Agilent SPS 3 Autosampler Initialization Sequence and Troubleshooting

This Information Applies To: Agilent Spectroscopy Systems, SPS 3 Autosampler

Issue: When the SPS 3 autosampler powers up it performs an initialization sequence that moves the probe arm to predefined positions on the X, Z and theta axes (Figure 1). If the probe arm fails to travel the required distance along any of the axes, the probe will stop moving and LEDs will light to indicate an error. The autosampler cannot be used in this state.

Discussion: 

During the initialization, the probe moves to all the physical limits of the working area of the autosampler (Figure 2) and then returns to the home position. This initialization sequence automatically begins each time the autosampler is switched on. 

Tip: The initialization sequence can run when the main instrument (AA or ICP-OES) is disconnected from the autosampler or is turned off.

Figure 1: Autosampler. 1 Front, 2 Back, 3 Right, 4 Left, 5 Power LED, 6 X-axis, 7 Y-axis, 8 Z-axis, 9 Theta-axis (rotation)

1. The initialization sequence (Figure 2) is as follows:

   • Probe raises to the extremes of the Z-axis,

   • Probe travels to the extremes of the X-axis,

   • Probe travels to the extremes of the theta-axis,

   • Probe positions itself above the fixed wash reservoir location (final location)

Figure 2: Video showing initialization sequence

Steps to Follow:

If the autosampler fails to initialize:

1. Turn off the power and move the probe by hand on along each axis and check if there are any physical mechanical obstructions. Correct as required. 

2. If no physical or mechanical obstructions can be identified, turn the unit back on and allow it to attempt the reset procedure again.

3. If still failing, the Error LEDs on the autosampler connection panel on the back of the instrument will display a code. There are four LED lights:

   

4. The LED pattern, where 1 is on and 0 is off, corresponds to an error code and description (Table 1). Note the error code and contact your Agilent Service Representative.

   LED 1	LED 2	LED 3	LED 4	Error code	Error description
   0	0	0	1	1	Main printed circuit board (PCB)
   0	0	1	0	2	Program memory checksum
   0	0	1	1	3	Configuration memory checksum
   0	1	0	0	4	RAM test
   0	1	0	0	5	Axis initialization
   0	1	1	0	6	X-axis collision
   0	1	1	1	7	Theta-axis collision
   1	0	0	0	8	Z-axis collision
   1	0	1	1	11	X-axis movement
   1	1	0	0	12	Theta-axis movement
   1	1	0	1	13	Z-axis movement

Table 1: Error codes and description

Tip: If the probe doesn't move at all, and there are no error LEDs on, check the Power LED on the autosampler. If it is off, check if power is being supplied to the autosampler. If it is, there may be another fault that will have to be rectified before the error codes can be utilized.

Learn how to effectively troubleshoot your Agilent Spectroscopy System:  Guidelines for Troubleshooting and Maintenance of AA Systems