AS9N010B.STB AS-93plus Service Manual.fm - LIQUID-scan GmbH ...

AA Business Unit 

Service Information 

Author: Bernhard Conrads No: AS9N010B.STB 

Tel.: +49-7551-81-3720 Pages: 68 

e-mail: bernhard_conrads@eur.perkin-elmer.com Date: 09. May 2000 

This document contains proprietry information and may only be used by the recipient for the prescribed purposes and 

may be neither reproduced in any form nor the document itself or its contents divulged to third parties without our 

expressed prior written permission. All rights reserved. 

AS-93plus Service Manual 

Problem 

N/A 

Purpose 

The autosampler model AS-91 stand-alone P/N B050-9090 has been discontinued and 

replaced with the new model AS-93plus. This document shall provide the field with 

service information. 

Note This revision "B" of the AS-93plus Service Manual contains significant 

changes of the rinse kit which have been introduced to provide a better support 

of ICP/ICP-MS applications plus a few minor corrections. The previous revision 

"A" of this document is obsolete and should be discarded. 

Material Required 

N/A 

General 

Procedure 

N/A 

Note Refer to SDB AS9N009A.STB for electrical schematics as the PC Boards 

respectively the electrical schematics are identical with the autosampler 

AS-90plus. 

Note Refer to SDB AS9N011A.SPB containing the illustrated spare parts list. 

AS-93plus Service Manual No: AS9N010B.STB

Table of Content 

Contents page 

Problem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 

Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 

Material Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 

General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 

Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 

Table of Content . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 

Introduction and System Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 

Matched to the customers need . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 

Key benefits: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 

Fast, accurate random access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 

Large, flexible sample capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 

Standard rack configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 

Corrosion-resistant sampling components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 

Automatic rinsing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 

Sample racks and sample trays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 

The following sample tray groups can be selected: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 

Further sample racks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 

Tray definition files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 

Quick Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 

Technical data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 

Unpacking and inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 

Carton recycling instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 

Checklist of the AS-93plus Accessory Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 

Checklist of the Rinsing Kit B314-0236 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 

Assembling sample racks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 

Positioning the autosampler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 

Electrical connectors and switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 

The DIP switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 

To set the DIP switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 

Example for setting an IEEE address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 

Selecting the IEEE-488 interface on the AS-93plus: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 

Selecting the RS-232C interface on the AS-93plus: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 

Connecting the autosampler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 

To fit the sampling probe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 

Adjusting the sampling probe height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 

Connecting the sample tube . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 

To connect the sample tube to the sampling probe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 

To connect the sample tube to the nebulizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 

Normal connection procedure: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 

Alternate connection procedure: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 

Installing the sample racks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 

Installing PerkinElmer sample racks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 

Sample rack locations for the sample tray groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 

Installing Gilson sample racks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 

Setting up the rinsing port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 

Connecting the tubing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 

Pump tubes and retaining hooks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 

Tubing configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 

2 of 68 AS9N010B.STB

Configuration 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 



Fitting pump tubes to the rinse pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 

Installing the rinsing port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 

Function test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 

AS-93plus Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 

Installation of the AS-93 utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 

Start the AS-93 utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 

Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 

Tray Download . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 

How to create a tray definition file . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 

Rinse Download . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49 

Firmware Download . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 

Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51 

Alignment of the AS-93plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52 

Alignment using TERMINAL.EXE and ADJ93.TRM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52 

Kinds of positional misalignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 

Correction of a parallel misalignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 

Correction of a X/Y-offset misalignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58 

Checking the Event Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61 

Internal Cyclic tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61 

Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63 

Firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 

Direct commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 

Identification Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 

Reset Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 

Tray commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 

Pump Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65 

X-, Y-, Z- Drive commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65 

Event Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66 

AS-93plus Error Code Reference Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 

AS9N010B.STB 3 of 68

Introduction and System Description 

Matched to the customers need 

The PerkinElmer AS-93plus autosampler is a computer-controlled, multi-purpose 

sampling system for flame AA, ICP-OES and ICP-MS. The AS-93plus automates 

standard and sample introduction for instrument calibration and sample analysis, 

extending the spectrometer’s capabilities to those of a fully automated analytical 

workstation. The AS-93plus is computer-controlled using PerkinElmer AA WinLab, 

ICP WinLab or ELAN ® software. 

The autosampler is operated from the keyboard and screen of the spectrometer system; 

the autosampler itself does not have any operating controls. 

The autosampler does not incorporate any device for active sample aspiration but merely 

moves its sampling probe into the individual containers with the calibration and sample 

solutions. For solution aspiration the sampling probe must be connected via a sample 

tube to an active module. An active module can, for example, be the nebulizer of an AAS 

burner, the pump of a flow injection system, or the pump of an ICP nebulizer assembly. 

Tower 

Sampling probe 

Rinsing 

port 

Plug-in 

power supply 

. . 

. 

Rinse 

pump 

Figure 1 Schematic of the Autosampler 

Autosampler arm 

Sample table 

Sample tube 

Removable 

sample racks 


Key benefits: 

• fast, accurate random access 

• large, flexible sample capacity 

• standard rack configurations 

• corrosion-resistant sampling components 

• automatic rinsing 

Fast, accurate random access 

An advanced drive system moves the sampling arm of the AS-93plus in the X and Y 

coordinates simultaneously, minimizing changeover time between samples. High 

precision digital stepper motors move the AS-93plus sampling arm to its programmed 

X-Y-Z coordinates quickly and accurately. Random access programming gives the user 

exceptional flexibility in locating different samples and calibration solutions. 

Large, flexible sample capacity 

Sample capacity with the AS-93plus is up to 200 samples per sample rack. Sample racks 

are easily interchanged, reducing analysis set-up times and giving the user the flexibility 

to use differently sized sample vessels matched to his analytical needs. 

Standard rack configurations 

In addition to the variety of sample racks offered by PerkinElmer, the AS-93plus is also 

compatible with commonly used laboratory sample rack configurations from other 

manufacturers, such as Scienceware or Gilson. 

Corrosion-resistant sampling components 

The sample probe assembly, including the sample transport capillary tubing, is made 

entirely of acid- and solvent-resistant PTFE. 

Automatic rinsing 

The autosampler includes a flow-through rinsing port so that the sampling probe is always 

rinsed with fresh rinse liquid, significantly reducing the risk of carryover. This is especially 

advantageous when samples with very different element concentrations have to be 

analyzed. Rinse liquid is pumped in a stream through the rinsing port by a peristaltic pump 

that is built into the autosampler. The pump operates during the rinse phase of the 

measurement cycle (i.e. every time that the sampling probe enters the rinsing port) and is 

idle during other phases of the cycle. You can select or change for how long the rinse 

pump is switched on via the Rinse download utility. 


Sample racks and sample trays 

The autosampler offers exceptional sample handling capacity. Various, easily removable, 

sample racks allow a variety of differently sized sample containers to be used. Three 

PerkinElmer sample racks can be installed on the autosampler. Within the WinLab 

software a sample tray is defined as a group of three racks. 

The following sample tray groups can be selected: 

Tray group E 

Rinsing port 

location 

B314-0621 B314-0617 (2x) 

This group (option) comprises the following sample racks: 

• Rack B314-0621 (rinsing-port rack) with rinsing port location (location 0) and 20 

locations for 50 mL solution containers (calibration and/or test sample 

solutions). 

• Rack B314-0617 (2x) each with 90 locations for 6 mL and 8 mL solution 

containers (test sample solutions). 


Tray group F 

This group (provided as standard) comprises the following sample racks: 

• Rack B300-1647 (rinsing-port rack) with rinsing port location (location 0), 

8 locations for 50mL solution containers (calibration and/or test sample 

solutions), and 29 locations for 15 mL solution containers (test sample 

solutions). 

• Rack B314-0618 (2x) each with 60 locations for 15mL solution containers (test 

sample solutions). 

Tray group G 

Rinsing port 

location 

Rinsing port 

location 

B300-1647 B314-0618 (2x) 

B314-0621 (3x) 

This group (option) comprises the following sample racks: 

• Rack B314-0621 (3x) with 21 locations each for 50mL solution containers 

(calibration and/or test sample solutions). 

Location 0 in the first rack is for the rinsing port. 


Further sample racks 

In addition to the above sample racks, you can also use racks offered by Gilson. To install 

the Gilson racks on the autosampler you require an adapter plate (option). Four Gilson 

racks can be installed on the autosampler. Please note that the Gilson racks cannot be 

obtained from PerkinElmer. 

Further sample racks can be offered for special applications. Please refer to the current 

price lists for information. 

Tray definition files 

A tray definition file provides the system with information about the group of sample racks 

installed on the autosampler. The system requires this information to move the sampling 

probe to the correct location for each container in the rack. You select the required sample 

tray group in the spectrometer’s operating software when you set up the autosampler. 

The spectrometer operating software already contains tray definition files for the 

PerkinElmer sample tray groups E, F, and G. 

Tray definition files are also included with the autosampler for each of the sample tray 

groups that can be selected. 

Further information on tray definition files is provided on page 47. 

Quick Reference 

A slot is provided underneath the autosampler into which you can insert the 

Quick Reference. We recommend that you keep the Quick Reference with the 

autosampler at all times since it contains maintenance information and a list of 

replacement parts. 


Technical data 

System design Compact computer-controlled system for automatic solution 

withdrawal for atomic spectrometric applications. 

