CAMAG ATS 4 User manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
AUTOMATIC TLC SAMPLER 4

Introduction
Instruction manual ATS4, Mar-16 1
Content
1Introduction.................................................................................................................................... 3
1.1 CAMAG automatic TLC sampler 4 (ATS4).................................................................................. 3
1.2 Precautions ............................................................................................................................... 3
1.3 Parts supplied with the instrument ............................................................................................ 5
1.4 Spare parts/consumables........................................................................................................... 6
2Unpacking/Installation .................................................................................................................. 7
2.1 Unpack the instrument ............................................................................................................. 7
Remove turret transport lock............................................................................................................. 7
Remove the table transport lock........................................................................................................ 7
2.2 Installation environment............................................................................................................ 8
2.3 Installation ................................................................................................................................ 9
Rinsing bottles .................................................................................................................................. 9
Gas/air connection .......................................................................................................................... 10
Dosage syringe and needle ............................................................................................................. 10
Mains connection ........................................................................................................................... 11
Connection to the PC and installation............................................................................................. 12
The user dialog ............................................................................................................................... 12
Set baud rate .................................................................................................................................. 12
Set display language ....................................................................................................................... 13
Set LCD contrast ............................................................................................................................. 13
3Getting started ............................................................................................................................. 14
3.1 Starting the system ................................................................................................................. 14
3.2 Check syringe and needle type................................................................................................ 14
3.3 Loading the waste plate.......................................................................................................... 14
3.4 Loading a TLC-plate/foil .......................................................................................................... 15
4Manual operation ........................................................................................................................ 17
4.1 Display and function keys........................................................................................................ 17
Control lamps ................................................................................................................................. 17
Operating keys................................................................................................................................ 17
4.2 Standalone operation.............................................................................................................. 17
4.3 Aborting an application in progress......................................................................................... 18
4.4 Rinsing the syringe and spray nozzle ....................................................................................... 18

Introduction
Instruction manual ATS4, Mar-16 2
4.5 Reset the pre-dosage position ................................................................................................. 18
4.6 Clean the rinsing unit.............................................................................................................. 18
4.7 Manual control of the rinsing unit........................................................................................... 19
4.8 Entering the syringe and needle type ...................................................................................... 19
4.9 Stopping or resetting the instrument ...................................................................................... 19
4.10 Mounting the baffle bridge with septum foil........................................................................... 19
5Maintenance and troubleshooting............................................................................................. 21
5.1 Handling of the HAMILTON syringe......................................................................................... 21
5.2 Adjusting the spray gas pressure ............................................................................................. 21
5.3 Cleaning the spray nozzle ....................................................................................................... 21
5.4 Septum puncher ..................................................................................................................... 22
5.5 Replacing the septum puncher................................................................................................ 22
5.6 Replacing fuses ....................................................................................................................... 23
5.7 Troubleshooting...................................................................................................................... 23
5.8 Service maintenance ............................................................................................................... 25
5.9 Error messages and possible causes ........................................................................................ 25
6Technical data............................................................................................................................... 27
7Maintenance data sheet.............................................................................................................. 28
Declaration of Conformity (DoC)

Introduction
Instruction manual ATS4, Mar-16 3
1Introduction
1.1 CAMAG automatic TLC sampler 4 (ATS4)
The CAMAG Automatic TLC Sampler 4 is a fully automatic sample application device for
use in qualitative, quantitative and preparative Thin-layer chromatography. The system
consists of the instrument with interface, computer and software from which the
instrument is programmed.
The parameters for up to 6 application programs can be saved for stand-alone operation
without PC- control.
The ATS4 is controlled by CAMAG software that manages, monitors and reports all
parameters and steps of the TLC analysis including definition of plate material, sample
application, derivatization, development and evaluation. All data is handled in a GMP/GLP-
compliant manner.
1.2 Precautions
•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 publications shown on the Declaration of Conformity (DoC). The
instrument complies with safety class 1 and has been designed for indoor use only
(IP 20). Further, this device has passed the CAMAG Quality Assurance tests and has
been delivered in safe operation 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. if
applicable) when working with the instrument
•For the sample rack 022.7430 only standard 2 mL 12x32 mm with snap-cap, i.e.
crimp closure or compatible are to be used. The penetration depth of the needle is
fixed. Vials with the wrong depth may cause damage to the needle

