NOVA

Getting started
 NOVA Getting started

Table of contents
Introduction .......................................................................................................... 7
The philosophy of Nova ........................................................................................ 8
1 – Nova installation ........................................................................................... 11
1.1 – Requirements ......................................................................................... 11
1.2 – Software installation .............................................................................. 11
1.2.1 – .NET 4.0 framework installation....................................................... 11
1.2.2 – Nova installation .............................................................................. 13
1.2.3 – USB Drivers installation .................................................................... 15
1.2.4 – GPES/FRA and older NOVA versions compatibility ............................ 19
1.2.5 – Multiple instruments ........................................................................ 22
1.3 – Connection to the instrument(s) ............................................................. 25
1.3.1 – Connection and identification of individual instruments ................... 27
1.3.2 – Connection and identification of the Multi Autolab ......................... 28
1.3.3 – Hardware setup ............................................................................... 29
1.4 – FRA2 calibration file ............................................................................... 31
1.5 – Diagnostics............................................................................................. 35
1.5.1 – Autolab Firmware Update................................................................ 43
1.6 – Module test in NOVA ............................................................................. 44
1.6.1 – Test of the Autolab PGSTAT............................................................. 46
1.6.1.1 – Test of the Autolab PGSTAT128N, 302N, 302F (normal mode),
100N, 204 and µAutolab III ......................................................................... 46
1.6.1.2 – Test of the Autolab PGSTAT101 and M101 .................................. 49
1.6.1.3 – Test of the Autolab PGSTAT302F in floating mode ....................... 52
1.6.2 – Test of the ADC750 or the ADC10M ............................................... 55
1.6.3 – Test of BA........................................................................................ 57
1.6.4 – Test of BIPOT ................................................................................... 60
1.6.5 – Test of ARRAY ................................................................................. 61
1.6.6 – Test of the Booster10A and the Booster20A .................................... 62
1.6.7 – Test of ECD...................................................................................... 64
1.6.8 – Test of ECN ..................................................................................... 65
1.6.9 – Test of FI20-Filter............................................................................. 67
1.6.10 – Test of FI20-Integrator ................................................................... 68
1.6.11 – Test of FI20-Integrator-PGSTAT101 ............................................... 70
1.6.12 – Test of FRA .................................................................................... 73
1.6.13 – Test of MUX .................................................................................. 78
1.6.14 – Test of pX and pX1000.................................................................. 80
1.6.15 – Test of the SCANGEN or the SCAN250 .......................................... 82
1.6.16 – Test of the SCANGEN or the SCAN250 in combination with the
ACD750 or the ADC10M ............................................................................. 83
1.6.17 – Test of the EQCM .......................................................................... 86
1.6.18 – Determination of the C1 and C2 factors of the Autolab ................. 89
1.6.18.1 – Determination of C1 ................................................................... 91
1.6.18.2 – Determination of C2 ................................................................... 95
2 – A typical Nova measurement ........................................................................ 99
2.1 – Starting up the software (installation required, see Chapter 1) ............... 99
2.2 – Running cyclic voltammetry on the dummy cell .................................... 101

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2.2.1 – Setting up the experiment ............................................................. 102

2.2.2 – Viewing the measured data ........................................................... 106
2.2.3 – Analyzing the measured data ........................................................ 108
2.2.4 – Using the data grid ........................................................................ 114
2.2.5 – Saving to the database .................................................................. 122
3 – The Autolab procedures group.................................................................... 123
3.1 – Cyclic voltammetry potentiostatic ......................................................... 126
3.2 – Cyclic voltammetry galvanostatic .......................................................... 128
3.3 – Cyclic voltammetry current integration ................................................. 130
3.4 – Cyclic voltammetry linear scan .............................................................. 131
3.5 – Cyclic voltammetry linear scan high speed ............................................ 131
3.6 – Linear sweep voltammetry potentiostatic ............................................. 132
3.7 – Linear sweep voltammetry galvanostatic .............................................. 134
3.8 – Linear polarization ................................................................................ 136
3.9 – Hydrodynamic linear sweep.................................................................. 138
3.10 – Differential pulse voltammetry ............................................................ 141
3.11 – Square wave voltammetry .................................................................. 141
3.12 – Sampled DC polarography .................................................................. 141
3.13 – Chrono amperometry (∆t > 1 ms) ....................................................... 142
3.14 – Chrono potentiometry (∆t > 1 ms) ...................................................... 144
3.15 – Chrono amperometry fast .................................................................. 145
3.16 – Chrono potentiometry fast ................................................................. 149
3.17 – Chrono coulometry fast ...................................................................... 151
3.18 – Chrono amperometry high speed ....................................................... 151
3.19 – Chrono potentiometry high speed ...................................................... 152
3.20 – Chrono charge discharge ................................................................... 152
3.21 – i-Interrupt........................................................................................... 154
3.22 – i-Interrupt high speed ......................................................................... 154
3.23 – Positive feedback ............................................................................... 155
3.24 – FRA impedance potentiostatic ............................................................ 155
3.25 – FRA impedance galvanostatic ............................................................. 156
3.26 – FRA potential scan ............................................................................. 156
4 – Autolab Hardware information ................................................................... 157
4.1 – Overview of the Autolab instrument..................................................... 157
4.1.1 – Event timing in the Autolab ........................................................... 161
4.2 – Consequence of the digital base of the Autolab ................................... 163
4.3 – Autolab PGSTAT information ................................................................ 164
4.3.1 – Front panel and cell cable connection ............................................ 164
4.3.2 – Power up ....................................................................................... 167
4.3.3 – Connections for analog signals ...................................................... 167
4.3.3.1 – Connections for analog signals (front panel) ............................... 167
4.3.3.2 – Connections for analog signals (monitor cable) ........................... 168
4.3.4 – High stability, High speed and Ultra high speed ............................. 170
4.3.5 – RE input impedance and stability ................................................... 172
4.3.6 – Galvanostatic FRA measurements .................................................. 173
4.3.7 – Galvanostat, potentiostat and iR-compensation bandwidth ........... 173
4.3.8 – Galvanostatic operation and current range linearity ....................... 174
4.3.9 – Oscillation detection ...................................................................... 176

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4.3.10 – Maximum reference electrode voltage ......................................... 177

4.3.11 – Active cells .................................................................................. 178
4.3.12 – Grounded cells ............................................................................ 178
4.3.13 – Environmental conditions ............................................................ 178
4.3.14 – Temperature overload ................................................................. 178
4.3.15 – Noise ........................................................................................... 179
4.4 – Autolab PGSTAT302F information ........................................................ 180
4.4.1 – Front panel and cell cable connection ............................................ 181
4.4.2 – Power up ....................................................................................... 182
4.4.3 – Connections for analog signals ...................................................... 183
4.4.3.1 – Connections for analog signals (front panel) ............................... 183
4.4.3.2 – Connections for analog signals (monitor cable) ........................... 184
4.4.4 – High stability and High speed ........................................................ 185
4.4.5 – RE input impedance and stability ................................................... 187
4.4.6 – Galvanostatic FRA measurements .................................................. 188
4.4.7 – Galvanostat, potentiostat and iR-compensation bandwidth ........... 188
4.4.8 – Galvanostatic operation and current range linearity ....................... 189
4.4.9 – Oscillation detection ...................................................................... 190
4.4.10 – Maximum reference electrode voltage ......................................... 192
4.4.11 – Active cells .................................................................................. 192
4.4.12 – Grounded cells and grounded working electrodes ....................... 193
4.4.13 – Environmental conditions ............................................................ 194
4.4.14 – Temperature overload ................................................................. 194
4.4.15 – Noise ........................................................................................... 194
4.5 – Autolab PGSTAT101 and M101 information......................................... 195
4.5.1 – Front panel and cell cable connection (PGSTAT101) ...................... 195
4.5.2 – Front panel and cell cable connection (M101) ............................... 196
4.5.3 – Power up ....................................................................................... 198
4.5.4 – Connections for analog signals ...................................................... 198
4.5.5 – High stability, High speed and Ultra high speed ............................. 200
4.5.6 – RE input impedance and stability ................................................... 202
4.5.7 – Galvanostat, potentiostat and iR-compensation bandwidth ........... 202
4.5.8 – Galvanostatic operation and current range linearity ....................... 203
4.5.9 – Maximum reference electrode voltage ........................................... 204
4.5.10 – Active cells .................................................................................. 204
4.5.11 – Grounded cells ............................................................................ 205
4.5.12 – Environmental conditions ............................................................ 205
4.5.13 – Noise ........................................................................................... 205
4.6 – Autolab PGSTAT204 information .......................................................... 206
4.6.1 – Front panel and cell cable connections .......................................... 206
4.6.2 – Power up ....................................................................................... 208
4.6.3 – Connections for analog signals ...................................................... 208
4.6.4 – High stability, High speed and Ultra high speed ............................. 209
4.6.5 – RE input impedance and stability ................................................... 211
4.6.6 – Galvanostat, potentiostat and iR-compensation bandwidth ........... 211
4.6.7 – Galvanostatic operation and current range linearity ....................... 211
4.6.8 – Maximum reference electrode voltage ........................................... 214
4.6.9 – Active cells .................................................................................... 214

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4.6.10 – Grounded cells ............................................................................ 214

4.6.11 – Environmental conditions ............................................................ 214
4.6.12 – Noise ........................................................................................... 215
4.6.13 – Temperature overload ................................................................. 215
4.7 – µAutolab information ........................................................................... 216
4.7.1 – Front panel and cell cable connection ............................................ 216
4.7.2 – Power up ....................................................................................... 217
4.7.3 – Connections for analog signals ...................................................... 217
4.7.4 – High stability and High speed ........................................................ 218
4.7.5 – RE input impedance and stability ................................................... 220
4.7.6 – Galvanostat and bandwidth ........................................................... 220
4.7.7 – Galvanostatic operation and current range linearity ....................... 221
4.7.8 – Maximum reference electrode voltage ........................................... 222
4.7.9 – Active cells .................................................................................... 223
4.7.10 – Grounded cells ............................................................................ 223
4.7.11 – Environmental conditions ............................................................ 223
4.7.12 – Noise ........................................................................................... 223
4.8 – Noise considerations ............................................................................ 224
4.8.1 – Problems with the reference electrode .......................................... 224
4.8.2 – Problems with unshielded cables ................................................... 224
4.8.3 – Faraday cage ................................................................................. 224
4.8.4 – Grounding of the instrument ......................................................... 224
4.8.5 – Magnetic stirrer ............................................................................. 224
4.8.6 – Position of the cell, Autolab and accessories .................................. 224
4.8.7 – Measurements in a glove box ........................................................ 225
4.9 – Cleaning and inspection ....................................................................... 225
5 – Warranty and conformity ............................................................................ 227
5.1 – Safety practices .................................................................................... 227
5.2 – General specifications........................................................................... 228
5.3 – Warranty .............................................................................................. 229
5.4 – EU Declaration of conformity ............................................................... 231

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 NOVA Getting started

Introduction
Nova is designed to control all the Autolab potentiostat/galvanostat instruments
with a USB connection. It is the successor of the GPES/FRA software and
integrates two decades of user experience and the latest .NET software
technology.

Nova brings more power and more flexibility to the Autolab instrument, without
any hardware upgrade.

Nova is designed to answer the demands of both experienced electrochemists and

newcomers alike. Setting up an experiment, measuring data and performing data
analysis to produce publication ready graphs can be done in a few mouse clicks.

Nova is different from other electrochemical software packages. As all

electrochemical experiments are different and unique, Nova provides an innovative
and dynamic working environment, capable of adapting itself to fit your
experimental requirements.

The design of Nova is based on the latest object-oriented software architecture.

Nova is designed to give the user total control of the experimental procedure and
a complete flexibility in the setup of the experiment.

This getting started manual provides installation instructions for the Nova software
and the Autolab hardware. It also includes a quick walkthrough tutorial and a
description of the Autolab procedures. Five chapters are included in this
document:

• Chapter 1 provides installation instructions for Nova and the Autolab

• Chapter 2 describes a quick cyclic voltammetry measurement
• Chapter 3 describes the Autolab standard procedures
• Chapter 4 provides information about the Autolab hardware
• Chapter 5 provides information regarding Warranty and Conformity

Warning

Please read the Warranty and Conformity carefully before operating the
Autolab equipment.

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 NOVA Getting started

The philosophy of Nova

Nova differs from most software packages for electrochemistry.

The classic approach used in existing electrochemical applications is to code a

number of so-called Use cases or Electrochemical methods in the software. The
advantage of this approach is that it provides a specific solution for well-defined
experimental conditions. The disadvantage is that it is not possible to deviate from
the methods provided in the software. Moreover, it is not possible to integrate all
the possible electrochemical methods, since new experimental protocols are
developed on a daily basis. This means that this type of software will require
periodical updates and will necessitate significant maintenance efforts.

Figure 1 shows a typical overview of a classic, method-based application for

electrochemistry.

Method #2 Method #3
Method #1 Method #4 Method #n
CV staircase CV linear …
CV staircase LSV staircase …
with pH scan

Frequency range Amplitude

Method #5
Impedance
Automatic current ranging DC potential

Set cell
Potentiostat Set E DC Wait…
ON

Apply Set cell

Measure Z
frequency OFF

Repeat for each frequency

Figure 1 – Schematic overview of a method-based software

In a method-based application, the user chooses one of the n available methods

and defines the available parameters for the method. When the measurement
starts, the whole method is uploaded to the instrument where it is decomposed
into individual, low-level instructions. These are then executed sequentially until
the measurement is finished.

If the method required by the user is not available, the user will have to wait until
the method is implemented in a future release.

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Nova has been designed with a completely different philosophy. Rather than
implementing well defined methods in the software, Nova provides the users with
a number of basic Objects corresponding to the low-level functions of the
electrochemical instrument. These objects can be used as building blocks and can
be combined with one another according to the requirements of the user in order
to create a complete experimental method. In essence, the scientist uses Nova as a
programming language for electrochemistry, building simple or complex
procedures out of individual commands. The instructions can be combined in any
way the user sees fit. Rather than providing specific electrochemical methods to
the user, Nova uses a generic approach, in which, in principle, any method or any
task can be constructed using the available commands.

Figure 2 shows the Nova strategy, schematically.

Apply
Repeat frequency

Measure Z

Set cell
Wait

Set E

Library of individual objects Potentiostat

Frequency range Amplitude

User defined
Impedance
Automatic current ranging DC potential

Figure 2 – Schematic overview of the object-based design of Nova

The Nova approach allows the user to program an electrochemical method in the
same language used by the instrument.

This new object-based design philosophy has led to the current version of Nova.
As any task can be solved generically, the software is slightly less intuitive than a
method-based application. Depending on the complexity of the experiments, the
learning curve can be more or less long. For this reason, we advise you to carefully
study this Getting started manual as well as the User manual.

Because of the large number of possibilities provided by this application, it is not

possible to include the information required to solve each individual use case.

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A number of typical situations are explained using stand-alone tutorials (refer to

the Help menu – Tutorials). These tutorials provide practical examples.

In case of missing information, do not hesitate to contact Metrohm Autolab at the

dedicated [email protected] email address.

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Setting up Nova
1 – Nova installation
This chapter describes the steps required for the installation of NOVA and the
Autolab instrument.

1.1 – Requirements

Nova requires Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7 or Windows 8 as

operating systems in order to run properly. Minimum RAM requirement is 1 GB
and the recommended amount is 2 GB. Only the instruments 1 with a USB interface
(internal or USB interface box) are supported.

1.2 – Software installation

Warning

Leave the Autolab switched off during the installation of the software.

Insert the Nova CD-ROM in the optical drive of your computer. Open the Windows
explorer and browse the contents of the disk. Locate the Setup.exe program and
double click to install Nova on your hard drive.

Note

Installation of the .NET 4.0 framework is required in order to install Nova. If the
.NET framework is already installed on your computer, the install wizard will
directly install Nova (skip to Section 1.2.2). Otherwise you will be prompted to
accept the installation of the .NET 4.0 framework (see .NET framework
installation).

1.2.1 – .NET 4.0 framework installation 2

The Microsoft .NET Framework is a component of the Microsoft Windows

operating system. It provides a large body of pre-coded solutions to common
program requirements, and manages the execution of programs written
specifically for the framework. The .NET Framework is a key Microsoft offering,
and is intended to be used by most new applications created for the Windows
platform.

1
The following hardware is not supported in NOVA: µAutolab type I and PSTAT10, instruments
with ADC124, DAC124 or DAC168 and FRA modules (1st generation FRA). Contact you Autolab
distributor for more information.
2
Please make sure that your copy of Windows has been updated to the latest version.

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If the .NET framework 4.0 installation is required, the following window will be
displayed (see Figure 1.1). This package is provided by Microsoft and you can read
the license agreement by clicking the View EULA for printing button.

Figure 1.1 – The .NET framework installation wizard

The installation of the .NET framework can take some time. A progress bar is
displayed during the installation (see Figure 1.2).

Figure 1.2 – Installing the .NET framework 4.0

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When the .NET framework is installed, the installation of Nova will continue.

1.2.2 – Nova installation

If the .NET framework is correctly installed on your computer, the installation

wizard starts the setup of Nova (see Figure 1.3).

Figure 1.3 – The Nova Setup wizard

Click the button to continue the installation. You will be prompted to

enter the location of the installation folder or to validate the default setting (see
Figure 1.4). Press the button to change the installation folder or press
the Next button to accept the default.

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Figure 1.4 – Setting the installation folder

Click the button to confirm the installation of Nova. A progress bar will be
displayed during the installation. When the software setup is completed, the
Installation Complete window will appear (see Figure 1.5). Click the
button to finish the installation process.

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Figure 1.5 – Installation finished

A shortcut to Nova will be added to your desktop or on the Windows 8 menu.

1.2.3 – USB Drivers installation

After Nova has been successfully installed, connect the Autolab instrument to the
computer using an available USB port. Switch on the instrument. Windows will
attempt to find a suitable driver for the instrument. Since the Autolab is not
automatically recognized by Windows, no drivers will be installed at this point.

Start the Autolab Driver manager application by using the shortcut provided in the
Start menu (All Programs – Autolab – Tools – Driver manager 1.10) or by using the
shortcut tile on the Windows 8 Menu (see Figure 1.6).

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Figure 1.6 – Use the shortcut tile to start the Driver Manager application

This will start the Driver Manager application (see Figure 1.7).

Figure 1.7 – The driver manager application

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The Driver Manager can be used at any time to select the driver to use to control
the Autolab.

Two drivers are available:

• NOVA only (recommended setup): this is the latest driver for the Autolab,
allowing up to 16 instruments to be connected to the computer and faster
data transfer. This driver is compatible with 64 Bit versions of Windows.
• GPES compatible: this is an older driver version. No further developments
are planned for this driver. The maximum number of devices connected to
the same computer is 8. Data transfer is slower than with the NOVA only
driver. This driver is only compatible with 32 Bit versions of Windows.

Warning

The GPES compatible driver is not available on a 64 Bit version of Windows.

Warning

The GPES and FRA software only work using the GPES compatible driver.

To install one of the drivers, click either one of the buttons in the Driver manager
(see Figure 1.8).

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Figure 1.8 – Click one of the two buttons of the Driver Manager to install the driver

Note

The NOVA only driver should be preferably installed.

A message will be displayed, as shown in Figure 1.9.

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Figure 1.9 – Click the button to install the driver software

When the driver installation is completed, a message will be displayed (see Figure
1.10).

Figure 1.10 – A message is displayed when the installation of the driver is finished

1.2.4 – GPES/FRA and older NOVA versions compatibility 3

The driver installation description provided in the previous section installs NOVA
only drivers on the computer. These drivers are not compatible with the old
Autolab GPES or FRA software and with previous versions of NOVA (NOVA 1.6
and older).

Note

If no connection can be established with the Autolab when using GPES/FRA or

older versions of NOVA, check the selected driver using the Autolab Driver
Manager.

If necessary, it is possible to use the GPES compatible driver. This driver can be
selected at any time using the Autolab Driver Manager installed on the computer.

3
Read this section carefully if you are using GPES/FRA or older versions of NOVA on the same
computer.

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The Driver Manager is displayed in Figure 1.11. It can be used at any time to select
the driver to use to control the Autolab.

Figure 1.11 – The Autolab Driver Manager can be used to switch drivers

Clicking the GPES compatible button will trigger the installation of the GPES
compatible driver for the connected instrument.

Warning

The GPES compatible driver is not available on a 64 Bit version of Windows.

A warning will be displayed indicating that the driver cannot be verified (see Figure
1.12).

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Figure 1.12 – A warning is provided when the GPES compatible driver is installed

Select the Install this driver software anyway option to proceed with the
installation. At the end of the installation, a message will be displayed indicating
that the driver has been successfully installed (see Figure 1.13).

Figure 1.13 – A message is displayed at the end of the driver update process

Note

The status of the drivers used to control the connected devices, displayed at the
bottom of the driver manager window, is updated automatically (see Figure
1.14).

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Figure 1.14 – The Driver Manager displays the driver information at the bottom of the
window

1.2.5 – Multiple instruments

When the Driver Manager is used on a computer connected to multiple Autolab

devices, the drivers will be updated for all the instruments. For example, Figure
1.15 shows that two instruments are connected to the computer. One device is
using the NOVA only driver, while the other one is using the GPES compatible
driver.

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Figure 1.15 – Using the Driver Manager in combination with multiple instruments will update
the driver for all the instruments

Clicking either one of the two buttons in the Driver Manager will update the
driver, for both instruments, to NOVA only or GPES compatible (depending on the
selected driver). In Figure 1.16 all the connected instruments have been updated
to NOVA only driver.

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Figure 1.16 – Updating the driver for all the connected instruments

Note

When more than 8 instruments are connected to the same computer through
the GPES compatible driver, NOVA will initialize the first 8 instruments and will
provide a connection error message in the user log for the remaining
instruments (see Figure 1.17).

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Figure 1.17 - Error messages are provided when more than 8 instruments are connected to
the same computer using the GPES compatible driver

The available instruments will be selected randomly depending on the initialization

speed of each Autolab. The excess instruments will not be available for
measurements.

Note

More information on the control of multiple instruments in NOVA can be found

in the Multi Autolab tutorial, available from the Help menu.

1.3 – Connection to the instrument(s)

When the installation of Nova is finished, start the software by double clicking on
the Nova shortcut located on the desktop or by clicking the Nova shortcut located
in the Start menu (Start – All Programs – Autolab – Nova) or by using the shortcut
tile on the Windows 8 Menu (see Figure 1.18).

Figure 1.18 – Use the shortcut tile to start NOVA

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The software will start and will initiate communication with all the connected
instruments (see Figure 1.19).

Note

The upload dialog indicates the USB driver used to control the instrument (GPES
for the GPES compatible driver and NOVA for the Nova only driver). Please refer
to Section 1.2.5 for more information on the two drivers that can be used to
control the Autolab.

Figure 1.19 – Autolab initialization (top: NOVA only driver in use, bottom: finished
initialization)

The initialization can take a few seconds. When it is completed, the serial number
of the connected instrument should be displayed, together with the version of the
control software (see Figure 1.19).

During the initialization of the instruments, Nova will try to automatically

configure each device by detecting the installed modules and type of instrument.
This automatic configuration will be triggered whenever an instrument is
connected for the very first time. The information about this process is provided in
the User log, after initialization (see Figure 1.20).

Figure 1.20 – Nova creates the hardware setup automatically for instruments connected the
first time

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Note

Not all the modules and instruments can be detected automatically. It is always
recommended to check the hardware setup after initialization to verify
configuration (see Section 1.3.3).

Note

If the computer is connected to the internet, NOVA will automatically check if a

new version is available for download on the Metrohm Autolab website.

1.3.1 – Connection and identification of individual instruments

Individual instruments 4 connected to the computer are identified by a unique serial

number after the initialization process. Depending on the type of instrument and
the configuration, several identification strategies can be encountered.

Instruments with serial number beginning with AUT9 or with µ2AUT7, connected
through an external USB interface, are identified by the serial number of the
interface, USB7XXXX. Instruments with an internal USB interface, or instruments
with serial number beginning with AUT7 connected through an external USB
interface, are identified by their own serial number.

Table 1.1 shows an overview of different situations that can be encountered

during the initialization of an instrument.

Instrument serial number USB serial number Identified as

AUT960512 USB70128 USB70128
AUT71024 USB70256 AUT71024
AUT72048 Internal AUT72048
AUT84096 Internal AUT84096
µ2AUT70256 USB70512 USB70512
µ3AUT70384 Internal µ3AUT70384
AUT40064 Internal AUT40064
AUT50450 Internal AUT50450

Table 1.1 – Autolab and USB interface serial number identification examples

4
This does not apply to the Multi Autolab cabinet, see Section 1.3.2 for more information.

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1.3.2 – Connection and identification of the Multi Autolab

M101 modules installed in a Multi Autolab cabinet 5 connected to the computer

are identified by a unique composite serial number after the initialization process.
The serial number depends on the position of each module in the cabinet, as
shown in Figure 1.21.

Figure 1.21 – Overview of the Multi Autolab with M101 modules (the module bay labels are
indicated by the arrows)

Positions 1 to 6 are known as Parent positions. Positions A to F are daughter

positions. Each M101 module in the cabinet is identified by a unique serial number
defined by the position of the module and the serial number of the Multi Autolab
cabinet 6 (see Table 1.2).

Instrument serial number USB serial number Identified as

MAC80001#1 – 6
MAC80001 Internal
(Parent positions)
MAC80001#A – F
MAC80001 Internal
(Daughter positions)

Table 1.2 – Multi Autolab serial number identification example

5
This applies to the Multi Autolab cabinet only, see Section 1.3.1 for more information on the
other instruments.
6
Please refer to the Multi Autolab tutorial, available from the Help menu, for more information.

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1.3.3 – Hardware setup

After the software has started, you should see the following screen, which is
called the Setup view (see Figure 1.22).

Figure 1.22 – The Setup view of Nova

Locate the Tools menu in the toolbar and select the Hardware setup from the
menu (see Figure 1.22). This will open the Hardware setup window. Check the
boxes that correspond to your hardware configuration (see Figure 1.23).

Note

This version of Nova supports all the Autolab instruments (except the µAutolab
type I and the PSTAT10) with a USB interface, either internal or through a USB
interface box. All the Autolab modules are supported, except the ADC124,
DAC124, DAC168 and the first generation FRA.

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Figure 1.23 – The hardware setup in Nova

Note

Adjust the Power Supply Frequency according to your regional settings (50 Hz,
60 Hz).

Click the OK button to close the hardware setup. You will be prompted to confirm
the hardware setup (see Figure 1.24).

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Figure 1.24 – Confirmation of the hardware setup

Note

The hardware setup is saved on the computer using the identifying serial
number of the instrument. This hardware configuration will be used
automatically whenever the instrument is connected to the computer.

1.4 – FRA2 calibration file

In order to perform electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements, the

FRA2 module must be installed and the hardware setup in NOVA must be setup
accordingly (see Figure 1.23).

Each FRA2 module is calibrated in order to operate correctly inside the Autolab
instrument. Before the FRA2 can be used for impedance measurements, the
calibration file must be added to the hardware configuration in NOVA.

Note

When NOVA is installed from the CD delivered with a new instrument, the
FRA2 calibration file is copied onto the computer automatically, if applicable.
This also applies when upgrading an existing NOVA version installed on the
computer.

If the FRA2 calibration data is missing, a warning message will be displayed in the
user log after starting NOVA (see Figure 1.25).