System control Control is via the same software that is used to control the 

spectrometer system. 

Chemical resistance The autosampler surfaces are resistant to dilute acids and 

alkalis, and to a lesser extent to strong acids and alkalis and 

organic solvents. 


movement 

Vertical:145mm 

Horizontal:X-axis (left–right)302mm 

Y-axis (front–back)222mm 

Resolution:0.1 mm ± 4% 

Speed:typically 3s from one location to the next. 

RS232C and IEEE-488. 

Communication 

interfaces 

Power requirements 40V; provided by the plug-in power supply. 

Electrical protection As defined in EN 61010-1-1993 (IEC 1010-1): 

Insulation: Class I 

Insulation category (overvoltage category): II 

Pollution degree: 2 

Safety and EMC As defined in EN 61010-1-1993 (IEC 1010-1: 1990 + A1 + 

standards A2) and 

EN 61010-2-061:1996. 

Electromagnetic compatibility: EN 61326-1:1997. 

Environmental Ambient temperature: +15 °C to +35 °C, 

requirements 20–80% relative humidity, non-condensing. 

Dimensions 420mm wide x 370mm high x 333mm deep. 

Mass (weight) approx. 4kg 

Specifications of the plug-in power supply 

Intended use 

Electrical 

requirements 

Plugs 

Output 

Safety standards 

EMC standards 

Power supply for information technology and similar 

equipment. 

100–240 VAC, 47–63Hz 

The plug-in power supply is provided with 4 interchangeable 

plugs compliant with European, UK, USA, and Australian 

standards. 

40VDC, 700mA 

As defined in EN 60950. 

EN 55011, EN 55014, and EN 55022/B; 

EN 6100-3-2, -3, EN 6100-4-2, -3, -4, -5, -6, -11. 


Unpacking and inspection 

The autosampler is shipped in a single packing carton. 

After you receive the autosampler, unpack the components carefully: 

1. Open the carton and remove the bags containing the sample containers. 

2. Remove the top foam piece from the carton. 

3. Take out the small parts and then remove the foam piece. 

4. The autosampler is now accessible. 

Carefully lift it out and place it on the bench. 

Do not lift it by the autosampler arm or the tower. 

5. Remove packing material from the autosampler. 

6. Examine the components for any signs of damage during shipment. 

In the event of damage, file an immediate claim with the authorized carrier, 

and inform your local PerkinElmer office or representative. 

A list of parts provided is given on next page. 

Carton recycling instructions 

Caution: Risk of damage to the instrument 

• Never lift the autosampler by the autosampler arm or tower. 

Tower 


The carton can be folded down for easy storage. You can store the carton for future use 

(to transport the instrument), recycle it by returning it to PerkinElmer, or break it down 

completely and give it to your local recycling center. 


Checklist of the AS-93plus Accessory Kit 

Table 1 Checklist of the AS-93plus accessory kit 

Qty. Item Part No. 

1 Plug-in power supply 0999-8283 

1 Communication cable (autosampler to spectrometer) B314-4034 

1 Sample rack B300-1647 

2 Sample racks B314-0618 

1 Sampling probe B300-0055 

1 Sampling tube (0.6 mm i.d.) with screw fittings B300-0158 

1 Sample tube (1 mm i.d.) with screw fittings B019-1060 

1 Adapter F B019-3873 

2 Polyethylene bottles, 2000 mL B010-4344 

1 Cleaning wire (40cm) B050-5962 

1 Rinsing kit (refer to table 2 for details) B314-0236 

1 Pack of 50 sample containers, 15 mL, 

polypropylene with screw caps 

1 Pack of 50 sample containers, 50 mL, 

polypropylene with screw caps 

B050-0662 

B050-1397 

1 User’s Guide 0993-5278 

1 Quick Reference 0993-5279 

1 AS-93 Utility Disk B314-0758 


Checklist of the Rinsing Kit B314-0236 

Table 2 The rinsing kit B314-0236 includes the following items: 

Qty. Item Part No. 

1 Rinsing port, pre-assembled B314-0622 

1 Pump tube (pack of six), collars red-red, 1.14 mm i.d. B314-0730 

1 Pump tube (pack of six), purple-white, 2.79 mm i.d. B314-0721 

1 m Tygon® drain tube 6.4 x 1.6 B050-9650 

1 m PVC tube B004-8139 

0.1 m PVC tube B004-8139 

0.1 m Silicone tube B001-8283 

1 Rinse liquid feed tube with weight B019-1059 

1 Connector, reducing 3.2 mm to 1.7 mm B019-9233 

2 Connector, 4.5 mm to 4.5 mm B314-0715 

1 Adapter A B019-3342 

1 Adapter C B019-6850 

1 Adapter E B019-6857 

2 Adapter M B050-7919 

1 Silicone Oil, Bottle of 5 mL B314-0341 


Assembling sample racks 

For easy shipment, sample racks are often folded flat. Follow the procedure below to 

assemble a sample rack. 

Edge tab 

End plate 

Lugs 

Slot tabs 

Figure 2 Assembling a Sample Rack 

Certain sample racks have numbered tiers (more information: see ‘Sample tray group F’, 

page 26 and see ‘Sample tray group G’, page27 . When you assemble a rack, make sure 

that the set of numbers that you require faces upward on the top tier. 

1. Place the base on the bench so that the lugs are underneath. 

2. Bend up the two end plates. 

End plate 

Top tier 

Middle tier 

3. Take the middle tier and snap the edge tabs into the lower set of slots 

in the end plates. 

4. Bend up the slot tabs on the sides of the base and snap the edge tabs 

of the middle tier into the slots. 

5. Assemble the top tier into the respective slots in the same manner. 

AS9N010B.STB 13 of 68 

Base

Positioning the autosampler 

The autosampler requires the same environmental conditions as the spectrometer. 

Please refer to the guide provided with your spectrometer for details. 

When used alone, the autosampler is connected directly to the nebulizer’s sample tube. 

Since the length of the sample tube has an influence on the aspiration rate of the 

nebulizer, you should position the autosampler as close to the spectrometer as possible. 

The best position is on a suitable table or trolley (cart) in front of the spectrometer’s 

atomizer compartment. With some spectrometers it is possible to place the autosampler 

on a sample tray directly in front of the atomizer compartment. 

If you are using a diluter system, such as the AutoPrep-50, you can place this next to the 

autosampler to keep the sample tubes as short as possible. 

Autosampler 

Spectrometer 

Nebulizer 

Sample tube 

Figure 3 Suggested Arrangement for the System (1) 


Diluter 

(option) 

Autosampler 

Figure 4 Suggested Arrangement for the System (2) 

Electrical connectors and switches 

The connectors and switches are located on the underside of the autosampler. 

Table 3 Electrical connectors and switches 

Item Designation Function 

Spectrometer 

Nebulizer 

Sample tube 

Autosampler sample tube 

1 2 3 4 5 

1 Power Power input socket; for 40V supply from plug-in power supply. 

2 Event Potential-free relay contact to activate an external system. 

3 Com 2 RS232C communication port. 

4 –– DIP switches (see next page for more details). 

5 Com 1 IEEE-488 communication port. 


The DIP switches 

You use the DIP switches to select the required communication parameters such as the 

interface and, where applicable, the instrument address for the IEEE interface. 

For the AS-93plus the DIP switches have the following functions and values: 

To set the DIP switches 

ON 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 

The DIP switches 

Switch Function Value 

ON OFF 

(up) (down) 

1 1 0 

2 Switches 1–4 set the instrument address for the 2 0 

3 IEEE-488 communication interface. 

4 0 

4 8 0 

5 Switches 5, 6 and 7 select service programs for use OFF 

6 by a PerkinElmer engineer. In normal operation OFF 

7 they must be set to OFF (down). 

OFF 

8 Switch 8 selects between the RS-232C and the 

IEEE-488 interfaces. 

IEEE RS-232 


Electronic components may be damaged if you change the DIP 

switch settings when the instrument is switched on. 

• Switch off the instrument before you change the DIP switch 

settings. 

Altered settings on the DIP switches become effective the next time you switch the 

instrument on. 

Example for setting an IEEE address: 

You add the values of the DIP switches to obtain the address. To select an IEEE address 

of 14, for example, set the DIP switches 1–4 as shown below: 

ON 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 

Address = 14 

(= 0+2+4+8) 


The usual addresses preselected for the autosampler in the spectrometer operating software are: 

AA WinLab 14, 3, or 7 

ICP WinLab 14 

ICP-MS 7 

Selecting the IEEE-488 interface on the AS-93plus: 

1. Set the DIP switches as follows: 

Selecting the RS-232C interface on the AS-93plus: 

1. Set all DIP switches to OFF. 

Switches 5, 6, 7, and 8 must be set to OFF. Switches 1 through 4 can be in 

any arbitrary position, but we recommend that you set them to OFF. 

Connecting the autosampler 

1–4 Set to the address selected for the 

autosampler (e.g. 14). 

5–7 Set to OFF. 

8 Set to ON. 

This section describes how you connect the autosampler to your spectrometer system. 

The procedure for connecting the spectrometer and the computer are described in the 

spectrometer guide. 

Warning: Electrical Hazard 

• To prevent potential injury to yourself and damage to the instrument, switch 

OFF all instruments in the system and disconnect them from the line power 

supply before you perform the procedures described below. 