Introduction
Instruction manual ATS4, Mar-16 4
•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
•The exhaust of the internal vacuum pump is located at the rear of the instrument. It
can be connected to a fume hood
•When working with the fluids of the instrument, be sure to take the appropriate
caution (protect your eyes from direct contact with liquid)
•In order to avoid damage to the bottle and syringe connections these have to be
tightened by hand only
•Avoid overflow of the waste bottle. The vacuum pump is damaged and liquid can
spill
•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 in the temperature range outlined
in the chapter "Technical Data". 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
•If liquids penetrate the inside of the instrument, the power has to be disconnected
immediately. Small amounts of liquid can be wiped off and/or dried by means of a
hairdryer, with larger amounts of liquid a service technician has to be called. A test
of functionality has to be performed in all cases

Introduction
Instruction manual ATS4, Mar-16 5
•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
•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 and with sufficient
manpower (install the transport security devices if applicable, transport it only in the
original packaging)
•The safety of any system incorporate 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
1.3 Parts supplied with the instrument
Part no Description
022.7430
Sample rack for 66sample vials 2 mL 12x32 mm
115.7405
Rinsing bottle 250 ml (mounted)
115.7420-1
Waste bottle 250 ml (mounted)
140.7400-1
Accessory set ATS4 containing:
715.2254
TLC-sheet down-holder
715.2328
10x10 plate levelling guide
140.0450-1
Pneumatics connecting kit
125.1021
RS232 connecting cable
140.7401
Tool kit
362.0008
Fuses 2AT – 2 pc.
740.1014
Test foil, tightness
720.3079
Spare Septum puncher
695.0053
25 µL Dosing syringe without needle
695.0046
Syringe needle for spray-on application
695.0047
Syringe needle for contact application
B.022.7400E
Instruction Manual
315.0016
Power cord EURO-plug or
315.0017
Power cord USA-plug or
315.0031
Power cord GB-plug

Introduction
Instruction manual ATS4, Mar-16 6
1.4 Spare parts/consumables
Part no Description
022.7450
Dosing syringe starter kit for ATS4 consisting of:
695.0053
25 µL Dosing syringe without needle
695.0046
Syringe needle for spray-on application
695.0047
Syringe needle for contact application
115.7402
Heated spray nozzle, pre-assembled
695.0043
100 µL Dosing syringe without needle
695.0053
25 µL Dosing syringe without needle
695.0042
10 µL Dosing syringe without needle
695.0046
Syringe needle for spray-on application (blue)
695.0047
Syringe needle for contact application (red)
695.0065
Replacement seal for syringe needle 695.0046/47, Pkg. of 5
695.0061
Replacement piston for 10µL syringe
695.0062
Replacement piston for 25µL syringe
695.0063
Replacement piston for 100µL syringe
115.7405
Rinsing bottle 250 ml
115.7420-1
Waste bottle 250 ml
960.0064
Bottle without closure
720.3079
Septum punch
022.7430
Sample rack for 66 sample vials 2 mL, 12x32 mm
022.7464
Sample vials 2 mL, 12x32 mm with snap-caps, Pkg. of 1000
022.7435
Support for 96-well-plate, 15mm depth
022.7436
Support for 96-well-plate, 45mm depth
022.7460
Baffle bridge with septum foil support (incl. in 022.7435 and
022.7436)
022.7462
Septum foil, Pkg. of 10 (incl. in 022.7435 and 022.7436)
115.7452
Instrument Cover

Unpacking/Installation
Instruction manual ATS4, Mar-16 7
2Unpacking/Installation
2.1 Unpack the instrument
Observe the environmental requirements (below) when setting up the instrument.
Carefully take all components listed in the shipping list as well as accessories out of the
packing. Make sure the shipment is complete.
Before taking the instrument out of the container the upper foam packing must be
removed. Then take out the instrument cover. To remove the instrument from the lower
foam packing grip the bottom of the instrument through the opening on the side of the
lower foam packing and lift the instrument up carefully.
•Never try to pull or lift the instrument by means of the transparent cover. The cover
is not connected with the instrument and will break.
•Do not switch on power before all transport locks have been completely removed.
Turret, bottles and plate support are secured for shipment. Carefully remove all transport
locks completely.
Remove turret transport lock
Remove the cardboard underneath the spray nozzle
Unscrew the turret holder on the backside of the turret Fig 1.1
Remove the spacer
Remove the u-shaped transport lock Fig 1.2
Fig. 1.1: Turret transport lock Fig. 1.2 remove the u-shaped transport lock
Remove the table transport lock
To unlock the plate support: loosen the knurled screw and pull the plate support forward,
then completely remove the clamp.

