SOLA Software Help

Introduction -- The SOLA (Solids and Liquids Analysis) software system provides a powerful and flexible user interface. The SOLA software provides a powerful yet easy to use graphical user interface.

Customizing SOLA-- Many features of SOLA may be customized by editing the system configuration facility. Some of the features that can be modified include background and window colors, data storage formats, spectrum smoothing and recovery options.

Principles of Operation -- SOLA is an event driven system, where you select the required operations through a three dimensional graphical user interface. A series of multitasking processes allow several tasks to be performed concurrently. The user interacts with a process by placing it in a window at the top of the window stack.

Processes -- A process is an integral part of the software system, responsible for a group of related functions. The File Manager, Instrument Monitor, Instrument Control, and Assignment Editor, are all concurrent processes running within SOLA. A process may exist in either an Icon or a Window and can be active in either state.

Facilities -- A facility is an independent part of the software system that provides additional functionality. System Configuration and the Analysis Toolkit are both facilities of SOLA.
A facility is represented by an Icon and is accessed by clicking on the icon with the mouse. Accessing a facility will terminate any Sample Assignments .

Icons -- When a Process or Facility is not in a Window it is represented pictorially by an icon at the right of the screen. Clicking on an icon either places a process in a window or allows access to a facility.

Windows -- A window provides a display area that allows you to interact with either a Process or Facility. Windows may be covered by other windows and some windows may have smaller windows inside them. To move a window to the top of the window stack, click anywhere inside that particular window. A window may be closed, and it's Process returned to an Icon, by clicking on the CloseBox situated at the top left corner of the window. Note that a process can still be active when not in a window, or while hidden by other windows. Only it's display is affected.

Help for SOLA -- Online help is provided by the Help System. Help text can be accessed by means of the index, through hypertext, or using context sensitive selection. The Help System may be disabled in the System Configuration facility.

SOLA File System -- All file operations are performed by the File Manager process. The File Manager is context sensitive, removing the need for you to have a detailed understanding and recall of the various file types and associations. The format for data files may be defined in the System Configuration facility.

Returning to DOS -- To terminate SOLA and return to DOS, click on the DOS Icon. Note that the instrument state will not be affected but all Sample Assignments will be terminated.

Introduction -- The FM SOLA is a quadrupole based mass spectrometer, specifically designed to meet the demand for an integrated elemental analysis system. The modular design of the SOLA permits both ICP (Inductively Coupled Plasma) and GD (Glow Discharge) Ion Sources to be fitted. This enables both liquids and solids to be analysed conveniently.

Configuring the SOLA -- The hardware configuration of the SOLA must be specified in the System Configuration facility in order for SOLA to function correctly. Some of the items that can be defined include the Sample Introduction System, Ion Source and Detector System.

Principles of Operation -- The ion population, generated from either Ion Source, is focussed and then sampled by a 16-mm quadrupole Mass Analyser. Ions are then counted by the Detector System and the resulting mass spectrum processed by the Control System. All instrument hardware, including the Vacuum System, is controlled and monitored by the onboard PLC (Programmable Logic Controller).

Vacuum System -- With the ICP Ion Source, vacuum is maintained by differentially pumping up to four sections of the instrument. The first stage is rotary pumped while the second and third stages are serviced by turbomolecular pumps. If a multiplier detector is present, then an additional turbomolecular pump is fitted to create a fourth stage. The first and second stages are
monitored by Pirani gauges while the third stage is monitored by a Penning gauge. With the GD Ion Source, the first and second stages are combined into a single stage which includes the discharge cell itself. The vacuum system is controlled and monitored by the onboard PLC (Programmable Logic Controller).

Ion Sources -- The ICP source is predominantly used for the analysis of liquids, with sample solutions introduced into the plasma region as a very fine spray. The high plasma temperature completely dissociates most molecular species into their atomic components. The atoms are immediately ionized and extracted through a series of sampling cones before entering the Mass Analyser. The GD source is used to directly measure the elemental composition of solid samples, removing the necessity for prior dissolution by acid digestion. Samples, prepared in the form of pins or discs, function as the cathode of a low pressure argon electrical discharge cell. Material is sputtered off the cathode as essentially neutral atoms which diffuse toward the anode of the cell. There, they are ionized in the argon plasma and extracted through the exit slit into the Mass Analyser. The source configuration may be defined in the System Configuration facility.

Mass Analyzer -- The ion population, produced from the plasma source, passes through a set of ion transfer optics leading to a 16-mm quadrupole mass analyser and onto the Detector System. The transfer optics may be tuned either manually or by the computer. Scanning of the quadrupole is controlled through the Instrument Control process.

Detector System -- The SOLA can be configured with either a single Faraday detector or with a dual detector system, consisting of a Faraday and a secondary electron multiplier. The Faraday detector is extremely robust and is suitable for measuring large ion beam currents of 1.0E⁶ cps or greater. It is also independant of mass bias effects and therefore ideal for isotope ratio measurements.

For smaller ion beam currents the electron multiplier may be used. This detector is extremely sensitive, capable of measuring signals as low as a few counts per second. It should not be operated above 1.0E⁶ cps. The detector configuration is defined in the System Configuration facility.

Control System -- Control, monitoring, and sequencing of instrument hardware is performed by the onboard PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) which communicates directly with both the Instrument Monitor and Instrument Control processes in SOLA. Data acquisition is achieved by using a DAC (Digital to Analogue Converter) to control scanning of the quadrupole and an MCS (Multi-Channel Scaler) card to record the ion counts. Both cards are accommodated in the computer. The acquired counts from the MCS card are then processed and quantified by software routines within SOLA.

Monitoring the SOLA -- Continuous background monitoring of instrument hardware is performed by the PLC, which then communicates any required information to the Instrument Monitor process in SOLA. When in a Window the Instrument Monitor provides a visual display of instrument component states. The display can also be used to track operation sequences.

Hardware Faults -- Hardware and sequence faults are detected and handled by the PLC, which then communicates the error to the Instrument Monitor process. When a fault occurs, the Instrument Monitor will display the system error and position itself at the top of the window stack.

Controlling the SOLA -- Hardware control is performed by the PLC but the Instrument Control process may be used to originate instructions. When in a Window the Instrument Control process allows you to control the instrument interactively. Options exist to set or change the instrument state, manually control the sample introduction system, and perform manual survey scans.

Instrument Startup -- Before acquiring data the instrument must be set to the active state. You may perform this operation through the Mode panel in the Instrument Control window. Note that before execution of a Sample Assignment the instrument is always set automatically to the active state.

Sample Introduction -- If an AutoSampler or Peristaltic Pump are present you may perform control operations on these through the Sample Control panel in the Instrument Control window. Note that before execution of each Sample Assignment the AutoSampler and Peristaltic Pump are automatically set to their correct states.

Scan Parameters -- Before a scan, or series of scans, is executed, a set of scan parameters must be defined. For a manual survey scan these are defined through the Scan Control panel in the Instrument Control window. For a Sample Assignment they are defined in the Scan Parameters module. Each scan is made up of a number of passes, each of which is made up of a number of mass ranges. A mass range is made up of a continuous series of channels evenly distributed over the mass range. The channel density distribution is defined by the number of channels per AMU. Each channel records the ion signal at a designated mass for a period of time referred to as the dwelltime.

Executing a Scan -- After defining the necessary scan parameters, a manual survey scan may be executed through the Scan Control panel in the Instrument Control window. For most scans the acquired data is displayed in real-time and you may interact with any part of the screen interface. However, extremely fast scans may temporarily prevent input.

Examining Spectra -- Acquired data can be examined in the chart display area of the Instrument Control window. The Chart Control panel may be used to modify the display aspects of the chart. Previously acquired spectra may be viewed by using the File Manager to open a scan file stored on disk.

