Buchi Alltech 3300 ELSD User manual

Alltech®Model 3300 ELSD
Operation Manual
11593900A en

Imprint
Product Identification:
Operation Manual (Original) Alltech® Model 3300 ELSD
11593900A
Publication date: 04.2016
BÜCHI Labortechnik AG
Meierseggstrasse 40
Postfach
CH-9230 Flawil 1
E-Mail: [email protected]
BUCHI reserves the right to make changes to the manual as deemed necessary in the light of experi-
ence, especially with respect to structure, illustrations and technical detail.
This manual is copyrighted. Information from it may not be reproduced, distributed, or used for competi-
tive purposes, nor made available to third parties. The manufacture of any component with the aid of this
manual without prior written agreement is also prohibited.

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Safety Symbols used in this Manual:
The Danger symbol indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
The Warning symbol indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
The Caution symbol indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
The Notice symbol is used to highlight information that will optimize the use and reliability of the system.

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Important Safety Guidelines for the Model 3300 ELSD
Please read the following cautions and warning statements carefully before
using the Model 3300 ELSD:
•The equipment must be used as specified by the manufacturer otherwise
overall safety will be impaired.
•All service must be completed by qualified personnel only.
•Only use the power supply cord recommended by the manufacturer.
•Fire hazard, only use the same type and rated CERTIFIED fuse
(250V 5A F).
•Shock hazard, disconnect power before replacing the fuse.
•Remove power cord from the power module to disconnect electrical power
from the unit.
•Check the MSDS forms and dispense and dispose of all reagents in
accordance with local and national regulations.
•Be sure to provide proper ventilation for all solvent vapors.
•Avoid open flames and sparks when using flammable solvents.
•If the unit is damaged and does not function properly, stop the unit safely
and contact the manufacturer immediately.
•Class 3B LASER radiation inside can cause severe eye damage. Do not
open or defeat interlocks. Avoid exposure to the beam.

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Table of Contents
1. Introduction ......................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 About the Model 3300 ELSD..................................................................................................................1
1.2 Principle of Operation............................................................................................................................2
2. Installation ........................................................................................................................... 3
2.1 What You Will Need ...............................................................................................................................3
2.2 Unpacking ..............................................................................................................................................3
2.3 Controls and Features ...........................................................................................................................4
2.3.1 Front Panel (Figure 2.1)..................................................................................................................................... 4
2.3.2 Back Panel (Figure 2.2)..................................................................................................................................... 5
2.4 Making Electrical and Fluid Connections .............................................................................................6
3. Navigating the Software Interface...................................................................................... 7
3.1 Main Screen............................................................................................................................................7
3.2 Operation................................................................................................................................................7
3.2.1 Mode................................................................................................................................................................... 7
3.2.2 Start/Stop Run.................................................................................................................................................... 8
3.2.3 Lock/Unlock Detector........................................................................................................................................ 8
3.2.4 Chart................................................................................................................................................................... 8
3.2.5 Autozero............................................................................................................................................................. 9
3.3 Method....................................................................................................................................................9
3.3.1 New ..................................................................................................................................................................... 9
3.3.2 Open ................................................................................................................................................................. 10
3.3.3 Edit.................................................................................................................................................................... 10
3.3.4 Delete................................................................................................................................................................ 10
3.3.5 Wizard............................................................................................................................................................... 11
3.4 Configuration .......................................................................................................................................11
3.4.1 Alarm ................................................................................................................................................................ 11
3.4.2 Outputs............................................................................................................................................................. 11
3.4.3 Display.............................................................................................................................................................. 12
3.4.4 Date and Time.................................................................................................................................................. 12
3.4.5 Language.......................................................................................................................................................... 12
3.4.6 Pressure Units ................................................................................................................................................. 12
3.4.7 Network ............................................................................................................................................................ 13
3.4.8 Timed Mode Changes...................................................................................................................................... 13
3.5 Maintenance.........................................................................................................................................13
3.5.1 Manual Control................................................................................................................................................. 13
3.5.2 Logs.................................................................................................................................................................. 14

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3.5.3 Tests ................................................................................................................................................................. 14
3.5.4 Files .................................................................................................................................................................. 14
3.5.5 Service Tech .................................................................................................................................................... 14
3.5.6 About ................................................................................................................................................................ 14
4. Routine Operation............................................................................................................. 15
4.1 Safety....................................................................................................................................................15
4.2 Operating Notes...................................................................................................................................15
4.3 Selecting Initial Operating Conditions................................................................................................15
4.4 Startup Sequence ................................................................................................................................15
4.5 Shutdown Sequence............................................................................................................................16
4.6 Optimization Procedure.......................................................................................................................16
5. Maintenance....................................................................................................................... 17
5.1 Cleaning Mode .....................................................................................................................................17
5.2 Nebulizer Cleaning Procedure.............................................................................................................17
5.3 Drift Tube Cleaning Procedure............................................................................................................18
5.4 Optics Cleaning Procedure .................................................................................................................18
5.5 Fuse Replacement ...............................................................................................................................19
6. Diagnostics and Troubleshooting ................................................................................... 20
6.1 Errors....................................................................................................................................................20
6.2 Performing Diagnostic Tests...............................................................................................................21
6.2.1 Nebulizer Gas Pressure Test.......................................................................................................................... 21
6.2.2 Gas Flow Test .................................................................................................................................................. 22
6.2.3 Optics Test....................................................................................................................................................... 22
6.2.4 Optics Heating Test......................................................................................................................................... 23
6.3 Diagnosing Baseline Noise .................................................................................................................25
6.4 Troubleshooting Charts.......................................................................................................................26
7. Appendix............................................................................................................................ 28
7.1 Specifications ......................................................................................................................................28
7.2 Replacement Parts...............................................................................................................................28
7.3 Volatile Mobile Phase Modifiers..........................................................................................................29
8.
Contact BUCHI.................................................................................................................... 30
9. Useful References............................................................................................................. 31

