Agilent Technologies 1260 Infinity User manual

Agilent Technologies
Agilent 1260 Infinity
Standard Autosampler
User Manual

Agilent 1260 Infinity Standard Autosampler User Manual
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G1329-90013
Edition
06/10
Printed in Germany
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Agilent 1260 Infinity Standard Autosampler User Manual 3
In This Book
In This Book
This manual covers the Agilent 1260 Infinity Standard Autosampler (G1329B).
1 Introduction to the Autosampler
This chapter gives an introduction to the autosampler, instrument overview
and internal connectors.
2 Site Requirements and Specifications
This chapter provides information on environmental requirements, physical
and performance specifications.
3 Installing the Autosampler
This chapter provides information on unpacking, checking on completeness,
stack considerations and installation of the module.
4 Using the Autosampler
This chapter provides information on how to set up the module for an analysis
and explains the basic settings.
5 Optimizing Performance
This chapter provides information on how to optimize the module.
6 Troubleshooting and Diagnostics
Overview about the troubleshooting and diagnostic features.
7 Error Information
This chapter describes the meaning of error messages, and provides
information on probable causes and suggested actions how to recover from
error conditions.

4 Agilent 1260 Infinity Standard Autosampler User Manual
In This Book
8 Maintenance
This chapter describes the maintenance of the module.
9 Parts and Materials for Maintenance
This chapter provides information on parts for maintenance.
10 Identifying Cables
This chapter provides information on cables used with the module.
11 Appendix
This chapter provides addition information on safety, legal and web.

Agilent 1260 Infinity Standard Autosampler User Manual 5
Contents
Contents
1 Introduction to the Autosampler 9
Introduction to the Autosampler 10
Early Maintenance Feedback (EMF) 20
Instrument Layout 21
Electrical Connections 22
Interfaces 24
Setting the 8-bit Configuration Switch (On-Board LAN) 30
2 Site Requirements and Specifications 39
Site Requirements 40
Physical Specifications 44
Performance Specifications Standard Autosampler 45
3 Installing the Autosampler 47
Unpacking the Autosampler 48
Optimizing the Stack Configuration 49
Installing the Autosampler 53
Installing the Thermostatted Autosampler 56
Flow Connections 60
Installing the Sample Tray 62
Transporting the Autosampler 63
4 Using the Autosampler 65
Sample Trays 66
List of Compatible Vials and Caps 68
5 Optimizing Performance 71
Optimization for Lowest Carry-over 72
Fast Injection Cycle and Low Delay Volume 75
Precise Injection Volume 77
Choice of Rotor Seal 79

6 Agilent 1260 Infinity Standard Autosampler User Manual
Contents
6 Troubleshooting and Diagnostics 81
Overview of the Sampler’s Indicators and Test Functions 82
Status Indicators 83
Maintenance Functions 85
Standard Autosampler Step Commands 92
Troubleshooting 94
Troubleshooting Guide for the Sample Transport Assembly 96
Agilent Lab Advisor Software 103
7 Error Information 105
What are Error Messages 107
General Error Messages 108
Autosampler Error Messages 115
8 Maintenance 125
Introduction into Maintenance and Repair 126
Maintenance Functions 129
Simple Repairs 130
9 Parts and Materials for Maintenance 147
Main Assemblies 148
Analytical-Head Assembly 150
Vial Trays 152
Standard Autosampler Accessory Kit G1329-68755 153
Maintenance Kit G1313-68719 153
Multi-Draw Kit 154
External Tray G1313-60004 154

Agilent 1260 Infinity Standard Autosampler User Manual 7
Contents
10 Identifying Cables 155
Cable Overview 156
Analog Cables 158
Remote Cables 160
BCD Cables 163
External Contact Cable 165
CAN/LAN Cables 166
Auxiliary Cable 167
RS-232 Cables 168
11 Appendix 169
General Safety Information 170
The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive
(2002/96/EC) 173
Lithium Batteries Information 174
Radio Interference 175
Solvent Information 176
Sound Emission 178
Agilent Technologies on Internet 179

