If you have a question about this product that is not answered in this manual, or if you need assistance regarding this product, please contact Dionex Technical Support. In the U.S., call 1-800- 346-6390. Outside the U.S., call the nearest Dionex office.
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This device complies with all CE rules and requirements. NOTE Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Risk of eye injury; wear safety glasses. Risk of fire. Risk of poison. Risk of explosion. Hazardous fumes. Hot surface; risk of burns. Laser light; avoid exposure. Risk of eye injury. Lifting hazard. May result in injury. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Input. Output. Equipment Yellow Caution, risk of danger labels are Stop color coded: Blue Mandatory action Green Safe condition or information Helpful hints, additional information Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Software ........................ 58 Using the AutoTrace (AT) Program ..............58 File Menu..................... 59 Methods Menu ..................... 59 Serial-Op Menu.................... 60 Diagnostics Menu ..................61 Login/Logout Menu ..................61 Data Menu ....................63 Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Sample Recovery ..................93 Setup Parameters ..................94 Method Steps ....................95 Operation ......................97 Preparing the AutoTrace SPE Workstation ............97 Running an AutoTrace SPE Method ..............101 LOAD Button Operation ................101 CONT Button Operation ................102 Front Panel Display During Operation ............102 Front Panel Display Messages..............
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Replacing and Adjusting the Air Syringe............132 Parts ......................132 Center the Syringe Plunger ................ 132 Remove the Defective Syringe ..............133 Mount the New Syringe................134 Adjust the New Syringe................134 Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Select the New Voltage................156 Converting from 100/120V to 220/240V ............. 157 Converting from 220/240V to 100/120V ............. 158 Verify Operation..................159 Specifications ..................... 160 Ordering Supplies ....................163 Glossary ......................165 Index ........................167 Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Installation Installation Parts Listing The Dionex AutoTrace SPE Workstation is available in two versions: Cartridge and Disk. The workstation comes with the following parts: • Workstation (Cartridge or Disk) • Sample Rack, 6-position • Waste Containers (2) • Startup Kit...
Provide an environment with the following: Operating 50 to 104°F (10 to 40°C) Temperature Relative Humidity 20-80% Operating Altitude -200 to 10,000 ft (-61 to 3048 meters) Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
• The most precise liquid transfer occurs with the solvent reservoirs positioned slightly higher than the workstation's 12-port valve. Dionex recommends that you do not place the solvent reservoirs on the top of the workstation. NOTE You must provide up to five suitable containers for your solvents.
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Gently pull the tubing upward until the barbed fitting seats itself within the recess of the tubing weight, as shown in Figure Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Cap the bottle and adjust the length of tubing until the weight touches the bottom surface of the reservoir, as shown in Figure Tubing Weight Figure 4. Tubing Weight in Reservoir Repeat steps 4 through 8 for each reservoir to be used. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Figure 6. Ball Stud and Base Plate Push the waste drain toward the back of the workstation. It only moves about 1/8 in (3 mm). This correctly positions the drain under the manifold. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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If necessary, cut the tubing to the desired length with wire cutters or scissors. Locate the tubing port labelled “WASTE” found directly below the five solvent tubing lines on the left side of the workstation, as shown in Figure Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Make sure the end of the tubing extends just below the top of the container. b Avoid sharp turns and uphill pieces of tubing from the workstation to the container. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Figure Exhaust Port Figure 9. Exhaust Port Route the hose to a suitable vent location. If necessary, use wire cutters or scissors to cut any excess hose as required. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Figure 10. Barbed Fitting on Tubing Connect the open end of the Quick-disconnect fitting (see Figure 11) to the gas inlet on the lower-left side of the workstation (see Figure 12). Figure 11. Quick-Disconnect Fitting Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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100 psi (6.9 bars). Before operating the AutoTrace Workstation, you need to set the workstation pressure to 10 psi (0.7 bars). Refer to “Operation” on page 97 for instructions. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Figure 13. AutoTrace Left Side View Make sure each screw is finger tight. Perform the same check for the compression screws on the pumps and column holders on the front of the workstation. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Follow Microsoft's recommendation for the computer specification, with the following minimum hardware specifications: Windows 2000 — CPU = 400MHz — RAM = 128M Windows XP — CPU = 650MHz — RAM = 192M Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Files\Dionex\AutoTrace SPE Workstation. NOTE If the software is installed in a directory other than C:\Program Files\Dionex\AutoTrace SPE Workstation, the INI file has to be modified as described in “INI File” on page Open the AutoTrace software by choosing from the Windows Start menu Programs→Dionex→AutoTrace SPE Workstation.
