PerkinElmer Frontier IR, User Manual

Page: 26 / 104

26 . Frontier IR Dual-Range Systems User's Guide
Stability of the optical system
The entire optical system is purged and sealed at the factory. A supply of desiccant placed
within the system removes any water vapor and carbon dioxide that may enter. A desiccant
indicator is fitted in the top cover, which warns you when the desiccant needs changing (an
internal humidity sensor is available as an option).
KBr windows (or polyethylene and polyethylene/diamond for the FIR range) separate the
sample compartment from the purged optical system. You can purge the sample
compartment with clean, dry, oil-free air or nitrogen. Either one removes water vapor;
however, nitrogen is preferable because it also removes atmospheric carbon dioxide.
WARNING
Do not use a flammable gas to purge the Frontier IR instruments. The
instrument contains a hot source, and a fire or explosion will result. Only
use clean, dry, oil-free nitrogen or air to purge the instrument.
The optics are kinematically mounted to ensure accurate positioning and to make them
rugged. The interferometer is enclosed and mounted on anti-vibration mounts to guard
against air and bench borne disruptions. The interferometer uses very low-friction point
bearings and a frictionless electromagnetic drive to ensure long life.
Top panel controls
The display on the front right of the top of your instrument (Figure 4) has two purposes:
• To display messages generated by the instrument’s firmware, such as those that
monitor initialization and diagnostics when the instrument is switched on.
•
To display prompts and other messages generated by Spectrum software.
The instrument’s Go button is used in concert with the displayed prompts and other
messages generated by Spectrum software. It allows you to Scan or Halt data collection
while you are away from your computer.
Figure 4 Frontier IR top panel controls
Display
Go button