Operation
Agilent Electrothermal Temperature Controller ETC 60 User’s Guide
35
Unattended Operation
As there is no flame present, you can use the AA spectrometer, VGA 77, ETC 60,
and an autosampler for unattended operation.
CAUTION
When performing unattended operations ensure that all waste connections are
securely mated and that waste containers are large enough to accommodate all
of the waste that will be generated during the unattended run period.
When an AA system is operated unattended, the VGA should be powered through a
timer socket. When the timer elapses, all power to the VGA is turned off, shutting
down the peristaltic pump of the VGA and saving reagents.
NOTE
Even when the power switched off, approximately 50 mL/min of inert gas will flow
through the VGA.
Timer sockets are available from most commercial electrical or department stores.
You should carefully check that the equipment connected to the timer socket does
not exceed the rated capacity of the socket.
When calculating the required setting for a timer switch, be sure to consider the
time taken for on-going instrument calibration. The operational time can be
calculated and a further time added to this (15–30 minutes). The switch off time
can then be set on the timer.
Shutdown Procedure
To shut down your AA system:
2
Turn off the ETC 60.
3
Leave the VGA 77 on. Place the uptake capillary tubes in distilled water and
leave the VGA running for five minutes to flush the system.
4
Remove the uptake tubes and let the VGA pump air for one minute. Turn off the
VGA and release the pump beds. Refer to the VGA 77 manual for details.
5
Turn off the inert gas.