Instrument Shutdown -- You may perform this operation through the Mode panel in the Instrument Control window. The instrument may be either set to off or to a standby state. Note that after execution of a Sample Assignment the instrument remains in the active state. However, if required, the Instrument State module may be utilised to perform automatic shutdown.

Calibrating the SOLA -- To achieve optimum performance several instrument characteristics, defined in the System Configuration facility, need to be periodically updated. These include response factors, noise levels, and detector efficiencies. Mass and Sensitivity Calibrations should also be regularly performed to ensure quantitative accuracy.

Mass Calibration -- A mass calibration is performed in order to calibrate the output of a 16 bit DAC to the 255 amu range of the quadrupole mass analyser. The Mass Calibration module can be used to perform an automatic calibration, although the calibration must already be within 0.5 amu for this to execute successfully. The mass calibration may be approximated to within 0.5 amu by either editing the appropriate parameters in the System Configuration facility, or by directly editing the \SYSTEM\CALIB.DAT file.

Sensitivity Calibration -- A sensitivity calibration is performed in order to calibrate the measured ion signals, expressed in counts per second, against elements of known concentration. The Sensitivity Calibration module can be used to perform an automatic calibration, with the calculated factors then stored in an associated Element sensitivity is often affected by the particular sample matrix that the element exists in. It may therefore be desirable to create a library of element databases, each one associated with a particular sample matrix. Seperate element databases will also be required for different Ion Sources since each ion source produces different elemental Sensitivity Factors.

Introduction -- The SOLA software system provides fully automatic analysis capability for the SOLA. Samples may be run separately or in multiple batches. Once raw sample data is acquired it is immediately stored to disk. This allows various quantification methods to be applied to the same data set, either at the time of analysis or at a later date.

Customizing the Analyses :

Many features of sample analysis may be customized by editing the {System,2,0,0} {Configuration,2,0,0} facility. Some of the features that can be modified include methods for baseline measurements, peak centering and peak intensity calculations. Parameters for AutoDetect mode may also be defined.

Principles of Operation -- Assignment Execution is performed by one of the multitasking processes existing within the SOLA software system. This allows you to interact with other software processes during an analysis. A list of Sample Assignments is executed sequentially. An assignment consists of a sample identifier paired with an Analysis Procedure. Each procedure is made up of a series of basic.

Modules -- In SOLA, a sample analysis is broken down into a series of fundamental tasks which are represented by a collection of basic units called modules. These are created, modified and stored using the Create Screen in the Assignment Editor. Data Modules contain essential data and parameters required to perform either an online or Offline Analysis.  Acquisition Modules acquire or retrieve data during either an online or offline analysis. Option Modules perform optional tasks or functions which may be included in an Analysis Procedure. Quantification Modules quantify acquired data during either an online or offline Analysis.

Analysis Procedures -- Once a series of Modules has been created they may be grouped together to form analysis procedures. These are created, modified and stored using the Build Screen in the Assignment Editor. A procedure simply consists of an ordered list of modules. When the procedure is run, each module is called and executed in turn.

Sample Assignments -- Once an Analysis Procedure has been created it may be paired with a sample identifier to make a sample assignment. These are created and stored using the Assign Screen in the Assignment Editor. Multiple assignments may be created to form a sample assignment list. When Assignment Execution commences, each assignment in the list is called and executed in turn.

Assignment Execution -- Once a Sample Assignment,0,0,66 list has been created it's execution may be initiated and controlled using the Run panel in the Assignment Editor. In ICP mode, sample assignments may be associated with AutoSampler positions to produce assignment lists which can be executed without operator intervention.

Module Essentials -- Modules are the fundamental building blocks from which Analysis Procedures are constructed. All module types may be executed in either online or Offline Analyses. Once module files are created, the File Manager can be used to assemble a library of such files on disk. These may be recalled for subsequent reuse.

The Element Database -- The Element Database module contains all necessary information for each element. The Sensitivity Factors, one for each type of detector, are used to calculate the element concentration. The Elemental Equation, indicates the method used to calculate the element concentration. The Isotopic Validation parameter is used to cross check for possible interferences. The mass and abundance parameters, specified for each isotope, are used to calculate the element concentration. A library of Database Modules may be assembled and used for different types of sample matrix.

Sensitivity Factors -- The sensitivity factors, located in the Element Database module, reflect the ratio of the current instrument response for a particular element to the value defined in the System Configuration facility. IR = Intensity (CPS)*Mass (AMU) Concentration (PPMW) SF = IR (System Configuration) IR (Current) If all variables are calculated for the same element, then the SF value should be close to unity. If all elements are ionized, transported and detected with equal bias, then all SF values should be close to unity. An ideally behaved system should produce SF values all close to unity. In such case, calibrating on one internal standard should produce accurate semi-quantitative results for all elements. Since IR(System Configuration) is a constant in all SF calculations, it should be derived from a number of elements with typical ionization responses.

Module Essentials -- Modules are the fundamental building blocks from which Analysis Procedures are constructed. All module types may be executed in either online or Offline Analyses. Once module files are created, the File Manager can be used to assemble a library of such files on disk. These may be recalled for subsequent reuse.

Elemental Equations -- Elemental Equations, located in the Element Database module, define the various methods used to calculate the element concentrations. The simplest type of equation is based on just one isotope, referred to as a reference mass. Co = 59Co Multiple reference masses may also be used. Pb = 206Pb+207Pb+208Pb Isobaric and molecular interferences may also be included for one or more of the reference masses. Re = 185Re+187Re-(0.023)195Pt Ge = 74Ge-(0.0034)40Ar38Ar

Isotopic Validation -- If an Elemental Equation contains more than one reference mass, then Isotopic
Validation (IV) may be employed to check for possible interferences. The method operates by comparing the measured relative abundances of the reference isotopes to the true relative abundances contained in the Element Database. If all the relative abundance values are correct to within the percentage window, as defined in the Element Database module, then the IV output parameter is reported as affirmative.

Optimizing Scan Parameters -- Scan parameter values, defined in the Scan Parameters module, determine how a data acquisition is performed. The channels per AMU parameter is used to set the number of channels covering one AMU. Smaller values decrease the overall scan time but also result in poorer peak definition. A typical value is 16 channels per AMU. The detector mode parameter is used to select the Detector System used for scanning.

The Faraday detector should be used to measure large analyte signals and for general survey work. The electron multiplier, a far more sensitive device, may be used for smaller signals. In AutoDetect mode, both detectors may be used sequentially to form a composite spectrum. The passes per scan parameter is used to set the number of passes per scan. At the end of the scan, all passes are averaged to produce a final spectrum. A large number of passes reduces the noise level but increases overall scan time. The dwelltime parameter is used to set the integration time for each channel. A large dwelltime reduces the noise level but increases the overall scan time. As a general guide the dwelltime should be above 50mS per channel when using the Faraday detector and below 50mS per channel when using the multiplier. The number of scans parameter is used to set the number of scan repetitions to be used for statistical purposes. For a fixed total scan time, larger numbers of scans result in better statistics but poorer detection limits.

Selecting Elements -- The Acquisition Modules, namely the Mass Calibration, Element Scan, and Sensitivity Calibration modules, all allow single or multiple element selection. Elements that are required to be analysed may be selected by depressing the displayed element buttons.

Scanning Options -- The Acquisition Modules, namely the Mass Calibration, Element Scan, and Sensitivity Calibration modules, all support several scanning options. The default option forms multiple mass ranges, one for each of the masses defined in the Elemental Equation of each selected element. With the ElemScan button depressed, multiple mass ranges are formed, each of which is continuous over all masses defined in the elemental equation of each selected element. With the FullScan button depressed, one continuous mass range is formed. The start and end masses of this range are defined in the Scanning Options. With the PeakJump button depressed, a seperate mass range is formed for each mass defined in the elemental equation of each selected element. The width of this mass range depends on the setting of PJ. Channels in the System Configuration facility.lp System.

