Dionex As Operator's Manual
AS Autosampler
Operator's Manual
Document No. 065051
Revision 03
January 2008
©2008 by Dionex Corporation
All rights reserved worldwide.
Printed in the United States of America.
This publication is protected by federal copyright law. No part of this publication
may be copied or distributed, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or
transmitted into any human or computer language, in any form or by any means,
electronic, mechanical, magnetic, manual, or otherwise, or disclosed to third parties
without the express written permission of Dionex Corporation, 1228 Titan Way,
Sunnyvale, California 94088-3603 U.S.A.
DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY AND LIMITED WARRANTY
THIS PUBLICATION IS PROVIDED “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF
ANY KIND. DIONEX CORPORATION DOES NOT WARRANT,
GUARANTEE, OR MAKE ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED
REPRESENTATIONS REGARDING THE USE, OR THE RESULTS OF THE
USE, OF THIS PUBLICATION IN TERMS OF CORRECTNESS, ACCURACY,
RELIABILITY, CURRENTNESS, OR OTHERWISE. FURTHER, DIONEX
CORPORATION RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REVISE THIS PUBLICATION
AND TO MAKE CHANGES FROM TIME TO TIME IN THE CONTENT
HEREINOF WITHOUT OBLIGATION OF DIONEX CORPORATION TO
NOTIFY ANY PERSON OR ORGANIZATION OF SUCH REVISION OR
CHANGES.
TRADEMARKS
Chromeleon is a registered trademark and PolyVial is a trademark of Dionex
Corporation.
PEEK is a trademark of Victrex plc.
Teflon and Tefzel are registered trademarks of E.I. duPont de Nemours & Co.
Microsoft, Windows XP, and Windows 2000 are registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation.
PRINTING HISTORY
Revision 01, May 2005
Revision 02, August 2006
Revision 03, January 2008
1 • Introduction
1.1 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.2 About This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.2.1 Safety Messages and Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1.3 Safety and Regulatory Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.3.1 Safety Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2•Description
2.1 Overview of Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.2 Front Panel Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.2.1 Keypad Button Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Contents
2.2.2 Display Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
2.3 Autosampler Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
2.3.1 Syringe and Reservoir Organizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
2.3.2 Sampling Needle Arm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
2.3.3 Sampling Needle Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
2.3.4 Flush, Waste, and Inject Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
2.3.5 Sample Vials and Well Plates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
2.3.6 Injection Valve Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
2.3.7 Sample Temperature Control Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
2.3.8 Simultaneous Injection Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
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2.3.9 Sequential Injection Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
2.3.10 Concentrator Injection Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
2.4 Rear Panel Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
2.4.1 USB Receptacle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
2.4.2 TTL/Relay Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
2.4.3 Fuse Holder and Power Receptacle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
2.5 Autosampler Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
2.5.1 Local Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
2.5.2 Computer Control (Locked Remote Mode) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
2.6 System Wellness and Predictive Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
2.7 Theory of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
2.7.1 Understanding the Wait Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
2.7.2 Overlapping Sample Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
2.7.3 Running Samples Without Overlap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
2.7.4 Operating the AS as the System Master (Disabling the
Wait Operation) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
2.7.5 Understanding the Cycle Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
2.7.6 Operating Events During a Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
2.7.7 Understanding the Status Display During a Run . . . . . . . . . . . .40
2.7.8 Operating Events During Flushing and Priming . . . . . . . . . . . .41
2.7.9 Sample and Prep Syringe Fluid Schematics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
3 • Operation and Maintenance
3.1 Getting Ready to Run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
3.1.1 Turn On the Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
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3.1.2 Fill the Vials or Wells and Load the Sample Tray . . . . . . . . . . 46
3.2 Selecting Computer or Front Panel (Local) Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
3.2.1 Connecting to Chromeleon or Chromeleon Xpress . . . . . . . . . 52
3.2.2 Running a Sequence of Injections in Chromeleon or
Chromeleon Xpress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
3.3 Default Operating Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
3.4 Specifying Sample Positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
3.4.1 Vial Tray Sample Positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
3.4.2 Well Plate Tray Sample Positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
3.5 Specifying Injection Volumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
3.6 Sample Injection Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
3.6.1 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
3.6.2 Determining the Injection Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
3.6.3 Determining the Sample Loop Injection Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
3.6.4 Guidelines for Sample Volumes Used, Loop Sizes, and
Injection Volumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
3.6.5 Normal, Full-Loop Injections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
3.6.6 Normal, Large-Loop Injections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
