform, it operates across 1200–1700 nm and takes measurements in under a second, including noninvasive glucose tracking.

• The spectrometer costs about $10 and measures a few centimeters across
• It covers 1200–1700 nm and takes readings in under a second
• Concentration accuracy in solutions is around 0.01%
• It operates reliably from -20°C to 80°C