ThermoFisher Scientific Vanquish VC-D50, Operating Manual

Page: 106 / 188

6 • Operation
Page 106 Fluorescence Detectors (VC-D50, VC-D51, VF-D50, VF-D51)
Operating Manual
6.9 Optimizing the Performance of the Device
This section provides information for best performance of the device
and gives hints on what you can do to optimize the performance further.
Fluorescence Method Development Handbook
Basic information about how to optimize the detector performance can
be obtained from the following sections of this Operating Manual. In
addition, the Fluorescence Method Development Handbook that is
shipped with the detector guides you through the different method
development and optimization steps, recommends the most suitable
procedures, and explains optical effects that might be observed.
See also
2 Important Operating Parameters ( } page 104)
6.9.1 General Guidelines
Consider the following guidelines for optimization of the device
performance:
• Make sure that the grade of the solvent is compatible with the
specific application. In many cases, selecting fluorescence-grade
solvents should serve the need for low background fluorescence.
However, your normal HPLC-grade solvents may also be suitable.
• In general, fluorescence detection has different requirements for
solvent quality compared to UV detection. Fluorescing contaminants
or particles may cause background fluorescence and stray light, and
thus increase noise and reduce the dynamic range of the detector.
• Experience shows that the solvent suitability for an application
strongly depends on the selected detection wavelengths and the
required detection performance limits. For information and
guidance on how to test the background fluorescence on your
mobile phase, refer to the Fluorescence Method Development
Handbook.
• Degas the solvent.
• Consider the influences of the parameters on the detection.
• Keep the device doors closed during operation to avoid exposure of
the flow cell to thermal changes in the environment that may lead to
a baseline drift.
Monitor the lamp age (see Monitoring the Lamp Age ( } page 131) ) and
schedule appropriate maintenance intervals.