Chromatography Forum

I want to use GC-MS system which has been switched off for a long time. The system consists from autosampler (TriPlus RSH) connected to Trace GC 1310 and to TSQ MS. I think its is all controlled by Xcalibur. I have switched all parts, and when GC is turned on i can see the thermo logo appearing but afterwards the screen is black. Additionally in Xcalibur i get a next message, when i try to connect all instrument : Trace II device reported failure during "changeoperating mode" Command. I dont think its an issus of power as the logo appears after being switched on, what might be the problem?

I have worked as a service engineer for many years on Thermo single-quad GCMS systems (but have never been employed by Thermo themselves).

The Thermo logo appearing then the screen going black on any of the Trace 1310 GCs usually means that the small power supply inside the GC's "electronics box" has failed. **DISCLAIMER - There is also the chance the whole electronics module is bad, but this is much less likely**

If you have a service contract with Thermo or another service company, have them repair it unless you are very comfortable with removing the complete autosampler and opening the top & back of the GC.

ALSO, BEWARE...WHEN THE GC IS POWERED UP AND IN THAT BLACK-SCREEN STATE, THE GC'S PNEUMATICS ARE NOT BEING CONTROLLED AND YOU MAY BE PURGING GAS(ES) UNKNOWINGLY IF THE PNEUMATIC VALVES HAPPEN TO BE OPEN! (ASK ME HOW I KNOW.) Until you get the problem fixed, I would shut down the gases you have feeding the GC and, preferably, cap-off the MS transfer-line to avoid sucking air into the MS.

The Thermo part number for the power supply is on page 57 of the Thermo Trace 1300 Series spare parts guide. The guide can be found at the following link...

https://gcgcms.freshdesk.com/support/so ... arts-guide

GOOD LUCK!

Thank you so much, I think you are correct. When the cover is removed and the GC is switched on, not all the lights on the power supply module are illuminated. Specifically, D11, D12, and D13 light up, but D10 does not.

We will try to do it ourselves by taking pictures of all connections and then trying to reconnect back.