Calibrations -- Mass Calibrations, defined in the Mass Calibration module, should be performed whenever isotope peaks no longer appear within 0.25 AMU of their exact masses. Sensitivity Calibrations, defined in the Sensitivity Calibration module, are performed regularly, especially when element concentrations need to be quantified accurately.

Controlling Instrument Hardware -- Various instrument hardware, including the AutoSampler and Peristaltic Pump, may be controlled by using the Instrument State module. This is particularly useful for carrying out washes and rinses between Sample Assignments, or for turning off the instrument at the end of an automatic run.

Calculating Element Concentrations -- Various quantification methods may be defined in the Element Concentrations module. Options available are semi-quantitative, direct concentration match, internal standardisation and isotope dilution methods. In addition, a sample blank may be defined and later subtracted from any calculated concentrations.

Calculating Isotope Ratios -- Isotope ratios for various elements may be defined in the Isotope Ratios module. Expressions may also be defined in order to correct for isobaric interferences
which may be present.

Procedure Essentials -- An Analysis Procedure is paired with a sample identifier to form a Sample Assignment. Analysis procedures may be executed in either online or Offline Analyses. Once procedure files are created, the File Manager can be used to assemble a library of such files on disk. These may be recalled for subsequent reuse.

Ordering of Modules -- When constructing an Analysis Procedure it is important to pay attention to the ordering of Module types. Both Element Database and Scan Parameter modules must always precede any type of Acquisition Module which in turn must precede and type of Quantification Module. The following analysis procedure shows the correct ordering of modules.
AnalysisProcedure1
[DBS] ICPDatabase
[SCP] QuickFaradayScan
[ESC] CadmiumAndLead
[EQT] SemiQuantitative

Performing Multiple Scans -- It is possible to perform several scans within a single Analysis Procedure by listing module types more than once. This is particularly valuable if some elements are present at widely different concentrations, or need to be measured more accurately than others. The following analysis procedure shows the use of multiple scans.
AnalysisProcedure2
[DBS] ICPDatabase
[SCP] QuickFaradayScan
[ESC] CadmiumAndLead
[EQT] SemiQuantitative
[SCP] SlowMultiplierScan
[ESC] Mercury
[EQT] DirectConcentrationMatch

Performing Multiple Calculations -- It is possible to perform several types of quantification calculations on the same data set. This is particularly useful when comparing a number of different quantification methods, or for directly observing the differences introduced by a blank subtraction. The following analysis procedure shows the use of multiple calculations.
AnalysisProcedure3
[DBS] ICPDatabase
[SCP] MultiplierScan
[ESC] MercuryWithPbSpike
[EQT] SemiQuantitative
[EQT] PbCorrected
[EQT] PbCorrected[MinusBlank]

Assignment Essentials -- Sample Assignments are formed by pairing an Analysis Procedure with a sample identifier. A list of sample assignments may be executed as either online or Offline Analyses. Once assignment files are created, the File Manager can be used to assemble a library of such files on disk. These may be recalled for subsequent reuse.

Manual Sample Assignment -- Sample assignment may be set to manual mode by depressing the Manual button in the Configure panel of the Assignment Editor. Assignments are added to the sample assignment list by clicking on the Tag Number box in the Sample Assignment window.

AutoSampler Assignment -- Sample assignment may be set to AutoSampler mode by depressing the AutoSampler button in the Configure panel of the Assignment Editor. Assignments are added to the sample assignment list by clicking on the Sample Position boxes in the Sample Assignment window.

Control of Execution --Execution of a Sample Assignment list is controlled from the Run panel of the
Assignment Editor. Options exist to start, pause, or abort execution of an assignment list. It is also possible to skip individual sample assignments within the list.

Offline Analysis -- Offline analyses may be performed by selecting the Analysis mode to be Offline in the Options panel of the Assignment Editor. An online analysis acquires new scan data while an offline analysis recalls previously acquired scan data from disk. If a Sample Assignment is run offline and no associated data file is found, then the data currently residing in the Instrument Control window is used. This feature can often prove beneficial since it offers a method for later quantifying manually acquired spectra.

A CloseBox -- Clicking on a CloseBox removes a Process from it's Window and returns it to an Icon. Note that a process can still be active while it is closed or hidden by other windows. Only it's display is affected.

A Scroll Bar -- Scroll bars are used to move a cursor up or down a list. Click on the slider with single arrows to move through the list one line at a time. Click with the left button to go down and with the right button to go up. Click on the slider with double arrows to move through the list one page at a time. Click with the left button to go down and with the right button to go up. To move the cursor to the ends of the list, click on the boxes at the ends of the scroll bar. The position of the slider shows the position of the cursor in the whole list. The solid part of the bar joining the two end buttons shows which part of the whole list is being displayed.

A Highlight -- Clicking on a Highlight reveals more detailed information about that subject. Click on the 'more ...' highlights to move between the pages of a longer item. For example, click {Here,4,0,3} to return to the description of the Help System.

The DOS Icon -- Click the mouse on this to terminate SOLA and return to DOS. You will be asked to confirm that you really want to exit the system. Note that all Sample Assignments will be terminated.

System Configuration -- This Facility allows you to customize various aspects of SOLA. When in a Window, the facility displays options associated with the software environment, instrument hardware, and automatic sample analysis.

The System Configuration Icon -- Click the mouse on this Icon to access the System Configuration facility. You will be asked to confirm that you really want to access the facility. Note that all Sample Assignments will be terminated.

The Analysis Toolkit -- This Facility provides you with some additional analysis tools. When in a Window, the facility allows you to process Time Resolved Data and Standard Addition analyses.

The Analysis Toolkit Icon -- Click the mouse on this Icon to access the Analysis Toolkit facility. You will be asked to confirm that you really want to access the facility. Note that all Sample Assignments will be terminated.

The Help System -- This Process provides online help for the SOLA software system. The Help System is active all the time that the Help Window is open. Normal mouse operations are suspended and the cursor is shown as a question mark. To read through the help pages click on the 'more ...' highlights. When the Help System is active, click on the item that you want help about. The Help window will come to the top of the window stack, displaying help on that item. If the item that you want help on is covered up, then first click anywhere in it's window to bring the window to the top of the window stack. You may then click on the item you are interested in. If a word or phrase in the Help text is Highlighted, then you can click on it to obtain more information about that topic. Sometimes the Help text covers several pages. You can move between the pages by clicking on the 'more ...' highlights. When you have finished using the Help System, click on the CloseBox to return the process to it's icon and deactivate the system.

The Help System Icon -- Click the mouse on this Icon to put the Help System, process in a Window.

The File Manager -- This Process, when in a Window, can be used to perform various operations on files. When invoked, the File Manager will automatically display the appropriate files for the window at the top of the window stack. Files are sorted with the most recent files at the top of the list. Files are selected by using the Scroll Bar to move the cursor over the desired filename. Operations can then be performed on the selected file by using the buttons in the Menu Bar.

The File Manager Icon -- Click the mouse on this Icon to put the File Manager process in a Window.  Note that this can only be done if one or more windows are already open and the top window utilises a legitimate file list that the File Manager can act upon.

The Menu Bar -- Use the buttons in this menu bar to perform operations on a file selected with the Scroll Bar. The Open button is used to load and open a file from disk. The Save button is used to save a file to disk, overwriting the original file contents. The SaveAs button is used to save a file to disk, using a new filename and leaving the original file intact. The Rename button is used to rename a file on disk. The Delete button is used to delete a file from disk.

The Open Button -- Use this button to load and open a file from disk. First use the Scroll Bar to select a file and then click on the Open button. Help System.

