DSC Autosampler Manual - TKE · 2015-09-07 · TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLER I DSC Autosampler Operator’s Manual PN 925616.001 Rev. F (Text and Binder) PN 925616.002 Rev. F (Text

TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLER I

DSCAutosampler

Operator’s Manual

PN 925616.001 Rev. F (Text and Binder)PN 925616.002 Rev. F (Text Only)Issued November 1999

Thermal Analysis & Rheology

A SUBSIDIARY OF WATERS CORPORATION

109 Lukens Drive New Castle, DE 19720

TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLERII

© 1996, 1998, 1999 by TA Instruments, Inc.109 Lukens DriveNew Castle, DE 19720

Notice

The material contained in this manual is believedadequate for the intended use of this instrument.If the instrument or procedures are used forpurposes other than those specified herein,confirmation of their suitability must be obtainedfrom TA Instruments. Otherwise, TA Instru-ments does not guarantee results and assumesno obligation or liability. This publication is not alicense to operate under, or a recommendation toinfringe upon, any process patents.

TA Instruments Operating Software, Instrument,Data Analysis, and Utility Software and theirassociated manuals are proprietary and copy-righted by TA Instruments, Inc. Purchasers aregranted a license to use these software programson the module and controller with which theywere purchased. These programs may not beduplicated by the purchaser without the priorwritten consent of TA Instruments. Eachlicensed program shall remain the exclusiveproperty of TA Instruments, and no rightslicenses are granted to the purchaser other thanas specified.

TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLER III

Table of Contents

Notes, Cautions, and Warnings ............... ix

Safety ............................................................. x

Autosampler Safety Labels ..................... x

Operation Safety .................................... xi

Using This Manual ................................... xii

CHAPTER 1: Introducing the DSCAutosampler ............................................. 1-1

Overview .................................................... 1-3

General Features ........................................ 1-4

Relationship to the System ......................... 1-7

Description .................................................. 1-9

The Turret Assembly ........................ 1-10

The Gripper Fingers .......................... 1-11

The Sample Tray ............................... 1-12

The Keypad ....................................... 1-13

The Display ....................................... 1-19

The GPIB .......................................... 1-19

System and Equipment Requirements....... 1-20

Terminology ............................................. 1-22

TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLERIV

Table of Contents(continued)

Axis Terms ............................................... 1-23

Testing Terminology ........................... 1-25

CHAPTER 2: Preparingthe Autosampler ....................................... 2-1

Introduction ................................................. 2-3

Preparing for Operation .............................. 2-4

Connecting theHeat Exchanger Cable ......................... 2-4

Installing the Autosampler Lids ............ 2-7

Installing the Dust Cover ...................... 2-8

After Preparation ........................................ 2-9

CHAPTER 3: Using theAutosampler in Manual Mode ............... 3-1

Overview .................................................... 3-3

Starting the Autosampler ............................ 3-4

Switching from Automaticto Manual Mode ................................... 3-5

Understanding theConfidence Tests.................................. 3-6

TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLER V


Moving the Turret Assembly ...................... 3-7

The Motion Keys .................................. 3-8

Changing the Motor Speed ................... 3-9

Covering and Uncoveringthe DSC Cell ............................................. 3-10

Loading and Unloading Sample Pans ........ 3-11

Loading Pans ...................................... 3-11

Unloading Pans ................................... 3-13

Stopping the Autosampler ......................... 3-15

The HALT Key .................................. 3-15

The RESUME Key ............................ 3-16

The RESET SAMPLER Key ............ 3-16

Conditions When Resetting .......... 3-18

CHAPTER 4: Calibratingthe Autosampler ....................................... 4-1

Overview .................................................... 4-3

Precalibration Checklist ........................ 4-8

Performing the Calibration .......................... 4-9

Calibrating the Cell Lid Positions ........ 4-11

TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLERVI


Calibrating the Cell Pan Positions....... 4-15

Calibrating the Lid Storage Positions.. 4-21

Calibrating the Sample Tray ............... 4-24

Checking Your Calibration ........................ 4-28

The LOAD/LIDS Test ....................... 4-29

The Verify Test .................................. 4-33

The Cycle Pans Test .......................... 4-34

CHAPTER 5: Preparing Samples ........ 5-1

Overview .................................................... 5-3

Installing the Crimping Die .......................... 5-4

Setting Up the Sample Tray ........................ 5-9

Autosampler Run Capacity ................. 5-10

Reuse of Pans ..................................... 5-11

Order of Runs ..................................... 5-12

Pan Metal and Type ........................... 5-13

Preparing Sample Pans ............................. 5-14

Preparing Crimped Pans ..................... 5-19

Preparing Hermetic Pans.................... 5-24

TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLER VII


CHAPTER 6: Diagnostics ..................... 6-1

Using the Confidence Test Ready Light ..... 6-3

Testing Autosampler Functions ................... 6-6

The Cycle Lids Test ............................. 6-7

The Cycle Pans Test ............................ 6-8

The Sensors Test .................................. 6-9

The Rear Switches Test ..................... 6-15

The Keyboard Test ............................ 6-16

The GPIB Test ................................... 6-17

The Display Test ................................ 6-18

The Motion Test ................................. 6-19

The Cycle A�B Test .......................... 6-20

Error Messages ......................................... 6-22

Other Error Messages ........................ 6-22

Messages on theAutosampler Dispaly .......................... 6-23

Fatal Error Messages................... 6-23Nonfatal Error Messages............. 6-27

TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLERVIII


Error Messages onthe Controller Screen.......................... 6-46

Appendix A: Parts Lists &Ordering Information ............................. A-1

Index ........................................................... I-1

TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLER IX

Notes, Cautions,and Warnings

This manual uses notes, cautions, and warningsto emphasize important and critical instructions.

Highlights important information about equip-ment or procedures.

Emphasizes a procedure that may damageequipment or cause loss of data if not followedcorrectly.

Indicates a procedure that may be hazardousto the operator or the environment if notfollowed correctly.

!WARNING

NOTE:

t CAUTION:

TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLERX

Safety

AutosamplerSafety Labels

NEVER touch the surface of the metal exterior cancovering the DSC cell when the Autosampler isoperating. It can become very hot.

NEVER open the Autosampler rear electronicscabinet. Its contents should be serviced by author-ized service personnel only. No user-serviceableparts are contained within the electronics enclosure,and hazardous voltages are present within.

NEVER put your fingers in the Autosampler�s pathwhen the turret assembly is moving. The gripperfingers are made of fine wire and could scratch orpierce your skin.

TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLER XI

Operation Safety

� ALWAYS handle the DSC cell lids andsample pans with tweezers; they canbecome very hot.

� ALWAYS keep your compressed air hosessecurely fastened to the lab bench (e.g., useclamps or tape). Sudden increases inpressure can cause the hoses to fly off thecounter.

� NEVER leave flammable items (e.g., liquids,paper) around the Autosampler work area,especially during unattended runs. Should ahot lid or pan be dropped accidentally, thiscould create a fire hazard.

� NEVER open the DSC cell when it is at atemperature of 200oC or higher; this cancause the cell to oxidize.

� NEVER store hot lids (>100oC) on theAutosampler console cover.

� NEVER try to move the turret assembly bypushing it with your hand. This could causemechanical damage and calibration errors.

� NEVER slide the Autosampler console tothe right while the Autosampler is in use.

� Review the safety notes in your instrumentOperator�s Manual.

� Review the safety notes in the LNCAOperator�s Manual or RCS addendum, ifthat option is installed.

TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLERXII

Using This Manual

Chapter 1 Introduces you to thepurpose and features ofthe DSC Autosampler,lists system requirements,and explains the terminol-ogy used in this manual.

Chapter 2 Explains how to preparethe DSC Autosamplersystem for operation.

Chapter 3 Describes how to use theAutosampler�s manualkeyboard to move theturret assembly and loadand unload the cell.

Chapter 4 Provides the calibrationprocedures necessary forall new DSC Auto-samplers, with guidelinesfor periodic calibrationchecks.

Chapter 5 Explains how to install thecrimping die, providesguidelines for setting upthe Autosampler tray, anddescribes how to preparecrimped and hermeticpans for Autosampleroperation.

TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLER XIII

Using This Manual(continued)

Chapter 6 Describes the diagnostictests you can run from theDSC Autosamplerkeyboard and lists control-ler and Autosampler errormessages.

Appendix Lists the DSC Autosam-pler part numbers and TAInstruments offices andphone numbers forordering and service.

Index Lists the page numbers ofimportant topics for yourreference.

TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLERXIV

1–1TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLER

CHAPTER 1: Introducing the DSCAutosampler

Overview .................................................... 1-3

General Features ........................................ 1-4

Relationship to the System ......................... 1-7

Description .................................................. 1-9

The Turret Assembly ........................ 1-10

The Gripper Fingers .......................... 1-11

The Sample Tray ............................... 1-12

The Keypad ....................................... 1-13

The Display ....................................... 1-19

The GPIB .......................................... 1-19

System and Equipment Requirements....... 1-20

Terminology ............................................. 1-22

Axis Terms ......................................... 1-23

Testing Terminology ........................... 1-25

Introducing the DSC Autosampler

TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLER1–2


OverviewYour TA Instruments DSC Autosampler is afour-axis robotic device that automatically loadssample and reference pans to and from theDifferential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC) thermalanalysis instrument. The Autosampler willdetect the presence of a single or dual samplecell and adjust its actions and displays accord-ingly. Once the Autosampler loads the pans andcovers the DSC cell, the controller takes overand runs a preprogrammed thermal analysisexperiment on your samples. The Autosamplerthen uncovers the cell and unloads the pans.You can set up a series of these experimentsand leave them to be executed unattended.

Overview



General FeaturesThe following features make the DSC Autosam-pler a unique and flexible tool:

� The Autosampler makes decisions based oncurrent system status, operator-directedparameters, and computer-directedinstructions.

� The mechanical fingers that grip the samplepans and cell lids enable the Autosampler tohandle objects weighing from milligrams totens of grams with more reliability thanvacuum-grip systems. Open pans can behandled as safely as closed pans with theAutosampler�s tactile-feedback gripperfingers. The tactile-feedback programmingalso detects improperly gripped or droppedobjects and prevents the grippers frompuncturing the floor of the DSC cell furnace.

� The Autosampler can be operatedautomatically through the TA controller ormanually through its own keypad. Undermanual operation, you can directly controlturret movement to calibrate and test theAutosampler, while automatic operation(using Thermal Solutions/Advantage)offers the benefits of preprogrammed runsthat can be left to execute overnight.

� If you have the multi-instrument optioninstalled on your controller, you are free torun other instruments (e.g., TGA, DMA,TMA) while the Autosampler takes care ofDSC operations for you. The Autosamplerhas no effect on any other instrument


connected to the controller. You can alsoconnect two or more Autosamplers to thecontroller to work with two or more DSCs.

� The Autosampler can change bothreference and sample pans.

� Preprogrammed series of runs, called ASrun sequences, can be created easilythrough the Instrument Control software.Once you have created an AS runsequence, you can edit it and save it on disk.You can even change parts of an AS runsequence as it is being run.

� Up to 62 DSC runs can be preprogrammedon the controller.

� The Autosampler�s accuracy of panplacement (+ 0.008 inches) is more reliableand repeatable than human operation.

� The sample/reference pan storage tray hasroom for 62 pans and can be removed fromthe Autosampler for easy loading. A plasticlid is provided for safe carrying. The orderof samples used for each experiment iscompletely up to you and need not follow theorder of pans in the Autosampler tray.

� The Autosampler operates with crimped,hermetic, and open pans to support a widevariety of thermal analysis experiments.

� The Autosampler can be used with the fullrange of thermal analysis temperatureprofiles currently used in manualexperiments (depending upon the coolingaccessory installed).

General Features



� The AS run sequence ensures that the DSCcell is within a safe load temperature range(10 to 100oC) at the beginning of each runby using compressed ambient air to rapidlycool or warm the DSC cell as needed. Youcan further narrow this temperature range ifyou wish when you create your AS runsequence.

� The Autosampler log keeps a record of allcontroller and Autosampler activities so thatyou can review operations even after theyare performed.

� The Autosampler runs a series ofdiagnostics tests at power-up andcontinuously during operation to ensure thatall mechanical and electrical components areoperating properly.


Relationshipto the System

The DSC Autosampler is part of a systemconsisting of the TA Instruments controller and a2910 or 2920 DSC instrument (see Figure 1.1).

Figure 1.1Schematic Diagram ofthe DSC Autosampler System

The TA Instruments LNCA (Liquid NitrogenCooling Accessory) and RCS (RefrigeratedCooling System) can be used for cooling experi-ments with the Autosampler (see Figures 1.2 and1.3 on the next page).

DSC with theAUTOSAMPLER

ELECTRICAL CABLEPNEUMATIC TUBE

GPIBCONTROLLER

15 TO 120 PSILAB AIR

CELL

Relationship to the System



Figure 1.2Autosampler System with LNCA

Figure 1.3Autosampler System with RCS


GPIB

15 TO 120 PSILAB AIR

CELL

LNCAUmbilical

ELECTRICAL CABLEPNEUMATIC TUBE

LNCA

Coolant Line


GPIB

CELL

CONTROLLER

RCSUmbilical

Event Cable

RCS

Gas Connections


DescriptionThe DSC Autosampler consists of a turretassembly, a sample tray, an operator�s keypad,and a display screen in an assemby that mountson the instrument (see Figures 1.4 and 1.5).

