How to Troubleshoot the Color spectrophotometer?

In a basic biology lab class, a spectrophotometer appears pretty robust and easy to use. That’s still the case for the most part, despite the increasing sophistication of the instruments—some covering wavelengths from the near-infrared (NIR) through ultraviolet (UV). To get the most accurate results. In this article, we will explore ways to avoid problems altogether—and get high-accuracy results—when using a spectrophotometer. Despite the breadth in spectrophotometers, many best-use practices apply across all of them.
The correct choice of spectrophotometer depends on the wavelengths of interest and the amount of accuracy needed. Lower-end instruments are robust and user-friendly but usually only allow for readings at one wavelength at a time. A simple manual adjustment is required for measurement at various wavelengths. These units are easily moved and used in various locations. A computer-controlled higher-end instrument gives the ability to scan over a range of wavelengths.

Like all instruments, spectrophotometers work best when properly maintained and used as directed. Then, be methodical, work consistently and take the time needed to properly prepare and place a sample. Make sure that the spectrophotometer’s lamp is up to temperature, and the device is in proper working order. By the following form, you will get the best guide.

ProblemPossibleSolution
Instrument InoperativePower cord not connected to outletPlug instrument in.
Instrument InoperativeDead Power outletChange to a different outlet
Instrument InoperativeInternal fuse blown or defective electronic componentCall an authorized service engineer.
Instrument InoperativeImproper power settingSet to the main power
Instrument cannot set 100%T (0.000A)Light beam blockedCheck sample holder. See if holder is properly positioned and nothing is blocking light path.
Instrument cannot set 100%T (0.000A)Lamp is misaligned.Check to see if light is positioned properly on entrance slit to color spectrophotometry.
Instrument cannot set 100%T (0.000A)Defective electronic component.Call an authorized service engineer.
Incorrect Transmittance to Absorbance correlationBubbles or particles in solution.Check sample preparation and analytical procedure.
Instrument cannot set 100%T (0.000A)Defective electronic component.Call an authorized service engineer.
LCD Digital Display does not change regardless of sample concentrationConcentration reading “frozen”.Sample Solution too Dark , dilute it and Restart measurement procedure.
LCD Digital Display does not change regardless of sample concentrationWrong wavelength setting.Check sample procedure and wavelength setting.
LCD Digital Display does not change regardless of sample concentrationInsufficient sample volume.Fill cuvette with more sample.
LCD Digital Display does not change regardless of sample concentrationStray sample preparation vapors.Prepare the sample away from the instrument. Use proper ventilation.
LCD Digital Display does not change regardless of sample concentrationBubbles or particles in solution.Check sample preparation and analytical procedure.
LCD Digital Display does not change regardless of sample concentrationDefective electronic component or loose wiring.Call an authorized service engineer.
Instrument drift and noiseLamp not adjusted properly.(misalignment)Check lamp has been properly installed or has moved during transit.
Instrument drift and noiseLamp old or defective.Replace with a new lamp.
Instrument drift and noiseDefective or dirty detector or defective electronic component.Call an authorized service engineer.
Incorrect readings obtainedInsufficient sample volumeFill cuvette with more sample.
Incorrect readings obtainedStray sample preparation vapors.Prepare sample away from instrument. Use proper ventilation.
Incorrect readings obtainedBubbles or particles in solution.Check sample preparation and analytical procedure.
Incorrect readings obtainedInstrument out of electronic calibration.Call an authorized service engineer.
High precision portable spectrophotometer colorimeter

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