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1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 ABOUT THE MODEL 3300 ELSD
The Model 3300 ELSD is designed for use with High
Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) systems to
analyze any sample compound that has sufficiently lower
volatility than the mobile phase. Some of its possible
application areas include carbohydrates, pharmaceuticals,
lipids, triglycerides, underivitized fatty and amino acids,
polymers, surfactants, nutraceuticals, and combinatorial
libraries.
Evaporative light scattering detection eliminates common
problems associated with other HPLC detectors. Refractive
Index (RI) detectors can be complicated by solvent front
interferences, baseline instability, and gradient
incompatibility. RI detectors can also have a less sensitive
response than ELSD. Low-wavelength UV can suffer
baseline drift with steep gradients and also requires that the
analyte contains a chromophore. ELSD does not have these
limitations. It can achieve stable baselines with multisolvent
gradients for improved resolution and faster separations.
Also, since ELSD response does not depend on the sample’s
optical characteristics, the sample does not require a
chromophore or fluorophore for detection.
The Model 3300 ELSD features the most advanced
evaporative light scattering detection technology available. It
provides sensitivity in the low nanogram range. An intuitive,
Windows-based software interface provides a nested menu
of options for detector operation, including Method Wizard for
simplified method development, multiple languages, and built-
in Diagnostic tests for troubleshooting. The Model 3300 ELSD
also features compact, stackable dimensions, allowing it to fit
easily into limited laboratory space.

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1.2 PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION
The unique detection principle of evaporative light scattering
detection involves a three-step process: nebulization of the
column effluent to form an aerosol, solvent evaporation within
a heated drift tube, and detection of the non-volatile solute
particles in the light scattering cell.
NEBULIZATION
EVAPORATION
DETECTION
NEBULIZATION
The column effluent from an HPLC separation enters the
nebulizer, where it is mixed with a steady stream of
nebulizing gas (usually nitrogen) to form an aerosol. The
aerosol consists of a uniform distribution of droplets whose
size is dependent on the gas flow rate used for the analysis.
The lower the gas flow rate used, the larger the resulting
droplets will be. Larger droplets scatter more light and
increase the sensitivity of the analysis, but they are also more
difficult to evaporate in the drift tube. There will be an
optimum gas flow rate for each method which will produce the
highest signal-to-noise ratio.
Lower mobile phase flow rates will require lower gas flow
rates for optimal nebulization. Substitution of a 2.1mm i.d.
column for your standard 4.6mm i.d. column will allow you to
greatly reduce the mobile phase flow rate while also
increasing the sensitivity of the analysis.
EVAPORATION
Evaporation of the volatile components in the aerosol occurs
in a heated, stainless steel drift tube. The optimum drift tube
temperature setting for an application will depend on mobile
phase composition, mobile phase flow rate, and on sample
volatility. Highly organic mobile phases require lower drift
tube temperatures for evaporation than highly aqueous
mobile phases. Lower mobile phase flow rates require lower
drift tube temperatures than higher mobile phase flow rates.
Semi-volatile analytes require the use of much lower drift
tube temperatures to obtain optimum sensitivity. The
optimum temperature should be determined by observing
the signal-to-noise ratio with respect to temperature.
Within the Model 3300 ELSD drift tube, a PTFE-coated,
stainless steel impactor plate is located three inches from
the nebulizer. The plate is perpendicular to the aerosol path
so as the aerosol contacts the plate, larger droplets exit
through the drain tube on the side panel. The remaining
droplets pass around the impactor and travel through the
drift tube to the optical cell for detection. The removal of the
larger droplets allows operation of the Model 3300 ELSD at
low temperatures, making it ideal for the analysis of semi-
volatile compounds.
Non-volatile impurities in the mobile phase or nebulizing gas
will produce noise. Using the highest quality gas, solvents,
and volatile buffers (preferably filtered) will greatly reduce
baseline noise. Noise will also increase if the mobile phase
has not been completely evaporated. Detector settings must
be carefully selected to ensure adequate mobile phase
evaporation.
DETECTION
The non-volatile sample particles emerge from the drift tube
in the mobile phase vapor and enter the light scattering cell.
In the optical cell, sample particles scatter light emitted by a
laser light source. The scattered light is detected by a silicon
photodiode, generating a signal proportional to sample
mass. This signal is sent to the analog output for data
collection. The advanced design of the Model 3300 ELSD
optical components1 provides excellent sensitivity for HPLC
analysis.
1
US Patent #6229605; other patents pending

