Perkin-Elmer RamanStation 400 Series, Getting Started Manual

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80 . RamanStation 400 Series Getting Started Guide
Calibration and Performance Verification SOPs
Several different automated calibration tests are included in the software:
•
Wavelength (x-axis) calibration uses the position of precisely known lines in a neon
emission spectrum to calibrate the detector.
• Intensity (y-axis) calibration is performed using coated glass with a well characterized
emission spectrum, this is used to correct for non-linearity in detector response.
• Laser frequency determines the exact laser wavelength.
An additional wavelength calibration verification routine has been included in the software,
which compares a series of peaks for polystyrene (ASTM E 1840) with values collected using
a polystyrene sample. These calibration/validation tests allow for in-house instrument
performance verification.
Intensity calibration is only performed if the instrument has been moved or as part of an
annual service, or if there have been appreciable temperature variations in the local
environment, or following a service repair of the instrument or accessories.
NOTE: The sample compartment lid must be kept closed during all stages of calibration.
Backgrounds are always collected during a calibration procedure. The background measures
the bias and dark signal over the selected area of the CCD. This is a necessary part of the
calibration routines, so it is always performed.
The spectrometer has no moving parts in its detection system; therefore frequent calibration
is not necessary.
We recommend that you calibrate the instrument in accordance with the following SOP.
SOP-8: Calibration/Performance Verification
We recommend that wavelength calibration verification is performed on a regular basis to
ensure that the instrument is performing within specification. This can be once a day or once
a week depending on your requirements and the laboratory environment.
When carrying out the calibration/verification procedures, the instrument laser power should
be set to 100% and the Data Interval to 2 cm
−1
or smaller. You can perform these
procedures with any accessory. The examples given in these SOPs assume that the
RamanStation 400 sample compartment is used.
The intensity calibration should be performed for each Accessory. In the case of the
RamanMicro 300 Accessory, an intensity calibration is required for each objective lens.
On completion of the wavelength calibration verification, the result of the verification
procedure is displayed. A spectrum detailing the outcome of the verification procedure is
saved to the folder …\pel_data\config\Raman\Calibration Files\Logs with the filename
Calibration Report [Name of calibration][Date].sp
IMPORTANT: If the instrument passes the wavelength calibration verification procedure,
the instrument is optimized for performance and does not require
wavelength calibration.