Cary60 - Struggling to retrieve good spectrums using 10ul ultra-microcell

Question

Hi, 
 I have recently purchased the 10ul ultra-microcell Part Number: 
 6610013800 for use with the Cary60. 
 
 I am struggling to get spectrums of any chemical using this. I have tried aligning to the best of my ability. The only spectrums I achieve are the highly unstable fluctuating spectrum at 10 Abosrbance or a complete flatline absorbance of 0. 
 
 Can anyone suggest what the problem could be?

Mike Picollelli · Answer

Hello: 
 
 Remove the cell and run the Instrument Performance tests in the Validate application of the software. 
 
 It's possible there are air bubbles in the cell. Reputedly wash wit isopropyl alcohol, followed by your solvent

If they pass, scan at 500 nm or Zero order. The light beam will be visible by placing a a small white piece of paper, (e.g., business card. verify that the beam of light is passing through the aperture of the cell. 
 
 Finally, zero the cell on your solvent and scan your sample. 
 
 Regards, 
 
 Mike