1. Switch OFF the spectrometer and other components in the system and 

disconnect them from the line power supply. 

2. Place the autosampler in front of the spectrometer’s atomizer compartment 

see ‘Positioning the autosampler’, page14. 

3. Select IEEE-488 communication and the address on the DIP switches, see 

‘The DIP switches’, page16. 

4. Connect the communication cable (B314-4034), provided, between the Com1 

port on the underside of the autosampler and the IEEE-488 communication port 

at the spectrometer (refer to the Spectrometer Guide for details). The cables 

are provided with stacked connectors. 

5. Check that the plug fitted to the plug-in power supply is suitable for the 

electrical outlets in your laboratory. 

If it is not: 

1. Slide off the plug fitted to the power supply. 

2. Slide in the correct plug, making sure that it clicks fully into place. 

Four interchangeable plugs are provided, compliant with European, UK, USA, and 

Australian standards. 


W2.3

Communication 

cable 

(B314-4034) 

Plug-in 

power supply 

Figure 5 Electrical Connections: AS-93plus Autosampler to Spectrometer with IEEE 

Communication 

6. Connect the system to the line power supply: 

1. Connect the autosampler to the line power supply using the plugin 

power supply provided. The plug-in power supply uses a widerange 

input of 100–240V, 47–63Hz. 

2. Connect the spectrometer and other components in the system to 

the line power supply. 

Note To avoid problems of interference caused by earth loops, always connect 

the spectrometer, computer, printer and other components to the same phase of 

the line power supply. The most convenient method is to use a multisocket 

distributor. 

To fit the sampling probe 

IEEE-488 

communication port 

Power 

Spectrometer 

Autosampler 

Com 1 

7. Switch on all components of the system, following the routine in the 

Spectrometer Guide. 

After you have completed the installation and electrical connections of the autosampler, 

fit the sampling probe as follows: 


Caution: Risk of damage to the autosampler components 

• When you fit the sampling probe, take care not to press 

forcefully in any direction on the autosampler arm since this can 

damage the arm. 

• The sampling probe is a complete assembly. Do not attempt to 

take the probe apart since this can damage it; reassembly is not 

possible. 

1. If not already done, carefully insert the sampling probe guide from above into 

the sampling probe holder on the autosampler arm and push it down fully. 

2. Carefully insert the sampling probe from above into the probe guide. 

Push the sampling probe down until about 20 mm protrude from the bottom 

end of the probe guide. 

Use the O-ring on the probe to prevent it from slipping down. 

After you have fitted the sampling probe, adjust the height as described in the next 

section. 

Note The standard sampling probe is a PTFE-lined epoxy polymer tube. This 

polymer is resistant to the acids, alkalis and organic solvents normally used in 

atomic spectroscopy. If your samples contain an organic solvent that attacks this 

polymer, a PTFE-lined stainless steel sampling probe is offered as an option 

(P/N B300-0152). 

Tower 

Sampling probe guide 


. 

Holder 

approx. 

20 mm 

Figure 6 Fitting the Sampling Probe 

Sample tube 

Screw connector 

O-ring 



Adjusting the sampling probe height 

Note The procedure described below assumes that you are using a 

spectrometer operated via the AA WinLab software. If you are using an ICP or 

ICP-MS instrument, please refer to the information on operating an autosampler 

in the online help for the respective instrument. 

1. Install the rinsing-port sample rack on the autosampler, see ‘Installing the 

sample racks’, page24. 

2. Place the rinsing port in the rinse location (location zero) in the sample rack 

see ‘Setting up the rinsing port’, page30. 

3. On the Analyze page, click on Select Location. 

Select Go to wash and then click on OK. 

4. The sampling probe moves to above the rinsing port and is then lowered. 

5. Carefully push the sampling probe down until it bottoms in the rinsing port. 

Then pull the sampling probe up by about 5mm. Use the O-ring on the probe 

to prevent it from slipping down. 

The sampling probe is now at the correct height. 

6. To remove the sample rack, first click on Load Tray to raise the sampling probe, 

then remove the rack. 

This completes installation of the sampling probe. Connect the sample tube between the 

sampling probe and the spectrometer’s sample input system as described on the following 

pages. 


Rinsing port 

5 mm 

Figure 7 Adjusting the Sampling Probe Height 

20 of 68 AS9N010B.STB 

.

Connecting the sample tube 

The sample uptake rate is governed by the internal diameter of the sample tube. Two 

sample tubes with different internal diameters are provided with the autosampler. Each 

sample tube has a screw connector on one end for connection to the sampling probe and 

a screw connector on the other end for connection to the nebulizer via an adapter. 

You use the sample tube with 0.6mm internal diameter (B300-0158) for routine samples. 

You use the sample tube with 1mm internal diameter (B019-1060) if you are operating 

the burner system with a High Performance Nebulizer; this sample tube allows the 

nebulizer to attain its maximum performance. 

To connect the sample tube to the sampling probe 

Tower cover 

. 

Depending on how you position the autosampler with respect to the rest of the system, 

you can attach the sample tube to either the front of the autosampler arm or the rear of 

the tower cover. A spring clip with two slots is provided to hold the sample tube; the 

narrower slot holds the 0.6 mm tube, while the wider slot holds the 1mm tube. 

1. Screw the connector on the sample tube finger-tight into the fitting on 

the sampling probe. 

2. Make a smooth loop in the sample tube and then attach it to either the 

front of the autosampler arm or the rear of the tower cover: 

1. Insert the spring clip into the appropriate socket. 

2. Thread the sample tube gently around the hook in the correct slot. 

Note Do not kink or pinch the sample tube. 

Spring clip 

with two slots 

Note The loop must be large enough so that the sampling probe holder can 

move unhindered backward and forward along the autosampler arm. 


To connect the sample tube to the nebulizer 

The following procedure describes how you connect the sample tube to the nebulizer of 

an AAS burner system. If you are using an ICP or ICP-MS spectrometer system, please 

refer to the guide provided with the system for information on how to connect the sample 

tube to the nebulizer-spray chamber assembly. 

Normal connection procedure: 

Note Do not kink or pinch the sample tube. 

1. Take the free end of sample tube from the autosampler to the 

nebulizer. 

2. Connect the sample tube to the nebulizer: 

1. Shorten the nebulizer’s existing sample tube (capillary) so that the 

length is about 50 mm. 

2. Connect adapter F (B019-3873, provided) to the shortened sample 

tube. 

3. Screw the connector on the autosampler sample tube into adapter 

F. 

3. Make certain that the sampling probe can move freely to all locations 

in the sample racks. 

Shortened nebulizer sample tube 

Autosampler 

sample tube with 

screw connector 

Adapter F 

Nebulizer 


Alternate connection procedure: 

Adapter F contains a Pt/Ir capillary. If you are aspirating very aggressive samples 

(containing hydrofluoric acid for example) or if the samples should not contact metal, you 

can connect the sample tube directly to the nebulizer without using the adapter. The 

procedure is described below. 

Note Do not kink or pinch the sample tube. When you cut it, make a clean cut 

with a scalpel – do not use scissors. 

1. Take the free end of sample tube from the autosampler to the 

nebulizer. 

Cut off the screw connector from the end of the sample tube. 

If the sample tube is longer than necessary, shorten it to the required 

length, but make certain that it is long enough so that the sampling 

probe can move freely to all locations in the sample racks. 

Note An 0.6mm i.d. sample tube with only one connector is offered as an option 

(P/N B300-0157). With this sample tube it is not necessary to cut off the screw 

connector. 

2. Connect the free end of the sample tube to the nebulizer: 

1. Standard nebulizers: 

Connect the sample tube to the nebulizer inlet, 

using a cleaning wire to aid installation (refer to 

the Spectrometer Guide for details). 

- or - 

2. GemTip nebulizers: 

Insert the sample tube into the PTFE tube located 

in the gland nut of the nebulizer (refer to the 

Spectrometer Guide for details). 

Gland nut 

Insert sample tube 

into PTFE tube 


Installing the sample racks 

Installing PerkinElmer sample racks 

For easy shipment, the sample racks are often folded flat. The procedure for assembling 

the racks is described in ’Assembling sample racks on page 13’. 

To install the racks: 


If the sample racks installed on the autosampler are not the correct 

ones for the sample tray selected in the WinLab software, the 

sampling probe may strike against a rack rather than enter a 

sample location. 

• Always make sure that the correct racks are installed. 

Note The procedures described below assumes that you are using a 

spectrometer operated via the AA WinLab software. If you are using an ICP or 

ICP-MS instrument, please refer to the information on operating an autosampler 

in the online help for the respective instrument. 

1. Start AA WinLab (or the operating software specific to the 

spectrometer). 

2. Select the sample racks that make up the sample tray group you 

intend to use more information: page 25. 

3. In the WinLab software, select the required sample tray group: 

1. Open the correct method. 

2. Display the Method Editor window. 

3. On the Calibration - Autosampler page, select the correct group of 

sample racks under Tray Type (E, F, or G). 

4. Load the sample racks with the calibration and sample solutions. 

Carefully note the location of each solution in the racks see ‘Sample 

rack locations for the sample tray groups’, page25. 

5. If required, drive the autosampler arm to the load tray position: 

1. Display the Automated Analysis window. 

2. On the Analyze page, click on Load Tray. 

If the autosampler arm is not currently in the load tray position, the arm rises 

and is moved to the origin at the rear of the sample table. In this position the 

sampling probe does not hinder installation or removal of the sample racks. 