The functions of the DSC instrument keypad and displaywill not change when the Autosampler is mounted. Seethe appropriate DSC Operator's Manual for information.

Figure 1.4The DSC Autosamplerwith LNCA Heat Exchanger

Figure 1.5DSC Autosampler withan RCS Environmental Chamber

Description

NOTE:



The Turret Assembly

Three stepper motors move the turret assemblythrough its three major axes of motion (seeFigure 1.6). Rotary stepper motors rotate theturret assembly in the clockwise or counter-clockwise direction (along the q-axis) and movethe turret arm in and out (along the r-axis). Alinear stepper motor moves the turret up or down(along the z-axis). A fourth, linear motor is usedto activate the gripper fingers.

Figure 1.6The DSC Autosampler�sThree Major Axes of Motion

Z-AXIS

Q-AXIS

R-AXIS


The Gripper Fingers

The Autosampler�s gripper fingers (see Figure1.7) open and close to firmly grasp each samplepan while not disturbing the material in the pan.They are made of conductive stainless steel andare controlled by tactile-feedback sensors thatdetect improperly gripped or dropped objects.

Figure 1.7The DSC AutosamplerGripper Fingers

Description



The Sample Tray

The sample tray is constructed of anodizedaluminum and has a clear acrylic cover (seeFigure 1.8). It holds up to 62 pans. Chapter 5describes how to set up the sample tray.

Figure 1.8The DSC AutosamplerSample Tray

TRAY

LID


The Keypad

The DSC Autosampler keypad operates inde-pendently of the DSC keypad (see your DSCOperator's Manual for details on its keypad).The Autosampler keypad consists of four typesof keys (see Figure 1.9):

� Autosampler control keys:

ENTER MANUAL/AUTOMATICESCAPE/CLEAR RESET SAMPLERHALT RESUME

� Command keys, which tell the Autosamplerto execute a series of movements, rundiagnostic tests, and so on:

AIR LOADCALIBRATE SPEEDLIDS TEST

� Motion keys, which move the turretassembly in the direction indicated on thekey:

EXTEND RETRACTGRIP RELEASERAISE LOWERROTATE CW ROTATE CCW

� Numeric entry keys.

Description



Figure 1.9The DSCAutosampler Keypad

Some of the Autosampler keys have dualassignments:

� Commands (white keys) or motion directions(blue keys) are shown on the upper half ofthe dual-assignment keys.

� Numeric entries are shown on the lower halfof the keys.

The current assignment of the dual-assignmentkeys is determined by the stage of operation ofthe Autosampler. The numeric entry function isactive only when the Autosampler is requestingnumeric input; otherwise, the command ordirection on the upper half of the key is active.

The DSC Autosampler keys are explained inalphabetical order in Table 1.1 (pages 1-15 to 1-18). The motion keys are grouped into one entryentitled �The Motion Keys.�

Raise Release

Escape

Enter

RetractLower

TestRe-sume

Rotate CW Extend

Rotate CCW

AirHalt

Calibrate

Load Lids

Automatic

Manual

Speed

Grip

ResetSampler

Clear


NOTE:

Description

Except for the HALT and RESET SAMPLER keys, theAutosampler keypad is operable only when the Auto-sampler is in manual mode (see Chapter 3).

Table 1.1The Autosampler Keys

Key Description

CALIBRATE Enables you to calibratepan, lid, and tray positionson the Autosampler (seeChapter 4).

ENTER Enters numeric responses,selects items from amenu, and stores calibra-tion positions.

ESCAPE/ Terminates any Autosam-CLEAR pler keypad entry or

command in progress.

The current assignment ofthis key depends on thestage of operation of theAutosampler:

� When you haveselected one of theAutosampler com-mand keys (CALI-BRATE, LIDS,LOAD, SPEED, orTEST), you cancancel the commandand return to theprevious command

(table continued)



ESCAPE/CLEAR(cont'd)

Table 1.1The Autosampler Keys(cont�d)

Key Description

by pressing theESCAPE/CLEARkey. In this case, theESCAPE function isactive.

� When numeric input isrequested (indicatedby blinking cursor),you can clear thecurrent entry bypressing the ES-CAPE/CLEAR key.In this case, theCLEAR function isactive.

HALT Provides two majorfunctions (see Chapter 3):

� Temporarily stopsAutosampler motionwithout canceling anyprior commands.

� Enables you to switchfrom automatic tomanual mode.

LIDS Covers or uncovers theDSC cell (see Chapter 3).

(table continued)



Key Description

LOAD Loads pans from theAutosampler tray to theDSC cell or unloads pansfrom the cell and returnsthem to the tray (seeChapter 3).

MANUAL/ Toggles the AutosamplerAUTOMATIC back and forth between

manual and automaticmodes (see Chapter 3).

Motion Moves the turret assemblyKey in the direction indicated

on the key (see Chapter3).

RESET Clears all commands andSAMPLER returns the Autosampler

to the home position (seeFigure 3.2). Also instructsthe Autosampler to�forget� the current lidand sample pan locations(see Chapter 3).

RESUME Resumes the previouscommand when theAutosampler has beenhalted with the HALT key(see Chapter 3).

(table continued)

Description




Key Description

SPEED Enables you to change thespeed of manual Auto-sampler movement (seeChapter 3). In automaticmode, the Autosampleroperates at preselectedspeeds depending on thefunction being performed.

TEST Runs diagnostic tests tocheck the Autosampler�scalibration, sensors,keypad, and etc. (seeChapter 6).


The Display

The Autosampler has a 32-character liquidcrystal display (see Figure 1.10). The screendisplays a blinking cursor whenever user input isrequested. The Autosampler's display is inde-pendent of the DSC instrument display (refer tothe DSC Operator's Manual for details on theinstrument display).

Figure 1.10Autosampler Screen

The GPIB

The GPIB (General Purpose Interface Bus) is atwo-way communications network consisting ofthe controller and the DSC instrument. Throughthe GPIB, the controller sends commands tocontrol the instrument and Autosampler, then theinstrument and Autosampler reply with data andstatus messages.

Description



System and EquipmentRequirements

The required equipment for the DSC Autosam-pler includes:

� A TA Instruments controller.

� A source of compressed, dry air (15 psiminimum, 120 psi maximum) for adjustingthe DSC cell temperature between runs.

� A DSC 2910 or 2920 thermal analysisinstrument (with a DSC Cooling Jacket).

� DSC sample pans (standard-autosampler orhermetic).

� The crimping die (included with the DSCAutosampler).

Optional components that can be included in theAutosampler system are:

� A nitrogen gas purge.

� An additional gas purge controlled by theTA Instruments Gas Switching Accessory.

� The TA Instruments Liquid NitrogenCooling Accessory (LNCA) equipped withan adapter for the DSC for cooling.experiments or Refrigerated Cooling System(RCS) equipped with environmentalchamber.


The Autosampler is considered an accessory item foran existing instrument and therefore does not affect thespace available for additional instruments on multi-instrument systems.

NOTE:

System and Equipment Requirements



TerminologyThe terms manual and automatic are usedthroughout this book to describe the DSCAutosampler�s two modes of operation. Inmanual mode, the Autosampler does not need tocommunicate with the controller and is controlleddirectly through its own keypad. In automaticmode, all Autosampler operations are supervisedby the controller (see the Thermal Solutions/Advantage User Reference Guide for informa-tion on the automatic mode). Once the Auto-sampler is in automatic mode, it can be in one oftwo states:

� Online (remote), in which the controller iscorrectly hooked up to the Autosampler andturned on.

� Offline (local), in which the controller is notconnected to the Autosampler or is turnedoff. When the Autosampler is offline, itcannot communicate with the controller.

When the Autosampler is in manual mode, youcan use the Autosampler keypad to:

� Calibrate the Autosampler

� Load and unload the DSC cell

� Remove and replace the lids on the DSCcell

� Run diagnostic tests.


When the Autosampler is in automatic mode,you can use the Thermal Analyst controllerkeyboard to:

� Input experimental parameters

� Create, edit, and execute Autosampler runsequences that automatically load samples,run methods, and unload samples at the endof the experiment

� Maintain a log that records all activities ofthe Autosampler.

Axis TermsThe terms r-axis, q-axis, and z-axis are used todescribe the three axes of motion of the Auto-sampler.

Inward and outward movement of the turret armoccurs along the r-axis:

Figure 1.11The R-Axis

Terminology



Rotational movement (clockwise and counter-clockwise) occurs along the q-axis (theta-axis):

Figure 1.12The q-Axis

Upward and downward movement occurs alongthe z-axis:

Figure 1.13The Z-Axis


Testing Terminolgy

The terms AS (Autosampler) run sequenceand run refer to the experiments that you set upto control the Autosampler motion and running ofthermal analysis methods.

A run is a single TA experiment that consists ofthe following events:

� Reference and sample pans are loaded intothe DSC cell furnace.

� The DSC furnace is covered with threemetal lids.

� A standard thermal analysis method isexecuted.

� The DSC cell is returned to a near-ambienttemperature.

� The DSC furnace is uncovered.

� The reference and sample pans areremoved from the DSC furnace.

An AS run sequence is a series of runs thatare executed consecutively. You create theserun sequences using the Thermal Solutions/Advantage software, see the User ReferenceGuide.

A thermal analysis method is a set of segmentsthat you create to control the operation of athermal analysis instrument (see your ThermalSolutions/Advantage User Reference Guidefor further details).

Terminology



TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLER 2–1

CHAPTER 2: Preparing theAutosampler

Introduction ................................................. 2-3

Preparing for Operation .............................. 2-4

Connecting theHeat Exchanger Cable ......................... 2-4

Installing the Autosampler Lids ............ 2-7

Installing the Dust Cover ...................... 2-8

After Preparation ........................................ 2-9

Preparing the Autosampler

2–2 TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLER


IntroductionWhen you purchase your Autosampler, it will beunpacked and set up by a TA Instrumentsrepresentative. This section contains certainprocedures that need to be performed occasion-ally as part of the Autosampler setup.

Once you have completed setting up yourAutosampler as directed in this chapter, you willneed to perform the calibration procedures,which are done while the accessory is in manualmode (see Chapter 3 for details on the manualmode).

Introduction



Preparing forOperation

Connecting theHeat Exchanger Cable

When you place the LNCA heat exchanger onthe DSC instrument with an Autosampler, youneed to connect the heat exchanger cable to theinstrument. The DSC 2920 is not a problembecause the Autosampler does not interfere withaccess to the outlet. However, the DSC 2910has the power outlet on the side where access isblocked by the Autosampler. (The LNCAOperator�s Manual contains more details oninstalling the heat exchanger.) To move theAutosampler out of the way and connect heatexchanger cable to the DSC 2910 instrument,perform the following steps:

1. Make sure that the DSC 2910 POWERswitch is in the off position.

2. Locate the release handle on the right side ofthe Autosampler console and pull up on thehandle (see Figure 2.1).

3. Holding onto the release handle, slide theconsole to the right.


Figure 2.1Autosampler ConsoleRelease Handle

4. Plug in the end of the heater exchangercable into the electrical assembly as shownin Figure 2.2.

Figure 2.2Plugging in theHeat Exchanger Cable

Preparing for Operation



5. When the procedure is complete, slide theconsole back to the left until you hear it clickinto place.


#1

#2

#3

Preparing for Operation

Installing theAutosampler Lids

When your Autosampler is unpacked, there willbe three different lids that are to be used when asample is placed into the cell. The lids aredifferent sizes and made of different materials.In order to ensure that the Autosampler operatescorrectly while picking up and placing each lid inthe appropriate place, you must make sure thatthey are installed in the proper location on theconsole. The lids are identified as follows:

Lid Number Size Material

#1 Small Silver (with ASstamped on it)

#2 Medium Stainless steel#3 Large Aluminum

Refer to the figure below (Figure 2.3) and placethe lids in their respective postions.

Figure 2.3AutosamplerLid Positions



Installing theDust Cover

The plastic dust cover that comes with theAutosampler should be in place whenever youleave the Autosampler to run a series ofsamples. This will prevent dust and dirt frominterfering with your experiments.

To put the dust cover on, simply insert the lip intothe slot on the right-hand side of the console andlower it down.

The dust cover is not used when you are using the RCSwith the environmental chamber on the Autosampler.

NOTE:


After PreparationNow that your Autosampler has been completelyinstalled and set up, you will need to calibrate itso that it will properly pick up and deposit pans.Calibration is done using the manual modefunctions, which are described in the nextchapter. If you need information on using themanual mode, turn to Chapter 3. If you areready to calibrate the Autosampler, turn toChapter 4.