Figure 1.25 – A warning is displayed in the user log when the FRA calibration file is missing

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In this case, the FRA2 calibration file must be imported manually. This file
(fra2cal.ini) can be found in two different locations:

• If the GPES/FRA software is already installed on the computer, the

fra2cal.ini file can be found in the C:\autolab folder.
• Alternatively, the fra2cal.ini file can be found on the GPES/FRA 4.9
installation CD matching the serial number of the instrument 7, in the
D:\install\disk1 folder.

Warning

If the fra2cal.ini file cannot be located, contact your local distributor (serial
number of the instrument required).

To import the FRA2 calibration file, select the Hardware setup from the Tools
menu. In the Hardware setup window, click the button and locate
the file fra2cal.ini (see Figure 1.26). Browse to the folder containing the calibration
file and click the Open button to load the file.

Figure 1.26 – Import the FRA2 calibration file

7
The serial number of the instrument can be found on label(s) attached to the cell cables or on the
back panel of the instrument.

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You will be prompted to define the type of instrument for which the fra2cal.ini file
is intended (see Figure 1.27).

Figure 1.27 – Selecting the instrument type for the fra2cal.ini file

Click the OK button to confirm the selection of the instrument 8 and the OK button
in the Nova options window to complete the installation of the FRA2 module
calibration file.

Note

If a calibration file was previously imported in Nova, an overwrite warning will

be displayed. Click the Yes button to confirm the replacement of the file (see
Figure 1.28).

Figure 1.28 – Replacement of a previously defined fra2cal.ini file

8
See the front panel of the instrument.

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Note

The FRA2 calibration file is saved in the hardware setup file of the connected
instrument. This calibration data will be automatically whenever the instrument
is connected to the computer.

Warning

Depending of the type of FRA2 module, the FRA offset DAC range needs to be
adjusted to the correct value. FRA2 modules labeled FRA2 V10 on the front
panel must be set to 10V offset DAC range. FRA2 modules labeled FRA2 on the
front panel must be set to 5V (see Figure 1.36). This does not apply to FRA2
modules installed in the µAutolab type III, for which this field is greyed out.

Note

Some FRA2 modules, originally fitted with a 5V range have been modified to
the 10V range for special applications.

Figure 1.29 – Adjusting the FRA offset DAC range

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Warning

For the FRA2 module make sure that the FRA2 offset DAC range property is
set properly in the hardware setup. For FRA2 modules, the correct value is 5 V.
For FRA2.V10 modules, the correct value is 10 V. Failure to set this value
properly may result in faulty data at frequencies of 25 Hz and lower (refer to
front panel labels of the FRA2 module on the instrument).

1.5 – Diagnostics

Nova includes a diagnostics tool that can be used to test the Autolab instrument.
This tool is provided as a standalone application and can be accessed from the
start menu, in the Autolab group (Start menu – All programs – Autolab – Tools).

The diagnostics tool can be used to troubleshoot an instrument or perform

individual tests to verify the correct operation of the instrument. Depending on the
instrument type, the following items are required:

• µAutolab type II, µAutolab type III and µAutolab type III/FRA2: the
standard Autolab dummy cell. For the diagnostics test, the circuit (a) is
used.
• PGSTAT101 and M101 module: the internal dummy cell is used during
the test, no additional items are required.
• PGSTAT204: the standard Autolab dummy cell. For the diagnostics test,
the circuit (a) is used.
• Other PGSTATs: the standard Autolab dummy cell and a 50 cm BNC cable.
For the diagnostics test, the circuit (a) is used. The BNC cable must be
connected between the ADC164 channel 2 and the DAC164 channel 2 on
the front panel of the instrument 9.

Note

The PGSTAT302F must be tested in normal mode.

9
In the case of a PGSTAT with serial number not starting with AUT7 or AUT8, connect the BNC
cable between DAC channel 4 and ADC channel 4.

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The Diagnostics application supports multiple Autolab instruments. When the

application starts it detects all available instruments connected to the computer
(see Figure 1.30).

Figure 1.30 – The Diagnostics application automatically scans for all the connected
instruments

If more than one instrument is detected, a selection menu is displayed before the
Diagnostics starts (see Figure 1.31).

Figure 1.31 – A selection menu is displayed if more than one instrument is detected

The test can only be performed on a single instrument at a time. Select the
instrument that needs to be tested and click the button to proceed.

When the diagnostics application is started with a Multi Autolab connected, the
application will search for the available M101 modules installed in the Multi
Autolab and will list the available modules as shown in Figure 1.32.

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Figure 1.32 – A selection menu identifying the M101 modules by position is displayed when
a Multi Autolab is detected by the diagnostics application

The test can only be performed on one channel at a time. Select the M101 module
that needs to be tested and click the OK button to proceed.

Note

Instruments with serial number beginning with AUT9 or with µ2AUT7,

connected through an external USB interface, are identified by the serial
number of the interface, USB7XXXX (see Figure 1.31). Instruments with an
internal USB interface, or instruments with serial number beginning with AUT7
connected through an external USB interface, are identified by their own serial
number.

When the application is ready, a series of tests can be performed on the selected
instrument. In order to perform the tests properly, the hardware setup for the
connected instrument must be defined. Select the Hardware option from the
Select menu to define or verify the hardware configuration (see Figure 1.33).

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Figure 1.33 – Adjusting the hardware setup for the connected instrument (1/2)

The hardware setup window will be displayed. Adjust the hardware configuration
for the connected instrument and press OK to save the changes.

Note

A specific hardware setup file is created and stored on the computer for each
instrument.

• If the hardware setup for the connected instrument has already been
defined in NOVA or in a previous diagnostics test, the hardware
configuration file for the instrument will be automatically recovered and no
adjustments will be necessary.
• If no hardware setup file is found for the connected instrument, the default
setup is used (default: PGSTAT302N, no additional modules).

Pressing the start button will initiate all the selected tests. A visual reminder will be
displayed at the beginning of the test, illustrating the connections required for the
test (see Figure 1.34).

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Figure 1.34 – A visual reminder is shown at the beginning of the Diagnostics test

During the test, the progress will be displayed and a successful test will be
indicated by a green symbol (see Figure 1.35).

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Figure 1.35 – The diagnostics report after all the tests have been performed successfully

If one or more of the tests fails, a red symbol will be used to indicate which test
failed and what the problem is. Figure 1.36 shows the output of the diagnostics
tool for a failed PSTAT and GSTAT test.

Figure 1.36 – A failed test will be indicated in the diagnostics tool

It is possible to print the test report or to save it as a text file by using the File
menu and selecting the appropriate action (see Figure 1.37).

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Figure 1.37 – It is possible to save or print the diagnostics report

Note

At the end of the test, it is possible to perform the diagnostics test on another
device, if applicable. Use the Select instrument option from the Edit menu to
restart the instrument detection (see Figure 1.38). The list of available devices
will be displayed after the detection process is finished (see Figure 1.30 and
Figure 1.31).

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Figure 1.38 – It is possible to restart the instrument detection at the end of the test to
diagnose another device

When a FI20-Integrator 10 is specified in the Hardware setup (for instruments with

a FI20 module or an on-board integrator), a message will be displayed at the end
of the Integrator test (see Figure 1.39).

Figure 1.39 – The value of the measured Integrator calibration factor is displayed at the end
of the integrator test (left: calibration factor different from stored value, right: calibration
factor unchanged)

Click OK to save the measured value in the hardware setup file of the instrument.

10
The determination of the integrator calibration factor does not replace the full test of the
module. Please refer to Sections 1.6.9-1.6.11 or to the Module test document, available from the
Help menu for more information on the complete test of the FI20-Integrator.

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1.5.1 – Autolab Firmware Update

For some instruments, a firmware update may be required. If this is the case of the
connected instrument, a message will be displayed during the Diagnostics test (see
Figure 1.40).

During Diagnostics, an update message will be displayed if the outdated firmware

is detected. Clicking the Yes button when prompted will silently update the
firmware (see Figure 1.40).

Figure 1.40 – An upgrade message is displayed when the outdated firmware is detected

The firmware update is permanent. The Firmware Update window will close
automatically at the end of the update and the diagnostics test will continue.

Important

Do not switch off the instrument or disconnect the instrument during the
firmware update since this will damage the instrument.

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1.6 – Module test in NOVA

Nova includes a number of procedures designed to verify the basic functionality of

the different hardware modules installed in the instrument. These tests can be
performed at any time using the Autolab dummy cell 11.

These procedures are located in the Module test database located in the
C:\Program Files\Metrohm Autolab\Nova 1.10\Shared DataBases\ folder. To
use these procedures, define the location of the Module test folder as the
Standard database, using the Database manager, available from the Tools menu
(see Figure 1.41).

Figure 1.41 – Loading the Module test database

A total of 25 procedures are provided in the Module test database (see Figure
1.42).

11
Except for the Autolab PGSTAT101, the Autolab M101 module and the Autolab EQCM module.

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Figure 1.42 – The Module test procedures

The first two procedures (PGSTAT C1 calibration and PGSTAT C2 calibration) are
special procedures used to determine the C1 and C2 factors required for the
operation of the FRA32M or the FRA2 module in combination with the Autolab.
These procedures are intended to be used under the experimental conditions
described in the module installation documentation. Please refer to Section 1.6.18
for more information.

The other 23 procedures can be used at any time to test the different hardware
modules installed in the instrument.

This section provides a short description of the test procedures included in the
Hardware test database.

Note

Make sure that the hardware setup is defined correctly (see Section 1.3).

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1.6.1 – Test of the Autolab PGSTAT

1.6.1.1 – Test of the Autolab PGSTAT128N, 302N, 302F (normal mode), 100N,
204 and µAutolab III

This simple test is designed to verify the basic functionality of the potentiostat 12. It
can be used to test all the Autolab PGSTAT instruments except the Autolab
PGSTAT101, the Autolab M101 potentiostat/galvanostat module 13 and the
PGSTAT302F in normal mode 14.

Load the TestCV procedure from the Standards database, connect dummy cell (a)
and press the start button (see Figure 1.43).

C1 1µF
R2
WE(+S)
CE
R4 (a)
100Ω

1MΩ

CE C2 1µF WE S
R1
WE(+S)
RE
R3 (b)
100Ω

1MΩ
R7
10kΩ
RE
C3 1µF

WE(+S) WE(+S)
(e) R5 (c)

1kΩ

C4 R6
WE(+S)
(d)
1µF 5kΩ

DUMMY CELL2

Figure 1.43 – The TestCV procedure requires connection to the dummy cell (a)

12
This test is also used to test earlier Autolab instruments (PGSTAT10, 20, 12, 30, 302, 100) and
the µAutolabII.
13
A specific test for the PGSTAT101 and the M101 is provided (see section 1.6.1.2).
14
A specific test for the PGSTAT302F in floating mode is provided (see section 1.6.1.3).

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A message will be displayed when the measurement starts (see Figure 1.44).

Figure 1.44 – A message is displayed at the beginning of the measurement

The test uses the cyclic voltammetry staircase method and performs a single
potential scan starting from 0 V, between 1 V and -1V. At the end of the
measurement, switch to the Analysis view and load the data for evaluation.

The data set includes three groups of data points (see Figure 1.45).

Figure 1.45 – The data obtained with the TestCV procedure

The first group, located under TestCV (Measured data) contains the measured
curve and the data after baseline correction (see Figure 1.46).

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Figure 1.46 – The data points recorded during the TestCV measurement (left) and the data
points after linear baseline correction (right)

The difference between the maxima observed in the residual current plot should
be < 40 nA.

The second group, located under TestCV (Reference data) contains data from a
reference measurement. This data can be used for comparison with the data
points obtained during the test. Two reference curves are provided: the i vs E plot
and the Residual plot after baseline correction.

The third group, located under Limits, contains the absolute maximum and
minimum limit allowed for the residual current calculated from the measured data
points.

Figure 1.47 shows an overlay of the residual current calculated from the measured
data, the residual current plot provided as reference data and the absolute limits
allowed for the residual current.

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Figure 1.47 – An overlay of the residual current obtained from the measured data (blue
curve), the residual current from the reference data (red curve) and the absolute limits (green
lines)

1.6.1.2 – Test of the Autolab PGSTAT101 and M101

This simple test is designed to verify the basic functionality of the Autolab
PGSTAT101 and the Autolab M101 potentiostat/galvanostat module 15.

Load the TestCV PGSTAT101 procedure from the Standards database. This test
uses the internal dummy cell of the instrument. Connect the CE and the RE
electrode leads and the WE and S from the cell cable as shown in Figure 1.48 and
press the start button.

15
For testing the PGSTAT302F in floating mode please refer to section 1.6.1.3. For testing all the
other Autolab instruments, please refer to section 1.6.1.1.

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CE

S
WE
RE

Figure 1.48 – The connections required for the PGSTAT101 test

A warning message, indicating that the internal dummy cell is used, will be shown
during validation (see Figure 1.49). This warning is provided as a reminder and the
OK button can be clicked to proceed with the measurement.

Figure 1.49 – A warning message is shown during validation

A message will be displayed when the measurement starts (see Figure 1.50).

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Figure 1.50 – A message is displayed at the beginning of the measurement

The test uses the cyclic voltammetry staircase method and performs a single
potential scan starting from 0 V, between 1 V and -1V. At the end of the
measurement, switch to the Analysis view and load the data for evaluation.

The data set includes two groups of data points (see Figure 1.51).

Figure 1.51 – The data obtained with the TestCV PGSTAT101 procedure

The first group contains the measured data points. The other group contains data
points from a reference measurement. This data can be used for comparison with
the data points obtained during the test.

The measured data should be similar to the reference data provided for
comparison, as shown in Figure 1.52.

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Figure 1.52 – The expected result of the TestCV PGSTAT101 procedure

The test is successful if the measured data can be compared to the reference data.

1.6.1.3 – Test of the Autolab PGSTAT302F in floating mode

This simple test is designed to verify the basic functionality of the Autolab
PGSTAT302F in floating mode only 16.

Load the TestCV PGSTAT302F procedure from the Standards database, connect
dummy cell (a) as shown in Figure 1.53 and press the start button.

16
For testing the PGSTAT101 and the M101 module, please refer to Section 1.6.1.2. For testing all
the other Autolab instruments, including the PGSTAT302F in normal mode, please refer to Section
1.6.1.1.

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C1 1µF
R2
WE(+S)
CE
R4 (a)
100Ω

1MΩ

CE WE S
C2 1µF
R1
WE(+S)
RE
R3 (b)
100Ω

1MΩ
R7
RE 10kΩ
C3 1µF

WE(+S) WE(+S)
(e) R5 (c)

1kΩ

C4 R6
WE(+S)
(d)
1µF 5kΩ

DUMMY CELL2

Figure 1.53 – The connections to the dummy cell (a) required to test the PGSTAT302F in
floating mode

A message will be displayed when the measurement starts (see Figure 1.54).

Figure 1.54 – A message is displayed at the beginning of the measurement

The test uses the cyclic voltammetry staircase method and performs a single
potential scan starting from 0 V, between 1 V and -1V. At the end of the
measurement, switch to the Analysis view and load the data for evaluation.

The data set includes three groups of data points (see Figure 1.55).

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Figure 1.55 – The data obtained with the TestCV procedure

The first group, located under TestCV PGSTAT302F (Measured data) contains the
measured curve and the data after baseline correction.

The second group, located under TestCV PGSTAT302F (Reference data) contains
data from a reference measurement. This data can be used for comparison with
the data points obtained during the test. Two reference curves are provided: the i
vs E plot and the Residual plot after baseline correction.

The third group, located under Limits, contains the absolute maximum and
minimum limit allowed for the residual current calculated from the measured data
points.

Figure 1.56 shows an overlay of the residual current calculated from the measured
data, the residual current plot provided as reference data and the absolute limits
allowed for the residual current.

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Figure 1.56 – An overlay of the residual current obtained from the measured data (blue
curve), the residual current from the reference data (red curve) and the absolute limits (green
lines)

1.6.2 – Test of the ADC750 or the ADC10M

Two procedures, TestADC750 and TestADC10M can be used to test the correct
functionality of the fast sampling ADC module (ADC750 or ADC10M, respectively).

Load the TestADC750 or the TestADC10M procedure depending on the module

to test from the Standards database, connect dummy cell (c) and press the start
button.

A message will be displayed when the measurement starts (see Figure 1.57).

Figure 1.57 – A message is displayed at the beginning of the measurement

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Note

No data points can be shown real time during measurements with the fast-
sampling ADC module.

The test uses the chrono amperometry high speed method and performs a total of
four potential steps. At the end of the measurement, switch to the Analysis view
and load the data for evaluation.

The data set includes two groups of data points (see Figure 1.58).

Figure 1.58 – The data obtained with the TestADC10M procedure

Note

The data for the TestADC750 is displayed in a similar way.

The first group, located under TestADC10M (Measured data) contains the
measured current and measured potential plotted versus corrected time. The
second group contains data from a reference measurement. This data can be used
for comparison with the data points obtained during the test.

The measured data should be similar to the reference data provided for
comparison as shown in Figure 1.59.

Note

Small deviation can be observed between the measured data points and the
reference data because of the tolerance of the capacitance included in the
dummy cell (± 5%).

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Figure 1.59 – The expected result of the TestADC10M or the TestADC750 procedure (red
curve: WE(1).Current, brown curve: WE(1).Potential)

The test is successful if the measured data can be compared to the reference data.

1.6.3 – Test of BA

The TestBA procedure can be used to test the correct functionality of the BA
module. The BA module is a dual mode module that works both as a
bipotentiostat and as a scanning bipotentiostat.

Load the TestBA procedure, connect WE(1) to dummy cell (a) and WE(2) to
dummy cell (b) as shown in Figure 1.60 and press the start button.

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C1 1µF
R2
WE(+S)
CE
R4 (a)
100Ω

1MΩ

CE C2 1µF WE S
R1
WE(+S)
RE
R3 (b)
100Ω

1MΩ
R7
10kΩ
RE WE2
C3 1µF

WE(+S) WE(+S)
(e) R5 (c)

1kΩ

C4 R6
WE(+S)
(d)
1µF 5kΩ

DUMMY CELL2

Figure 1.60 – Overview of the connections to the dummy cell required for the TestBA,
TestBIPOT and TestARRAY procedures

A message will be displayed when the measurement starts.

Note

Two measurements are performed during the test.

The test uses the cyclic voltammetry staircase method and performs a total of two
potential scans. During the first scan, the BA is set to Bipotentiostat mode
(potential of WE(2) is expressed relative to the potential of the reference
electrode). During the second scan, the BA is set to scanning bipotentiostat mode
(potential of WE(2) is expressed relative to the potential of WE(1)). In both
measurements, the offset potential used for WE(2) is 1 V.

At the end of the measurement, switch to the Analysis view and load the data for
evaluation.

The data set includes four groups of data points (see Figure 1.61).

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Figure 1.61 – The data obtained with the TestBA procedure

The first two groups contain the measured data points for the WE(2).Current in
Bipot mode and in Scanning Bipot mode. The other two groups contain data
points for the WE(2).Current from a reference measurement. This data can be used
for comparison with the data points obtained during the test.

The measured data should be similar to the reference data provided for
comparison as shown in Figure 1.62.

Figure 1.62 – The expected result of the TestBA procedure (red curve: WE(2).Current (Bipot
mode), brown curve: WE(2).Current (Scanning Bipot mode))

The test is successful if the measured data can be compared to the reference data.

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1.6.4 – Test of BIPOT

The TestBIPOT procedure can be used to test the correct functionality of the BIPOT
module.

Load the TestBIPOT procedure, connect WE(1) to dummy cell (a) and WE(2) to
dummy cell (b) as shown in Figure 1.60 and press the start button.

A message will be displayed when the measurement starts. The test uses the cyclic
voltammetry staircase method and performs a single potential scan. During this
scan the potential of the WE(2) is controlled with respect to the potential of the
reference electrode, with a potential offset of 1 V.

At the end of the measurement, switch to the Analysis view and load the data for
evaluation.

The data set includes two groups of data points (see Figure 1.63).

Figure 1.63 – The data obtained with the TestBIPOT procedure

The first group contains the measured data points. The other group contains data
points for the WE(2).Current from a reference measurement. This data can be used
for comparison with the data points obtained during the test.

The measured data should be similar to the reference data provided for
comparison as shown in Figure 1.64.

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Figure 1.64 – The expected result of the TestBIPOT procedure

The test is successful if the measured data can be compared to the reference data.

1.6.5 – Test of ARRAY

The TestARRAY procedure can be used to test the correct functionality of the
ARRAY module 17.

Load the TestARRAY procedure, connect WE(1) to dummy cell (a) and WE(2) to
dummy cell (b) as shown in Figure 1.60 and press the start button.

A message will be displayed when the measurement starts. The test uses the cyclic
voltammetry staircase method and performs a single potential scan. During this
scan the potential of the WE(2) is controlled with respect to the potential of
WE(1), with a potential offset of 1 V.

At the end of the measurement, switch to the Analysis view and load the data for
evaluation.

17
If the BIPOT module is equipped with a switch on the front panel of the instrument, the
TestBIPOT can be used to test the bipotentiostat mode and the TestARRAY can be used to test the
scanning bipotentiostat mode.

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The data set includes two groups of data points (see Figure 1.65).

Figure 1.65 – The data obtained with the TestARRAY procedure

The first group contains the measured data points. The other group contains data
points for the WE(2).Current from a reference measurement. This data can be used
for comparison with the data points obtained during the test.

The measured data should be similar to the reference data provided for
comparison as shown in Figure 1.66.

Figure 1.66 – The expected result of the TestARRAY procedure

The test is successful if the measured data can be compared to the reference data.

1.6.6 – Test of the Booster10A and the Booster20A

The TestBooster10A and TestBooster20A procedures can be used to test the

correct functionality of the Booster10A and Booster20A, respectively. Before these
tests can be performed, make sure that the hardware setup is defined properly
and that the Booster is installed correctly.

Load the TestBooster10A or TestBooster20A procedure depending on the type

of Booster. Connect the PGSTAT and the Booster to the special booster test cell.
Press the start button to begin the measurement.

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A message will be displayed when the measurement starts. The test uses the cyclic
voltammetry staircase method and performs a single potential scan. During this
scan the potential of the working electrode is scanning between -1 V and 1 V.

At the end of the measurement, switch to the Analysis view and load the data for
evaluation.

The data set includes two groups of data points (see Figure 1.67).

Figure 1.67 – The data obtained with the TestBooster10A procedure

Note

The data for the TestBooster20A is displayed in a similar way.

The first group contains the measured data points. The other group contains data
points from a reference measurement. This data can be used for comparison with
the data points obtained during the test.

The measured data should be similar to the reference data provided for
comparison as shown in Figure 1.68.

Note

Small deviation can be observed between the measured data points and the
reference data because of the tolerance of the resistance included in the special
booster test cell (± 5%).

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Figure 1.68 – The expected result of the TestBooster10A procedure (left) and the
TestBooster20A procedure (right)

The test is successful if the measured data can be compared to the reference data.

1.6.7 – Test of ECD

The TestECD procedure can be used to test the correct functionality of the ECD
module.

Load the TestECD procedure, connect WE(1) to dummy cell (a) and press the start
button.

A message will be displayed when the measurement starts. The test uses the cyclic
voltammetry staircase method and performs a single potential scan. During this
scan the potential of the working electrode is scanning between -1 V and 1 V.

At the end of the measurement, switch to the Analysis view and load the data for
evaluation.

The data set includes two groups of data points (see Figure 1.69).

Figure 1.69 – The data obtained with the TestECD procedure

The first group contains the measured data points. The other group contains data
points from a reference measurement. This data can be used for comparison with
the data points obtained during the test.

The measured data should be similar to the reference data provided for
comparison as shown in Figure 1.70.

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Figure 1.70 – The expected result of the TestECD procedure

The test is successful if the measured data can be compared to the reference data.

1.6.8 – Test of ECN

The TestECN procedure can be used to test the correct functionality of the ECN
module.

Load the TestECN procedure, connect the ECN cable to the --> E input of the ECN
module. Connect the red plug of the ECN cable to dummy cell (a). Connect the
black plug of the ECN cable to the CE connector of the dummy cell. Connect the
RE, CE and S and WE from the PGSTAT to dummy cell (a) (see Figure 1.71).

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To  E ECN To  E ECN

C1 1µF
R2
WE(+S)
CE
R4 (a)
100Ω

1MΩ
CE S WE
C2 1µF
R1
WE(+S)
RE
R3 (b)
100Ω

1MΩ
R7
RE 10kΩ
C3 1µF

WE(+S) WE(+S)
(e) R5 (c)

1kΩ

C4 R6
WE(+S)
(d)
1µF 5kΩ

DUMMY CELL2

Figure 1.71 – Overview of the connections to the dummy cell required for the TestECN
procedure

Press the start button to start the measurement. A message will be displayed
when the measurement starts. The test uses the cyclic voltammetry staircase
method and performs a single potential scan. During this scan the potential of the
working electrode is scanning between -1 V and 1 V. The potential between the
counter electrode and the working electrode is recorded by the ECN module.

At the end of the measurement, switch to the Analysis view and load the data for
evaluation.

The data set includes two groups of data points (see Figure 1.72).

Figure 1.72 – The data obtained with the TestECN procedure

The first group contains the measured data points. The other group contains data
points from a reference measurement. This data can be used for comparison with
the data points obtained during the test.

The measured data should be similar to the reference data provided for
comparison as shown in Figure 1.73.

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Figure 1.73 – The expected result of the TestECN procedure

The test is successful if the measured data can be compared to the reference data.

1.6.9 – Test of FI20-Filter

The TestFI20-Filter procedure can be used to test the correct functionality of the
filter circuit of the FI20-Filter module.

Load the TestFI20-Filter procedure, connect dummy cell (a) and press the start
button.

A message will be displayed when the measurement starts. The test uses the cyclic
voltammetry staircase method and performs a single potential scan. During this
scan the potential of the working electrode is scanning between -1 V and 1 V.
During this measurement, the filter is switched on and a filter time-constant of 0.1
s is used.

At the end of the measurement, switch to the Analysis view and load the data for
evaluation.

The data set includes two groups of data points (see Figure 1.74).

Figure 1.74 – The data obtained with the TestFI20-Filter procedure

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The first group contains the measured data points. The other group contains data
points from a reference measurement. This data can be used for comparison with
the data points obtained during the test.

The measured data should be similar to the reference data provided for
comparison as shown in Figure 1.75.

Figure 1.75 – The expected result of the TestFI20-Filter procedure

The test is successful if the measured data can be compared to the reference data.

1.6.10 – Test of FI20-Integrator

The TestFI20-Integrator procedure can be used to test the correct functionality of

the integrator circuit of the FI20-Integrator module for the Autolab PGSTAT series
(except the PGSTAT101 for which a specific test is provided, see Section 1.6.11)
and the µAutolab II and III.

Note

The FI20-Integrator needs to be properly calibrated before the test. Integrator

calibration is performed in the Diagnostics application. Please refer to
Section 1.5 of the Getting Started manual or the FI20 tutorial for more
information.

Load the TestFI20-Integrator procedure, connect dummy cell (a) and press the
start button.

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A message will be displayed when the measurement starts. The test uses the cyclic
voltammetry current integration staircase method and performs a single potential
scan. During this scan the potential of the working electrode is scanning between
-1 V and 1 V. During this measurement, an integration time-constant of 0.01 s is
used.

At the end of the measurement, switch to the Analysis view and load the data for
evaluation.