The Save Button -- Use this button to save a file to disk. First use the Scroll Bar to select a file and then click on the Save button. You will be asked to confirm that you really want to overwrite the contents of the original file. If the cursor bar has not been moved since the file was opened, then the same filename will be used and the original file contents overwritten.

The SaveAs Button -- Use this button to save a file to disk with a new filename. After clicking on the SaveAs button, use the pop-up Filename box to enter in the new filename. This may contain up to 24 characters of various kinds. Use the <Backspace> key to change any incorrect characters and press the <Enter> key when finished. The operation may be cancelled at any time by pressing the <Esc> key. If the new name of the file already exists then you will be asked to confirm that you really want to overwrite the original file.

The Rename Button -- Use this button to rename a file on disk First use the Scroll Bar to select a file and click on the Rename button. Use the pop-up Filename box to enter in the new filename. This may contain up to 24 characters of various kinds. Use the <Backspace> key to change any incorrect characters and press the <Enter> key when finished. The operation may be cancelled at any time by pressing the <Esc> key. If the new name of the file already exists then the file will not be renamed.

The Delete Button -- Use this button to delete a file from disk. First use the Scroll Bar to select a file and then click on the Delete button. You will be asked to confirm that you really want to delete the file.

The Instrument Monitor -- This Process constantly monitors the status of the instrument hardware. When in a Window, the process displays the status of individual instrument components. The visual display can be used to monitor instrument hardware sequences and to identify any sequence errors. Bright green lights represent active components, dark green lights represent inactive components, and red lights represent component faults. If a fault occurs, then the Instrument Monitor will identify the component fault and position itself at the top of the window stack.

The Instrument Monitor Icon -- Click the mouse on this Icon to put the Instrument Monitor process in a Window.

Instrument Control -- This Process is responsible for control of all instrument hardware. When in a
Window, it allows you to control the instrument interactively. The Mode panel is used to set or change the state of the instrument. The Sample Control panel is used to set or change the AutoSampler position and flow rate of the Peristaltic Pump. The Scan Control panel is used to define and execute a manual survey scan. The Chart Control panel and Chart Area are used to alter the chart display. The Peak Processing panel is used to aid peak recognition and identification.

The Instrument Control Icon -- Click the mouse on this Icon to put the Instrument Control process in a Window.

The Menu Bar -- Use the buttons in this menu bar to switch between control panels. The Sample button is used to select the Sample Control panel. The Scan button is used to select the Scan Control panel. The Process button is used to select the Peak Processing panel. The Mass Calib. button is used to select the Mass Calibration panel.

The Sample Button -- Use this button to select and display the Sample Control panel.

The Scan Button -- Use this button to select and display the Scan Control panel.

The Process Button -- Use this button to select and display the Peak Processing panel.

The Mass Calibration Button -- Use this button to select and display the Mass Calibration panel.

The Chart Control Panel -- Use the buttons in this panel to modify the chart display, either when viewing previously acquired spectra or during data acquisition. The Sum button is used to display either individual or averaged scan passes. The Plot button is used to select either linear or logarithmic plots. The Range and Gain buttons are used to define the vertical chart axis. The Window and Scroll buttons are used to define the horizontal chart axis. Note that changing the chart display does not affect the acquired data in any way.

The Sum Button -- Use this button to switch data summing either on or off. With data summing on, the chart displays the mean of all the scan passes to date. With data summing off, the chart displays only the most recent scan pass.

The Plot Button -- Use this button to switch between linear and logarithmic plots. Note that when the Plot button is set to Log, the Range and Gain buttons are not operational.

The Range Button -- Use this button, together with the Gain button, to define the vertical axis of the chart. Click with the left button to decrease, and with the right button to increase. Note that the scale can only be changed when the Plot is set to linear. The scale units are counts per second.

The Gain Button -- Use this button, together with the Range button, to define the vertical axis of the chart. Click with the left button to decrease, and with the right button to increase. Note that the scale can only be changed when the Plot is set to linear. The scale units are counts per second.

The Window Button -- Use this button, together with the Scroll button, to define the horizontal axis of the chart. Click with the left button to decrease, and with the right button to increase. Note that the scale units are Atomic Mass Units (AMU).

The Scroll Button -- Use this button, together with the Window button, to define the horizontal axis of the chart. Click with the left button to decrease, and with the right button to increase. Note that the scale units are Atomic Mass Units (AMU).

The Chart Display Area -- This area is used to display both current and previously acquired spectra. You may use the mouse in this area as a quick means to change the chart display scales. Click with the left mouse button to start the operation. Move the mouse to define a zoom area and when ready, click again with the left button to perform the zoom operation. Click with the right button to cancel the operation. The twenty most recent zoom operations are stored. To backtrack through the zoom operations, click with the right mouse button.

The Mode Panel -- Use the buttons in this panel to set or change the state of the instrument.The Off button is used to set the instrument to the off state. The Standby button is used to set the instrument to the standby state. The Active button is used to set the instrument to the active state. Once the instrument has reached it's selected state, the appropriate LED is lit. A bright green LED indicates a successful transition, whilst a red LED indicates an error. At any time, the Instrument Monitor may be used to examine the instrument state and identify any system errors.

The Off Button -- Use this button to switch the instrument to the off state. You will be asked to confirm the action. When switching to the off state, all source, analyzer and vacuum components are turned off and the system vented with Argon gas. A bright green LED indicates a successful transition, while a red LED indicates an error.

The Standby Button -- Use this button to switch the instrument to the standby state. You will be asked to confirm the action. When switching to the standby state, all source and analyzer components are turned off but the vacuum system remains on. A bright green LED indicates a successful transition, whilst a red LED indicates an error.

The Active Button -- Use this button to switch the instrument to the active state. You will be asked to confirm the action. When switching to the active state, all vacuum, source and analyzer components are turned on according to a predefined sequence. A bright green LED indicates a successful transition, whilst a red LED indicates an error.

The Scan Control Panel -- Use the buttons in this panel to define and execute a manual survey scan. The File Manager may be used to transfer a scan to, or from, disk. The Scan button is used to start or stop a scan. The Mass button is used to examine the individual channel data. The Ranges button is used to define the mass ranges to be scanned over. The Dwell button is used to set the integration time for each channel. The Channels button is used to set the number of channels per AMU. The Passes button is used to set the number of passes per scan. The Faraday button is used to select the Faraday detector for scanning. The SEM button is used to select the Secondary Electron Multiplier detector for scanning. For most scans the acquired data is displayed in real-time and you may interact with any part of the screen interface. However, extremely fast scans may temporarily prevent input.

The Monitor Button -- This scan option is not currently in use.

The Scan Button -- Use this button to start and to stop a manual survey scan. The scan will be performed over the current mass ranges, displayed in the chart area, and using the parameters set in the Scan Control panel.

The Mass Button -- Use this button to examine the channel counts which make up a scan. First click on the Mass button and then use the mouse to move the line cursor in the chart display area. The channel data is shown at the top of the display area. Click a mouse button to finish examining the channels. The channel data includes the measured mass, the channel number, and the number of counts per second recorded in that channel. When the line cursor is positioned at a mass which was not included in the scan then the channel number and number of counts are shown as void.

The Ranges Button -- Use this button to define the mass ranges to be scanned over. First click on the Ranges button and then use the mouse to move the line cursor in the chart display area. To define a mass range to be scanned, move the line cursor to the mass where the range will start and click a mouse button. Then move the line cursor to the mass where the range will end and click the mouse again. The mass range to be scanned over is shown by a bar along the bottom of the chart display area. To define further mass ranges, simply repeat the procedure. To finish defining ranges, move the line cursor off the right end of the chart.

The Dwell Button -- Use this button to set the dwelltime for each channel in the mass ranges. Click with the left button to decrease, and with the right button to increase. Note that the dwelltime is expressed in milliseconds.

