User guide

DuoSpray™ Ion Source User Reference
AB SCIEX TripleTOF
®
5600/5600+ Instruments
94 of 116
System User Guide
D5033331 A
Adjust the Corona Discharge Needle
When using the APCI probe, make sure that the corona discharge needle is pointing toward the
orifice.
1. Use the slotted screwdriver to rotate the plastic screw on the top of the needle.
2. Look through the glass window to make sure that the needle is aligned with the tip
facing the orifice.
Adjust the APCI Probe Position
Make sure that the curtain plate orifice remains clear of solvent or solvent drops at all times.
The position of the probe relative to the curtain plate orifice affects sensitivity and signal stability.
For lower flow rates, position the probe closer to the orifice. For higher flow rates, position the
probe farther away from the orifice.
1. Set the Y-axis adjustment knob to 10.
2. Monitor the signal in the Analyst TF software.
3. Use the Y-axis adjustment knob to adjust the probe in small increments until you
achieve the best signal or signal-to-noise ratio.
The APCI probe optimizes toward the orifice plate.
After the probe is optimized, it needs only minor adjustment. If you remove the
probe, or if the analyte, flow rate, or solvent composition changes, repeat the
optimizing procedure after reinstallation.
Optimize the IonSpray Voltage Floating
• In positive mode, start at a value of 5500, and decrease in steps of 500 V; in
negative mode, start at a value of –4500, and increase in steps of 500 V; continue
adjusting until you achieve the best signal or signal-to-noise ratio.
This parameter usually optimizes around 5500 V in positive mode. If you observe no
changes in signal with increasing ISVF, then leave the ISVF at the lowest setting that
provides the best signal or signal-to-noise ratio.
WARNING! Electrical Shock Hazard: Follow this procedure to avoid contact with
the high voltages applied to the corona discharge needle and the curtain plate.
Note: The position of the TurboIonSpray probe may influence performance
of the APCI probe. You may need to adjust the TurboIonSpray probe
position to achieve optimal performance.
Note: If the ISVF is too high, a corona discharge can occur. It is visible as
a blue glow at the tip of the TurboIonSpray probe. This will result in
decreased sensitivity and stability of the ion signal.