FAQs
FAQs
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
LightLab uses the same technique as a cannabis laboratory – High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). This analytical technique separates cannabinoids in the sample before quantification, resulting in high confidence and accuracy. Once the cannabinoids are separated, multi-wavelength UV spectroscopy is used to quantify the amount of each cannabinoid. Click here to learn more about the science and technology behind LightLab portable potency analyzers.
Our patented detection system borrows technology from the Mars rover making LightLab “Mars Technology for Marijuana”.
LightLab 3 is capable of reporting up to 20 analytes – 19 cannabinoids plus semi-quantitative terpenes.
LightLab’s standard configuration reports data for the seven cannabinoids most frequently associated with quality control, product value and manufacturing processes. Standard cannabinoids include:
Δ9THC (Delta 9 Tetrahydrocannabinol)
THC-A (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid)
CBD (Cannabidiol)
CBD-A (Cannabidiolic Acid)
CBN (Cannabinol)
CBG (Cannabigerol)
CBG-A (Cannabigeroli2c Acid)
The Minors Module measures Δ8-THC, CBN-A (Cannabinolic Acid), CBC-A (Cannabichromenic Acid), CBC (Cannabichromenic), Δ10-THC, THCV and THCV-A.
The Converted Cannabinoids Module measures Δ9-THC-O Acetate, Δ8-THC-O Acetate, Δ9-THCP, Δ8-THCP and (±)-9β-hydroxy Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC).
The Terpenes Module analyzes the richness of the sample’s terpene content.
Ten minutes and thirty seconds. It takes two minutes to zero the instrument, and eight minutes and thirty seconds to analyze the sample.
LightLab is easy to use. Designed with the non-technical user in mind, anyone on your team can prep samples and run tests with minimal training. LightLab provides step-by-step instructions on-screen that guide users through sample preparation and analysis of all sample types. In addition, we offer an illustrated User’s Guide, as well as instructional videos covering the entire process.
It depends on what you are measuring. Just 300mg are required for cured cannabis flower and concentrates, 1g is required for hemp. Infused products vary from 100mg to 5g depending on the sample type. You will see on-screen sample prep instructions to guide you through the process.
Most products that contain cannabinoids can be tested for potency levels on a LightLab analyzer. Products that can be measured include cannabis flower (adult-use cannabis or hemp), concentrates, distillates, young plants, cured flower, tinctures and oil, raffinate (previously extracted material) and infused products including beverages and edibles.
Additionally, LightLab 3 Psychedelics Analyzer and LightLab 3 PsyCanna Analyzer can measure the potency of psilocybin, psilocin, and AcO-DMT in psychedelic mushrooms and mushroom-infused products.
Results from the current test as well as previous tests will appear on-screen on your LightLab 3. Extended data files, which include operator information and user notes, may be downloaded as a CSV file, or imported into a printable PDF report. You may also generate a Certificate of Analysis and share your results via text and email directly from the LightLab 3. For full details visit see Access & Share Test Results.
LightLab uses similar technology to labs, and thus reports results with similar accuracy to a well-operated lab. The accuracy of LightLab depends upon the sample type being analyzed. Typical results will fall within 2% of a lab result for flower and 3% for concentrates. With the optional Hemp Compliance Module, Δ9THC and THC-A can be measured within 0.05%. Note this does not include the variation in sample (no two flowers are exactly identical) or errors in sample preparation by the laboratory or LightLab operator.
LightLab uses similar technology to labs, and thus reports results with similar accuracy to a well-operated lab. Typical results will fall within 2% of a lab result for flower and 3% for concentrates. LightLab repeatability is +/-1%. Note this does not include the variation in sample (no two buds are exactly identical) or errors in sample preparation by the laboratory or LightLab operator.
In most states, you cannot use internally generated certificates though that is not the case in some geographies. Check with your regulatory agency’s requirements to ensure compliance with your local requirements. Typically, a Certificate of Analysis must be provided by a third-party, state-accredited laboratory. LightLab can be used for all internal, quality control testing so that only the final sample is sent to the lab, thus reducing the time and cost of lab testing.
We release updates regularly. Minor bug fixes are made available as soon as they are tested and improved.
The United States and Canada. Contact us if you are outside these geographies and our team may be able to assist you.
LightLab comes to you fully calibrated and ready to run. LightLab should be calibrated every 1000 samples or every 12 months, whichever comes first. Learn more about calibration and extended warranty options.
The Orange Photonics team is here to support you! Call us at (603) 573-9212 or email: support@orangephotonics.com. Alternatively, you can visit our contact us page for additional options. You will typically receive a reply within one business day of your inquiry.