• Saving the INI fil, and • Starting the AutoTrace software. If the program is installed in a directory other than C:\Program Files\Dionex\AutoTrace SPE Workstation, you must modify the following entries: Database_Data=C:\<DIRECTORY_NAME>\ATDATA.MDB Data_Dir=C:\<DIRECTORY_NAME>\ where <DIRECTORY_NAME> identifies the directory where the files reside.
Description The AutoTrace SPE Workstation performs large-volume solid phase extraction using a variety of manufacturers' 1 mL, 3 mL, 6 mL, or glass (6 or 8 mL) syringe-type SPE columns or 47 mm disks.
Cleaning the Sample Path Use CLEAN SAMPLE PATH method steps between sample batches to prevent cross-contamination. Concentrating the Sample Use CONCENTRATE SAMPLE for automated concentration of the eluent. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
(depending on the workstation’s type) for the extraction process. Elution Station Collects aqueous effluent, solvent effluent, or sample effluent on the elution station. These components are shown in detail in the next view. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Used to download a method from the PC. PAUSE Button Used to stop the workstation after it completes the step it is performing. 10 CONT Button By pressing CONT twice slowly, downloads a method from the PC. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Input for the clean gas supply. Air Syringe Draws in and delivers air that follows sample or solvent transfer (to assure transfer is complete). Liquid Handling Draws in and dispenses solvent through Syringe the workstation. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Air Valve (3-Way Draws in air for the air syringe. Valve) Aqueous Waste Routes aqueous effluent to waste. Tubing (not shown) Solvent Waste Routes sample and solvent effluent to Tubing (not waste. shown) Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Exhaust Port Outlet for routing solvent vapors to a suitable vent location. Communications Connects the communication cable Port from the AutoTrace Workstation to the Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Software files and functions are listed in Table Table 2. Software Files and Functions Files Function Software CD Files Installs the AutoTrace software on the computer. Doc Folder Contains the user’s guide. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
12-port valve selects one of five solvents Liquid handling and air syringes fill with conditioning solvent See Figure 20 Continued... Figure 19. Condition Column: Liquid Handling and Air Syringes Fill Flow Chart Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Solvent 1 for condition step Solvent 2 Solvent 3 Solvent 4 Liquid Air Syringe Solvent 5 Waste Handling Syringe Figure 20. Condition Column: Liquid Handling and Air Syringes Fill Diagram Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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See Figure 24 for air push with Air Factor of 1.0 See Figure 25 for air push with Air Factor of 0.5 Continued... Figure 23. Condition Column: Air Push Flow Chart Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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12-Port Valve Vent Valve Solvent 1 Solvent 2 Solvent 3 Solvent 4 Air Syringe Liquid Solvent 5 Waste Handling Syringe Figure 24. Condition Column: Air Push with Air Factor of 1.0 Diagram Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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12-Port Valve Vent Valve Solvent 1 Solvent 2 Solvent 3 Solvent 4 Liquid Air Syringe Solvent 5 Handling Waste Syringe Figure 25. Condition Column: Air Push with Air Factor of 0.5 Diagram Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Overview Continued... Pump turns on and pumps sample through switching valve and onto column See Figure 27 Continued... Figure 26. Load Sample Flow Chart Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Overview Continued... Switching valve selects gas port Gas flows through column to dry See Figure 35 Continued... Figure 34. Dry with Gas Flow Chart Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Software Software This section of the manual describes how to use the software supplied with the AutoTrace SPE workstation, provides a method example, and lists some application tips. Once you install the AutoTrace software, follow these general steps to automate a method: Open the AutoTrace (AT) software.