The data set includes two groups of data points (see Figure 1.76).

Figure 1.76 – The data obtained with the TestFI20-Integrator procedure

The first group contains the measured data points. The other group contains data
points from a reference measurement. This data can be used for comparison with
the data points obtained during the test.

The measured data should be similar to the reference data provided for
comparison as shown in Figure 1.77.

Figure 1.77 – The expected result of the TestFI20-Integrator procedure

The test is successful if the measured data can be compared to the reference data.

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Note

The current recorded during current integration cyclic voltammetry strongly

depends on the value of the capacitance included in the circuit of dummy cell
(a). This capacitance has a tolerance of ± 5 %. The measured data points
should therefore by qualitatively compared to the reference data provided with
the test.

1.6.11 – Test of FI20-Integrator-PGSTAT101

The TestFI20-Integrator-PGSTAT101 procedure can be used to test the correct

functionality of the on-board integrator of the PGSTAT101 and the Autolab M101
potentiostat/galvanostat module.

Note

The FI20-Integrator needs to be properly calibrated before the test. Integrator

calibration is performed in the Diagnostics application. Please refer to
Section 1.5 of the Getting Started manual or the FI20 tutorial for more
information.

Warning

This test is designed for the PGSTAT101 and M101 only. For all the other
Autolab instruments fitted with a FI20 module, please use the TestFI20-
Integrator procedure (see Section 1.6.10).

Load the TestFI20-Integrator-PGSTAT101 procedure.

This test uses the internal dummy cell of the instrument. Connect the CE and the
RE electrode leads and the WE and S from the cell cable as shown in Figure 1.78
and press the start button.

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CE

S
WE
RE

Figure 1.78 – The connections required for the TestFI20-Integrator-PGSTAT101 procedure

A warning message, indicating that the internal dummy cell is used, will be shown
during validation (see Figure 1.79). This warning is provided as a reminder and the
OK button can be clicked to proceed with the measurement.

Figure 1.79 – A warning is displayed at the beginning of the procedure

A message will be displayed when the measurement starts (see Figure 1.80).

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Figure 1.80 – A message is displayed at the beginning of the test

The test uses the cyclic voltammetry current integration staircase method and
performs a single potential scan. During this scan the potential of the working
electrode is scanning between -1 V and 1 V. During this measurement, an
integration time-constant of 0.01 s is used.

At the end of the measurement, switch to the Analysis view and load the data for
evaluation.

The data set includes two groups of data points (see Figure 1.81).

Figure 1.81 – The data obtained with the TestFI20-Integrator-PGSTAT101 procedure

The first group contains the measured data points. The other group contains data
points from a reference measurement. This data can be used for comparison with
the data points obtained during the test.

The measured data should be similar to the reference data provided for
comparison as shown in Figure 1.82.

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Figure 1.82 – The expected result of the TestFI20-Integrator-PGSTAT101 procedure

The test is successful if the measured data can be compared to the reference data.

Note

The current recorded during current integration cyclic voltammetry strongly

depends on the value of the capacitance included in the circuit of dummy cell
(a). This capacitance has a tolerance of ± 5 %. The measured data points
should therefore be qualitatively compared to the reference data provided with
the test.

1.6.12 – Test of FRA

The TestFRA procedure can be used to test the correct functionality of the
FRA32M and the FRA2 module 18.

18
When the FRA32M or FRA2 is installed in a PGSTAT302F, make sure that the PGSTAT302F is set
to Normal mode.

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Warning

For the FRA2 module make sure that the FRA2 offset DAC range property is
set properly in the hardware setup. For FRA2 modules, the correct value is 5 V.
For FRA2.V10 modules, the correct value is 10 V. Failure to set this value
properly may result in faulty data at frequencies of 25 Hz and lower (refer to
front panel labels of the FRA2 module on the instrument).

Load the TestFRA procedure, connect dummy cell (c) and press the start button.

A message will be displayed when the measurement starts. The test uses a
potentiostatic frequency scan from 10 kHz to 0.1 Hz with a 10 mV amplitude. The
frequency scan contains 50 frequencies with a logarithmic distribution. The
measurement takes about four minutes to finish.

Click the OK button to continue with the measurement. During the experiment,
four plots are shown in the measurement view (see Figure 1.83). Plot #1
corresponds to the Nyquist plot (-Z” vs Z’), plot #2 corresponds to the Bode plot
(|Z| and -φ vs frequency), plot #3 corresponds to the resolution plot (i(resolution) vs
t and E(resolution) vs t) and plot #4 corresponds to the Lissajous plot (i(AC) vs
E(AC)).

Note

Switch the measurement view to Four plots mode by pressing the button in
the toolbar.

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Figure 1.83 – The measured values are displayed as a Nyquist plot (plot #1), Bode plot (plot
#2), Resolution plot vs time (plot #3) and Lissajous plot (plot #4)

At the end of the measurement, the data is automatically fitted using a R(RC)
equivalent circuit and the calculated values of the circuit elements are displayed in
a message box (see Figure 1.84).

Figure 1.84 – The fitted values are shown in a message box at the end of the measurement
(the reference values are shown in round brackets)

Reference values are shown in round brackets in the message box. The resistance
values should be within ± 1% of the reference value and the capacitance value
should be within ± 5% of the reference value. The calculated χ2 value should be
smaller than 0.001.

Switch to the Analysis view to inspect the measured and fitted data in detail. The
data set includes the measured data points and the result of an automatic fit of
the impedance data with the R(RC) equivalent circuit (see Figure 1.85).

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Figure 1.85 – The data obtained with the TestFRA procedure

The value of Rs, Rp, Cdl and χ2 displayed in the explorer frame. Select the Fit and
Simulation item in the data explorer and click the button located on the left
hand side of the plot area to open the Equivalent Circuit Editor window (see Figure
1.86).

Figure 1.86 – Opening the results of the Fitting of the data

The results of the calculation are graphically shown in the Equivalent Circuit Editor.
Select the Generate Report option from the Tools menu to display a short report
table for the fitted data (see Figure 1.87). The values shown in the last column
corresponds to the estimated errors on the different circuit elements, in %.

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Figure 1.87 – The Equivalent Circuit Editor window can be used to display the details of the
calculation

The errors on the estimated parameters from the fitting algorithm must be smaller
than 0.2 %.

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1.6.13 – Test of MUX

The TestMUX procedure can be used to test the correct functionality of the MUX
module. This procedure can be used to test any type of MUX configuration.

Load the TestMUX procedure, connect Channel 1 to dummy cell (a) and Channel
2 to dummy cell (c) as shown in Figure 1.88.

C1 1µF C1 1µF
R2 R2
WE(+S) WE(+S)
CE CE
R4 (a) R4 (a)
100Ω 100Ω

1MΩ 1MΩ

CE2 CE1 WE1 S1 CE WE1

C2 1µF C2 1µF
R1 R1
WE(+S) WE(+S)
RE RE
R3 (b) R3 (b)
100Ω 100Ω

1MΩ 1MΩ
R7 R7
RE2 RE1 10kΩ 10kΩ
RE
C3 1µF C3 1µF

WE(+S) WE(+S) WE(+S) WE(+S)

(e) R5 (c) (e) R5 (c)

1kΩ 1kΩ
WE2 S2 WE2
C4 R6 C4 R6
WE(+S) WE(+S)
(d) (d)
1µF 5kΩ 1µF 5kΩ

DUMMY CELL2 DUMMY CELL2

Figure 1.88 – Overview of the connections to the dummy cell required for the TestMUX
procedure (left: MULTI4, right: SCNR16)

Press the start button. A message will be displayed when the measurement starts.
The test uses the cyclic voltammetry staircase method and performs two single
potential scans. The first scan is performed on Channel 1 and the second scan is
performed on Channel 2.

During each scan the potential of the working electrode is scanning between -1 V
and 1 V. The recorded data points for Channel 1 are displayed on plot #1 and the
data points for Channel 2 are displayed on plot #2.

Note

Switch the measurement view to Two plots vertically tiled mode by pressing the
button in the toolbar.

At the end of the measurement, switch to the Analysis view and load the data for
evaluation.

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The data set includes four groups of data points (see Figure 1.89).

Figure 1.89 – The data obtained with the TestMUX procedure

The first two groups contain the measured on Channel #1 and on Channel #2. The
other two groups contain data points for the WE(1).Current from a reference
measurement. This data can be used for comparison with the data points obtained
during the test.

The measured data should be similar to the reference data provided for
comparison as shown in Figure 1.90.

Figure 1.90 – The expected result of the TestMUX procedure (Channel 1 (left) and Channel 2
(right))

The test is successful if the measured data can be compared to the reference data.

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1.6.14 – Test of pX and pX1000

The TestpX and TestpX1000 procedures can be used to test the correct
functionality of the pX and pX1000 modules, respectively. Both tests are
performed on the dummy cell.

Load the TestpX or the TestpX1000 procedure depending on the module to test
from the Standards database. Connect the pX/pX1000 cable to the module, on
the front panel of the instrument. Connect the V+ lead from the pX/pX1000 cable
(red lead) to dummy cell (a) and the V- lead from the pX/pX1000 cable (black lead)
to the CE connector on the dummy cell. Connect the PGSTAT cables to dummy
cell (a) (see Figure 1.91).
To pX1000 module To pX1000 module

C1 1µF
R2
WE(+S)
CE
R4 (a)
100Ω

1MΩ
CE V- V+ S WE
C2 1µF
R1
WE(+S)
RE
R3 (b)
100Ω

1MΩ
R7
RE 10kΩ
C3 1µF

WE(+S) WE(+S)
(e) R5 (c)

1kΩ

C4 R6
WE(+S)
(d)
1µF 5kΩ

DUMMY CELL2

Figure 1.91 – Overview of the connections to the dummy cell required for the TestpX and the
TestpX1000

Warning

During the TestpX procedure, designed to verify the functionality of the pX

module, make sure that the 50 Ohm resistor BNC shunt is NOT connected to
the  G BNC input on the front panel of the pX module.

Press the start button to start the measurement.

A message will be displayed when the measurement starts. The test uses the cyclic
voltammetry staircase method and performs a single potential scan. During this
scan the potential of the working electrode is scanning between -1 V and 1 V. The
potential between the counter electrode and the working electrode is recorded by
the pX/pX1000 module.

At the end of the measurement, switch to the Analysis view and load the data for
evaluation.

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The data set includes two groups of data points (see Figure 1.92).

Figure 1.92 – The data obtained with the TestpX/TestpX1000 procedure

Note

The data for the TestpX is displayed in a similar way.

The first group contains the measured data points. The other group contains data
points from a reference measurement. This data can be used for comparison with
the data points obtained during the test.

The measured data should be similar to the reference data provided for
comparison as shown in Figure 1.93.

Figure 1.93 – The expected result of the TestpX or the TestpX1000 procedure

The test is successful if the measured data can be compared to the reference data.

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1.6.15 – Test of the SCANGEN or the SCAN250

Two procedures, TestSCANGEN and TestSCAN250 can be used to test the correct
functionality of the linear scan generator module (SCANGEN or SCAN250,
respectively).

Load the TestSCANGEN or the TestSCAN250 procedure depending on the

module to test from the Standards database, connect dummy cell (a) and press the
start button.

A message will be displayed when the measurement starts.

The test uses the cyclic voltammetry linear scan method and performs a potential
scan starting from 0 V, between an upper vertex potential of 1 V and a lower
vertex potential of -1 V. After the first potential scan, the measurement stops at
the upper vertex potential, 1 V. At the end of the measurement, switch to the
Analysis view and load the data for evaluation.

The data set includes two groups of data points (see Figure 1.94).

Figure 1.94 – The data obtained with the TestSCAN250 procedure

Note

The data for the TestSCANGEN is displayed in a similar way.

The first group, located under TestSCAN250 (Measured data) contains the
measured current plotted versus the measured potential. The second group
contains data from a reference measurement. This data can be used for
comparison with the data points obtained during the test.

The measured data should be similar to the reference data provided for
comparison as shown in Figure 1.95.

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Figure 1.95 - The expected result of the TestSCAN250 or the TestSCANGEN procedure

The test is successful if the measured data can be compared to the reference data.

Note

the current recorded during a measurement with the SCANGEN or the

SCAN250 module strongly depends on the value of the capacitance included in
the circuit of dummy cell (a). This capacitance has a tolerance of ± 5 %. The
measured data points should therefore be qualitatively compared to the
reference data provided with the test.

1.6.16 – Test of the SCANGEN or the SCAN250 in combination with the ACD750
or the ADC10M

The TestADC/SCAN procedure can be used to test the correct functionality of the
linear scan generator module (SCANGEN or SCAN250) in combination with the
fast sampling ADC module (ADC750 or ADC10M) for high speed linear scan cyclic
voltammetry measurements.

Load the TestADC/SCAN procedure, connect dummy cell (a) and press the start
button.

A message will be displayed when the measurement starts.

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Note

No data points can be shown real time during measurements with the fast-
sampling ADC module.

The test uses the cyclic voltammetry linear scan high speed method and performs
a potential scan starting from 0 V, between an upper vertex potential of 1 V and a
lower vertex potential of -1 V. After the first potential scan, the measurement
stops at the upper vertex potential, 1 V at 100 V/s. At the end of the
measurement, switch to the Analysis view and load the data for evaluation.

The data set includes two groups of data points (see Figure 1.96).

Figure 1.96 – The data obtained with the TestADC/SCAN procedure

The first group, located under TestADC/SCAN (Measured data) contains the
measured current plotted versus the measured potential. The second group
contains data from a reference measurement. This data can be used for
comparison with the data points obtained during the test.

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The measured data should be similar to the reference data provided for
comparison as shown in Figure 1.97.

Figure 1.97 – The expected result of the TestADC/SCAN procedure

The test is successful if the measured data can be compared to the reference data.

Note

The current recorded during a measurement during the TestADC/SCAN

procedure strongly depends on the value of the capacitance included in the
circuit of dummy cell (a). This capacitance has a tolerance of ± 5 %. The
measured data points should therefore be qualitatively compared to the
reference data provided with the test.

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1.6.17 – Test of the EQCM

The TestEQCM procedure can be used to test the correct functionality of the filter
circuit of the EQCM.

Warning

This procedure cannot be performed on the dummy cell and it requires about 2
ml of water.

Load the TestEQCM procedure and insert a 6 MHz EQCM crystal in the EQCM cell.
Fill the cell with ca. 2 ml of water and check for leakage. Connect the cell to the
EQCM oscillator and the oscillator to the Autolab PGSTAT using the provided
cable. Leave the cell connectors from the PGSTAT disconnected. Please refer to the
EQCM user manual for more information.

Press the start button to start the measurement. Two messages will be displayed
when the measurement starts (see Figure 1.98).

Figure 1.98 – Two messages are displayed at the beginning of the measurement

When the second message appears, verify that the LED on the EQCM oscillator
box is ON (red or green).

Warning

Wait 15 minutes for the EQCM to warm up.

Click OK to continue. The Determine EQCM zero frequency window will appear
(see Figure 1.99).

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Figure 1.99 – The determine EQCM zero frequency window can be used to adjust the driving
force

Using the provided adjustment tool, rotate the trimmer on the EQCM oscillator in
order to minimize the driving force (refer to the EQCM user manual for more
information).

When the driving force has been properly minimized, the LED on the EQCM
oscillator must be green. Click the button in the Determine EQCM zero
frequency window to zero the value of the EQCM(1).∆Frequency signal.

After minimizing the ∆Frequency signal click the OK button to proceed with the
measurement. The procedure records the three signals provided by the EQCM
module during ten seconds. The EQCM(1).∆Frequency and EQCM(1).Temperature
signals are shown on plot #1 and the EQCM(1).Driving force signal is shown on
plot #2 (see Figure 1.100).

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Figure 1.100 – The data recorded during the TestEQCM procedure

Note

Switch the measurement view to Two plots vertically tiled mode by pressing the
button in the toolbar.

At the end of the measurement, a message is displayed, providing qualitative

validation criteria for the measured data (see Figure 1.101).

Figure 1.101 – A message is displayed at the end of the measurement

Switch to the Analysis view and load the data for evaluation. The data set includes
two groups of data points (see Figure 1.102).

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Figure 1.102 – The data obtained with the TestEQCM procedure

The first group contains the measured data points. The other group contains data
points from a reference measurement. This data can be used for comparison with
the data points obtained during the test.

The EQCM measurements depend on the temperature and the crystal used during
the experiment. Comparison with the provided reference data points should be
performed qualitatively.

1.6.18 – Determination of the C1 and C2 factors of the Autolab

When the FRA32M or FRA2 module is used in combination with the Autolab 19, the
C1 and C2 factors need to be determined. These factors can be determined with
the following procedures, included in the Module test database:

• PGSTAT C1 calibration
• PGSTAT C2 calibration

These procedures can be used in combination with the Autolab dummy cell.

Note

The C1 and C2 are predetermined when FRA32M or FRA2 module is

preinstalled. The C1 and C2 factors must be determined experimentally when a
FRA32M or FRA2 module is installed into an existing instrument. This
determination must only be carried out upon installation of the module.

Note

The C1 and C2 determination in not required for the M101 and the
PGSTAT204.

19
When the FRA32M or FRA2 is installed in a PGSTAT302F, make sure that the PGSTAT302F is set
to Normal mode.

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The typical values of C1 and C2 are listed in Table 1.3 for the different Autolab
instruments.

Instrument type C1 C2
PGSTAT302N 1.6E-11 3.0E-13
PGSTAT302F 1.6E-11 1.0E-12
PGSTAT128N 2.6E-11 1.0E-12
For instruments with serial number
PGSTAT128N 1.6E-11 1.0E-12
> AUT84179
PGSTAT100N 1.6E-11 5.0E-13

Table 1.3 – Typical values for C1 and C2

Note

The determination of the C1 and C2 values is not required for the M101
module used in combination with the FRA32M module in the Multi Autolab
instrument.

Before starting the determination of C1 and C2, verify that the starting values are
set to 0. Open the hardware setup (Tools – Hardware setup), select instrument
type in the Main module frame in the hardware setup window and adjust the
value of C1 and C2 to 0, as shown in Figure 1.103.

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Figure 1.103 – The value of C1 and C2 must be set to 0 before starting the measurements

The determination of C1 and C2 requires the following items:

• Autolab Dummy cell

• Faraday cage 20

1.6.18.1 – Determination of C1

Follow the steps described in this section to determine the value of the C1
parameter.

1. Start the Nova software.

2. Load the procedure PGSTAT C1 calibration from the Module test database.
3. Connect the Autolab Dummy cell as shown in Figure 1.104. Connect the
ground lead from the PGSTAT to the Faraday cage.

Note

Do not connect the ground lead from the PGSTAT to the Dummy cell. Place the
dummy cell in the Faraday cage.

20
Please contact your Autolab distributor if you need assistance.

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C1 1µF
R2
WE(+S)
CE
R4 (a)
100Ω

1MΩ

CE C2 1µF
R1
WE(+S)
RE
R3 (b)
100Ω

1MΩ
R7
10kΩ
RE
C3 1µF

WE(+S) WE(+S)
(e) R5 (c)

1kΩ

WE S
C4 R6
WE(+S)
(d)
1µF 5kΩ

DUMMY CELL2

Figure 1.104 – Overview of the connections required for the determination of C1

4. Start the measurement and wait until it has been finished. Ignore the
warning displayed during the procedure validation (see Figure 1.105).

Figure 1.105 – Ignore the warning shown during the validation of the procedure

5. A reminder message is shown at the beginning of the measurement (see

Figure 1.106).

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Figure 1.106 – A reminder message is shown at the beginning of the measurement

6. During the measurement, the measured data will be plotted as a Bode plot
should be similar to the example shown in Figure 1.107.

Figure 1.107 – Typical Bode plot obtained during the C1 calibration

7. The data is automatically fitted and the results of the fitting are reported in
a Message box at the end of the measurement (see Figure 1.108).

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Figure 1.108 – The experimentally determined value of C1 is reported in a Message box at

the end of the measurement

8. Open the Hardware setup of Nova (Tools – Hardware setup). Select the
instrument type in the Main Module frame in the hardware setup window
and adjust the value of C1 to the value reported in the Message box (see
Figure 1.109).

Figure 1.109 – Change the value of C1 to the value reported in the Message box

9. Click OK to save the changes and wait for the Autolab to be reinitialized
using the updated Hardware setup.

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1.6.18.2 – Determination of C2

Follow the steps described in this section to determine the value of the C2
parameter.

1. Load the procedure PGSTAT C2 calibration from the Module test database.
2. Disconnect the Dummy cell and leave the leads open in the Faraday cage.
CE and RE must be connected together as well as WE and S (as shown in
Figure 1.110). Make sure RE/CE and WE/S are not connected together.
Connect the ground lead from the PGSTAT to the Faraday cage.
CE

S
WE
RE

Figure 1.110 – Overview of the connection required for the determination of C2

3. Start the measurement and wait until it has been finished. Ignore the
warning displayed during the procedure validation (see Figure 1.111).

Figure 1.111 – Ignore the warning shown during the validation of the procedure

4. A reminder message is shown at the beginning of the measurement (see

Figure 1.112).

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Figure 1.112 – A reminder message is shown at the beginning of the measurement

5. During the measurement, the measured data will be plotted as a Bode plot
should be similar to the example shown in Figure 1.113.

Figure 1.113 – Typical Bode plot obtained during the C2 calibration

6. The data is automatically fitted and the results of the fitting are reported in
a Message box at the end of the measurement (see Figure 1.114).

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Figure 1.114 – The experimentally determined value of C2 is reported in a Message box at

the end of the measurement

7. Open the Hardware setup of Nova (Tools – Hardware setup). Select the
instrument type in the Main Module frame in the hardware setup window
and adjust the value of C2 to the value reported in the Message box (see
Figure 1.115).

Figure 1.115 – Change the value of C2 to the value reported in the Message box

8. Click OK to save the changes and wait for the Autolab to be reinitialized
using the updated Hardware setup.

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Nova Getting started

The aim of the NOVA Getting started is to give new users a feel of the main
features of the software as well as to introduce them to its mechanics. It is also
intended to test the installation of the software. The example illustrated in this
section will be presented without a specific clarification for each instruction or
command. This chapter is meant to be used as a walkthrough for first time users.
All of the aspects of the software are discussed in more detail in the User Manual.
The document can be accessed in Nova by pressing the F1 key or through the
Help menu.

2 – A typical Nova measurement

A typical Nova measurement starts with a procedure. This procedure must be
selected, modified if necessary and executed. Nova will run through the
instructions of the procedure and carry them out sequentially. While this happens,
the collected data points will be displayed in real time. At the end of the
measurement the data points will be available for further analysis.

Note

GPES users are used to start a measurement by selecting a pre-defined method

from a list of available techniques. Nova is designed to perform complex
measurements, seamlessly switching from one electrochemical method to
another in a single procedure (see Chapter 2 of the User manual for further
information). Therefore the electrochemical method selection becomes obsolete
(ready to use template procedures are included, see Chapter 3 for more
information).

For this quick start the Autolab is used in conjunction with the dummy cell.

2.1 – Starting up the software (installation required, see Chapter 1)

Nova can be started by double clicking the Nova shortcut on the computer
desktop. If an Autolab is already connected to the computer through the USB
connection and turned on, the software will automatically identify the instrument
and upload the required control software.

If no instrument is connected after starting Nova, connecting the Autolab to the

computer using the USB and turning it on will trigger the initialization process
automatically (see Chapter 1 for further details on the USB communication with
the instrument).

By default, Nova will start in the Setup view. The Setup view is one of the four
views the user can select while operating Nova. The other three are the
Measurement view (used to display the data in real time during a measurement),

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the Analysis view (used to perform data analysis) and the Multi Autolab view (used
to control the Multi Autolab or more than one instrument at the same time).

The Setup view contains several areas (also called frames). Figure 2.1 shows an
overview of the Setup view.

Toolbar Quick access toolbar

Procedure editor frame

Procedure & Command browser

User log
Start / Stop button

Figure 2.1 – Overview of the Setup view of Nova

More information regarding the Setup view of Nova can be found in Chapter 2 of
the User Manual.

The procedure browser frame displays a number of available procedures, in the

Autolab group. Figure 2.2 shows a more detailed view of the Setup view.

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Figure 2.2 – Details of the Setup view

The procedures visible in the Autolab group in the browser are standard factory
procedures. These procedures are always visible and cannot be changed or
removed.

Note

The actual number of procedures listed in the Autolab group of procedures in

the Setup view depends on the active profile. By default, the Cyclic voltammetry
potentiostatic procedure should be visible in this group, unless it has been
hidden on purpose. Please refer to the User manual for more information on
the use of profiles in Nova.

2.2 – Running cyclic voltammetry on the dummy cell

The purpose of this quick start is to perform staircase cyclic voltammetry on the
Autolab dummy cell. In the example discussed below, the dummy cell (c) is used.
The cell cables should therefore be connected to the dummy cell as displayed in
Figure 2.3.

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Note

The PGSTAT101 is not equipped with the Autolab dummy cell. An optional
external dummy cell can be obtained (Contact your Autolab distributor for more
information). For the PGSTAT101, use the procedure TestCV PGSTAT101
available in the Module test database (Refer to the Module test with Nova
document, available from the Help – Tutorials menu).

C1 1µF
R2
WE(+S)
CE
R4 (a)
100Ω

1MΩ

CE C2 1µF
R1
WE(+S)
RE
R3 (b)
100Ω

1MΩ
R7
10kΩ
RE
C3 1µF

WE(+S) WE(+S)
(e) R5 (c)

1kΩ

WE S
C4 R6
WE(+S)
(d)
1µF 5kΩ

DUMMY CELL2

Figure 2.3 – Dummy cell connections

2.2.1 – Setting up the experiment

To perform a cyclic voltammetry experiment, the default Cyclic voltammetry

potentiostatic procedure must be loaded into the Procedure editor. Right clicking
the Cyclic voltammetry potentiostatic procedure in the browser brings up a
context menu, displaying the Open for editing option (see Figure 2.4).

Figure 2.4 – Loading a procedure in the Editor frame (part 1)

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Clicking this instruction will load the procedure in the editor frame. The name of
procedure will change from New procedure to Cyclic voltammetry potentiostatic.
A series of commands will be displayed under the Cyclic voltammetry
potentiostatic procedure in the editor frame (see Figure 2.5).

These commands form the procedure and will be executed sequentially when the
procedure is started.

Figure 2.5 – Loading a procedure in the Editor frame (part 2)

Once the procedure is loaded in the procedure editor frame, it can be executed.
This procedure will perform a single potential scan, between -1 V and 1 V on the
dummy cell, starting at a potential of 0 V, with a scan rate of 100 mV/s.

Note

In Nova, a procedure is defined as the combination of a signal sampler and a

series of commands. The signal sampler defines which signals (current,
potential, time, pH, …) will be sampled during the measurement and the
commands define how these signals will be sampled.

When the procedure is loaded in the procedure editor frame it can be modified
and started. It is convenient to name each experiment in a unique way, for
bookkeeping purposes. To change the name of the cyclic voltammetry
potentiostatic procedure to a custom name, click the cyclic voltammetry
potentiostatic name in the procedure editor and change it to Quick start Cyclic
voltammetry (see Figure 2.6).

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Figure 2.6 – Editing the procedure name

After the title has been edited, validate with the Enter key and save the procedure,
using the File menu – Save procedure as New (see Figure 2.7).

Figure 2.7 – Save the procedure

The procedure will be added to the My procedures database (see Figure 2.8).

