SOR-100 Solvent Racks Operating Instructions
SOR-100 Solvent Racks Operating Instructions
SOR-100 Solvent Racks Operating Instructions
Operating Instructions
Revision: 1.0
Date: April 2004
© 2004 Dionex
Doc.: Solvent_Rack_OI_E_V1.doc
SOR-100 Operating Instructions
Declaration of Conformity
Product: Solvent Racks
Type: SOR-100, SOR-100A-2,
SOR-100A-4, SOR-100A-6
Dionex GmbH herewith declares conformity of the above products with the respective
requirements of the following regulations:
The electrical safety of the products was evaluated based on the following standard:
• EN 61010-1: 1993
Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control and
laboratory use
Part 1: General Requirements
The Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) of the products was evaluated based on the
following standards:
• EN 50081-1: 1992:
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) - Generic emissions standard
Part 1: Residential, commercial and light industry
• EN 50082-1: 1992:
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) - Generic immunity standard
Part 1: Residential, commercial and light industry
• EN 61000-3-2: 1998
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)
Part 3 / Section 2: Limits for harmonic current emissions
Table of Contents
1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 How to Use This Manual ........................................................................................... 1
1.2 Unpacking .................................................................................................................. 2
1.3 Intended Use............................................................................................................... 2
1.4 Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Note .................................................. 3
2 Overview............................................................................................................................. 5
2.1 Unit Description ......................................................................................................... 5
2.2 Supported Configurations .......................................................................................... 5
2.3 Front Panel Display and Controls .............................................................................. 6
2.4 System Wellness ........................................................................................................ 6
2.5 Safety Precautions ...................................................................................................... 7
3 Installation.......................................................................................................................... 9
3.1 Location...................................................................................................................... 9
3.2 Electrical Connections ............................................................................................. 10
3.3 Rear Panel Connectors ............................................................................................. 10
3.3.1 Interfaces for Device Control............................................................................... 11
3.3.2 DC Input (Power) ................................................................................................. 11
3.3.3 15-Pin D-Sub Port ................................................................................................ 11
3.4 Fluid Connections .................................................................................................... 12
3.4.1 Connecting the Solvent Reservoirs to the Degasser ............................................ 12
3.4.2 Connecting the Degasser to the Pump.................................................................. 14
4 Operation.......................................................................................................................... 15
4.1 Stand-alone Operation.............................................................................................. 15
4.2 Operation with a Dionex P680 HPLC Pump ........................................................... 15
4.2.1 Operating the Degasser with the Pump's Firmware ............................................. 16
4.2.2 Operation with Chromeleon ................................................................................. 16
4.3 Operation after a Power Failure ............................................................................... 16
5 Troubleshooting............................................................................................................... 17
5.1 List of The Most Frequently Observed Error Messages .......................................... 17
5.2 Chromeleon Error Messages .................................................................................... 17
5.3 List of the Most Frequently Observed Problems ..................................................... 18
6 Maintenance ..................................................................................................................... 19
6.1 General Notes........................................................................................................... 19
6.2 Maintenance Intervals .............................................................................................. 20
6.3 Leak Sensor .............................................................................................................. 21
6.4 Shutting Down the Instrument ................................................................................. 22
7 Technical Information..................................................................................................... 23
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
8 Accessories........................................................................................................................ 25
10 Index ............................................................................................................................ 29
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
1 Introduction
1.1 How to Use This Manual
The layout of this manual is designed to provide quick reference to the sections of interest to
the user. However, in order to obtain a full understanding of the SOR-100 Solvent Racks, we
recommend that you review the manual thoroughly before beginning operation.
We assume that the person using this manual is sufficiently trained in the use of analytical
instrumentation and is aware of the potential hazards when using chemical solvents.
Almost all descriptions in the manual apply to all SOR-100 Solvent Racks. Therefore, the term
"the Solvent Rack" or "the rack" is used throughout the manual. If some detail applies to only one
rack type, the type is identified by name.