This allows you to write a new method and edit values, as well as print the method steps and the parameter or solvent settings. For more details, refer to “Writing a Method” on page Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Purge Solvents (purges the AutoTrace solvent lines) • Benchmark Test (tests general AutoTrace operation) • Calibrate Pump (calibrates the AutoTrace sample pumps) • Set Date and Time (sets the AutoTrace date and time) Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Selecting Login from the menu opens the User Identification window (see Figure 47). Type a User ID and Password, and then click the OK button. The default User ID is ADMIN and the default password is ADMIN. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Figure 48. Change Password Window Logout Log out of the software by selecting Logout from the menu. Your access rights are changed to READ-ONLY mode. The status bar shows “No user logged in”. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Figure 50. (This menu option is available only if the user type selected in the Setup User Data window (see Figure 51) corresponds to Service.) Figure 50. Setup AutoTrace Commands Window Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Administrator - Manage additional user data. The access rights for the user type are displayed on the right of the Setup User Data window: • Read-only mode • Print mode • Write mode • Delete mode Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Shows the Help contents and the index. While working with the program, open the Help window by pressing the F1 key. About Opens the About window, which contains additional information about the AutoTrace system. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Purge Solvent utility method provided or write your own purge method. Purging the sample lines is described “Customizing a Method to Purge Less than Five Solvent Lines” on page Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
(+ 2 minutes) of your computer is written to the AutoTrace Workstation. After about one minute, a beep signals that the workstation is ready to update its date and time using the values from the method. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Creating a Method to Clean the Sample Lines with Solvent and DI Water Before beginning routine operation with the AutoTrace SPE Workstation, a method is needed for cleaning the sample lines. If the method does not end with CLEAN SAMPLE PATH steps (see “Clean Sample Path”...
Specify the parameter and solvent information, using the two choices available from the DATA program option. Default Entries The two choices from the DATA program option are SETUP PARAMETERS and NAME SOLVENTS, beginning with default entries. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Default button on the Setup Parameters window that is accessed from the Data menu. Global default parameters include flow rates, SPE parameters, and workstation parameters. See Figure Contact the column or disk manufacturer for their recommended flow rates. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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(which contains parameters that are local to the specific method) that can be opened from within the Setup Methods window. The Default button does not appear on the local Setup Parameters window. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Click the Save button. To recall the default entries, click the Default button. Values shown in Table 3 are for both the Column and Disk versions of the AutoTrace Workstation, unless otherwise specified. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Then, if either can be increased for better throughput without negative effects, your final Air Push rate may differ from its corresponding flow rate. e. This parameter is useful when transferring viscous liquids. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Table Exhaust Fan On Enable or disable the exhaust fan for solvent Y or N vapor removal during operation. Beeper On Enable or disable the workstation's beeper. Y or N Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Use the arrow keys to move to the field that requires changing and specify the name of the solvents used in your method. Up to 15 characters are allowed for each solvent name. NOTE Type “Not Used” for any unused solvent port. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Load button to open the Find Method window (see Figure 59) and double-click the method that you want to open. The selected method is loaded in the Setup Methods window. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Step 1: Process 2 samples, using the following method steps: Default value: 6 Solvent set - Select a solvent set with up to five solvents by clicking the button next to the solvent in the solvent box. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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For more details, refer to “Changing Setup” on page Print Print the method. The printout includes: • The AutoTrace SPE software version and the method title • A listing of the method steps • A record of the setup parameters Help Press the F1 key to open the Help window.