After Preparation




CHAPTER 3: Using theAutosampler in Manual Mode

Overview .................................................... 3-3

Starting the Autosampler ............................ 3-4

Switching from Automaticto Manual Mode ................................... 3-5

Understanding theConfidence Tests .................................. 3-6

Moving the Turret Assembly ...................... 3-7

The Motion Keys .................................. 3-8

Changing the Motor Speed ................... 3-9

Covering and Uncoveringthe DSC Cell ............................................. 3-10

Loading and Unloading Sample Pans ........ 3-11

Loading Pans ...................................... 3-11

Unloading Pans ................................... 3-13

Stopping the Autosampler ......................... 3-15

The HALT Key .................................. 3-15

The RESUME Key ............................ 3-16

The RESET SAMPLER Key ............ 3-16

Conditions When Resetting .......... 3-18

Using the Autosampler in the Manual Mode



OverviewCertain procedures must be done with theAutosampler in manual mode. (See page 1-22for an explanation of the manual and automaticmodes.) When the DSC Autosampler is inmanual mode, it can be controlled by theAutosampler keypad. This chapter describes thefollowing manual mode procedures:

� Switching to manual mode

� Moving the turret assembly manually

� Covering and uncovering the DSC cell

� Loading and unloading pans

� Stopping Autosampler movement.

Other manual Autosampler operations aredescribed in different chapters of this manual.These include:

� Calibrating the Autosampler (Chapter 4)

� Running diagnostic tests (Chapter 6).

For complete information on using the automatic mode,refer to the Thermal Solutions/Advantage UserReference Guide.

NOTE:

Overview



Startingthe Autosampler

Follow these steps to start up the DSC instru-ment with the Autosampler:

Turn on the POWER switch on the DSCAutosampler. The Autosampler displays:

Confidence TestVersion x.x

then:

Copyright 1986TA Instruments, Inc

See page 3-6 for a discussion of the confidencetests. When the confidence tests are complete,the display reads:

Automatic ModeOffline

The Autosampler will go into automatic modeupon initial start up. To change to the manualmode follow the procedure on the next page.


Switching fromAutomatic to Manual Mode

1. Press the HALT key on the Autosamplerkeypad. The display reads:

Automatic ModeHalted

2. Press the MANUAL/AUTOMATIC key.The display reads:

Manual ModeIdle

The Autosampler is now in manual modeand is ready for a command from theAutosampler keypad. The display will read�Idle� until you press a key.

Starting the Autosampler



Understandingthe Confidence Tests

At power-up, the Autosampler runs a set of 13confidence tests to check its internal electronicsand memory, display, keypad, motors, andsensors. If a system that is critical to continuedoperation fails, the confidence tests stop and theAutosampler shuts down with an error messageon the display, unless the display itself fails thetest. If the display fails, it may remain blank ordisplay random letters and symbols. If theAutosampler test error is noncritical to theremaining tests, the confidence tests finish butthe last error message remains on the displayand the Autosampler does not go into an oper-able mode.

If a confidence test error message is displayed,see the �Error Messages� section in Chapter 6to determine the problem. If the display is notfunctional, you can use the confidence test readylight inside the instrument (viewed through thevents on the back of the instrument) to determinewhich test(s) detected an error (see �Using theConfidence Test Ready Light� on page 6-3).


Moving theTurret Assembly

The motion keys (see Figure 3.1) are used tomove the turret assembly in the direction indi-cated on the key. You can change the speed ofthe turret motion with the SPEED key. Themotion and SPEED keys are explained on thefollowing pages.

Figure 3.1The DSC AutosamplerMotion Keys

Moving the Turret Assembly



The Motion Keys

ROTATE (Rotate Clockwise)CW Moves the turret clock-

wise until the clockwiselimit is reached.

ROTATE (Rotate Counter-CCW clockwise) Moves the

turret counterclockwiseuntil the counterclock-wise limit is reached.

RAISE Raises the turret until theupper limit is reached.

LOWER Lowers the turret untilthe lower limit isreached.

EXTEND Extends the turret armoutward until the outerlimit is reached.

RETRACT Retracts the turret arminward until the innerlimit is reached.

RELEASE Opens the grippers torelease an object.

GRIP Closes the grippers tograsp an object.


Changing theMotor Speed

The SPEED key enables you to change thespeed of manual Autosampler movement. Thespeed you select applies only to the motion keys;when the Autosampler is executing commandsfrom the controller or one of the Autosamplercommand keys (LOAD, LIDS), the speed ispreset and is not affected by your selection.

1. Press the SPEED key. The Autosamplerdisplays the current speed. For example:

Motor Speed7 Selected

2. Select a new speed by pressing a numerickey from 0 to 9 then pressing ENTER. Thelowest speed is 0, 9 is highest, and 7 isdefault (automatically selected when youturn on the Autosampler).

Moving the Turret Assembly



Covering and Uncoveringthe DSC Cell

The LIDS key covers or uncovers the DSC cellwhen the Autosampler is in manual mode.

Do not remove lids exceeding 100oC from theDSC cell; they may damage the console.

1. Press the LIDS key. You are prompted toselect option 1 (Uncover) or 2 (Cover):

Uncover (1) orCover (2) ? 1

2. Select an option by pressing a numeric keythen pressing ENTER.

If you select option 1, the Autosampler uncoversthe cell and returns all cell lids to their storagepositions. If you select option 2, the Autosam-pler removes all lids from their storage positionsand places them on the cell.

If you select option 1 (Uncover) when all lids are in theirstorage positions or option 2 (Cover) when the lids arealready on the cell, the Autosampler ignores thecommand and goes back to idle mode.

t CAUTION:

NOTE:


Loading and UnloadingSample Pans

The LOAD key loads and unloads sample pansto and from the DSC cell when the Autosampleris in manual mode. If the lids are on the DSCcell, the Autosampler first removes them, thenperforms the load or unload function.

Do not unload the DSC cell when its tempera-ture is above 100oC.

Loading Pans

To load sample pans to the DSC cell in manualmode, follow these steps:

1. Press the LOAD key. You are prompted toselect option 1 (Load) or 2 (Unload):

Load (1) orUnload (2) ? 1

2. Select the Load option by pressing ENTER.You are then prompted to select which cellposition to load:

Load Ref (1) orSample (2) ? 1

t CAUTION:

Loading and Unloading Pans



3. Select a cell position (reference or sample)by pressing a numeric key then pressingENTER. You are then prompted to selectthe tray position to load from:

Sample PanNumber ? 1

4. Type a number between 1 and 62 then pressENTER. The Autosampler loads the pan tothe cell position you chose in step 3. If thereis already a pan in the cell position youselected, the Autosampler first returns thatpan to its original tray position, then loads thenew pan.


Unloading Pans

The LOAD key unloads pans that have beenloaded in automatic mode, manual mode, or withtweezers.

The Autosampler does not keep track of the pans in thesample tray. Be careful not to unload a pan on top ofanother pan in the tray.

1. Press the LOAD key. You are prompted toselect option 1 (Load) or 2 (Unload):


2. Select the Unload option by pressing the 2key then pressing ENTER. You are thenprompted to select which cell position tounload:

Unload Ref (1) or Sample (2) ? 1

3. Select a cell position (reference or sample)by pressing a numeric key then pressingENTER. You are then prompted to selectthe destination tray position:


NOTE:

Loading and Unloading Pans



4. Select a tray position:

� Press ENTER to select sample pan 0,and the Autosampler will unload theselected pan back to the tray positionfrom which it was originally loaded.

OR

� Type a number between 1 and 62 toselect a different tray position, thenpress ENTER.

If you load pans into the DSC cell by hand or pressRESET SAMPLER after loading them with the LOAD key,you must enter a returning pan number (you cannot usesample pan number 0).

Press RESET SAMPLER to clear the Autosampler’smemory whenever you remove a pan from the DSC cellwith tweezers. If you do not, the Autosampler assumesthat the pan is still in the cell, and if you later start arun on the controller, the Autosampler attempts toremove the pan and halts when it cannot find the pan.

NOTE:

NOTE:


Stopping theAutosampler

Three keys on the Autosampler keypad enableyou to suspend and resume Autosampler motion:the HALT key, the RESUME key, and theRESET SAMPLER key.

The HALT Key

The HALT key affects only the motion of theAutosampler turret assembly; any currentlyrunning heating or cooling method on the control-ler continues. After you press the HALT key,you can resume action with the AutosamplerRESUME key. The Autosampler then com-pletes the task that was interrupted.

When the Autosampler is in manual mode, youcan use the motion keys to move the turretassembly while it is halted without canceling theprevious command. However, if you press anyof the following keys while the Autosampler ishalted, the previous command is forgotten:

� ESCAPE/CLEAR� MANUAL/AUTOMATIC� RESET SAMPLER

If you press ESCAPE/CLEAR after halting theAutosampler then enter a new command beforepressing the RESUME key, the new command isexecuted when you press RESUME.

Stopping the Autosampler



The RESUME Key

The RESUME key resumes the last commandafter the Autosampler has been halted with theHALT key. This key does not resume theprevious command after you press the RESETSAMPLER key.

The RESET SAMPLER Key

In manual mode, the RESET SAMPLER keyclears all commands, assumes that the cell isempty and all pans are in the tray, and returnsthe Autosampler to the home position (see Figure3.2).

Figure 3.2The DSC Autosamplerin Home Position

When you press the RESET SAMPLER key,the Autosampler displays:

Enter to ResetEscape to Cancel


To execute the Reset Sampler command, pressENTER. To cancel the Reset Sampler com-mand and return to the previous operation, pressESCAPE/CLEAR.

If you press ENTER to continue the reset, thedisplay shows:

Manual ModeResetting

When the Autosampler reaches home position,the display displays:

Manual ModeIdle

and the Autosampler is ready for a command.

When the Autosampler is in automatic mode, theRESET SAMPLER key stops the AS run sequence andmethod currently being executed from the controller.

Conditions When Resetting

The Autosampler assumes that the DSC cell isempty when you press RESET SAMPLER, soyou should check that this is true whenever youpress this key. If there are any pans in the cellafter you press RESET SAMPLER, you mustremove them manually with tweezers or theAutosampler motion keys. The Autosamplerdoes check that all lids are in their storagepositions and displays an error message if theyare not.

NOTE:

Stopping the Autosampler



If you press RESET SAMPLER when a pan is still in theDSC cell, then use the LOAD key to load a pan into thesame position, the Autosampler will not know that thefirst pan is there and will attempt to load the secondpan onto the first. This could cause damage to thepans. Always check that the cell is empty after youpress RESET SAMPLER.

NOTE:


CHAPTER 4: Calibrating theAutosampler

Overview .................................................... 4-3

Precalibration Checklist ........................ 4-8

Performing the Calibration .......................... 4-9

Calibrating the Cell Lid Positions ........ 4-11

Calibrating the Cell Pan Positions....... 4-15

Calibrating the Lid Storage Positions .. 4-21

Calibrating the Sample Tray ............... 4-24

Checking Your Calibration ........................ 4-28

The LOAD/LIDS Test ....................... 4-29

The Verify Test .................................. 4-33

The Cycle Pans Test .......................... 4-34

Calibrating the Autosampler



OverviewThe calibration procedures described in this chapter arecritical to proper operation of the Autosampler.

In order for the Autosampler to accurately pickup, load, and unload sample pans, it must becorrectly calibrated. There are four differentcalibration procedures for the Autosampler:

� Cell lid positions� Cell pan positions� Lid storage positions� Sample tray positions.

The display that is used to calibrate the positions,and a brief description of each one are listed andillustrated in Table 4.1 beginning on the nextpage.

You will need to calibrate the cell lid and cell panpositions using the procedures described onpages 4-11 to 4-19. The lid storage and sampletray calibrations described on pages 4-20 to 4-25are performed at the factory; however, theseprocedures are provided in case calibration ofthese positions becomes necessary.

After you calibrate the Autosampler, checkyour calibration by following the guidelines in�Checking Your Calibration� (pages 4-26 to4-31).

Once the Autosampler is correctly calibrated,you may need to recalibrate it only when youreplace the DSC cell. Periodic checks are thebest way of determining when the Autosamplerneeds recalibration.

NOTE:

Overview



Calibrate/VerifyLid #1 Cell


Table 4.1AutosamplerCalibration Position

Screen Display Autosampler Position

The small, silver lid�s position onthe DSC cell.

The medium-sized, stainless-steellid�s position on the DSC cell.

The large, aluminum lid�s position onthe DSC cell.

(table continued)



Table 4.1 (continued)


The dimple in the DSC cell wherethe reference pan is placed (therear position).

The dimple in a DSC cell where thesample pan is placed. (For dualsample cells, choose side A or B.)

The small, silver lid�s storageposition.

(table continued)

Calibrate/VerifySample Pos.

Calibrate/VerifyLid #1 Storage

Calibrate/VerifyCell Ref. Pos.

Overview

Single Sample DSC Cell

Calibrate/VerifySample A/B

Single Sample Cell Display

Dual Sample Cell Display





The medium-sized, stainless-steellid�s storage position.

The large, aluminum lid�s storageposition.

(table continued)






Position 1 on the sample tray.



Calibrate/VerifyTray Pos. #11



Overview



PrecalibrationChecklist

Use the checklist below to make sure yourAutosampler system is set up properly and readyto be calibrated.