Please note: The device configuration may vary; therefore, not all descriptions
necessarily apply to your particular instrument.
At various points throughout the manual, messages of particular importance are indicated by
certain symbols:
Please note: Indicates general information intended to optimize the performance of the
instrument.
Important: Indicates that failure to take note of the accompanying information may
result in damage to the instrument.
Warning: Indicates that failure to take note of the accompanying information may
result in personal injury.
This manual is provided "as is." Every effort has been made to supply complete and accurate
information and all technical specifications have been developed with the utmost care. However,
Dionex assumes no responsibility and cannot be held liable for any errors, omissions, damage, or
loss that might result from any use of this manual or the information contained therein. We
appreciate your help in eliminating any errors that may appear in this document.
Chromeleon® and Summit® HPLC System are registered trademarks of Dionex Corp. All other
trade or company names mentioned are subject to the copyright and the property and trademark
rights of the respective companies.
All rights reserved, including those for photomechanical reproduction and storage on electronic
media. No part of this publication may be copied or distributed, transmitted, transcribed, stored in
a retrieval system, or transmitted into any human or computer language, in any form or by any
means, electronic, mechanical, magnetic, manual, or otherwise, or disclosed to third parties
without the express written permission of Dionex Corp.
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
1.2 Unpacking
All electrical and mechanical components of the Solvent Rack are carefully tested before the
instrument is shipped from the factory. After unpacking, please inspect the rack for any signs
of mechanical damage that may have occurred during transit.
Please note: Immediately report any shipping damage to both, the incoming carrier and
Dionex. Shipping insurance will compensate for the damage only if
reported immediately.
Please note: Keep the original shipping container and the packing material. They will
provide excellent protection for the instrument in case of future transit.
Shipping the unit in any other packaging automatically voids the product
warranty.
Important: To prevent the rack from falling, lift the unit itself from the sides. Do
not lift the unit by the packaging material or the front panel.
• Remove the foam inserts, and then remove the polythene packaging.
• Check off the contents of the accessory pack against the list (→ page 25).
Caution: When lifting or moving the Solvent Rack, lift only from the bottom or
sides of the unit. Lifting the Solvent Rack by the front panel may damage
the hinges.
Please note that the Solvent Racks may be operated only using the accessories shipped with the
unit (→ page 25) and within their technical specifications (→ page 23).
If there is any question regarding appropriate usage, contact Dionex before proceeding.
Dionex is not liable for any damage, material or otherwise, resulting from inappropriate or
improper use of the instrument.
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
4
SOR-100 Operating Instructions
2 Overview
2.1 Unit Description
The Solvent Racks are high-quality instruments designed for HPLC analysis as part of a
Dionex Summit HPLC System. They are primarily designed for use with the Dionex P680
HPLC pumps. The racks provide a secure location for installation of the solvent reservoirs
and, when mounted on top of the HPLC system, save valuable bench space. They are
available in various configurations (→ Supported Configurations) and can thus be used in
numerous laboratory environments.
All Solvent Racks include a reservoir tray, solvent reservoirs, and appropriate tubing. The
SOR-100, the only rack that does not contain a vacuum degasser, is intended for use as a solvent
organizer. In the other racks, an integrated analytical vacuum degasser (2-channel, 4-channel, or
6-channel) continuously degasses solvents via special polymer membranes that are permeable to
gas, but not to liquids. Degassing solvents guarantees reproducibility and reduces pulsation in the
connected pump.
All parts in the flow path are made of Teflon® AF, PEEK, or Tefzel® to provide optimum
resistance to the most commonly used solvents and buffer solutions.
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
1 2 3
If an error is found, an error message is displayed on the front panel of the connected P680 pump.
If the pump is controlled by Chromeleon, the error is logged in the Chromeleon Audit Trail.
Feature Description
Leak detection Reliable operation
(Status LED on the rack's front panel.)
Degasser vacuum level monitoring Reliable operation
(Vacuum and Status LEDs on the rack's front panel.)
