CETAC ASX-260 Operator's Manual
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CETAC ASX-260 Operator's Manual

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ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator's
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  • Page 1 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual...
  • Page 2 Operation of the CETAC unit inside a laboratory fume hood is contra-indicated and will void the warranty. Any attempt to repair or alter any CETAC unit by anyone other than by CETAC authorized personnel or agents will void this warranty. If any non-CETAC component is installed in the CETAC manufactured unit without the approval of CETAC, the warranty will be voided.
  • Page 3 Any returned product must be accompanied by a return authorization number. The expense of returning the unit to CETAC for service will be paid by the buyer. The status of any product returned later than thirty (30) days after issuance of a return authorization number will be subject to review.
  • Page 4 Service and Support if there is any owner or authorized agent is prohibited. question doubt relative Requests for additional copies of this, or decontamination requirements. any other CETAC publication, can be filled contacting authorized CAUTION and WARNING statements, as distributor or applied...
  • Page 5 Furthermore, never operate instrument without first reading and understanding the ASX-260 Operator’s Manual and ensuring that it is operated safely and properly. ORIGINAL PACKAGING Retain original factory packaging for moves and factory return shipments.
  • Page 6 The FCC requires the user to be notified that any changes or modifications made to this device that are not expressly approved by CETAC may void the user's authority to operate the equipment. CABLES Connections to this device must be made...
  • Page 7 To reduce the risk of fire hazard and electrical shock, do not expose the unit to rain or humidity. To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. All maintenance is to be performed by an Authorized CETAC Service Provider. CAUTION Protection provided by the equipment may be impaired if the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer.
  • Page 8 Operator’s Manual Addendum Notices and Compliance Declarations PANNEAU NE DOIT ÊTRE ENLEVE QUE PAR UN RÉPARATEUR QUALIFIÉ. AVERTISSEMENT POUR UNE PROTECTION CONTINUÉ CONTRE LES RISQUES D’INCENDIE, REMPLACER UNIQUEMENT PAR DES FUSIBLES DE MÊME TYPE ET AMPÈRAGE. AVERTISSEMENT TOUT CONTACT AVEC LES HAUTES TENSIONS PEUT ENTRAINER LA MORT OU DES BLESSURES SÉVÈRES.
  • Page 9 WARNING If the auto sampler is used in a manner not specified by CETAC Technologies, the protection provided the equipment may be WARNING The power switch on the rear panel is not the mains disconnect.
  • Page 10 Operator’s Manual Addendum Notices and Compliance Declarations CAUTION The CAUTION notice denotes a hazard. It calls attention to a procedure, practice, or the like, that, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in personal injury. Do not proceed beyond a CAUTION notice until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.
  • Page 11 NOTE: For instructions on how to return end-of-life   equipment, producer-supplied electrical accessories, or auxiliary items for proper disposal please contact the supplier or importer. In the event a supplier cannot be reached, contact CETAC Technologies customer service department at 1 (800) 369 2822. AD-6...
  • Page 12 Contents...

  • Page 13: Table Of Contents

    Warnings Where to Go for More Information 1 Introduction 1–2 Auto Sampler Standard Components 1–2 Optional Accessories 1–6 2 Preparing for Installation 2–2 Choosing a Location 2–2 Space Requirements 2–2 Water Requirements 2–2 Power Requirements 2–3 Unpacking the ASX-260 2–4...
  • Page 14 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Contents 3 Installing the Auto Sampler 3–2 Mounting the Z-Drive Assembly 3–3 Attaching the Z-drive Assembly to the Auto Sampler Arm 3–4 Attaching the Z-drive Mounting Blocks 3–4 Installing the Sample Probe 3–6 Setting the Z-Axis Travel 3–7...
  • Page 15 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Contents Checking the Auto Sampler Components 4–6 Testing the Sample Probe 4–6 5 Using the Auto Sampler 5–2 Establishing Optimal Operating Conditions 5–2 Creating the Lab Environment 5–3 Replacing Auto Sampler Components 5–4 Purchasing Supplies 5–4...
  • Page 16 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Contents 7 Troubleshooting the Auto Sampler 7–2 Power System Problems 7–2 Interface Problems 7–3 RS-232 Cable Problems 7–3 Software Configuration Problems 7–3 Z-Drive Assembly Problems Glossary G–2...

  • Page 17: Preface

    Preface...