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2. INSTALLATION
2.1 WHAT YOU WILL NEED
In addition to the Model 3300 ELSD detector and its
accessories, the following will be needed for installation of a
complete chromatographic system:
Exhaust System:
•A fume hood or other ventilation device located close
to the detector to remove the detector exhaust from
the laboratory.
Make sure the exhaust system provides adequate but not
excessive suction. Excessive suction can cause a noisy
baseline.
Gas Supply:
•A supply of clean, dry nebulization gas, preferably
nitrogen, regulated from 65 to 80psig. 99.9% purity or
better is recommended. The gas source can be a high-
pressure gas cylinder, high-pressure liquid tank, or a
nitrogen generator.
HPLC System Components:
•An HPLC pump, isocratic or gradient, capable of
low-pulsation solvent delivery at a flow rate ranging
from at least 0.1 to 1.5mL/min against pressures of
at least 3,000psig. Lower flow rate capabilities may
be necessary for smaller bore columns.
•An autosampler or manual injection valve.
•
A column capable of separating the compounds of
interest.
•A guard column or cartridge compatible with the
separation column is recommended to prolong
separation column lifetime.
•A column heater, if needed.
•A data system or integrator, capable of accepting
analog voltage data. 0-10mV or 0-1000mV systems
can be used.
Other:
•HPLC-grade mobile phase solvents.
Only volatile buffers may be used in the mobile phase.
Refer to Section 7.4, Volatile Mobile Phase Modifiers, for a
list of suitable buffers.
•Solvent reservoirs, tubing, inlet filters, paper, etc.
required for pump and data system operation. Consult
the appropriate manuals for requirements.
2.2 UNPACKING
The Model 3300 ELSD detector and its accessories are
shipped in the same container. Unpack components
carefully, making sure all items in the list below have been
included and are in good condition. Save the container and
packing material for future use.
The Model 3300 ELSD shipping container should contain the
following:
•Model 3300 ELSD
•Model 3300 ELSD Operating Manual
•Model 3300 ELSD Performance Documents
•Model 3300 ELSD Driver for Agilent ChemStation CD*
•Power Cord
•Signal Cable
•PEEK Tubing: 1/16" o.d. x .005" i.d., 10’
•SofGripFittings, 10/pk
•Gas Tubing, 10’
•Gas Fittings: 1/8” Brass Nut and Ferrule
•Drain Tubing, 5’ (Reservoir not included)
•Drain Tubing Clamp
•Exhaust Adapter
•Exhaust Tubing, 20’
•14-Pin Connector
•Open-End Wrench, 3/8" x 7/16"
•Open-End Wrench, 1/4" x 5/16"
•Hex Ball Driver, 3/32" x 5 1/4”
•Hex Ball Driver, 7/64" x 4”
•Drift Tube Cleaning Brush
•Fuse, 5 Amp
*The Model 3300 ELSD Driver for Agilent ChemStation CD
can be used with Agilent ChemStation to control and collect
data from the 3300 ELSD. Agilent ChemStation must be
purchased separately.
The Model 3300 ELSD has been carefully shipped to ensure
that it is received in proper condition. Any damage to the
container or its contents should be reported immediately to
your local BUCHI Customer Service office which can be
found on the BUCHI website at: www.buchi.com. Please
refer to Section 7.5, Warranty, Returns, and Repairs, for
more information.
Refer to Section 7.2, Replacement Parts, for part numbers if
replacement parts are needed.