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
Warning: Keep in mind that the fluid components of the system may be filled with
toxic solvents. Before starting maintenance, rinse toxic solvents from the
instrument. Avoid inhaling any vapors. Always wear gloves and goggles.
Important: When lifting or moving the Solvent Rack, lift only from the bottom or
sides of the unit. The front panel of the rack tilts upward. Lifting the rack
by the front panel may damage the hinges.
Important: When operating the HPLC system,set the low presure limit for the pump.
This prevents damage resulting from leakage or from running the pump
dry.
Please note: Before interrupting operation for an extended period (i.e, several days),
observe the precautions in Shutting Down the Instrument (→ page 22).
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
3 Installation
3.1 Location
After unpacking the Solvent Rack, allow the rack to warm up for approximately 4 hours
before connecting it to the power supply. This delay allows any condensation that might have
occurred during shipping to evaporate. After 4 hours, check the Solvent Rack; if condensation
is still there, allow the instrument to continue to warm up until the condensation is completely
gone.
Install the instrument in the laboratory on a stable surface that is free of vibrations. Make sure that
the surface is resistant to solvents. Avoid locations with extreme changes in temperature (such as
direct sunlight or drafts) and high air humidity. Allow sufficient clearance behind the rack for
electrical connections and ventilation.
If the rack is part of a Summit HPLC system, we recommend that you stack the individual
modules as shown below. This arrangement optimizes the flow path and ensures a low dead
volume.
P680 Pump
ASI-100 Autosampler
PDA-100 Detector*
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
Please note: If the Solvent Rack contains an integrated degasser, drainage tubing can
be connected at the bottom right to direct liquid leaks to the waste
(→ Fig. 2). To prevent damage to the rack, make sure that no part of the
tubing is placed higher than the connection port.
The external power supply unit is a primary clocked standard power unit providing a "wide
range" input (auto-sensing). Thus, no adjustment is required to adapt the line voltage to the local
voltage requirements.
For more information about how to connect the Solvent Rack, refer to Operation (→ page 15).
1 2 3
Fig. 3: Solvent Rack rear panel
No. Description
1 Exhaust air outlet
Optional: Connect tubing here to vent vapors leaving the degassing chambers to waste
(→Fig. 4, page 11).
2 DC Input (Power): If the Solvent Rack is not controlled by a P680 pump, connect an external power
supply unit (part no. 1510.0004) from here to the mains (→ section 3.3.2, page 11).
3 15-pin D-Sub port
Connects the Solvent Rack to the pump (→ section 3.3.3, page 11).
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
Fig. 4: Connect tubing here to vent any vapors leaving the degassing chambers to waste
Important: To ensure trouble-free operation, only use the cables provided in the
accessories kit.
To connect the Solvent Rack directly to the mains, connect the external power supply unit
(part no. 1510.0004). The external power unit is an optional part.
9 to 18 Volt DC
Fig. 5: DC Input
Please note: The external power unit is required only if you do not want the P680 pump
to control the Solvent Rack. Please note: It is only possible for a P680
pump to control the Solvent Rack if a Solvent Rack port is provided on the
pump's rear panel.
Connect the Solvent Rack to the pump, using the appropriate cable from the accessories kit.
For more information about how to connect the rack to the pump, refer to Operation, page 15.
For information about the pinout for this 15-pin D-Sub connector, refer to the Technical
Appendix (→ page 27).
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
Important: When lifting or moving the Solvent Rack, lift only from the bottom or
sides of the unit. The front panel tilts upward. Lifting the unit by the front
panel may damage the hinges.
Please note: Do not connect a Solvent Rack with analytical degasser to a semi-
preparative P680P HPG-2 pump.
All Solvent Racks are shipped with solvent reservoirs and appropriate tubing. The bottle caps
have file holes. Four of the holes are capped (white caps) and one is open. The solvent line is
installed in the open hole. A retaining guide holds the tubing in place.