Unpacking/Installation
Instruction manual ATS4, Mar-16 8
Fig. 2: Table transport lock
Do not dispose the transport lock – keep them at an appropriate place for
further use.
2.2 Installation environment
The place for installation should meet the following requirements:
Bench space Width 630mm (add space for cables approx. 100mm)
Depth 530mm
Height 500mm
Add adequate space for a PC next to the instrument.
Weight 36kg
The operation temperature should be within a range of 18 to 35 degrees centigrade and
free from significant variations.
Humidity and temperature conditions must not cause condensation.
Adequate ventilation free from acidic, alkaline or other gas that may corrode metal or
painted surfaces must be secured.
Other requirements:
•Do not place the instrument in a location where the temperature undergoes
significant changes (e.g. under an air conditioning duct or by a window).
Significant changes in temperature will affect the performance of the unit.
•Do not place the instrument in direct sunlight. Direct sunlight may create significant
temperature changes which will affect the performance of the system. Direct
sunlight may discolor the instrument paint surfaces.
•Do not use the instrument in an environment with moving ambient air (draft).
•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.

Unpacking/Installation
Instruction manual ATS4, Mar-16 9
•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 respective
power line.
Confirm that the following requirements exist before installing the instrument:
Power supply and ground
Line voltage: 85 – 250VAC (see rating plate on instrument).
Frequency: 47 – 63 Hz
Power capacity: 60 VA
A grounded outlet should be within 2 meters of the instrument.
N2 or compressed air ¼” connection
Required pressure 4.5 - 6 bar (65-87 psi)
Gas consumption 0.2 - 0.3 L/min (spotwise)
0.8 - 2.0 L/min (bandwise)
2.3 Installation
Rinsing bottles
The rear of the instrument features a compartment for the rinsing bottle and the waste
bottle. Screw the proper lid to the corresponding bottle and place the bottle into the
compartment’s designated recess.
The waste bottle (three tubes) goes into the left position and the rinsing bottle (two tubes)
into the right position.
Fill the rinsing bottle with an appropriate solvent.

Unpacking/Installation
Instruction manual ATS4, Mar-16 10
Fig. 3: 1 = waste bottle and 2 = rinsing bottle
Gas/air connection
Connect the supplied pressure tubing to the quick connection pressure inlet on the
backside of the instrument. Connect the other end of the tubing to the gas supply.
If the outlet of your gas supply does not fit, the N2/compressed air connection kit allows
connection to standard ¼” tubing.
Adjust the primary pressure between 4.5 and 6.0 bar (65-87 psi). If the instrument is
started with low pressure the message: „Please connect to gas“ will be displayed.
If long thin tubing is used it is recommended to increase the primary
pressure to 6-8 bar (87-115 psi).
The right air connection is the outlet of the vacuum pump and does not need to be
connected.
Dosage syringe and needle
Determine the proper syringe/needle for the specified method and place them into the
designated holder of the application turret.
Please note that there are different needles for spray-on and contact application (red =
contact, blue = spray).
•Loosen both knurled screws at the bottom of the syringe holder 4 (syringe body)
and unscrew the upper holder (1) (syringe plunger).
•Insert the head of the syringe plunger into the upper holder (2) and fix it in position
by tightening the knurled screw (1) half way down.
•Lower the syringe without needle carefully into the holder until it rests correctly in
position (Hold the syringe down whilst tightening the screws (4) that they fit into
the syringe head groove.

Unpacking/Installation
Instruction manual ATS4, Mar-16 11
•Turn the syringe into a position where the side connector (3) faces the front of the
instrument. Fix the position of the syringe with the two knurled screws (4) (tighten
equally).
•DO NOT use force when tightening the knurled screws.
•Attach the short tubing onto the side connector (3) of the syringe and the other
end of the tubing onto the connector (5) of the turret.
•Insert the needle into the Teflon guide of the nozzle. Attach it to the syringe.
Make sure that the white Teflon seal at the top of the needle is
correctly in place.
After mounting the syringe the syringe volume and the needle type must be entered into
the instrument.
Procedure:
Press the DIALOG-key on the instrument and choose with the keys and the volume
of the mounted syringe as well as the type of the needle (spray-on or contact application).
Confirm choice by pressing the ENTER-key on the instrument.
If the wrong syringe volume is entered the application volumes will be
wrong too.
Fig.4: Installation of the syringe – 1= upper knurled screw, 2 = holder (plunger), 3 = side connector, 4 =
syringe holder, 5 = tube connection on turret
Mains connection
Ensure that the voltage shown on the rating plate (left side) matches that of the mains.
Use the supplied power cord for connection. Switch the instrument on (2).

