CAMAG TLC Visualizer 2 User manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
TLC VISUALIZER 2

Content
1Introduction.................................................................................................................................... 2
1.1 Precaution................................................................................................................................. 2
1.2 Parts supplied............................................................................................................................ 4
2Unpacking/Installation .................................................................................................................. 5
2.1 Unpacking ................................................................................................................................ 5
2.2 Installation environment............................................................................................................ 5
2.3 Connection ............................................................................................................................... 6
2.4 Mount the opaque glass and L-shaped plate adjuster................................................................ 6
2.5 Digital camera........................................................................................................................... 7
2.6 Settings in visionCATS............................................................................................................... 8
Reference point................................................................................................................................. 8
Set the lens focal length.................................................................................................................... 8
Electronic adjustment........................................................................................................................ 8
3Getting started ............................................................................................................................... 9
3.1 The Instrument.......................................................................................................................... 9
3.2 Control panel ............................................................................................................................ 9
3.3 Illumination............................................................................................................................. 10
3.4 Operation ............................................................................................................................... 10
3.5 Viewing flap............................................................................................................................ 11
4Service and maintenance ............................................................................................................ 11
4.1 User maintenance ................................................................................................................... 11
4.2 Maintenance Data Sheet......................................................................................................... 11
4.3Trouble shooting..................................................................................................................... 12
Replacing fluorescent tubes ............................................................................................................ 12
Replacing the fuses ......................................................................................................................... 12
Camera access ................................................................................................................................ 13
Error messages................................................................................................................................ 13
5Technical data............................................................................................................................... 14
6Appendix A: Illumination spectra............................................................................................... 14
Declaration of Conformity (DoC)

Introduction
Instruction Manual, Oct-16 2
1Introduction
The CAMAG Visualizer 2 has been designed specifically for digital documentation of thin-
layer chromatograms and similar flat objects.
UVA (365 / 366 nm broadband) direct light. (see appendix)
This type of illumination is used for thin-layer chromatograms and other fluorescent
objects.
Under this light fluorescent objects appear as bright and often differently coloured spots
on a dark background. The higher the density of the UV radiation and the more effectively
the visible light is filtered out and extraneous light screened off, the greater the sensitivity
of detection by this method. The fluorescence indicator F254 frequently present on thin-
layer plates is not necessary for this mode of detection, but does not interfere with it
either.
UVC (254nm narrowband) direct light. (see appendix)
This type of illumination is used almost exclusively for thin-layer chromatograms.
Substances which absorb this light appear under it as dark spots on a bright background
if the layer contains an appropriate F254 fluorescent indicator. UV density and elimination
of visible light are less critical for this mode of detection.
White light (direct or transmitted, separately and combined)
Used for recording visible, opaque objects.
For recording translucent objects such as thin-layer chromatograms, direct light alone
gives the best color accuracy, a combination of direct and transmitted light intensifies the
contrast.
Transmitted light should be used for recording transparent objects.
1.1 Precaution
•Please read this operating manual before starting the installation!
•This manual contains information and warnings the user has to follow to
ensure reliable operation of the instrument.
•Some interior parts of the instrument are under AC power. Careless and
improper use can cause injury. Unauthorized manipulations can cause
damage
•This sign indicates (on instrument and in this manual) that failure to take
note of the accompanying information may result in damage of the
instrument
•The instrument is manufactured and tested in accordance with the
respective European safety regulations (see Declaration of Conformity). The
instrument complies with safety class 1 and has been designed for indoor