How to connect the solvent lines to the solvent reservoir (→ Fig. 6):
• First, feed the solvent line through the retaining guide and then into the open hole in the
reservoir cap.
• Slide the filter frit (from the accessories kit of your P680 pump) onto the end of the line.
• Fill the solvent reservoir and then, place the complete assembly in the reservoir.
• Tighten the reservoir cap hand-tight, by holding the cap and turning the bottle.
Retaining guide
Filter frit
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
Important: Always install filter frits on the solvent lines. This prevents contaminants
from reaching the HPLC system.
Please note: When replacing a solvent line, remove the frit frist, then the solvent line
and then, the retaining guide.
Please note: Regularly check the suction frits for permeability. Especially when
working with aqueous solvents, algae and other microorganisms can grow
and be deposited on the filter frits. Therefore, replace the solvents at
regular intervals. Rinse the reservoirs thoroughly before refilling them.
Replace the suction frits as necessary.
• Connect the lines to the appropriate connection ports on the degassing module. Route the
solvent lines through the associated openings in the rack's cover. Remove the dummy fitting
from the degasser inlet and connect the solvent lines with the corresponding label (→ Fig. 7).
Please note: Before connecting the solvent lines, make sure that the connectors are free
of contaminants. Even minute particles can allow air to enter the degasser,
and thus reduce the unit's effectiveness.
Please note: When replacing solvents, make sure that the solvents are miscible. Mix
immiscible solvents with an intermediate solvent to replace them step-by-
step.
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
In the P680A ISO, P680A HPG-2, P680A HPG-4, and P680A DGP-6 pumps, the appropriate
solvent lines are connected at the factory and routed through an opening in the pump's top
cover (→ Fig. 8).
Remove the corresponding dummy fitting from the degaser outlet (→ Fig. 7) and connect the
solvent line with the corresponding label.
Please note: • On a P680A ISO or P680A HPG-2 pump, connect the solvent lines
directly to the working pump head.
• On a P680A DPG-6 pump, connect the solvent lines to the 3-channel
proportioning valve.
• On a P680A HPG-4 pump, connect the solvent lines to the 2/3-way
valves of the solvent selector.
For more information about tubing connections to these pumps, refer to
the Operating Instructions for the P680 HPLC Pumps.
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
4 Operation
4.1 Stand-alone Operation
Make sure that the installation site meets the facility requirements (→ page 9). Connect the
Solvent Rack to the mains, using the optional external power supply unit (part no.
1510.0004). Connect the external power supply to the DC Input port on the rack's rear panel
(→ Fig. 3, page 10) and to the power source. The degasser reaches the appropriate operating
vacuum after a short time. When the Vacuum and Status LEDs are green, the degasser is
ready for operation.
Please note: If you plan to have a P680 pump control the Solvent Rack degassser,
verify that the Degaser option on the pump's Hardware menu (a submenu
of the Configuration menu) is set to External (→ Operating Instructions
for the P680 HPLC Pumps). If the setting is not External, contact Dionex
Service before proceeding.
Make sure that the installation site meets the facility requirements (→ page 9) and then, follow
the steps below to connect the Solvent Rack to a Dionex P680 pump:
Please note: Turning off the pump, automatically turns off the degasser, too.
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
If the pump is operated in stand-alone mode, follow the steps below to turn the degasser on or
off:
• On the pump's Main menu, select the Configuration menu. Use the cursor keys to select to
select the Options menu and confirm you’re your selection by pressing the ↵ (Enter) key.
• Set the Degasser option to Yes. If the setting is No, the degasser is turned off.
If the pump is controlled by Chromeleon, follow the steps below to turn the degasser on and
off:
For information about the commands and properties available for the P680 pumps, refer to the
Operating Instructions for the P680 Pumps or to the Chromeleon online Help.
However, if the HPLC system is controlled by Chromeleon, the program file (PGM File) can
include a command that automatically restarts operation as desired after a power failure. For
more details, refer to the Chromeleon online Help.