Unpacking/Installation
Instruction manual ATS4, Mar-16 12
Fig. 5: Connections – 1=RS232 Interface, 2=Power switch, 3=Mains connection with fuse box
Connection to the PC and installation
The CAMAG automatic TLC sampler 4 is shipped with a 9-pin interface cable for
connection to the PC. Connect the cable to the instrument and to a free COM-port of the
PC to enable data transfer. Install the instrument according the software installation
information.
The user dialog
By means of the User dialog you can select the communication Baud rate between the
instrument and the PC, the LCD language and contrast.
To enter the user dialog:
•Hold down the DIALOG key and press the RESET key.
•Release the RESET key
•Wait 2 s and then release the DIALOG key.
The display will now show ATS4 V 1.00.xx Setup Mode.
•Press the ENTER key to start the user dialog (with the baud rate setting).
Set baud rate
Start the user dialog according to the procedure above. The display now shows the
current baud rate (default is 19'200).
•Press the or key to change the setting.
•Press the ENTER key to accept the current setting (and move on to the language
selection).
•Press the RESET key to quit the user dialog.

Unpacking/Installation
Instruction manual ATS4, Mar-16 13
Set display language
Start the user dialog according to the procedure above. The display now shows the
current baud rate.
•Press the ENTER key to move on to the language selection display.
The current language setting is displayed.
•Press the or key to change the setting.
•Press the ENTER key to accept the current setting (and move on to the LCD contrast
selection).
•Press the RESET key to quit the user dialog.
Set LCD contrast
Start the user dialog according to the procedure above. The display now shows the
current baud rate.
•Press the ENTER key twice to move on to the LCD contrast selection display.
The current contrast setting is displayed.
•Press the or key to change the setting.
•Press the ENTER key to accept the current setting.
•Press the RESET key to restart the instrument.

Getting started
Instruction manual ATS4, Mar-16 14
3Getting started
3.1 Starting the system
Switch on the instrument. The ATS4 will now perform the following checks and tasks:
1. Checking memory for data loss. Parameters (methods) are stored in memory for more
than 7 days.
2. Initializing the syringe drive.
3. Checking gas pressure. In case of low or no pressure an acoustic signal is given and the
message “Please connect to gas” is displayed.
4. Initializing the septum punch.
5. Initializing all other drives.
6. Finally the application head is moving to the waste position. If start-up was successful
the display will show:
** ATS4 **
Instrument ready
In this phase only physical blocking of a drive can cause an error. If necessary, check if all
transport locks have been removed and whether there are unknown objects in the
instrument (for instance below the sample rack).
3.2 Check syringe and needle type
Check if the syringe size and needle type is appropriate for your analysis method.
If not, change the syringe and/or needle and adjust the instrument according chapter 2.3
point “Dosage syringe and needle”.
3.3 Loading the waste plate
Prior to application of a sample the application head moves to a position on the waste
plate in order to pre-dose by contact or spray-on application. These pre-dosage positions
are 2 mm apart from each other. The waste plate area X: 11 to 189 mm and Y: 11 to 89
mm is used which results in 3600 pre-dosing positions on each 20x10 plate. Each time
prior to an application the system checks how many positions are still available. If
necessary a warning is displayed. When you tell the software that a new waste plate was
loaded the waste position is reset.
Positioning of the waste plate is achieved by pressing down the left stage. A 20x10 cm
plate should always be used.

Getting started
Instruction manual ATS4, Mar-16 15
3.4 Loading a TLC-plate/foil
•Move the plate lift lever (1) situated on the right side of the plate stage to the rear
in order to lower the right part of the stage.
•Flip the front ledge (2) of the stage down (forward) making the plate stage freely
accessible.
•Place the plate (3) into the upper left corner of the stage so that it touches the rear
stage ledge and the positioning pin (4) in the middle of the stage.
•Flip up the front stage ledge (2) and move the plate lift lever (1) back to the front.
Guide the lever with your hand to avoid that the stage moves up too quickly.
Fig.6: Plate stage – 1=plate stage lever, 2=front ledge of plate stage, 3=TLC-plate, 4=pin, 5=waste plate,
6=Front ledge at waste plate
•Use another 10x10 cm plate or the plate levelling guide if a 10x10cm plate is to be
employed.
Fig.7: Plate stage setting for 10 x 10 cm plates – 1=TLC-plate 10x10 cm, 2 =10x10 plate levelling guide

Getting started
Instruction manual ATS4, Mar-16 16
For TLC foils which might not lay flat on the stage at the positioning pins a down-holder is
designed. It is to be used according to below figure and may be left in place if only foils
are being used.
The positioning of foils is similar to that of TLC-plates. Note also that the foil must be
placed underneath the down-holder and firmly onto the positioning pin.
Fig.8: Foil down-holder- 1=foil, 2=foil down-holder before installation
Ensure that the plate or foil is resting against the positioning pin when
fastened.