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2.3 CONTROLS AND FEATURES
Figure 2.1: Front Panel of 3300 ELSD; Door Removed
2.3.1 FRONT PANEL (FIGURE 2.1)
1. LCD (Liquid Crystal Display): The LCD displays the
software interface screens.
2. Soft Power Button: The Model 3300 ELSD can be
powered on/off from the front panel of the unit using the
soft power button. NOTE: The power button on the back
panel must be set to the On position in order for the front
panel button to be active.
3. Liquid Inlet: The column effluent tubing connects to the
LIQUID INLET with a 1/16" male fingertight fitting.
4. Nebulizer Liquid Tubing: The stainless steel tubing
carries the column effluent to the liquid inlet of the
nebulizer.
5. Impactor Cartridge: The cartridge can be removed in
order to access the drift tube for cleaning. Refer to
Section 5.3 for details.
6. Nebulizer: The column effluent and nitrogen gas are
combined within the nebulizer to form an aerosol. The
nebulizer is easily removed for cleaning by using a
counterclockwise twisting motion.
7. Nebulizer Gas Tubing: The gas tubing carries nitrogen
gas to the nebulizer gas inlet.
8. Drain Port: The DRAIN port is located on the right side
panel. The drain tubing and clamp included with the unit
are connected to the DRAIN port and then directed to a
waste reservoir (not included) located at bench level if the
unit is stacked or floor level. NOTE: The drain tubing
must not be submerged in the liquid inside the reservoir
during operation.
9. Keypad: The keypad is used to interact with the software
interface screens.
10. Removable Door (not shown): The front door can be
opened or removed to access the nebulizer and drift tube
for cleaning. To remove the door, gently pull the door
towards you.
1
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4 5
6
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2.3.2 BACK PANEL (FIGURE 2.2)
Figure 2.2: Model 3300 ELSD Back Panel
1. Signal Output: The signal cable included with the unit is
connected to the SIGNAL OUTPUT port on the back
panel of the unit and is used to send the analog signal to
the data collection device.
2. RS-232: This port is currently reserved for service tech
functions only.
3. USB Host: A pen drive (not included) can be inserted
into this port for file importing/exporting and software
upgrades. Also for possible future pc control capabilities.
4. USB Device: This port is currently reserved for service
tech functions only.
5. Ethernet: This port can be used with the 3300 ELSD
Driver for Agilent ChemStation. This port is also used for
service tech functions.
6. 14-Pin Connector: Outputs TTL/contact closure signals
or accepts signals from peripheral equipment.
7. Exhaust Outlet: Nebulizer gas, mobile phase vapor, and
solute mist or particles produced during an analysis will
exit the detector through the EXHAUST outlet. The
exhaust outlet accepts the exhaust adapter and exhaust
tubing included with the unit, which must be then directed
to a fume hood.
8. Fan: Provides cooling airflow through the instrument. Do
not block.
9. Power Module: The power module contains a socket for
the incoming power cord. It also contains the main power
switch, which is used to turn the system power On/Off,
and the line fuse. The module is autoselecting for 85-
265V and contains a 5 Amp fuse.
10. Gas Inlet: The GAS INLET accepts the nebulizer gas
supply tubing. The inlet features a quick-connect port,
which requires no additional fittings. Gas pressure should
be regulated from 65 – 80psig.
1
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5
6
7
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2.4 MAKING ELECTRICAL AND FLUID
CONNECTIONS
1. Unpacking the Unit: Remove the ELSD from its shipping
container and position it on a level surface near the
column outlet of your HPLC system and the fume hood.
Make sure there is free flow of air to the bottom of the
ELSD and to the cooling fan at the back panel of the
ELSD. Allow the detector to warm to ambient temperature
if necessary. Save the shipping container for future use.
2. Exhaust Adapter: Screw in the threaded exhaust
adapter provided in the accessory kit to the EXHAUST
port on the back panel of the unit.
3. Fill the Internal Drain Reservoir: Place a beaker under
the DRAIN port on the right side panel. Using a water
bottle or pipette, add water into the EXHAUST port on the
back panel of the unit until excess liquid is seen exiting
the DRAIN port. Filling the internal drain reservoir
prevents gas from escaping the drift tube.
4. Power Connection: Plug the power cord provided with
the unit into the power module on the back panel of the
detector. The module is autoselecting for 85-265V.
Only use the power supply cord
recommended by the
manufacturer.
5. 14-Pin Connector: Insert the 14-pin connector into the
port on the back panel. Make the appropriate wiring
connections to the 14-pin connector depending on which
of the following functions are needed:
Start: Pin 1: Ground (-) Pin 2: Signal (+)
Pins 1 and 2 on the Model 3300 ELSD can accept a
TTL/contact closure signal to start a method run on the
detector.
Standby: Pin 3: Ground (-) Pin 4: Signal (+)
Pins 3 and 4 on the Model 3300 ELSD can accept a
TTL/contact closure signal to put the detector into
Standby mode.
Gas Shutoff: Pin 5: Ground (-) Pin 6: Signal (+)
Pins 5 and 6 on the Model 3300 ELSD can accept a
TTL/contact closure signal to turn off gas flow at the end
of a run. This signal is typically sent from an autosampler
or a data collection system. Consult the appropriate
manuals for wiring information.
Autozero: Pin 7: Ground (-) Pin 8: Signal (+)
Pins 7 and 8 on the Model 3300 ELSD can accept a
TTL/contact closure signal from a start signal cable to
autozero the detector. This signal is typically sent from an
autosampler or a manual injection valve with a position-
sensing switch. Consult the appropriate manuals for wiring
information.
External Output: Pin 9: Normally Open (NO) (+)
Pin 10: Common (-)
Pin 11: Normally Closed (NC) (+)
Pins 9, 10, and 11 on the Model 3300 ELSD can output a
TTL/contact closure signal to other instruments. Consult
the appropriate manuals for wiring details.
Fault Relay: Pin 12: Normally Open (NO) (+)
Pin 13: Common (-)
Pin 14: Normally Closed (NC) (+)
Pins 12, 13, and 14 on the Model 3300 ELSD can output
a TTL/contact closure signal to stop pump flow when an
error occurs on the detector. Consult the appropriate
manuals for wiring details.
6. Gas Connection: Connect the nitrogen gas supply
tubing to the GAS INLET on the back panel. The nitrogen
gas supply should be regulated from 65 – 80psig. A
stable gas flow and pressure are necessary for
reproducible results. The gas must be free of
contaminants, such as oil, water, particulates, or any other
non-volatile substances. A 0.1um gas filter is built into the
instrument.
7. Liquid Connection: Connect the column effluent line to
the LIQUID INLET with a 1/16" male fitting. The i.d. and
length of the tubing between the column and the detector
should be kept as small as possible to avoid band
broadening. 0.005" i.d. tubing is recommended for best
results. Tubing and fittings are included in the ELSD 3300
accessory kit.
8. Drain Setup: Attach the drain tubing and clamp included
with the detector to the DRAIN OUTLET on the right side
panel. Extend the tubing to a drain waste container (not
included) either at bench level if the detector is stacked or
at floor level. Make sure the container is sealed to prevent
solvent fumes from escaping. Monitor the liquid level in
the container during operation and decant excess liquid
when the level approaches the top of the container.
Do NOT allow the tubing to become
submerged in the liquid inside the
container. Remember that the waste
container will contain solvents from
your mobile phase and should be
disposed of properly.
9. Signal Output: Connect the signal cable provided with
the unit to the SIGNAL OUTPUT port on the back panel of
the detector and connect to your data collection device.
10.Exhaust Tubing: Connect the exhaust tubing included
with the unit to the EXHAUST outlet on the rear panel of
the unit. Extend the tubing to the hood/ventilation system.
There should be no low spots in the tubing where
condensate can collect.
Make sure the exhaust system provides adequate but
not excessive suction. Excessive suction can cause a
noisy baseline.