3.6.7 Normal, Partial-Loop Injections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
3.6.8 Normal, Partial-Loop, Limited-Sample Injections . . . . . . . . . . 76
3.6.9 Simultaneous Injections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
3.6.10 Concentrate Injections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
3.6.11 Sequential Injections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
3.6.12 Sequential Concentrate Injections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
3.7 Selecting Syringe Speed Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
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3.7.1 Selecting Syringe Speeds on the Control Panel . . . . . . . . . . . .93
3.7.2 Entering Syringe Speeds in the Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94
3.8 Syringe Speed and Tubing Size Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97
3.9 Opening the Autosampler Door During Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100
3.10 Routine Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102
3.10.1 Daily . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102
3.10.2 Periodically . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103
3.10.3 Annually . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103
3.10.4 Manually Flushing the Inject Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103
3.11 System Shutdown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .104
4 • Troubleshooting
4.1 Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105
4.2 Liquid Leaks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .124
4.2.1 Leaking Syringe or Syringe Valve Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .124
4.2.2 Leaking Drain Line Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125
4.2.3 Leaking Inject Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125
4.2.4 Leaking Fitting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125
4.2.5 Broken Liquid Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125
4.3 Condensation on Well Plate Covers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .126
5•Service
5.1 Replacement Tubing and Fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .127
5.1.1 Syringe and Reservoir Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .127
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5.1.2 Assemblies, Tubing, and Fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
5.2 Resetting the Usage Counters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
5.2.1 Resetting a Usage Counter on the AS Wellness Panel . . . . . . 130
5.2.2 Resetting a Usage Counter on the Usage Log Screen . . . . . . 131
5.3 Replacing the Sample or Prep Syringe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
5.3.1 Removing the Existing Syringe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
5.3.2 Filling the New Syringe and Removing Bubbles . . . . . . . . . . 134
5.3.3 Connecting the New Syringe and Flushing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
5.3.4 Initializing the Syringe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
5.3.5 Resetting the Syringe Usage Counter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
5.4 Replacing the Sampling Needle Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
5.4.1 Removing the Old Sampling Needle Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . 138
5.4.2 Installing the New Sampling Needle Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . 142
5.4.3 Resetting the Sampling Needle Assembly Usage Counter . . 145
5.5 Removing the Drip Tray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
5.6 Installing the Drip Tray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146
5.7 Replacing the Needle Seal Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
5.8 Aligning the Sampling Needle in the Inject Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
5.9 Calibrating the Inject Port Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155
5.10 Replacing the Leak Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161
5.11 Calibrating the Leak Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162
5.12 Removing the Sample or Prep Syringe Valve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164
5.13 Replacing the Sample Syringe Valve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
5.14 Replacing the Prep Syringe Valve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167
5.15 Replacing a Sample or Prep Syringe Pump Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
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5.16 Rebuilding the Injection or Diverter Valve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .170
5.17 Replacing the Well Plate Tray Thermal Pads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .172
5.18 Changing the Main Power Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173
A • Specifications
A.1 Autosampler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .175
A.1.1 Electrical. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .175
A.1.2 Environmental/Physical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .175
A.1.3 Valves (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176
A.1.4 Injection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176
A.2 Sample Temperature Control (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .177
B • Installation
B.1 Facility Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .179
B.2 Unpacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .180
B.3 Autosampler Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .186
B.3.1 Before You Begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .186
B.3.2 Installation Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .186
B.3.3 Connecting the Syringes and Drain Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .187
B.3.4 Connecting a Single Injection Valve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .191
B.3.5 Connecting Two Injection Valves (for Simultaneous
Injections) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .193
B.3.6 Connecting a Diverter Valve (for Sequential Injections) . . . . .197
B.3.7 Connecting a Second AS to a Dual ICS-3000 System . . . . . . .200
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B.3.8 Connecting the AS to Chromeleon or Chromeleon
Xpress (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203
B.3.9 Connecting the Power Cord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206