8 Agilent 1260 Infinity Standard Autosampler User Manual
Contents

9
Agilent 1260 Infinity Standard Autosampler User Manual
Agilent Technologies
1
Introduction to the Autosampler
Introduction to the Autosampler 10
Sampling Sequence 12
Sampling Unit 15
Transport Assembly 18
Early Maintenance Feedback (EMF) 20
Instrument Layout 21
Electrical Connections 22
Serial Number Information (ALL) 23
Electrical Connections 22
Interfaces 24
Overview Interfaces 26
Setting the 8-bit Configuration Switch (On-Board LAN) 30
Communication Settings for RS-232C 34
Special Settings 36
This chapter gives an introduction to the autosampler, instrument overview and
internal connectors.

10 Agilent 1260 Infinity Standard Autosampler User Manual
1Introduction to the Autosampler
Introduction to the Autosampler
Introduction to the Autosampler
Figure 1 Overview of the Autosampler
The Agilent 1260 Infinity autosamplers are designed for use with other
modules of the Agilent 1200 Infinity Series, 1200 Series and 1100 Series LC
system, or with other LC systems if adequate remote control inputs and
outputs are available. The autosamplerss are controlled by the Agilent control
module (G4208A Instant Pilot) or by Agilent control software (ChemStation
for LC, EZChrom Elite etc.).
Three sample-rack sizes are available for the autosamplers. The standard
full-size rack holds 100 × 1.8 mL vials, while the two half-size racks provide
space for 40 × 1.8 mL vials and 15 × 6 mL vials respectively. Any two half-size
rack trays can be installed in the autosamplers simultaneously. A specially
designed sample-rack holding 100 × 1.8 mL vials is available for use with
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Agilent 1260 Infinity Standard Autosampler User Manual 11
Introduction to the Autosampler 1
Introduction to the Autosampler
thermostatted autosamplers. The half-size racks trays are not designed for an
optimal heat transfer when they are used with a thermostatted autosampler.
The autosamplers transport mechanism uses an X-Z-Theta movement to
optimize vial pick-up and return. Vials are picked up by the gripper arm, and
positioned below the sampling unit. The gripper transport mechanism and
sampling unit are driven by motors. Movement is monitored by optical sensors
and optical encoders to ensure correct operation. The metering device is
always flushed after injection to ensure minimum carry-over. The standard
analytical head of the metering device provides injection volumes from 0.1 –
100 µL and can be operated at up to 600 bar. A head with extended volume is
available for injection volumes from 0.1 – 900 µL and can be operated up to
400 bar.
The six-port injection valve unit (only 5 ports are used) is driven by a
high-speed hybrid stepper motor. During the sampling sequence, the valve unit
bypasses the autosamplers, and directly connects the flow from the pump to
the column. During injection and analysis, the valve unit directs the flow
through the autosamplers which ensures that the sample is injected
completely into the column, and that any sample residue is removed from the
metering unit and needle from before the next sampling sequence begins.
Control of the vial temperature in the thermostatted autosampler is achieved
using the autosampler thermostat G1330B. Details of this module are given in
the Agilent 1290 Infinity Autosampler Thermostat manual.

