Spectrum Two HATR User's Guide . 25
Contamination Check
ATR is a surface measurement technique. Therefore, it is important that the surface of the
crystal is clean before a measurement is taken. To ensure that the crystal is clean, use the
Contamination Check. If the crystal is not properly cleaned, you may observe negative bands
in the spectra.
Cleaning the crystal
When data has been collected, clean the crystal using a cotton bud or cotton wool moistened
with an appropriate solvent. Take care not to scratch the surface of the crystal. Ensure the
crystal is completely dry before re-use.
Contamination Ready Check
NOTE: For information about setting up Ready Checks, see the Spectrum on-screen Help.
The following description assumes that Ready Checks are already set up and enabled.
To perform a Ready Check:
1.
From the Measurement menu, select the Instrument Checks sub-menu and then
Contamination
from the Ready Checks available.
The Ready Checks dialog is displayed.
2.
Make sure that you have removed your sample and cleaned the top plate, and then click
Scan
.
A new background spectrum is collected, compared to the reference background
spectrum and the result of the test is displayed.
3.
If required, click the link that enables you to see a print preview of the Instrument
Ready Checks Report.