  • Page 18: Who Should Read This Book

    Chapter 1, “Introduction,” provides you with an overview of the ASX-260 Auto Sampler’s function and design. Chapter 2, “Preparing for Installation,” discusses space and power requirements that must be met before the ASX-260 is installed. It also provides instructions for unpacking the Auto Sampler.

  • Page 19: Conventions Used In This Book

    ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Preface Chapter 3, “Installing the Auto Sampler,” provides step-by-step procedures for installing the ASX-260 and connecting it to the analytical instrument. Chapter 4, “Verifying Installation,” explains how to test the communications interface between the ASX-260 and the host computer.

  • Page 20: Menu Items

    ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Preface Menu Items This book uses the following format for referring to menu items: » Settings Communication The text before the arrow symbol is the name of the menu; the text after the arrow symbol is the menu choice. This example refers to the Communications menu choice in the Settings menu.

  • Page 21: Notes

    ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Preface X-axis The left-to-right axis of the Auto Sampler. The front-to-back axis of the Auto Sampler. Y-axis Z-axis The up-and-down axis of the Auto Sampler. Notes Notes contain a reminder about the effect of particular actions. They...

  • Page 22: Where To Go For More Information

    ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Preface Where to Go for More Information In addition to the ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual, you can refer to the following resources: • The software manual for the analytical instrument you are using •...

  • Page 23: Introduction

    Introduction...

  • Page 24: Auto Sampler Standard Components

    Introduction The ASX-260 Auto Sampler is designed to be sturdy, reliable, and easy to use. It provides automated sample introduction that enables you to perform other tasks while the Auto Sampler runs. The ASX-260 automatically introduces up to 180 samples when fully loaded.
  • Page 25 (greater than 40%) • solutions of concentrated bases (greater than 10% potassium, ammonium, or sodium hydroxides) • partially halogenated hydrocarbons or extremely aggressive organic solvents (chloroform, methylene dichloride, 1,1,2-trichloroethane) Figure 1–1. ASX-260 Auto Sampler—Front View. 1–3...
  • Page 26 2 sample vial racks. Ribs located on the bottom of the sample tray hold the sample vial racks in place. B Sample vial racks. ASX-260 includes four sets of sample vial racks. You can choose from five different rack sizes (with either 21, 24, 40, 60 or 90 vials per rack).
  • Page 27 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Introduction Figure 1--- - 2. ASX-260 Auto Sampler----- - Back View. The following standard components are located on the back of the ASX- 260 and are shipped with the Auto Sampler. Each lettered item corresponds with a callout in Figure 1-- - 2.

  • Page 28: Optional Accessories

    C Optional 5-channel input/output (I/O) auxiliary port. D USB Option. TheASX-260 comes standard with a USB port. This port can be used to interface the ASX-260 with the host computer. The following standard components are also shipped with the ASX-260: •...
  • Page 29 Note: Contact CETAC Technologies if you need additional accessories not listed, need added features to integrate the ASX-260 Auto Sampler into your analytical system, or have unique requirements. Research and development of new features and accessories for the ASX-260 Auto Sampler, often inspired by customer requests, is a continuing activity of CETAC Technologies.

  • Page 30: Preparing For Installation

    Preparing for Installation...

  • Page 31: Choosing A Location

    Therefore, you should place the Auto Sampler close to the analytical instrument. The recommended minimum footprint for countertop installation of the ASX-260 is 50 x 71 x 76 centimeters. The normal operating position is horizontal, on a flat surface. The ASX-260 dimensions are 33 x 51 x 25 centimeters and weighs 8.4 kg.

  • Page 32: Power Requirements

    ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Preparing for Installation Ensure that there is a liquid waste receptacle within 2 meters of the ASX-260. The waste receptacle inlet should be at least 30 to 60 centimeters lower than the Auto Sampler rinse station outlet. Power Requirements Place the ASX-260 within 1.2 meters of a power outlet.
  • Page 33 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Preparing for Installation If the ASX-260 is shipped or removed from storage during cold weather, allow the packaged equipment to attain room temperature before opening and exposing to warm, humid air. It is usually sufficient to provide 4 to 8 hours for this purpose.

  • Page 34: Installing The Auto Sampler

    Installing the Auto Sampler...
  • Page 35 Installation consists of two parts: assembling the Auto Sampler and connecting it to the host analytical instrument. For the most part, you can install the ASX-260 without using tools. In fact, using tools such as screwdrivers or pliers to perform most installation tasks may result in a damaged or unusable instrument.

  • Page 36: Mounting The Z-Drive Assembly

    ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Installing the Auto Sampler Mounting the Z-Drive Assembly Mounting the z-drive assembly on the Auto Sampler is the first major task. The z-drive assembly must be attached to the Auto Sampler arm to allow movement and function of the sample probe.