The Channels Button -- Use this button to set the number of channels covering one Atomic Mass Unit(AMU). Click with the left button to decrease, and with the right button to increase. Increasing the number of channels per AMU allows the peaks to be resolved in more detail but increases the scan time.

The Passes Button -- Use this button to set the number of passes per scan. Click with the left button to decrease, and with the right button to increase. Increasing the number of passes results in reduced noise levels but increases the scan time.

The Faraday Button -- Use this button to select the Faraday as the active Detector System. The Faraday detector is extremely robust and is suitable for measuring larger ion signals and for preliminary scanning of unknown samples.

The SEM Button -- Use this button to select the Secondary Electron Multiplier as the active Detector System. The multiplier detector is extremely sensitive and is ideal for measuring low level trace components. It should never be used to scan over major peaks with count rates of 2MHz or greater.

The Sample Control Panel -- If a Peristaltic Pump is selected in the System Configuration facility and the instrument is in ICP mode, then the following options are available. The Pump button is used to start or stop the Peristaltic Pump. The Speed button is used to set the Peristaltic Pump speed. The Local button is used to switch the Peristaltic Pump in and out of local mode. The Rabbit button is used to switch the Peristaltic Pump in and out of rabbit mode. If an AutoSampler is selected in the System Configuration,2,0,0 facility and the instrument is in ICP mode, then the following options are available. The Rack button is used to move the AutoSampler arm to the required rack. The Posn button is used to move the AutoSampler arm to the required sample. The Arm button is used to move the AutoSampler arm up and down. The Forward Arrow button is used to move the AutoSampler arm one sample position forward along the same row. The Back Arrow button is used to move the AutoSampler arm one sample position back along the same row. The Left Arrow button is used to move the AutoSampler arm one sample position to the left. The Right Arrow button is used to move the AutoSampler arm one sample position to the right. The Home button is used to move the AutoSampler arm to the home position.

The Pump Button -- Use this button to start or stop the Peristaltic Pump.

The Local Button -- Use this button to switch the Peristaltic Pump in and out of local mode. In local mode, both the pump keypad and Sample Control panel may be used to control the pump.

The Speed Button -- Use this button to set the Peristaltic Pump speed. Click with the left button to decrease, and with the right button to increase. Note that the pump speed is expressed in hundredths of rpm.

The Rabbit Button -- Use this button to switch the Peristaltic Pump in and out of rabbit mode. Rabbit mode is particularly useful for performing washes and rinses between samples.

The Rack Button -- Use this button to move the AutoSampler arm to the required rack. Click with the left button to move down through racks, and with the right button to move up.

The Posn Button -- Use this button to move the AutoSampler arm to the required sample position in the currently selected rack. Click with the left button to decrease, and with the right button to increase.

The Arm Button -- Use this button to move the AutoSampler arm up and down.

The Forward Arrow Button -- Use this button to move the AutoSampler arm one sample position forward along the same row.

The Back Arrow Button -- Use this button to move the AutoSampler arm one sample position back along the same row.

The Left Arrow Button -- Use this button to move the AutoSampler arm one sample position to the left.

The Right Arrow Button -- Use this button to move the AutoSampler arm one sample position to the right.

The Home Button -- Use this button to move the AutoSampler arm to the home position.

The Peak Processing Panel -- Use the buttons in this panel to process raw data, identify peaks and print out spectra. The Identify button is used to label peaks with element symbols. The Process button is used to process raw data and display theoretical peaks. The Baseline button is used to subtract a baseline from each peak. The Smooth button is used to apply a smoothing algorithm to processed peaks. The Threshold button is used to select the value that a peak must have before the processing algorithm will recognize it. The Level button is used to set the increment size for the Threshold value. The Raw Data button is used to select whether raw data is displayed. The Shade button is used to display processed peaks as filled curves. The Print button is used to obtain a printed copy of the chart display area. The Feed button is used to execute a form feed at the printer.


The Identify Button -- Use this button to label peaks with the chemical symbols for possible elements.

The Process Button -- Use this button to mathematically process the raw data and display theoretical peaks. The processed peaks can be displayed as either outlines or filled curves by using the Shade button.

The Baseline Button -- Use this button to subtract a baseline from processed peaks. Note that the baseline is calculated individually for each peak.

The Smooth Button -- Use this button to apply a smoothing algorithm to processed peaks. The algorithm is only used to display the data, not whilst performing calculations. The algorith used is selected using the System Configuration facility.

The Threshold Button -- Use this button to change the Threshold value that a peak must have before the processing algorithm will recognise it. Click with the left button to decrease, and with the right button to increase. Note that the Level button can be used to change the increment size.

The Level Button -- Use this button to set the increment size for the Threshold value. Click with the left button to decrease, and with the right button to increase.

The Raw Data Button -- Use this button to select whether the original raw data is displayed.

The Shade Button -- Use this button to display processed peaks as either outlines or filled curves.

The Print Button -- Use this button to print out the current chart display. After clicking on the Print button, use the pop-up Printout Header box to enter in the new title. This may contain up to 50 characters of various kinds. Use the <Backspace> key to change any incorrect characters and press the <Enter> key when finished. The operation may be cancelled at any time by pressing the <Esc> key. If no input is supplied, then the current Spectrum name is used as the title. Normally, two spectra are printed per page. If you wish to print a single spectrum on one page, then use the Feed button after the Print command has executed.

The Feed Button -- Use this button to send a form feed to the printer.

The Mass Calibration Panel -- Use the buttons in this panel to modify the mass calibration. You may need to do this if the mass calibration is not accurate enough for the automatic mass calibration module to work. The Clear button is used to clear the displayed mass calibration. The Add button is used to add new points to the displayed mass calibration. The Refresh button is used to reload the mass calibration stored on disk. The Update button is used to store the displayed mass calibration on disk, overwriting the existing one. You can also delete individual points.

The Clear Button -- Use this button to clear all the points from the currently displayed mass calibration. It is also possible to delete individual points. The calibration stored on disk is not affected.

The Add Button -- Use this button to add a new point to the currently displayed mass calibration. Move the line cursor to the position where you want to define a mass and click. Then enter the mass you wish to define this position to be. You may enter a mass as a number e.g. 114.904 or as an isotope, e.g. 115In. If you enter an isotope then the mass stored for that isotope in the default {database,0,0,69} is used. The calibration stored on disk is not affected.

The Refresh Button -- Use this button to reset the currently displayed mass calibration back to the values stored on disk.

The Update Button -- Use this button to replace the mass calibration values stored on disk with the currently displayed mass calibration. You will be asked to confirm your action. If you store a mass calibration with zero or one points in it then a default calibration will be used.

To Delete a point -- To delete a point from the currently displayed mass calibration click on its DAC value (the number displayed in red). You will be asked to confirm your action. The calibration stored on disk is not affected.

Assignment Editor -- This Process is responsible for fully automatic sample analysis. When in a Window it allows you to define and execute single or multiple analyses. The Assign Screen is used to define a Sample Assignment list and then control it's execution. The Build Screen is used to build an Analysis Procedure from a series of Modules. The Create Screen is used to create and modify modules.

The Assignment Editor Icon -- Click the mouse on this Icon to put the Assignment Editor process in a Window.

The Assign Screen -- Use the panels in this screen to define a Sample Assignment list and control it's execution. The Configure Panel is used to define the sample introduction mode. The Define Panel is used to define a list of sample assignments. The Options Panel is used to select various analysis options. The Execute Panel is used to initiate and control execution of the current sample assignment list.

The Build Screen -- Use the panels in this screen to define an Analysis Procedure. The Analysis Procedure panel is used to build up a series of Modules into an analysis procedure. The Modules panel is used to select the different modules that will make up the analysis procedure.

The Create Screen -- Use the panels in this screen to create and edit different Modules. The Modules panel is used to select different module types.