Introduction
Instruction Manual, Oct-16 3
use only (IP 20). Further, this device has passed the CAMAG Quality
Assurance tests and has been delivered in a safe operating condition. For
detailed instrument data see chapter technical data
•Attention: For safety reasons the instrument may only be used for the
purposes described in the operating manual
•To avoid injury use adequate safety equipment (protective goggles, gloves
etc.) when working with the instrument
•Before first operation, check whether the voltage shown on the instrument
matches your local mains voltage. The power cord may only be connected
to a grounded, fused (not higher than 16A) outlet. Do not use extension
cords without ground contact
•Risk of finger squeeze between moving parts; be careful closing the door
•The instrument may be used only by properly trained laboratory staff
•The instrument may not be used in rooms with danger of explosions
•The instrument contains highly sophisticated electronics and optical parts.
It may be operated only in a non-condensing atmosphere between 15 and
30° C (59 - 86 degrees Fahrenheit). Before installation and use, the
instrument should be acclimated properly
•Use a damp lint free cloth for cleaning the instrument surface. Do not
employ aggressive detergents
•Protect yourself and the instrument from electrostatic shock which can
cause damage to the electronic parts
•Only authorized personnel may open the instrument. Service and repair is
only to be performed by trained specialists. Use spare parts and
consumables supplied by CAMAG only. The warranty is voided if parts
from other sources are used. Check the service manual before you start
service to reduce product-specific risks
•The power cord has to be removed before the instrument is opened. It is
not permitted to work on an instrument that has been opened and is
connected to the power supply
•Spare fuses must be of the type specified by the instrument manufacturer.
It is forbidden to short-circuit or manipulate fuses
•If the instrument is found to be defective, it must be switched off and
steps must be taken to ensure that it cannot be switched on by mistake
•Carry out all safety checks and the preventive maintenance as
recommended by the manufacturer in order to assure your personal safety
and the full functionality of the instrument. Have an authorized service
specialist perform any service not described by this manual

Introduction
Instruction Manual, Oct-16 4
•See original manufacturers' manuals for further safety data on third party
equipment supplied with the system
•Lift/move/transport the system with the necessary care (remove the glass
plate before transport, transport it only in the original packaging)
•The safety of any system incorporated with the equipment is the
responsibility of the assembler of the system
•This symbol indicates that this equipment must not be disposed of as
unsorted municipal waste but is to be collected separately as electrical and
electronic equipment (WEEE-Directive 2002/96/EC). To properly recycle the
instrument or parts of it you are requested to send the equipment back to
the distributor, producer or an adequate collection system at the end of its
life. This will have potential effects on the environment and human health
•When working with UV light, especially with short-wave UV light, be sure
to protect your eyes and skin from direct radiation, which inevitably causes
irritation and inflammation. Ordinary goggles provide protection, but it is
advisable to wear safety glasses or a face shield and gloves.
1.2 Parts supplied
CAMAG TLC Visualizer 2 basic comprising:
Part no
Units
Description
959.0520
1
Lens 12mm with NIR filter or
959.0521
1
Lens 16mm with NIR filter
115.9802
1
TLC-Plate positioner
692.0024
1
Opal glass
1
Power cord
125.1021
1
RS232 connecting cable
B.022.9810E
1
Operating Instruction
958.0866
1
USB 3.0 cable, angled
022.9596
1
Resolution test sheet
Accessories and spare parts
Part no Description
352.0010
UV tube short wave (254nm) 8W, D=16mm, L=288mm
352.0011
UV tube long wave(366nm) 8W, D=16mm, L=288mm
352.0015
White light tube 8W, D=16, L=288mm
362.0006
Fuses 250V 1AT (2pcs)
692.0021
Spare UV 254 filter for side reflectors
692.0022
Spare UV 366 filter for side reflectors
692.0023
Spare glass for side reflectors
692.0024
Spare opaque glass
115.9785
Filter support left complete
115.9786
Filter support right complete

