Chromatography Forum

Hi

We've recently reinstalled the software for a CP-3800 GC in the lab. The GC is working fine, however the attached autosampler unit (8200 model) is not injecting samples. The software (Star workstation) is detecting the autosampler without any problems, and when switched on the autosampler goes through its routine checks of the carousel, washes the syringe and detects vials loaded in the carousel.
When a sample (or sample list) is setup to run the carousel it is not moving and the syringe is not taking a sample to inject. No error message is appearing, the system is simply 'hanging'

Obviously having reinstalled the software on a new computer (the old one needed to be replaced after breaking down) we've potentially caused a problem during installation and setup, however the software works fine in all other regards (manual injections are not a problem) and the autosampler appears to be communicating with the software.

If anyone has any help with this problem or can possibly point us in the right direction it would be greatly appreciated.

thank-you

Denis Shiers

Data system - GC - Autosampler ready checks can have some quirks. The one I run into the most is with Agilent's GCs - the old 5890s expected the ready signal in the opposite manner from the 6890s onwards.

I am not familiar with the 3800, but there is often a 'normal' verse 'inverted setting'. (Its been a while, but I recall this had to do with an open switch verse a closed switch). The autosampler documentation would be the place to look for this kind of thing. The software may have a setting for this as well.

Thanks for the info.

The software has a control for inverting the signal setting however this did not help. Any other ideas?

thanks

If you get frustrated and cannot get the system working, consider looking at the Cobra GC Autosampler. If fits in any GC (5890-7890, Varian 3400 3800 etc) and can be moved o a different GC if you wish.

http://www.estanalytical.com/Products/P ... tosampler/

Hi, we also "enjoy" a 3800 GC. but our autosampler is a 8400. Anyway keep in mind that the order to plug the equipments is, first the autosampler followed by the 3800 and finally the PC.
Try to do that, perhaps it helps.
I assume that configuration in Starworkstation is properly done. Check it .
I'm at home now but tomorrow morning I will check and send you the configuration we have.

Regards