Diagnostic Values - Agilent Technologies 4500 Series Operation Manual

Getting Started
Like any measurement device, it is important to verify that the 4500
Series FTIR instrument is performing properly before using the
system to make critical measurements. The instrument provides both
diagnostic values and performance validation tests to demonstrate
the system's performance. The diagnostic values provide an easy to
understand, quick assessment of the instrument's function. If the
instrument is not functioning properly, one of the diagnostic values
will be out of specification. Typically, the instrument will not allow
data collection if the diagnostic values are out of specification.
Performance validation tests are longer, more involved tests that
measure how well the instrument is working. The tests listed under
'Performance validation' check the instrument's sensitivity
(performance), stability and frequency precision (laser calibration).
Each industry has different requirements for instrument verification.
In general, the diagnostic values should be checked on a daily or
weekly basis. The instrument will not collect data if the diagnostic
values are grossly out of specification, but it is good practice to verify
that the instrument is working properly. Performance validation
should be run on a quarterly or bi-annual basis. Highly-regulated
industries may require the performance validation to be run
monthly, depending on the use of the instrument. The performance
validation verifies the key aspects to the instrument's ability to
measure good data. If the performance validation tests are within
specification, the instrument should provide data that works well
with methods developed for the 4500 Series FTIR spectrometer. As
with any instrument, however, results can always be verified by
running a known sample with the sample specific method.

Diagnostic values

The following values can also be viewed on the Diagnostics page in
the MicroLab PC software. These values can be used to determine if
the instrument is working properly. They can be used on a daily basis
to determine that the instrument is operating as intended. In each
case, the Optimal value indicates that the system is running at its
intended performance level. The Marginal value indicates that the
instrument is still functioning, but at a lower performance level. The
Critical value indicates that the system is not working correctly.
Contact Agilent technical support for assistance if there is a problem
with your instrument.
Agilent 4500 Series FTIR Operation Manual 15