PerkinElmer RamanStation 400, Getting Started Manual

Page: 98 / 118

98 . RamanStation 400 Series Getting Started Guide
Calibration and Performance Verification SOPs
Several different automated calibration tests are included in the software, these are:
•
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 special doped 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-9: 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.
On completion of the wavelength calibration verification, a calibration verification report will
provide details on the outcome of the verification procedure.
IMPORTANT: If the instrument passes the wavelength calibration verification procedure,
the instrument is optimized for performance and does not require wavelength calibration.