Glossary

Specify the range of pixels used per peak. When 2 or higher is selected, the signal is averaged. This helps increase the signal to noise ratio by reducing the contribution of the noise to the signal.

Two pixels is the optimum for most wavelengths. It is the best compromise between maximizing total signal and minimizing noise.

However, for some wavelengths, better results can be obtained with larger values (for very broad or odd shaped peaks) or lower values (to avoid interferences or background structures).

Relative standard error (RSE) compares actual response of a calibration level with a predicted response.

Used to specify the pass/fail criteria for calibration curves. If the value falls below the set limit, the analysis will fail.

Select this to use the blank solution as a zero concentration point in a calibration. Only use this if a blank is available.

Select to perform recalibrations throughout your analysis using all or a selected subset of standards. This is particularly useful when changes occur over time to the solutions used.

The addition of increments of a standard solution (spikes) to sample aliquots of the same size. Standards additions may counteract matrix effects but will not counteract spectral effects.

Set the flow rate of solution delivered to the nebulizer on the Conditions page in a worksheet. 15 rpm is a good starting point for most aqueous samples, while a slower speed around 5 rpm works best for organic samples.

Displays for how long each replicate will be read on the Conditions page in a worksheet. To change the read time, click it, or the down arrow, and choose a time from the displayed list. Longer times give a better % RSD between the replicates, but they will also add extra time to the overall analysis.

Defines the RF operating power for the plasma on the Conditions page in a worksheet. The power level is set in increments of 0.05 kW. The recommended setting for this option is 1.20 kW and maximum is 1.5 kW.

High plasma operating powers can result in torch meltdown. Always visibly monitor the torch and decrease the power if it starts to overheat.

Set the amount of time for the plasma to equilibrate for each solution on the Conditions page in a worksheet.

Select Axial, Radial or SVDV (Synchronous Vertical Dual View) on the Conditions page in a worksheet.

Axially-viewed systems offer lower detection limits, whereas radially-viewed systems are preferred for routine analysis of more complex sample matrices. For oils, metals and geological samples, the detection limit of a radially-viewed system is usually sufficient, and the application easier and more routine to run. SVDV measures both the axial and radial views of the plasma at the same time.

Select the viewing height for each element when using the Radial or SVDV viewing mode on the Conditions page in a worksheet. The viewing height relates to the position in the plasma that the detector is viewing.

Select the flow rate of the nebulizer for each element on the Conditions page in a worksheet. The default value for the flow rate is the recommended setting. Keep in mind that changing the sample matrix may change the nebulizer flow rate requirement.

Defines the plasma argon gas flow (in L/min) on the Conditions page in a worksheet. The plasma flow rate is set in increments of 0.5 L/min. The recommended setting for this option is 12.0 L/min. Use higher plasma flow rates if you are running organic samples, or using a high power setting.

A plasma gas flow rate that is too low may cause the torch to overheat and melt or the plasma to extinguish.

Defines the auxiliary gas flow (in L/min) on the Conditions page in a worksheet. Use higher auxiliary flow rates if you are running organic samples or samples with high dissolved solids.

Defines the make up gas flow (in L/min) to the nebulizer on the Conditions page in a worksheet. Use if you are running samples with high dissolved solids.

Enter the percentage of the Aux flow to replace with the optional 80% Argon / 10% Oxygen mix on the Conditions page in a worksheet. This field only appears when 'Oxygen injection' is enabled on the Configuration page and then selected in 'Common Conditions'.

Wavelengths shorter than 190 nm. Also described as 'deep UV'.

Select the number of spike levels used during the analysis.

The minimum acceptable percentage recovery that must be achieved for an analyte being assessed for the Accuracy test. Values lower than this will be flagged as a failure.

The maximum acceptable percentage recovery that must be achieved for an analyte being assessed for the Accuracy test. Values higher than this will be flagged as a failure.

The maximum %RSD value which is acceptable when comparing spiked solutions for Repeatability. Values higher than this will be flagged as a failure.

The maximum %RSD value which is acceptable when comparing spiked solutions for Ruggedness. Values higher than this will be flagged as a failure.

The maximum % difference which is acceptable when comparing a standard with a sample spiked at the same level. Values higher than this will be flagged as a failure.

Maximum daily dose default value. This value appears on the Sequence page and should be changed on the Sequence page to be specific for each sample analyzed.

Tests that results reflect the actual values by determining the average percentage recovery achieved for samples spiked at multiple levels, and ensuring that this value falls within the specified limits.

Tests the degree of repeatability of the sample preparation and measurement procedure by determining the spike recovery %RSD across multiple samples. The %RSD must be less than the specified value to pass.

Tests repeatability, taking into account intra-laboratory variation by determining the spike recovery %RSD across multiple samples from two separately-run worksheets. This includes the currently open worksheet and an previously run, imported worksheet. The %RSD must be less than the specified value to pass.

Compares the concentrations measured in a standard to the concentrations measured in samples spiked to varying levels relative to that standard. The limit defines the allowable percentage difference between the spiked sample and the standard solution.