Unpacking/Installation
Instruction Manual, Oct-16 5
2Unpacking/Installation
2.1 Unpacking
•Observe the environmental requirements (2.2 Installation environment)
when setting up the instrument
•Carefully unpack all components and accessories listed on the shipping list.
Make sure the shipment is complete
•Carefully remove the instrument from the package and place it on a table
•Attention: Do not pull out the instrument by holding it at the blue sliding
gate; grab the instrument at the bottom when taking it out of the package
and carrying it around!
2.2 Installation environment
The place for installation must meet the following requirements:
Bench space
Width 50 cm
Depth 60 cm (add adequate space for the connecting cables)
Height 65 cm
Weight
17kg
Operating
temperature
The temperature should be within a range of 15 to 35 degrees
centigrade
Humidity
Humidity and temperature conditions must not cause condensation
Atmospheric
conditions
Adequate ventilation free from acidic, alkaline or other gas that may
corrode metal or painted surfaces must be secured
Line voltage
100-240V (see rating plate on instrument)
Frequency
50 – 60 Hz
Power capacity
50 W Illumination unit / 3.5 W Camera (USB 3)
Ground terminal
A grounded outlet should be located within 2 meters of the instrument
Further requirements:
•Do not expose the instrument to any strong vibration or shock
•Avoid placing the instrument near equipment that radiates heat. Do not
place the instrument near gas burners, electric heaters or ovens
•Do not place the instrument near equipment that generates intense
magnetic fields such as electric welding equipment, high frequency
furnaces, pole transformers, etc.
•Protect the instrument from excessive dust
•Connect the instrument to power lines that are free from sudden changes
or voltage fluctuations
•If you must use power motor driven equipment (such as a stirrer or shaker)
in the same line as your instrument, ensure that a noise reduction unit is in
the same power line

Unpacking/Installation
Instruction Manual, Oct-16 6
2.3 Connection
•Use the original supplied power cord for connecting the instrument to the
mains outlet
•Connect the serial cable to the instrument and to a free COM-port of the
PC
Fig. 1 Back view with serial connector (left) and mains connector (right)
2.4 Mount the opaque glass and L-shaped plate adjuster
•After unpacking the opaque glass plate insert it, opaque side down, into
the open frame inside of the CAMAG TLC Visualizer 2
How to identify the opaque side:
Hold the opaque glass over a piece of paper with printed text. The opaque side is
down if you can read the text.
Correct: Opaque side down Wrong: Opaque side up
•Insert the L-shaped plate positioner in one of the three possible positions
•To relocate the L-shaped plate positioner, lift it slightly and move it along
the guiding slots leading to one of the three different positions (Positions
are adjusted to the TLC/HPTLC plate size in use).
Make sure the cams have snapped into the desired position.

Unpacking/Installation
Instruction Manual, Oct-16 7
Plate
size
Position of plate
positioner Instrument
10x10
20x10
20x20
2.5 Digital camera
When the CAMAG TLC Visualizer 2 is shipped the camera is already mounted in
an adjusted position, therefore no mechanical adjustment is necessary.
•In order to work with the USB Camera, visionCATS requires the installation
of appropriate camera driver on the PC. The related driver files can be
found on the visionCATS installation media in the drivers directory
•In the Baumer Camera Directory choose the sub directory appropriate to
the instrument and current operation system. Double click the
“bdriver_usbxx.msi” file and follow the instructions on screen
•Remove the black cover on the camera lens

Unpacking/Installation
Instruction Manual, Oct-16 8
2.6 Settings in visionCATS
Reference point
Under Options/General Setting/ Global Configuration the setting „TLC Visualizer 2
uses the same reference point as a TLC Scanner 3/4” is active by default. This sets
the reference point as on the TLC Scanner, ATS 4 and Linomat 5. If active, the
plate has to be inserted with the application position first. If the instrument is used
to check the plate through the viewing flap or if the reference point has to be
identical as in first generation CAMAG TLC Visualizer, this option has to be
disabled in visionCATS. The plate has to be inserted with the solvent front first
To change the reference point:
•Go to Options/General Setting/ Global Configuration
•Under Analysis deactivate the point “TLC Visualizer 2 uses the same
reference point as a TLC Scanner 3/4”
•Save the setting
Set the lens focal length
•Double click the TLC Visualizer in the “Instruments” window
•In the “Properties” sub-tab, under “Lens” choose the correct focal length
for the lens of this specific CAMAG TLC Visualizer
•Save the setting
If this setting was changed (by accident or the lens had to be changed), the
Diagnostics session needs to be re-done.
Electronic adjustment
To record images with the correct settings (white adjustment and position), the
Diagnostics session has to be performed.
•Double click on the instrument icon in the “Instruments” window
•Chose the subtab “Diagnostics”
•Press “Start” and follow the instructions
To display images with the correct colour, you will need a calibrated PC screen
To print images (on reports or exported) with the highest possible consistency
between screen and printed image, the printer has to be calibrated. Printed images
appear different as the printer parameters (resolution and colour depth) are
different to those of the PC screen.