Ensure that:

❏ You have two properly crimped, empty pansto use in the calibration procedure (seeChapter 5 for pan crimping instructions).Hermetic or open pans are notrecommended for calibration. When youhave finished and checked your calibration,you can cycle hermetic or open pans forfurther verification.

❏ The DSC cell is level and properly installed.

❏ Air lines and optional cell purge nitrogen gaslines are connected.

❏ The Autosampler is on and has passed theconfidence tests.

❏ The DSC cell has been calibrated fortemperature, cell constant, and baseline (seeyour Thermal Solutions/Advantage�UserReference Guide for instructions).

❏ The DSC cell is clean and free of corrosionor boiled-out material from previousexperiments.


Performingthe Calibration

Please read the following cautions and notesbefore calibrating the Autosampler. They arenumbered for easy reference.

CAUTIONS

1) Each time you select the Verify function ormove the turret with the LIDS or LOAD key, holdyour finger over the HALT key so that you canstop the Autosampler if it looks as if the grip-pers are going to run into something. Afterhalting the Autosampler, take one of the follow-ing actions:

• If the Autosampler was performing a Verifyfunction, press RESET SAMPLER and repeatthe Verify operation to recheck the position.If it is incorrect, HALT the Autosampleragain, press ESCAPE/CLEAR to cancel theVerify function, press RESUME, thenrecalibrate the position.

• If the Autosampler was performing a LIDSor LOAD function, press ESCAPE/CLEAR tocancel the LIDS command, then pressRESUME to continue with the calibration.

2) During calibration, the Autosampler doesnot keep track of lid and pan locations. Whenyou use the Verify function, watch carefully toensure that the Autosampler does not attemptto stack lids or pans on top of each other.

t CAUTION:

t CAUTION:

Performing the Calibration



NOTES

1) Calibrate the Autosampler in the order shown inthis manual.

2) The Autosampler must be in manual mode duringcalibration (see Chapter 3).

3) You should be familiar with how the motion keyswork before you calibrate the Autosampler. For areview of motion key operation, please see Chapter 3.

4) You can change the speed of the motion keys atany point in the calibration procedures by pressing theSPEED key and entering a new speed (number from 0to 9). The default speed is 7 at Autosampler power-up.Lower speeds are recommended for fine control, butyou may want to change to higher speeds when you aremoving the turret for longer distances. For moreinformation on the SPEED key, please see Chapter 3.

5) If the grippers, either empty or holding a pan or lid,contact the DSC cell furnace, the Autosampler displaysa “Contact Error” message and freezes operation of allmotion keys except the RAISE key. This is a safetyfeature that prevents the grippers from being bent orpuncturing the floor of the DSC cell furnace. To correctthe condition, simply press the RAISE key to clear thegrippers from the obstacle, then reposition the gripperswith the other motion keys (ROTATE, EXTEND, RE-TRACT) and try again.

6) If the Autosampler screen displays any step-errormessages during the calibration procedure, pressRESET SAMPLER, then recalibrate the position.Positions calibrated during a step-error condition maynot be reliable.

NOTE:

NOTE:

NOTE:

NOTE:

NOTE:

NOTE:


Calibrating theCell Lid Positions

Because each DSC cell is custom made, the celllid positions cannot be calibrated at the factoryand must be calibrated on newly installedAutosamplers.

1. Press RESET SAMPLER and pressENTER to bring the Autosampler to homeposition.

2. Make sure all lids are in their storagepositions (see Table 4.1).

3. Press the LIDS key. The screen displays:


4. Select option 2 (Cover) by pressing the 2 keythen pressing ENTER. The Autosamplerpicks up a lid and begins moving toward thecell.

5. Press the ESCAPE/CLEAR key when theAutosampler reaches the DSC cell area.

6. Use the motion keys to position the lid in itscorrect cell calibration position (see Table4.1). Press the RELEASE and GRIP keysrepeatedly to ensure that the fingers canfirmly grasp the lid, and watch carefully toensure that each finger contacts the lid at thesame time (see Figure 4.1).




Figure 4.1Calibrating aCell Lid Position

7. When you are satisfied that the lid is prop-erly positioned, press the CALIBRATE keyuntil you see the correct cell lid position onthe display:


8. Press ENTER. The screen displays:

Verify (1) orStore (2) ? 1

ALL FOURFINGERSSHOULDCONTACTTHE LIDAT THESAME TIMEWHEN YOUPRESS THEGRIP KEY.

LID

IN OPENPOSITION,FINGERSSHOULD BEEQUIDISTANTFROM THEKNOB ONTHE LID.

GRIPPERS

SIDE VIEW

TOP VIEW


9. Select option 2 (Store) to store the calibra-tion position (press the 2 key then pressENTER). The screen displays:

Lid #1 CellCalibrated

10. Release the lid (press the RELEASE key).Press RESET SAMPLER and ENTER tobring the Autosampler to the home position.Disregard the message �Error Lid #1 notstored.� Press the CALIBRATE key untilyou see the correct cell lid position on thedisplay:




12. Press ENTER to select default option 1(Verify).

13. When the turret stops moving, close andopen the grippers again and check yourcalibration against the criteria in Figure 4.1.Remember to release the lid. If the positionis correctly calibrated, go on to step 14. If itis not, repeat steps 3 through 13 with lid #1.




14. Repeat steps 3 through 13 with lids 2 and 3(the medium-sized and large lids). Thescreen displays in steps 7, 9, and 10 are thesame except for the lid numbers:

Steps 7 and 10:


or


Step 9:


or


15. When you have calibrated all three cell lidpositions, use the LIDS key to return the lidsto their storage positions (select option 1Uncover).

16. Press ESCAPE/CLEAR to exit the calibra-tion procedure.

17. If you are calibrating a newly installedAutosampler, go on to �Calibrating the CellPan Positions� (pages 4-15 to 4-19). Other-wise, go on to the section entitled �CheckingYour Calibration� (page 4-26).


Calibrating theCell Pan Positions

Because each DSC cell is custom made, the cellpan positions cannot be calibrated at the factoryand must be calibrated on newly installedAutosamplers.

1. Press RESET SAMPLER and pressENTER to bring the Autosampler to thehome position.

2. Make sure the cell lids are in their storagepositions (see Table 4.1), and place emptycrimped pans in tray positions 1 and 2.

3. Press the LOAD key. The screen displays:


4. Select option 1 (Load) by pressing ENTER.The screen displays:

Load Ref (1)Sample (2) ? 1

5. Select option 1 (Load Ref) by pressingENTER. The screen displays:





6. Select tray position 1 by pressing ENTER.The Autosampler picks up the pan in trayposition 1 and begins moving toward the cell.

7. Press ESCAPE/CLEAR when theAutosampler reaches the DSC cell area.

8. Use the motion keys to position the pan in itscorrect calibration position (see Table 4.1).Press the RELEASE and GRIP keys repeat-edly to ensure that the fingers can firmlygrasp the pan, and watch carefully to ensurethat each finger contacts the pan at the sametime (see Figure 4.2).

Figure 4.2Calibrating aCell Pan Position

SIDE VIEW

GRIPPERS

CELL DIMPLE

PAN

IN OPEN POSITION,FINGERS SHOULD BEEQUIDISTANT FROMTHE PAN.

ALL FOURFINGERS SHOULDCONTACT THEPAN AT THESAME TIMEWHEN YOUPRESS THE GRIPKEY.TOP VIEW


9. When you are satisfied that the pan isproperly positioned, press the CALIBRATEkey repeatedly until you see the correct cellpan position on the display:





Cell Ref. Pos.Calibrated

12. Release the pan (press the RELEASE key).Press RESET SAMPLER and ENTER tobring the Autosampler to the home position.Press the CALIBRATE key until you see thecorrect cell lid position on the display:








15. When the turret stops moving, close andopen the grippers again and check yourcalibration against the criteria in Figure 4.2.Remember to release the pan. If theposition is correctly calibrated, go on to step16. If it is not, repeat steps 3 through 15.

16. Press the LOAD key. The screen displays:




18. Select option 2 (Sample) by pressing 2 thenENTER. The screen displays:


19. Select tray position 2 (press the 2 key thenpress ENTER). The Autosampler picks upthe pan in tray position 2 and begins movingtoward the cell.

20. Press ESCAPE/CLEAR when theAutosampler reaches the DSC cell area.

21. Use the motion keys to position the pan in itscorrect calibration position (see Table 4.1).Press the RELEASE and GRIP keys repeat-edly to ensure that the fingers can firmlygrasp the pan, and watch carefullyto ensure that each finger contacts the panat the same time (see Figure 4.2).


22. When you are satisfied that the pan isproperly positioned, press the CALIBRATEkey repeatedly until you see the correct cellpan position on the display:

Calibrate/VerifySample Pos.




Sample Pos.Calibrated

25. Release the pan (press the RELEASE key).Press RESET SAMPLER and ENTER tobring the Autosampler to the home position.Press the CALIBRATE key until you seethe correct cell lid position on the display:

Calibrate/Verify Sample Pos.







28. When the turret stops moving, close andopen the grippers again and check yourcalibration against the criteria in Figure 4.2.Remember to release the pan and raise theturret out of the cell with the RAISE key.

29. Use the LOAD key to remove the pans fromthe cell.

30. Press ESCAPE/CLEAR to end the calibra-tion procedure. Go on to the section entitled�Checking Your Calibration� (page 4-26).


Calibrating theLid Storage Positions

To calibrate the lid storage positions, follow thesteps below:


2. Check that the three cell lids are in theirstorage positions (see Table 4.1).

3. Use the motion keys to position the grippersover lid #1 (the small lid). Press the GRIPand RELEASE keys repeatedly to ensurethat the fingers can firmly grasp the lid, andwatch carefully to ensure that each fingercontacts the lid at the same time (see Figure4.3).

Figure 4.3Calibrating a LidStorage Position


GRIPPERS

LID

SIDE VIEW

TOP VIEW

IN OPEN POSITION,FINGERS SHOULD BEEQUIDISTANT FROMTHE KNOB ONTHE LID.

ALL FOUR FINGERSSHOULD CONTACTTHE LID AT THESAME TIME WHENYOU PRESS THEGRIP KEY.



4. Press the CALIBRATE key repeatedly untilyou see the correct lid storage position onthe display:





Lid #1 StorageCalibrated

7. Release the lid (press the RELEASE key).Press RESET SAMPLER and ENTER tobring the Autosampler to the home position.Press the CALIBRATE key until you see thecorrect cell lid position on the display:






10. When the turret stops moving, close andopen the grippers again and check yourcalibration against the criteria in Figure 4.3.Remember to release the lid. If the positionis correctly calibrated, go on to step 11. If itis not, repeat steps 3 through 10 with lid #1.

11. Repeat steps 3 through 10 to calibrate thestorage positions for lids 2 and 3 (the me-dium-sized and large lids). The screendisplays in steps 4, 6, and 7 are the sameexcept for the lid numbers:

Steps 4 and 7:


or


Step 6:


or






Calibrating theSample Tray

To calibrate the sample tray positions, use thefollowing procedures:

The Autosampler uses the calibrated tray positions 1,11, and 59 to calculate all other tray positions. Besure to verify each of these positions as describedbelow.

1. Press RESET SAMPLER and pressENTER to bring the Autosampler to thehome position.

2. Make sure the sample tray is fully inserted.

3. Place empty crimped pans in tray positions 1,11, and 59.

4. Use the motion keys to position the grippersover the pan in tray position #1. Press theGRIP and RELEASE keys to ensure that thefingers can firmly grasp the pan, and watchcarefully to ensure that each finger contactsthe pan at the same time (see Figure 4.4).

NOTE:


Figure 4.4Calibrating a Tray Position

5. Press the CALIBRATE key repeatedly untilyou see the correct tray position on thedisplay:





SIDE VIEW

SAMPLE TRAYPEDESTAL

GRIPPERS

PAN

TOP VIEW

IN OPEN POSITION,FINGERS SHOULD BEEQUIDISTANT FROMTHE PAN.

ALL FOUR FINGERSSHOULD CONTACTTHE PAN AT THESAME TIME WHENYOU PRESS THE GRIPKEY.




Tray Pos. #1Calibrated

8. Release the pan (press the RELEASE key).Press RESET SAMPLER and ENTER tobring the Autosampler to the home position.Press the CALIBRATE key until you see thecorrect cell lid position on the display:





11. When the turret stops moving, close andopen the grippers again and check yourcalibration against the criteria in Figure 4.4.Remember to release the pan. If theposition is correctly calibrated, go on to step12. If it is not, repeat steps 4 through 11 fortray position 1.

12. Repeat steps 4 through 11 for tray positions11 and 59. The screen displays in steps 5, 7,and 8 are the same except for the trayposition numbers:


Steps 5 and 8:


or


Step 7:

Tray Pos. #11 Calibrated

or

Tray Pos. #59Calibrated





CheckingYour Calibration

This section recommends three methods tocheck the accuracy of your Autosamplercalibrations:

� The LOAD/LIDS test� The Verify test� The Cycle Pans test.

