!%Thermo Electron Corp.%! has launched an interactive online tool that enables scientists to build a Nicolet 6700 Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer to their specific application requirements prior to purchasing. Designed for researchers in the pharmaceutical, chemical, quality control, forensics and academic sectors, the system enables users to rapidly interchange software options, a variety of parts, including internal spectrometer components, and accessories such as IR, Raman and attenuated total reflectance microscopes. Approximately 80% of the instrument specification can be completed online. The upgradable spectrometer is designed to facilitate sample handling and to increase throughput.