The Status Screen -- The panels in this screen show the current status of a Sample Assignment
while it is running.

The Menu Bar -- Use the buttons in this menu bar to switch between editing screens. The Assign button is used to select the Assign Screen. The Build button is used to select the Build Screen. The Create button is used to select the Create Screen. The Status button is used to select the Status Screen. The Clear button is a tool, used either to clear a Sample Assignment list or an Analysis Procedure. The Print button is also a tool, used to print a Sample Assignment list an Analysis Procedure or a module.

The Assign Button -- Use this button to select and display the Assign Screen.

The Build Button -- Use this button to select and display the Build Screen.

The Create Button -- Use this button to select and display the Create Screen.

The Status Button :
Use this button to select and display the Status Screen.

The Clear Button -- When working with the Assign Screen, use this button to clear the current Sample Assignment list. When working with the Build Screen, use this button to clear the current Analysis Procedure.

The Print Button -- Use this button to print the current Sample Assignment, Analysis Procedure, or Module details. If you select Print in the modules Screen then SOLA will ask for confirmation and will then print the current data for all the modules.

The Configure Panel -- Use the buttons in this panel to select the sample introduction mode. The Manual button is used to switch sample introduction to manual mode. The AutoSampler button is used to switch sample introduction to AutoSampler mode. If an AutoSampler is selected in the System Configuration facility and the instrument is in ICP mode, then the following options are available. The Rack buttons are used to select theactive rack. The Change Code button is used to changethe rack code of the active rack.

The Rack Buttons -- Use the rack buttons to select the active rack. Note that sample positions are always selected from the active rack. Button 1 - Rack B, Button 2 - Rack C, Button 3 - Rack D, Button 4 - Rack E, Button 5 - Manual

The Manual Button -- Use this button to switch sample introduction to manual mode. In manual mode the AutoSampler is deactivated and all buttons associated with the AutoSampler are inoperative.

The AutoSampler Button -- Use this button to switch sample introduction to AutoSampler mode.

The Change Code Button -- Use this button to change the rack code of the active rack. Click with the left mouse button to decrease the rack code and with the right mose button to increase the rack code. Note that only rack codes specified in the Gilson manual are available.

The Define Panel -- Use the buttons in this panel to create and modify a Sample Assignment list. The File Manager may be used to transfer a list to, or from, disk. The Add button is used to add a sample assignment to the list. The Modify button is used to modify a sample assignment in the list. The Move button is used to move a sample assignment to a different position in the list. The {Delete,8,3,4} button is used to delete a sample assignment from the list.

The Add Button -- Use this button to add a Sample Assignment, beneath the cursor bar position, to the sample assignment list. First use the Scroll Bar to select the desired cursor bar position and click on the Add button. Then use the Sample Assignment window to define the new sample assignment and add it to the list.

The Modify Button -- Use this button to modify a Sample Assignment, highlighted by the cursor bar, in the sample assignment list. First use the Scroll Bar to select the desired sample assignment and click on the Modify button. Then use the Sample Assignment window to modify the sample assignment and replace it in the list.

The Move Button -- Use this button to move a Sample Assignment, highlighted by the cursor bar, in the sample assignment list. First use the Scroll Bar to select the desired sample assignment and click on the Move button. Use the scroll bar again to move the sample assignment to a new list position. Click again on the Move button to end the procedure.

The Delete Button -- Use this button to delete a Sample Assignment, highlighted by the cursor bar, from the sample assignment list. First use the Scroll Bar to select the desired sample assignment and click on the Delete button. You will be asked to confirm that you really want to delete the sample assignment from the list.

The Run Panel -- Use the buttons in this panel to control execution of the Sample Assignment list.
The File Manager may be used to transfer a list to, or from, disk. The Start button is used to start execution of the list. The Pause button is used to pause execution of the list. The Skip button is used to abort the current sample assignment and skip to the next entry in the list. The Abort button is used to abort execution of the list. Note that the Pause, Skip and Abort commands do not take effect until the end of the currently executing Module.

The Start Button -- Use this button to start execution of the Sample Assignment list.

The Pause Button -- Use this button to temporarily pause execution of the Sample Assignment list. Note that the command does not take effect until the end of the currently executing Module.

The Abort Button -- Use this button to stop execution of the Sample Assignment list. Note that the command does not take effect until the end of the currently executing Module.

The Skip Button -- Use this button to abort the current Sample Assignment and skip to the next entry in the sample assignment list. Note that the command does not take effect until the end of the currently executing Module.

The Analysis Procedure Panel -- Use this panel, together with the Modules panel, to build an Analysis Procedure. The File Manager may be used to transfer a procedure to, or from, disk. First click on the required Module button to invoke the File Manager. Use the Scroll Bar to select the desired module name and then click again in the Assignment Editor window to close the File Manager. The module name will appear in the panel display area. Repeat this process, building up a list of modules to form the analysis procedure. The list may be cleared at any time by using the Clear button. Modules, are optional since acquired data does not need to be quantified at run time. Analysis procedures containing any type of Quantification Module must include a previously declared Element Scan module. Analysis procedures containing any type of Acquisition Module must include both a previously declared Element Databasemodule and Scan Parameters module.

The Modules Panel -- Use the buttons in this panel to select a Module type. The File Manager may be used to transfer a module to, or from, disk. Data Modules contain essential data and parameters required to perform either an online or Offline Analysis. Acquisition Modules acquire or retrieve data during either an online or offline analysis. Option Modules perform optional tasks or functions which may be included in an Analysis Procedure. Quantification Modules quantify acquired data during either an online or offline analysis.

The Element Database Module -- This Module is used to define the Sensitivity Factors, Elemental Equation, and isotopic data for each element. A library of Database modules may be assembled and used for different types of sample matrix.

The Scan Parameters Module -- This Module is used to define the Scan Parameters used for a data acquisition. A library of Scan Parameter modules may be assembled and used for different
types of acquisition.

The Mass Calibration Module -- This Module is used to define which elements are to be scanned during a Mass Calibration. A library of Mass Calibration modules may be assembled and used for different calibration standards.

The Sensitivity Calibration Module -- This Module is used to define which elements are to be scanned during a Sensitivity Calibration. A library of Sensitivity Calibration modules may be assembled and used for different calibration standards.

The Element Scan Module -- This Moduleis used to define whichelements are to be scanned during a sample analysis. A library of Element Scan modules may be assembled and used for different types of analysis.

The Instrument State Module -- This Module is used to define states that the instrument, AutoSampler and peristaltic pump can be set to during an Analysis Procedure. A library of Instrument State modules may be assembled and used to change states of the hardware components.

The AutoTune Module -- This Module is used to define the element and parameters used to perform an automatic tuning of the instrument. An executable AutoTune module will be available in a later software release.

The Timeout Module -- This Module is used to define a periodof time that an Analysis Procedure will be paused for. A library of Timeout modules may be assembled and used as pause periods for washouts, rinses and other analysis functions.

The Element Concentrations Module -- This Module is used to define the quantification method used to calculate element concentrations. A library of Element Concentration modules may be assembled and used for different types of analysis.

The Isotope Ratios Module -- This Module is used to define which isotope ratios are to be calculated. A library of Isotope Ratio modules may be assembled and used for different types of analysis.

An Inhibited Element -- This element cannot be selected for this particular operation.

An Element Button -- Use these buttons to select or deselect an element from the Periodic Table.

Hydrogen, Helium, Lithium, Beryllium, ... Lawrencium -- Click on the Element button to select or deselect this element. Edit the HELP.TXT file to display any comments which may be helpful for future analyses.

The Element Database Window -- Use the buttons in this Window to create or modify an Element Database module. The File Manager may be used to transfer a module to, or from, disk. The Element buttons are used to edit the data and parameters associated with each element.