6. Install the sample racks on the autosampler: 

1. Place the rinsing-port rack on the left-hand side of the sample table 

such that the rinsing port is at the rear left (as seen from the front 

of the autosampler). Make sure that the lugs on the bottom of the 

sample rack fit into the slots in the sample table. 

2. Place the other two sample racks in the correct sequence on the 

sample table. 

Note Sample racks can be placed on the sample table in two directions. 

Make certain that you place each sample rack in the proper direction so that the 

solutions are worked down in the correct sequence. 

7. To remove sample racks, first click on Load Tray to raise the sampling 

probe, then remove the racks. 

Sample rack locations for the sample tray groups 

The rack locations for the various sample tray groups are depicted on the following pages. 

The autosampler works down the sample locations in numerical sequence. 

Sample tray group E 

Rinsing 

port 

0 

1 

2 

3 

4 

5 

6 

7 

8 

9 

10 

11 

12 

13 

14 

15 

16 

17 

18 

19 

20 

Rack B314-0621:21 locations (30 mm diam.) for 50mL containers, 

one location (0) can be used for the rinsing port. 

Rack B314-0617:90 locations (13 mm square) for 6mL or 8 mL sample containers. 

Tray definition file for this group of racks: AS93E200.tra 

21 

22 

23 

24 

25 

26 

27 

28 

29 

30 

31 

32 

33 

34 

35 

36 

37 

38 

39 

40 

41 

42 

43 

44 

45 

46 

47 

48 

49 

50 

51 

52 

53 

54 

55 

56 

57 

58 

59 

60 

61 

62 

63 

64 

65 

66 

67 

68 

69 

70 

71 

72 

73 

74 

75 

76 

77 

78 

79 

80 


81 

82 

83 

84 

96 

97 

98 

99 

85 100 

86 101 

87 102 

88 103 

89 104 

90 105 

91 106 

92 107 

93 108 

94 109 

95 110 

Rack B314-0621 Rack B314-0617 (2x) 

111 126141 

156 171 186 

112 127142 

157 172 187 

113 128143 

158 173 188 

114 129144 

159 174 189 

115 130145 

160 175 190 

116 131146 

161 176 191 

117 132147 

162 177 192 

118 133148 

163 178 193 

119 134149 

164 179 194 

120 135150 

165 180 195 

121 136151 

166 181 196 

122 137152 

167 182 197 

123 138153 

168 183 198 

124 139154 

169 184 199 

125 140155 

170 185 200

Note The proprietary sample racks are not marked. We suggest that you mark 

the racks to denote the first location in the rack for easy orientation when installing 

the racks on the autosampler. 

Sample tray group F 

Rinsing 

port 

0 

1 

2 

3 

4 

5 

6 

7 

8 

9 

10 

11 

12 

13 

14 

15 

16 

17 

18 

19 

20 

21 

22 

23 

24 

25 

Rack B300-1647:9 locations (30mm diam.) for 50mL containers, one location (0) can be 

used for the rinsing port; 29 locations (16 mm diam.) for 15mL sample containers. 

Rack B314-0618:60 locations (16mm diam.) for 15 mL sample containers. 

Tray definition file for this group of racks: AS93F157.tra 

26 

27 

28 

29 

30 

31 

32 

33 

34 

35 

36 

37 

38 

39 

40 

41 

42 

43 

44 

45 

46 

47 

48 

49 

50 

51 

52 

53 

54 

55 

56 

57 

58 

59 

60 

61 

Rack B300-1647 Rack B314-0618 (2x) 

62 

63 

64 

65 

66 

67 

68 

69 

70 

71 

72 

73 

Note The top tier of rack B314-0618 is numbered on both sides; one side is 

numbered 38–97 and the other side is numbered 98–157. When you assemble a 

rack you can turn the tier over to obtain the set of numbers that you require. 


74 

75 

76 

77 

78 

79 

80 

81 

82 

83 

84 

85 

86 

87 

88 

89 

90 

91 

92 

93 

94 

95 

96 

97 

98 110 122 134 146 

99 

111 

123 

135 

147 

100 112 124 136 148 

101 113 125 137 149 

102 114 126 138 150 

103 115 127 139 151 

104 116 128 140 152 

105 117 129 141 153 

106 118 130 142 154 

107 119 131 143 155 

108 120 132 144 156 

109 121 133 145 157

Sample tray group G 

Rinsing 

port 

0 

1 

2 

3 

4 

5 

6 

7 

8 

9 

10 

11 

12 

13 

14 

15 

16 

17 

18 

19 

20 

Rack B314-0621:21 locations (30 mm diam.) for 50mL containers, 

one location (0) can be used for the rinsing port. 

Tray definition file for this group of racks: AS93G62.tra 

21 

22 

23 

24 

25 

26 

27 

28 

29 

30 

31 

32 

33 

34 

Note The tiers of rack B314-0621 are numbered. When you assemble a rack 

you can put the tier with the required set of numbers at the top. 

One tier is numbered 0–20; use this as the top tier in the rinsing-port rack. Make 

sure that you assemble the rack with the rinsing-port location (0) above the socket 

for the rinsing port in the base. 

The second tier is numbered on both sides; one side is numbered 21–41 and the 

other side is numbered 42–62. You can turn the tier over to obtain the set of 

numbers that you require. 


35 

36 

37 

38 

39 

40 

41 

Rack B314-0621 (3x) 

42 

43 

44 

45 

46 

47 

48 

49 

50 

51 

52 

53 

54 

55 

56 

57 

58 

59 

60 

61 

62

Installing Gilson sample racks 

In addition to the PerkinElmer sample racks, you can also use racks offered by Gilson. Up 

to four Gilson racks can be installed on the autosampler. Within the WinLab software a 

sample tray is defined as a group of four racks. To install the Gilson racks on the 

autosampler you require an adapter plate (option; P/N B314-0680). Please note that the 

Gilson racks cannot be obtained from PerkinElmer. 

To install the racks: 

1. If necessary, download the required tray definition files more 

information: page 45. 

2. Prepare the autosampler as described under To install the racks: on 

page 24 (see step 1 through step 5). 

3. Place the adapter plate (option; P/N B314-0680) on the sample table. 

Pins on the underside of the adapter plate engage in slots on the 

sample table. 

4. Place rack type 24 (29mm diam.) on the left-hand side of the sample 

table. 

Note You must always place rack type 24 on the left-hand side. Other racks 

cannot be used in this position. 

5. Place the other three racks on the sample table. 

Figure 8 Placing Gilson Racks on the Adapter Plate (autosampler table not shown) 


Sample tray groups for Gilson racks 

1 rack type 24 

(29 mm diam.) 

3 racks type 21 

(13.5mm diam.) 

Tray definition file for 

this group of racks: 

AS93gilson193.tra 

1 rack type 24 

(29 mm diam.) 

3 racks type 22/23 

(18.5mm diam.) 




4 racks type 24 

(29 mm diam.) 





Setting up the rinsing port 

Connecting the tubing 

Pump tubes and retaining hooks 

The pump tubes have three collars, giving two sections that can be tensioned around the 

pump rotor. If one section of a tube becomes deformed, and there is no other damage, 

you can use the other section. 

Pump tubes of different internal diameter are available so that you can vary the flow rate 

of the rinse liquid through the rinsing port. The pump tubes have colored collars for easy 

identification. 

Pump tube 

Color 

(collars) 

The retaining hooks on the rinse pump have an inside channel for the rinse feed pump 

tube and an outside channel for the drain pump tube (see Figure 9). There are slots for the 

pump tubes on the top and bottom of each retaining hook; the slots on the top are for tubes 

with narrower diameter, while the slots on the bottom are for tubes with wider diameter. 

Figure 9 Rinse Pump 

i.d. (mm) 

B314-0730 red-red 1.14 3.5–5 

B314-0721 violet-white 2.79 11–14 

Rear channel 

Front channel 

Pump rotor 

Section 1 Section 2 

Top view 

Collars Pump tube 

Retaining hook 

Nominal flow 

rate (mL/min) 

Side view 



Pump 

rotor 


Tubing configurations 

You can set up several different tubing configurations to meet the given requirements. 

• Configuration 1. The rinse pump is used to pump rinse liquid into the rinsing port 

and to pump the liquid back out into the waste bottle. A narrow-bore pump tube 

(B314-0730; red-red) is used for the rinse feed to provide a slow flow rate of the 

rinse liquid. This is the preferred configuration for ICP-OES and ICP-MS 

applications. 


and to pump the liquid back out into the waste bottle. A wide-bore pump tube 

(B314-0721; violet-white) is used for the rinse feed to provide a fast flow rate of 

the rinse liquid. This is the preferred configuration for flame AAS applications. 


only. The drain tube is connected to the rinsing port directly and the liquid drains 

by gravity into the waste bottle. A wide-bore pump tube (B314-0721; violetwhite) 

is used for the rinse feed to provide a fast flow rate of the rinse liquid. 


Configuration 1 

Rinsing 

port 

Rinse liquid 

feed line 

Bottle with 

rinse liquid 

Figure 10 Configuration 1 – Schematic of Tubing Connections 

Items required for configuration 1 

1 2 3 

4 

8 

5 

= Color-coded collars on pump tubes 

Drain line 

Waste bottle 

Rinse 

pump 

Item Description Part No. 