We recommend that you use the LOAD/LIDStest to check your first calibration. The Verifytest is ideal for quick checks after you makesmall adjustments. The Cycle Pans test is usefulfor long-term cycling tests that check theAutosampler�s ability to continuously load andunload samples and lids. Whatever method youuse, always be ready to press the HALT key ifthe Autosampler turret arm starts to run intosomething.

If the Autosampler has trouble completing any ofthe tests or displays any error messages, note theposition(s) showing a problem, then stop the test.You do not need to recalibrate the entire Auto-sampler; recalibrate only the incorrect positionsby following the appropriate steps on pages 4-11to 4-25. If you need to recalibrate any of thesample tray positions, however, you must verifyall three. The Autosampler uses the calibrationvalues for positions 1, 11, and 59 to determinethe locations of all pans on the tray.

After correcting a calibration, run the Verify testagain.

Make sure the DSC cell is empty before you run thefollowing tests.

NOTE:


The LOAD/LIDS Test

The LOAD/LIDS test is recommended forcomprehensive testing of all calibration positions.

Step A:

Use the LOAD key to test theAutosampler�s ability to load and unloadpans from the tray to the DSC cell.


2. Place empty crimped pans in tray positions 6,45, and 55.

3. Press the LOAD key. The Autosamplerscreen displays:




5. Select option 1 (Ref) by pressing ENTER.The screen displays:


Checking Your Calibration



6. Select tray position 6 (press the 6 key thenpress ENTER). The Auto-sampler loads thepan in tray position 6 into the cell referenceposition.

7. Press the LOAD key again.

8. Select option 1 (Load) by pressing ENTER.

9. Select option 2 (Sample) by pressing the 2key then pressing ENTER.

10. Select tray position 45 (press 45 thenENTER). The Autosampler loads the pan intray position 45 into the cell sample (orsample A) position.


12. Select option 1 (Load) by pressing ENTER.

13. Select option 1 (Ref) by pressing ENTER.

14. Select tray position 55 (press 55 thenENTER). The Autosampler loads the pan intray position 55 into the cell referenceposition. The Autosampler first unloads pan6 from the reference position.

15. Press the LOAD key again. The screendisplays:



16. Select option 2 (Unload) by pressing the 2key then pressing ENTER. The screendisplays:

Unload Ref(1) orSample(2) ? 1

17. Select option 1 (Ref) by pressing ENTER.The screen displays:


18. Select default tray position 0 by pressingENTER (tray position zero tells the Au-tosampler to return the pan to the trayposition from which it was loaded).


20. Select option 2 (Unload) by pressing the 2key then pressing ENTER.

21. Select option 2 (Sample) by pressing the 2key then pressing ENTER.

22. Select default tray position 0 by pressingENTER.




Step B:

Use the LIDS key to test theAutosampler�s ability to cover the DSC cell.


2. Press the LIDS key. The Autosamplerscreen displays:


3. Select option 2 (Cover) by pressing the 2 keythen pressing ENTER. The Autosamplerremoves all lids from their storage positionsand places them on the cell.

4. Press the LIDS key again. The screendisplays:


5. Select default option 1 (Uncover) by press-ing ENTER. The Autosampler removes alllids from the cell and returns them to theirstorage positions.


The Verify Test

The Verify function is best for testing individualpan or lid positions.


2. Press the CALIBRATE key repeatedly untilthe screen displays the position you want tocheck.



4. Select option 1 (Verify) by pressing ENTER.The Autosampler should move to the positionyou selected in step 2.

5. Use Table 4.1 to determine whether theturret is in the correct position when it stopsmoving. Press the GRIP and RELEASEkeys to test the grippers� ability to firmlygrasp the object.

6. To test another position, go back to step 2.Press ESCAPE/CLEAR when you arefinished with the Verify test.




The Cycle Pans Test

The Cycle Pans test exercises all of theAutosampler�s loading and unloading functions,but requires only a few simple keystrokes. It isrecommended as a double check after theLOAD/LIDS test or as a quick verification forexperienced users.


2. Load the sample tray with at least fiveempty crimped pans. Use sample traypositions 1 through 5.

3. Press the TEST key two times. The screendisplays:

TestCycle Pans

4. Press ENTER to select the Cycle Pans test.This test causes the Autosampler tocontinuously load and unload pans into theDSC cell reference and sample positions.(See �Testing Autosampler Functions� inChapter 6 for further explanation of theCycle Pans test.)

5. Allow the Autosampler to complete at leastone full cycle of the test:

� Two pans are removed from their traypositions and placed in the cell.


� The lids are placed on the cell.

� The lids are removed.

� The pans are returned to their storagepositions.

If you must stop the test because of calibra-tion errors, press the ESCAPE/CLEARkey.

6. Press ESCAPE/CLEAR to stop the CyclePans test after the Autosampler completesat least one cycle of the test.





CHAPTER 5: Preparing Samples

Overview .................................................... 5-3

Installing the Crimping Die .......................... 5-4

Setting Up the Sample Tray ........................ 5-9

Autosampler Run Capacity ................. 5-10

Reuse of Pans ..................................... 5-11

Order of Runs ..................................... 5-12

Pan Metal and Type ........................... 5-13

Preparing Sample Pans ............................. 5-14

Preparing Crimped Pans ..................... 5-19

Preparing Hermetic Pans.................... 5-24

Preparing Samples



OverviewThis chapter explains how to:

� Install the TA Instruments crimping die inthe sample encapsulating press

� Set up the sample tray

� Prepare crimped and hermetic pans forAutosampler use.

Overview

Preparing Samples


Installing theCrimping Die

The Autosampler comes equipped with acrimping die designed to work with the TAInstruments Autosampler crimped pans. Followthe steps below to install the crimping die in thesample encapsulating press before preparingcrimped pans for Autosampler use.

1. Loosen the lower die holder thumbscrew onthe sample encapsulating press.

Figure 5.1The Lower DieHolder Thumbscrew


2. Turn the sample press on its back.

Figure 5.2Turning theSample EncapsulatingPress on its Back

3. Turn the base screw counterclockwise tolower the height of the lower die.

Figure 5.3Lowering theBase Screw

Installing the Crimping Die

Preparing Samples


4. Set the sample press upright.

Figure 5.4Setting the SampleEncapsulatingPress Upright

5. Lift the lower die out of the sample press.

Figure 5.5Removingthe Lower Die


6. Loosen the allen screw on the lower die (seeFigure 5.6), then lift the inner core out of thedie.

Figure 5.6Removing theInner Core fromthe Lower Die

7. Insert the new inner core (included with theAutosampler; see Figure 5.7) into the die.Retighten the allen screw.

Installing the Crimping Die

ALLEN SCREW

BASE

SPRING

OUTER SHAFT

INNER CORE

Preparing Samples


Figure 5.7Installing theNew Inner Core

8. Insert the modified die into the sample press.

9. Tilt the sample press on its back again andturn the base screw clockwise to adjust theheight of the lower die.

10. Tilt the sample press back up and bring thelever down to test the height of the lowerdie. The upper die should just touch thelower die when the lever is fully down.

11. Repeat steps 9 and 10 until the height of thelower die is satisfactory. Then tighten thelower die holder thumbscrew to hold thelower die in place.

12. Crimp a few empty pans to verify that thedie is at an acceptable height (see pages 5-19 to 5-23).

NEW INNERCORE

ALLEN WRENCH


Setting Up theSample Tray

Before you prepare your sample pans and set upthe sample tray, you should consider the follow-ing:

� Sample and run capacity � Reuse of pans � Order of runs � Pan metal and type.

Each of these considerations is explained on thefollowing pages.

Setting Up the Sample Tray

Preparing Samples


AutosamplerRun Capacity

When you use the Autosampler and controller toautomate sample loading and unloading, you mustcreate an Autosampler (AS) run sequencefor each tray of samples. An AS run sequenceis composed of a series of runs, each of whichrequires a reference pan and sample pan in thecell (see �Terminology� in Chapter 1 forexplanations of the terms AS run sequence andrun). When you set up your tray, you mustconsider the maximum number of runs that canbe set up in an AS run sequence, known as theAutosampler�s run capacity.

If you are using the LNCA for cooling experi-ments, the maximum number of cooling runs inan AS run sequence is limited by the amount ofliquid nitrogen in the LNCA tank. The rate atwhich the liquid nitrogen is used up depends, ofcourse, on your method: the temperature youuse, how long you hold the cell at a particulartemperature, the rate of change in temperature,and so on. In general, you can expect to getapproximately 10 to 15 cooling runs with oneLNCA tank-full of liquid nitrogen when yourmethod cools to the lower limit of -150oC. If youhave an autofill LNCA, you will need to allowsufficient delay times between runs for theLNCA to refill from the bulk storage tank. Youare encouraged to experiment using your ownthermal methods to determine what you canexpect from your system.

The maximum number of runs in an AS runsequence is 62 (the number of positions in theAutosampler tray). Thus, you can run 62samples in an AS run sequence if you manually


load the reference pan and place only pans thatactually contain samples in the tray. (This runcapacity also applies to the Autosampler with anRCS used for cooling.)

You should use the same pan type (e.g.,crimped, hermetic) and metal (e.g., aluminum,copper) for the reference pan as you do for yoursample pans. Thus, if you are using more thanone pan type or metal in one AS run sequence,you will need to include a corresponding refer-ence pan for each type or metal used. This willdecrease the number of actual samples in the ASrun sequence.

Reuse of Pans

Because thermal analysis experiments cansometimes deform the pans or cause the samplematerial to boil out, we do not recommend thatyou reload pans in the Autosampler once theyhave been unloaded from the DSC cell. Thus, ifyou want to run a sample through more than onethermal method during your AS run sequence, doone of the following:

1. Run several methods on one sample panconsecutively. The Autosampler does notunload a pan at the completion of a run if thenext run calls for the same pan.

2. If you prefer not to run consecutive methodson one sample, prepare several pans contain-ing the same material.


Preparing Samples


Order of Runs

To avoid mistakes, we suggest that you place thepans in the sample tray in the order in which youintend to run them. The following paragraphssuggest some guidelines for determining theorder of your runs.

Perform cooling methods before heatingmethods. Unlike the electricity that supplies thecell heater, the LNCA�s supply of liquid nitrogenis limited. Thus, you can keep the amount ofliquid nitrogen needed to do a cooling method ata minimum by putting all cooling-only runs at thebeginning of the AS run sequence. If you plan torun combination cooling/ heating methods, thesemethods should come next, followed finally byany heating-only methods.

Keep runs of a similar method together.For example, if you plan to run some of yoursamples through a cooling method with theLNCA or RCS and some through heatingmethods, you should run all of the cooledsamples consecutively to prevent unnecessarywaste of your liquid nitrogen supply. If youalternate heating and cooling runs, the cell heaterwill have to work harder to bring the cell up totemperature and the LNCA or RCS will have towork harder to bring the temperature downagain.


Pan Metal and Type

The metal (e.g., aluminum, copper) and type(e.g., crimped, hermetic) of your reference pansmust always match the metal and type of samplepan. Thus, when you are setting up the tray,remember to include a new reference pan foreach new sample pan type used.

The DSC Autosampler operates using thefollowing types of TA Instruments pans:

� Autosampler crimped pans� Hermetic pans� Open pans

The above pans are available in a variety ofmetals. Any pan metal can be used with theAutosampler, as long as it is conductive. How-ever, do not use aluminum pans at temperaturesabove 600oC.

Operation of the Autosampler with pans otherthan those listed above is not recommended.Autosampler performance is not guaranteed withpans that are not provided by TA Instruments.


Preparing Samples


PreparingSample Pans

Follow the steps on the following pages toprepare sample pans and set up the Autosamplertray. Keep these tips in mind when preparingsample pans:

� The oils on your finger can affect the resultsof thermal analysis experiments. Thus,always use tweezers when handling pansand sample material.

� If you overfill a pan, the heating or coolingmethod may cause the sample to boil out,buckle, or explode the pan. If the Auto-sampler cannot remove a pan from the cellbecause of deformation or boiled-outmaterial, operation is halted until the problemis corrected. Thus, before you use theAutosampler for unattended runs, you shouldbe reasonably familiar with the effects ofexperimental heating and cooling methods onyour samples and pans.

� Use the Sample Information Chart to keep arecord of sample weights and identificationswhile you prepare your pans. You will needthis information later when you program ASrun sequences on the controller. Makeseveral copies of the chart before beginning.You are authorized to copy pages 5-17 and5-18 only, but no other part of the manual.


� If this is the first time you have used theDSC sample encapsulating press, werecommend that you practice the followingprocedures with empty pans beforeattempting to seal a sample.

� If you wish to prepare additional trays ofsamples while a tray is being run on theAutosampler, you can purchase additionaltrays and covers from TA Instruments.

Preparing Sample Pans

Preparing Samples



Tray Cell Reference Sample Name or Sample Method Position Position Pan Reference Pan Type Weight File

3

6

9

14

29

31

1

2

4

5

7

8

10

11

12

13

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

30

Preparing Samples


Tray Cell Reference Sample Name or Sample Method Position Position Pan Reference Pan Type Weight File

32

33

34

36

37

35

38

42

48

56

59

60

61

62

58

57

55

54

53

52

51

50

49

47

46

45

44

43

41

40

39


PreparingCrimped Pans

Make sure the crimping die is properly installed (seepage 5-4) before you perform the following.