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Figure 2.8 – Adding the quick start cyclic voltammetry procedure

The procedure can now be started. Click the Start button located at the bottom of
the screen to begin the experiment. The procedure is first validated, which can
take a few seconds depending on the amount of commands in the procedure. If
no errors are detected, the measurement starts. The software will automatically
switch to the Measurement view where the measured data points are displayed in
real time.

You can also switch to the Measurement view at any time by clicking the
measurement view button in the toolbar (see Figure 2.9).

Figure 2.9 – Switching from the setup view to the measurement view

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2.2.2 – Viewing the measured data

The measurement view displays the measured data in real time. The default
display settings for a cyclic voltammetry experiment are the potential (Potential
applied) on the X-axis and the measured current on the Y-axis (WE(1).Current). The
scale of the plot is automatically adjusted during the measurement.

When the measurement is running, the start button is replaced by a stop button
that can be pressed to abort the experiment. Figure 2.10 shows the measurement
view during the Quick start experiment.

Toolbar Quick access toolbar

Measurement frame

Procedure progress

Parameter editor

User log
Start / Stop button

Figure 2.10 – The Measurement view

It is possible, at any time, to pick the Autolab display option from the View menu
(or to press the F10 shortcut key), as shown in Figure 2.11.

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Figure 2.11 – Select the Autolab display option in the View menu or use the dedicated
button in the toolbar to show or hide the Autolab display window

Figure 2.12 shows the Autolab display during the measurement.

Figure 2.12 – The Autolab display

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The Autolab display provides real-time information about the sampled signals and
the hardware settings and provides additional controls, like the button,
which can be used to reverse the scan direction 21.

The procedure used in this quick start guide performs a single scan on the dummy
cell. When the scan is finished, the stop button becomes a start button again,
indicating that Nova is ready to perform a new measurement.

At the end of the measurement, the User log can be updated, depending on the
events that occurred during the measurement. For example, if a current overload
occurred during the experiment, a message will be shown in the log (see Figure
2.13).

Figure 2.13 – The User log is automatically updated at the end of the experiment

Although the measurement view displays the measured data during and after the
experiment, it is not meant for data analysis. Data analysis is performed in the
dedicated analysis view. Switching to the analysis view can be done by clicking
the corresponding button on the toolbar (see Figure 2.14).

Figure 2.14 – Switching from the measurement view to the analysis view

2.2.3 – Analyzing the measured data

The analysis view is used to manage experimental data and perform data analysis.
Figure 2.15 shows the default layout.

21
Please refer to the Cyclic voltammetry tutorial, available from the Help – Tutorials menu, for
more information.

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Toolbar

Database frame
Quick access toolbar

Data explorer frame

Plot area Analysis frame

User log
Start / Stop button

Figure 2.15 – The analysis view

The analysis view has several noteworthy features, the most important of which is
the database. Every measurement is stored in the database automatically. Each
entry of the database corresponds to a measurement and is logged together with
the time and date, as well as a Remarks field and the serial number of the
instrument used in the experiment. An additional field, Instrument description can
be used to provide a description of the instrument (see Figure 2.16).

Figure 2.16 – Database entries are logged by Procedure name, Time stamp, Remarks,
Instrument and Instrument description

The database consists of one single folder. However, if required, a specific entry of
the database can be exported as a single file 22.

22
Please refer to the User Manual for more information.

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The analysis view features a dedicated toolbar (see Figure 2.17).

Figure 2.17 – The analysis view toolbar (highlighted)

To view and analyze the data from a measurement, the corresponding entry of the
database has to be loaded in the Data explorer frame.

Double click the Quick start Cyclic voltammetry entry of your database to load it in
the data explorer frame. The database entry will appear in this frame as shown in
Figure 2.18.

Figure 2.18 – Loading the measured data in the data explorer

Once the data from the database has been loaded into the data explorer frame, it
is available for data analysis. To view the data, click the blue i vs E item in the data
explorer. The measured data will be displayed using the default settings, i.e.,
plotting the Potential applied on the X-axis and the measured current,
WE(1).Current on the Y-axis. The measured data should be displayed in the data
analysis frame like in Figure 2.19.

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Figure 2.19 – Displaying the measured data in the analysis view

The final part of this quick start guide will illustrate some of the features of the
analysis view. More information can be found in Chapter 4 of the User Manual.

During this experiment, the Autolab instrument recorded values for time, current
and potential. These experimental values are known in Nova as Signals. These
signals can be used in any combination to control the way the data is plotted.

Click the symbol next to the blue i vs E line in the data explorer frame to reveal
the signals currently used for this plot (see Figure 2.20).

Figure 2.20 – Expanding the Signal set line in the data explorer frame

Figure 2.20 shows that for the current plot, the Potential applied signal is used for
the X-axis and the WE(1).Current signal is used for the Y-axis. The WE(1).Current
signal used for the Z-axis is not relevant for a 2D plot.

It might be useful to show the applied potential (on the Y-axis) as a function of
time (on the X-axis). This can be easily done within the analysis view by right
clicking the active setting for the X-axis (the WE(1).Potential applied) in the data
explorer frame and replacing it by the time. The same can be done to change the
signal plotted on the Y-axis from the measured WE(1).Current to the
WE(1).Potential (see Figure 2.21).

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Figure 2.21 – Changing the plot settings

After changing these settings, the plot should be similar to Figure 2.22.

Figure 2.22 – Plotting the applied potential as a function of time

The familiar saw-tooth profile of a cyclic voltammogram can be easily recognized.

Nova also provides a 3D plot engine. To switch to a 3D plot, click the

corresponding button of the data analysis view toolbar (see Figure 2.23).

Figure 2.23 – Showing the data in 3D

The 3D plot displays time, current, and potential on the same plot (use the
WE(1).Current as the Signal for the Z-axis). This plot can be turned and rotated by

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clicking the graph and moving the mouse around while holding the left button
(see Figure 2.24).

Figure 2.24 – Spinning the 3D graph around

Note

While holding the left mouse button, the mouse pointer changes to the pointer
highlighted in Figure 2.24.

Feel free to try to change the plot, either in the 2D or the 3D view. We
recommend that you take the time to get familiar with the Nova basics before
exploring the rest of the manual for more information.

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2.2.4 – Using the data grid

A very important feature of Nova is the Data grid and its functionality. During a
measurement, several signals are sampled and are stored in the database when
the measurement is completed. These signals are then available in the analysis
view for plotting purposes, as shown in the previous section.

For the standard Cyclic voltammetry potentiostatic measurement, these signals

are:

• Potential applied
• WE(1).Current
• WE(1).Potential
• Scan
• Time
• Index

The data grid provides an overview of all the signals. To access the data grid, click
the corresponding button, , in the toolbar (see Figure 2.25).

Figure 2.25 – Selecting the data grid

The data grid displays all the values of each signal that was recorded during the
measurement. Scrolling down the list allows you to inspect all the data points (see
Figure 2.26).

Figure 2.26 – The data grid displays the values of the signals

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Using the data grid, it is possible to export the measured data points to other
software’s for data analysis (Excel, Origin, SigmaPlot, …). This can be done by
right-clicking the data grid and by choosing the Export ASCII data option from the
context menu (see Figure 2.27).

Figure 2.27 – Exporting the data to ASCII or Excel

It is also possible to create new signals based on calculations performed on the

existing signals. For example, it can be useful to calculate the logarithm of the
measured current.

The data grid can be used like a spreadsheet. It comes with a signal calculator
which can be used to create a new signal based on an existing signal and a
mathematical operation.

To create a new signal, click the CV staircase item in the data explorer frame and
select the Calculate signal tool from the quick access toolbar by clicking the
button (see Figure 2.28).

Figure 2.28 – Adding a calculate signal to the CV staircase

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Alternatively, it is also possible to click the button located in the toolbar in the
frame on the right-hand side of the data grid (see Figure 2.29).

Figure 2.29 – Opening the Calculate signal tool

The Calculate signal window will be displayed (see Figure 2.30).

Figure 2.30 – The Calculate signal window

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The calculate signal window works as an electrochemical calculator. It has several

fields which are used to create a new signal:

• Name: this is the name of the new signal (a name is mandatory)

• Single value: this checkbox can be used to force the calculate signal to
return a single value
• Unit: the unit of the new signal
• Expression: this is the mathematical expression used to calculate the new
signal
• Parameters: a list of identified parameters used in the expression
• Functions: a list of common mathematical functions that can be used to
calculate the new signal
• Trigonometric functions: a list of common trigonometric functions
• Signals: this is a list of the available signals in the data set

As an example, we are going to calculate the logarithm of the current in order to

create a Tafel plot.

In the calculate signal window, type log(i) as a name to identify the new signal.
Then, scroll down the list of functions to locate the 10LOG function and double
click it to add it to the expression builder (see Figure 2.31).

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Figure 2.31 – Creating the log(i) signal – part 1: Defining the expression

Next, double click the ABS function, located under the 10LOG function, in order
to add it to the expression. Finally, in the expression, change the [parameter1]
text to i and click the parameters frame in the expression builder. The expression
builder will identify the parameter, i, as the only parameter of the expression. This
parameter will be displayed in the Parameters frame (see Figure 2.32).

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Figure 2.32 – Creating the log(i) signal – part 2: Identifying the parameters of the expression

The final step in the expression building process consists in linking the
parameter(s) of the expression to existing signal(s). Expand the CV staircase list of
available signals and double click the WE(1).Current signal to link it to the
parameter i (see Figure 2.33).

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Figure 2.33 – Creating the log(i) signal – part 3: Linking the parameters of the expression to
the available signals

The linked parameter will be displayed between brackets next to the name of the
signal. The name of the signal will be displayed in red, indicating that it is linked to
a parameter (see Figure 2.34).

Figure 2.34 – A detailed view of the expression builder

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Click the OK button to finish the calculation of the new signal. The contents of the
data grid will be updated indicating that the new signal has been added to the list
of available signals (see Figure 2.35). The expression used to calculate this signal is
displayed in the calculation frame.

Figure 2.35 – The log(i) signal added to the data grid

The newly created log(i) signal can now be used as any other signal to plot the
data either in 2D or 3D. Switch to the 2D plot by clicking the button in the
toolbar. Set the plot settings for the X-axis to WE(1).Potential applied and for the
Y-axis to log(i) as shown in Figure 2.36.

Note

The log(i) has been added to the list of signals available using the right click
menu.

Figure 2.36 – Changing the plot settings to create the Tafel plot

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2.2.5 – Saving to the database

In Nova, it is possible to save the changes in the database at any time. This allows
you to keep all the modifications on a given data set, as well as the results of data
analysis tools or additions to the data. To update a database entry, click the
located in the analysis toolbar (see Figure 2.37).

Figure 2.37 – Saving the modifications in the data base

Note

Saving the changes to the database in this case adds the log(i) signal to the
data set as well as the plot settings (Tafel plot).

Note

We advise to go through the User Manual, chapter by chapter, since it provides

in-depth information on procedures setup, measurements and data analysis.
Alternatively, you could skip to chapter 4 of the User Manual, which explores
the Data analysis features of Nova in detail to further practice on the dummy
cell data obtained in the course of this quick start.

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Autolab procedures
Nova comes with a series of factory standard procedures, located in the Autolab
group, that are available to every user and are intended both as examples and as
simple measurement procedures.

This chapter provides an overview of the available factory standard procedures.

3 – The Autolab procedures group

The Autolab procedures group, located in the procedure browser frame contains a
series of factory standard procedures. These procedures are intended to perform
simple measurements and can be used for routine experiments or as templates for
more elaborate procedures. The current version of Nova provides 26 Factory
standard procedures (see Figure 3.1).

Figure 3.1 – The Autolab procedures group in the Procedure browser frame

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The available procedures are:

• Cyclic voltammetry potentiostatic

• Cyclic voltammetry galvanostatic
• Cyclic voltammetry current integration 23
• Cyclic voltammetry linear scan 24
• Cyclic voltammetry linear scan high speed24, 25

• Linear sweep voltammetry potentiostatic

• Linear sweep voltammetry galvanostatic
• Linear polarization
• Hydrodynamic linear sweep 26
• Differential pulse voltammetry 27
• Square wave voltammetry27
• Sampled DC polarography27
• Chrono amperometry (∆t > 1 ms)
• Chrono potentiometry (∆t > 1 ms)
• Chrono amperometry fast
• Chrono potentiometry fast
• Chrono coulometry fast23
• Chrono amperometry high speed25
• Chrono potentiometry high speed25
• Chrono charge discharge
• i-Interrupt 28
• i-Interrupt high speed25, 28
• Positive feedback28
• FRA impedance potentiostatic 29
• FRA impedance galvanostatic29
• FRA potential scan29

Note

The actual number of procedures listed in the Autolab group of procedures in

the Setup view depends on the active profile (Please refer to the User manual
for more information on the use of profiles in Nova.). For example, if the
Hardware based profile is active, only the procedures that are compatible with
the connected Autolab are shown. Profiles can be selected from the Profile
menu (see Figure 3.2).

23
Requires the FI20 module or the on-board integrator (µAutolab II/III and PGSTAT101).
24
Requires the SCANGEN or the SCAN250 module.
25
Requires the ADC750 or the ADC10M.
26
This procedure is intended to be used in combination with the Autolab RDE, using the Remote
control option on the Autolab motor controller.
27
The IME663 or the IME303 module must be declared in the Hardware setup.
28
Not available on the µAutolab II/III and PGSTAT10.
29
Requires the FRA2 or FRA32M module.

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Figure 3.2 – The profile menu can be used to set one or more profiles active

This section provides information on the Autolab procedures. Some of these

procedures are illustrated using the Autolab dummy cell. Procedures requiring
additional hardware are not detailed. More information regarding the use of the
optional modules is provided in the dedicated tutorials, available from the Help –
Tutorials menu.

Each sub-section provides information on a specific procedure. A table is provided

for each procedure listing the profile tags and hardware requirements (see Table
3.1).

Hardware Tags None

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags Energy

Table 3.1 – Table used to indicate the tags for an Autolab procedure (Cyclic voltammetry
galvanostatic)

Table 3.1 shows the tags for the Autolab Cyclic voltammetry galvanostatic
procedure. This procedure normally appears in the Basic profile and is also used in
the Energy application profile. Furthermore, this procedure does not require
additional hardware.

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3.1 – Cyclic voltammetry potentiostatic

Hardware Tags None

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags Corrosion, Education, Electroanalysis, Energy,
Interfacial electrochemistry, Semiconductors

The standard Cyclic voltammetry potentiostatic procedure is the first procedure

located in the Autolab group of procedures. It is a typical potentiostatic staircase
cyclic voltammetry procedure. The procedure has the following parameters:

• Preconditioning potential: 0 V
• Duration: 5 s
• CV Staircase:
o Start potential: 0 V
o Upper vertex potential: 1 V
o Lower vertex potential: -1 V
o Stop potential: 0 V
o Number of stop crossings: 2
o Step potential: 2.44 mV
o Scan rate: 100 mV/s

Figure 3.3 shows an overview of the Cyclic voltammetry potentiostatic procedure.

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Figure 3.3 – The Cyclic voltammetry potentiostatic procedure

The signals sampled during this procedure are:

• Potential applied
• Time
• WE(1).Current
• Scan
• WE(1).Potential
• Index

The procedure uses the Automatic current ranging option and displays the
measured data as WE(1).Current vs Potential applied in the measurement view.
Figure 3.4 shows a measurement on the dummy cell (a) with the Autolab Cyclic
voltammetry potentiostatic procedure.

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Figure 3.4 – The measured data obtained with the standard dummy cell (a) with the Cyclic
voltammetry potentiostatic procedure

3.2 – Cyclic voltammetry galvanostatic

Hardware Tags None

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags Energy

The Cyclic voltammetry galvanostatic procedure is similar to the potentiostatic

version. It is a typical galvanostatic staircase cyclic voltammetry procedure. The
procedure has the following parameters:

• Preconditioning current: 0 A
• Duration: 5 s
• CV Staircase:
o Start current: 0 A
o Upper vertex current: 1 mA
o Lower vertex current: -1 mA
o Stop current: 0 V
o Number of stop crossings: 2
o Step current: 2.44 µA
o Scan rate: 100 µA/s

Figure 3.5 shows an overview of the Cyclic voltammetry galvanostatic procedure.

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Figure 3.5 – The Cyclic voltammetry galvanostatic procedure

The signals sampled during this procedure are:

• Current applied
• Time
• Scan
• WE(1).Potential
• WE(1).Current
• Index

Note

The automatic current ranging option is not available in galvanostatic mode

(Please refer to Chapter 4 of this manual for more information on the
Galvanostatic control restrictions.). This procedure uses the Autolab control
command to set the instrument to galvanostatic mode and in the 1 mA current
range before the measurement starts.

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Figure 3.6 shows a measurement on the dummy cell (c) with the Autolab Cyclic
voltammetry galvanostatic procedure.

Figure 3.6 – The measured data obtained with the standard dummy cell (c) with the Cyclic
voltammetry galvanostatic procedure

3.3 – Cyclic voltammetry current integration

Hardware Tags FI20 or on-board integrator

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags Education, Energy, Interfacial electrochemistry

This procedure requires the optional FI20 module or the on-board integrator for
the µAutolabII/III and the PGSTAT101. The procedure can be used to perform a
cyclic voltammogram using the current integration method. This measurement
technique uses a staircase potential profile but rather than sampling the current at
the end of each step to minimize capacitive currents, the total current is
accumulated in the analog integrator.

At the end of each step, the accumulated charge is reconverted in current. This
integrated current includes both the Faradaic and the capacitive currents passed
during the potential step. If the interval time is large (typically > 20 ms), the
current response measured during a current integration cyclic voltammetry
experiment can be compared, in first approximation, to the current measured with
a true linear scan potential profile. More information about the use of the analog
integrator is provided in the Filter and Integrator tutorial, available from the Help
menu in NOVA.

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3.4 – Cyclic voltammetry linear scan

Hardware Tags SCAN250 or SCANGEN module

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags Education, Energy, Interfacial electrochemistry

This procedure requires the optional SCAN250 or SCANGEN module. Both

modules are linear scan generators. The procedure can be used to perform a cyclic
voltammogram using a true linear scan potential profile rather than a staircase
potential profile. More information about the use of these modules is provided in
the Cyclic voltammetry linear scan tutorial, available from the Help menu in
NOVA.

3.5 – Cyclic voltammetry linear scan high speed

Hardware Tags SCAN250 or SCANGEN in combination with

ADC10M or ADC750 module
Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags None

This procedure requires the optional SCAN250 or SCANGEN module and the
optional ADC10M or ADC750 module. The SCAN250 and the SCANGEN are both
linear scan generators. The ADC10M and the ADC750 are fast sampling analog to
digital converters. The procedure can be used to perform a cyclic voltammogram
using a true linear scan potential profile rather than a staircase potential profile, at
high scan rate 30. More information about the use of these modules is provided in
the Cyclic voltammetry linear scan tutorial, available from the Help menu in
NOVA.

30
Up to 10 kV/s with the SCANGEN+ADC750 or ADC10M and the SCAN250+ADC750; up to 250
kV/s with the SCAN250 + ADC10M.

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3.6 – Linear sweep voltammetry potentiostatic

Hardware Tags None

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags Corrosion, Education, Electroanalysis, Energy,
Interfacial electrochemistry, Semiconductors

This procedure is a typical example of a staircase linear sweep voltammetry

experiment in potentiostatic conditions. The procedure has the following
parameters:

• Preconditioning potential: 0 V
• Duration: 5 s
• CV Staircase:
o Start potential: 0 V
o Stop potential: 1 V
o Step potential: 2.44 mV
o Scan rate: 100 mV/s

Figure 3.7 shows an overview of the Linear sweep voltammetry potentiostatic

procedure.

Figure 3.7 – The Linear sweep voltammetry potentiostatic procedure

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The signals sampled during this procedure are:

• Potential applied
• Time
• WE(1).Current
• WE(1).Potential
• Index

The procedure uses the Automatic current ranging option and displays the
measured data as WE(1).Current vs Potential applied in the measurement view.
Figure 3.8 shows a measurement on the dummy cell (a) with the Autolab Linear
sweep voltammetry potentiostatic procedure.

Figure 3.8 – The measured data obtained with the standard dummy cell (a) with the Linear
sweep voltammetry potentiostatic procedure

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3.7 – Linear sweep voltammetry galvanostatic

Hardware Tags None

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags Energy

This procedure is a typical example of a staircase linear sweep voltammetry

experiment in galvanostatic conditions. The procedure has the following
parameters:

• Preconditioning current: 0 A
• Duration: 5 s
• CV Staircase:
o Start current: 0 A
o Stop current: 1 mA
o Step current: 2.44 µA
o Scan rate: 100 µA/s

Figure 3.9 shows an overview of the Linear sweep voltammetry galvanostatic

procedure.

Figure 3.9 – The Linear sweep voltammetry galvanostatic procedure

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The signals sampled during this procedure are:

• Current applied
• Time
• WE(1).Potential
• WE(1).Current
• Index

Note

The automatic current ranging option is not available in galvanostatic mode

(Please refer to Chapter 4 of this manual for more information on the
Galvanostatic control restrictions.). This procedure uses the Autolab control
command to set the instrument to galvanostatic mode and in the 1 mA current
range before the measurement starts.

Figure 3.10 shows a measurement on the dummy cell (c) with the Autolab Linear
sweep voltammetry galvanostatic procedure.

Figure 3.10 – The measured data obtained with the standard dummy cell (c) with the Linear
sweep voltammetry galvanostatic procedure

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3.8 – Linear polarization

Hardware Tags None

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags Corrosion

The Linear polarization procedure measures the OCP potential (using the OCP
determination command 31) for the sample and then uses the Set reference
potential command set the potential values of the linear sweep voltammetry
relative to the averaged OCP (a moving average of 5 seconds is used).

The Linear polarization procedure has the following parameters:

• Measure OCP for 120 seconds with cutoff when dOCP/dt < 1 µV/s
• Preconditioning potential: -100 mV (vs. OCP)
• Duration: 5 s
• LSV Staircase:
o Start potential: -100 mV (vs. OCP)
o Stop potential: 100 mV (vs. OCP)
o Step potential: 1 mV
o Scan rate: 1 mV/s

Figure 3.11 shows an overview of the Linear polarization procedure.

31
Please refer to the Open circuit potential Tutorial, available from the Help menu, for more
information on the OCP determination command.

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Figure 3.11 – The standard Linear polarization procedure

During the OCP determination, the following signals are sampled:

• Time
• WE(1).Potential

The signals sampled during the linear sweep voltammetry measurement are:

• Potential applied
• Time
• WE(1).Current
• WE(1).Potential
• Index

At the end of the measurement, a corrosion rate calculation is performed.

Figure 3.12 shows a measurement on the dummy cell (c) with the Autolab Linear
polarization procedure.

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Figure 3.12 – The measured data obtained with the standard dummy cell (a) with the Linear
polarization procedure

3.9 – Hydrodynamic linear sweep

Hardware Tags Autolab RDE connected to DAC164 or Vout of

Autolab
Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags Corrosion, Education, Electroanalysis, Energy,
Interfacial electrochemistry

The Hydrodynamic linear sweep voltammetry procedure performs a linear sweep

voltammetry using the Autolab RDE, with six different rotation rates. The rotation
rate of the Autolab RDE is set using the Control Autolab RDE command linked to
the values of a repeat for each value command 32.

This procedure is intended to be used with the Remote switch of the Autolab
motor controller enabled (on the back plane of the controller) and with a BNC
cable connected between the DAC164 1 connector (Vout for the µAutolab II, III,
the PGSTAT101, PGSTAT204 and the Multi Autolab) and the Remote input plug on
the back plane of the Autolab RDE motor controller (see Figure 3.13).

Remote control of the Autolab RDE requires a BNC cable between the Autolab and the Autolab
32

motor controller.

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Figure 3.13 – The Hydrodynamic linear sweep Voltammetry is intended to be used with the
Autolab RDE and motor controller

Please refer to the Autolab RDE User Manual for more information.

The Hydrodynamic linear sweep voltammetry has the following parameters:

• Preconditioning potential: 1 V
• Set RDE rotation rate to 0 RPM
• Duration: 15 s
• Repeat for each value
o Set RDE rotation rate
o Wait 15 s
o LSV Staircase
• Start potential: 1 V
• Stop potential: 0 V
• Step potential: -2.44 mV
• Scan rate: 100 mV/s

Figure 3.14 shows an overview of the Hydrodynamic linear sweep voltammetry

procedure.

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Figure 3.14 – The standard Hydrodynamic linear sweep procedure

The signals sampled during this procedure are:

• Potential applied
• Time
• WE(1).Current
• WE(1).Potential
• Index

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Note

The step value used in the Hydrodynamic linear sweep voltammetry procedure
is negative because the sweep goes from 1 V to 0 V.

3.10 – Differential pulse voltammetry

Hardware Tags IME663 or IME303 interface

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags Electroanalysis

This procedure, intended to be used in combination with a Mercury Drop

Electrode (MDE) stand (Metrohm 663 VA, Princeton Applied Research 303/303A
or other compatible MDE) provides an example of a differential pulse voltammetry
measurement in NOVA.

This procedure requires the optional IME663 or IME303 module to be selected in

the Hardware setup. More information about the use of these Autolab accessories
is provided in the Voltammetric analysis tutorial, available from the Help menu in
NOVA.

3.11 – Square wave voltammetry

Hardware Tags IME663 or IME303 interface

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags Electroanalysis

This procedure, intended to be used in combination with a MDE stand (Metrohm

663 VA, Princeton Applied Research 303/303A or other compatible MDE) provides
an example of a square wave voltammetry measurement in NOVA.

This procedure requires the optional IME663 or IME303 module to be selected in

the Hardware setup. More information about the use of these Autolab accessories
is provided in the Voltammetric analysis tutorial, available from the Help menu in
NOVA.

3.12 – Sampled DC polarography

Hardware Tags IME663 or IME303 interface

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags Electroanalysis

This procedure, intended to be used in combination with a MDE stand (Metrohm

663 VA, Princeton Applied Research 303/303A or other compatible MDE) provides

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an example of a sampled DC polarography measurement in NOVA. During this

procedure, a new Hg drop is created at the end of each potential step.

This procedure requires the optional IME663 or IME303 module to be selected in

the Hardware setup. More information about the use of these Autolab accessories
is provided in the Voltammetric analysis tutorial, available from the Help menu in
NOVA.

3.13 – Chrono amperometry (∆t > 1 ms)

Hardware Tags None

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags Corrosion, Education, Electroanalysis, Energy,
Interfacial electrochemistry, Semiconductors

The Chrono amperometry (∆t > 1 ms) procedure has three consecutive potential
steps. After each potential step, the current response is recorded during five
seconds, with an interval time of 10 ms. The Record signals (>1 ms) command is
used to measure the electrochemical signals. This command samples the signals
with a smallest possible interval time of 1.30 ms.

The procedure has the following parameters:

• Preconditioning potential: 0 V
• Duration: 5 s
• Potential step 1: 0 V
• Potential step 2: 0.5 V
• Potential step 3: -0.5 V

Figure 3.15 shows an overview of the Chrono amperometry (∆t > 1 ms) procedure.

Figure 3.15 – The Chrono amperometry (∆t > 1 ms) procedure

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The signals sampled during this procedure are:

• Corrected time
• WE(1).Potential
• WE(1).Current
• Time
• Index

Figure 3.16 shows a measurement on the dummy cell (a) with the Autolab Chrono
amperometry (∆t > 1 ms) procedure.