1 Adapter E, 6.3mm o.d. barbed fitting B019-6857 

2 Adapter M, 4mm o.d. barbed fitting B050-7919 

3 Wide-bore pump tube, 2.79mm i.d., violet-white B314-0721 

4 Connector, reducing 3.2mm to 1.7mm B019-9233 

5 Narrow-bore pump tube, 1.14mm i.d., red-red B314-0730 

6 Connector, 4.5mm to 4.5mm o.d. barbed fittings B314-0715 

7 Adapter A, 1.8mm o.d. barbed fitting B019-3342 

8 Rinse liquid feed tube B019-1059 

9 PVC drain tube B004-8139 


9 

6 7

Connecting the tubes for configuration 1 

1. Fit the rinse feed pump tube (red-red) (5) and the drain pump tube 

(violet-white) (3) to the rinse pump as described in Fitting pump tubes 

to the rinse pump on page 38. 

Note Always fit a wide-bore drain pump tube (violet-white). 

2. Connect up the rinse feed line: 

1. Push the wider barbed fitting of the reducing 

connector (4) into the PVC tube prefitted to the inlet 

fitting of the rinsing port. 

2. Push the end of the rinse feed pump tube ( 5) coming 

from the upper retaining hook onto the narrower 

barbed fitting of the reducing connector (4). 

3. Push the barbed fitting of adapter A ( 7) into the rinse 

feed pump tube coming from the lower retaining 

hook. 

4. Screw the connector on the rinse liquid feed tube (8) 

into adapter A. 

Tube connector 

Adapter 

3. Connect up the drain line: 

1. Screw adapter M (2) into adapter E (1). 

2. Push the barbed fitting of adapter E into the silicone tube prefitted 

to the drain nozzle on the rinsing port. 

3. Push the end of the drain tube (3) coming from the lower retaining 

hook onto the barbed fitting of adapter M. 

4. Push the tube connector (6) into the end of the drain pump tube 

coming from the upper retaining hook. 

5. Push one end of the PVC drain tube (9) onto the connector. 



Rinsing 

port 

Rinse liquid 

feed line 

Bottle with 

rinse liquid 



1 2 3 

4 

8 

5 

= Color-coded collars on pump tubes 

Drain line 

Waste bottle 

Rinse 

pump 


1 Adapter E, 6.3mm o.d. barbed fitting B019-6857 

2 Adapter M, 4mm o.d. barbed fitting B050-7919 





7 Adapter C, 4mm o.d. barbed fitting B019-3342 


9 PVC drain tube B004-8139 


9 

6 7


1. Fit the rinse feed pump tube (violet-white) (5) and the drain pump tube 

(violet-white) (3) to the rinse pump as described in Fitting pump tubes 

to the rinse pump on page 38. 

Note Always fit a wide-bore drain pump tube (violet-white). 


1. Push a barbed fitting of the tube connector (4) into 

the PVC tube prefitted to the inlet fitting of the 

rinsing port. 


from the upper retaining hook onto the other barbed 

fitting of the tube connector (4). 

3. Push the barbed fitting of adapter C (7) into the rinse 


hook. 


into adapter C. 


Adapter 


1. Screw adapter M (2) into adapter E (1). 

2. Push the barbed fitting of adapter E into the silicone tube prefitted 

to the drain nozzle on the rinsing port. 

3. Push the end of the drain tube (3) coming from the lower retaining 

hook onto the barbed fitting of adapter M. 

4. Push the tube connector (6) into the end of the drain pump tube 

coming from the upper retaining hook. 

5. Push one end of the PVC drain tube (9) onto the connector. 



Rinsing 

port 

Drain line 

Waste bottle 

5 



= Color-coded collars on pump tube 

Rinse liquid 

feed line 

Bottle with 

rinse liquid 

Rinse 

pump 




3 Adapter C, 4mm o.d. barbed fitting B019-3342 


5 Tygon ® drain tube B050-9650 


1 

2 

4 

3


1. Fit the rinse feed pump tube (violet-white) (2) to the rinse pump as 

described in Fitting pump tubes to the rinse pump on page 38. 


1. Push a barbed fitting of the tube connector (1) into 

the PVC tube prefitted to the inlet fitting of the 

rinsing port. 


from the upper retaining hook onto the other barbed 

fitting of the tube connector (1). 

3. Push the barbed fitting of adapter C (3) into the rinse 


hook. 


into adapter C. 


1. Remove the prefitted piece of silicone tube from the drain nozzle 

on the rinsing port. 

2. Push one end of the Tygon drain tube (5) onto the drain nozzle. 

3. To ensure smooth draining, make sure that the drain tube hangs 

straight down without loops or kinks. 

Lug 

Drain Nozzle 

Rinse liquid 

inlet fitting (adapter M, prefitted) 

Figure 13 Rinsing Port (prefitted tubes not shown) 


Adapter 


Fitting pump tubes to the rinse pump 

1. Swing the cam lever fully 

clockwise to release the 

pressure block. 

2. Pull the pressure block off 

the pivot. 

3. Fit the rinse feed pump 

tube: 

1. Hook a collar into the 

inside channel of a 

retaining hook, using 

the correct slot for the 

diameter of the tube. 

2. Gently tension the pump 

tube around the pump 

rotor and hook the 

second collar into the 

inside channel of the 

other retaining hook. 

Do not twist or kink the 

pump tube. 

4. Fit the drain pump tube: 

1. Repeat substeps 1 and 

2, above, to fit the drain 

pump tube to the 

outside channel of the 

retaining hooks. 

Collars 

5. Place a drop of silicone oil on the pump tubes in contact with the pump 

rollers to reduce wear. 

6. Slide the pressure block back onto the pivot. 



Cam lever 

Pressure 

block 

7. Swing the cam lever anti-clockwise to press the pressure block 

against the pump tubes. 

The final position of the cam lever depends on the pressure that is 

required on the pump tubes for satisfactory operation (the “3 o’clock” 

position is usually about right). Check the flow of liquid through the 

rinsing port when the pump is operating. If the flow is intermittent or 

inadequate, increase the pressure on the pump tubes with the cam 

lever. The lifetime of the pump tubes will be shortened if the pressure 

is too high. 

Note: Release the pressure on the pump tubes during longer pauses in operation (e.g. 

overnight) to prolong the lifetime of the pump tubes. 

Make sure that the inner diameter of the drain pump tube is the same as, or larger than, 

the rinse feed pump tube. If the drain pump tube has a smaller inner diameter, rinse 

liquid will back up in the rinsing port and ultimately overflow into the autosampler, 

possibly causing damage. 


Pivot 

Pump tube 

Pump 

rotor

Installing the rinsing port 

Lug passes 

into slot 

(not visible) 

Apertures 

Figure 14 Rinsing Port Installed in the Rack (tubes not shown) 

1. Orientate the rinsing port such that the tubes will pass through the 

apertures in the rack. 

2. Lower the rinsing port into the rack and guide the lug on the side of the 

rinsing port into the slot in the rack. 

3. Install the sample rack on the autosampler and position the 

autosampler close to the edge of the bench so that the drain tube 

hangs straight down. 

4. Place the waste bottle on a shelf or on the floor underneath the 

instrument in a position where it will not be kicked or knocked over. 

Make sure that the waste bottle is lower than the rinsing port. 

5. Place the free end of the drain tube into the waste bottle. If necessary, 

shorten the drain tube; to ensure smooth draining it must hang straight 

down without loops into the waste bottle and the end of the tube must 

never be immersed in liquid in the waste bottle. Make sure that the 

drain tube cannot slip out of the bottle. 

6. Place the rinse liquid bottle in a convenient position adjacent to the 

instrument where it cannot be knocked over. The bottle should be 

lower than the rinsing port to prevent siphoning. 

7. Place the free end of the rinse liquid feed tube (with the weight) into 

the rinse liquid bottle. Make sure that the tube cannot slip out of the 

bottle. 

Note You can install and remove the rinsing port without having to disconnect 

the tubes. When you remove the rinsing port from the rack, empty the liquid in the 

port into a beaker to prevent possible spillages in the laboratory. 


Function test 

The sense of the following test is to determine the mechanical accuracy of the X- and Y- 

sample probe drives. The follow description is based on the use of AAWinLab 3.0 under 

Windows 95 with an AAnalyst-100: 

1. Ensure, that the PC, the spectrometer and the AS-93plus autosampler 

are correctly connected and powered on. 

2. Start Windows 95 as usual and wait until the Windows initialization 

has been completed. 

3. Click on "Start" in the Windows task bar, then click on "Programs". 

4. In the program group "AAnalyst 100" double click the icon 

"Reconfigure". The "Reconfigure" starts and will show it’s first window. 

5. Click on the radio button of the used spectrometer (e.g. AAnalyst 100). 

"Reconfigure" will show the next window as shown below: 

Figure 15 Installation Option Window 

6. Click on the radio buttons indicating the hardware configuration of 

your system. Figure 13 shows the smallest possible configuration, 

e.g. AA-100 and AS-93plus only.) 

Note If the Installation Option windows does not show the radio button 

AS-93plus, select the radio button AS-91. The AS-93plus is operational reverse 

compatible to the AS-91. 


7. Click on "Next" to finish the reconfiguration procedure. 

8. Double click the Icon "AAWinLab Analyst" to start the reconfigured 

spectrometer operating software. After a while the AAWinLab’s initial 

screen will be shown with it’s menu line and toolbar. 