Double-click the method step to be deleted in the list of method steps on the right side of the Setup Methods window. NOTE The first step (“Process x samples using...”) and the last step (“End”) can't be deleted. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
12-port and switching valves. The air push clears the lines between the switching valve and column or disk of any remaining solvent prior to the next conditioning, column or disk rinsing, or sample loading step. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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This is useful when a sample contains volatile compounds. TIMED PAUSE - After conditioning, this step introduces a time delay to increase contact time between solvent and column or disk packing material. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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COLUMN RINSE (or DISK RINSE) step so that a smaller air push is used. • Always rinse the column or disk after sample loading to clear the lines of conditioning solvent before eluting, especially if the Air Factor is less than 1. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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This is important when the elution solvent is not miscible in water. NOTES • A recommended time is 15 minutes at 10 psi (0.7 bars) using zero-grade nitrogen with an in-line scrubber. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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If an intermediate solvent is required between the elution solvent and water, insert a third CLEAN SAMPLE PATH step using this solvent between these two steps. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
• Using a minimum amount of air when performing multiple elution steps prevents column or disk drying. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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This step causes the workstation to pause for the operator to change collection containers. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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If an intermediate solvent is required between the elution solvent and water, insert a third CLEAN SAMPLE PATH step using this solvent between these two steps. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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To concentrate the final eluent, specify the time in minutes for gas to flow into the collection containers. This step causes the workstation to pause for you to replace the SPE columns with empty columns before gas flows into the collection containers. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Wash syringe with 2 mL of MeCl (or by Autowash). Collect 5 mL fraction into sample tube, using MeCl. End Method This selection completes the entry of your method steps. This step is required for all methods. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Dry the SPE cartridge under vacuum for 10 minutes. Elute the SPE cartridge with 5 mL of ethyl acetate to collect. Elute the SPE cartridge with 5 mL of methylene chloride to collect. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Wash syringe with 2 mL of MeCl Step 13: Collect 5 mL fraction into sample tube manual step #7 using MeCl Step 14: a. To eliminate all traces of the previous solvent before using the next solvent. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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2, 5, 10, and 12 in the method. NAME SOLVENTS Solvent 1: MeOH Solvent 2: WATER Solvent 3: EtOAc Solvent 4: MeCl Solvent 5: not used a. The corresponding solvent names are specified. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Sample retention - still on column or disk. c. Sample adsorption. NOTE Sometimes sample recovery is optimized at the expense of sample throughput (e.g., slower flow rates and longer times). Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
WASH SYRINGE method steps printout for auditing purposes where needed a. When using an Air Factor less than 1, always perform a COLUMN RINSE (or DISK RINSE) after loading the sample. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
ELUTE TO SOAK step you need to increase the contact use an ELUTE TO SOAK step before ELUTE time between solvent and packing TO COLLECT material for extraction of analytes Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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10 mL, you can save time by using a single 40 mL CLEAN SAMPLE PATH step to aqueous waste. Follow with a PAUSE AND ALERT step for moving the lines from the water container to the sample containers. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Operation Operation This section describes the steps involved in operating the AutoTrace SPE Workstation. The information is divided into three major topics: • Preparing the AutoTrace SPE Workstation for operation • Running the AutoTrace SPE method • What to do after running the method Also see the “Method Development Checklist”...
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Operation Preparing the AutoTrace SPE Workstation (Continued) Place a collection container in each elution rack position. Install the elution rack onto the two pins on the front of the elution station. NOTE The rack is symmetrical and can be positioned either way.
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Operation Preparing the AutoTrace SPE Workstation (Continued) Lever Plunger Column Figure 62. Column Holder Front View Lever Clip Locking Collar Figure 63. Disk Holder Front View Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Operation 100 Preparing the AutoTrace SPE Workstation (Continued) 10 Place a sample container in each rack position to be used and insert the sample line with tubing weight into the appropriate container. Each sample line and each rack position is numbered...
Operation 101 Running an AutoTrace SPE Method The front panel controls are displayed in Figure 65 and their functions are described in Table READY ERROR LOAD PAUSE CONT Figure 65. Front Panel Controls Table 10. Front Panel Controls Part Function...