Figure 3.16 – The measured data obtained with the standard dummy cell (a) with the Chrono
amperometry (∆t > 1 ms) procedure

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3.14 – Chrono potentiometry (∆t > 1 ms)

Hardware Tags None

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags Corrosion, Energy, Interfacial electrochemistry

The Chrono potentiometry (∆t > 1 ms) procedure has three consecutive current
steps. After each current step, the potential response is recorded during five
seconds, with an interval time of 10 ms. The Record signals (>1 ms) command is
used to measure the electrochemical signals. This command samples the signals
with a smallest possible interval time of 1.30 ms.

The procedure has the following parameters:

• Preconditioning current: 0 A
• Duration: 5 s
• Potential step 1: 0 A
• Potential step 2: 0.5 mA
• Potential step 3: -0.5 mA

Figure 3.17 shows an overview of the Chrono potentiometry (∆t > 1 ms)
procedure.

Figure 3.17 – The Chrono potentiometry (∆t > 1 ms) procedure

The signals sampled during this procedure are:

• Corrected time
• WE(1).Potential
• WE(1).Current
• Time
• Index

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Figure 3.18 shows a measurement on the dummy cell (c) with the Autolab Chrono
potentiometry (∆t > 1 ms) procedure.

Figure 3.18 – The measured data obtained with the standard dummy cell (c) with the Chrono
potentiometry (∆t > 1 ms) procedure

3.15 – Chrono amperometry fast

Hardware Tags None

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags Interfacial electrochemistry

The Chrono amperometry fast procedure uses the Chrono methods command
instead of the Record signals command. The Chrono methods command can be
used for fast electrochemical measurements. The interval time can be lower than 1
ms 33. Because this command works with higher sampling rates compared to the
Record signals command, the data cannot be plotted real-time. The measured
data is displayed at the end of the measurement.

The procedure has the following parameters:

• Preconditioning potential: 0 V
• Duration: 5 s
• Potential step 1: 0 V
• Potential step 2: 0.3 V
• Potential step 3: -0.3 V
• Potential step 4: 0 V

33
Down to ~ 100 µs.

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The response of the cell is measured with an interval time of 100 µs. At the end of
the measurement, switch to the analysis view to see the measured data points.

Figure 3.19 shows an overview of the Chrono amperometry fast procedure.

Figure 3.19 – The Chrono amperometry fast procedure

The levels used in this procedure are shown in Figure 3.20.

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Figure 3.20 – Overview of the levels used in the Chrono amperometry fast procedure

The signals sampled during this procedure are:

• Corrected time
• Level
• Time
• WE(1).Current
• Index

Note

The automatic current ranging option is not available during the chrono
methods measurement. This procedure uses the Autolab control command to
set the instrument high speed and in the 1 mA current range before the
measurement starts.

Figure 3.21 shows a measurement on the dummy cell (c) with the Autolab Chrono
amperometry fast procedure.

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Figure 3.21 – The measured data obtained with the standard dummy cell (c) with the Chrono
amperometry fast procedure

Note

More information on time resolved measurements can be found in the Chrono

methods tutorial, available from the Help menu in NOVA.

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3.16 – Chrono potentiometry fast

Hardware Tags None

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags Interfacial electrochemistry

The Chrono potentiometry fast procedure uses the Chrono methods command
instead of the Record signals command. The Chrono methods command can be
used for fast electrochemical measurements. The interval time can be lower than 1
ms 34. Because this command works with higher sampling rates compared to the
Record signals command, the data cannot be plotted real-time.

The procedure has the following parameters:

• Preconditioning current: 0 A
• Duration: 5 s
• Potential step 1: 0 A
• Potential step 2: 3 A
• Potential step 3: -3 A
• Potential step 4: 0 A

The response of the cell is measured with an interval time of 100 µs. At the end of
the measurement, switch to the analysis view to see the measured data points.

Figure 3.22 shows an overview of the Chrono potentiometry fast procedure.

Figure 3.22 – The Chrono potentiometry fast procedure

34
Down to ~ 100 µs.

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The levels used in this procedure are shown in Figure 3.23.

Figure 3.23 – Overview of the levels used in the Chrono potentiometry fast procedure

The signals sampled during this procedure are:

• Corrected time
• Level
• Time
• WE(1).Potential
• Index

Note

The automatic current ranging option is not available during the galvanostatic
chrono methods measurement. This procedure uses the Autolab control
command to set the instrument to galvanostatic mode, high speed and in the 1
mA current range before the measurement starts.

Figure 3.24 shows a measurement on the dummy cell (c) with the Autolab Chrono
potentiometry fast procedure.

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Figure 3.24 – The measured data obtained with the standard dummy cell (c) with the Chrono
potentiometry fast procedure

3.17 – Chrono coulometry fast

Hardware Tags FI20 or on-board integrator

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags Interfacial electrochemistry

This procedure requires the optional FI20 module or the on-board integrator for
the µAutolabII/III, the PGSTAT101 and Multi Autolab with M101. The procedure
can be used to perform chrono coulometric measurements. The integrator module
provides a direct measurement of the charge. More information about the use of
the analog integrator is provided in the Filter and Integrator tutorial, available
from the Help menu in NOVA.

3.18 – Chrono amperometry high speed

Hardware Tags ADC10M or ADC750 module

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags None

The Chrono amperometry high speed procedure uses the Chrono methods high
speed command. This command requires the optional ADC10M or ADC750
module. Depending on the module, the shortest interval time is 100 ns (ADC10M)
or 1.33 µs (ADC750).

More information about the use of these modules is provided in the Chrono
methods high speed tutorial, available from the Help menu in NOVA.

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3.19 – Chrono potentiometry high speed

Hardware Tags ADC10M or ADC750

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags None

The Chrono potentiometry high speed procedure uses the Chrono methods high
speed command. This command requires the optional ADC10M or ADC750
module. Depending on the module, the shortest interval time is 100 ns (ADC10M)
or 1.33 µs (ADC750).

More information about the use of these modules is provided in the Chrono
methods high speed tutorial, available from the Help menu in NOVA.

3.20 – Chrono charge discharge

Hardware Tags None

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags Energy

The Chrono charge discharge procedure uses the Repeat n times command to
repeat a combination of Set potential and Record signals (>1 ms) sequence. The
response of the cell is recorded during 2.5 s, with an interval time of 10 ms. The
Chrono charge discharge procedure has the following parameters:

• Preconditioning potential: 0 V
• Duration: 5 s
• Repeat 10 times
o Potential step 1: 1.2 V, duration: 2.5 s
o Potential step 2: 0 V, duration: 2.5 s

Figure 3.25 shows an overview of the Chrono charge discharge procedure.

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Figure 3.25 – The Autolab Chrono charge discharge procedure

The signals sampled during this procedure are:

• Corrected time
• Time
• WE(1).Potential
• WE(1).Current
• Index

Figure 3.26 shows a measurement on the dummy cell (a) with the Autolab Chrono
charge discharge procedure.

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Figure 3.26 – The measured data obtained with the standard dummy cell (a) with the Chrono
charge discharge procedure

3.21 – i-Interrupt

Hardware Tags None

Profile Tags Intermediate
Application Tags None

This procedure can be used to perform a current interrupt measurement in order

to determine the value of the uncompensated resistance.

Note

This procedure cannot be used in combination with the PGSTAT10 and the
µAutolab type II/III.

More information about the use of this procedure is provided in the iR

compensation tutorial, available from the Help menu in NOVA.

3.22 – i-Interrupt high speed

Hardware Tags ADC10M or ADC750 module

Profile Tags Intermediate
Application Tags None

This procedure is similar to the i-Interrupt procedure. This procedure uses the
optional fast sampling ADC module (ADC750 or ADC10M).

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This procedure can be used to perform a current interrupt measurement in order

to determine the value of the uncompensated resistance.

Note

This procedure cannot be used in combination with the PGSTAT10 and the
µAutolab type II/III. This procedure requires the fast sampling ADC module.

More information about the use of this procedure is provided in the iR

compensation tutorial, available from the Help menu in NOVA.

3.23 – Positive feedback

Hardware Tags None

Profile Tags Intermediate
Application Tags None

The Positive feedback procedure provides the means to determine the value of the
uncompensated resistance using the positive feedback method.

Note

This procedure cannot be used in combination with the PGSTAT10 and the
µAutolab type II/III.

More information about the use of this procedure is provided in the iR

compensation tutorial, available from the Help menu in NOVA.

3.24 – FRA impedance potentiostatic

Hardware Tags FRA32M or FRA2 module

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags Corrosion, Energy, Interfacial electrochemistry,
Semiconductors

The FRA impedance potentiostatic procedure requires the optional FRA32M or

FRA2 impedance analyzer module. This procedure can be used to perform a
potentiostatic frequency scan to determine the electrochemical impedance of the
cell.

More information about the use of the FRA32M or FRA2 module is provided in the
Impedance tutorial, available from the Help menu in NOVA.

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3.25 – FRA impedance galvanostatic

Hardware Tags FRA32M or FRA2 module

Profile Tags Basic
Application Tags Energy, Semiconductors

The FRA impedance galvanostatic procedure requires the optional FRA32M or

FRA2 impedance analyzer module. This procedure can be used to perform a
galvanostatic frequency scan to determine the electrochemical impedance of the
cell.

More information about the use of the FRA32M or FRA2 module is provided in the
Impedance tutorial, available from the Help menu in NOVA.

3.26 – FRA potential scan

Hardware Tags FRA32M or FRA2 module

Profile Tags Intermediate
Application Tags Semiconductors

The FRA potential scan procedure requires the optional FRA32M or FRA2
impedance analyzer module. This procedure can be used to perform a
potentiostatic frequency scan at different DC potentials to determine the
electrochemical impedance of the cell for each DC potential value.

More information about the use of the FRA32M or FRA2 module is provided in the
Impedance tutorial, available from the Help menu in NOVA.

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The Autolab Potentiostat/Galvanostat

Nova can be used to control Autolab potentiostats/galvanostats with USB
interface 35. While the technical specifications of each of the instruments might be
different, the operating principle remains the same.

This chapter provides an overview of the Autolab as well as information

concerning the digital nature of the instrument. Information regarding noise issues
is also provided.

4 – Autolab Hardware information

4.1 – Overview of the Autolab instrument

The Autolab instrument combined with the software is a computer-controlled

electrochemical measurement system. It consists of a data-acquisition system and
a potentiostat/galvanostat (see Figure 4.1).

USB interface

DAC164, FRA2 Cell on/off

Embedded real SCAN250, EEXT Σ
CA
time PC

re ce
decoder Other modules VF
PSTAT/GSTAT s we
DIO
ADC164, FRA2
ADC10M, FI20 CF

Figure 4.1 – Overview of the Autolab potentiostat/galvanostat

The Autolab has the following key digital components:

• USB interface
• Embedded real-time PC
• Decoder and DIO controller

35
Except the PSTAT10 and the µAutolab type I.

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The digital components are interfaced through the Autolab modules to the analog
potentiostat/galvanostat circuit. The latter consists of the following components:

• The summation point (Σ)

• The control amplifier (CA)
• The voltage follower (VF)
• The current follower (CF)

The summation point (Σ) is an adder circuit that feeds the input of the control
amplifier. It is connected to the output of the several key modules of the Autolab:

• DAC164
• FRA 36 DSG
• SCAN250 37
• Ein

Figure 4.2 shows a schematic overview of the different connections to the

summation point of the Autolab potentiostat/galvanostat 38. The labels shown in
Figure 4.2 correspond to the dividing factors used for each signal on the
summation point. For example, the signal generated by the FRA module (FRA-
DSG) has a maximum amplitude of 3.5 V (RMS), which is divided by 10 at the
input of the summation point, resulting in an effective maximum amplitude of
0.35 V (RMS).

DAC164-1
FRA-DSG
Offset DAC 1÷2 1÷10
± 3.5 V (RMS)
± 10 V

Σ
DAC164-2
Ein
Scanning DAC 1÷2 1÷1
± 10 V
± 10 V

DAC164-4
SCAN250
AC voltammetry DAC 1÷10 1÷1
±5V
± 10 V

Figure 4.2 – Mapping of the inputs of the summation point

36
This input is connected to the FRA32M or the FRA2 module.
37
Or earlier version SCANGEN.
38
Offset DAC, SCAN250/SCANGEN and Ein are not available on the µAutolab III.
SCAN250/SCANGEN, FRA-DSG and Ein are not available on the PGSTAT101. SCAN250/SCANGEN
and Ein are not available on the M101 module.

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The control amplifier provides the output voltage on the counter electrode (CE)
with respect to the working electrode (WE) required to keep the potential
difference between the reference electrode (RE) and the sense (S) at the user
defined value, in potentiostatic mode, or the user required current between the
counter electrode (CE) and the working electrode (WE) in galvanostatic mode.

The output of the control amplifier can be manually or remotely disconnected

from the electrochemical cell through a cell ON/OFF switch. The voltage follower
(VF) is used to measure the potential difference between the reference electrode
and the sense and the current follower (CF). The current follower has several
current ranges providing different current-to-voltage conversion factors.

The output of the CF and the VF are fed back to the analog-to-digital converter
modules of the Autolab:

• ADC164
• FRA ADC 39
• ADC10M 40
• FI20

Furthermore, the output of the VF or the CF is fed back to the summation point to
close the feedback loop in potentiostatic or galvanostatic mode, respectively.

The ADC164 provides the possibility of measuring analog signals. The input
sensitivity is software-controlled, with ranges of ± 10 V (gain 1), ± 1 V (gain 10)
and ± 0.1 V (gain 100). The resolution of the measurement is 1 in 65536 (16 bits,
ADC164). Analog signals can be measured with a rate of up to 60 kHz. The
ADC164 is used to measure the output of the Voltage Follower (VF) and Current
Follower (CF) of the potentiostat/galvanostat module.

The DAC164 generates analog output signals. The output is software-controlled

within a range of ± 10 V. The resolution of the DAC164 is 1 in 65535 (300 µV). In
the Autolab PGSTAT two channels of the DAC are used to control the analog input
signal of the potentiostat/galvanostat. The µAutolab only uses one DAC channel to
control the analog input (see Figure 4.2). The values of the DACs are added up in
the potentiostat and divided by 2. DAC channel 1 is used as a variable DAC and
DAC channel 2 provides a fixed offset. This results in an output of ± 10 V with a
resolution of 150 µV.

In practice this means that the potential range available with the Autolab PGSTAT
during an electrochemical experiment is ± 5 V with respect to the offset potential
generated by the offset DAC (DAC164-1). The available potential range is
therefore -10 V to 10 V with the Autolab PGSTAT and -5 V to 5 V with the
µAutolab.

39
These inputs are connected to the FRA32M or the FRA2 module.
40
Or earlier version ADC750.

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One additional DAC164 channel is available on the PGSTAT N series, DAC164-4.

This channel is hardwired to the summation point and it is divided by 10. This
input is used for measurements involving a small amplitude modulation (like AC
voltammetry and AC voltammetry second harmonic). Presently, these methods and
the use of this channel is not yet implemented in NOVA. The connection to the
summation point can be removed if necessary 41.

The DIO-part offers the possibility of controlling electrode systems, motorburettes

or other equipment that can be controlled by TTL signals. This module can also be
used to send or receive trigger signals to or from TTL devices. If an automatic
mercury electrode such as PAR303 or Metrohm 663 VA Stand is used, gas purging
and drop time can be activated. The interface for mercury electrodes, called
IME303 or IME663, provides all necessary signals and connections for these
electrodes, as well as for a drop knocker of a dropping mercury electrode (only for
IME303).

The embedded PC can be in two different locations, depending on the type of

interface:

• Inside of the Autolab-USB Interface box

• Inside of the Autolab-USB instrument

41
Contact your Autolab distributor for more information.

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4.1.1 – Event timing in the Autolab

The embedded PC is equipped with a 1 MHz timer that is used by the software to
control the timing of events during measurements. The shortest interval time on
the embedded PC is 1 µs. When a procedure is started in NOVA, the procedure is
first uploaded from the host PC to the embedded PC, through the USB
connection. The measurement can then be started.

Depending on the type of command that NOVA encounters during the

measurements two timing protocols are used:

1. Measurement commands: all measurement commands in NOVA are

Timed commands. Whenever NOVA encounters a measurement command,
it will be executed using the timing provided by the embedded computer of
the Autolab. If several measurement commands are located in sequence,
the sequence is executed without interruption. This ensures that the
measurement commands in the sequence are executed with the smallest
possible time gap. The actual time difference between two consecutive
commands depends on the hardware changes required during the
transition between the two commands. Switching current ranges or using
the cell switch are time consuming steps since they involve mechanical
relays which require a fixed settling time. Taking into account these
hardware defined interval times, the effective time gap between two
consecutive commands in a Timed procedure will be ≤ 10 ms.

Note

Measurement commands are identified by a green line on the left-hand side of

the procedure editor.

2. Host commands: all the other commands in NOVA are host commands.
These commands are executed by the host PC using the timing provided by
this computer. Since the host PC is also involved in other Windows activity,
accurate timing of events cannot be guaranteed and the effective interval
time between two consecutive host commands will depend entirely on the
amount of activity on the host PC. Depending on the command sequence,
the time gap can be as short as ~ 2 s (transition between host command to
measurement command) or several seconds (transition between
measurement command and host command). Transfer of large amounts
measured data points is particularly time consuming 42.

42
The on-board memory of the fast sampling ADC module (ADC10M or ADC750) can store up to
one million data points. Allow for gap times of several seconds when large data sets are
transferred from the Autolab to the host computer.

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Figure 4.3 shows the Autolab Linear polarization procedure, in which

measurement and host commands are identified using the green timing guide on
left-hand side.

Timing guide

Figure 4.3 – The Autolab Linear polarization procedure (with the timing guide highlighted)

The procedure contains a series of measurement commands which are interrupted

at two commands:

• OCP determination command

• Corrosion rate, fit

These interruptions are indicated in the timing guide shown in Figure 4.3 by the
matching breaks located right next to the two commands.

The OCP determination command is a host command because it requires the

derivative of the measured OCP to be calculated during the measurement. The
Corrosion rate, fit command is, like all analysis commands, a host command.

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The timing guide indicates that when this procedure is performed, a small
interruption can be expected when the OCP determination command and when
the Corrosion rate, fit command are executed.

Note

If needed, the Corrosion rate, fit command can be moved to the end of the
procedure to prevent the interruption between the LSV staircase command and
the Set cell command.

4.2 – Consequence of the digital base of the Autolab

It is clear that the digital nature of the instrument has consequences for the
measurements. The consequences for the different techniques are 43:

• The minimum potential step or pulse in all techniques is 150 µV (16 Bit
DAC164).
• All potential steps are rounded up or down to the nearest possible multiple
of 150 µV.
• In cyclic voltammetry staircase, the interval time, Δ𝑡, or time between two
consecutive steps is given by:

𝐸𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑝
∆𝑡 =
𝜈⃗
Where 𝐸𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑝 is the potential step and 𝜈⃗ is the scan rate in V/s.

The response of the electrochemical cell is recorded digitally. Therefore the

resolution of the measurements is also limited. The actual resolution depends on
the technique and on the amplitude of the signal. Since the A/D converter is
equipped with a software programmable amplifier, the absolute resolution
depends on the gain of the amplifier. The gains used are 1, 10 and 100 times the
input signal.

NOVA automatically selects the best possible gain during a measurement. Gain 10
and 100 are used when the signal is small enough.

When the absolute value of the current is higher than (0.5 * current range), the
resolution of the current measurement equals:
𝐶.𝑅.∙20
216 ∙1
= 𝐶. 𝑅.∙ 0.0003

When the absolute value of the current is lower than (0.5 * current range), the
resolution equals:

43
The same applies for Galvanostatic control of the instrument.

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𝐶. 𝑅.∙ 20
= 𝐶. 𝑅.∙ 0.00003
216 ∙ 10
When the absolute value of the current is lower than (0.05 * current range), the
resolution equals:

𝐶. 𝑅.∙ 20
= 𝐶. 𝑅.∙ 0.000003
216 ∙ 100
The effect of the limited resolution can be seen, for instance when low currents
are measured at a high current range. In such cases a lower current range has to
be applied, if possible. When automatic current ranging is used, the most suitable
current range is selected automatically.

Care must be taken when using this option in the following situations:

• High frequency square wave voltammetry is applied.

• High scan rates in cyclic and linear sweep voltammetry are applied.

Switching of the current range takes about 0.5 ms to 2 ms. Therefore an

erroneous point can be measured when the current range is switched. Most of the
time, this error can be corrected by smoothing the plot afterwards.

4.3 – Autolab PGSTAT information

This section provides specific information for the Autolab PGSTAT series of
instruments. The following instruments fall under this category: PGSTAT12, 128N,
30, 302, 302N, 100 and 100N 44.

4.3.1 – Front panel and cell cable connection

There are four connectors on the front panel of the PGSTAT. The cable that
connects to the WE and CE should be plugged into the WE/CE socket while the
cable with the differential amplifier (leading to the RE, S and optionally WE2
electrodes) connects to the RE/S socket. A ground cable, embedded in the WE/CE
cable connection, can be used to plug to the earth bulkhead for shielding
purposes. Finally a monitor cable can be connected to a dedicated connector (see
Figure 4.4).

44
For information on the PGSTAT302F, please refer to Section 4.4. For information on the
PGSTAT101 and the Multi Autolab with M101 module, please refer to Section 4.5. For information
on the µAutolab type II and III, please refer to Section 4.6.

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Note

The Series 7 instruments and early Series 8 instruments are provided with an
additional ground cable which should be connected to the plug provided above
the connector for the monitor cable. This ground connector should be used for
grounding purposes.

On/Off button Digital display Cell On/Off switch

ADC164 DAC164 Monitor cable input RE/S socket

WE/CE/Ground socket

On/Off button Digital display Cell On/Off switch

Ground connection

ADC164 DAC164 Monitor cable input RE/S socket

WE/CE socket

Figure 4.4 – Overview of the Autolab PGSTAT (top –Series 8 PGSTAT, bottom – Series 7
PGSTAT)

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Note

The Series 8 instruments are provided with an additional ground cable

embedded into the CE/WE cable. This ground connector should be used for
grounding purposes.

The cell cables are labelled as follows:

• Working or indicator electrode, WE (red)

• Sense electrode, S (red)
• Reference electrode, RE (blue)
• Auxiliary or counter electrode, CE (black)

In a four electrode setup, each of the cell cable connectors is used independently.
In a three electrode set-up the working electrode and sense lead are both
connected to the working electrode. In a two electrode set-up the counter and
reference electrode lead are both connected to the same electrode (see Figure
4.5).

RE

CE WE

RE

CE WE

RE S

CE WE

Figure 4.5 – Overview of the possible cell connections with the Autolab PGSTAT (from top to
bottom: two electrode, three electrode and four electrode setup)

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4.3.2 – Power up

The settings of the PGSTAT on power-up are pre-defined. The following settings
are used:

• Cell: off
• Mode: Potentiostatic
• Bandwidth: High stability
• iR Compensation: off
• Current range: 10 mA
• ECD mode: off, if applicable

4.3.3 – Connections for analog signals

The Autolab PGSTAT provides connections for analog signals through two
different types of connectors:

• BNC connectors directly located on the front panel of the instrument

• BNC connectors located on the monitor cable

4.3.3.1 – Connections for analog signals (front panel)

The ADC164 module and the DAC164 module are fitted with two analog inputs
and two analog outputs, respectively (see Figure 4.6).

ADC164 DAC164

Figure 4.6 – Overview of the connections for analog signals provided on the front panel of
the Autolab PGSTAT (ADC164 and DAC164)

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ADC164 – The ADC164 inputs, labelled 1 and 2 on the front panel, can be
used to record any analog signal with a ± 10 V value range. The input impedance
of the two analog inputs is 50 Ω.

DAC164 – The DAC164 outputs, labelled 1 and 2 on the front panel, can be
used to generate any analog signal with a ± 10 V value range. The output
impedance of these two inputs is 50 Ω. Corrections should be made with loads
< 100 kΩ. Because of dissipation, the minimum load impedance should be 200 Ω.

Note

The DAC164 1 and 2 outputs are identified as DAC channels 3 and 4,

respectively in the Set DAC command.

4.3.3.2 – Connections for analog signals (monitor cable)

With the supplied monitor cable, there are a number of BNC connectors to the
PGSTAT analog circuits (see Figure 4.7). All the signals are with respect to Autolab
ground and indirectly to protective earth. Avoid creating ground loops as this will
often degrade the performance of the PGSTAT.

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Figure 4.7 – The monitor cable for the Series 8 and the Series 7 PGSTAT

The following signals are available:

EOUT – This output corresponds to the differential potential of RE versus S 45. The
output voltage will vary between ±10 V. The output impedance is 50 Ω, so a
correction should be made if a load < 100 kΩ is connected. The minimum load
impedance is 200 Ω.

iOUT – This signal corresponds to the output of the current-to-voltage converter

circuit of the PGSTAT. A 1 V signal corresponds to {1 x the selected current range}.
The output level varies between ± 10 V. The output impedance is 50 Ω, so a
correction should be made if a load < 100 kΩ is connected. The minimum load
impedance is 200 Ω.

EIN – This is an analog voltage input, that can only be used after it has been
enabled in software, using the Autolab control command (see Figure 4.8). Do not
leave it enabled unnecessarily, to prevent noise pickup by the system. This input is
directly connected to the summation point, Σ, of the PGSTAT. In PSTAT mode, a

45
The Eout value corresponds to -WE(1).Potential.

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1 V signal will add 1 V to the cell voltage, while in GSTAT mode a 1 V signal adds
an extra current of {1 x the selected current range} to flow. In both cases, the
external signal adds to any pre-defined voltage or current. The input voltage range
is ± 10 V. Input impedance is 1 kΩ (only when input is activated) so a correction
should be made when the source impedance is > 1 Ω.

Figure 4.8 – The external input is enabled in the Autolab control window

4.3.4 – High stability, High speed and Ultra high speed

The PGSTAT is equipped with three different bandwidth settings: High stability
(HSTAB), High speed and Ultra high speed. The bandwidth can be defined using
the Autolab control command (see Figure 4.9).

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Figure 4.9 – The Autolab control window can be used to set the bandwidth of the PGSTAT

The purpose of these different modes of operation is to provide a maximum

bandwidth, maintaining stability in the PSTAT or GSTAT control loop. The normal
mode of operation is High stability 46. This gives the Control Amplifier a bandwidth
of 12.5 kHz. The HSTAB indicator on the front panel of the PGSTAT and in the
Autolab display is lit when the High stability mode is active (see Figure 4.10).

Figure 4.10 – A HSTAB indicator is provided on the Autolab display

46
Power up default setting.

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This setting is the most appropriate for measurements at low frequencies or low
scan rates. The noise in the i and E signals will be minimized. Measurements at
high frequency or at high scan rates require a faster mode of operation.

When operating in High speed mode, the control amplifier will have its bandwidth
extended with one decade up to 125 kHz. Some cells can show ringing or
oscillation using this setting, particularly highly capacitive cells in PSTAT mode.
Increasing the bandwidth also increases the noise levels for the i and E signals. The
High speed mode is automatically selected during impedance measurement at
frequencies > 10 kHz.

Note

It is possible to switch from High stability to High speed by clicking the HSTAB
label in the Autolab display. In High speed mode, this label will be unlit, both
on the front panel of the PGSTAT and on the Autolab display. Clicking the
HSTAB label again switches the bandwidth back to High stability.