B.3.10 Turning On the Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207
B.3.11 Selecting Module Setup Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208
B.3.12 Configuring the AS in Chromeleon or Chromeleon Xpress . . 212
B.3.13 Priming the Liquid Lines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214
B.3.14 Removing Bubbles from the Syringe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218
B.4 Injection Valve Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
B.5 Setting Up Chromeleon or Chromeleon Xpress for Simultaneous
Injections 220
B.5.1 Assigning Unique Names to Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220
B.5.2 Creating Sequences, Programs, and Quantification Methods . 224
C • Display Screens
C.1 Menu of Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228
C.2 Main Status Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 229
C.3 Detail Status Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232
C.4 Method Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 236
C.4.1 Sample Prep Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 237
C.4.2 Method Setup Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 242
C.4.3 Timed Events Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 243
C.5 Schedule Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 245
C.6 Module Setup Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 247
C.6.1 Installed Options Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 247
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C.6.2 Front Panel Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .248
C.6.3 Plumbing Configuration Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .249
C.6.4 Time/Date Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .251
C.6.5 System Parameters Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .252
C.6.6 Inject Port Alignment Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .255
C.6.7 Door Interlock Bypass Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .256
C.7 Flush/Prime Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .257
C.8 Time Function In Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .259
C.9 Diagnostic Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260
C.9.1 Power-Up Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260
C.9.2 Diagnostic Tests Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .261
C.9.3 XYZ Test Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .262
C.9.4 Temperature Statistics Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .263
C.9.5 Liquid Control Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .264
C.9.6 Logs Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .267
C.9.7 Leak Sensor Calibration and Status Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .270
C.9.8 Keyboard Test Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .271
C.9.9 Code Versions Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .272
C.10 Time Function Out Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .272
D • Front Panel Control
D.1 Accessing AS Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .273
D.2 Entering or Changing Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .273
D.3 Running a Schedule of Injections from the Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . .274
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D.3.1 Selecting and Starting the Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275
D.3.2 Placing a Running Schedule on Hold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 276
D.3.3 Stopping a Running Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 276
D.4 Running Under Direct Control from the Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 277
D.5 Creating Methods from the AS Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 279
D.5.1 Creating a Method. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 279
D.5.2 Saving a Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 280
D.5.3 Defining Sample Prep Steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281
D.5.4 Selecting Method Setup Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 291
D.5.5 Defining Timed Events Steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 294
D.5.6 Editing a Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 297
D.5.7 Deleting a Method. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 297
D.5.8 Copying a Method. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 297
D.5.9 Example Method for Dilution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 298
D.6 Creating Schedules from the AS Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 298
D.6.1 Creating a New Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 299
D.6.2 Saving a Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 300
D.6.3 Selecting an Action if a Scheduled Vial Is Missing . . . . . . . . 300
D.6.4 Defining Schedule Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 301
D.6.5 Editing a Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 303
D.6.6 Deleting a Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 303
D.6.7 Copying a Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 303
D.7 Selecting Syringe Speeds for Front Panel Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . 304
D.8 Aligning the Sampling Needle from the AS Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . 306
D.9 Calibrating the Inject Port Volume from the AS Front Panel . . . . . . . 311
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AS Autosampler Operator’s Manual
E • TTL and Relay Control
E.1 TTL and Relay Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .317
E.1.1 Connecting a TTL or Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .318
E.1.2 Selecting TTL Input Control Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .319
E.2 Controlling TTL and Relay Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .321
E.2.1 Example TTL/Relay Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .322
F • Reordering Information
x Doc. 065051-03 1/08
1.1 Overview
The Dionex AS Autosampler precisely delivers from 1 to 8,000 μL of sample to
an injection valve. The injection volume range delivered by a particular AS
depends on the size of the sample syringe and the sampling mode.
Modes
Several sampling modes are available:
• In normal mode, sample is delivered to a single system and a sample loop is
installed on the injection valve.