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3. NAVIGATING THE SOFTWARE
INTERFACE
The Model 3300 software interface features a collapsible
menu located in the upper left corner of the LCD screen. The
following sections describe the software menu options in
detail. The Help Button, “?” can be pressed in many
software screens in order to access Help Screens which offer
assistance with using the software functions.
3.1 MAIN SCREEN
The Operation screen is the main screen displayed during
use of the instrument. This screen provides the following
information for the currently loaded method:
•Method Name: Currently loaded method name.
•Temperature: Set point and read value of the drift tube
temperature in °C. The temperature range is from 25.0 to
120.0oC. NOTE: There are two heated zones in the drift
tube, a lower zone and an upper zone. The value
displayed on the main screen is the average value for the
two zones.
•Gas Flow: Set point and read value of the nebulizer gas
flow rate in L/min. The gas flow range is from 0.0 to
4.0L/min.
•Gain: Current gain setting. Possible gain values are 1,
2, 4, 8, and 16. A gain setting of 1 produces an
unamplified signal, and each increase in gain setting
produces twofold signal amplification over the previous
setting.
•Signal Output: The signal output in mV is displayed
when the instrument is in Run or Cleaning modes. The
output is not displayed in Standby or Heating modes. If
the output value exceeds 2.5V, the signal output will read
‘High’. If output drops below -500mV, the signal output
will read ‘Low’.
•Method Run Time: The elapsed time for the method run
is displayed in the upper right corner if a method run has
been started. The time value will remain until the method
run has been stopped.
•Chart: The chromatogram trace of up to 60 minutes will
be active for Run and Cleaning modes.
•Mode: The current mode of the detector (Standby, Run,
Heating, or Cleaning).
•Equilibrating Indicator: If the detector is in Run mode
and the heaters and gas flow have not reached their set
points, the screen will display “Equilibrating” next to the
Mode status until the equilibration requirements are met.
The equilibration requirements are: lower drift tube,
upper drift tube, and optics block must be within 1.5C of
their set points; gas flow must be within 0.3L/min of its
set point; the temperatures and gas flow must meet the
requirements for 60 seconds before the message
disappears.
•Timed Mode Change Reminder (not shown): If a
timed mode change has been scheduled, a reminder for
the event will be displayed next to the Mode status.
•Errors: Any errors that occur on the instrument will be
displayed in the lower right corner of the screen.
The software Menu is located in the upper left corner of the
screen. There are four main Menu headers: Operation,
Method, Configuration, and Maintenance. The following
sections describe the software functions within these
headers.
3.2 OPERATION
3.2.1 MODE
The Model 3300 ELSD has four operational modes: Standby,
Run, Heating, and Cleaning.
STANDBY MODE
Select Operation/Mode/Standby and press Enter to put the
detector into Standby mode. In Standby mode, the heaters,
gas flow, and laser are off. The signal output is not
displayed, and the chromatogram trace is not active. The
detector enters Standby mode after power-up with the last
saved method conditions.
RUN MODE
Select Operation/Mode/Run and press Enter to put the
detector into Run mode. In Run mode, the heaters, gas flow,
and laser are on. The signal output is displayed and the
chromatogram trace is active. Run mode is used for sample
analysis.

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HEATING MODE
Select Operation/Mode/Heating and press Enter to put the
detector into Heating mode. In Heating mode, the heaters are
on, but the gas flow and laser are off. The signal output is not
displayed and the chromatogram trace is not active. Heating
mode keeps the detector in a ready state, so the user won’t
have to wait for temperature equilibration when switching to
Run mode for sample analysis.
CLEANING MODE
Select Operation/Mode/Cleaning and press Enter to put the
detector into Cleaning mode. In Cleaning mode, the heaters,
gas flow, and laser are on. Temperature is set to 110oC, gas
flow is set to 2.0L/min, and Gain is set to 1. The detector
should be run with 100% water or other suitable solvent at
1.0mL/min for at least one hour to clean the detector.
Cleaning mode can be used for routine cleaning of the
detector to prevent any buildup of sample materials inside the
drift tube and optics. A dirty drift tube and optics can cause
excess baseline noise.
3.2.2 START/STOP RUN
Select Operation/Start Run and press Enter to manually start
a method run. The method elapsed time will then appear in
the upper right corner of the screen above the output, and the
timed events programmed in the method will start. This
function should be used only if timed events will be used with
the method. Select Operation/Stop Run and press Enter to
manually stop the method run. Refer to Section 3.3.1 for
more information on programming timed method events.
Alternately, method timed events can be started by
connecting the proper wiring to the Start input pins on the
back panel of the unit. Refer to Section 2.4 for details.
3.2.3 LOCK/UNLOCK DETECTOR
The Lock Detector option can be used to lock the method
settings on the detector to prevent unwanted method
changes during operation.
Select Operation/Lock Detector and press Enter to reach the
Lock Detector screen. Enter and then re-enter the PIN using
the keypad. Press Accept to lock the detector, or press
Cancel to cancel locking the detector.
To unlock the detector, select Operation/Unlock Detector and
press Enter to bring up the Unlock Detector screen. Enter the
PIN created when the detector was locked to unlock the
detector. The detector can also be unlocked by recycling the
power on the unit.
3.2.4 CHART
The Chart displays a scalable chromatogram trace of up to 60
minutes.
ZOOM
The Zoom function can be used to zoom in/out on the
chromatogram trace. Select Operation/Chart/Zoom and press
Enter, and the zoom tool will appear in the lower left corner of
the screen. Use the up arrow to Zoom out the Y-axis; use the
down arrow to Zoom in the Y-axis; use the left arrow to zoom
in the X-axis; or use the right arrow to zoom out the x-axis.
Once the desired chart view has been achieved, press
Accept to save the new chart view, or press Cancel to return
to the original chart view. The x-axis range is –60 to 0
minutes. The y-axis range is –500mV to 2.5V. To reach Pan
directly from Zoom, press Enter.