For applications requiring very high bandwidth, the Ultra high speed mode can be
selected. In this mode, the control amplifier bandwidth is extended to 500 kHz
(PGSTAT12, PGSTAT128N, PGSTAT100 and PGSTAT100N) or 1.25 MHz
(PGSTAT30, PGSTAT302 and PGSTAT302N). There is a significant oscillation risk
using this setting, and the noise levels will generally show an increase relative to
the High speed or High stability mode. The Ultra high speed mode is automatically
selected during impedance measurements at frequencies > 100 kHz, while the
High stability mode is selected for frequencies below 10 kHz (see Figure 4.11).

High stability High speed Ultra high speed

10 kHz 100 kHz

Figure 4.11 – Bandwidth limits in the Autolab PGSTAT

Warning

The higher the bandwidth, the more important it is to pay attention to

adequate shielding of the cell and the electrode connectors. The use of a
Faraday cage is recommended in this case.

4.3.5 – RE input impedance and stability

The electrometer RE input contains a small capacitive load. If the capacitive part of
the impedance between CE and RE is comparatively large, phase shifts will occur
which can lead to instability problems when working in potentiostatic mode. If the

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impedance between the CE and the RE cannot be changed and oscillations are
observed, it is recommended to select the High stability mode to increase the
system stability. In general, the use of High stability leads to a more stable control
loop, compared to High speed or Ultra high speed and a significantly lower
bandwidth.

To make use of the full potentiostat bandwidth (Ultra high speed mode), the
impedance between CE and RE has to be lower than 35 kΩ 47. This value is derived
by testing. In galvanostat mode, this large impedance between CE and RE, will
usually not lead to stability problems, because of the current feedback regulation.

4.3.6 – Galvanostatic FRA measurements

The capacitive part of the impedance between RE and ground is an important

aspect to consider when performing FRA measurements in galvanostat mode.
Large reference electrode impedance values may introduce a phase shift at low
frequencies. The origin of the phase shift between the CE and the RE cannot be
determined from the FRA data.

Galvanostatic FRA measurements at 1 MHz require a maximum of 3 kΩ reference

electrode impedance to keep phase errors within the ± 5 º limit.

4.3.7 – Galvanostat, potentiostat and iR-compensation bandwidth

For galvanostatic measurements on low current ranges, the bandwidth limiting

factor becomes the current-to-voltage circuit rather than the control amplifier.

For stability reasons it is not recommended to use the High speed mode for
current ranges < 10 μA. The Ultra high speed mode is also not recommended for
current ranges < 1 mA.

As the current measurement circuit plays an important role in the iR compensation

technique, its use is also subject to bandwidth limitations.

47
Empirical value.

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A general indication of the maximum available bandwidth for GSTAT and for iR
compensation can be found in Table 4.1:

Instrument PGSTAT12/128N/100/100N PGSTAT30/302/302N

Mode GSTAT iR/C – PSTAT GSTAT iR/C – PSTAT
1 A – 1 mA > 500 kHz > 500 kHz > 1.25 MHz > 1.25 MHz
100 µA 125 kHz 500 kHz 125 kHz 1 MHz
10 µA 100 kHz 100 kHz 100 kHz 100 kHz
1 µA 10 kHz 10 kHz 10 kHz 10 kHz
100 nA 1 kHz 1 kHz 1 kHz 1 kHz
10 nA 100 Hz 100 Hz 100 Hz 100 Hz

Table 4.1 – Bandwidth overview for the different instruments

At the same time, the iR-compensation bandwidth limits indicate up to which

frequency current measurements can be made in potentiostatic mode (either with
or without iR compensation).

4.3.8 – Galvanostatic operation and current range linearity

For galvanostatic experiments, automatic current ranging is not possible. The

measurements are performed in a fixed current range. Each current range on the
instrument is characterized by a specific linearity limit and this specification
determines the maximum current that can be applied in galvanostatic mode.

The linearity limitation also applies on measurements performed in potentiostatic

mode in a fixed current range.

Table 4.2 provides an overview of the current range linearity for the different
PGSTAT instruments.

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PGSTAT12
PGSTAT302
Current range PGSTAT100 PGSTAT128N PGSTAT30
PGSTAT302N
PGSTAT100N
1A n.a. 0.8 1 2
100 mA 2.5 3 3 3
10 – 1 mA 3 3 3 3
100 – 1 µA 3 3 3 3
100 – 10 nA 3 3 3 3

Table 4.2 – Linearity limit for the different instruments

For example, in the 100 mA current range, the maximum current that can be
applied, galvanostatically, using the PGSTAT302N, is 300 mA. The maximum
current that can be measured in the 100 mA current range, using the same
instrument is 1000 mA, although currents exceeding 300 mA will be measured
outside of the linearity limit of this current range.

In galvanostatic operation, the applied current values are checked during the
procedure validation step. When the applied current exceeds the linearity limit for
the specified current range, an error message will be shown in the procedure
validation screen (see Figure 4.12).

Figure 4.12 – The procedure validation step always checks the applied current values for the
allowed linearity

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Note

In potentiostatic mode, this check is not performed. It is possible to measure a

current value in a fixed current range, even if the current value exceeds the
linearity limit of the active current range. This triggers a current overload
warning. When this happens during a measurement, a message will be shown
in the user log, suggesting a modification of the current range (see Figure
4.13).

Figure 4.13 – When a current overload is detected, a suggestion is shown in the user log

4.3.9 – Oscillation detection

The PGSTAT has a detector for large-amplitude oscillation. The detector will spot
any signal swing that causes the control amplifier to produce both a positive and a
negative Voltage overload within ~ 200 μs. Thus, large oscillations at frequencies >
2.5 kHz will be detected. Upon oscillation, the OSC indicator on the PGSTAT front
panel will be activated. The Vovl warning will also be shown in the Autolab display.
An oscillation protection feature can be enabled or disabled in the software, using
the Autolab control command (see Figure 4.14).

Figure 4.14 – The Autolab control window can be used to switch the oscillation protection
on or off

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If the oscillation protection is enabled, the occurrence of oscillation will also

immediately turn off the manual cell switch of the Autolab. When this happens,
both the OSC indicator and the manual cell switch start blinking. The Autolab
display will show the message ‘Cell manually off’ (see Figure 4.15).

Figure 4.15 – The cell manually off is displayed when the oscillation protection circuit is
triggered

The cell may be switched on again by pressing the manual cell switch button. If
oscillation resumes, the cell switch will be turned off as soon as the button is
released. Holding the button pressed in, provides an opportunity to observe the
system during oscillation.

Some cells that cause ringing when switching the cell on or changing the current
range can falsely trigger the oscillation detector. If this happens, the Oscillation
protection may be switched off in the software in order to prevent an accidental
disconnection of the cell.

4.3.10 – Maximum reference electrode voltage

The differential electrometer input contains an input protection circuitry that

becomes active after crossing the ±10 V limit. This is implemented to avoid
electrometer damage. Please note that the Vovl indicator will not light up for this
type of voltage overload. The measured voltage will be cutoff at an absolute value
of 10.00 V.

Depending on the cell properties, galvanostatic control of the cell could lead to a
potential difference between the RE and the S/WE larger than 10 V. This situation
will trigger the cutoff of the measured voltage to prevent overloading the
differential amplifier.

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4.3.11 – Active cells

Some electrochemical cells such as batteries and fuel cells are capable of delivering
power to the PGSTAT. This is allowed only to a maximum ‘cell’ power, PMAX. This
value depends on the instrument (see Table 4.3).

Instrument Maximum power, P MAX (W)

PGSTAT12 2.5
PGSTAT128N 8
PGSTAT30 10
PGSTAT302/302N 20
PGSTAT100/100N 2.5

Table 4.3 – Maximum power rating for the different PGSTAT models

This means that cells showing an absolute voltage (|Vcell|) of less than 10 V
between WE and CE are intrinsically safe. They may drive the PGSTAT output stage
into current limit but will not overload the amplifier. On the other hand, cells that
have an absolute voltage higher than 10 V between WE and CE may only deliver a
maximum current, iMAX given by:

𝑃𝑀𝐴𝑋
𝑖𝑀𝐴𝑋 =
|𝑉𝑀𝐴𝑋 |

4.3.12 – Grounded cells

The measurement circuitry of the Autolab is internally connected to protective

earth (P.E.). This can be an obstacle when measurement is desired of a cell that is
itself in contact with P.E. In such a case, undefined currents will flow through the
loop that is formed when the electrode connections from the PGSTAT are linked
to the cell and measurements will not be possible. Please note that not only a
short circuit or a resistance can make a connection to earth, but also a capacitance
is capable of providing a conductive path (for AC signals). The earth connection
between the cell and P.E. should always be broken. If there is no possibility of
doing this, please contact Metrohm Autolab for a custom solution, if available.

4.3.13 – Environmental conditions

The PGSTAT may be used at temperatures of 0 to 40 degrees Celsius. The

instrument is calibrated at 25 degrees Celsius and will show minimum errors at
that temperature. The ventilation holes on the bottom plate and on the rear panel
may never be obstructed, nor should the instrument be placed in direct sunlight or
near other sources of heat.

4.3.14 – Temperature overload

As a safety precaution, the PGSTAT is equipped with a circuit that monitors the
temperature of the internal power electronics. A temperature overload will be
displayed as a blinking indicator in the manual cell switch, with the cell

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automatically turned off. You will not be able to turn the cell back on until the
temperature inside the instrument has fallen to an acceptable level. It can then be
switched on again by pressing the manual cell switch button on the front panel.

During normal operation the temperature should never become extremely high
and no temperature overload will occur. If this does happen, the origin of the
temperature overload should be identified:

1. Is the room temperature unusually high?

2. Was the PGSTAT oscillating?
3. Is the voltage selector for mains power set to the right value?
4. Is the fan turning and are all the ventilation holes unobstructed?
5. Was the cell delivering a considerable amount of power to the PGSTAT?
6. Are the WE and CE cables shorted in PSTAT mode 48?

If a temperature overload takes place repeatedly, for no obvious reason, Metrohm

Autolab recommends having the instrument checked by their service department.

4.3.15 – Noise

When measuring low level currents, some precautions should be taken in order to
minimize noise. The personal computer must be placed as far away as possible
from the electrochemical cell and the cell cables. The cell cables should not cross
other electrical cables. Other equipment with power supplies can also cause noise.
For instance, the interface for mercury electrodes IME should also be placed with
some care. If possible place the computer between the PGSTAT and other
equipments. Avoid using unshielded extension cables to the electrodes. The use of
a Faraday cage is also advised.

If the cell system has a ground connector, it can be connected to the analog
ground connector at the front of the PGSTAT. If a Faraday cage is used, it should
be connected to this ground connector. Some experiments concerning
optimization of the signal-to-noise ratio can readily indicate whether or not a
configuration is satisfactory.

More information on noise is provided in section 4.8.

48
This must never occur!

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4.4 – Autolab PGSTAT302F information

This section provides specific information for the Autolab PGSTAT302F. The
PGSTAT302F is a special version of the Autolab PGSTAT302N which can be
operated in so-called floating mode 49. In floating mode, the PGSTAT302F can be
used to control the potential of grounded working electrodes. In this
configuration, the Autolab is floating with respect to the working electrode
sample. Additionally, the PGSTAT302F can be operated in non-floating mode in
combination with working electrode disconnected from ground.

Warning

The floating mode of the special PGSTAT302N must only be used on grounded
working electrodes. The working electrode can be grounded using the green
ground connector embedded in the CE/WE cable of the PGSTAT302F.

Warning

Instrument performance can be substantially degraded when the PGSTAT302F

is operated in floating mode. The instrument specifications provided by
Metrohm Autolab can only be achieved when the PGSTAT302F is used in non-
floating mode.

Note

Special precautions must be taken with the cell connections when the
PGSTAT302F is used in floating mode. Only the working electrode can be
connected to ground, all other electrodes must be isolated from ground.
External equipments connected to the PGSTAT302F must be isolated when the
instrument is used in floating mode. Keep in mind that grounding of external
equipment can occur through connections to a computer, if applicable (for
example through a USB or RS232 cable).

49
The compliance voltage of the PGSTAT302F is +/- 10 V in floating mode. The compliance voltage
in grounded mode is +/- 10 V with the default cell cables and +/- 30 V with optional modified cell
cables. Please contact your Autolab distributor for more information.

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4.4.1 – Front panel and cell cable connection

There are four connectors on the front panel of the PGSTAT. The cable that
connects to the WE and CE should be plugged into the WE/CE socket while the
cable with the differential amplifier (leading to the RE, S and optionally WE2
electrodes) connects to the RE/S socket. A ground cable, embedded in the WE/CE
cable connection, can be used to plug to the earth bulkhead for shielding
purposes. Finally a monitor cable can be connected to a dedicated connector (see
Figure 4.16).

On/Off button Digital display Cell On/Off switch

ADC164 DAC164 Monitor cable input RE/S socket

WE/CE/Ground socket

Figure 4.16 – Overview of the Autolab PGSTAT302F

The cell cables are labelled as follows:

• Working or indicator electrode, WE (red)

• Sense electrode, S (red)
• Reference electrode, RE (blue)
• Auxiliary or counter electrode, CE (black)

In a four electrode setup, each of the cell cable connectors is used independently.
In a three electrode set-up the working electrode and sense lead are both
connected to the working electrode. In a two electrode set-up the counter and
reference electrode lead are both connected to the same electrode (see Figure
4.17).

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RE

CE WE

RE

CE WE

RE S

CE WE

Figure 4.17 – Overview of the possible cell connections with the Autolab PGSTAT302F (from
top to bottom: two electrode, three electrode and four electrode setup)

4.4.2 – Power up

The settings of the PGSTAT on power-up are pre-defined. The following settings
are used:

• Cell: off
• Mode: Potentiostatic
• Bandwidth: High stability
• iR Compensation: off
• Current range: 10 mA

Warning

In floating mode, the iOVL warning may be lit when the cell is off. This warning
can be ignored.

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4.4.3 – Connections for analog signals

The Autolab PGSTAT302F provides connections for analog signals through two
different types of connectors:

• BNC connectors directly located on the front panel of the instrument

• BNC connectors located on the monitor cable

4.4.3.1 – Connections for analog signals (front panel)

The ADC164 module and the DAC164 module are fitted with two analog inputs
and two analog outputs, respectively (see Figure 4.18).

ADC164 DAC164

Figure 4.18 – Overview of the connections for analog signals provided on the front panel of
the Autolab PGSTAT (ADC164 and DAC164)

ADC164 – The ADC164 inputs, labelled 1 and 2 on the front panel, can be
used to record any analog signal with a ± 10 V value range. The input impedance
of the two analog inputs is 50 Ω.

DAC164 – The DAC164 outputs, labelled 1 and 2 on the front panel, can be
used to generate any analog signal with a ± 10 V value range. The output
impedance of these two inputs is 50 Ω. Corrections should be made with loads
< 100 kΩ. Because of dissipation, the minimum load impedance should be 200 Ω.

Note

The DAC164 1 and 2 outputs are identified as DAC channels 3 and 4,

respectively in the Set DAC command.

These inputs are floating when the PGSTAT302F is operated in floating mode.
Connected equipment may not be connected to ground and the shield of the BNC
cables may not be connected to safety ground.

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Avoid creating ground loops as this will often degrade the performance of the
PGSTAT302F.

4.4.3.2 – Connections for analog signals (monitor cable)

With the supplied monitor cable, there are a number of BNC connectors to the
PGSTAT analog circuits (see Figure 4.19). All the signals are with respect to
Autolab ground and indirectly to protective earth when the PGSTAT302F is
operated in normal mode.

These signals are floating when the PGSTAT302F is operated in floating mode.
Connected equipment may not be connected to ground and the shield of the BNC
cables may not be connected to safety ground.

Avoid creating ground loops as this will often degrade the performance of the
PGSTAT302F.

Figure 4.19 – The monitor cable for the PGSTAT302F

The following signals are available:

EOUT – This output corresponds to the differential potential of S versus RE 50. The
output voltage will vary between ±10 V. The output impedance is 50 Ω, so a
correction should be made if a load < 100 kΩ is connected. The minimum load
impedance is 200 Ω.

iOUT – This signal corresponds to the output of the current-to-voltage converter

circuit of the PGSTAT 51. A 1 V signal corresponds to -{1 x the selected current
range}. The output level varies between ± 10 V. The output impedance is 50 Ω, so
a correction should be made if a load < 100 kΩ is connected. The minimum load
impedance is 200 Ω.

EIN – This is an analog voltage input, that can only be used after it has been
enabled in software, using the Autolab control command (see Figure 4.20). Do not
leave it enabled unnecessarily, to prevent noise pickup by the system. This input is
directly connected to the summation point, Σ, of the PGSTAT. In PSTAT mode, a

50
The Eout value corresponds to WE(1).Potential.
51
The iout value corresponds to -WE(1).Current.

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1 V signal will add -1 V to the cell voltage, while in GSTAT mode a 1 V signal adds
an extra current of -{1 x the selected current range} to flow. In both cases, the
external signal adds to any pre-defined voltage or current. The input voltage range
is ± 10 V. Input impedance is 1 kΩ (only when input is activated) so a correction
should be made when the source impedance is > 1 Ω.

Figure 4.20 – The external input is enabled in the Autolab control window

4.4.4 – High stability and High speed

The PGSTAT302F is equipped with two different bandwidth settings: High stability
(HSTAB) and High speed. The bandwidth can be defined using the Autolab control
command (see Figure 4.21).

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Figure 4.21 – The Autolab control window can be used to set the bandwidth of the PGSTAT

The purpose of these different modes of operation is to provide a maximum

bandwidth, maintaining stability in the PSTAT or GSTAT control loop. The normal
mode of operation is High stability 52. This gives the Control Amplifier a bandwidth
of 12.5 kHz. The HSTAB indicator on the front panel of the PGSTAT and in the
Autolab display is lit when the High stability mode is active (see Figure 4.22).

Figure 4.22 – A HSTAB indicator is provided on the Autolab display

52
Power up default setting.

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This setting is the most appropriate for measurements at low frequencies or low
scan rates. The noise in the i and E signals will be minimized. Measurements at
high frequency or at high scan rates require a faster mode of operation.

When operating in High speed mode, the control amplifier will have its bandwidth
extended with one decade up to 125 kHz. Some cells can show ringing or
oscillation using this setting, particularly highly capacitive cells in PSTAT mode.
Increasing the bandwidth also increases the noise levels for the i and E signals. The
High speed mode is automatically selected during impedance measurement at
frequencies > 10 kHz.

Note

It is possible to switch from High stability to High speed by clicking the HSTAB
label in the Autolab display. In High speed mode, this label will be unlit, both
on the front panel of the PGSTAT and on the Autolab display. Clicking the
HSTAB label again switches the bandwidth back to High stability.

The High speed mode is automatically selected during impedance measurements

at frequencies > 10 kHz, while the High stability mode is selected for frequencies
below 10 kHz (see Figure 4.23).

High stability High speed

10 kHz

Figure 4.23 – Bandwidth limits in the Autolab PGSTAT302F

Warning

The higher the bandwidth, the more important it is to pay attention to

adequate shielding of the cell and the electrode connectors. The use of a
Faraday cage is recommended in this case.

4.4.5 – RE input impedance and stability

The electrometer RE input contains a small capacitive load. If the capacitive part of
the impedance between CE and RE is comparatively large, phase shifts will occur
which can lead to instability problems when working in potentiostatic mode. If the
impedance between the CE and the RE cannot be changed and oscillations are
observed, it is recommended to select the High stability mode to increase the
system stability. In general, the use of High stability leads to a more stable control
loop, compared to High speed or Ultra high speed and a significantly lower
bandwidth.

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To make use of the full potentiostat bandwidth (High speed mode), the
impedance between CE and RE has to be lower than 35 kΩ 53. This value is derived
by testing. In galvanostat mode, this large impedance between CE and RE, will
usually not lead to stability problems, because of the current feedback regulation.

4.4.6 – Galvanostatic FRA measurements

The capacitive part of the impedance between RE and ground is an important

aspect to consider when performing FRA measurements in galvanostat mode.
Large reference electrode impedance values may introduce a phase shift at low
frequencies. The origin of the phase shift between the CE and the RE cannot be
determined from the FRA data.

Galvanostatic FRA measurements at 1 MHz require a maximum of 3 kΩ reference

electrode impedance to keep phase errors within the ± 5 º limit.

4.4.7 – Galvanostat, potentiostat and iR-compensation bandwidth

For galvanostatic measurements on low current ranges, the bandwidth limiting

factor becomes the current-to-voltage circuit rather than the control amplifier.

For stability reasons it is not recommended to use the High speed mode for
current ranges < 10 μA.

As the current measurement circuit plays an important role in the iR compensation

technique, its use is also subject to bandwidth limitations. A general indication of
the maximum available bandwidth for GSTAT and for iR compensation can be
found in Table 4.4:

Mode GSTAT iR/C - PSTAT

1 A – 1 mA > 500 kHz > 500 kHz
100 µA 125 kHz 500 kHz
10 µA 100 kHz 100 kHz
1 µA 10 kHz 10 kHz
100 nA 1 kHz 1 kHz
10 nA 100 Hz 100 Hz

Table 4.4 – Bandwidth overview for the PGSTAT302F

At the same time, the iR-compensation bandwidth limits indicate up to which

frequency current measurements can be made in potentiostatic mode (either with
or without iR compensation).

53
Empirical value.

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4.4.8 – Galvanostatic operation and current range linearity

For galvanostatic experiments, automatic current ranging is not possible. The

measurements are performed in a fixed current range. Each current range on the
instrument is characterized by a specific linearity limit and this specification
determines the maximum current that can be applied in galvanostatic mode.

The linearity limitation also applies on measurements performed in potentiostatic

mode in a fixed current range.

Table 4.5 provides an overview of the current range linearity for the PGSTAT302F.

Current range Linearity

1A 2
100 mA 3
10 – 1 mA 3
100 – 1 µA 3
100 – 10 nA 3

Table 4.5 – Linearity limit for the PGSTAT302F

For example, in the 100 mA current range, the maximum current that can be
applied, galvanostatically, using the PGSTAT302F, is 300 mA. The maximum
current that can be measured in the 100 mA current range, using the same
instrument is 1000 mA, although currents exceeding 300 mA will be measured
outside of the linearity limit of this current range.

In galvanostatic operation, the applied current values are checked during the
procedure validation step. When the applied current exceeds the linearity limit for
the specified current range, an error message will be shown in the procedure
validation screen (see Figure 4.24).

Figure 4.24 – The procedure validation step always checks the applied current values for the
allowed linearity

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Note

In potentiostatic mode, this check is not performed. It is possible to measure a

current value in a fixed current range, even if the current value exceeds the
linearity limit of the active current range. This triggers a current overload
warning. When this happens during a measurement, a message will be shown
in the user log, suggesting a modification of the current range (see Figure
4.25).

Figure 4.25 – When a current overload is detected, a suggestion is shown in the user log

4.4.9 – Oscillation detection

The PGSTAT302F has a detector for large-amplitude oscillation. The detector will
spot any signal swing that causes the control amplifier to produce both a positive
and a negative Voltage overload within ~ 200 μs. Thus, large oscillations at
frequencies > 2.5 kHz will be detected. Upon oscillation, the OSC indicator on the
PGSTAT front panel will be activated. The Vovl warning will also be shown in the
Autolab display. An oscillation protection feature can be enabled or disabled in the
software, using the Autolab control command (see Figure 4.26).

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Figure 4.26 – The Autolab control window can be used to switch the oscillation protection
on or off

If the oscillation protection is enabled, the occurrence of oscillation will also

immediately turn off the manual cell switch of the Autolab. When this happens,
both the OSC indicator and the manual cell switch start blinking. The Autolab
display will show the message ‘Cell manually off’ (see Figure 4.27).

Figure 4.27 – The cell manually off is displayed when the oscillation protection circuit is
triggered

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The cell may be switched on again by pressing the manual cell switch button. If
oscillation resumes, the cell switch will be turned off as soon as the button is
released. Holding the button pressed in, provides an opportunity to observe the
system during oscillation.

Some cells that cause ringing when switching the cell on or changing the current
range can falsely trigger the oscillation detector. If this happens, the Oscillation
protection may be switched off in the software in order to prevent an accidental
disconnection of the cell.

4.4.10 – Maximum reference electrode voltage

The differential electrometer input contains an input protection circuitry that

becomes active after crossing the ±10 V limit. This is implemented to avoid
electrometer damage. Please note that the Vovl indicator will not light up for this
type of voltage overload. The measured voltage will be cutoff at an absolute value
of 10.00 V.

Depending on the cell properties, galvanostatic control of the cell could lead to a
potential difference between the RE and the S/WE larger than 10 V. This situation
will trigger the cutoff of the measured voltage to prevent overloading the
differential amplifier.

4.4.11 – Active cells

Some electrochemical cells such as batteries and fuel cells are capable of delivering
power to the PGSTAT302F. This is allowed only to a maximum ‘cell’ power, PMAX of
20 W.

This means that cells showing an absolute voltage (|Vcell|) of less than 10 V
between WE and CE are intrinsically safe. They may drive the PGSTAT output stage
into current limit but will not overload the amplifier. On the other hand, cells that
have an absolute voltage higher than 10 V between WE and CE may only deliver a
maximum current, iMAX given by:

𝑃𝑀𝐴𝑋
𝑖𝑀𝐴𝑋 =
|𝑉𝑀𝐴𝑋 |

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4.4.12 – Grounded cells and grounded working electrodes

The PGSTAT302F can be operated in two different modes:

• Normal mode: this mode corresponds to the operating mode using in all
the PGSTAT instruments. For more information on the restrictions applying
to this mode, please refer to section 4.3.12.
• Floating mode: this mode is only available on the PGSTAT302F. In this
mode, measurement circuitry of the Autolab is internally disconnected to
protective earth (P.E.). This allows the instrument to be used in
combination with a grounded working electrode or a grounded cell.

The PGSTAT302F can be set to either normal mode or floating mode using a
dedicated short-circuit plug on the back plane of the instrument (see Figure 4.28).
When the short-circuit plug is connected as shown in Figure 4.28, the instrument
operates in normal mode. When the short-circuit plug is disconnected from the
back panel, the instrument operates in floating mode.

Figure 4.28 – The PGSTAT302F can be set to normal mode (left) or to floating mode (right)
using the provided short-circuit plug

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4.4.13 – Environmental conditions

The PGSTAT302F may be used at temperatures of 0 to 40 degrees Celsius. The

instrument is calibrated at 25 degrees Celsius and will show minimum errors at
that temperature. The ventilation holes on the bottom plate and on the rear panel
may never be obstructed, nor should the instrument be placed in direct sunlight or
near other sources of heat.

4.4.14 – Temperature overload

As a safety precaution, the PGSTAT302F is equipped with a circuit that monitors

the temperature of the internal power electronics. A temperature overload will be
displayed as a blinking indicator in the manual cell switch, with the cell
automatically turned off. You will not be able to turn the cell back on until the
temperature inside the instrument has fallen to an acceptable level. It can then be
switched on again by pressing the manual cell switch button on the front panel.

During normal operation the temperature should never become extremely high
and no temperature overload will occur. If this does happen, the origin of the
temperature overload should be identified:

1. Is the room temperature unusually high?

2. Was the PGSTAT oscillating?
3. Is the voltage selector for mains power set to the right value?
4. Is the fan turning and are all the ventilation holes unobstructed?
5. Was the cell delivering a considerable amount of power to the PGSTAT?
6. Are the WE and CE cables shorted in PSTAT mode 54?