For example, while a sample is being loaded (pumped) onto the column, the front panel displays: LOADING SAMPLES ONTO COLUMNS @ 10 MLS/MIN 5 MINUTES LEFT Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Concentrate CONCENTRATION STEP Sample PLACE EMPTY COLUMNS IN THE HOLDERS PRESS CONT TO RESUME Clean Sample TO CLEAN SAMPLE PATH Path PLACE SAMPLE INPUT LINES INTO A BREAKER PRESS CONT TO RESUME Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Release the column or disk holders from the fully down position by squeezing the holder's lever and clipping them together, as shown in Figure Lever Clip Figure 66. Column Holder - Side View Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
(for example, changing flow rates or volumes). The need for changes may not be evident until the examination of the recovery data for the sample run. If necessary, refer to “Application Tips” on page Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Press and hold the LOAD button while turning the power back on, and then release the LOAD button. If the condition persists, the file may be bad. Download the method again. If the condition still persists, contact Dionex Technical Support (see “Contact Us” on page Sample Run Completion If the Beeper On parameter is set to YES, the workstation beeps every 60 seconds to alert you to the end of the sample run.
Close the Find Method window. Edit the method. After making changes to the method, choose Save Method. Test the Changes To test the changes, run the method to evaluate the outcome of the changes. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
O-ring. Removing Used Disks Remove the used disks by unscrewing the locking collar (see Figure 68), squeezing the clip and moving it up toward the lever, and sliding the holder up. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
LED on. Download the Clean Sample Path method that was saved to the database. When the workstation pauses the first time, insert the sample lines into a clean container filled with a solvent. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Lines Utility” on page 66 “Customizing a Method to Purge Less than Five Solvent Lines” on page 67) and press the CONT button twice slowly. When the workstation pauses, press the CONT button. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Based on recovery data and observations during operation, make any necessary procedural changes, using the METHODS program option. Remove the used columns or disks. Prepare to run the next batch of samples by cleaning the sample lines. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Prepare to run the next batch of samples by cleaning the sample lines. If done for the day, clean up by emptying the waste reservoirs and flushing the solvent and sample lines. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
AutoTrace Diagnostics • Troubleshooting Guide If you have any additional questions about diagnosing workstation problems, contact Dionex Technical Support (see “Contact Us” on page 3). When calling, please have the information recorded in the front of the manual ready for the Technical Support Representative.
Check 12-port valve integrity of the 12-port valve WARNING Do not run the valves diagnostic if the solvent lines have not yet been purged. Prime or drain the liquid Purge Solvents lines Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Press the CONT button twice... rapidly Stop continuous Press the PAUSE button routines a. To run a subsequent method or diagnostic, select another diagnostic from the drop-down menu, and then press CONT twice slowly. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
If after following this manual you need additional help, contact Dionex Technical Support (see “Contact Us” on page 3). When calling, please have the information recorded in the front of the manual ready for the Technical Support Representative. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
4c. Column or disk holder 4c. Push down on the holder not fully down – holder's lever until it “clicks” and the green LED is Off. holder's green LED comes On. Press the LOAD button. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Contact Dionex Technical the end of, a method. Support. Computer Troubleshooting Table 15. Computer Symptom Probable Cause Solution Unable to download a Communication error. Check the communication method. cable and the COM port setting. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
If the problem continues, contact Dionex Technical Support. 4. Valves leak. 4a. Flow rate is too high. 4a. Adjust the flow rate. 4b. Valve fitting loose. 4b. Tighten the valve fitting. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Help. Do not run the diagnostic until all solvent lines have been purged. If the problem continues, contact Dionex Technical Support. 5h. Steps using immiscible 5h. Wash the syringe with solvents. intermediate solvent between steps. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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8. Loose fitting at 12-port 8. Check the tightness of the elution containers. For valve or switching valve. fittings. example, 10 mL is expected and one container has 8 mL, while the other has 12 mL. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
3b. The gas pressure is set 3b. Decrease the gas too high. pressure. 4. Low recovery. 4. Varies. 4. Refer to the list in “Sample Recovery Optimization” on page Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
139. 8. Sample pump fails 8. Bad electronics board or 8. Contact Dionex Technical to start. pump. Support to determine the faulty part and replace. See “Ordering Supplies” on page 163. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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10. Elution station 10. Bad stepper motor or 10. Run the “Benchmark Test does not move into loose connection on control Utility” on page 141 the correct position. board. contact Dionex Technical Support. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
File Download Completed 16385 Port Control Error Check COM port communications. 16896 No Response time-out Check the connection with the AutoTrace and verify that the correct COM port is set in the AT.INI file. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Maintenance 126 Maintenance This section of the manual describes how to maintain, adjust, and replace components in the AutoTrace SPE Workstation, including: • Routine Maintenance • Replacing and Adjusting the Liquid Handling Syringe • Replacing and Adjusting the Air Syringe •...