1. Place a pan and cover (see Figure 5.8) in amilligram balance (measuring accuracy ofthe balance must be + 0.0001 gram) andrecord the weight.

Figure 5.8TA InstrumentsCrimped Pan

2. Leave the pan and cover in the balance andplace your sample in the pan. Record theweight.

3. Subtract the weight you obtained in step 1from the weight you obtained in step 2 andenter the result in the sample weight columnof the Sample Information Chart.

4. Place the pan in the well of the lower die ofthe sample encapsulating press (see Figure5.9).

NOTE:


Preparing Samples


Figure 5.9Sample EncapsulatingPress Set Up forNonhermetic Crimping

5. Place the cover over the pan:

� If the sample is small or thin, align thecover with the pan (see Figure 5.10).

� If the sample is large, invert the coverand place it in the pan (see Figure 5.10).

LEVER

UPPER DIE

LOWER DIE

WELL


Figure 5.10Placing theCover overthe Crimped Pan

6. Pull the sample press lever forward and pushdown gently until the lever stops moving.

7. Raise the lever and remove the pan from thewell. Check the pan to ensure that it meetsthe specifications outlined in Table 5.1 (nextpage).

If the pan does not meet the specifications inthe table, you may need to adjust the heightof the lower die. To adjust the lower die,loosen the lower die thumbscrew (see Figure5.1) and follow steps 9 through 11 on page5-8.


Preparing Samples


Table 5.1Specifications forProperly Crimped Pans

Description Illustration

Uniform folding of lidaround circumference

Flat surface on thebottom of the pan;no ridge aroundcircumference

No visible gaps betweenlid and pan

Diameter of pan slightlygreater than 1/4 inch(0.270 to 0.275 inches)


8. Place the pan in the Autosampler tray andrecord the cell position, correspondingreference pan number, and sample name inthe Sample Information Chart (see examplein Figure 5.11). A column is also provided inthis chart for the thermal method file.

Figure 5.11Using the SampleInformation Chart


Preparing Samples


Preparing Hermetic Pans

Make sure your sample press is set up for hermeticsealing (see Appendix A in the DSC Operator’s Manual)before you perform the following procedure.

1. Place the hermetic pan and cover (seeFigure 5.12) in a milligram balance (measur-ing accuracy of the balance must be +0.0001 gram) and record the weight.

Figure 5.12TA InstrumentsHermetic Pan

2. Leave the pan and cover in the balance andplace your sample in the pan. Record theweight.

3. Subtract the weight you obtained in step 1from the weight you obtained in step 2 andenter the result in the sample weight columnof the Sample Information Chart.

NOTE:

COVERPAN


4. Place the pan in the well of the lower die ofthe sample encapsulating press (see Figure5.13).

Figure 5.13The DSC SamplePress Set Upfor Hermetic Sealing

5. Place the cover over the pan as shown inFigure 5.14.

LEVER

UPPER DIE

WELL

LOWER DIE


Preparing Samples


Figure 5.14Placing the Coverover the Hermetic Pan

6. Place the hermetic preforming tool, groovedside down, around the upper die plunger (seeFigure 5.15).

Figure 5.15Using thePreforming Tool


7. Use your other hand to pull the lever for-ward. Push down on the lever until it stopsmoving. You will need to use more force forhermetic sealing than for crimping.

8. Raise the lever. Flip the preforming toolover (grooved side up) and place it aroundthe upper die plunger.

9. Lower the lever again and push down gentlyuntil it stops moving.

10. Raise the lever and remove the pan from thewell. Check the pan to ensure that it meetsthe specifications in Table 5.2.

If the pan does not meet the specifications inthe table, you may need to adjust the heightof the lower die. To adjust the lower die,loosen the lower die thumbscrew (see Figure5.1) and follow steps 9 through 11 on page5-8.


Preparing Samples


Table 5.2Specifications forProperly SealedHermetic Pans

Description Illustration

Complete seal aroundcircumference of pan

Diameter of panapproximately 5/16 inch(0.300 to 0.310 inches)

11. Place the pan in the Autosampler tray andrecord the cell position, correspondingreference pan number, and sample name inthe Sample Information Chart (see examplein Figure 5.11 on page 5-23).


CHAPTER 6: Diagnostics

Using the Confidence Test Ready Light ..... 6-3

Testing Autosampler Functions ................... 6-6

The Cycle Lids Test ............................. 6-7

The Cycle Pans Test ............................ 6-8

The Sensors Test .................................. 6-9

The Rear Switches Test ..................... 6-15

The Keyboard Test ............................ 6-16

The GPIB Test ................................... 6-17

The Display Test ................................ 6-18

The Motion Test ................................. 6-19

The Cycle A�B Test .......................... 6-20

Error Messages ......................................... 6-22

Other Error Messages ........................ 6-22

Messages on theAutosampler Dispaly .......................... 6-23

Fatal Error Messages................... 6-23Nonfatal Error Messages............. 6-27

Error Messages onthe Controller Screen .......................... 6-46

Diagnostics



Using the ConfidenceTest Ready Light

If the Autosampler screen fails the confidencetest at start-up, you can use the red �ready� lighton the unit�s back panel (see Figure 6.1) todetermine whether the other confidence testsdetect any errors.

Figure 6.1The Autosampler ConfidenceTest Ready Light

Follow the guidelines beginning on the next pageto diagnose problems with the confidence testready light.

Using the Confidence Test Ready Light

Diagnostics


� If the Autosampler is already on, press thereset switch on its back panel to restart theconfidence tests (see Figure 6.2).

Figure 6.2Reset Switch

� Watch the ready light carefully. As eachsystem is tested, the light emits either a short(1/4 second) or a long (3/4 second) flash toindicate whether the system has passed orfailed. A short flash means that the systembeing tested has passed; a long flash meansthat it has failed.

Table 6.1 on the next page lists the confi-dence tests in the order in which they occur.If you see a long flash, use the table todetermine which system failed the test, thencall an authorized service representative.For example, if the fifth test yields a longflash, the keyboard has failed the confidencetest.


Table 6.1Order of the Confidence Tests

Flash TestNumber

1 EPROM checksum2 Variable RAM3 Liquid crystal display4 81555 Keyboard6 Location RAM7 GPIB8 RS-232-C9 Timer interrupt10 Watchdog timer11 Up/down (z-axis) motor

and sensor12 In/out (r-axis) motor and

sensor13 Rotation (q-axis) motor

and sensors

Using the Confidence Test Ready Light

Diagnostics


Testing AutosamplerFunctions

The Autosampler TEST key, a manual modekey, calls up a menu of tests that check theAutosampler�s:

� Calibration�Cycle Lids test�Cycle Pans test

� Sensors� Configuration jumpers� Keyboard operation� GPIB configuration� Display screen� Motors

�Motion test�Cycle A-B test.

The following pages describe how to use each ofthe tests available through the TEST key.


The Cycle Lids Test

The Cycle Lids test loads and unloads the celllids continuously to test the calibration of theAutosampler�s lid storage and cell positions.

1. Press the TEST key once. TheAutosampler screen displays:

TestCycle Lids

2. Press ENTER to select the test displayed onthe screen. The Autosampler begins movingthe cell lids from their storage positions tothe cell. When the cell is covered, theAutosampler returns the lids to their storagepositions. This procedure continuouslycycles until you stop the test (step 3).

3. Press ESCAPE/CLEAR when you areready exit the Cycle Lids test. If any of thelids are left on the cell when you interruptthe test, the Autosampler will not removethem; it will remove them the next time apan needs to be placed in the cell.

Autosampler Test Functions

Diagnostics


The Cycle Pans Test

The Cycle Pans test loads and unloads pansfrom the tray to the DSC cell to test the calibra-tion of the Autosampler�s tray and cell panpositions.

1. Press the TEST key two times. The Auto-sampler screen displays:

TestCycle Pans

2. Press ENTER to select the test displayed onthe screen. The Autosampler begins loadingthe pan in tray position #1 into the cellreference position, as indicated on thescreen:

Cycle Pans 0001Loading Ref.

The number in the upper right of the screenis a counter that indicates how many panshave been cycled. Each time a new pan isloaded from the tray, the counter incrementsby one.

The Autosampler continues loading andunloading pans, going through all positions inthe tray, until you stop the test (step 3).Each time it fills the cell, it places the lids onthe cell. It then removes the lids, removesthe pans, and begins another cycle.

If you want the Cycle Pans test to continue indefinitely,you must fill the entire sample tray with pans.

3. Press ESCAPE/CLEAR when you areready to exit the Cycle Pans test.

NOTE:


The Sensors Test

The Sensors test displays a series of digits thatindicate whether or not the Autosampler sensorsare detecting an object.

1. Press the TEST key three times. TheAutosampler screen displays:

TestSensors

2. Press ENTER to select the test displayed onthe screen. The Autosampler screendisplays a series of 0s and 1s. For example:

Sensors1100 1110 000

Each digit in the above screen correspondsto a separate sensor on the Autosampler.

3. Use Table 6.2 (on the next page) to deter-mine which digit corresponds to the sensoryou want to test. Then move the objectbeing detected by the sensor (e.g., removethe silver lid from its storage position) andwatch the screen. If the digit changes (from0 to 1 or from 1 to 0) as you move theobject, the sensor is working correctly.

Table 6.3 (pages 6-11 to 6-12) explains whateach sensor indicates when a 0 (zero) or 1 isdisplayed.

4. Press ESCAPE/CLEAR to exit the Sensorstest.


Diagnostics


Table 6.2The Sensor Test Digits

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0Lid #3 storage

Lid #2 storage

Lid #1 storage

Tray

R-axis

Q-axis cell

Z-axis

not used

Grippers

Contact finger B

Contact finger A


Table 6.3Explanation of Sensors

Sensor Indication

Lid #3 storage 1 = Lid #3 (the large lid)is in its storageposition.

0 = Lid #3 is not in itsstorage position.

Lid #2 storage 1 = Lid #2 (the medium-sized lid) is in itsstorage position.


Lid #1 storage 1 = Lid #1 (the small lid)is in its storageposition.


Tray 1 = The sample tray isfully inserted.

0 = The tray is not fullyinserted.

R-axis 1 = The turret arm iscentered over theturret assembly(halfway between theinnermost and outer-most limits; see Figure6.3).

0 = The arm is notcentered over theturret assembly.

(table continued)


Diagnostics


Table 6.3(continued)

Sensor Indication

Q-axis cell 1 = The turret arm isover the DSC cell(see Figure 6.4).

0 = The turret arm is notover the DSC cell.

Z-axis 1 = The turret is in thefull-up position (seeFigure 6.5).

0 = The turret is not inthe full-up position.

Grippers 1 = The grippers areholding an object orthe fingers aretouching each other.

0 = The grippers areopen.

Contact finger B* 1 = A finger (one sideof the grippers) iscontacting the cell.

0 = No contact.

Contact finger A* 1 = A finger (one sideof the grippers) iscontacting the cell.

0 = No contact.

* The sides of the grippers to which�finger A� and �finger B� correspondvary for each Autosampler. You caneasily determine this by touching oneof the fingers with a short piece ofwire, touching the other end of thewire to the cell, and watching to seewhich sensor changes to �1.�


Figure 6.3Arm Centered OverTurret Assembly

Figure 6.4Turret Over Cell


Diagnostics


Figure 6.5Turret in Full-UpPosition


The Rear Switches Test

The Rear Switches Test indicates the currentsettings of the system configuration jumpersinside the Autosampler.

1. Press the TEST key four times. TheAutosampler screen displays:

TestRear Switches

2. Press ENTER to select the test displayed onthe screen. The Autosampler displays aseries of 0s and 1s. For example:

Rear Switches10000 01100

A zero (0) digit means that the jumper is off;one (1) indicates that the jumper is on.


Diagnostics


The Keyboard Test

The Keyboard test checks that all Autosamplerkeys are working properly.

1. Press the TEST key five times. The Au-tosampler screen displays:

TestKeyboard

2. Press ENTER to select the test displayed onthe screen.

3. Press each key on the Autosampler key-board (except the ESCAPE/CLEAR key),and watch the screen to ensure that the keydisplayed on the screen matches the one youare pressing. For example, if you press theMANUAL/AUTOMATIC key, the Au-tosampler screen should display:

ManualAutomatic

4. Press ESCAPE/CLEAR when you areready to exit the Keyboard test.


The GPIB Test

The GPIB test enables you to verify the GPIBaddress setting for the Autosampler (for furtherinformation, see Chapter 2).

1. Press the TEST key six times. The Au-tosampler screen displays:

TestGPIB

2. Press ENTER to select the test displayed onthe screen. The screen should display tenhigher than the address you set when youconfigured your DSC:

GPIBAddress = xx

e.g.: DSC 2910 address = 1Autosampler address = 11

3. Press ESCAPE/CLEAR to exit the GPIBtest.


Diagnostics


The Display Test

The Display test checks the Autosamplerscreen.