  • Page 37: Attaching The Z-Drive Assembly To The Auto Sampler Arm

    ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Installing the Auto Sampler Attaching the Z-drive Assembly to the Auto Sampler Arm To attach the z-drive assembly to the Auto Sampler arm, complete the following steps, with reference to Figure 3-1. Position the z-drive assembly at the free end of the Auto Sampler arm with the z-drive assembly pointing up.
  • Page 38 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Installing the Auto Sampler PEEK cable goes right side z-axis rotor (as viewed from the back of the Auto Sampler. See Figures CAUTION 3-1 and 3-2. Failure to connect the cables correctly will result in Auto Sampler malfunction.

  • Page 39: Installing The Sample Probe

    ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Installing the Auto Sampler Installing the Sample Probe To install the sample probe, complete the following steps: 1 Install a clamp in the slot on the z-axis slider (Figure 3--- - 1). 2 Install the sample probe through the slider block and push through the clamp (Figure 3--- - 1).

  • Page 40: Setting The Z-Axis Travel

    ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Installing the Auto Sampler The sample transfer tubing should still have slack remaining when the probe is at the maximum downward limit. Setting the Z-Axis Travel To set the z-axis travel of the z-drive assembly, complete the following...
  • Page 41 To make fine adjustments to the sample probe X/Y targeting, loosen the nylon screw on the probe guide plate 1/8 to 1/4 turn and move the guide plate up to 0.2 millimeters from the original location. Be sure to tighten the nylon screw before operating the ASX-260. 3–8...

  • Page 42: Connecting The Rinse Station

    ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Installing the Auto Sampler Connecting the Rinse Station The cabinet-mounted rinse station is located at the extreme left position in the standards rack. Typically, deionized water is used as the rinse solution and is pumped into the rinse station by the on-board peristaltic pump.
  • Page 43 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Installing the Auto Sampler Figure 3–4. Pumped Drain Arrangement. To connect the rinse station using the pumped drain, complete the following steps: 1 Connect the rinse water source to the on-board peristaltic pump by inserting the 3-millimeter i.d. Tygon tubing onto the inlet at 1®...
  • Page 44 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Installing the Auto Sampler Use the tubing provided for the rinse solution uptake. 2 Connect the peristaltic pump to the rinse station by completing the following steps. Use approximately 30 centimeters of the 3-millimeter i.d. Tygon ®...

  • Page 45: Gravity Drain Arrangement

    ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Installing the Auto Sampler a Insert the 3-millimeter i.d. Tygon ® tubing onto the peristaltic pump outlet. Insert the tubing carefully because the rinse station fitting grips the tubing tightly. If you apply too much force, the fitting can break off.
  • Page 46 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Installing the Auto Sampler 1 Connect the rinse solution source to the on-board peristaltic pump by inserting the 3-millimeter i.d. Tygon tubing onto the ® inlet at the top of the pump. Use the tubing provided for the rinse solution uptake.

  • Page 47: Assembling And Placing The Sample Vial Racks

    Installing the Auto Sampler Assembling and Placing the Sample Vial Racks Sample vial racks for the ASX-260 Auto Sampler are shipped unassembled. However, you can easily assemble them without using tools. Once you assemble the sample vial racks, place them in the sample tray before proceeding with the installation.

  • Page 48: Establishing External Connections

    Ensure that the rack is not tilted and is properly placed. 4 Repeat step 3 until you place all the sample vial racks. When viewed from the front of the ASX-260, the sample vial racks should now be arranged on the sample tray as follows: rack #1 at the extreme left position, rack #2 at the left center position, rack #3 at the right center position, and rack #4 at the extreme right position.

  • Page 49: Connecting The Asx-260 Auto Sampler To The Host Computer

    Sampler supports the following two communications protocols: • The serial (RS-232C) protocol is the standard configuration. There are two RS-232C serial ports on the ASX-260, and a serial interface kit is shipped with the Auto Sampler. • The parallel (IEEE-488) protocol is less common than the serial configuration.

  • Page 50: Establishing A Serial Communications Interface

    “straight-through” (DTE-DCE) wiring. Establishing a Serial Communications Interface The serial interface kit provided with the ASX-260 Auto Sampler includes an interface cable equipped with two modular port adapters. Use the interface kit to establish a serial communications interface with the host computer.
  • Page 51 CETAC Technologies or purchase an adapter locally to convert the serial port to a DB9M. Do not use a “null modem” adapter. 3 Connect the other end of the cable to the ASX-260 COM1 port. CAUTION Ensure that you are connecting the adapter to the COM1 port.

