Diagnostics (UltiMate 3000 Series)
Intensity Test (DAD/MWD)

Run this test to check the lamp intensity and flow cell contamination of an DAD-3000(RS) or MWD-3000(RS) detector if you notice an increase in noise or a decrease in linearity. Measured values are represented in a signal plot, and the signal minima are compared to the allowed minimum intensity limits (displayed as red lines).

If the test is run with a flow cell and the intensity is too low, repeat the test without flow cell. This allows you  to check whether the low intensity was caused by the cell used in the first place.

 Note: 

The test requires detector firmware version 1.10 or later.

Required materials and preparatory measures

The test can be run with or without a flow cell installed:

• If a flow cell is installed, use an UltiMate 3000 pump and degassed HPLC-grade water as an eluent. Install a restrictor capillary between the pump outlet and the flow cell inlet and check the pump's pressure limits. A flow rate of 1ml/min will be automatically set during the test.

• If you run the test without flow cell, remove the flow cell first, then start the test.

 Tip: 

Dionex recommends using the Diagnostics Kit for UltiMate 3000 pumps and detectors (Dionex P/N 6035.3000), which contains all the materials required for this test.

How to

This description refers to the test when a flow cell is installed. If you run the test without flow cell, options related to the flow cell and pump flow will appear dimmed.

1. On the first test page, click Next> to proceed with the settings required for the test.

    Tip: 

   If the Next> button is not active on the first test page, the pump and/or detector is not connected in Chromeleon or is in Standby mode. Connect the modules to Chromeleon before you continue by selecting the Connected check box. If a module is in Standby mode, also clear the Standby check box.

2. Optional: Enter a descriptive text in the Comments field, e.g., the reason why the test is performed.

3. Prepare the detector.

   1. Confirm that a flow cell is installed in the detector by clicking Done.

   2. Select the lamp type (UV or VIS lamp, or Both) and the slit width (narrow or wide).

   3. Confirm installation of the restrictor capillary with Done.

   4. Select the eluent channel for water.

4. Clicking Next> takes you to the next test step(s). Follow the instructions on the panel(s).

5. When the test is finished, remove the restriction capillary and confirm by clicking Done.

6. Clicking Next> takes you to the last wizard page. To view or print the report with details of the analysis, click Finish and Preview Report. Click Finish> to quit the test panel without viewing the report. For maintenance and replacement procedures, click Open Troubleshooting Guide.

    Tips: 

   After the test, the flow is set to 0. If you do not plan to continue with further tests, make sure to set a (small) pump flow or turn off the detector lamps to avoid damage to the flow cell. Confirm by clicking Done.

   If the intensity is too low, the most probable cause is a stained flow cell. Perform the test again without flow cell. If the intensity is still too low, replace the lamp.

For general information, refer to  Diagnostics (UltiMate 3000 Series).

For more diagnostic tests for UltiMate 3000 Diode Array and Multiple Wavelength Detectors, refer to:

 Holmium Oxide Test

 Dark Current Test

Slit Test