• In concentrate mode, the AS delivers sample to a Dionex ultra-low pressure
concentrator column.
• In simultaneous mode, the AS can deliver sample to two independent ion
chromatography (IC) systems. Sample is delivered equally to the two IC
systems (50% of the volume to each). This mode requires the simultaneous
injection option.
1 • Introduction
• In sequential mode, a diverter valve allows sample to be delivered to two
independent channels or IC systems through sequential injections. This mode
requires the sequential injection option.
• In sequential concentrate mode, a diverter valve allows sample to be delivered
to two independent channels or IC systems on which Dionex ultra-low
pressure concentrator columns are installed.
Sample Temperature Control
The sample temperature control option provides uniform heating and cooling of
the vial tray.
Sample Preparation
The sample preparation option is used for automated dilutions and pipet functions.
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AS Autosampler Operator’s Manual
Injection Valve Options
The AS can be configured either without an injection valve, or with one or two
injection valves installed in the autosampler compartment.
Vials, Well Plates, and Sample Trays
The AS can sample from either vials or well plates. Several types of sample trays
are available to accommodate the various vial and well plate sizes. Insulated trays
are available for use with the sample temperature control option.
During sampling, the tray remains stationary and a sampling needle arm moves
from position to position. Up to 99 injections can be taken from each vial or well.
Control
The AS can be controlled locally, from the front panel keypad and display, or
remotely, with a personal computer running Windows
Chromeleon
or later), or Chromeleon Xpress (Release 1.0 or later). Limited remote control is
also available, using TTL and relay signals.
For communication between the AS and the software, the AS is connected to a
USB (Universal Serial Bus) port on the computer, USB hub, or other Dionex
module equipped with a USB hub.
® Chromatography Data Management System software (Release 6.7
® 2000 or Windows XP and
2 Doc. 065051-03 1/08
1.2 About This Manual
1 • Introduction
Chapter 1
Introduction
Chapter 2
Description
Chapter 3
Operation and
Maintenance
Chapter 4
Troubleshooting
Chapter 5
Service
Appendix A
Specifications
Appendix B
Installation
Appendix C
Display Screens
Appendix D
Front Panel Control
Introduces the AS; explains the conventions used in
this manual, including safety-related information.
Describes the AS operating features and system
components; provides the theory of operation.
Provides operating instructions for the AS and
describes routine preventive maintenance
procedures.
Lists problems and presents step-by-step
procedures for how to isolate and eliminate the
cause of each problem.
Provides step-by-step instructions for routine
service and parts replacement procedures that the
user can perform.
Lists the AS specifications and installation site
requirements.
Describes how to install the AS.
Describes the front panel operational and diagnostic
display screens.
Provides step-by-step instructions for operating the
AS from the front panel.
Appendix E
TTL and Relay Control
Appendix F
Reordering Information
NOTE For details about using Chromeleon or Chromeleon
Xpress to operate the AS, refer to the Chromeleon or
Chromeleon Xpress Help. If you are using Chromeleon
Xpress, also refer to the Chromeleon Xpress Quick
Reference Guide (P/N 065070), provided on the Dionex
Reference Library CD-ROM (P/N 053891).
Doc. 065051-03 1/08 3
Describes the AS TTL and relay control features.
Lists spare parts for the AS.
AS Autosampler Operator’s Manual
1.2.1 Safety Messages and Notes
This manual contains warnings and precautionary statements that can
prevent personal injury and/or damage to the AS when properly followed.
Safety messages appear in bold type and are accompanied by icons, as
shown below.
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may
result in minor or moderate injury. Also used to identify a situation or
practice that may seriously damage the instrument, but will not cause
injury.
Indicates that the function or process of the instrument may be
impaired. Operation does not constitute a hazard.
Messages d'avertissement en français
Signale une situation de danger immédiat qui, si elle n'est pas évitée,
entraînera des blessures graves à mortelles.
Signale une situation de danger potentiel qui, si elle n'est pas évitée,
pourrait entraîner des blessures graves à mortelles.