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General Operation (Benchmark Test) Utility” on page 68). This utility checks the operation of the workstation front panel, elution station, syringes, pumps, and valves, and is described in detail at the end of this section. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Run the Diagnostics menu option and download an Adjust Liquid Syringe diagnostic as described in “AutoTrace Diagnostics” on page 114. Press the CONT button twice slowly. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Holding the black mounting bracket in your left hand and the syringe in your right hand, turn the syringe counterclockwise until it disengages from the fitting. Separate the syringe from the fitting. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
To adjust the new syringe: Loosen the knurled thumbscrew approximately two turns, as shown in Figure Stainless Steel Tubing Compression Screw Plunger Driving Arm Knurled Thumbscrew Thumbwheel Figure 70. Syringe Knurled Thumbscrew Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Check that, as the plunger moves to the top, it moves the stainless tubing to the correct height. After the plunger has pushed the stainless tubing to the correct height, tighten the white compression screw. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
From the AutoTrace main menu, choose Diagnostics→Syringes: Adjust Air Syringe and download the Adjust Air Syringe diagnostic as described in “AutoTrace Diagnostics” on page 114. Press the CONT button twice slowly. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Gently slide the syringe assembly out of the housing. Loosen the Luer-Lock fitting between the tubing and the syringe by turning the lower fitting counterclockwise approximately ½ turn. Now, turn the syringe and remove it from the fitting. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Secure the plunger to the arm with the black thumbscrew previously removed. Adjust the New Syringe To adjust the new syringe: Loosen the knurled thumbscrew approximately two turns, as shown in Figure 73 on page 135. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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SYRINGE diagnostic. As the plunger moves up, you should hear a “clicking” sound. Turn the thumbwheel to the right just until the “clicking” stops. Then turn it one more partial turn, as shown in Figure Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Figure 74. Thumbwheel Rotation Tighten the knurled thumbscrew to secure the position. Press the CONT button twice quickly again to rerun the diagnostic. Confirm that the syringe drive mechanism is operating correctly. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Swing the power entry port door outward, toward you. Hold the fuse block assembly and pull it out from the power entry port housing. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Only plug the AC power cord into a properly grounded outlet. Only use a standard IEC 320-style power cord appropriate for your country. Turn the workstation on. Verify that the READY light comes on and the workstation operates normally. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
If the volume of water that the utility pumps is 103 mL rather than the expected 100 mL, the volume is off by 3%. Locate the pump’s calibration screw in the hole on the right side of the pump, as shown in Figure Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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¼ of a turn. Rerun the calibration utility to test the change and make any further adjustments that are needed. Repeat steps 3 through 7 for each sample pump to be calibrated. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Front panel RUN light turns on. b Front panel ERROR light turns on. Elution shuttle moves to its three different positions. d Exhaust fan turns on. Holder’s LEDs are lit. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Place all sample lines in a container of water. Verify that all pumps direct sample to aqueous waste. If you need to repeat the Benchmark Test, press the CONT button twice quickly. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Grasp the bottom of the Teflon tubing and carefully pull it upward until it slides off the top end of the stainless tubing. Unscrew the plunger assembly (see Figure 77) and pull it down to remove it from the column holder. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Figure Teflon Tubing Push tubing down Stainless Tubing Figure 78. Teflon Tubing Installation Now push the tubing clamp down until it is positioned as shown Figure Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Column Holder Conversion 145 Install the New Plunger Assembly (Continued) Push clamp down Figure 79. Tubing Clamp Positioning Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Replacement SPE column holder • Replacement SPE disk holder Procedure Overview Remove the existing column or disk holder. Install the new column or disk holder. Change the sample pump. Reconfigure the AutoTrace software. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Remove the two top screws from the static strap. The static strap is on the back side of the column holder. 