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PAN
The Pan function can be used to pan left, right, up, or down
on the chromatogram trace. Select Operation/Chart/Pan and
press Enter and the Pan tool will appear in the lower left
corner of the screen. Use the up arrow to Pan up the Chart;
use the down arrow to Pan down the Chart; use the left arrow
to Pan left on the Chart; or use the right arrow to Pan right on
the Chart. Once the desired chart view has been achieved,
press Accept to save the new chart view, or press Cancel to
return to the original chart view. The x-axis range is –60 to 0
minutes. The y-axis range is –500mV to 2.5V. To go directly
to Zoom from Pan, press Enter.
USER DEFINED SCALE
The User Defined Scale screen can be used to enter user
defined x-axis and y-axis values for the chart scaling. Select
Operation/Chart/User Defined Scale and press Enter to reach
the User Defined Scale screen. Enter the minimum and
maximum x-axis and y-axis values in the window that
appears. The x-axis range is –60 to 0 minutes. The y-axis
range is –500mV to 2.5V. Once the new chart values have
been entered, press Accept to save the new chart settings or
press Cancel to return to the original settings.
ENABLE/DISABLE Y-AXIS AUTOSCALE
The Enable Y-Axis Autoscale function causes the chart to
automatically scale to the highest peak and ensures that the
chromatogram trace will always be on-scale. Select
Operation/Chart/Enable Y-Axis Autoscale and press Enter to
enable this feature. Select Operation/Chart/Disable Y-Axis
Autoscale and press Enter to disable this feature.
RESET SCALE
The Reset Scale function will zoom out the chart view to its
maximum x-axis and y-axis values: -60 to 0 min; -500mV to
2.5V. Select Operation/Chart/Reset Scale and press Enter
to reset the chart axes.
3.2.5 AUTOZERO
The Autozero function can be used to zero the output on the
detector. To autozero, select Operation/Autozero and press
Enter using the up/down arrows on the keypad. The autozero
voltage will depend on the full-scale voltage setting on the
detector. For a 1V full-scale voltage setting, the default
Autozero value is 5mV. For a 10mV full-scale voltage setting,
the default Autozero value is 0mV. If the Custom Autozero
Output has been enabled, the detector will be autozeroed to
the value selected, from 0 to 100mV. Refer to Section 3.3.2
for more details on setting the Custom Autozero Output
value.
3.3 METHOD
Methods are created to set the temperature, gas flow, gain,
and event settings on the detector.
3.3.1 NEW
Select Method/New and press Enter to bring up the New
Method window. Enter the Method Name, Temperature, Gas
Flow, Gain, and Timed Events using the keypad. Use the
up/down arrows to tab through the method parameters.
Method Name: The Method Name may include the following
characters: A - Z, a - z, 1 - 9, <space>, or . (period). Rapidly
press a button on the keypad to cycle between letter and
number options. For upper case, press Shift and then enter
the letter. The method name may contain up to 80 characters;
only 25 will be displayed in the main operation screen due to
space limitations.
Temperature: Enter a temperature value between 25-120oC
using the keypad.
Gas Flow: Enter a value between 0.0 – 4.0L/min using the
keypad.
Gain: Enter a value of 1, 2, 4, 8, or 16 using the keypad.
Each increase in gain setting will produce twofold signal
amplification over the previous setting.
Events: Events can be added to the method in order to
program timed gain changes or timed external output events.
Timed gain changes can be used so sample compounds of
widely varying concentration can be on-scale in the same
chromatogram. Timed external output events can be used to
trigger events on other instruments.