12 Agilent 1260 Infinity Standard Autosampler User Manual
1Introduction to the Autosampler
Introduction to the Autosampler
Sampling Sequence
The movements of the autosampler components during the sampling sequence
are monitored continuously by the autosampler processor. The processor
defines specific time windows and mechanical ranges for each movement. If a
specific step of the sampling sequence can’t be completed successfully, an
error message is generated.
Solvent is bypassed from the autosamplers by the injection valve during the
sampling sequence. The sample vial is selected by a gripper arm from a static
sample rack, or from external vial positions. The gripper arm places the
sample vial below the injection needle. The required volume of sample is
drawn into the sample loop by the metering device. Sample is applied to the
column when the injection valve returns to the mainpass position at the end of
the sampling sequence.
The sampling sequence occurs in the following order:
1The injection valve switches to the bypass position.
2The piston of the metering device moves to the initialization position.
3The gripper arm moves from the home position, and selects the vial. At the
same time, the needle lifts out of the seat.
4The gripper arm places the vial below the needle.
5The needle lowers into the vial.
6The metering device draws the defined sample volume.
7The needle lifts out of the vial.
8If the automated needle wash is selected (see “Using the Automated Needle
Wash” on page 72), the gripper arm replaces the sample vial, positions the
wash vial below the needle, lowers the needle into the vial, then lifts the
needle out of the wash vial.
9The gripper arm checks if the safety flap is in position.
10 The gripper arm replaces the vial, and returns to the home position.
Simultaneously, the needle lowers into the seat.
11 The injection valve switches to the mainpass position.

Agilent 1260 Infinity Standard Autosampler User Manual 13
Introduction to the Autosampler 1
Introduction to the Autosampler
Injection Sequence
Before the start of the injection sequence, and during an analysis, the injection
valve is in the mainpass position (Figure 2 on page 13). In this position, the
mobile phase flows through the autosamplers metering device, sample loop,
and needle, ensuring all parts in contact with sample are flushed during the
run, thus minimizing carry-over.
Figure 2 Mainpass Position
When the sample sequence begins, the valve unit switches to the bypass
position (Figure 3 on page 13). Solvent from the pump enters the valve unit at
port 1, and flows directly to the column through port 6.
Figure 3 Bypass Position

14 Agilent 1260 Infinity Standard Autosampler User Manual
1Introduction to the Autosampler
Introduction to the Autosampler
Next, the needle is raised, and the vial is positioned below the needle. The
needle moves down into the vial, and the metering unit draws the sample into
the sample loop (Figure 4 on page 14).
Figure 4 Drawing the Sample
When the metering unit has drawn the required volume of sample into the
sample loop, the needle is raised, and the vial is replaced in the sample tray.
The needle is lowered into the needle seat, and the injection valve switches
back to the mainpass position, flushing the sample onto the column (Figure 5
on page 14).
Figure 5 Mainpass Position (Sample Injection)

Agilent 1260 Infinity Standard Autosampler User Manual 15
Introduction to the Autosampler 1
Introduction to the Autosampler
Sampling Unit
The sampling unit comprises three main assemblies: needle drive, metering
device, and injection valve.
Figure 6 Autosampler Sampling Unit
NOTE The replacement sampling unit excludes the injection valve and metering head assemblies.
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16 Agilent 1260 Infinity Standard Autosampler User Manual
1Introduction to the Autosampler
Introduction to the Autosampler
Needle-Drive
The needle movement is driven by a stepper motor connected to the spindle
assembly by a toothed belt. The circular motion of the motor is converted to
linear motion by the drive nut on the spindle assembly. The upper and lower
needle positions are detected by reflection sensors on the sampling unit flex
board, while the needle-in-vial position is determined by counting the motor
steps from the upper needle-sensor position.
Analytical head
The analytical head is driven by the stepper motor connected to the drive shaft
by a toothed belt. The drive nut on the spindle converts the circular movement
of the spindle to linear motion. The drive nut pushes the sapphire piston
against the tension of the spring into the analytical head. The base of the
piston sits on the large bearing of the drive nut, which ensures the piston is
always centered. A ceramic ring guides the movement of the piston in the
analytical head. The home position of the piston is sensed by an infra-red
sensor on the sampling unit flex board, while the sample volume is determined
by counting the number of steps from the home position. The backward
movement of the piston (driven by the spring) draws sample from the vial.
Table 1 Analytical Head Technical Data
Standard (100 µL) Standard (900 µL)
Number of steps 15000 15000
Volume resolution 7 nl/motor step 60 nl/motor step
Maximum stroke 100 µL 900 µL
Pressure limit 600 bar 400 bar
Piston material Sapphire Sapphire