  • Page 52: Establishing An Ieee Communications Interface

    2 Plug one end of the cable into the serial port on the 232/488 converter box. 3 Finger tighten both screws of the cable adapter. 4 Connect the other end of the cable to the ASX-260 COM1 port. CAUTION Ensure that you are connecting the adapter to the COM1 port.

  • Page 53: Verifying Installation

    Verifying Installation...

  • Page 54: Testing The Interface

    ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Verifying Installation Verifying Installation Once installation of the ASX-260 Auto Sampler is complete, it is important to verify that you have installed it correctly. Attempting to use it before ensuring that it is installed correctly may result in damage to the Auto Sampler.
  • Page 55 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Verifying Installation Note: The following procedures assume that you have opened Windows® 95 or Windows® NT and the Program Manager window is showing. To test the communications interface, complete the following steps: 1 Start the host computer and go to the main Windows® screen.
  • Page 56 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Verifying Installation 5 Double click on the Hyperterminal® icon. The Connection Description box appears (Figure 4–2). Figure 4–2. Connection Description Box. 6 Type the name COM1_test for the connection and choose an icon from the list given, and click OK.
  • Page 57 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Verifying Installation Figure 4-3. Phone Number Box. 7 Select Direct to COM1 in the Connect Using box. Click OK. The COM1 Properties box appears (Figure 4-4). Figure 4-4. COM1 Properties Box. 4–5...
  • Page 58 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Verifying Installation 8 Change the bits per second to 9600, set the data bits to 8, the parity to none, the stop bits to 1, the flow control to none, and click OK. 9 Select File>>>Properties.

  • Page 59: Checking The Auto Sampler Components

    ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Verifying Installation 12 Click OK on the COM1_Test Properties box. 13 Type HOME at the cursor in the upper left of the main Hyperterminal® screen and press Enter. The Auto Sampler resets, with the sample probe moving out and back into the home position.
  • Page 60 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Verifying Installation Note: Before testing the sample probe, ensure that you have installed all Auto Sampler components correctly. Also, ensure that you have securely tightened all thumbscrews and connected the communications cable from the host computer to the COM1 port on the Auto Sampler.
  • Page 61 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Verifying Installation Note: If the Auto Sampler alignment is not correct, contact CETAC Technologies Customer Service and Support or an authorized representative. 4–9...

  • Page 62: Using The Auto Sampler

    Using the Auto Sampler...

  • Page 63: Establishing Optimal Operating Conditions

    Using the Auto Sampler Using the Auto Sampler The ASX-260 Auto Sampler is both reliable and easy to use. Before using it, however, ensure that your lab environment provides operating conditions that will prolong the life of the ASX-260 Auto Sampler. Once the proper operating conditions are met, you can arrange the sample vial racks and start the Auto Sampler sequence run.

  • Page 64: Creating The Lab Environment

    20–70% non-condensing, and the unit is not exposed to excessive flammable or corrosive materials. • Avoid rough handling of the ASX-260 Auto Sampler. If possible, do not expose the Auto Sampler to vibration or shock. • Protect the Auto Sampler from long-term exposure to condensation, corrosive materials, solvent vapor, continual standing liquids, or large spills into the Auto Sampler cabinet or arm.

  • Page 65: Replacing Auto Sampler Components

    ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Using the Auto Sampler Replacing Auto Sampler Components The following ASX-260 Auto Sampler components wear out under normal use and must be replaced periodically. • peristaltic pump tubing • sample probe If you fail to replace these components when they deteriorate, the Auto Sampler will not function properly.

  • Page 66: Arranging The Sample Vial Racks

    Arranging the Sample Vial Racks You can change the arrangement of the sample vial racks to meet your needs. The ASX-260 Auto Sampler accommodates up to two sample vial racks of 21, 24, 40, 60, or 90 positions each. The Auto Sampler physically accepts any and all size combinations and arrangements of sample vial racks.
  • Page 67 Flush the rinse system a second time using deionized water as the rinse agent. 5 Access the host computer’s software and activate the Auto Sampler program. The ASX-260 Auto Sampler runs until it reaches the end of the sampling sequence. 5–6...