9. Select "File" - "New" to create a method to test the function and 

precision of the X- and Y-drive of the AS-93plus. 

10.Select an element (e.g. Cu) from the "Create New Method" window 

and click "OK". 

11.Type in the method description. Then select the tab "Calib." and click 

on the sub-tab "Autosampler". 

Figure 16 Autosampler Window 

12.Select the "Tray Type" (rack group). and select "F" as this is the 

standard rack configuration of the AS-93plus. 

Note Figure 14 shows the 3 types of predefined tray types (=rack groups) using 

Perkin Elmer racks. The character E,F and G of the tray type designation 

identifies the rack group while the following numbers points out the number of the 

maximal sample locations of the tray type. Refer to page 25 for details about predefined 

"tray types" = rack groups. 

If you are using sample racks from other suppliers you have to copy appropriate 

"tray files" that are named according the 8.3 character file name convention into 

the AA Winlab/Elan directory. "Ready-to-use" tray -files are provided with the AS- 

93 utility disk or must be prepared as described on page 47. 


Note In case that you are operating the AS-93plus with an AA Winlab software 

revision older than rev. 3.0 (AAnalyst 100/300) respectively rev. 3.9 (AAnalyst 

600/700/800) or with a 16 bit ICP WinLab software revision, you have to 

download the appropriate tray files from the AS-93 utility disk as described in the 

next chapter. 

13.Minimize the "method editor" for later use. 

14.Click on the "Auto" button of the tool bar. 

AAWinLab will show the "Automated Analysis" window. 

15.Select the sub-window "Analyze" from the "Automated Analysis" 

window. 

16.Click on the "Select Location" button from the "Analyze" window. 

AAWinLab will show the "Autosampler" window. 

Figure 17 Autosampler Window 

17.Select "Go to location 0" and click on "OK" to start the AS-93plus. 

The sampling probe will move upwards, the tower and the sampling 

probe holder will then move to the reference position, i.e. the left rear 

corner. In the next moment the tower and the sampling probe holder 

will move to location "0" and the sampling probe will move downwards. 

Finally the peristaltic pump will start for 30 seconds. 

18.Use the "Go to location xx" function to move the sampling probe to all 

corner locations of each sample rack and check the mechanical 

precision. For the standard tray type F the corner locations are as 

follows: 

1. Left rack: location 0, 5, 26, 37 

2. Middle rack: location 38, 49, 86, 97 

3. Right rack loaction 98, 109, 146, 157. 

Note The pump is only running at location 0. 

19.Check the precision of all sample locations mentioned above. 

A tolerance of ± 1 mm is within specification 

Refer to chapter "Alignment of the AS-93" starting on page 52 if the 

tolerance exceeds 1mm. 


AS-93plus Utilities 

The AS-93 utilities allows to change certain operating parameters of the autosampler. 

Installation of the AS-93 utilities 

It is recommended to install the AS-93 utilities on the computer that is used to control the 

spectrometer system. 

1. Insert the AS-93 utilities disk into the drive. 

Usually the Utilities program will start automatically. 

(If the Setup program does not start automatically: 

press the Windows Start-button and click on Run in the Windows start menu. 

In the Run window click on Browse. In the Browse window, select your drive, 

select Setup.exe, and click on Open. In the Run window click on OK.) 

2. Follow the instructions on the screen to install the AS-93 utilities program. 

3. You might create a short cut to the AS-93 utilities program. 

Start the AS-93 utilities 

1. Shut down the flame, graphite furnace or ICP torch and then exit the 

spectrometer’s operating software. 

2. The autosampler must remain connected to the electrical supply. 

3. Start the AS-93 utilities: 

If you did create an icon during installation, double click the icon. 

4. If an icon is not available, start from Windows program menu: 

Start - Programs - AS-93 Utilities. 

5. Click on OK and the AS-93 Utilities window will appear on the screen. 

The AS-93 Utilities window consist of 5 tabs respectively sub-windows: 

• Communication 

• Tray Download 

• Rinse Download 

• Firmware Download 

• Info 


Communication 

The Communication dialog allows to set up the communication type and parameters for 

the communication of the Utilities program with the autosampler. The communication 

type/parameters have to match with the dip-switch settings of the autosampler. If the 

communication parameters are not correct, you will not be able to download any of the 

utilities. 

To change the communication parameters: 

1. In the Communication dialog: 

1. Select the required Communication Interface: 

Click on IEEE or RS232. 

2. If you select IEEE, enter the IEEE Address for the autosampler. 

–or– 

If you select RS232, select the communication port (COM port) for 

the autosampler. 

The settings are implemented as soon as you change to a different page or close the 

window. 

Figure 18 AS-93 Utilities: Communication Dialog 


Tray Download 

A tray definition file provides the system with information about the group of sample racks 

installed on the autosampler. This information includes the coordinates of each location 

in the sample rack. The system requires this information to move the sampling probe to 

the correct location for each sample container in the rack. Refer to page 48 for further 

information about location coordinates. The spectrometer operating software already 

provides tray definition files for the Perkin Elmer sample tray type E, F and G. Tray 

definition files for each of the sample tray types that can be selected are also provided 

with the autosampler. The most recent software versions of the AA Winlab software such 

as Rev.3.00 or higher (used to control the AAnalyst 100/300), Rev.3.90 or higher (used 

to control the AAnalyst 600/700/800), the 32 bit ICP WinLab software and the ICP-MS 

ELAN software make direct use of tray definition files. In this case the tray definition file 

must be located in the WinLab/Elan directory, i.e. a tray download by means of the AS-93 

Utility software is NOT required. A tray download as described below is only required in 

the case, that the AS-93plus is controlled by software versions not supporting tray 

definition files, e.g. 16 bit ICP WinLab software or AA WinLab software Rev. 2.61. 

Note Tray definition files for the use with AA WinLab software and ICP-MS 

ELAN software are available from the AS-93 Utility disk P/N B314-0758 

Setting up tray definition files 

If you change the types of sample racks for use (e.g. you want to use Gilson racks instead 

of PerkinElmer racks), you must set up the tray definition files for those sample racks. In 

the spectrometer operating software you can select tray type E, F, or G. The Tray 

Download dialog allows to define which tray definition files are assigned to E, F and to G. 

Note Any change of the rack configuration assigned to a tray type requires a 

download of the correct tray definition files. 

Performing a tray download 

Performing a tray download 

1. Make sure that the communication parameters have been set 

correctly. 

1. In the Tray File dialog click on Open for Tray E. 

2. In the Open window, in Look in ..., select the directory containing 

the tray definition files, click on the file (group of sample racks) that 

you wish to assign to Tray E and then click on Open. 

3. Repeat this procedure for Tray F and Tray G, if required. 

Note: You can assign one, two, or three tray definition files. It is not 

necessary to always assign three. 

2. In the Tray File dialog, click on Download to implement the tray 

definition files in the spectrometer’s operating software. 


Figure 19 AS-93 Utilities: Tray Download Dialog 


How to create a tray definition file 

With an text editor, such like Notepad, edit or write a new file as shown below: 

Figure 20 Tray Definition File of Tray Type " E" 

Figure 20 shows the tray definition file for the PerkinElmer tray type E. In this example, to 

save place, the text is cut out between the sample location 18 and 47. 

Note The MaxLocation parameter (maximum location number in tray) must be 

equal with the highest position number of the positions listing. 


The sample positions are defined as follows: 

Each location of the tray definition file is defined by X-, Y-, and Z-coordinates of the 

sample rack. The X-coordinates determine the left-right movement of the sampling probe, 

the Y-coordinates determine the front-rear movement, and the Z-coordinates determine 

the vertical movement. 

The origin position is identical with the initialization (home) position of the sampling probe 

at the rear of the sample table. The sampling probe returns to this position when the Load 

Tray command has been performed. 

Figure 21 Principle of sample locations and coordinates 

In the various tray definition files, the X- and Y-coordinates for each location in the sample 

racks are the distances (in mm) from the origin to the center of the location. 

For example, in the PerkinElmer sample racks the rinsing port (location 0) has the 

coordinates X = 9 mm and Y = 13 mm. 

You can inspect the location coordinates of a tray definition file by means of a text editor 

such as Microsoft Notepad (included with MS Windows). 

The ability to create customized tray definition files allows the use of customized sample 

racks or sample racks supplied from other vendors such as Gilson. 


Rinse Download 

This utility enables you to change the rinse parameters for the autosampler. 

You can change: 

• The pump speed; this permits you to increase or decrease the flow of rinse 

liquid through the rinsing port. 

• the rinse time; you can increase or decrease the rinse time. 

• the rinse location; you can select a different location for the rinse liquid. 

The default parameters are shown in the entry boxes in the Rinse window. To display the 

values currently programmed for the autosampler, click on Show Parameters. 

Figure 22 AS-93 Utilities: Rinse Download Dialog 

To change rinse parameters: 

1. Make sure that the communication parameters have been set correctly. 

2. Make any changes that you require to the Pump speed and/or Rinse time. 

3. If you wish to use a different location for the rinse solution, enter the X- and Ycoordinates 

for the selected location (see ‘Location coordinates for sample 

racks’ in the User’s Guide). 

4. When you have completed all changes, click on Download to implement the 

changes in the spectrometer’s operating software. 


