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Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting
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TSQ Quantum XLS Series User Guide
Thermo Scientific
• Did you change the configuration of the system, cables, or peripherals just before the
problem occurred?
If the answer is yes to the first item above, there is the possibility of a hardware failure, and
running the diagnostics is appropriate.
If the answer is yes to either of the last two questions above, the problem is probably
mechanical, not electrical. Reconfirm that alignment, configurations, and cable connections
are correct before you call the Thermo Fisher Scientific field service engineer. Keep careful
notes documenting the nature of the problem and the corrective steps you have taken. If you
are not successful in correcting the problem, you can e-mail this information to your service
engineer. Field Services can then do a preliminary evaluation of the problem before the field
service engineer arrives at your site.
Troubleshooting
The following topics discuss possible TSQ Quantum XLS Series system problems and
solutions.
Communication Issues
Communication issues likely involve links between the data system and the mass
spectrometer, gas chromatograph, or autosampler. This section does not address
communication issues with other devices.
Communication issues can occur during the following:
• Data transfer between the mass spectrometer and the data system
• Mass spectrometer, gas chromatograph, and autosampler current status readbacks
• Instrument control, method downloading, and uploading
• Start, stop, pause, and initialize functions
• Error messages
How does the MS communication work?
The flow of digital information in the TSQ Quantum XLS Series systems is bidirectional; the
data system downloads analytical methods to the instrument and activates functions to start,
stop, shut down, start up, and initialize. The TSQ Quantum XLS Series systems report their
readiness state, current tasks, various voltages, heated zones, and pressure readings. They also
deliver a steady stream of mass spectral data during acquisition.