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Thermo Scientific NanoDrop SpectrophotometersNucleic AcidTroubleshootingReproducibility Concentrations not within • Ensure samples fall within the linear detection range ofExpected Rangethe instrument.Tip: Refer to the table of model-specific detection limits onpage 13 for guidance.• Ensure sample solution is homogeneous by gentle vortexing,as appropriate.• Confirm that the reference (blank) solution and sample solvent arethe same material.• Clean and recondition the pedestal surfaces prior to the start of themeasurement session.• Ensure appropriate sample type is selected as concentrationcalculations utilize constants specific to each sample type.Instrument Related IssuesColumn Breakage• Ensure pedestal surfaces are properly conditioned.Tip: When a pedestal becomes unconditioned, sample dropletsapplied to the bottom pedestal will “flatten out” and cover the entirepedestal surface rather than “bead up.” Refer to the Reconditioninginstructions under the Best Practicessection on page 6.• Ensure sufficient volume is loaded onto the pedestal.• Use a larger volume (1.5 – 2 μL) for each measurement.• Use a calibrated small volume pipettor to deliver the sampleto the pedestal.• Ensure instrument is not located near a vent or other sourceof air flow.• Ensure measurements are made immediately after pipettingsamples onto the pedestal, as delays may compromise accuracy.• If an error message indicating possible column breakage isdisplayed and the user visually confirms that the liquid column isforming, perform a calibration check. If the instrument is out ofcalibration, contact Technical Support. Outside of the US andCanada, please contact your local NanoDrop products distributor.21