Autosamplers maintenance

In the open-access LC/MS procedure described by Pullen et al. " the samples are directly introduced from solution for ease of automation and sample preparation. Chemists prepare samples in solvent to a suggested concentration range, then log the samples into the system. The sample log-in is done at any time during the continuous automated queue. Autosampler vials are used to hold the samples, and autosamplers are used to directly deliver samples in solution to the mass spectrometer. The system uses a standard method to analyze the samples in queue, average spectra according to a preset scheme, and print out a spectrum for the chemist. Fail-safe procedures for untrained users and instrument self-maintenance at start-up and shutdown were also developed. 

The single modules (pump, autosampler, detector) often contain diagnostic functions to give information about their history and current status, such as volume of mobile phase delivered since the last maintenance check, lamp energy, air in syringe, etc. 

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