1. Press the TEST key seven times. TheAutosampler screen displays:

TestDisplay

2. Press ENTER to select the test displayed onthe screen. Strings of characters continu-ously move across the screen:

DEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ[¥]^_‘abc

3. Watch the display carefully to check for:

� Missing rows� Missing columns� Missing pixels (see Figure 6.6).

Figure 6.6Checking forMissing Pixels

4. Press ESCAPE/CLEAR to exit the Displaytest.

Pixel missing here


The Motion Test

The motion test overrides the software limits onAutosampler motor movement so that servicepersonnel can perform motor diagnostics tests.The software limits protect the hardware fromdamage and prevent the motors from beingoverdriven.

The following test is provided primarily for TAInstruments service use. Improper use of thistest can cause damage to the turret mecha-nism. Please contact an authorized servicerepresentative for further information.

1. Press the TEST key eight times. TheAutosampler screen displays:

TestMotion

2. Press ENTER to select the test displayed onthe screen. The screen displays:

MotionTest

3. Press any of the motion keys. The motorcontinues to run even when the turretassembly reaches an obstacle. Note that theGRIP and RELEASE keys move the fingersincrementally instead of fully opening andclosing them in single keystrokes.

Once the turret stops moving, release themotion key. Do not attempt to continue motiononce the motor stalls against an internalmechanical stop.

4. Press ESCAPE/CLEAR to exit the Motiontest.

t CAUTION:

t CAUTION:


Diagnostics


The Cycle A–B Test

The Cycle A�B test cycles the Autosamplerbetween two positions of your choice to checkthe Autosampler�s motor operation.

The following test is provided primarily for TAInstruments service use. Improper use of thistest can cause damage to the turret mecha-nism. This test overrides the Autosampler’santicollision programming; collisions of theturret arm with the enclosure, cell, or sampletray are possible. NEVER leave this testoperating unattended. Please contact anauthorized service representative for furtherinformation.

1. Press the TEST key nine times. TheAutosampler screen displays:

TestCycle A--B

2. Press ENTER to select the test displayed onthe screen. The screen displays:

Cycle A--BEnter Point “A”

3. Use the motion keys to put the Autosamplerin the first position you wish to cycle be-tween, then press ENTER. The screendisplays:

Cycle A--BEnter Point “B”

t CAUTION:


4. Use the motion keys to put the Autosamplerin the second position you wish to cycle, thenpress ENTER. The screen displays:

Cycle A--BEnter to Start

5. Press ENTER. The Autosampler continu-ously cycles between points A and B.

Be ready to press the HALT key to preventpossible collisions of the turret arm with theenclosure, tray, or cell.

Once you are sure the path the Autosamplertakes between points A and B will not resultin a collision, you can cycle this test indefi-nitely.

6. Press ESCAPE/CLEAR to exit the CycleA�B test.

t CAUTION:


Diagnostics


Error MessagesThis section defines and offers a solution forthree types of Autosampler error messages:

(1) Error messages displayed on the Autosamp-ler screen. These messages are explained inalphabetical order starting on page 6-23.

(2) Error messages generated by the Autosamp-ler and shown on the controller screen.

(3) Autosampler-related error messages gener-ated by the controller.

Other Error Messages

If you receive any general controller or instru-ment error messages, please access the onlinehelp provided with the Thermal Solutions/Advantage for detailed instructions and read theguidelines below.

You can access online help by opening the Error Log inInstrument Control and double-clicking on the errorlisted.

When an instrument error occurs, the AS runsequence halts and waits for you to correct theerror. Once you have corrected the error, selectControl/Resume Motion from the Autosam-pler menu to resume the AS run sequence. Ifyou cannot correct the error, select Control/Reset or Control/Stop from the Autosamplermenu to stop the current run. Then selectControl/Start at and select the next run in therun sequence to continue.

NOTE:


Messages on theAutosampler Display

The Autosampler display messages are dividedinto two lists: fatal errors and nonfatal errors.Some of the nonfatal errors are ignored, allowingoperation to continue, and some cause theAutosampler to halt and wait for operatorintervention.

Fatal Error Messages

Fatal error messages indicate a condition thatmust be corrected for operation to continue. TheAutosampler always stops operating when afatal error occurs.

Fatal Error8155 U12

Problem: The confidence test has detectedthat the Autosampler�s scratch-padRAM or I/O (input/output) is notproperly storing what is written to it.

Solution: Turn off the Autosampler and powerup again. If you still receive thismessage, call a qualified servicerepresentative.

Error Messages

Diagnostics


Fatal ErrorDisplay

Problem: The confidence test has detectedthat the Autosampler screen is notproperly displaying what is written toit.


Fatal ErrorEPROM Checksum

Problem: The confidence test has detectedthat the EPROM (erasable program-mable read-only memory) containingthe Autosampler programming hasbeen partially erased or altered.


Fatal ErrorPower Failure

Problem: The power supply has given apower-fail signal indicating that itcannot deliver the voltages neces-sary to operate the Autosampler.



Fatal ErrorRAM U5

Problem: The confidence test has detectedthat the RAM storing data for theAutosampler is not operatingcorrectly.


Fatal ErrorTimer Interrupt

Problem: The confidence test has detectedthat the master clock signal thattimes all Autosampler functions isnot operating correctly.


Error Messages

Diagnostics


Fatal ErrorUnknown Interr.

(Unknown Interrupt)

Problem: The processor has been interruptedfrom normal operation for anunknown reason.


Fatal ErrorWatchdog Timeout

Problem: The Autosampler has detected aninternal electronics or softwaremalfunction.



Nonfatal Error Messages

Nonfatal error messages indicate a condition thatmay require operator intervention to correct theproblem and allow the Autosampler to continue.

Cal. Mem. Error<position>

(calibration memory error)

Problem: The value for the indicated calibra-tion position has been erased.

Solution: Recalibrate the position displayed onthe screen (see Chapter 4).

Contact ErrorFinger “X”

(X = A or B)

Problem: One of the gripper fingers hastouched the DSC cell. Motion isstopped when this occurs to preventdamage to the cell or gripper fingers.All motion keys except the RAISEkey become inoperable.

Solution: Press the RAISE key to clear thegripper fingers from the cell. Thenuse the other motion keys to reposi-tion the grippers before you retry theinterrupted task.

- OR -

Error Messages

Diagnostics


Press RESET SAMPLER andpress ENTER to return the Au-tosampler to the home position, thenretry the interrupted task.

The “Contact Error” messages are only functional whenthe AutoDSC is connected to the GPIB and is pluggedinto an outlet to provide a ground.

Contact ErrorBoth Fingers

Problem: Both of the gripper fingers havetouched the DSC cell. Motion isstopped when this occurs to preventdamage to the cell or gripper fingers.All motion keys except the RAISEkey become inoperable.

Solution: Press the RAISE key to clear thegripper fingers from the cell. Thenuse the other motion keys to reposi-tion the grippers before you retry theinterrupted task.

- OR -

Press RESET SAMPLER andpress ENTER to return the Au-tosampler to home position, thenretry the interrupted task.

ErrorGPIB IC U13

Problem: The confidence test has detectedthat the TMS9914 chip cannotgenerate proper commands; thisindicates a faulty part.

NOTE:



ErrorHolding unk. obj

(Holding unknown object)

Problem: (1) The Autosampler was switchedto automatic mode while it washolding an object or was halted(with the Halt Motion key) whilethe grippers were closing on anobject.

- OR -

(2) You manually gripped an objectwith the motion keys thenattempted to use the LOAD orLIDS key.

Solution: (1) Switch to manual mode (seeChapter 3) and release theobject with the RELEASE key.Then return to automatic mode.

- OR -

(2) Release the object with theRELEASE key, then retry yourcommand.

Error Messages

Diagnostics


ErrorKeyboard shorted

Problem: One or more of the Autosamplerkeys is shorted or was pressedduring the confidence test.


ErrorLid #x dropped

Problem: The Autosampler has dropped a lid(lid #1, #2, or #3) or had troublepicking it up. This can be caused by(1) incorrect calibration, (2) bent ordamaged gripper fingers, or (3) afaulty Autosampler gripper mecha-nism.

Solution: Try recalibrating the relatedposition(s), then repeat the task. Ifthe error occurs again, call a quali-fied service representative.

ErrorLid #x missing

Problem: The Autosampler cannot find a lid(lid #1, #2, or #3) either in itsstorage position or on the DSC cell.


Solution: Return the lid to its storage position.When the Autosampler senses thelid, it should return to normal opera-tion. If this does not work, test thelid storage sensor with the TESTkey (see page 6-9).

If this error message appears whenthe Autosampler is gripping a lid, thegripper sensor may be malfunction-ing; test the gripper sensor with theTEST key.

ErrorLid #x not strd.

(Lid #x not stored)

Problem: The Autosampler has been resetwith one of the Reset Sampler keys,and one of the lids (lid #1, #2, or #3)has not been returned to its storageposition.

Solution: Use tweezers to return the lid to itsstorage position. If the Autosampleris in manual mode, press ESCAPE/CLEAR to clear the error messagefrom the screen.

Error Messages

Diagnostics


ErrorPan #xx dropped

Problem: The Autosampler has dropped a panor cannot pick it up (xx indicates thesample tray number). This can becaused by (1) incorrect calibration,(2) bent or damaged gripper fingers,or (3) a faulty Autosampler grippermechanism.

Solution: Try recalibrating the relatedposition(s), then repeat the task. Ifthe error occurs again, call a quali-fied service representative.

ErrorPan #xx missing

Problem: A pan that the Autosampler isattempting to load or unload ismissing from the DSC cell or thetray.

Solution: Whether the pan is missing from thecell or the tray, return it to its propersample tray position and return allother pans in the cell to their propertray positions. Press Reset, thenselect Start AS-Run. Enter the runnumber of the failed run to retry thetask.


ErrorPosition Empty

Problem: The Autosampler has been com-manded to unload a pan from anempty cell position, or you used trayposition zero (0) to unload a panafter pressing one of the ResetSampler keys.

Solution: Enter a sample pan number (otherthan zero) when using the LOADkey to unload a pan after theAutosampler has been reset.

Error r-axismotor or sensor

Problem: The confidence test has detectedthat the r-axis (in/out) motor is notrunning properly or that motion ofthe turret arm is not being sensed bythe r-axis sensor.

Solution: When the confidence tests finish, trymoving the r-axis motor by pressingthe EXTEND and RETRACT keys.If the turret assembly does notmove, the motor needs to be ser-viced. If the turret moves, test ther-axis sensor with the TEST key(see page 6-9). If the sensor ismalfunctioning, have the sensorserviced.

Error Messages

Diagnostics


Error theta-axismotor or sensor

Problem: The confidence test has detectedthat the q-axis (rotation) motor is notrunning properly or that rotation ofthe turret is not being sensed by oneof the q-axis sensors.

Solution: When the confidence tests finish, trymoving the q-axis motor by pressingthe ROTATE CW and ROTATECCW keys. If the turret assemblydoes not move, the motor needs tobe serviced. If the turret moves,test the q-axis sensor with the TESTkey (see page 6-9). If the sensor ismalfunctioning, have the sensorserviced.

ErrorWatchdog Timer

Problem: The watchdog timer is taking toolong to time out during the confi-dence tests.



Error z-axismotor or sensor

Problem: The confidence test has detectedthat the z-axis (up/down) motor isnot running properly or that themotion of the turret arm is not beingsensed by the z-axis sensor.

Solution: When the confidence tests finish, trymoving the z-axis motor by pressingthe RAISE and LOWER keys. Ifthe turret assembly does not move,the motor needs to be serviced. Ifthe turret moves, test the z-axissensor with the TEST key (see page6-9). If the sensor is malfunctioning,have the sensor serviced.

GPIB Error 50no command found

Problem: A null GPIB command was sentfrom the controller to the Autosam-pler.

Solution: Close the DSC Instrument Controlwindow and turn off the Autosam-pler. Then restart the Autosamplerand reopen DSC Instrument Controland retry your operation.

GPIB Error 51unknown command

Problem: An undefined GPIB command wassent from the controller to theAutosampler.

Error Messages

Diagnostics


Solution: Close the DSC Instrument Controlwindow and turn off the Autosam-pler. Then restart the Autosamplerand reopen DSC Instrument Controland retry your operation..

GPIB Error 52missing AC type



GPIB Error 53extra characters

Problem: A GPIB command containing extracharacters was sent from thecontroller to the Autosampler.


GPIB Error 54non-num. AC type

(non-numeric AC type)




GPIB Error 55unknown AC type



GPIB Error 56bad sequence num

(bad sequence number)

Problem: The sequence number of a GPIBcommand sent to the Autosamplercontains a non-numeric character.


Error Messages

Diagnostics


GPIB Error 57no sequence num.

(no sequence number)

Problem: A GPIB command sent to theAutosampler does not contain asequence number.


GPIB Error 58large sequen num

(large sequence number)

Problem: The sequence number of a GPIBcommand sent to the Autosampler istoo large.


GPIB Error 59non-num pan num.

(non-numeric pan number)

Problem: The sample pan number in a GPIBcommand contains a non-numericcharacter.