Signale une situation de danger potentiel qui, si elle n'est pas évitée,
pourrait entraîner des blessures mineures à modérées. Également
utilisé pour signaler une situation ou une pratique qui pourrait
gravement endommager l'instrument mais qui n'entraînera pas de
blessures.
4 Doc. 065051-03 1/08
1 • Introduction
Warnhinweise in Deutsch
Bedeutet unmittelbare Gefahr. Mißachtung kann zum Tod oder
schwerwiegenden Verletzungen führen.
Bedeutet eine mögliche Gefährdung. Mißachtung kann zum Tod oder
schwerwiegenden Verletzungen führen.
Bedeutet eine mögliche Gefährdung. Mißachtung kann zu kleineren
oder mittelschweren Verletzungen führen. Wird auch verwendet, wenn
eine Situation zu schweren Schäden am Gerät führen kann, jedoch
keine Verletzungsgefahr besteht.
Notes
Informational messages also appear throughout this manual. These are
labeled NOTE and are in bold type:
NOTE NOTES call attention to certain information. They alert
you to an unexpected result of an action, suggest how to
optimize instrument performance, etc.
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AS Autosampler Operator’s Manual
1.3 Safety and Regulatory Information
The AS is designed for IC (ion chromatography) and HPLC (high-performance
liquid chromatography) applications and should not be used for any other
purpose. Operation of an AS in a manner not specified by Dionex may result in
personal injury.
1.3.1 Safety Labels
The TUV GS and cTUVus Mark safety labels and the CE Mark label on
the AS indicate that the AS is in compliance with the following standards:
EN 61010-1:2001 (safety), CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 1010.1-92 + A2:97
(safety), UL 61010C-1:2002 R8.02 (safety), and EN 61326:1997,
including A1:1998 and A2:2001 (EMC susceptibility and immunity).
The symbols below appear on the AS or on AS labels.
Alternating current
Protective conductor terminal (earth ground)
Power supply is on
Power supply is off
Indicates a potential hazard. Refer to the operator’s manual for
an explanation of the hazard and how to proceed.
6 Doc. 065051-03 1/08
2.1 Overview of Features
Figure 2-1 illustrates the main features of the AS Autosampler.
Flush
Reservoir
2 • Description
Sample and
Prep Syringes
Front
Panel
Autosampler
Compartment
Power
Switch
Figure 2-1. AS Operating Features
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AS Autosampler Operator’s Manual
Front Panel
The front panel contains a liquid crystal display (LCD) and membrane keypad
(see Section 2.2
Power Switch
The power switch is in the lower left corner of the AS. The switch functions only
when the door is fully closed.
Autosampler Compartment
The autosampler compartment contains a stationary sample tray and an XYZ
sampling needle arm that moves from vial to vial during operation (see
Section 2.3
port. Valves for sample injection or for diverting sample flow to different systems
can optionally be included.
Syringe and Reservoir Organizer
The organizer on top of the autosampler holds the sample syringe, the flush liquid
reservoir, and the optional prep syringe and reagent reservoirs. See Section 2.3.1
for details.
). The front panel permits manual control of AS functions.
). The compartment also contains an inject port, flush port, and waste
Options
• Sample Preparation: When this option is installed, the AS can perform
sample preparation functions such as diluting standards or dispensing
reagents. See Section 2.3.1
for details.
• Sample Temperature Control (not pictured): When this option is installed,
the AS provides uniform heating and cooling of the sample tray. See
Section 2.3.7
for details.
• Simultaneous Injection (not pictured): When this option is installed, the AS
can deliver sample to two independent ion chromatography (IC) systems
simultaneously. See Section 3.6.9
for details.
• Sequential Injection (not pictured): When this option is installed, the AS can
deliver sample to two independent ion chromatography (IC) systems
alternately.
• Concentrator Injection (not pictured): When this option is installed, the AS
can load sample to a Dionex ultra-low pressure concentrator column. See
Section 2.3.10 for details.