Getting started
Instruction Manual, Oct-16 9
As colours are always seen subjectively, slight differences in perception of the plate
seen through the viewing flap, the recorded image on screen and the printed
image are possible.
3Getting started
3.1 The Instrument
Fig. 2: Front view 1: Control panel; 2: Sliding door; 3: Viewing flap; 4: Camera cover
A sensor system controls and monitors the proper handling and ensures a stable
illumination process. In case of failure a signal will sound and an error message will
be displayed. For error messages see the chapter “Error messages”.
3.2 Control panel
Fig.3: Layout control panel: 1: Timer LED; 2: Timer arrow key 3: Lamp keys with
lamp control LEDs

Getting started
Instruction Manual, Oct-16 10
3.3 Illumination
There are 5 different illumination sources available:
R 254 Remission at 254nm
R 366 Remission at 366/365nm
R White Remission at white light
T White Transmission at white light
RT White Remission and transmission at white light
3.4 Operation
•Switch on the instrument. The green LED (power on) indicates the
instrument is ready
•Make sure the L-shaped plate positioner is correctly set as described in
chapter 2.4
•Insert the plate with the application front first (to the rear of the
instrument, check chapter 2.6 Reference point)
•With the timer arrow keys select the lighting time you want
•Press the appropriate lamp key to select an illumination source. The
respective control LED of the selected illumination will turn on and the pre-
selected blue timer LED will flash
•To start the RT White mode hold down the R White key while pressing the
T White key or vice versa
•Lighting continues until the pre-set time has elapsed or the selected lamp
key is pressed again
•Changing the time resets the timer and the newly selected time starts
without switching off the illumination. Changing the type of lighting
immediately turns off the working tubes and turns on the newly selected
tubes
•The blue sliding gate must be closed in order to turn on UV light. If you
open the gate while a UV light is on, the illumination stops. In both cases
an optical and acoustic signal is issued.
•If you have to start UV illumination while the blue sliding gate is open, you
have to hold down the UV lamp key for about three seconds until the light
is turned on. The light stays on as long as you are holding the lamp key
down.
Wear eye and skin protection!

Service and maintenance
Instruction Manual, Oct-16 11
3.5 Viewing flap
When a light source, proper illumination or fluorescence must be controlled
visually prior to taking images, open the viewing flap
A filter is present to protect the user when the viewing flap is
open!
4Service and maintenance
4.1 User maintenance
•Clean the instrument inside and outside with a damp lint-free cloth on a
regular basis
•Remove the HPTLC plate right after ending the evaluation
4.2 Maintenance Data Sheet
CAMAG Maintenance data sheet
CAMAG TLC Visualizer 2
October 2016/UB
Purpose
The maintenance data sheet informs about maintenance interval of the
respective instrument as well as the proposal for IQ/OQ interval if
applicable. In addition, it identifies consumable parts with the respective
replacement cycle.
Maintenance interval
Maintenance
12 month
IQ/OQ
12 month
Consumable parts
Part No.
Description
Proposed replacement cycle
352.0010
UV tube short wave 254nm
24 month
352.0011
UV tube short wave 366nm
24 month
352.0015
White light tube
24 month
692.0021
Spare UV filter 254nm
Upon need
692.0022
Spare UV filter 366nm
Upon need
692.0023
Spare glass for white light
Upon need
692.0024
Spare opaque glass
Upon need
622.3014
Compensation spring (left/right)
Upon need