  • Page 68: Shutting Down The Auto Sampler

    If you use a rinse solution other than deionized water, flush the rinse system with deionized water before shutting down the ASX-260 Auto Sampler. For more information, see the following section, “Flushing the Rinse Station and Flow Path.”...
  • Page 69 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Using the Auto Sampler Flushing the rinse system during initial startup of the ASX-260 Auto Sampler removes any contaminants that could cause interference during sample analysis. Flushing the rinse system after using strong rinse agents prevents degradation and failure of the flow path components.

  • Page 70: Maintaining The Auto Sampler

    Maintaining the Auto Sampler...

  • Page 71: Cleaning The Auto Sampler

    Failure to do so regularly causes increased wear and reduces the Auto Sampler’s life. You must clean the ASX-260 Auto Sampler both daily and weekly to prevent damage and extend its life. It is especially important to clean up spills and remove contaminants, such as abrasives, from the Auto Sampler’s moving parts.

  • Page 72: Daily External Cleaning

    ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Maintaining the Auto Sampler Daily External Cleaning Use of the ASX-260 Auto Sampler often results in spills on Auto Sampler components such as the sample tray. Good maintenance requires that you clean the Auto Sampler daily. To do so, complete the following steps: 1 Shut down and unplug the Auto Sampler.
  • Page 73 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Maintaining the Auto Sampler 1 Shut down and unplug the Auto Sampler. 2 Remove the sample tray. For information about removing the sample tray, see “Replacing the Sample Tray” later in this chapter. 3 Wipe loose particles off the Y-axis lead screw with a dry, lint-free cloth.

  • Page 74: Checking For Leaks

    ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Maintaining the Auto Sampler Never lubricate the lead screws. The lead screw nuts are WARNING compounded with a dry film lubricant. Oiling the lead screws will cause gumming, galling, and binding of the sample probe assembly.

  • Page 75: Replacing Peristaltic Pump Tubing

    ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Maintaining the Auto Sampler 1 Shut down and unplug the Auto Sampler. 2 Visually inspect the sample probe, peristaltic pump tubing, and rinse station and tubing for leaks or signs of deterioration. If you detect a leak or other damage to an Auto Sampler component, you must replace it.

  • Page 76: Replacing The Sample Probe

    ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Maintaining the Auto Sampler Replacing the Sample Probe You must replace the sample probe if it is leaking or shows other signs of deterioration. To do so, complete the following steps: 1 Shut down and unplug the Auto Sampler.

  • Page 77: Replacing The Sample Tray

    7 Move the Auto Sampler arm back to the home position. Replacing the Sample Tray Cleaning the ASX-260 Auto Sampler sample tray each week extends its life and makes frequent replacement unnecessary. However, if the sample tray needs to be replaced, complete the following steps: 1 Shut down and unplug the Auto Sampler.
  • Page 78 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Maintaining the Auto Sampler Moving the Auto Sampler arm ensures that the sample probe assembly will not be damaged while you replace the sample tray. 4 Raise the rinse station tube approximately 2 centimeters. 5 Raise the front edge of the damaged tray at least 2.5 centimeters and slide it forward.

  • Page 79: Troubleshooting The Auto Sampler

    Troubleshooting the Auto Sampler...

  • Page 80: Power System Problems

    RS-232 cable, or the Auto Sampler. If you determine the problem is in the ASX-260 , check the power system, the communications interface, or the sample probe assembly to find the cause of the problem and resolve it.

  • Page 81: Interface Problems

    Troubleshooting the Auto Sampler Interface Problems Operation of the ASX-260 Auto Sampler is directed by the host computer. A malfunction of the Auto Sampler can indicate a problem with the RS-232 cable or with the configuration of the software on the host computer.

  • Page 82: Z-Drive Assembly Problems

    You can easily determine that a malfunction is related to the z-drive assembly if you hear a loud chattering noise when the ASX-260 power switch is on or if the sample probe is not moving. To troubleshoot z-drive assembly problems, complete the following...
  • Page 83 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Troubleshooting the Auto Sampler Figure 7–1. Z-Drive Assembly with Y-Axis Block Home Position Flag. 7–5...
  • Page 84 ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual Troubleshooting the Auto Sampler 3 Check that the sample probe is moving. If the sample probe is binding, free the sample probe assembly. Note: If you cannot free the z-drive assembly, you will need to replace it. See Chapter 3, “Installing the Auto Sampler,”...

  • Page 85: Glossary

    Glossary...
  • Page 86 Glossary This glossary defines the terms used in the ASX-260 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual. analytical instrument Y-axis slider block instrument, typically an ICP-AES component that fits over the Auto or ICP-MS, to which the Auto Sampler arm and executes the Sampler is connected.

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