Table of Contents
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Troubleshooting
Problem type
Software and/or Hardware
related
Chemistry/Flow/Hardware/
Software related
Software and/or Hardware
related
Software related
Chemistry/Flow/Hardware/
Software related
Software related
Software related
Software related
80
Table 14 Troubleshooting problems (continued)
Problem description
The computer shows that
an Application Error has
occurred.
Check standards keep
failing.
Sampler time out
The heater element does
not heat.
Calibration fails
The baseline is not at
zero.
Probe keeps hitting cups.
Peaks are smaller than
the ones obtained in the
past.
Solution
Application errors can occur when the computer is asked to do
something it does not understand or it cannot do. These errors
are more frequently found when more than one program is
running on the computer at the same time. The system will
typically offer two choices: Retry or Ignore. Select Ignore to
close the application or program where the problem occurred.
™
Exit Windows
and restart that application again.
It is important to identify whether the error is reproducible or
random. Document a random error for future reference. If the
problem can be reproduced, contact the manufacturer
for assistance.
There are many causes for a check standard to fail. Repeating
the run over and over again will not fix the problem. Look for the
causes of the problem. Are the check standards made properly?
Are there flow problems? Make sure the calibration curve is
acceptable. The "R" should be 0.995 or better. In general,
residuals should be less than 1% for the higher standards and
less than 10% for the lower standards.
The sample line or dilutor tubing may impede the free movement
of the sample probe. Make sure that the system has the latest
version of software installed. A loose or unplugged sampler
cable may be responsible for sampler time outs. Refer to
section 3.3 on page 21
for correct assembly.
Make sure the heater temperature has been set for that channel
in Run Properties>Analytes.
There are many causes for a calibration to fail. Repeating the
run repeatedly will not fix the problem. Look for the causes of the
problem. Are the check standards made properly? Are there flow
problems? Are the peaks being integrated properly? Are the
specified concentrations correct. Are there peaks? Is the
response very low?
This is usually not a problem. The baseline will most likely be at
a value other than zero depending on the color of the reagents,
interference filter, etc. The baseline could be much higher than
normal for a specific analysis based on historic data. This could
be due to reagent contamination or old reagents. Reagent
contamination and reagents that get darker as they get older will
affect the analysis.
Note: Make sure the baseline is close to zero when running DI
water or air through the flow cell. If not, contact Technical
Support.
Make sure the probe is not bent. Seat the sample racks
correctly. Align the probe with the wash bath. Contact the
manufacturer if this problem persists.
Check the manifold against the manifold diagram in the method.
Make sure that the reagent lines are in the correct reagent
containers. Verify the sample loop. Check the standards
preparation procedure. Make sure the reagents are made
properly. Test the Valve Timing.
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Table of Contents
Troubleshooting