8 Doc. 065051-03 1/08
Valve Options
One or two injection valves can be installed in the AS autosampler compartment.
Or, the AS can be configured without an injection valve and instead be connected
to one or two valves installed in other chromatography system modules. Two
injection valves are required for simultaneous injections.
For the sequential injection option, a diverter valve is installed in the AS.
2.2 Front Panel Features
2 • Description
Adjust screen contrast
Figure 2-2. AS Front Panel
Information is displayed on the LCD, or screen. To adjust the screen contrast, use
the knurled knob in the recess below the keypad (see Figure 2-2
).
From the keypad, you can:
• Directly control AS operation
• Create and modify programmed series of operating steps, called methods
• Create and modify programmed series of injections, called schedules
Refer to Section 2.2.2
Doc. 065051-03 1/08 9
for a summary of how to select screens and edit parameters.
AS Autosampler Operator’s Manual
(
)
2.2.1 Keypad Button Functions
Button Function
Stop
Stops a schedule if the AS is in Local mode, Schedule control (see
Section 2.5.1
). A confirmation message appears; press Stop again to
abort the schedule or Hold/Run to resume.
If the AS is in Direct Control (see Section 2.5.1
the current syringe and/or sampling arm movement.
Note: Pressing Stop while the AS is in Direct Control, Locked
Remote mode (software control) (see Section 2.5.2
recommended. Use the controls on the software Control panel (see
Section 2.5.2
) to stop a sequence.
), pressing Stop stops
) is not
Home
Insert
Delete
(Hold)
Run
Sends the needle arm to its home position. This button functions only
when the AS is in Local mode. If a schedule is in progress, it must be
on hold. If you press Home when a schedule is on hold, and then
resume the schedule, the needle arm returns to the location it was in
when you pressed Home.
Inserts a new step into a method or schedule. Move the cursor to the
leftmost field on the
SAMPLE PREP, TIMED EVENTS, or SCHEDULE
screen and press Insert. The new step is added above the cursor
position. See Appendix D
for details about front panel operation.
Delete performs several functions:
• Cancels an entry that is in progress and restores the previous value.
• Returns a field to its default value (if an entry is not in progress).
• Deletes a line in a method or schedule. To do this, position the
cursor in the leftmost field of the line that you want to delete and
press Delete twice.
• Deletes an entire method or schedule. To do this, position the
cursor in the method or schedule edit field, or in the time field of
the
INIT step, and press Delete twice.
At power-up, the AS is on hold (the left LED is illuminated). After you
select a schedule to run, pressing Hold/Run starts the schedule (the
right LED is illuminated). When the schedule is complete, the AS
returns to hold. When running, press Hold/Run to pause the schedule.
This button functions only when the AS is in Local mode.
Note: If the wait operation is enabled (see Section 2.7.1
pauses when it reaches the wait step in the method. Press Hold/Run to
continue. You can disable the wait (see Section 2.7.4
), the AS
).
10 Doc. 065051-03 1/08
Button Function
If you press the Door button when a sequence (or front panel
Door
schedule) is running, a message screen indicates whether it is currently
safe to open the door. If it is, the screen displays for how much longer it
is safe to open the door. Opening the door without first pressing this
button, or when the message indicates it is not safe, ends the currently
running sequence (or schedule).
Select
The Select buttons scroll through predetermined options in entry
fields. To confirm the selected value, press Enter or move out of the
field by pressing a cursor arrow button. In fields that have
Select
predetermined numeric choices, Select Δ increases the value by one
unit and Select ∇ decreases the value by one. Holding down a Select
button increases (or decreases) the value continuously.
The arrow buttons move the cursor in the direction of the arrow to the
next entry field (if one exists). At the end of a line, the left arrow wraps
the cursor around to the next entry field on the line above; the right
arrow wraps the cursor to the next entry field on the line below. The up
and down arrows do not wrap around.
2 • Description
The autosampler door must remain closed during
operation. If the door is opened during operation,
the sampling arm stops immediately. If a sequence
(or schedule) is running, it is ended. If you want to
open the door during a sequence (or schedule),
first press the Door button, and then follow the onscreen instructions.