10 Remove the two Phillips screws from the front of the workstation, and remove the holder. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Double-click the AutoTrace Method Steps line in the left pane. Expand the Solid Phase Extract option, double-click Load Sample, and set the volume to 10.0 mL. Double-click Dry with Gas and set the time to 0.5 mins. Save the method. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Set the rear cover and screws aside. Locate the back of the defective pump and follow the pump’s wires to the white connector that connects the pump to the wiring harness. Figure 82. Pump, Back View Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Reconnect the power cord and turn on power to the AutoTrace. From the main menu, choose Serial-Op→Download Utility Procedure and choose Calibrate Pump. Follow the instructions in the Help screens to run the calibration utility. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Change the version number to reflect your new configuration. Save the AT.INI file and close it. Downloading the New Dictionary to AutoTrace Open the AutoTrace software. The title bar should display the proper version (Cartridge or Disk). Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Follow the steps in HyperTerminal to set up a new connection by selecting a name and an icon. In the connect to screen, select COM1. The COM1 Properties window opens, as shown in Figure Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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In the COM1 Settings screen, select the parameters shown in Figure Figure 84. COM1 Properties Window Click the OK button. From the main menu, select File→Properties. The Properties window opens, as shown in Figure Figure 85. Properties Window Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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BMATD103.BMD). If both files are on the AutoTrace, type ERASE to delete all the files. Close HyperTerminal and open AutoTrace software. Make sure the correct version is listed on the AutoTrace software title bar and download either a utility or diagnostic method. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Two 1.6A 220/240V fuses or one 3A 100/120V fuse Refer to Figure 87 as required. Power Entry Port Housing Fuse Voltage Selector Card Fuse Block Assembly Figure 87. Fuse Block Assembly Removal Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Orient the voltage selector card so that the numbers indicating the desired voltage are positioned at the bottom of the card, as shown in Figure Indicator Pin CORCOMM 100V 120V 230V 240V Desired Voltage Figure 88. Voltage Selector Card Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Slide the fuse block assembly into the power entry port housing and snap it into place. Change the voltage on the voltage selector card. Close the power entry port door and verify that the indicator pin shows the desired voltage. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
Only plug the AC power cord into a properly grounded outlet. Only use a standard IEC 320-style power cord appropriate for your country. Turn the workstation on. Verify that the READY light on the workstation’s front panel is Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
1 mL syringe-compatible columns 3 mL syringe-compatible columns 6 mL syringe-compatible columns 6 mL glass syringe-compatible columns 8 mL glass syringe-compatible columns Column Plunger: Adapters available for four column types Extraction Disks: 47 mm Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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• Do not run pumps dry. Always leave DI water in the sample lines when the workstation is not in use. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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1.36 mL SPE cartridge 38 in (97 cm) 1.52 mL SPE cartridge Elution station or 24 in (61 cm) 0.96 mL elution manifold Pumps Sample containers 54 in (137 cm) 2.16 mL Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
071077 Plunger assembly for 1 mL columns 071078 Plunger assembly for 3 mL columns 071079 Plunger assembly for 6 mL columns 071080 Plunger assembly for 6 mL or 8 mL columns 071081 Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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Sample Pump Replacement Kit – cartridge model 071083 Sample Pump Replacement Kit – disk model 071084 Switching Valve Replacement Kit 071087 Teflon Tubing Kit (all tubing other than sample and 071088 waste) Waste Tubing Kit 071089 Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
“Procedure” instead of Method, but the terms have the same meaning.) AutoTrace Software that provides menu software for setting up Software the method in the computer, and operating software for running the method in the AutoTrace SPE Workstation. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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The screen display of all changeable AutoTrace Parameters parameters. Every parameter listed begins with a default value. SETUP The program used to install the AutoTrace software Program on the computer hard drive. Doc. 065296-01 1/09 AutoTrace SPE Workstation User’s Manual...
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