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New Event
To add a new timed event, use the up/down arrows to
highlight the New button and press Enter. The New Event
window will then appear. Enter the Event Time, from 0 – 60
minutes. Enter the Event Type (Change Gain or Set Control
Relay). If Change Gain has been selected, then enter the
Gain value: 1, 2, 4, 8, or 16. If Set Control Relay has been
selected, select On or Off for the External Contact. Once the
new event has been created, press Accept to save the new
event, or press Cancel to cancel the new event.
Edit Event
To Edit an existing event, use the up/down arrows to highlight
the event to be edited from the table. Then use the right
arrow to select Edit and press Enter. The Edit Event table will
then appear, and any changes to the Event Time, Event
Type, Gain, or External Contact can be made. Press Accept
to save the event changes, or press Cancel to cancel the
changes.
Delete Event
To Delete an event, use the up/down arrows to highlight the
event to be deleted from the table. Then use the right arrow
and the down arrow to select Delete, and press Enter. The
event will then be deleted.
Once all method parameters have been entered, press
Accept to save the new method. A Save Method window will
then appear requesting a method number to be selected.
Use the up/down arrows or the keypad to select a method
number for the new method. Press Accept to save the new
method, or press Cancel to cancel the new method.
3.3.2 OPEN
Select Method/Open and press Enter to open an existing
method. The Open Method window will then appear. Use the
up/down arrows or keypad to select a method from the list.
Press Accept and the method will then load on the main
screen, or press Cancel to cancel loading the method.
3.3.3 EDIT
To Edit an existing method, select Method/Edit and press
Enter. The Edit Method window will then appear. Use the
up/down arrows to tab through the method parameters and
enter a new Method Name, Temperature, Gas Flow, Gain,
and/or Events using the keypad. Press Accept to save the
new method settings, or press Cancel to return to the original
method settings.
3.3.4 DELETE
To Delete a method, select Method/Delete and press Enter.
The Delete Method window will then appear. Select a
method to delete from the list using the up/down arrows or by
entering/cycling a number. Press Accept to delete the
method, or press Cancel to cancel deleting the method.

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3.3.5 WIZARD
The Method Wizard can help provide initial detector settings
based on the mobile phase solvent composition, mobile
phase flow rate, and sample concentration. Select
Method/Wizard and press Enter, and the first Method Wizard
screen will appear:
Select Mobile Phase Solvents
Use the left/right arrow keys to select from the list of solvents.
Use the up/down arrows to tab down the table. Enter a
percentage for each solvent. The total percentage must add
up to 100%. Once the solvents/percentages have been
entered, press Continue to continue on to the next screen in
the Method Wizard, or press Cancel to cancel using the
Method Wizard.
Mobile Phase Flow Rate
Select the Mobile Phase flow rate using the left/right arrows.
Possible choices are 0.2, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0mL/min. Press
Continue to continue on to the next Method Wizard screen, or
press Cancel to cancel the Method Wizard.
Sample Concentration
Use the left/right arrows to select the sample concentration
from the list. Press Continue to reach the next Method
Wizard screen, or press Cancel to cancel using the Method
Wizard.
Finished
The final screen in the Method Wizard provides the
recommended Temperature, Gas Flow, and Gain settings
based on the mobile phase solvent composition, mobile
phase flow rate, and sample concentration. Press Finish to
continue creating the method, and the New Method window
will appear, or press Cancel to cancel the Method Wizard.
3.4 CONFIGURATION
3.4.1 ALARM
The Alarm function can be used to sound an alarm when
errors occur on the detector. Select Configuration/Alarm and
press Enter to bring up the Alarm Configuration window. Use
the left/right arrows to select Enabled or Disabled. If Enabled,
the alarm will sound when errors occur on the unit and will
continue to sound until the errors are remedied. If Disabled,
the alarm will not sound when errors occur on the unit. Press
Accept to save the alarm configuration, or press Cancel to
return to the original alarm configuration.
3.4.2 OUTPUTS
Select Configuration/Outputs and press Enter to configure the
outputs on the unit.

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Fault Relay
Use the left/right arrow keys to select Enabled or Disabled for
the Fault Relay setting. If Enabled, the detector will output a
signal that can be connected to a pump to stop the pump if
errors occur on the unit. The proper wiring must be
connected for the Fault Relay to work. If Disabled, errors will
not trigger an output to a pump for pump shutdown. Refer to
Section 2.4 for wiring details.
Full-Scale Voltage
Use the left/right arrows to select 10mV or 1V for the full-
scale voltage, depending on your data collection system.
Custom Autozero
Use the left/right arrows to select Enabled or Disabled for the
Custom Autozero. If Enabled, the user can select an
Autozero Offset, from 0 – 100mV. If Disabled, the Autozero
will be based on the full-scale voltage setting on the detector:
5mV for 1V FS; 0mV for 10mV FS.
Autozero Offset
If the Custom Autozero has been enabled, enter a value from
0 – 100mV for the Autozero offset. This is the signal output
that will be displayed when the detector is autozeroed. If the
Custom Autozero has been disabled, then the Autozero
Offset will be grayed out. Press Accept to save the changes
to the Outputs Configuration, or press Cancel to cancel the
changes.
3.4.3 DISPLAY
Select Configuration/Display and press Enter to bring up the
Display Configuration screen. Use the up/down arrows to
adjust the Display Contrast. The up arrow lightens the
display, and the down arrow darkens the display. Press
Accept to save the new Display settings.
3.4.4 DATE AND TIME
Select Configuration/Date and Time and press Enter to bring
up the Date and Time Configuration screen. Enter the Date
(month, day, and year) and the Time (hour, minute, and
second) using the keypad. Use the up/down arrows to tab
across the entry blanks. Select the Time Zone from the list
using the left/right arrows. Press Accept to save the changes,
or press Cancel to cancel the changes.
3.4.5 LANGUAGE
The Model 3300 ELSD can be configured for the following
languages: English, Spanish, French, German, Italian,
Korean, Chinese (Simplified), and Japanese. The unit must
have the correct software versions installed in order to be
compatible with certain languages; contact BUCHI for details.
Select Configuration/Language and press Enter to bring up
the Language Configuration screen. Use the up/down arrows
to select a language from the list. Press Accept to save the
new language configuration, or press Cancel to cancel the
new language configuration.
The unit must be restarted before the language change can
take effect. Select Yes to restart the device and change the
language, or select No and the new language will take effect
the next time the unit is rebooted.
3.4.6 PRESSURE UNITS
Select Configuration/Pressure Units and press Enter to
configure the pressure units on the detector. Select either
Bar or Psi.