The Element Window -- Use the Edit button to modify the parameters displayed in this Window.
The Sensitivity Factors, one for each type of detector, are used to calculate the element concentration. The Isotopic Validation parameter is used to cross check for possible interferences. The Elemental Equation indicates the method used to calculate the element concentration. The Mass and Abundance parameters, specified for each isotope, are used to calculate the element concentration.

The Edit button -- Use this button to modify the parameters displayed in this Window.
Cycle through the items in the display area by using the <Enter> key, typing in new entries wherever required. To finish editing, either click on the Edit button again or press the <Esc> key.

The Scan Parameters Window -- Use the Edit button in this Window to create or modify a Scan Parameters module. The File Manager may be used to transfer a module to, or from, disk. The Channels per AMU parameter is used to set the number of channels covering one Atomic Mass Unit (AMU). The Detector Mode parameter is used to select a detector type for scanning. The Passes per Scan parameter is used to set the number of passes per scan. The Dwell Time parameter is used to set the dwelltime for each channel. The Number of Scans parameter is used to set the number of scan repetitions to be used for statistical purposes.

The Mass Calibration Window -- Use the buttons in this Window to create or modify a Mass Calibration module. The File Manager may be used to transfer a module to, or from disk. The Element buttons are used to select which elements are to be included in the mass calibration. Up to 20 elements may be selected. The ElemScan button is used to select multiple mass ranges, each of which is continuous over all masses defined in an Elemental Equation. The FullScan button is used to select one continuous mass range, covering all of the mass range, except Argon. The PeakJump button is used to select peak jumping mode.

The ElemScan Button -- Use this button to select multiple mass ranges, each of which is continuous over all masses defined in an Elemental Equation. This mode is particularly useful for examining the mass spectrum of, and surrounding, a particular element. It is often informative when performing isotopic analyses.

The FullScan Button -- Use this button to select one continuous mass range, the upper and lower limits of which are defined in the System Configuration facility. This mode is particularly useful for examining a large portion of the mass spectrum. It offers complete flexibility for offline quantification, since allmasses are available for examination.

The Peak Jump Button -- Use this button to select peak jumping mode. This will form a seperate mass range for each peak. The peak width will be either one, three or five channels wide depending upon the PJ. Channels setting in the System Configuration facility. If PJ Channels is set to "All Channels" then the mass range is set to the center mass ± the ExtraRange value.

The Sensitivity Calibration Window -- Use the buttons in this Window to create or modify a Sensitivity Calibration module. The File Manager may be used to transfer a module to, or from, disk. The Element buttons are used to select which elements are to be included in the sensitivity calibration and to edit the parameters associated with each element. The ElemScan button is used to select multiple mass ranges, each of which is continuous over all masses defined in an Elemental Equation. The FullScan button is used to select one continuous mass range, covering all of the mass range, except Argon. The PeakJump button is used to select peak jumping mode. The Blank File, button is used to select an blank (intensity) file to subtract from the sensitivity calibration intensity values before calculating the Sensitivity Factors.

The Blank File Button -- Use this button to select an blank (intensity) file to subtract from the sensitivity calibration intensity values before calculating the Sensitivity Factors. To cancel your selection press the button again.

The Element Window -- Use the Edit button to modify the parameter displayed in this Window. The Concentration parameter, the amount of spike expressed in parts per billion weight, is used to calculate the element Sensitivity Factor. You can also select one element as an Internal Standard by entering Yes or No. If you change your selection and select another element as the Internal Standard then the first element is automatically deselected.

The Element Scan Window -- Use the buttons in this Window to create or modify an Element Scan module. The File Manager may be used to transfer a module to, or from, disk. The Element buttons are used to select which elements are to be included in the Element Scan. The ElemScan button is used to select multiple mass ranges, each of which is continuous over all masses defined in an Elemental Equation. The FullScan button is used to select one continuous mass range, covering all of the mass range, except Argon. The PeakJump button is used to select peak jumping mode.

The Instrument State Window -- Use the Edit button in this Window to create or modify an Instrument State module. The File Manager may be used to transfer a module to, or from, disk. The Instrument Mode parameter is used to set the instrument mode. The options are Active, Standby, Off and NotSet. The Rack Position parameter is used to select the active AutoSampler rack. The options are A, B, C, D and E. The Sample Position parameter is used to select a sample position within the active AutoSampler rack. The options are a cardinal value or NotSet. The Peristaltic Pump parameter is used to set the peristaltic pump state. The options are On, Off, Rabbit and NotSet. The Pump Speed parameter, expressed in hundredths of revolutions per minute, is used to set the speed of the peristaltic pump. The options are a cardinal value, between 0 and 4800, and NotSet.

The AutoTune Window -- Use the buttons in this Window to create or modify an AutoTune module. The File Manager may be used to transfer a module to, or from, disk. The Element buttons are used to select the element to tune on.

The Parameters Window -- Use the Edit button to modify the parameters displayed in this Window. The Number of Tuning Cycles parameter specifies the number of cycles to be performed. The options are 1 to 6. The Use Default Values parameter determines whether the lenses are initially set to the specified default values, or remain at their current settings, before tuning commences. The options are Yes or No. The Order parameters determine the sequence in which the lenses are optimized. The options are 1 to 6. The Value parameters determine the default values used if the Use Default Values parameter is set to Yes.

The Timeout Window -- Use the Edit button in this Window to create or modify a Timeout module. The File Manager may be used to transfer a module to, or from, disk. The Hours parameter is used to set the hours value for the delay period. The options are 0 to 23. The Minutes parameter is used to set the minutes value for the delay period. The options are 0 to 59. The Seconds parameter is used to set the seconds value for the delay period. The options are 0 to 59.

The Element Concentrations Window -- Use the panel in this Window to create or modify an Element Concentrations module. The File Manager may be used to transfer a module to, or from, disk. The Quantification Options panel is used to define the quantification method.

The Quantification Options Panel -- Use the buttons in this panel to define the quantification method. The Define Blank or Standard button is used to define an intensity file from an element scan. The Semi Quantitative button is used to calculate concentrations using a semi quantitative method.

The Internal Standardization button is used to calculate concentrations by means of an internal spike. The Direct Concentration Match button is used to calculate concentrations using a Sensitivity Factor of 1.0. The Isotope Dilution button is used to calculate an element concentration by means of an isotopic spike. The Subtract Blank button is used to subtract a previously defined intensity file from the calculated concentrations.

The Define Blank or Standard Button -- Use this button to define an intensity file (to use in blank subtractions or sensitivity calibrations.) Note that this option cannot be selected together with the Subtract Blank option. When you press the button it will bring the File Manager window to the top displaying the available intensity files To select an intensity file, use the Scroll Bar to move the cursor to the intensity file you wish to use thenclick again in the Assignment window. If you wish to use a new intensity file you should first create an empty file using the {SaveAs,5,1,3} button and then select it using the Scroll Bar.

The Semi Quantitative Button -- Use this button to calculate elementconcentrations using previously defined Sensitivity Factors. Note that this option cannot be selected together with either the Internal Standardisation, Direct Concentration Match or Isotope Dilution options.

The Internal Standardization Button -- Use this button to calculate element concentrations by means of an internal spike. Note that this option cannot be selected together with the Semi Quantitative, Direct Concentration Match or Isotope Dilution options.

The Direct Concentration Match Button -- Use this button to calculate element concentrations using a Sensitivity Factor of 1.0. Note that this option cannot be selected together with the Semi Quantitative, Internal Standardisation or Isotope Dilution options.

The Isotope Dilution Button -- Use this button to calculate element concentrations by means of an isotopic spike. Note that this option cannot be selected together with the Semi Quantitative,

Internal Standardisation or Direct Concentration Match options.

