Running the Instrument Performance Test

This test completes an analytical performance suite of tests including Resolution, Sensitivity (SRBR - Signal to Root Background Ratio), and Precision by running the multi-element standard and blank, then running the standard as a sample. The tests are run from the 'Tests' tab in the 'Instrument' window.

The data obtained from the tests is used to calculate SRBR and also measures short term precision and calibration accuracy.

If 'Advanced Valve System test' and 'Use autosampler' are selected on the Tests tab, the Instrument Performance test is not available. To run both tests, deselect 'Use autosampler' and introduce the required solutions manually.

Before Starting the Instrument Performance Test

• Make sure the torch, nebulizer, spray chamber, and pump tubing are clean, in good working condition, and installed on ICP-OES
• The external instrument exhaust and instrument are turned on
• The ICP Expert software is open
• Wavelength calibration solution must be available
• A blank solution should be prepared from pure distilled, de-ionized water with 1% analytical reagent grade nitric acid (HNO₃)
• A rinse solution should be prepared from pure distilled, de-ionized, acidified water or use the blank solution
• Polychromator heater (turned on automatically) and boost gas purge should be turned on for at least 2 hours before running all tests
• Plasma should be on for at least 10 minutes before testing
• The Peltier cooling (turned on automatically) should be on for at least 5 minutes before testing
• The instrument calibration (wavelength calibration) and the detector calibration (dark current scan) must be performed.

Running the Instrument Performance Test

1. Click Instrument on the ICP Expert toolbar.
2. Click the Tests tab.
3. Deselect all tests except Instrument Performance.

   If you choose to use the autosampler instead of introducing samples manually, select Use Autosampler and then place the wavelength calibration, rinse, and blank solutions in the appropriate locations in the autosampler. Check the Autosampler tab on the worksheet page for solution locations.

4. Click Run Tests.
5. The method parameters are automatically filled in when the test begins.
6. Follow the on-screen prompts to introduce solutions if you are manually introducing the solutions.

To print the report, click the print button in the top left corner of the print preview display.

See also:

• Poor or high relative standard deviation
• Low analytical signal
• Maintenance