PerkinElmer OPTIMA 8000, Customer Hardware And Service Manual

Page: 250 / 285

Troubleshooting
253
Problem Possible Cause(s) Corrective Action
Results
erroneously low Standard solutions may have
been improperly made. Rerun proven standards.
Blank solution may be
contaminated or not matrix-
matched to the standards. Remake the blank solution. Acidify the
blank if the sample matrix is acidified.
Does the matrix composition
of the samples vary from that
of the blanks and standards? If possible, prepare the standard and
blank in the same acid matrix used for
the samples. Or, internal
standardization may be required.
Is the concentration for the
second standard lower than
that for the first? Increase the Read Delay to flush the
sample introduction system completely.
Alternatively, aspirate a blank between
standards.
Is background correction being
used? Check the placement of background
correction points. Refer to the
Winlab32 Software Guide
on the
WinLab CD for details .
Are you analyzing aluminum
at 167 nm? Run a high nitrogen purge for one hour
before starting the analysis. Refer to the
Winlab32 Software Guide
on the
WinLab CD for details .
Undetectable emission
signal The sample introduction
system may not be set up
correctly, or may require
maintenance. Refer to Cleaning the Sample
Introduction System on page 144 .
The shutter may be closed. Check the shutter position set in the
software. Refer to the Winlab32
Software Guide on the WinLab CD for
details
.
Memory effects Spray chamber may not be
being drained properly, or may
need cleaning. Check drain fittings and drain tubing.
Clean the spray chamber if necessary.
Table 6-1. Performance Problems: Troubleshooting Table