Cell Test - Agilent Technologies 1100 Series Reference Manual

3 Troubleshooting and Test Functions

Cell Test

The cell test measures the intensity of the deuterium and tungsten lamps over
the full wavelength range (190 – 950 nm), once with the flow cell installed, and
once with the flow cell removed. The resulting intensity ratio is a measure of
the amount of light absorbed by the flow cell. The test can be used to check for
dirty or contaminated flow cell windows. When the test is started, the 1-nm
slit is moved into the light path automatically, and the gain is set to zero. To
eliminate effects due to absorbing solvents, the test should be done with water
in the flow cell.
Cell Test Evaluation
The Aligent ChemStation calculates the intensity ratio automatically. The
intensity ratio (typically between 0.5 and 0.7) is dependent on the degree of
contamination of the flow cell windows, and on the type of flow cell used.
Figure 25
Test Failed (low ratio value)
• Absorbing solvent or air bubble in flow cell.
• Dirty or contaminated flow cell.
90
Cell Test Results
Probable Causes
Suggested Actions
Ensure the flow cell is filled with water, and free from air bubbles.
Exchange the flow cell windows.
1100 Series DAD and MWD Reference Manual