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
5 Troubleshooting
5.1 List of the Most Frequently Observed Error Messages
The following table contains a summary of the most frequently observed error messages, lists
possible causes, and suggests appropriate remedial actions.
Note: If the Solvent Rack is controlled by a P680 pump, any error messages
related to the rack will appear on the front panel display of the pump. To
clear an error message, press Esc. If several error messages appear, press
Esc repeatedly to clear them one by one.
Please note: For information about the error messages that might appear during
operation of your pump, refer to the Operating Instructions for the P680
HPLC Pumps. If a message that is not listed in the manual appears, please
note the exact wording of the message and contact Dionex Service.
For a list of all Chromeleon error messages, refer to the Chromeleon installation program
(= Server Configuration). Double-click the pump in the left window section and select the
Error Levels tab page in the dialog box. You can also open the dialog box by clicking the pump
on the left pane and then selecting the Properties on either the Edit menu or context menu.
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
6 Maintenance
6.1 General Notes
The Dionex Solvent Racks are made of high-quality components and materials to minimize
maintenance requirements. The painted surfaces are relatively resistant to weak acids, alkali,
and organic solvents. Nevertheless, immediately wipe up all liquids spilled onto the rack
surface, using a lint-free cloth or paper. If surfaces are exposed for longer periods, these
liquids can cause damage!
The following sections describe all maintenance procedures that can be carried out by the user.
Dionex personnel should perform any additional servicing, as well as annual inspections to detect
contamination, excessive wear, etc. If unexpected problems occur, please contact Dionex
Service.
Warning: Keep in mind that the fluid components of the system may be filled with
toxic solvents. Before starting maintenance, rinse toxic solvents from the
instrument and put on protective clothing.
Important: Before you return any instrument to Dionex for repair, contact Dionex
Service or your local distributor. An RMA (Return Material
Authorization) number is required for the return in order to properly track
and account for your instrument. Always use the original packaging when
shipping the Solvent Rack. Shipping the rack in anything other than the
original packaging will void the warranty. Refer to the warranty statement
in the terms of sale for more information.
Important: Use original Dionex spare parts only. Dionex assumes no liability for
damage caused by repairs with third-party parts!
For instructions on shutting down the unit, refer to page 22.
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
In addition, have a Dionex Service Representative check the instrument once a year for
contamination, excessive wear, etc.
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
Please note: Check the Solvent Rack for leaks at regular intervals and tighten leaking
all tubing and capillary connections.
Leak sensor
Fig. 9: Leak Sensor
When the leak sensor detects a leak, the red Status LED on the front panel lights and the error
message "Solvent Rack leak detected" is displayed on the front panel of the pump.
• Inspect the degasser inlets and outlets and the connected solvent lines for leaks. Tighten
leaking connections.
• Put on appropriate protective clothing and dispose of any liquid in the tray. Using a lint-free
cloth or paper, dry the sensor as shown in Fig. 10.
Please note: The red Status LED on the front panel will remain illuminated as long as
the leak sensor is exposed to moisture.
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
Please note: Thoroughly rinse the degasser with alcohol after operation. (The alcohol
does not need to be removed afterward.)
Please note: For longer periods of inactivity and when using saliferous buffers (which
may result in salt crystallization in the gas separation membrane, thereby
impairing the degassing performance), rinse with de-ionized water,
followed by either methanol or 2-propanol.