After entering a new value in an entry field, pressing an arrow button
saves and/or executes the change.
Displays a help screen specific to the current entry field.
Help
Displays a list of the available screens.
Menu
1
The numeric buttons enter the selected number into the current entry
field. On a menu, pressing a numeric button opens the corresponding
screen.
Enter
Doc. 065051-03 1/08 11
Saves and/or executes changes made in entry fields. If a menu screen is
displayed, pressing Enter opens the highlighted screen.
AS Autosampler Operator’s Manual
g
2.2.2 Display Screens
The LCD displays status information and allows access to all AS
operations.
When the power is turned on, the AS performs an initialization sequence
(see Section 3.1.1
is an example of the
) and then displays the MAIN STATUS screen. Figure 2-3
MAIN STATUS screen during AS operation.
1
8
9
VOL
8
9
20.013
METHOD: 01
SCH LINE
11
Time since last injection
Volume to be injected
Current method
Control mode
Current s chedule
Schedule line currently in
progress
10
1
121113
min
uL
8
INJ#
2
10 10.6
3
/
6
°C
↑
20
7
status
m ode
VIAL#
5
TRAY:
LOCAL
Help Prompt
Operating status
1
Current vial or well
2
3
Current injection
Total injections s cheduled
4
for this vial
Current tray temperature
5
Tray temperature
6
(increasing)
Operatin
7
LOADING LOOP
TIME
4
10
12
13
Figure 2-3. Main Status Screen
NOTE TRAY temperature is displayed only when the
sample temperature control option is installed.
12 Doc. 065051-03 1/08
2 • Description
To access other AS screens:
Press the Menu button. The MENU of SCREENS appears (see Figure 2-4).
MENU of SCREENS
FLUSH/PRIME
MAIN STATUS
1
DETAIL STATUS
2
METHOD MENU
3
SCHEDULE
4
MODULE SETUP MENU
5
Help Prompt
Figure 2-4. Menu of Screens
To select a screen on the menu, use one of the following methods:
6
TIME FUNCTION IN
7
DIAGNOSTIC MENU
8
9
TIME FUNCTION OUT
• Press the keypad numeric button corresponding to the screen’s
number on the menu.
• Move the cursor to highlight the screen number and press Enter.
To display a brief description of each screen:
Press the Help button. See Appendix C for details about each screen.
To edit a field on the screen:
1. Press a cursor arrow button to position the cursor in the field to be
edited. Fields that are in reverse video (blue letters on white
background) can be edited. Other fields display information only.
2. If the field accepts numeric values, press the desired numeric buttons
to enter the value.
If the field has predetermined options, press the
Select Δ or Select ∇
button to choose the desired option.
3. To confirm the selected value, press
Enter or move the cursor out of
the field by pressing an arrow button.
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AS Autosampler Operator’s Manual
2.3 Autosampler Compartment
3
5
Prep Syringe
1
(Optional)
1
2
4
Sample
2
2
Syringe
Reagent
3
3
Reservoir
(Optional)
Flush
4
Reservoir
XYZ Sampling
5
Needle Arm
Flush, Waste,
6
and Inject Ports
6
7
8
Figure 2-5. Autosampler Compartment Features
Injection and/or
Diverter Valves
7
(Optional)
Sample Tray
8
(for Vials or
Well Plates)
14 Doc. 065051-03 1/08
2.3.1 Syringe and Reservoir Organizer
The organizer on top of the autosampler holds the sample syringe, 1 L
flush reservoir, and the optional prep syringe and reagent reservoirs (see
Figure 2-5
Sample Syringe Functions
).
The sample syringe performs these operations:
• Pipettes liquid from one vial to another or to waste.
• Mixes a vial by repeatedly drawing and expelling the vial contents. If
AS is equipped with the sample preparation option, mixing is done
the
with the sample prep syringe instead of the sample syringe.
• Delivers sample to the injection valve.
