Chromatography Forum

I came across an old Hp 5988A for a couple hundred bucks. I was going to use the mechanical vacuum pumps and scrap the rest, but it turns out that the system is pretty complete and looks like it might even be operational. I can't find any manuals online. The system is an antique, but very well made, and I wonder if anyone who used these years ago would share an opinion on whether these are worth restoring?

I was never lucky enough to use one of those, but I do believe that Scientific Instrument Service still carries some parts for them.

The hardest thing you will have bringing it back to life will probably be the data system. If someone makes modern software that will run it, I say go for it.

Check to see if Agilent's newer versions of ChemStation/OpenLab can communicate with it. Also check to see if Empower and/or Chromeleon can as well.

Most of the GCs I've seen have been around awhile and software seems to be the limiting factor for keeping them around.

Quick and simple answer - no, they are not worth restoring. In their time they were awesome, but that was in their time. Any mediocre 5972 will run circles around a 5988, and it takes a small nuke to power the things. Strip it for pumps and parts and call it a day.

I have five of these that I provide service for. The vacuum system is the best. The parts are out there. As James said, the data system could be a problem. CSS in Kansas has software to make it run under Windows XP or 7, but it can be pricey. If you're doing CI, it's worth it.

It's the vacuum system that attracted me. So much better than a 5972. Seems like there is nothing inherently worse than the 5972 if you can get it to work with a more modern Chemstation. Does anyone have any manuals for this system they would part with? I've called Agilent, but they haven't been helpful so far.