Or Exploring the myths of buying
used equipment

Myth #1. Old equipment is not reliable.
Instruments such as analytical X ray require great mechanical
stability in order to achieve accurate, reproducible results.
The mechanical components of X ray diffractometers and spectrometers are made much stronger, larger, and more
precise than the sample weight (usually only a few grams or ounces) requires. It is therefore unusual to find even a heavily used instrument showing signs of wear. Occasionally some components are corroded by sample emissions but these are contained in the sample changer area and can be replaced, repaired, or replated if necessary.

Myth #2. The "old" electronics are unreliable.
In the 1960's and early 1970's, when automated analytical X ray was being developed, the electronic components controlling them were not particularly sophisticated. Due to breakthroughs in electronic technology, instruments manufactured from the mid 1970's were constructed incorporating much more reliable, inexpensive, and readily available components such as TTL logic CMOS logic and transistors, etc. enhancing stability, precision, and reliablity. Complete reconditioned systems are now available for sale or as sources of any part, should the need arise. The defective part can then be repaired, tested, and returned to service.

Myth #3. The software is obsolete.
One area which has been consistantly upgraded by manufacturers, is software. While the latest software upgrades
for older instruments are available from the manufacturer, they
are usually cost prohibitive. There are, however, other sources
for software upgrades. In the area of X ray diffraction, several
companies offer software as good as, or better than, any
diffraction software currently available from the original equipment manufacturer (references are available upon request).
In spectrometry, software is available which meets the needs of
most users, but a Windows version is being evaluated. Call for an update.