Agilent 1260 Infinity Standard Autosampler User Manual 17
Introduction to the Autosampler 1
Introduction to the Autosampler
Injection-Valve
The two-position 6-port injection valve is driven by a stepper motor. Only five
of the six ports are used (port 3 is not used). A lever/slider mechanism
transfers the movement of the stepper motor to the injection valve. Two
microswitches monitor switching of the valve (bypass and mainpass end
positions).
No valve adjustments are required after replacing internal components.
Table 2 Injection-Valve Technical Data
Autosampler
Motor type 4 V, 1.2 A stepper motor
Seal material PEEK
Stator material None
Number of ports 6
Switching time < 150 ms

18 Agilent 1260 Infinity Standard Autosampler User Manual
1Introduction to the Autosampler
Introduction to the Autosampler
Transport Assembly
The transport unit comprises an X-axis slide (left-right motion), a Z-axis arm
(up-down motion), and a gripper assembly (rotation and vial-gripping).
Figure 7 Transport Assembly
The transport assembly uses four stepper motors driven in closed-loop mode
for accurate positioning of the gripper assembly for sample-vial transport. The
rotational movement of the motors is converted to linear motion (X- and
Z-axes) by toothed belts connected to the drive spindles. The rotation (theta
axes) of the gripper assembly is transferred from the motor by a toothed belt
and series of gears. The opening and closing of the gripper fingers are driven
by a stepper motor linked by a toothed belt to the planetary gearing inside the
gripper assembly.
The stepper motor positions are determined by the optical encoders mounted
onto the stepper-motor housing. The encoders monitor the position of the
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Agilent 1260 Infinity Standard Autosampler User Manual 19
Introduction to the Autosampler 1
Introduction to the Autosampler
motors continually, and correct for position errors automatically (e.g. if the
gripper is accidentally moved out of position when loading vials into the vial
tray). The initialization positions of the moving components are sensed by
reflection sensors mounted on the flex board. These positions are used by the
processor to calculate the actual motor position. An additional six reflection
sensors for tray recognition are mounted on the flex board at the front of the
assembly.

20 Agilent 1260 Infinity Standard Autosampler User Manual
1Introduction to the Autosampler
Early Maintenance Feedback (EMF)
Early Maintenance Feedback (EMF)
Maintenance requires the exchange of components which are subject to wear
or stress. Ideally, the frequency at which components are exchanged should be
based on the intensity of usage of the module and the analytical conditions,
and not on a predefined time interval. The early maintenance feedback (EMF)
feature monitors the usage of specific components in the instrument, and
provides feedback when the user-selectable limits have been exceeded. The
visual feedback in the user interface provides an indication that maintenance
procedures should be scheduled.
EMF Counters
EMF counters increment with use and can be assigned a maximum limit which
provides visual feedback in the user interface when the limit is exceeded.
Some counters can be reset to zero after the required maintenance procedure.
Using the EMF Counters
The user-settable EMF limits for the EMF Counters enable the early maintenance
feedback to be adapted to specific user requirements. The useful maintenance
cycle is dependent on the requirements for use. Therefore, the definition of the
maximum limits need to be determined based on the specific operating
conditions of the instrument.
Setting the EMF Limits
The setting of the EMF limits must be optimized over one or two maintenance
cycles. Initially the default EMF limits should be set. When instrument
performance indicates maintenance is necessary, take note of the values
displayed by the EMF counters. Enter these values (or values slightly less than
the displayed values) as EMF limits, and then reset the EMF counters to zero.
The next time the EMF counters exceed the new EMF limits, the EMF flag will be
displayed, providing a reminder that maintenance needs to be scheduled.