GPIB Error 60bad pan number

Problem: The sample pan number in a GPIBcommand does not exist.


GPIB Error 62no pan number

Problem: A GPIB command sent to theAutosampler does not contain a pannumber.


GPIB Error 63no “B” position

Problem: A GPIB command was sent to theAutosampler to load or unloadsample B from a DSC cell.

Error Messages

Diagnostics



GPIB Error 64no pan in ref

(no pan in reference position)

Problem: The Autosampler has been com-manded to unload a pan from anempty cell reference position.Remember that the Autosampleralways assumes that the DSC cell isempty whenever you press one ofthe Reset Sampler keys.

Solution: Close the DSC Instrument Controlwindow and turn off the Autosam-pler. Then restart the Autosamplerand reopen DSC Instrument Controland retry your operation. If there isa pan in the reference position,remove it manually with tweezers.

GPIB Error 65no pan in sample

Problem: The Autosampler has been com-manded to unload a pan from anempty cell sample position. Remem-ber that the Autosampler alwaysassumes that the DSC cell is emptywhenever you press one of theReset Sampler keys.


Solution: Close the DSC Instrument Controlwindow and turn off the Autosam-pler. Then restart the Autosamplerand reopen DSC Instrument Controland retry your operation. If there isa pan the sample position, remove itmanually with tweezers.

GPIB Error 68rec buf overflow

(receive buffer overflow)

Problem: The Autosampler GPIB command-receiving buffer has overflowed.


GPIB Error 69xmit buf ovrflow

(transmit buffer overflow)

Problem: The Autosampler GPIB command-transmitting buffer has overflowed.


Error Messages

Diagnostics


GPIB Error 70interface error

Problem: A GPIB interface error has oc-curred.


GPIB Error 71command too long

Problem: A GPIB command sent to theAutosampler is too long (longer than32 characters).


Parameter ErrorZero-Power RAM

Problem: The confidence test has detectedthat one or more of the calibrationvalues has been altered.

Solution: When the confidence tests finish,test all of the Autosampler�s calibra-tion positions (see �Checking YourCalibration� in Chapter 4) andrecalibrate the position(s) that havebeen erased.


R step error+xxxxx steps

(or �-xxxxx steps�)

Problem: The r-axis motor executed thewrong number of steps to completea movement. The number is positivewhen the motor is retracting andnegative when the motor is extend-ing. Small numbers of lost steps(<25) indicate a loose or worn gear,while frequent errors involving largernumbers indicate that the motor isbinding.

Solution: The Autosampler immediatelycorrects for motor step errors, sothis error condition usually does notrequire any operator action. If yourAutosampler starts showing steperrors with increasing frequency,however, you should have the unitserviced.

If you are calibrating the Auto-sampler, press the RESET SAM-PLER key and recalibrate thecurrent position whenever youreceive a motor step error.

Error Messages

Diagnostics


Theta step error+xxxxx steps


Problem: The q-axis motor had to execute thewrong number of steps to completea movement. The number is positivewhen the movement is in thecounterclockwise direction andnegative for the clockwise direction.Small numbers of lost steps (<25)indicate a loose or worn gear, whilefrequent errors involving largernumbers indicate that the motor isbinding.


If you are calibrating the Autosam-pler, press the RESET SAMPLERkey and recalibrate the currentposition whenever you receive amotor step error.

Waiting for tray

Problem: The Autosampler is attempting toremove a pan from the tray or returna pan to the tray, but the tray ismissing or is not fully inserted.


Solution: Reinsert the tray, making sure youpush it all the way back. If this doesnot correct the problem, you shouldtest the tray sensor with the TESTkey (see page 6-9).

Z step error+xxxxx steps


Problem: The z-axis motor had to execute thewrong number of steps to completea movement. The number is positivewhen the turret assembly is movingdown and negative when it is movingup. Small numbers of lost steps(<25) indicate a loose or worn gear,while frequent errors involving largernumbers indicate that the motor isbinding.


If you are calibrating the Autosam-pler, press the RESET SAMPLERkey and recalibrate the currentposition whenever you receive amotor step error.

Error Messages

Diagnostics


Error Messages on theController Screen

All Autosampler-generated error messages thatappear on the controller screen include the prefix�Err Axx:� (xx = the message number). Furtherinformation on these A# messages can be foundwhen you access the online help provided withThermal Solutions/Advantage.

You can access online help by opening the Error Log inInstrument Control and double-clicking on the errorlisted.

Error messages that appear in the form ofmessage boxes are generally system-generatederrors. For assistance in solving these problems,press the F1 key to access the online help (orselect the Help button) for information directlyrelated to the message displayed.

NOTE:

TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLER A–1

Appendix A: Parts Lists & OrderingInformation

AutosamplerParts ListsTable A.1Printed Circuit Boards

Part Number Description

911110.901 Motor Drive

911120.901 Communications Board

Table A.2Motors and Sensors


990720.901 Gripper Motor Assembly

990737.901 R-Axis (extend/retract)Motor Assembly

990737.902 Q-Axis (rotation) MotorAssembly

990739.901 Z-Axis (up/down) MotorAssembly

Appendix A

TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLERA–2

Table A.3Supplies


900786.902 Crimped Sample PanBottom (200 aluminum)

900779.901 Crimped Sample PanCover (200 aluminum)

Table A.4Miscellaneous Parts


990732.901 Autosampler Sample Tray(62 position)

990685.001 Die Punch for CrimpedSample Pan

90717.901 Gripper Finger Assembly

990687.001 Lid #1 Ambient (silver,with hole)

990686.002 Lid #2 (stainless steel)

990686.001 Lid #3 (aluminum)

990688.901 Sample Tray Lid

990689.001 Sample Tray Overlay

TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLER A–3

Ordering InformationTA Instruments, Inc.109 Lukens DriveNew Castle, DE 19720Telephone: 1-302-427-4000 or 1-302-427-4040Fax: 1-302-427-4001

HELPLINE�U.S.A.For technical assistance with current orpotential thermal analysis applications,please call the Thermal Analysis Help Deskat 1-302-427-4070.

SERVICE�U.S.A.For instrument service and repairs,please call 1-302-427-4050.

TA Instruments Ltd.Europe House, Bilton CentreCleeve RoadLeatherhead, Surrey KT22 7UQEnglandTelephone: 44-1372-360363Fax: 44-1372-360135

TA Instruments GmbHMax-Planck-Strasse 11D-63755 AlzenauGermanyTelephone: 49-6023-9647-0Fax: 49-6023-9647-77

TA Instruments BelgiumA Division of Waters s.a./n.v.Raketstraat 60B-1130 BrusselsTelephone 32-2- 706 00 80Fax 32-2- 706 00 81

TA Instruments The NetherlandsA Division of Waters Chromatography B.V.Florijnstraat 194879 AH Etten-LeurTelephone 31-76- 508 72 70Fax 31-76- 508 72 80

Ordering Information

Appendix A

TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLERA–4

TA Instruments JapanNo. 5 Koike Bldg.1-3-12 KitashinagawaShinagawa-Ku, Tokyo 140JapanTelephone: 813/3450-0981Fax: 813/3450-1322

TA Instruments FranceB.P. 60878056 Saint-Quentin-YvelinesCedexFranceTelephone: 33-1-30-48 94 60Fax: 33-1-30-48 94 51

TA Instruments SpainWaters Cromatografía, S.A.División TA InstrumentsAvda. Europa, 21. Pta. Baja28108 AlcobendasMadrid, SpainTelephone: 34-91-661-8448Fax: 34-91-661-0855

TA Instruments AustraliaUnit 338-46 South StreetRydalmere NSW 2116AutstraliaTelephone: 61-29-9331-705Fax: 61-29-8981-455

TA Instruments ItalyDivision of Waters SpAvia Achille Grandi 2720090 Vimodrone (MI), ItalyTelephone: 39-02-27421-1Fax: 39-02-250-1827

Printed in U.S.A.

TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLER I–1

Index

Index

A

AS run sequences. See �ThermalSolutions User Reference Guide�

definition 1-25

automatic modedefinition 1-22switching to manual mode 3-5

axis termsdefinition 1-23

C

calibration 2-9cautions 4-9checklist 4-8description 4-3 to 4-9lid positions 4-11 to 4-15notes 4-10performing 4-9 to 4-28position, list of 4-4 to 4-9sample tray 4-24

cellcovering 3-10lid positions

calibrating 4-11 to 4-15pan positions

calibrating 4-15 to 4-21uncovering 3-10

confidence test ready light 3-6, 6-3

confidence tests 3-4description 3-6ready light 3-6, 6-3 to 6-6

controllerrelationship to Autosampler 1-7

coverinstalling 2-8

crimping die 5-4installing 5-4 to 5-9

Cycle A�B test 6-20

Cycle Pans test 4-34, 6-8 to 6-9

D

description 1-3, 1-9

diagnostics testsfeatures 1-6

displaydescription 1-19

Display test 6-18

DSC 2910with LNCA

setup 2-4

Index

I–2 TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLER

dust coverinstalling 2-8

E

equipmentrequirements 1-20

error messages 6-22 to 6-46controller display 6-46during confidence tests 3-6fatal 6-23nonfatal 6-27types 6-22

F

features 1-4

G

GPIB 1-19description 1-19

GPIB test 6-17

gripper fingers 1-11description 1-11motor 1-10

H

hermetic preforming tool 5-26

Hotline A-5

I

instrumentpreparation 2-4 to 2-9

K

Keyboard test 6-16

keypaddescription 1-13 to 1-19

keysAutosampler control 1-13

HALT 3-15RESET SAMPLER 3-16RESUME 3-15, 3-16

command 1-13LIDS 3-10LOAD 3-11TEST 6-6

motion 1-13, 3-7, 3-8 to 3-9SPEED key 3-7, 3-9 to 3-11

numeric entry 1-13with dual assignments 1-14

L

lidscalibrating positions 4-11 to 4-15calibrating storage positions 4-21

to 4-24installing 2-7positions 2-7testing positions 4-33


Index

LNCAheat exchanger cable

connecting 2-4relationship to Autosampler 1-8

LOAD/LIDS test 4-29

loadingtesting 4-34

M

manual modecovering cell 3-10definition 1-22stopping instrument 3-15uncovering cell 3-10using 3-3

mechanical fingers 1-4. See gripperfingers

memoryclearing 3-16

methoddefinition 1-25

motion test 6-19

motor diagnostics tests 6-19

motorschanging speed 3-9linear 1-10linear stepper 1-10rotary stepper 1-10testing 6-19

O

offlinedefinition 1-22

onlinedefinition 1-22

online help 6-46

operationautomatic 1-4manual 1-4

ordering information A-4Overseas A-4United States A-4

P

pancalibrating positions 4-15 to 4-21covering 5-20crimped

preparing 5-19 to 5-24specifications 5-22

hermeticpreparing 5-24 to 5-28specifications 5-28

loading 3-11metal 5-13open 5-13overfilling 5-14placement 1-5reusing 5-11 to 5-12type 5-13types 1-5unloading 3-11, 3-13 to 3-15

Index


parts lists A-1 to A-4miscellaneous parts A-2motors and sensors A-1PC Boards A-1supplies A-2

POWER switchstarting Autosampler w/ DSC 3-4

R

r-axisdefinition 1-10, 1-23

Rear Switches Test 6-15

requirementsequipment 1-20system 1-20

reset switch 6-4

resetting Autosampler 3-17

runcapacity 5-10definition 1-25sequence 5-10

maximum 5-10order of 5-12 to 5-13

S

sample encapsulating press 5-4, 5-19, 5-25

Sample Information Chart 5-14

sample panspreparing 5-14 to 5-28

sample traycalibrating 4-24 to 4-29description 1-12setting up 5-9 to 5-14

sample weights 5-14

Sensors test 6-9 to 6-15

service A-5

setup 2-3installing Autosampler lids 2-7 to

2-8installing dust cover 2-8

start up 3-4

stopping 3-15

storage tray. See sample tray

systemoptional components 1-20requirements 1-20

T

TA Instruments hotline A-5

technical assistance A-5

temperature range 1-5, 1-6

terminology 1-22 to 1-25testing 1-25


Index

testingAutosampler functions 6-6calibration 4-28Cycle lids 4-34Cycle Pans 6-8 to 6-9display 6-18GPIB 6-17keyboard 6-16LOAD/LIDS 4-29motion 6-19positions 6-20Rear switches 6-15Sensors 6-9 to 6-15verify 4-33

Thermal Solutionsonline help 6-46

q-axisdefinition 1-10, 1-24

toolhermetic preforming 5-26

turret assembly 6-13axes of motion 1-10description 1-10motors 1-10moving 3-7speed 3-7

U

unloadingtesting 4-34

V

Verify test 4-33

W

weightmeasuring 5-24recording 5-24

Z

z-axisdefinition 1-10, 1-24

Index


Documents

DSC Autosampler Manual - TKE · 2015-09-07 · TA INSTRUMENTS DSC AUTOSAMPLER I DSC Autosampler Operator’s Manual PN 925616.001 Rev. F (Text and Binder) PN 925616.002 Rev. F (Text