Before you do anything, go to
www.waters.com and download the 996 users manual. It's all there in a nice PDF file.
Next, a few questions:
1. What version of the software are you using? Regardless of the version, be sure that you have the PDA option. If you don't, contact your friendly neighborhood Waters sales or service rep and don't go any further because you can't get data from the thing without it.
2. Are the other components in the system already set up and connected to the workstation?
Assuming you're using a relatively recent version, it has the PDA option and the rest of your system is already operational, it's pretty simple.
1. Run the IEEE cable from your injector to the 996, connect your input and waste lines, plug it in, power up your system and computer, and get into Millennium.
2. Once in Millennium, go to "Configure System" to reach the "Configuration Manager". Double click on "Acquisition servers", then highlight the server that appears in the table and (right) click on "Properites". Go to the "Instruments" tab and check to see that your 996 is present. If not, try "Scanning instruments". It should show up. If it doesn't, you might have an IEEE address conflict with another instrument. Change the IEE address with the dip switches on the rear panel of the 996 and try again. Assuming the instrument is OK and your IEEE cable is OK, you should be fine. If not, then contact your friendly neighborhood Waters rep and ask them about card compatibility.
3. Go Back to the "Configuration Manager" and this time right click on "Systems", then "New", then "Chromatographic System" and drag and drop instruments as appropriate. Save the new system, and you should be able to proceed.
I think I got that right...others here will correct me if I'm too far off.
Good luck and let us know how things go...the 996 is a good workhorse detector. I've used mine for many years and am acquiring data with one as I write.
Best,
Chris