The following sample syringe volumes are available:
2 • Description
Sample Syringe
Vol ume
100 μL 055064
250 μL (standard) 053916
500 μL 055065
1,000 μL 055066
5 mL* 053915
10 mL* 055068
*A 5 or 10 mL syringe is required for simultaneous
injections and optional for all other sampling modes. If a
5 or 10 mL syringe is installed, an 8.5 mL sampling
needle assembly (P/N 061267) is required.
Part Number
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AS Autosampler Operator’s Manual
Sample Preparation Option Functions
The AS can be equipped with a sample preparation option that includes a
sample prep syringe, a sample prep valve, and one 250 mL reagent
reservoir. Up to three additional reagent reservoirs can be configured.
The sample prep syringe performs these operations:
• Dispenses reagents from external reservoirs to any vial
• Mixes a vial by repeatedly drawing and expelling the vial contents
• Performs dilutions, allowing preparation of multilevel calibration
standards
• Performs liquid-liquid extractions by adjusting the height of the
needle in the vial
The following sample prep syringe volumes are available:
Prep Syringe Volume Part Number
250 μL 053916
500 μL 055065
1,000 μL 055066
2.5 mL 055067
5 mL (standard) 053915
10 mL 055068
The reagent reservoir connects to port A on the sample prep valve.
Additional reservoirs can be connected to ports B, C, and D. Commands
from the AS front panel screens or from Chromeleon or Chromeleon
Xpress let you select the reservoirs.
NOTE The 5 mL and 10 mL syringes are intended for most
sample prep functions. Use the smaller syringes only
for applications that require low flow rates.
NOTE The 2.5 mL syringe (P/N 055067) can only be used
with the sample preparation option. It cannot be
used as a sample syringe.
16 Doc. 065051-03 1/08
2.3.2 Sampling Needle Arm
The autosampler door must remain closed during operation. If you
open the door during operation, the sampling arm stops immediately.
If a schedule is running, it is ended. To safely open the door during a
schedule, press the Door button. See Section 3.9 for details.
During operation, the sampling needle arm moves the sample needle
along X-, Y-, and Z-axes. The sample tray remains stationary throughout
the sampling process.
To sample from a vial or well plate, the arm moves to the specified
position in the tray and lowers the needle into the vial or well. The
sampling needle pierces the vial cap or well plate cover to allow fluid to
be drawn or delivered. When sampling is complete, the arm raises the
needle out of the vial or well. When running a schedule of injections, vials
or wells can be sampled in any order.
The needle height (the distance from the tip of the needle to the bottom of
the vial or well) can be adjusted, allowing operations such as liquid-liquid
extraction.You can set the needle height in a Chromeleon or Chromeleon
Xpress program (see Section 3.2.2
page 292
).
2 • Description
) or in a front panel program (see
NOTE Changing the needle height is not recommended
when sampling from a micro-well well plate,
because the well depth is shallow. You can adjust the
needle height in a deep-well well plate as required,
provided the needle remains submerged in sample.
This ensures accurate sample aspiration.
During a flush operation, the sampling needle arm delivers flush fluid to
the flush port (see Figure 2-7
Doc. 065051-03 1/08 17
).
AS Autosampler Operator’s Manual
S
eedle
A
y
2.3.3 Sampling Needle Assembly
The sampling needle assembly consists of a PEEK™ sampling needle and
a line, which connects the sample syringe and the sampling needle (see
Figure 2-6
).
ample Syringe
Valve
A
F
E
D
Sample
Syringe
B
C
Sampling
Needle
ssembl
Flush Reservoir
Sampling
N
Figure 2-6. Sample Syringe with Sampling Needle Assembly
Two assemblies are available (see the table below).
Sampling Needle
Assembly
PEEK Needle with
1.2 mL line
PEEK Needle with
8.5 mL line
a
a. The 8.5 mL sampling needle assembly is standard when the AS is
configured with the simultaneous injection option.
18 Doc. 065051-03 1/08
Used With Part Number
Sample syringe volumes
054271
1mL or less
Sample syringe volumes
061267
greater than 1 mL
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