Service and maintenance
Instruction Manual, Oct-16 12
4.3 Trouble shooting
Replacing fluorescent tubes
White tubes in the base unit:
•Ascertain which tube has failed
•Switch off the instrument and remove the power cord!
•Remove the opaque glass plate from the CAMAG TLC Visualizer 2
•The defective tube can be taken out of the socket by turning (approx. 90
degrees)
•Proceed in the reverse order when fitting the replacement tube
•Reconnect the mains cable and check that all tubes work properly
Tubes in the side reflectors:
•Switch off the instrument and remove the power cord!
•Remove the lower screws and just loosen the upper screw at the front side
plate of the specific side reflector
•Swing the front side plate into the highest upper position
•Pull the filter support carefully out of the guide
•Loosen the defective tube (254nm, 366nm or White) by carefully twisting
it clear of its holder and take it out of the side reflector
•Proceed in the reverse order when fitting the replacement tube
•After replacing the tube insert the filter support back into its guide and
turn the front side plate back. Tighten it (slightly) with the two screws
•Reconnect the mains cable and check that all tubes work properly
Replacing the fuses
•Switch off the instrument and remove the power cord!
•Unlock the fuse holder over the mains socket with the help of a small
screwdriver
•Press it on both sides of the holder into the recess. Now pull out the fuse
holder
•Replace the fuse(s). The label 250 V 1.0 AT (slow blow) is valid over the full
voltage range
•Push the fuse box back in
•Reconnect the power cord

Service and maintenance
Instruction Manual, Oct-16 13
Camera access
In case access to the camera is required the top cover can be removed by pushing it
forcefully in an upwards direction until it detaches.
Error messages
Errors are displayed as follows:
In case of failure a signal will sound and an error message displayed. Initially chasing light
will be shown by the timer LEDs for three repetitions. Then the LEDs display a coded error
number. If there is a tube defect, the corresponding lamp control LED is on as well. If all
lamp control LEDs are on (ALon), the CAMAG TLC Visualizer 2 has a critical error and
CAMAG service must be called.
The coded error number displayed at the timer LEDs can be read as follows:
Timer LED: 2 5 10 20 60 ∞
Number if LED is on: 1 2 4 8 16 32
Example: 
LED is on
LED is off
The error number is calculated as: 1 + 2+ 32 = 35
Error number Description
15
Front sliding gate is open at start (is not displayed)
16
Lamp current is too high (ALon)
17
Lamp current is too low (ALon)
18
Lamp current can’t switch off (ALon).
19
High voltage power supply is too high (ALon)
20
High voltage power supply is too low (ALon)
21
High voltage can’t switch on (ALon)
22
High voltage can’t switch off (ALon)
32
UV 366nm tube in one of the side reflectors is defective
33
UV 254nm tube in one of the side reflectors is defective
34
White tube in one of the side reflectors is defective
35
White transilluminator tube is defective
36
One transilluminator and one of illumination white tubes are defective
37
One transilluminator or one of illumination white tube is defective
56
Front sliding gate was opened during UV illumination (is not displayed)
31/57
Internal device voltage 15V is too low
ALon means all lamp control LEDs are on

Technical data
Instruction Manual, Oct-16 14
5Technical data
Line voltage
100-240V (see rating plate on instrument)
Power capacity
50 W Illumination unit / 3.5 W Camera (USB 3)
Frequency
50 – 60 Hz
Lamps switching Frequency
65 kHz
Timer settings
2/5/10/20/60 minutes and endless
Dimensions
Width 50 cm
Depth 60 cm
Height 65 cm
Weight
17kg
6Appendix A: Illumination spectra
Spectral intensities of 254nm (narrowband) and 365 / 366nm (broadband) lamps are
shown in fig. 4.
Due to the broadband characteristics of the UV 366 tubes their intensities are similar at
both 365 and 366 nm and are equally qualified for both (365nm and 366nm)
specifications.
Fig. 4: Spectral intensities of lamp 254nm and 365 / 366nm
Visualizer illumination spectra
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
200 nm 300 nm 400 nm 500 nm 600 nm 700 nm
rel.int.
Pos. "254"
Pos. "366"

Appendix A: Illumination spectra
Instruction Manual, Oct-16 15
CAMAG (Switzerland) · Sonnenmattstrasse 11 · CH-4132 Muttenz 1
Telephone [phone] · Fax [phone] · E-Mail: [email protected]
CAMAG (Germany) · Bismarckstraße 27-29 · D-12169 Berlin
Telephone [phone] · Fax [phone] · E-Mail: [email protected]
CAMAG Scientific Inc. (USA) · 515 Cornelius Harnett Drive · Wilmington, NC 28401
Telephone [phone] · Fax [phone] · E-Mail: [e-mail]
www.camag.com