User manual

Section 7- Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting FAQs
Q: Why do I have negative absorbance values?
A: A blank measurement was made either using a solution with more absorbance than the sample of interest or on
a dirty pedestal. Clean the pedestal and make a new blank measurement with a fresh aliquot of the appropriate
buffer.
Q: Is simply wiping the pedestal surface enough to prevent carryover?
A: The highly polished quartz and stainless steel surfaces of the sample retention system are resistant to sample
adherence, making the use of dry laboratory wipes very effective in removing the sample. When using the
cuvette option, it is best to follow the cleaning recommendations of the cuvette manufacturer.
Q: How do I keep my sample from flattening out on the measurement pedestal?
A: Many protein reagents and buffers contain surfactants that may interfere with the hydrophobic nature of the
measurement pedestals, causing your samples to "flatten out." Use the NanoDrop PR-1 reconditioning
compound as a rapid means of reconditioning the pedestals when the surface properties have been
compromised and liquid columns break during measurement. PR-1 kits are available through Thermo Fisher
Scientific or your local distributor.
Q: Can I make measurements on the pedestal if I leave a cuvette in the NanoDrop 2000c cuvette holder?
A: It is highly recommended that cuvettes be removed from the instrument prior to making a pedestal measurement
to ensure the pedestal arm moves to the proper starting position.
Q: Is there a specific direction that the cuvette must be facing?
A: Yes. The arrow etched into the assembly indicates the direction of the light path. Ensure the clear sides of the
cuvette correspond to the direction of the arrow.
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