Firmware Download 

This utility enables you to download new firmware for the autosampler. At shipment, the 

AS-93 utilities disk provided with the autosampler contains the same firmware as installed 

in the autosampler. If PerkinElmer changes the firmware at any time, new firmware will be 

made available on the Lotus Notes AA Service database for download. 

To download firmware: 

1. Make sure that the communication parameters have been set 

correctly. 

2. Click on Browse. 

3. In the Open window:, In Look in ..., select the directory containing the 

firmware files. 

4. Select the file and click on Open. 

5. In the Firmware Download window, click on Download to install the 

new firmware in the autosampler. 

Figure 23 AS-93 Utilities: Firmware Download Dialog 


Information 

The Information window displays information about the currently-installed version of the 

firmware for the autosampler. 

To display version information: 

1. Make sure that the communication parameters have been set correctly. 

2. Click on the Info tab. 

3. Click on Show Info to display the current version of the firmware. 

Figure 24 AS-93 Utilities: Information Windows 


Alignment of the AS-93plus 

This chapter describes the procedure to perform a mechanical alignment of the AS-93plus 

mechanics. 

The AS-93plus is misaligned if the sampling probe does not hit the center of the sample 

cups. A misalignment might occur during transportation or wrong handling. A re-alignment 

might also be required after a repair of electronic components of the sampler. 

In general, adjustable are only X- and Y-position. The limits of the up and down movement 

of the autosampler arm are not adjustable. However, the height of the sampling probe 

need to be adjusted. This procedure is described on page 20. 

The AS-93plus offers an easy way to correct a misalignment by entering offset steps for 

the X- and Y-drive. 

The offset steps can be entered by using the utilities Terminal.exe and Adj93.trm or by 

entering of "direct commands" in the AS-93 device control module (= base module). 

Alignment using TERMINAL.EXE and ADJ93.TRM 

The "Terminal.exe" program with the setup file "Adj93.trm" allows the control of the 

AS93plus by using "direct commands" via the RS 232 communication. The same direct 

commands are used by all actual application software. Only with the Terminal.exe it is 

possible to change the offset steps for alignment. 

Required parts: 

• PC with Windows 95 or NT 

• RS 232 communication cable (9 pole) B050-7701 with the following 

pin assignment: 

15 pin D-Sub male connector¸15 pin D-Sub female connector 

1 ¸ 1 

2 ¸ 2 

3 ¸ 3 

4 ¸ 4 

5 ¸ 5 

6 ¸ 6 

7 ¸ 7 

8 ¸ 8 

9 ¸ 9 

10 ¸ 10 

11 ¸ 11 

12 ¸ 12 

13 ¸ 13 

14 ¸ 14 

15 ¸ 15 

• Floppy disk with the program Terminal.exe and Adj93.trm 

(available from AA Service BBS Lotus Notes DB)) 

Perform the follow procedure: 


1. Carefully turn over the autosampler to access the connector plate at 

the bottom (refer to illustration on page 15) and set all dip switches to 

OFF. 

2. Connect the cable of the 40 V plug-in power supply (see item 1 of 

illustration on page 15). 

3. Connect the RS232 cable from the autosampler communication port 

2 to the PC communication port 1 as shown below. 

Figure 25 RS232 Connection for Service Purpose 

4. Turn the autosampler back to the normal operating position. Make 

sure that the tower movement isn’t blocked. Place the sample racks 

(sample tray type F, standard accessory) on the autosampler. Insert 

the rinsing port (refer to page 39). Don't insert the sampling probe yet. 

5. Plug the "plug-in power supply" of the autosampler into the mains 

receptacle and switch on the PC. Allow the autosampler to complete 

the initialization (approx. 15 sec.). 

6. Click on the "Start" button of the PC and select the Windows Explorer. 

7. Insert the floppy disk with the "Terminal.exe" program. 

8. In the Explorer window, select drive A and double click the file 

Terminal.exe. The Terminal program will show an empty window. 

9. In the pull down menu, select "File" and than "Open". In the file 

selection box double click "Adj93.trm" to start the program: 2 lines of 


function keys are now accessible at the bottom of the window. 

The upper line contains 5 keys, the lower line 4 keys plus a display of 

the real time clock. By loading the setup file "Adj93.trm" some of the 9 

function keys are assigned to a direct command of the autosampler. 

The function key "Level: x" (x can be 1,2,3 or4) allows to change the 

assignment of the function keys. When you click on this key, the 

program will change over to the next level and will offer the next set of 

8 direct commands. The Terminal program provides 4 levels with max. 

32 direct command assignments. Between the menu bar and the 

function keys is an area supposed to display the communication 

between the PC/Terminal.exe and the AS-93plus. 

10.Click on the function key "Get ID" of the set "Level 1". The terminal 

program will display the following window: 

The the first line of the communication area shows the direct command that has been sent 

to the autosampler. The second line shows the response of the autosampler sent back to 

the PC. 

A description of all direct commands are provided in chapter "Firmware Description" 

starting on page 64 

11.Click on function key "Level 1" in order to get another set of direct 

commands. With these commands the precision of the sample 

location access can be determined. 

12.Click on the function key "Load Tray F", to load the tray definition file 

for the sample tray group F. 

The commands on level 2 are assigned for sample tray type F, which 

is the standard set of sample racks. In this sample tray group the 

corner locations are 0, 5, 146 and 157. 


If you are using another sample tray type, the corner locations will be 

different, e.g. 0, 6, 186 and 200 for sample tray type E,. 

In this case you must edit the function keys of level 2 for the new 

locations as follows: 

1. In the pull down menu, click on "Settings", in "Settings" click on 

"Function Keys...". 

2. Make any corner location changes that you require 

3. Modify the load tray command and click "OK" 

(Load Tray E: set tray=4 

Load Tray F: set tray=5 

Load Tray G: set tray=6). 

The Terminal program will run now for an other sample tray group. 

13.Click on the function keys "Goto 0" and than "Z Down" to move the 

sampling probe holder over the rinsing port. 

14.Insert the sampling probe and check if it access exact the center of the 

rinsing port. If not, measure the distance between the sampling probe 

and the center of the rinsing port with a Millimeter scale in X- and Ydirection. 

Note the values in a table. 

15.Repeat this procedure accordingly for all corner positions. 

The table below shows an example of a misalignment: 

Table 4 Example of mechanical misalignment 

Sample location 0 5 146 157 

X-offset [mm] -1.0 -2.0 -1.0 -2.0 

Y-offset [mm] -2.0 -2.0 -2.0 -2.0 

Note A tolerance of ±1 mm is within specification 


Kinds of positional misalignments 

There are 2 kinds of positional misalignment possible: 

• Parallel misalignment, if 

the positionings, seen in X-axis, of the rear sample locations 

(0,14,26,38,50,62,74,86,98,110,122,134,146) are ok, 

but the front sample locations 

(5,13,25,37,49,61,73,85,97,109,121,133,145,157) are showing an offset. 

• Offset misalignment, 

if the tip of the sampling probe shows a constant offset in X- or Y-axis in all 

sample locations . 

Note A parallel misalignment must be corrected before an offset misalignment 

can be corrected. 

The table 4 on page 55 shows the existence of a parallel misalignment while the X-offset 

is just in tolerance. 

Correction of a parallel misalignment 

A parallel misalignment must be corrected by rotating the tower. 

0 

1 

2 

3 

4 

5 

6 

7 

8 

9 

10 

11 

12 

13 

14 

15 

16 

17 

18 

19 

20 

21 

22 

23 

24 

25 

26 

27 

28 

29 

30 

31 

32 

33 

34 

35 

36 

37 

38 

39 

40 

41 

42 

43 

44 

45 

46 

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48 

49 

50 

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54 

55 

56 

57 

58 

59 

60 

61 

62 

63 

64 

65 

66 

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68 

69 

70 

71 

72 

73 

Figure 26 Correction of a parallel misalignment ( exaggerated illustration) 


74 

75 

76 

77 

78 

79 

80 

81 

82 

83 

84 

85 

86 

87 

88 

89 

90 

91 

92 

93 

94 

95 

96 

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98 

110 122 134 146 

99 111 123 135 147 

100 112 124 136 148 

101 113 125 137 149 

102 114 126 138 150 

103 115 127 139 151 

104 116 128 140 152 

105 117 129 141 153 

106 118 130 142 154 

107 119 131 143 155 

108 120 132 144 156 

109 121 133 145 157

1. Switch of the AS-93 by unplugging the power supply. 

2. Remove the sampling probe, the sample tubes and the sample racks 

from the sample tray table. 

3. With a knife carefully lift and remove the 4 caps that cover the 

mounting screws of the sample tray table. 

4. Remove the sample tray table and place it in front of the chassis. 

5. Loosen the 4 screws of the tower's bottom plate. 

6. Carefully turn the tower as much as the correction requires. Don't 

touch the arm during this procedure. 

7. To check the correction, mount the sample tray table and insert the left 

sample rack. 

8. Insert the sampling probe and move the sampling probe holder to 

location 0 and 5 by means of the Terminal program. 

9. Measure the X-offset with a millimeter scale. If there is still a different 

offset in X-direction repeat step 4 and 5. 

In general, a positional test can also preformed with the spectrometer 

operating software by means of the manual commands in the 

autosampler page. 

10.Check the X-offset also at the right side, i.e. position 146 and 157. If 

the X- offset on all corner locations is constant, a parallel misalignment 

is corrected. 