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3.4.7 NETWORK
Select Configuration/Network and press Enter to bring up the
Network Configuration window. Select DHCP Enabled or
Disabled. If Disabled is selected, enter the IP address,
Subnet Mask, and Gateway settings. If Enabled is selected,
the IP address, Subnet Mask, and Gateway will be grayed
out. Press Accept to save the new settings, or press Cancel
to cancel the new settings.
3.4.8 TIMED MODE CHANGES
Timed Mode Change Events can be used to put the detector
into another operation mode using a timer. This can be
convenient to schedule routine cleaning, heating, etc. events.
A reminder for the next Timed Mode Change will be displayed
on the main screen next to the Mode.
NEW TIMED MODE CHANGE
Select Configuration/Timed Mode Changes/New and press
Enter to bring up the New Timed Mode Change Event
window. Select an Event Type from the list using the left/right
arrows keys: Change to Standby mode, Change to Heating
mode, Change to Run mode, or Change to Cleaning mode.
Select the Recurrence using the left/right arrow keys: Once,
Weekly, or Monthly. For a Recurrence of Once, enter the
Day of Month, Month, Hour, Year, and Minute. Use the
up/down arrows to tab through the entry blanks. For Weekly
Recurrence, enter the Day of Week, Hour, and Minute. For
Monthly Recurrence, enter the Day of Month, Hour, and
Minute. Press Accept to save the new event settings, or
press Cancel to cancel the new event settings.
EDIT TIMED MODE CHANGE
To Edit a Timed Mode Change Event, select
Configuration/Timed Mode Changes/Edit and press Enter.
Use the up/down arrows to select an event from the table.
Press Accept to select the event to be edited, or press Cancel
to cancel the editing.
If Accept has been selected, the Edit Timed Mode Change
Event window will appear. Make the desired changes to the
Timed Mode Change Event. Press Accept to save the
changes, or press Cancel to cancel the changes.
DELETE TIMED MODE CHANGE
Select Maintenance/Timed Mode Changes/Delete and press
Enter to delete a timed mode change event. Use the
up/down arrows to highlight the event to be deleted from the
table. Once the event has been highlighted, press Accept to
delete the selected event; or press Cancel to cancel deleting
the event.
3.5 MAINTENANCE
3.5.1 MANUAL CONTROL
Select Maintenance/Manual Control and press Enter to reach
the Manual Control screen.
Laser: On/Off
Press 1 to toggle the Laser On or Off. The current signal
output value is also displayed in mV.

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Gas Flow: On/Off
Press 2 to toggle the Gas Flow On or Off. The current gas
flow rate and nebulizer gas pressure are also displayed.
Lower Drift Tube: On/Off
Press 3 to toggle the Lower Drift Tube heater On or Off. The
current Lower Drift Tube Temperature value is also displayed.
Upper Drift Tube: On/Off
Press 4 to toggle the Upper Drift Tube heater On or Off. The
current Upper Drift Tube Temperature is also displayed.
Optics Block: On/Off
Press 5 to toggle the Optics Block heater On or Off. The
current Optics Block temperature is also displayed. The
Optics Block heats to 90% of the drift tube temperature set
point.
Press Accept to return to the main screen, and the detector
will return to its original settings.
3.5.2 LOGS
VIEW ERROR LOG
Select Maintenance/Logs/View Error Log and press Enter to
access the Error Logs on the unit. Each error log entry
contains the Time, Method, Mode, and Description of the
error.
3.5.3 TESTS
Diagnostic tests can be run to help troubleshoot the unit. The
available tests are:
•Nebulizer Gas Pressure Test
•Gas Flow Test
•Optics Test
•Optics Heating Test
Select Maintenance/Tests/Nebulizer Gas Pressure Test, Gas
Flow Test, Optics Test, or Optics Heating Test and press
Enter to run a test. Refer to Section 6.2 for details on these
tests.
3.5.4 FILES
Files can be imported or exported from the unit using a pen
drive inserted into the USB Host port on the back panel of the
unit. NOTE: The pen drive must be 128MB or less; pen
drives with higher memory are NOT compatible with the 3300
ELSD.
EXPORT
To Export files from the detector, insert a pen drive into the
USB Host port on the back panel of the unit. Select
Maintenance/Files/Export/Configuration, Methods, or Error
Log and press Enter. The selected files will be exported to the
pen drive, and the pen drive containing the files can then be
removed.
IMPORT
To Import files to the detector, insert a pen drive containing
the files into the USB Host port on the back panel of the unit.
Select Maintenance/Files/Import/Configuration or Methods
and press Enter. The selected files will be imported from the
pen drive, and the pen drive can then be removed.
3.5.5 SERVICE TECH
Service Tech functions are reserved for qualified personnel
only.
3.5.6 ABOUT
Select Maintenance/About and press Enter to display the
current software versions on the unit. Press Accept to return
to the main screen.