If a temperature overload takes place repeatedly, for no obvious reason, Metrohm

Autolab recommends having the instrument checked by their service department.

4.4.15 – Noise

When measuring low level currents, some precautions should be taken in order to
minimize noise. The personal computer must be placed as far away as possible
from the electrochemical cell and the cell cables. The cell cables should not cross
other electrical cables. Other equipment with power supplies can also cause noise.
For instance, the interface for mercury electrodes IME should also be placed with
some care. If possible place the computer between the PGSTAT302F and other
equipments. Avoid using unshielded extension cables to the electrodes. The use of
a Faraday cage is also advised.

54
This must never occur!

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Warning

Instrument performance can be substantially degraded when the PGSTAT302F

is operated in floating mode. The instrument specifications provided by
Metrohm Autolab can only be achieved when the PGSTAT302F is used in non-
floating mode.

If the cell system has a ground connector, it can be connected to the analog
ground connector at the front of the PGSTAT302F. If a Faraday cage is used, it
should be connected to this ground connector. Some experiments concerning
optimization of the signal-to-noise ratio can readily indicate whether or not a
configuration is satisfactory.

More information on noise is provided in Section 4.8.

4.5 – Autolab PGSTAT101 and M101 information

This section provides specific information for the Autolab PGSTAT101 and the
M101 potentiostat/galvanostat module for the Multi Autolab.

4.5.1 – Front panel and cell cable connection (PGSTAT101)

There are two connectors on the front panel of the PGSTAT101. The cell cable
should be plugged into the CELL socket on the front panel of the instrument. The
I/O socket on the front panel can be used to connect the optional I/O cable (see
Figure 4.29).

POTENTIOSTAT
GALVANOSTAT

Status LED
PGSTAT101

I/O cable socket

I/O

Cell cable socket

CELL

Figure 4.29 – Overview of the Autolab PGSTAT101 (front)

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The cell cable is labelled as follows:

• Working or indicator electrode, WE (red)

• Sense electrode, S (red)
• Reference electrode, RE (blue)
• Auxiliary or counter electrode, CE (black)

An additional ground connection (for shielding purposes, e.g. a Faraday cage) is

also provided with the cell cable.

In a four electrode setup, each of the cell cable connectors is used independently.
In a three electrode set-up the working electrode and sense lead are both
connected to the working electrode. In a two electrode set-up the counter and
reference electrode lead are both connected to the same electrode (see Figure
4.30).

RE

CE WE

RE

CE WE

RE S

CE WE

Figure 4.30 – Overview of the possible cell connections with the Autolab PGSTAT101 (from
top to bottom: two electrode, three electrode and four electrode setup)

4.5.2 – Front panel and cell cable connection (M101)

The M101 potentiostat/galvanostat module can be installed in the Multi Autolab

frame, up to a maximum of 12 modules in a single frame. The M101 is identical in

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specification to the PGSTAT101. All information provided in the rest of section 4.5
applies to both the PGSTAT101 and the M101 55 installed in the Multi Autolab.

There are three connectors on the front panel of each M101 module installed in
the Multi Autolab (see Figure 4.31).

DIO cable socket I/O cable socket

Status LED Cell cable socket

Figure 4.31 – Overview of the M101 (front) in Multi Autolab frame

Each M101 module is identified by a module label on the front panel, indicating
the location and the purpose of each connector (see Figure 4.32)

Cell status LED

Figure 4.32 – Detailed view of the M101 module label

55
In the rest of this section, the M101 and PGSTAT101 will be referred to as PGSTAT101.

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The cell cable should be plugged into the lowest socket, labelled by the symbol ,
on the front panel of the module. The I/O socket on the front panel can be used to
connect the optional I/O cable. The DIO cable, used to connect to the optional
IME663 or IME303 or for TTL triggering, can be connected to the DIO connector
on the front panel.

Note

Specific information on Multi Autolab can be found in the Multi Autolab

tutorial, available from the Help menu.

The cell cable is labelled as follows:

• Working or indicator electrode, WE (red)

• Sense electrode, S (red)
• Reference electrode, RE (blue)
• Auxiliary or counter electrode, CE (black)

An additional ground connection (for shielding purposes, e.g. a Faraday cage) is

also provided with the cell cable.

In a four electrode setup, each of the cell cable connectors is used independently.
In a three electrode set-up the working electrode and sense lead are both
connected to the working electrode. In a two electrode set-up the counter and
reference electrode lead are both connected to the same electrode (see Figure
4.30).

4.5.3 – Power up

The settings of the PGSTAT101 on power-up are pre-defined. The following

settings are used:

• Cell: off
• Mode: Potentiostatic
• Bandwidth: High stability
• iR Compensation: off
• Current range: 1 µA

4.5.4 – Connections for analog signals

With the optional I/O cable, four additional connections are provided to the
PGSTAT101 analog circuits (see Figure 4.33). All the signals are with respect to
Autolab ground and indirectly to protective earth. Avoid creating ground loops as
this will often degrade the performance of the PGSTAT.

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Figure 4.33 – The optional I/O cable for the PGSTAT101 (top) and M101 (bottom)

The following signals are available:

EOUT – This output corresponds to the differential potential of RE versus S 56. The
output voltage will vary between ±10 V. The output impedance is 1 kΩ, so a
correction should be made if a load < 2 MΩ is connected. The maximum
bandwidth is 300 kHz.

iOUT – This signal corresponds to the inverted output of the current-to-voltage

converter circuit of the PGSTAT101 57. A 1 V signal corresponds to {-1 x the
selected current range}. The output level varies between ± 10 V. The output
impedance is 50 Ω, so a correction should be made if a load < 100 kΩ is
connected. The minimum load impedance is 200 Ω.

VOUT – This output corresponds to the DAC output. It is controlled by software and
is meant to be used to control external devices, like the rotating speed of a

56
The Eout value corresponds to -WE(1).Potential.
57
The iout value corresponds to -WE(1).Current/Current range.

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Rotating Disc Electrode (RDE). The output level varies between ±10 V and the
output impedance is very low, < 1 Ω. The output amplifier is capable of providing
5 mA at full scale, so load impedance should be > 2 kΩ.

VIN – This input corresponds to the ADC input. This input can be used for
measuring a second signal. The input range is ±10 V and the input impedance is
50 Ω.

4.5.5 – High stability, High speed and Ultra high speed

The PGSTAT101 is equipped with three different bandwidth settings: High stability
(HSTAB), High speed and Ultra high speed. The bandwidth can be defined using
the Autolab control command (see Figure 4.34).

Figure 4.34 – The Autolab control window can be used to set the bandwidth of the
PGSTAT101

The purpose of these different modes of operation is to provide a maximum

bandwidth, maintaining stability in the PSTAT or GSTAT control loop. The normal
mode of operation is High stability 58. This gives the Control Amplifier a bandwidth
of 12.5 kHz. The HSTAB indicator in the Autolab display is lit when the High
stability mode is active (see Figure 4.35).

58
Power up default setting.

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Figure 4.35 – A HSTAB indicator is provided on the Autolab display

This setting is the most appropriate for measurements at low frequencies or low
scan rates. The noise in the i and E signals will be minimized. Measurements at
high frequency or at high scan rates require a faster mode of operation.

When operating in High speed mode, the control amplifier will have its bandwidth
extended with one decade up to 125 kHz. Some cells can show ringing or
oscillation using this setting, particularly highly capacitive cells in PSTAT mode.
Increasing the bandwidth also increases the noise levels for the i and E signals.

Note

It is possible to switch from High stability to High speed by clicking the HSTAB
label in the Autolab display. In High speed mode, this label will be unlit on the
Autolab display. Clicking the HSTAB label again switches the bandwidth back to
High stability.

For applications requiring very high bandwidth, the Ultra high speed mode can be
selected. In this mode, the control amplifier bandwidth is extended to 1 MHz.
There is a significant oscillation risk using this setting, and the noise levels will
generally show an increase relative to the High speed or High stability mode.

Warning

The higher the bandwidth, the more important it is to pay attention to

adequate shielding of the cell and the electrode connectors. The use of a
Faraday cage is recommended in this case.

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4.5.6 – RE input impedance and stability

The electrometer RE input contains a small capacitive load. If the capacitive part of
the impedance between CE and RE is comparatively large, phase shifts will occur
which can lead to instability problems when working in potentiostatic mode. If the
impedance between the CE and the RE cannot be changed and oscillations are
observed, it is recommended to select the High stability mode to increase the
system stability. In general, the use of High stability leads to a more stable control
loop, compared to High speed or Ultra high speed and a significantly lower
bandwidth.

To make use of the full potentiostat bandwidth (Ultra high speed mode), the
impedance between CE and RE has to be lower than 35 kΩ 59. This value is derived
by testing. In galvanostat mode, this large impedance between CE and RE, will
usually not lead to stability problems, because of the current feedback regulation.

4.5.7 – Galvanostat, potentiostat and iR-compensation bandwidth

For galvanostatic measurements on low current ranges, the bandwidth limiting

factor becomes the current-to-voltage circuit rather than the control amplifier.

For stability reasons it is not recommended to use the High speed mode for
current ranges < 10 μA. The Ultra high speed mode is also not recommended for
current ranges < 1 mA.

As the current measurement circuit plays an important role in the iR compensation

technique, its use is also subject to bandwidth limitations. A general indication of
the maximum available bandwidth for GSTAT and for iR compensation can be
found in Table 4.6:

Mode GSTAT iR/C - PSTAT

10 mA – 1 mA > 1 MHz > 1 MHz
100 µA 1 MHz 1 MHz
10 µA 10 kHz 75 kHz
1 µA 10 kHz 20 kHz
100 nA 400 Hz 4 kHz
10 nA 400 Hz 400 Hz

Table 4.6 – Bandwidth overview for the PGSTAT101

At the same time, the iR-compensation bandwidth limits indicate up to which

frequency current measurements can be made in potentiostatic mode (either with
or without iR compensation).

59
Empirical value.

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4.5.8 – Galvanostatic operation and current range linearity

For galvanostatic experiments, automatic current ranging is not possible. The

measurements are performed in a fixed current range. Each current range on the
instrument is characterized by a specific linearity limit and this specification
determines the maximum current that can be applied in galvanostatic mode.

The linearity limitation also applies on measurements performed in potentiostatic

mode in a fixed current range.

Table 4.7 provides an overview of the current range linearity for the PGSTAT101.

Current range Linearity

10 mA 10
1 mA 7
10 – 1 mA 7
100 – 1 µA 7
100 – 10 nA 7

Table 4.7 – Linearity limit for the PGSTAT101

For example, in the 1 mA current range, the maximum current that can be
applied, galvanostatically, using the PGSTAT101, is 7 mA. The maximum current
that can be measured in the 1 mA current range is 10 mA, although currents
exceeding 7 mA will be measured outside of the linearity limit of this current
range.

In galvanostatic operation, the applied current values are checked during the
procedure validation step. When the applied current exceeds the linearity limit for
the specified current range, an error message will be shown in the procedure
validation screen (see Figure 4.36).

Figure 4.36 – The procedure validation step always checks the applied current values for the
allowed linearity

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Note

In potentiostatic mode, this check is not performed. It is possible to measure a

current value in a fixed current range, even if the current value exceeds the
linearity limit of the active current range. This triggers a current overload
warning. When this happens during a measurement, a message will be shown
in the user log, suggesting a modification of the current range (see Figure
4.37).

Figure 4.37 – When a current overload is detected, a suggestion is shown in the user log

4.5.9 – Maximum reference electrode voltage

The differential electrometer input contains an input protection circuitry that

becomes active after crossing the ±10 V limit. This is implemented to avoid
electrometer damage. The red status LED indicator on the front panel not light up
for this type of voltage overload. The measured voltage will be cutoff at an
absolute value of 10.00 V.

Depending on the cell properties, galvanostatic control of the cell could lead to a
potential difference between the RE and the S/WE larger than 10 V. This situation
will trigger the cutoff of the measured voltage to prevent overloading the
differential amplifier.

4.5.10 – Active cells

Some electrochemical cells such as batteries and fuel cells are capable of delivering
power to the PGSTAT101. This is allowed only to a maximum ‘cell’ power, PMAX of
8 W.

This means that cells showing an absolute voltage (|Vcell|) of less than 10 V
between WE and CE are intrinsically safe. They may drive the PGSTAT101 output
stage into current limit but will not overload the amplifier. On the other hand, cells
that have an absolute voltage higher than 10 V between WE and CE may only
deliver a maximum current, iMAX given by:

𝑃𝑀𝐴𝑋
𝑖𝑀𝐴𝑋 =
|𝑉𝑀𝐴𝑋 |

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4.5.11 – Grounded cells

The measurement circuitry of the Autolab is internally connected to protective

earth (P.E.). This can be an obstacle when measurement is desired of a cell that is
itself in contact with P.E. In such a case, undefined currents will flow through the
loop that is formed when the electrode connections from the PGSTAT101 are
linked to the cell and measurements will not be possible. Please note that not only
a short circuit or a resistance can make a connection to earth, but also a
capacitance is capable of providing a conductive path (for AC signals). The earth
connection between the cell and P.E. should always be broken. If there is no
possibility of doing this, please contact Metrohm Autolab for a custom solution, if
available.

4.5.12 – Environmental conditions

The PGSTAT101 may be used at temperatures of 0 to 40 degrees Celsius. The

instrument is calibrated at 25 degrees Celsius and will show minimum errors at
that temperature. The ventilation holes on the bottom plate and on the rear panel
may never be obstructed, nor should the instrument be placed in direct sunlight or
near other sources of heat.

4.5.13 – Noise

When measuring low level currents, some precautions should be taken in order to
minimize noise. The personal computer must be placed as far away as possible
from the electrochemical cell and the cell cables. The cell cables should not cross
other electrical cables. Other equipment with power supplies can also cause noise.
For instance, the interface for mercury electrodes IME should also be placed with
some care. If possible place the computer between the PGSTAT101 and other
equipments. Avoid using unshielded extension cables to the electrodes. The use of
a Faraday cage is also advised.

If the cell system has a ground connector, it can be connected to the analog
ground connector provided with the cell cable of the PGSTAT101. If a Faraday
cage is used, it should be connected to this ground connector. Some experiments
concerning optimization of the signal-to-noise ratio can readily indicate whether
or not a configuration is satisfactory.

More information on noise is provided in section 4.8.

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4.6 – Autolab PGSTAT204 information

This section provides specific information for the Autolab PGSTAT204.

4.6.1 – Front panel and cell cable connections

The PGSTAT204 potentiostat/galvanostat module is installed into the Autolab

PGSTAT204 instrument, alongside one optional module. From the front view, the
PGSTAT204 module is always installed in the leftmost module bay. There are three
connectors on the front panel of the PGSTAT204 module (see Figure 4.38).

Figure 4.38 – Overview of the PGSTAT204 module (front)

The cell cable should be plugged into the lowest socket, labelled by the symbol ,
on the front panel of the PGSTAT204 module. The I/O socket on the front panel
can be used to connect the optional I/O cable. The DIO cable, used to connect to
the optional IME663 or IME303 or for TTL triggering, can be connected to the DIO
connector on the front panel.

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The cell cable is labelled as follows:

• Working or indicator electrode, WE (red)

• Sense electrode, S (red)
• Reference electrode, RE (blue)
• Auxiliary or counter electrode, CE (black)

An additional ground connection (for shielding purposes, e.g. a Faraday cage) is

also provided with the cell cable.

In a four electrode setup, each of the cell cable connectors is used independently.
In a three electrode set-up the working electrode and sense lead are both
connected to the working electrode. In a two electrode set-up the counter and
reference electrode lead are both connected to the same electrode (see Figure
4.39).

RE

CE WE

RE

CE WE

RE S

CE WE

Figure 4.39 – Overview of the possible cell connections with the Autolab PGSTAT204 (from
top to bottom: two electrode, three electrode and four electrode setup)

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4.6.2 – Power up

The settings of the PGSTAT204 on power-up are pre-defined. The following

settings are used:

• Cell: off
• Mode: Potentiostatic
• Bandwidth: High stability
• iR Compensation: off
• Current range: 1 µA

4.6.3 – Connections for analog signals

With the optional I/O cable, four additional connections are provided to the
PGSTAT204 analog circuits (see Figure 4.40). All the signals are with respect to
Autolab ground and indirectly to protective earth. Avoid creating ground loops as
this will often degrade the performance of the PGSTAT.

Figure 4.40 – The optional I/O cable for the PGSTAT204

The following signals are available:

EOUT – This output corresponds to the differential potential of RE versus S 60. The
output voltage will vary between ±10 V. The output impedance is 1 kΩ, so a
correction should be made if a load < 2 MΩ is connected. The maximum
bandwidth is 300 kHz.

iOUT – This signal corresponds to the inverted output of the current-to-voltage

converter circuit of the PGSTAT204 61. A 1 V signal corresponds to {-1 x the
selected current range}. The output level varies between ± 10 V. The output

60
The Eout value corresponds to -WE(1).Potential.
61
The iout value corresponds to -WE(1).Current/Current range.

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impedance is 50 Ω, so a correction should be made if a load < 100 kΩ is

connected. The minimum load impedance is 200 Ω.

VOUT – This output corresponds to the DAC output. It is controlled by software and
is meant to be used to control external devices, like the rotating speed of a
Rotating Disc Electrode (RDE). The output level varies between ±10 V and the
output impedance is very low, < 1 Ω. The output amplifier is capable of providing
5 mA at full scale, so load impedance should be > 2 kΩ.

VIN – This input corresponds to the ADC input. This input can be used for
measuring a second signal. The input range is ±10 V and the input impedance is
50 Ω.

4.6.4 – High stability, High speed and Ultra high speed

The PGSTAT204 is equipped with three different bandwidth settings: High stability
(HSTAB), High speed and Ultra high speed. The bandwidth can be defined using
the Autolab control command (see Figure 4.41).

Figure 4.41 – The Autolab control window can be used to set the bandwidth of the
PGSTAT204

The purpose of these different modes of operation is to provide a maximum

bandwidth, maintaining stability in the PSTAT or GSTAT control loop. The normal
mode of operation is High stability 62. This gives the Control Amplifier a bandwidth
of 12.5 kHz. The HSTAB indicator in the Autolab display is lit when the High
stability mode is active (see Figure 4.42).

62
Power up default setting.

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Figure 4.42 – A HSTAB indicator is provided on the Autolab display

This setting is the most appropriate for measurements at low frequencies or low
scan rates. The noise in the i and E signals will be minimized. Measurements at
high frequency or at high scan rates require a faster mode of operation.

When operating in High speed mode, the control amplifier will have its bandwidth
extended with one decade up to 125 kHz. Some cells can show ringing or
oscillation using this setting, particularly highly capacitive cells in PSTAT mode.
Increasing the bandwidth also increases the noise levels for the i and E signals.

Note

It is possible to switch from High stability to High speed by clicking the HSTAB
label in the Autolab display. In High speed mode, this label will be unlit on the
Autolab display. Clicking the HSTAB label again switches the bandwidth back to
High stability.

For applications requiring very high bandwidth, the Ultra high speed mode can be
selected. In this mode, the control amplifier bandwidth is extended to 1 MHz.
There is a significant oscillation risk using this setting, and the noise levels will
generally show an increase relative to the High speed or High stability mode.

Warning

The higher the bandwidth, the more important it is to pay attention to

adequate shielding of the cell and the electrode connectors. The use of a
Faraday cage is recommended in this case.

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4.6.5 – RE input impedance and stability

The electrometer RE input contains a small capacitive load. If the capacitive part of
the impedance between CE and RE is comparatively large, phase shifts will occur
which can lead to instability problems when working in potentiostatic mode. If the
impedance between the CE and the RE cannot be changed and oscillations are
observed, it is recommended to select the High stability mode to increase the
system stability. In general, the use of High stability leads to a more stable control
loop, compared to High speed or Ultra high speed and a significantly lower
bandwidth.

To make use of the full potentiostat bandwidth (Ultra high speed mode), the
impedance between CE and RE has to be lower than 35 kΩ 63. This value is derived
by testing. In galvanostat mode, this large impedance between CE and RE, will
usually not lead to stability problems, because of the current feedback regulation.

4.6.6 – Galvanostat, potentiostat and iR-compensation bandwidth

For galvanostatic measurements on low current ranges, the bandwidth limiting

factor becomes the current-to-voltage circuit rather than the control amplifier.

For stability reasons it is not recommended to use the High speed mode for
current ranges < 10 μA. The Ultra high speed mode is also not recommended for
current ranges < 1 mA.

As the current measurement circuit plays an important role in the iR compensation

technique, its use is also subject to bandwidth limitations. A general indication of
the maximum available bandwidth for GSTAT and for iR compensation can be
found in Table 4.8:

Mode GSTAT iR/C - PSTAT

100 mA – 100 µA > 1 MHz > 1 MHz
10 µA 10 kHz 50 kHz
1 µA 10 kHz 50 kHz
100 nA 500 Hz 500 Hz
10 nA 500 Hz 500 Hz

Table 4.8 – Bandwidth overview for the PGSTAT204

At the same time, the iR-compensation bandwidth limits indicate up to which

frequency current measurements can be made in potentiostatic mode (either with
or without iR compensation).

4.6.7 – Galvanostatic operation and current range linearity

For galvanostatic experiments, automatic current ranging is not possible. The

measurements are performed in a fixed current range. Each current range on the

63
Empirical value.

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instrument is characterized by a specific linearity limit and this specification

determines the maximum current that can be applied in galvanostatic mode.

The linearity limitation also applies on measurements performed in potentiostatic

mode in a fixed current range.

Table 4.9 provides an overview of the current range linearity for the PGSTAT204.

Current range Linearity

100 mA 4
10 mA 7
1 mA 7
10 – 1 mA 7
100 – 1 µA 7
100 – 10 nA 7

Table 4.9 – Linearity limit for the PGSTAT204

For example, in the 1 mA current range, the maximum current that can be
applied, galvanostatically, using the PGSTAT204, is 7 mA. The maximum current
that can be measured in the 1 mA current range is 10 mA, although currents
exceeding 7 mA will be measured outside of the linearity limit of this current
range.

In galvanostatic operation, the applied current values are checked during the
procedure validation step. When the applied current exceeds the linearity limit for
the specified current range, an error message will be shown in the procedure
validation screen (see Figure 4.43).

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Figure 4.43 – The procedure validation step always checks the applied current values for the
allowed linearity

Note

In potentiostatic mode, this check is not performed. It is possible to measure a

current value in a fixed current range, even if the current value exceeds the
linearity limit of the active current range. This triggers a current overload
warning. When this happens during a measurement, a message will be shown
in the user log, suggesting a modification of the current range (see Figure
4.44).

Figure 4.44 – When a current overload is detected, a suggestion is shown in the user log

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4.6.8 – Maximum reference electrode voltage

The differential electrometer input contains an input protection circuitry that

becomes active after crossing the ±10 V limit. This is implemented to avoid
electrometer damage. The red status LED indicator on the front panel will not light
up for this type of voltage overload. The measured voltage will be cutoff at an
absolute value of 10.00 V.

Depending on the cell properties, galvanostatic control of the cell could lead to a
potential difference between the RE and the S/WE larger than 10 V. This situation
will trigger the cutoff of the measured voltage to prevent overloading the
differential amplifier.

4.6.9 – Active cells

Some electrochemical cells such as batteries and fuel cells are capable of delivering
power to the PGSTAT204. This is allowed only to a maximum ‘cell’ power, PMAX of
8 W.

This means that cells showing an absolute voltage (|Vcell|) of less than 10 V
between WE and CE are intrinsically safe. They may drive the PGSTAT204 output
stage into current limit but will not overload the amplifier. On the other hand, cells
that have an absolute voltage higher than 10 V between WE and CE may only
deliver a maximum current, iMAX given by:

𝑃𝑀𝐴𝑋
𝑖𝑀𝐴𝑋 =
|𝑉𝑀𝐴𝑋 |

4.6.10 – Grounded cells

The measurement circuitry of the Autolab is internally connected to protective

earth (P.E.). This can be an obstacle when measurement is desired of a cell that is
itself in contact with P.E. In such a case, undefined currents will flow through the
loop that is formed when the electrode connections from the PGSTAT204 are
linked to the cell and measurements will not be possible. Please note that not only
a short circuit or a resistance can make a connection to earth, but also a
capacitance is capable of providing a conductive path (for AC signals). The earth
connection between the cell and P.E. should always be broken. If there is no
possibility of doing this, please contact Metrohm Autolab for a custom solution, if
available.

4.6.11 – Environmental conditions

The PGSTAT204 may be used at temperatures of 0 to 40 degrees Celsius. The

instrument is calibrated at 25 degrees Celsius and will show minimum errors at
that temperature. The ventilation holes on the bottom plate and on the rear panel
may never be obstructed, nor should the instrument be placed in direct sunlight or
near other sources of heat.

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4.6.12 – Noise

When measuring low level currents, some precautions should be taken in order to
minimize noise. The personal computer must be placed as far away as possible
from the electrochemical cell and the cell cables. The cell cables should not cross
other electrical cables. Other equipment with power supplies can also cause noise.
For instance, the interface for mercury electrodes IME should also be placed with
some care. If possible place the computer between the PGSTAT204 and other
equipments. Avoid using unshielded extension cables to the electrodes. The use of
a Faraday cage is also advised.

If the cell system has a ground connector, it can be connected to the analog
ground connector provided with the cell cable of the PGSTAT204. If a Faraday
cage is used, it should be connected to this ground connector. Some experiments
concerning optimization of the signal-to-noise ratio can readily indicate whether
or not a configuration is satisfactory.

More information on noise is provided in Section 4.8.

4.6.13 – Temperature overload

The PGSTAT204 is fitted with a temperature overload protection circuit. When the
instrument reaches the maximum operating temperature, the protection circuit
will trigger and the cell will be disconnected. The instrument will then enter in
predefined safe mode and it will no longer be possible to switch the cell on. To
reset the instrument, the device must be switched off, allowed to cool and then
switched on again.

When the temperature overload circuit is triggered, the status LED on the front
panel of the PGSTAT204 will be lit red and the corresponding indicator in the
Autolab display will also be lit (see Figure 4.45).

Figure 4.45 – The T ovl indicator is let when the temperature overload circuit is triggered

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4.7 – µAutolab information

This section provides specific information for the µAutolab 64.

4.7.1 – Front panel and cell cable connection

There is a single connector on the front panel of the µAutolab, used to connect
the cell cables (see Figure 4.46).

On/Off switch Cell On/Off switch

Display Cell cable socket

Figure 4.46 – Overview of the µAutolab

The cell cables are labelled as follows:

• Working or indicator electrode, WE (red)

• Reference electrode, RE (blue)
• Auxiliary or counter electrode, CE (black)

In a two electrode set-up the counter and reference electrode lead are both
connected to the same electrode (see Figure 4.47).

