Automatic refractometers are used in the food and beverage industry, in chemistry, pharmacy and many other branches for measurements of refractive index (nD) or from refractive index derived concentrations. Refractive index measurements are fast, non destructive and require a small volume of sample only. No extensive sample preparations are necessary. The latest generation of ABBEMAT high performance refractometers from the German manufacturer Dr. Kernchen GmbH set new standards regarding accuracy and versatility. Due to modern data processing and innovative optical design a resolution of 1*10-6 nD is achieved. The measuring ranges are 1.32 to 1.56 nD (HP model) respectively 1.30 to 1.72 nD (WR model), allowing refractive index measurements of organic solvents, perfumes or aromas. Within an interval of 10-70°C an internal Peltier-thermostate is adjusting the temperature of the measuring prism at an accuracy of ±0.03°C, so that no additional external thermo circulator is required. The stability of the temperature adjustment is ±0.002°C. The measuring unit is housed in a water-proof enclosure made of stainless steel containing the optics and the electronics of the instrument. Its small size saves valuable bench space in the laboratory. A personal computer or a handheld PC is used as an intelligent terminal offering easy operation combined with best performance. From a continuously growing number of scales the required scale can be selected or be defined by the user himself. An user management, several measuring modes, easy calibration possibilities as well as GLP conform data recording round up the features of the ABBEMAT. Different types of sample cells are offered allowing the adaptation of the instrument to every task in the laboratory.