Probing Problems; Probe Arm Jam; When The Sample Probe Hits An Object - Agilent Technologies SPS 4 User Manual

Probing Problems

Probe Arm Jam

A probe arm jam is indicated when the Agilent SPS 4 cannot complete its
instructed move. This could be caused by:
• The probe arm hitting an obstacle or the sample line is restricted while
• The moving components have excessive friction.
• The position of the probe arm has been moved without being driven by
If this happens, check the autosampler by doing the following:
1 Turn the power off and move each axis manually until they stop and
2 If no mechanical obstruction can be identified turn the unit back on
3 If unsuccessful contact your Agilent customer support representative.

When the Sample Probe Hits an Object

If the sample probe hits an object like a sample rack or sample vial, or it
misses the wash position in the fixed wash reservoir, it may generate
error condition 13 (refer to Table 1) and the autosampler will stop. Check
the following:
1 Check that the probe is straight and mounted tightly to the Z- axis slide.
2 The probe should pass through the center of the accessories plate at
3 Check that the spill tray and rack location mat are fitted correctly (see
4 Check that sample tubes sit vertically in the sample rack and are not
Agilent SPS 4 Autosampler User's Guide
moving into position.
the autosampler (for example, when bumped by a user).
determine if there is any mechanical obstruction preventing full travel.
and allow it to attempt the initialization sequence again.
the bottom of the probe arm (see
Chapter 3, "Installation" for instructions).
leaning to one side. If the sample tubes are not suitable for use with
the sample rack, change them to the correct diameter tubes to suit the
sample rack or change to the correct sample rack size.
Figure 13).
Troubleshooting 6
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