64
The µAutolab type I is not supported in NOVA.

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RE

CE WE

RE

CE WE

Figure 4.47 – Overview of the possible cell connections with the µAutolab
(two electrode, top and three electrode setup, bottom)

4.7.2 – Power up

The settings of the µAutolab on power-up are pre-defined. The following settings
are used:

• Cell: off
• Mode: Potentiostatic
• Bandwidth: High stability
• Current range: 1 µA

4.7.3 – Connections for analog signals

On the rear panel, there are four BNC connectors. All signals are with respect to
µAutolab ground and indirectly to protective earth. Avoid creating ground loops
as this will often degrade the performance of the instrument. From top to bottom,
the following signals are available:

iOUT – This signal corresponds to the output of the current-to-voltage converter

circuit of the µAutolab. A 1 V signal corresponds to {1 x the selected current
range}. The output level varies between ± 10 V. The output impedance is 50 Ω, so
a correction should be made if a load < 100 kΩ is connected. The minimum load
impedance is 200 Ω.

EOUT – This output corresponds to the differential potential of RE versus S 65. The
output voltage will vary between ±10 V. The output impedance is 50 Ω, so a
correction should be made if a load < 100 kΩ is connected. The minimum load
impedance is 200 Ω.

65
The Eout value corresponds to -WE(1).Potential.

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VOUT – This output corresponds to the DAC164 output. It is controlled by software

and is meant to be used to control external devices, like the rotating speed of a
Rotating Disc Electrode (RDE). The output level varies between ±10 V and the
output impedance is very low, < 1 Ω. The output amplifier is capable of providing
5 mA at full scale, so load impedance should be > 2 kΩ.

VIN – This input corresponds to the ADC164 input. This input can be used for
measuring a second signal. The input range is ±10 V and the input impedance is
50 Ω.

4.7.4 – High stability and High speed

The µAutolab is equipped with two different bandwidth settings: High stability
(HSTAB) and High speed. The bandwidth can be defined using the Autolab control
command (see Figure 4.48).

Figure 4.48 – The Autolab control window can be used to set the bandwidth of the µAutolab

The purpose of these different modes of operation is to provide a maximum

bandwidth, maintaining stability in the PSTAT or GSTAT control loop. The normal
mode of operation is High stability 66. This gives the Control Amplifier a bandwidth
of 12.5 kHz.

The High speed mode is automatically selected during impedance measurements

at frequencies > 10 kHz, while the High stability mode is selected for frequencies
below 10 kHz (see Figure 4.49).

66
Power up default setting.

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High stability High speed

10 kHz

Figure 4.49 – Bandwidth limits in the µAutolab

The HSTAB indicator on the front panel of the µAutolab and in the Autolab display
is lit when the High stability mode is active (see Figure 4.50).

Figure 4.50 – A HSTAB indicator is provided on the Autolab display

This setting is the most appropriate for measurements at low frequencies or low
scan rates. The noise in the i and E signals will be minimized. Measurements at
high frequency or at high scan rates require a faster mode of operation.

When operating in High speed mode, the control amplifier will have its bandwidth
extended to 500 kHz. Some cells can show ringing or oscillation using this setting,
particularly highly capacitive cells in PSTAT mode. Increasing the bandwidth also
increases the noise levels for the i and E signals. The High speed mode is
automatically selected during impedance measurement at frequencies > 10 kHz.

Note

It is possible to switch from High stability to High speed by clicking the HSTAB
label in the Autolab display. In High speed mode, this label will be unlit, both
on the front panel of the µAutolab and on the Autolab display. Clicking the
HSTAT label again switches the bandwidth back to High stability.

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Warning

The higher the bandwidth, the more important it is to pay attention to

adequate shielding of the cell and the electrode connectors. The use of a
Faraday cage is recommended in this case.

4.7.5 – RE input impedance and stability

The electrometer RE input contains a small capacitive load. If the capacitive part of
the impedance between CE and RE is comparatively large, phase shifts will occur
which can lead to instability problems when working in potentiostatic mode. If the
impedance between the CE and the RE cannot be changed and oscillations are
observed, it is recommended to select the High stability mode to increase the
system stability. In general, the use of High stability leads to a more stable control
loop, compared to High speed and a significantly lower bandwidth.

4.7.6 – Galvanostat and bandwidth

For galvanostatic measurements on low current ranges, the bandwidth limiting

factor becomes the current-to-voltage circuit rather than the control amplifier.

For stability reasons it is not recommended to use the High speed mode for
current ranges < 10 μA.

A general indication of the maximum available bandwidth for GSTAT and PSTAT
operation can be found in Table 4.10:

Mode GSTAT iR/C - PSTAT

10 mA – 1 mA > 1 MHz > 1 MHz
100 µA 500 kHz 500 kHz
10 µA 50 kHz 50 kHz
1 µA 5 kHz 5 kHz
100 nA 400 Hz 400 Hz
10 nA 20 Hz 20 Hz

Table 4.10 – Bandwidth overview for the µAutolab II and III

At the same time, the iR-compensation bandwidth limits indicate up to which

frequency current measurements can be made in potentiostatic mode (either with
or without iR compensation).

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4.7.7 – Galvanostatic operation and current range linearity

For galvanostatic experiments, automatic current ranging is not possible. The

measurements are performed in a fixed current range. Each current range on the
instrument is characterized by a specific linearity limit and this specification
determines the maximum current that can be applied in galvanostatic mode.

The linearity limitation also applies on measurements performed in potentiostatic

mode in a fixed current range.

Table 4.11 provides an overview of the current range linearity for the µAutolab II
and III.

Current range Linearity

10 mA 5
1 mA 4
10 – 1 mA 4
100 – 1 µA 4
100 – 10 nA 4

Table 4.11 – Linearity limit for the µAutolab II and III

For example, in the 1 mA current range, the maximum current that can be
applied, galvanostatically, using the µAutolab II or III is 4 mA. The maximum
current that can be measured in the 1 mA current range is 10 mA, although
currents exceeding 4 mA will be measured outside of the linearity limit of this
current range.

In galvanostatic operation, the applied current values are checked during the
procedure validation step. When the applied current exceeds the linearity limit for
the specified current range, an error message will be shown in the procedure
validation screen (see Figure 4.51).

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Figure 4.51 – The procedure validation step always checks the applied current values for the
allowed linearity

Note

In potentiostatic mode, this check is not performed. It is possible to measure a

current value in a fixed current range, even if the current value exceeds the
linearity limit of the active current range. This triggers a current overload
warning. When this happens during a measurement, a message will be shown
in the user log, suggesting a modification of the current range (see Figure
4.52).

Figure 4.52 – When a current overload is detected, a suggestion is shown in the user log

Note

The maximum measurable current with the µAutolab II and III is 80 mA.

4.7.8 – Maximum reference electrode voltage

The electrometer RE input contains an input protection circuitry and becomes

active after crossing the ±10 V limit. This is implemented to avoid electrometer
damage. Please note that the Vovl indicator will not light up for this type of voltage
overload. The measured voltage will be cutoff at an absolute value of 10.00 V.

Depending on the cell properties, galvanostatic control of the cell could lead to a
potential difference between the RE and the WE larger than 10 V. This situation

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will trigger the cutoff of the measured voltage to prevent overloading the
differential amplifier.

4.7.9 – Active cells

Some electrochemical cells such as batteries and fuel cells are capable of delivering
power to the µAutolab. This is allowed only to a maximum ‘cell’ power, PMAX of
0.5 W.

This means that cells which show an absolute voltage (|Vcell|) of less than 5 V
between WE and CE are intrinsically safe. They may drive the PGSTAT output stage
into current limit but will not overload the amplifier. On the other hand, cells that
have an absolute voltage higher than 5 V between WE and CE may only deliver a
maximum current, iMAX given by:
𝑃
𝑖𝑀𝐴𝑋 = |𝑉𝑀𝐴𝑋 |
𝑀𝐴𝑋

4.7.10 – Grounded cells

The measurement circuitry of the µAutolab is internally connected to protective

earth (P.E.). This can be an obstacle when measurement is desired of a cell that is
itself in contact with P.E. In such a case, undefined currents will flow through the
loop that is formed when the electrode connections from the µAutolab are linked
to the cell and measurements will not be possible. Please note that not only a
short circuit or a resistance can make a connection to earth, but also a capacitance
is capable of providing a conductive path (for AC signals). The earth connection
between the cell and P.E. should always be broken. If there is no possibility of
doing this, please contact Metrohm Autolab for custom solution, if available.

4.7.11 – Environmental conditions

The µAutolab may be used at temperatures of 0 to 40 degrees Celsius. The

instrument is calibrated at 25 degrees Celsius and will show minimum errors at
that temperature. The ventilation hole on the rear panel may never be obstructed,
nor should the instrument be placed in direct sunlight or near other sources of
heat.

4.7.12 – Noise

When measuring low level currents, some precautions should be taken in order to
minimize noise. The personal computer must be placed as far away as possible
from the electrochemical cell and the cell cables. The cell cables should not cross
other electrical cables. Other equipment with power supplies can also cause noise.
For instance, the interface for mercury electrodes IME should also be placed with
some care. If possible place the computer between the µAutolab and other
equipments. Avoid using unshielded extension cables to the electrodes. The use of
a Faraday cage is also advised.

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If the cell system has a ground connector, it can be connected to the analog
ground connector at the front of the µAutolab. If a Faraday cage is used, it should
be connected to this ground connector. Some experiments concerning
optimization of the signal-to-noise ratio can readily indicate whether or not a
configuration is satisfactory. More information on noise is provided in Section 4.8.

4.8 – Noise considerations

The high sensitivity of the Autolab potentiostat/galvanostat makes it susceptible to

noise pickup. In particular, the noise coming from the mains power can cause
severe disturbance in the measurements.

4.8.1 – Problems with the reference electrode

If the reference electrode is not filled properly with electrolyte solution or when it
has, for other reasons, a very high impedance, it will be expressed as noise. In
most cases the applied potential is not the same as the measured potential. Refer
to the user manual provided by the reference electrode supplier for more
information on the proper care of your reference electrode.

4.8.2 – Problems with unshielded cables

It is not advisable to use unshielded electrode cables. Make the connections to the
electrodes as close as possible to the electrode itself. Avoid the use of unshielded
extension cables to the electrodes.

4.8.3 – Faraday cage

The use of a Faraday cage is always recommended. It protects the cell from
external noise interference. Connect the cage to the green ground-connector of
the cell cable or to ground connector GND at rear of the Autolab instrument.

4.8.4 – Grounding of the instrument

Not proper grounding of the Autolab and PC will decrease the signal to noise
ratio. Always use a grounded power-point and grounded power-cables. Be sure to
connect the Autolab and PC to the same power ground. This means they should
be connected to the same outlet.

4.8.5 – Magnetic stirrer

In some cases a magnetic stirrer can cause noise problems. Try the measurements
with the stirrer on and off and monitor the current. If the stirrer causes a lot of
noise please try to find another way of stirring.

4.8.6 – Position of the cell, Autolab and accessories

The signal to noise ratio can often be improved by changing the positions of the
cell, computer and ancillary equipment relative to the Autolab. In general, the
electrochemical cell should be placed as far as possible from the computer and

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other devices, without extending the cell cables with unshielded cables. If the
noise level remains too high, a Faraday cage may be necessary.

4.8.7 – Measurements in a glove box

When the cell needs to be place into a glove box, it is highly recommended to use
feed through that allows the Autolab cell cables to be connected to the cell inside
the glove box. If necessary, the cell cables of the Autolab can be fitted with BNC
connectors rather than 4 mm banana connectors. This allows using BNC
feedthroughs. Contact your Autolab distributor for more information about this
modification.

Note

The shielding of the RE and S cable on the PGSTAT and of the RE cable on the
µAutolab is driven (or guarded). Use isolated cable feedthroughs for these
cables in order to extend the driven shield inside the glove box. The shield of
these cables must not be connected to the ground of the glove box.

4.9 – Cleaning and inspection

It is recommended to clean the Autolab cabinet and the accessories on a regular

basis. This can be done with a damp cloth, optionally using a mild detergent.
Never use an excessive amount of water; it may never enter into the instrument.
As a precaution, disconnect Autolab from the mains when cleaning it. Also
perform an inspection of the instrument and all of the connecting cables. If you
find any cables with damaged insulation or other irregularities, stop using the
instrument until it has been repaired.

Damaged equipment or damaged cables may be

hazardous!

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Warranty and conformity

This chapter provides information about warranty, safety, specifications and
conformity.

5 – Warranty and conformity

5.1 – Safety practices

Please read the safety practices carefully before starting

to use the AUTOLAB instrument
This section describes the AUTOLAB instrument. The section deals with
appearance and use of the instrument and contains necessary information
regarding operation and installation. Not following these instructions when using
AUTOLAB may cause unsafe operation.

General

The following safety practices are intended to ensure safe operation of the
equipment. Not following these instructions when using Autolab may cause
unsafe operation. Metrohm Autolab is not liable for any damage caused by not
complying with the following instructions.

Electrical Hazards

1. There are no user-serviceable parts inside; servicing should only be done by

qualified personnel.
2. Removal of panels exposes to potentially dangerous voltages. Always
disconnect the instrument from all power sources before removing
protective panels.
3. Replace blown fuses only with size and rating stipulated on or near the fuse
panel holder and in the manual.
4. Replace or repair faulty or frayed insulation on power cords and control
cables.
5. Replace control cables only with original spare parts.
6. When replacing power cord, use only approved type and conform local
regulations.
7. Be sure power cords are plugged into the correct voltage source and
always use a wall outlet with protective earth.
8. Check all connected equipment for proper grounding. Do not move the
instrument with power cords connected.

General Precautions

1. Do not place the instrument on an unstable surface.

2. Do not expose the instrument to damp or wet conditions.

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3. To prevent overheating, care should be taken not to cover any of the

instrument ventilation holes and not to place the instrument close to a
heating source.
4. Full EMC compliance can only be achieved when the electrochemical cell is
placed inside a Faraday cage.

5.2 – General specifications

Booster20A, µAutolab type III, µAutolab type
Power Supply (V) 100-240V ± 10% (auto select)
III/FRA2, PGSTAT101, PGSTAT204
BSTR10A 100-240V ± 10% selectable in 2 ranges
100:92..132V
240:198..264V
IME303, IME663 100-240V ± 10% selectable in 4 ranges
100: 90..121V
120: 104..139V
220: 198..242V
240: 207..264V
PGSTAT302N, PGSTAT302F, PGSTAT128N, 100-240V ± 10% selectable in 4 ranges
PGSTAT100N 100: 90..121V
120: 104..139V
230: 198..242V
240: 207..264V
Multi Autolab 100-240V ± 10% (auto select)

Power-Line frequency 47-63 Hz

Power consumption µAutolab type III, µAutolab type III/FRA2 144

(VA max.) PGSTAT101 40
PGSTAT204 75
Multi Autolab (12 M101) 200
PGSTAT302N, PGSTAT302F 300
PGSTAT128N 180
PGSTAT100N 247
Booster20A 950
BSTR10A 650
IME303, IME663 50

Fuse (A, slow-slow) µAutolab type III 1.6

µAutolab type III/FRA2 1.6
PGSTAT101 2
PGSTAT204 3.5
Booster20A 8
100V 120V 220V 230V 240V
PGSTAT302N, PGSTAT302F,
3.15 3.15 1.6 1.6
PGSTAT128N
PGSTAT100N 3.15 3.15 1.25 1.25
BSTR10A 4 4
IME303, IME663 630 m 630 m 315 m 315 m
Fuse (A, fast) Multi Autolab (refer to backplane) 5 or 8

Operating Environment 0 °C to 40 °C ambient temperature without derating, 80% relative humidity

Storage Environment -10 °C to + 60 °C ambient temperature

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Dimensions (W x H x D) µAutolab type III, µAutolab type III/FRA2 27 x 27 x 9 cm3
PGSTAT101 9 x 21 x 15 cm3
PGSTAT204 15 x 26 x 20 cm3
PGSTAT302N, PGSTAT302F, PGSTAT128N,
52 x 42 x 17 cm3
PGSTAT100N
Booster20 52 x 49 x 20 cm3
BSTR10A 36 x 47 x 15 cm3
IME303, IME663 20 x 24 x 8 cm3
Multi Autolab 52 x 42 x 17 cm3

Weight (kg) µAutolab type III 3.6

µAutolab type III/FRA2 4.2
PGSTAT101 2.1
PGSTAT204 4.1
PGSTAT302N, PGSTAT302F 18
PGSTAT128N 16
PGSTAT100N 21
Booster20A 25
BSTR10A 9
IME303, IME663 2.7
Multi Autolab 12.8

Safety designed to EN61010-1

EMC compliance EN61326-1, EN61326-1
Note: full EMC compliance with all cell types can only be achieved with cell placed in a
faraday cage
Warm-up time 30 minutes
Remote interface USB
Pollution degree 2
Installation category ΙΙ

5.3 – Warranty

The warranty on Autolab products is limited to defects that are traceable to

material, construction or manufacturing error, which occur within 36 months from
the day of delivery (12 months for instruments delivered before January 1st, 2012).
In this case, the defects will be rectified by Metrohm Autolab free of charge.
Transport costs are to be paid by the customer.

Glass breakage in the case of electrodes, cells or other parts is not covered by the
warranty. Consumables (electrodes, QCM crystals, etc.) are not covered by the
warranty.

If damage of the packaging is evident on receipt of the goods or if the goods

show signs of transport damage after unpacking, the carrier must be informed

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 NOVA Getting started

immediately and a written damage report is demanded. Lack of an official damage

report releases Metrohm Autolab from any liability to pay compensation.

If any instruments or parts have to be returned, the original packaging should be

used. This applies to all instruments, electrodes, cells and other parts. If the
original packaging is not available it can be ordered at Metrohm Autolab or at
your local distributor. For damage that arises as a result of non-compliance with
these instructions, no warranty responsibility whatsoever will be accepted by
Metrohm Autolab.

Do not modify the cell cable or the differential amplifier cable connectors. These
cables are designed for the best possible operation. Modifications of these
connections, i.e. with other connectors, will lead to the loss of any warranty.

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5.4 – EU Declaration of conformity

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 Index
.NET 4.0 framework, 11 Compliance voltage, 157
µAutolab, 216 Conformity, 227
2D plot, 110 Control amplifier, 157, 158, 171,
3D plot, 112 186, 201, 210
663 VA Stand, 160 Corrected time, 143, 145, 147
A/D converter, 163 Corrosion potential, 124, 136
Active cells, 178, 192, 204, 214, 223 Counter electrode, 166, 181, 216
ADC10M, 124, 151, 159 Current follower, 157, 158, 159, 169,
ADC164, 159, 163 184, 199, 200, 209, 218
ADC750, 124, 151, 159 Current interrupt, 124
Add plot, 111 Current interrupt method, 154
Amplifier, 163 Current range, 163
Amplitude (FRA2), 158 Current range switching, 164
Analog input, 200, 209, 218 Customize plots, 111
Analog output, 200, 209, 218 Cutoff, 177, 192, 204, 214, 222
Analog scan, 124, 131, 158 Cyclic voltammetry current
Analog signals, 168, 184, 198, 208 integration, 124
Analog-to-digital converter, 163 Cyclic voltammetry galvanostatic,
Analysis view, 100, 108 124, 128
Autogain, 159, 163 Cyclic voltammetry linear scan high
Autolab control, 147, 170, 185 speed, 124
Autolab display, 108, 201, 210, 219 Cyclic voltammetry potentiostatic,
Autolab hardware, 157 124, 126
Autolab procedures, 123 D/A converter, 163
Autolab RDE, 138 DAC164, 158, 163
Automatic current ranging, 127, 129, Data analysis, 108
133, 135, 164 Data display, 110
Bandwidth, 170, 172, 187, 200, 201, Data explorer, 110
209, 210, 218 Data grid, 114, 122
Basic principle of the Autolab Data transfer, 161
PGSTAT, 157 Database, 109
C1 and C2 calibration, 89, 91, 95 Database storage, 104
Calculate signal, 114, 115 Default procedures, 100
CE, 166, 181, 216 Diagnostics, 35
Cell cables, 181 Differential amplifier, 173, 181, 187,
Chrono amperometry, 124, 142 202, 211
Chrono amperometry fast, 124, 145, Differential pulse voltammetry, 124
149 Digital base, 163
Chrono amperometry ultra fast, 124 Digital control, 160
Chrono charge discharge, 124, 152 Digital Input/Output, 160
Chrono coulometry fast, 124 Digital signal generator, 158
Chrono potentiometry, 124, 144 Digital-to-analog converter, 163
Chrono potentiometry fast, 124 DIO, 160
Chrono potentiometry ultra fast, 124 DME, 141
Cleaning of the instrument, 225 Driver Manager, 19
Commands, 103 Dropping Mercury Electrode, 141
Compatible hardware, 29 DSG, 158
Dummy cell, 101 High scan rate, 164
Earth, 178, 181, 205, 214 High speed, 147, 170, 172, 200, 201,
Ecorr, 136 209, 210, 218
Editing procedures, 102 High stability, 170, 172, 200, 201,
EIS, 124, 155 209, 210, 218
Electrochemical impedance Host PC, 161
spectroscopy, 124, 155 HSPEED, 170, 200, 209, 218
Electrochemical methods, 8 HSTAB, 170, 200, 209, 218
Electrochemical signals, 114 Hydrodynamic experiments, 124
Electrochemical spreadsheet, 115 Hydrodynamic linear sweep
Eout, 169, 184, 199, 208 voltammetry, 138
Export data to ASCII, 115 i-Interrupt, 124
Export data to Excel, 115 i-Interrupt method, 154
External input, 158, 169, 184 IME, 179, 194, 205, 215
External signals, 30 IME303, 141, 160
Faraday cage, 179, 181, 195, 205, IME663, 141, 160
215, 219, 224, 225 Impedance, 124, 155, 159, 173, 188
Fast sampling, 124 Interval time, 142, 144, 151, 163
Fast sampling ADC, 159 iout, 169, 184, 199, 209
Feedback, 173, 188 iR compensation, 173, 188, 202, 211
Feedback loop, 171, 186, 201, 210 Linear polarization, 124, 136
Feedthrough, 225 Linear scan cyclic voltammetry, 124
FI20, 159 Linear sweep voltammetry, 136
Filter, 159 Linear sweep voltammetry
Floating, 180 galvanostatic, 124, 134
Floating mode, 52 Linear sweep voltammetry
Forced convection, 124, 138 potentiostatic, 132
Four electrode configuration, 166, Linear sweep voltammetry staircase,
181, 196, 198, 207 124
Fourth electrode, 166, 181, 196, Linearity of current range, 174, 189,
198, 207 203, 212, 221
FRA compatibility, 19 Load data, 110
FRA2, 155, 158, 159, 173, 188 Load procedure, 102
FRA2, 124 LSV, 124, 132, 134
FRA2 calibration, 31, 89, 91, 95 M101 module, 197
FRA32M calibration, 89, 91, 95 Magnetic stirrer, 224
Frequency scan, 156 Maintenance, 225
Gain, 159, 163 Mathematical operation, 115
Glove box, 225 Maximum power, 178, 192, 204,
GPES compatibility, 19 214, 223
Ground, 181 Maximum voltage, 222
Ground loop, 168, 184, 198, 208 Measured values, 114
Grounded cells, 178, 180, 205, 214, Measurement frame, 108
223 Measurement synchronization, 160
Grounded working electrode, 180 Measurement timing, 161
Grounding, 179, 195, 205, 215 Measurement view, 99, 105
Hardware configuration, 29 Mercury drop electrode, 124
Hardware setup, 25, 30 Minimum requirements, 11
High frequency measurement, 164 Module test ADC10M, 55
Module test ADC750, 55 PGSTAT302, 164
Module test BA, 57 PGSTAT302F, 52, 180
Module test BIPOT, 60, 61 PGSTAT302N, 164
Module test Booster10A, 62 Plotting data, 110
Module test Booster20A, 62 Polarization resistance, 124
Module test ECD, 64 Polarography, 124
Module test ECN, 65 Positive feedback, 124, 155
Module test EQCM, 86 Potential, 169, 184, 199, 208
Module test FI20-Filter, 67 Potential offset, 159
Module test FI20-Integrator, 68 Potential range, 159
Module test FI20-Integrator- Potential scan, 156
PGSTAT101, 70 Potential step, 163
Module test FRA2, 73 Power up settings, 167, 182, 198,
Module test FRA32M, 73 208
Module test MUX, 78 Print diagnostics report, 40
Module test PGSTAT, 46 Procedure, 99
Module test PGSTAT101, 49 Procedure browser, 100
Module test PGSTAT302F, 52 Procedure editor frame, 100
Module test pX, 80 Procedure progress, 108
Module test pX1000, 80 Procedure validation, 105
Module test SCAN/ADC, 83 Pulse methods, 145
Module test SCAN250, 82 RE, 166, 181, 196, 198, 207, 216
Module test SCANGEN, 82 Real time display, 106, 108
Module testCV PGSTAT101 Record signals (> 1 ms), 142, 152
procedure, 49 Record signals galvanostatic (> 1 ms),
Module testCV procedure, 46 144
Monitor cable, 169, 184, 199, 208 Reference electrode, 166, 181, 196,
Mott-Schottky, 124, 156 198, 207, 216, 224
Multi Autolab, 197 Repeat for each value, 138
Multi potentiostat, 197 Repeat loop, 139
My procedures, 104 Repeat n times, 152
No data display real-time, 145 Resolution, 159, 163
Noise, 159, 172, 187, 201, 210, 224 Rotating disc electrode, 124
Noise reduction, 159 Rotation rate, 138
Nova installation, 11 S, 166, 173, 181, 187, 196, 198,
Nova Quick Start, 99 202, 207, 211
OCP determination, 136 Safety information, 227
Oscillation, 177, 191 Sampled DC voltammetry, 124
Overload, 192, 204, 214 Sampling rate, 161
Parameters, 126, 132, 134 Save data, 122
Pause button, 106 Save diagnostics report, 40
PGSTAT description, 164, 195, 206 Save procedure, 104
PGSTAT100, 164 Scan rate, 163
PGSTAT100N, 164 SCAN250, 124, 131, 158
PGSTAT101, 195 SCANGEN, 124, 131, 158
PGSTAT12, 164 Sense, 166, 173, 181, 187, 196, 198,
PGSTAT128N, 164 202, 207, 211
PGSTAT204, 206 Set reference potential, 136
PGSTAT30, 164 Setup view, 29, 99
Shielding, 181, 224 Timing, 161
Short interval time, 145 Trigger, 160
Signals, 111 Trigonometric functions, 117
Sinewave, 158 Troubleshooting, 35
Software installation, 11 TTL, 160
Specifications, 227 Two electrode configuration, 166,
Spreadsheet, 114 181, 196, 198, 207, 217
Square wave voltammetry, 124 Ultra fast measurements, 151
Staircase cyclic voltammetry, 101, Ultra high speed, 170, 200, 209
126 Uncompensated resistance, 154, 155,
Staircase cyclic voltammetry 173, 188, 202, 211
(galvanostatic), 128 Unshielded cables, 224
Standard factory procedures, 101 Unsupported hardware, 29
Stop button, 106 USB interface, 160
Summation point, 157, 158, 169, User manual, 99
184 VA stand, 124
Summation point mapping, 159 Voltage follower, 157, 158, 159,
Supported Windows versions, 11 169, 184, 199, 200, 208, 209, 218
Surface Plasmon Resonance, 30 Voltmeter, 173, 187, 202, 211
Tafel plot, 117, 124, 136 Warranty, 227
Temperature range, 223 WE, 166, 173, 181, 187, 196, 198,
Three electrode configuration, 166, 202, 207, 211, 216
181, 196, 198, 207, 217 Working electrode, 166, 173, 181,
Time constant, 159 187, 196, 198, 202, 207, 211, 216
03/2013

Kanaalweg 29/G
3526 KM Utrecht
The Netherlands