The Blank Subtract Button -- Use this button to select an intensityfile to use for blank subtractions. Note that this option cannot be selected together with the Define Blank option. When you press the button it will bring the File Manager window to the topdisplaying the available intensity files. To select an intensity file, use the Scroll Bar to move the cursor to the intensity file you wish to use then click again in the Assignment window.

The Internal Standards Window -- Use the Edit button to modify the parameters displayed in this Window.  The Element parameters, one for each detector type, are used to define which elements are to be used as internally normalising standards. Note that the ** symbol refers to the null element. The Concentration parameters, expressed in parts per million weight, are used to define the concentrations for each element. The Isotope Dilution Window : Use the Edit button to modify the parameters displayed in this Window. The Ratio parameter is used to define the isotope ratio of interest. The Atomic Mass parameters, expressed in AMU, are used to define the average weighted values of isotopes A and B inthe spike and sample. The Volume parameters, expressed in mL, are used to define the volumes of the spike and sample. The Concentration parameter, expressed in parts per million weight, is used to define the concentration of the spike. The Abundance parameters, expressed as a percentage, are used to define the abundances of isotopes A and B in the spike and sample.

The Isotope Ratios Window -- Use the buttons in this Window to create or modify an Isotope Ratios module. The File Manager may be used to transfer a module to, or from, disk. The Element buttons are used to select which elements are to be quantified andto edit the Ratio and Interference parameters associated with each element. Up to 10 elements may be selected.

The Element Window -- Use the Edit button to modify theparameters displayed in this Window.
The Ratios parameter, composed of twoisotopes, is used to define the isotope ratios. Both isotopes must be entered individually. Ratio parameters have the following syntax The Interferences parameter, composed of two isotopes and an interference factor, is used to define any interferences. The isotope and interference values must all be entered individually. You can only enter masses in the range of isotope masses entered in the database. Interference parameters have the following syntax 87/85 =.386.

The Options Panel -- Use the buttons in this panel to select various analysis options. The Analyse button is used to select either online or Offline Analyses. The Print button is used to select the required level of results output to the printer. The Store button is used to select the required level of results output to the target drive. The Path button is used to enter a directory or disk drive to use for results output. The Current button is used to set the Path to the current directory.

The Analyse Button -- Use this button to perform either onlineor Offline Analyses. An online analysis acquires new scan data while an offline analysis recalls previously acquired scan data from disk.

The Print Button -- Use this button to select the required level of results output to the printer. Off : No output. SprdSht : Final results, in a comma delimited format, for loading directly into a spreadsheet. Level 1 : Final Results data, including {sensitivity factor,0,0,71} , mean concentration, blank concentration and final concentration of each element. Level 2 : Level 1 plus elemental
concentrations determined from individual isotopes. Level 3 : Level 2 plus mean intensities of individual isotopes. Level 4 : Level 3 plus intensities, sensitivity factors, concentrations, {isotopic validation, and elemental equation data for each scan. Level 5 : Level 4 plus the intensities of individual isotopes for each scan.

The Store Button -- Use this button to select the requiredlevel of results output to the target drive. Off : No output. SprdSht : Final results, in a comma delimited format, for loading directly into a spreadsheet. Level 1 : Final Results data, including sensitivity factor, mean concentration, blank concentration and final concentration of each element. Level 2 : Level 1 plus elemental concentrations determined from individual isotopes. Level 3 : Level 2 plus mean intensities of individual isotopes. Level 4 : Level 3 plus intensities, sensitivity factors, concentrations, isotopic validation, and elemental equation data for each scan. Level 5 : Level 4 plus the intensities of individual isotopes for each scan.

The Path Button -- Use this button to enter a directory or disk drive to use for results output. This could be a floppy disk or any other DOS device. You may specify the current directory by using the DOS shorthand "."For example "A:." would specify the current directory on drive A:.

The Current Button -- Use this button to set the Path to the current directory. The current directory is the directory you were in when SOLA was run. This will usually be the \SOLA directory.

The Sample Assignment Window -- Use the buttons in this window to definean entry in the Sample Assignment list. The Batch Identifier button is used toenter an identification string for a
series of sample assignments. The Sample Identifier button is used to enter an identification string for an individual sample assignment. The Dilution Factor button is used to enter a dilution factor for a sample assignment. The Analysis Procedure button is used to select an Analysis Procedure for a sample assignment. When AutoSampler mode is selected for sample introduction, then four more
buttons are displayed. The Uptake button is used to define a delay, in seconds, for initial sample uptake at the start of the assignment. The Wash button is used to define a delay, in seconds, for uptake of a wash solution at the end of an assignment. The Change Rack button is used to move to a new rack. Click with the left button to go to the previous rack and with the right to go to the next rack. The Next Sample button is used to add a sample at the next available sample position. When sample introduction is in manual mode, the Tag Number box is used to add new entries to the sample assignment list. When in AutoSampler mode, the Sample Position boxes are used.

The Batch Identifier Button -- Use this button to enter or modify the identification string for a series of Sample Assignments. This may contain upto 24 characters of various kinds. Use the <Backspace> key to change any incorrect characters and press the <Enter> key when finished. The operation
may be cancelled at any time by pressing the <Esc> key.

The Sample Identifier Button -- Use this button to enter or modify the identification string for an individual Sample Assignment. This may contain up to 24 characters of various kinds. Use the <Backspace> key to change any incorrect characters and press the <Enter> key when finished. The operation may be cancelled at any time by pressing the <Esc> key. If the sample identifier is a whole
number then it will be automatically incremented each time you enter a new sample.

The Dilution Factor Button -- Use this button to enter or modify the dilution factor for a Sample Assignment. Use the <Backspace> key to change any incorrect characters and press the <Enter> key when finished. The operation may be cancelled at any time by pressing the <Esc> key.

The Analysis Procedure Button :-- Use this button to select an Analysis Procedure for a Sample Assignment. First click on the Analysis Procedure button to invoke the File Manager. Use the Scroll Bar to select the desired procedure name and then click in the Sample Assignment window again to close the File Manager.

The Uptake Button -- Use this button to enter or modify the uptake delay period at the start of a Sample Assignment. The permitted range is from 0 to 999 seconds. Use the <Backspace> key to change any incorrect characters and press the <Enter> key when finished. The operation may be cancelled at any time by pressing the <Esc> key.

The Wash Button -- Use this button to enter or modify the wash delay period at the end of a Sample Assignment. The permitted range is from 0 to 999 seconds. Use the <Backspace> key to change any incorrect characters and press the <Enter> key when finished. The operation may be cancelled at any time by pressing the <Esc> key.

The Change Rack Button -- Use this button to change the currentrack without having to go back to the Assignment Editor window. Click with the left button to go tothe previous rack and with the rightbutton to go to the next rack.

The Next Sample Button -- Use this button to add a new entry at the next available sample position. This will be the sample position after the previously added sample. If no samples have been previously added it will the first position in the rack. If the previous sample was the last sample in a rack then the next rack will be automatically selected and the first sample position in it will be used. If you change racks manually then the next sample position will be set to the first sample position in the rack.

The Tag Number Box -- Use this box to add new entries to the Sample Assignment list when sample introduction is in manual mode. Click once in the box to add a new sample assignment, or several times to add multiple assignments. The Tag Number indicates the total number of sample
assignments in the list.

A Sample Position Box -- Use these boxes to add new entries to the {Sample Assignment,0,0,66} list when sample introduction is in AutoSampler mode. The Sample Position boxes represent the samples in an AutoSampler rack. Click once in a box to add a new sample assignment, or several times to add multiple assignments for the same sample.

The Data Manager -- This Facility allows you to manipulate data files.You can backup and restore files to floppy disks and other directories; rename DOS files; delete many files at once and convert files between binary and ASCII format.

The Data Manager Icon -- Click the mouse on this Icon to access the Data Manager facility. You will be asked to confirm that you really want to access the facility. Note that all Sample Assignments will be terminated.

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