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
7 Technical Information
Solvent bottle capacity: Up to six 1-liter solvent bottles or
up to three 2-liter solvent bottles
Degassing channels: None, 2, 4, or 6 analytical degassing channels, depending on the
model
Degasser membranes: Teflon AF
Channel volume: 670 µl
Max. flow rate per channel: 12 ml/min
Optimized flow rate per channel:* 3.6 ml/min
Pressure drop: 4.5 mmHg/ml/min
Control: Permanent status transfer
Controlled by a Dionex P680 HPLC pump
(with or without Chromeleon) or stand-alone operation
Communication: 15-pin D-Sub connector (through P680 HPLC pump)
PC connection: USB or Ethernet (RJ-45; 10 MBit)
Power supply: 15-pin D-Sub connector (through a P680 HPLC pump) or external
power supply unit (option)
Additional USB ports: Integrated USB hub with three type A USB ports for connection of
other Summit HPLC modules
Safety features: Leak detection, degasser vacuum level monitoring
User input/display: 3 LEDs (Power, Vacuum, and Status)
Wetted parts: Stainless steel, PCTFE, PTFE, PEEK
Environmental conditions: Range of use: Indoor use
Temperature: 10°C to 35°C (50°F to 95°F)
Air humidity: 40 to 85% rel. humidity, non-condensing
Overvoltage Category: II
Polution degree: 2
Power requirements: Max. 30 VA
Dimensions 10 x 40 x 31 cm (9.3 x 15.8 x 15.0 in.)
(h x w x d):
Weight: 2.8 kg (6.2 lb)
* Optimized flow range for isocratic or gradient mixture consisting of methanol and water (50:50)
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
8 Accessories
Accessories for the SOR-100 Solvent Racks are always maintained at the latest technical
standard. Therefore, part numbers are subject to alteration. However, updated parts will
always be compatible with the parts they replace.
An external power supply unit (part no. 1510.0004) is available as an option for the following
Solvent Racks: SOR-100A-2, SOR-100A-4, and SOR-100A-6.
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
3 Jumper to pin 9
5 Occupied
9 Jumper to pin 3
13 Occupied
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
10 Index
A O
Accessories .........................................................26 Operating Instructions...........................................1
Operation ............................................................15
C after Power-Failure ........................................16
Control Elements..............................................6
Chromeleon
Display .............................................................6
Error Messages...............................................17
Safety Measures ...............................................7
Operation........................................................16
Stand-alone ....................................................15
Connections
Via P680 Pump ..............................................15
Device Control ...............................................11
With Chromeleon...........................................16
Electrical Connection .....................................10
With Pump Firmware.....................................16
Fluid ...............................................................12
Rear Panel ......................................................10
P
Connections (Rear Panel) ...................................11
15-pin D-Sub..................................................11 Pinouts ................................................................28
DC Input.........................................................11 Power ..................................................................11
Power .............................................................11 Power-Failure .....................................................16
Control Elements ..................................................6 Problems .............................................................18
D R
DC Input .............................................................11 Rear Panel (Connections) .............................10, 11
Degasser Channels (Rinse) .................................20 15-pin D-Sub..................................................11
Display ..................................................................6 DC Input.........................................................11
Power .............................................................11
E Rinsing Degasser Channels ................................20
Electrical Connection..........................................10
S
Error Messages ...................................................17
Safety Precautions.................................................7
F Scope of Supply....................................................2
Shut Down ..........................................................22
Fluid Connections ...............................................12
Solvent Rack
Degasser .........................................................12
15-pin D-Sub..................................................11
Pump ..............................................................14
Configurations..................................................5
Solvent Supply .........................................12, 14
Solvent Supply..............................................12, 14
I Spare Parts ..........................................................26
Specification .......................................................24
Installation Stand-alone Operation ........................................15
Connections (Rear Panel)...............................10 System Wellness ...................................................6
Electrical Connection .....................................10
Fluid Connections ..........................................12 T
Location ...........................................................9
Troubleshooting..................................................17
Intended Use .........................................................2
Chromeleon Error Messages ..........................17
L Error Messages...............................................17
Most Frequently Problems .............................18
Leak Sensor.........................................................21
U
M
Unit Description....................................................5
Maintenance Unpacking.............................................................2
General Notes.................................................19 User Information...................................................3
Leak Sensor....................................................21
Maintenance Intervals ....................................20 W
Rinsing Degasser Channels............................20
Wellness................................................................6
Shut Down......................................................22
Maintenance Intervals .........................................20
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SOR-100 Operating Instructions
30