Manual operation
Instruction manual ATS4, Mar-16 17
4Manual operation
4.1 Display and function keys
Control lamps
The control lamps in the display indicate the following status:
•POWER ON: this lamp is lit when the instrument is switched on.
•ON LINE: this lamp is lit when the instrument is ON-LINE to the PC or is
communicating with the PC.
Operating keys
Dialog
Activates the syringe and needle selection dialog.
ARROW KEYS, = upwards and = downwards
Select the parameters in the dialog.
ENTER
Confirms the current parameter and switches to the next display.
END
Interrupts the current application.
Starts the manual operations dialog to rinse the syringe, reset the waste position or clean
the rinsing container and spray nozzle.
RESET
Resets and re-initializes the instrument. The current application is interrupted but the
parameters remain in RAM.
RUN
Starts the program, i.e. repeats the last used method.
4.2 Standalone operation
The instrument can be used in standalone mode (offline modus, the instrument is not
connected to the PC). Up to six methods can be saved locally and used after an offline
start.
To save a method in the instrument follow the procedure outlined in the ATS4 section
your TLC software.
Standalone application start
Prepare the instrument as usual for sample application (solvent, waste bottle, TLC-plate,
etc.)

Manual operation
Instruction manual ATS4, Mar-16 18
•Press the RUN key
•The most recently used method is displayed. With the and keys you can select
another locally saved method.
•Press the ENTER or RUN key to start the application.
If no method is locally saved the message “MEMORY EMPTY” is displayed for 2 second.
Then the instrument goes to ready position.
4.3 Aborting an application in progress
•Press the END key
The application in progress is aborted. An aborted application cannot be completed later.
4.4 Rinsing the syringe and spray nozzle
Syringe and spray nozzle can only be rinsed if no application is in progress and a syringe is
installed.
•Press the END key
•Use the and keys to select the function „RINSE SYRINGE“
•Accept the selection with ENTER.
The syringe is now filled with rinsing solvent. 25% of this solvent is dosed into the spray
nozzle and allowed to pour down into the waste container. Then the spray nozzle is
blown clean with N2. This procedure is repeated 3 times.
4.5 Reset the pre-dosage position
The pre-dosage position can only be reset if no application is in progress.
•Press the END key
•Use the and keys to select the function „NEW WASTE PLATE“
•Accept the selection with ENTER.
The pre-dosage position is now reset to the first position on a new 20x10cm TLC plate.
Always use a 20x10cm TLC plate as waste plate.
4.6 Clean the rinsing unit
The rinsing unit can only be cleaned if no application is in progress and a syringe is
installed.
•Press the END key
•Use the and keys to select the function „CLEAN RINSE UNIT“
•Accept the selection with ENTER.
This way the rinse unit will be emptied through the syringe and then refilled with fresh
rinsing liquid.

Manual operation
Instruction manual ATS4, Mar-16 19
4.7 Manual control of the rinsing unit
Manual control of the rinsing unit can only be performed if no application is in progress
and rinsing and waste bottles are correctly installed.
•Press the key
The inlet valve, drain valve and the pump are activated as long as the key is pressed.
•Press the key
The drain valve of the rinsing unit is open as long as the key is pressed.
4.8 Entering the syringe and needle type
Press the DIALOG key
•Use the and keys to select the volume of the installed syringe and the type of
the needle.
•Accept your selection with ENTER
4.9 Stopping or resetting the instrument
•Press the RESET key
This will abort all activities in progress and re-initialize the instrument.
4.10Mounting the baffle bridge with septum foil
The instrument is usually equipped with a baffle bridge without septum foil support.
Optionally available is the baffle bridge with septum foil support (CAMAG part number
022.7460). This bridge is recommended when using micro titer plates or vials not
equipped with septa.
How to mount the baffle bridge with septum foil:
•Turn off the instrument.
•Remove the syringe and carefully push the tower to the right-most position.
•Remove the attachment screws (5) at both ends of the baffle bridge and remove
the old bridge.