Spatially scanned optical reader system and method for using same

An optical reader system comprising:

• a light source that outputs an optical beam which is scanned across a biosensor;
• a detector that collects the scanned optical beam which is reflected from the biosensor;
• a processor that records raw data from the collected optical beam which is used to determine whether or not a biomolecular event occurred on a surface of said biosensor;
• and
• wherein the biosensor remains stationary while a single fiber/lens associated with the light source and the detector is moved such that the optical beam can be scanned across the biosensor.

A system comprising:

• a biosensor;
• and
• an optical reader system which includes:
• a light source that outputs a first optical beam which is smaller than the biosensor and is scanned across the biosensor;
• a detector that collects a second optical beam reflected from the biosensor while the first optical beam is being scanned across the biosensor;
• and
• a processor that processes the collected second optical beam to obtain raw spectral/angular data that is a function of a position on the biosensor;
• and
• said biosensor has at least one cut located within a diffraction grating formed therein which enables one to measure a position of said biosensor relative to said optical reader system.