Figure 27 Location of the Tower Bottom Plate / Tower Mounting Screws 


Correction of a X/Y-offset misalignment 

A X/Y-offset misalignment is present, if the sampling probe does not go exactly into the 

center of each position of the sample tray. 

Note A tolerance of ± 1 mm is allowed! 

The X/Y-offset misalignment will be corrected by entering offset steps for the X- and 

Y-drive. These offset steps are used for all movements as soon as they are stored in the 

non-volatile RAM area . 

The offset steps can be entered by using the utility Terminal.exe with the associated file 

Adj93.trm . 

1. Measure the precision of positioning as described in chapter 

Alignment using TERMINAL.EXE and ADJ93.TRM on page 52 by 

using the Terminal program, commands level 2, and note the values 

into a table. The table below shows an example: 

Table 5 Example of X/Y-Offset Misalignment 

Location X-Offset [mm] Y-Offset [mm] 

0 -1.0 -2.0 

5 -1.0 -2.0 

146 -1.0 -2.0 

157 -1.0 -2.0 

2. Click on the function key "Level 2" to make the following commands 

accessible: 


3. Click on the function key "Get X-Offset (mm)" and read the current xoffset 

stored in the non-volatile RAM. 

4. Calculate the new X-offset: 

The measured X-value is -1.0 mm, that means the sample probe is 1.0 

mm too far left and needs to be moved 1.0 mm to the right side. 

5. Click on the function key "Set X-Offset (mm)". 

Type in the calculated value "1.00" and press the "Enter" key. 

6. Click on the function key "Enable X-Offset". 

Give enough reaction time the autosampler between each new 

command input. 

7. Click on the function key "Initialize". 

8. Check the new precision in X-direction by using the level 2 

commands. If the new precision is not inside a tolerance of ± 1.0 mm 

repeat the steps 2-7. 

9. The correction of a Y-misalignment works similar as the above 

described X-alignment (step 2 until 8) by means of the "Y" function 

keys. 

Note The left end position of the tower is limited by the position of the hall 

sensor. X-offset steps (=mm) are allowed in the range of 0 to10 and will move the 

tower only from left to the right side. A negative number is not allowed. If a 

correction to the left side is required, the main board must be moved (see 

Figure 28). 

Note The rear end position of the sampling probe holder is limited by a optical 

sensor. Y-offset steps (=mm) are allowed in the range of 0 to10 and will move the 

sampling probe holder only from back to front. A negative number is not allowed. 

If a correction to the back will be required, the flag of the optical sensor must be 

moved. Take care that the sampling probe holder is in the sample location 0 

before you perform this alignment (see Figure29). 


Figure 28 X-Offset Correction by Moving the PCB 

Figure 29 Adjustable Flag and Light Barrier for Y-Offset Alignment 


Checking the Event Relay 

The Event relay is a potential-free relay contact that can be used to control an external 

system. 

Internal Cyclic tests 

1. Connect an Ohm meter to the terminal "Event". See item 2 of Electrical 

connectors and switches on page 15. 

2. Click on the function key "Event ON" of the level 4 commands. 

The relay contact will close the contact and the ohm-meter should 

show zero ohm. (You might also hear a "click" if the environmental 

noise level is not too high.) 

3. Click on the function key "Event OFF". 

The relay contact will be open and the ohm meter should show "high 

resistance". 

4 internal test programs have been build-in allowing to test the AS-93plus without a need 

to attach a PC. These "stand-alone tests" can be activated by setting the dipswitch 7 to 

ON using the dipswitch configurations as follows: 

1. Cyclic sample location test of sample tray group F. 

Continuous accessing of all sample location. 

2. Cyclic X-drive test 

The tower will move to the left and right end position. 

3. Cyclic Y-drive test. 

The sampling probe holder will move to the front and rear end position. 


4. Cyclic Z-drive test 

The arm will move up and down to the end position. 

5. Cyclic pump and movement test 

The arm will move to any position of the tray type "F" and peristaltic 

pump will run continuously. 

6. Cyclic pump test 

The peristaltic pump will run continuously. 


Maintenance 

There are not much parts to maintain inside of the AS-93plus. Maintenance work is 

basically related to guide rods and spindles of the X-, Y- and Z-drive which should be kept 

slightly lubricated with a thin film of the following lubricants: 

1. Spindles: 

"Losymol" oil, P/N B0508429, comes in a 10 mL bottle 

2. Guide rods: 

"Nominol SD" grease, P/N B050-8430, comes in a 1 kg container 

Dust and/or the aggressive vapors of the lab environment can make the surface of the 

guide rods and spindles sticky over the time. In this case it might be necessary to clean 

those surfaces by means of a tissue and eventually an organic solvent prior of applying 

lubricants. Be careful with the use of Acetone. Acetone is an excellent solvent to remove 

grease and/or oil from metallic surfaced, but is also rather aggressive to plastic surfaces. 

It is recommended to protect somehow neighboring parts of the guide rods and spindles 

such as plastic parts or PCBs prior of cleaning surfaces and applying lubricants. 


Firmware 

The firmware of the AS-93plus is identical with the firmware of the AS-90plus. During 

power-on initialization the presence of the pump module will be checked as a procedure 

of self-identification. The autosampler will be initialized as an AS-93plus, if the pump is 

connected to the controller PCB. Otherwise the firmware will initialize as an AS-90plus. 

The firmware is stored in a FLASH-RAM located on the controller PCB and can be 

downloaded via the AS-93plus Utilities program. A procedure is given in chapter Firmware 

Download on page 50. 

Direct commands 

The control of the autosampler is done usually by means of direct commands sent from 

the application software / Device Control Module (DCM) to the mechanical unit. It is the 

purpose of the firmware to interpret the command and convert them into action. In addition 

the firmware has to monitor all sensor signal and has to send data back to the application. 

For trouble-shooting purpose it might be useful to have a list of direct commands available 

as shown below: 

Identification Commands 

• get id query 

Autosampler identification name 

• get syst.vers query 

firmware version with date and time 

• get syst.serialno query 

Serial number of the autosampler 

• get syst.part query 

Part number of the autosampler 

Reset Command 

• reset action 

only 

Power on reset. To achieve the same effects as switching power on. 

Tray commands 

• set tray= action 

Load type of sample tray 

Parameter: 4,5,6 (tray E=4, tray F=5, tray G=6) 

• get tray query 

Read loaded type of sample tray 


Pump Commands 

• stop control.pump action 

Switch off the pump 

• start control.pump action 

Switch on the pump 

X-, Y-, Z- Drive commands 

• init cntrl.x action 

X-drive moves to the home position 

• init cntrl.y action 

Y-drive moves to the home position 

• init cntrl.z action 

Z-drive moves to the home position 

• set up= action 

Move the autosampler arm upwards to position 

Parameter: 0.0-146.0, 

Default: 0 

• get up query 

Read the current z-drive position 

• set down= action 

Move the autosampler arm downwards to position for a 

duration of milliseconds 

Parameter a: 0.0-146.0, 

Parameter b: no range check (resolution 15,625 ms), 0= stay forever 

Default: 0,0 

• get down query 

Read the current z-drive position 

• set posup= action 

Move the z-drive to the upper end-position, then move x- and y-drive to 

sample position . Z-drive doesn’t move downwards 

Parameter: Tray E=0-200, Tray F=0-157, Tray G=0-62 

• get posup query 

Read current sample position 

• get cntrl.x.soff query 

Read the current X-offset in mm 

• set cntrl.x.soff _ action 

Enter new X-offset in mm 

parameter: 0-10 


• get cntrl.y.soff query 

Read the current Y-offset in mm 

• set cntrl.y.soff action 

Enter new Y-offset in mm 

parameter: 0-10 

• enable cntrl.x action 

Save new X-offset value into FLASH 

• enable cntrl.y action 

Save new Y-offset value into FLASH 

Event Commands 

• set cntrl.event.test action 

Switch on/off the event relay 

Parameter: on,off 


AS-93plus Error Code Reference Table 

Code Description 

0 No error 

2 Parameter error 

Table 6 AS-93plus Error Code Table 

3 Value out of range 

7 Command error 

9 EPCI error 

21 No autosampler connected 

100 Autosampler time out 

101 Autosampler X motor time out 

102 Autosampler y motor time out 

103 Autosampler Z motor time out 

105 Illegal X-Y coordinates 

106 Up move out of range 

107 Down move out of range 

109 Autosampler position out of range 

110 Illegal liquid detector status 

111 No liquid detected 

121 Checksum error 

122 Reset task execution error 

130 S-Record error 

131 S-Record checksum error 

132 Transmission error 

133 Synchronization error 

134 No start of transmission error 

135 No end of transmission error 

136 Header checksum error 

137 Data checksum error 

200 Autosampler time out 


Code Description 

Table 6 AS-93plus Error Code Table 

201 Autosampler busy error 

202 Motor time out error 

203 Motor initialization error 

204 Motor initialization error 

205 Motor break error 

301 X motor time out error 

302 X motor initialization error 

304 X motor break error 

311 Y motor time out error 

312 Y motor initialization error 

314 Y motor break error 

321 Z motor time out error 

322 Z motor initialization error 

326 Z motor liquid detector error 

330 Illegal X-Y coordinates 

331 Up move out of range 

332 Down move out of range 

333 Autosampler position out of range

AS9N010B.STB AS-93plus Service Manual.fm - LIQUID-scan GmbH ...

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