Nicolet iS5 Series FT-IR Spectrometers

Nicolet iS5
User Guide

269-263800 Revision C August 2018

© 2010-2018 Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. All rights reserved.

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United States and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.
and its subsidiaries.

For technical support, please contact: www.thermofisher.com

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. provides this document to its customers with a product purchase to use in the
product operation. This document is copyright protected and any reproduction of the whole or any part of this
document is strictly prohibited, except with the written authorization of Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.
The contents of this document are subject to change without notice. All technical information in this
document is for reference purposes only. System configurations and specifications in this document supersede
all previous information received by the purchaser.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. makes no representations that this document is complete, accurate or error-
free and assumes no responsibility and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, damage or loss that might
result from any use of this document, even if the information in the document is followed properly.

This document is not part of any sales contract between Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. and a purchaser. This
document shall in no way govern or modify any Terms and Conditions of Sale, which Terms and Conditions of
Sale shall govern all conflicting information between the two documents.

For Research Use Only. This instrument or accessory is not a medical device and is not intended to be used
for the prevention, diagnosis, treatment or cure of disease.

WARNING Avoid an explosion or fire hazard. This instrument or accessory is not

designed for use in an explosive atmosphere.
 C

Contents
Chapter 1 Welcome. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Conventions Used . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
About the Help System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Finding Other PDF Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Ordering Parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Contacting Us . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Chapter 2 Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Electrical and Communication Cabling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Turning the Power On and Off. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Installing an Accessory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Installing Integrated Accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Installing Baseplate-mounted Accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Installing Slide-mounted Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Collecting Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Setting the Purge Gas Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Aligning Your Spectrometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Verifying the Laser Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Using the iD1 Transmission Accessory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Installing Samples in the iD1 Transmission Accessory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Collecting Data With the iD1 Transmission Accessory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Entering Serial Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Chapter 3 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Installing or Replacing Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Installing a Purge Kit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Replacing Sample Compartment Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Replacing the Power Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Replacing the Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

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Contents

Maintaining Your Instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Cleaning Your Instrument. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Static Electricity Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Checking the Humidity Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Replacing the Desiccant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Regenerating the Desiccant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Checking and Changing the Purge Gas Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Replacing the Laser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Replacing the Detector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Replacing the Electronics Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Replacing Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Chapter 4 Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

Using the Troubleshooting Topics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Hardware Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Spectral Peaks Appear Shifted in Wavenumber Axis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Fails Laser Frequency Verification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
The Power Indicator Does Not Light When You Turn on Your
Instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
The Power Indicator Blinks Continuously. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
The System Scans Normally but the Signal Intensity Is Low . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
The Spectra Have Noise Spikes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
The Baseline Is Not Stable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
The Alignment Fails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Data Cannot Be Collected (or Other Software Problems) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
The Computer Cannot Communicate With the Instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
The Instrument Temperature Is Out of Specification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
OMNIC Cannot Communicate With the Detector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
The Instrument Is Not Scanning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
The Laser Voltage Is Out of Specification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
The Source Voltage Is Out of Specification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
The Power Supply Voltages Are Out of Tolerance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
The Humidity Is Too High. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
The Laser Temperature Is Out of Specification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
The Interferometer Temperature Is Out of Specification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
The Laser Frequency Is Out of Specification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

iv Nicolet iS5 User Guide Thermo Scientific

 1

Welcome
The Thermo Scientific Nicolet™ iS™5 Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrometer lets
you perform chemical analyses of sample materials by collecting data in the mid-IR spectral
range using a variety of accessories, including transmission, attenuated total reflection (ATR),
diffuse reflection (DRIFTS), and specular reflection (SR). The system has integrated
verification features, a powerful software suite, and many other features that make data
collection easy. You can install optional hardware and perform several service and
maintenance procedures yourself. This document, or other provided documentation, contains
the information you need.

Be sure to read the safety guide that came with the system before operating the instrument.

Note We recommend that you maintain seal and desiccation and/or purge your
instrument at all times. Equipment damage due to failure to maintain seal and desiccation
and/or purge is not covered by the warranty. If you have questions about this requirement,
please contact us.

Conventions Used
Safety precautions and other important information use the following format:

WARNING Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or
serious injury.

CAUTION Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or
moderate injury.

NOTICE Follow instructions with this label to avoid damaging the system hardware or
losing data.

Note Contains helpful supplementary information.

Thermo Scientific Nicolet iS5 User Guide 1

1 Welcome
About the Help System

Tip Provides information that can make a task easier.

About the Help System

To view the electronic Help version of this document, choose Spectrometer Help Topics from
the Help menu in OMNIC software.

Finding Other PDF Documents

PDF files of system documentation are on the documentation disk provided with your
instrument.

Ordering Parts
To order parts, contact us.

If you need to send the instrument or an accessory to us for repair, call or e-mail us first for
any shipping requirements or other instructions.

Contacting Us
For Technical Support, please contact: www.thermofisher.com

If you have problems with your system, refer to the Troubleshooting information for help, or
call Technical Support.

Note To expedite and assist in problem diagnosis, please be prepared to send us a copy of
your diagnostics log file. The diagnostic log includes a history of important system
parameters and events that occur during system operation. To copy the diagnostics log to
your Windows desktop, start OMNIC software and choose File > Copy Diagnostics File
to Desktop. Attach this file to an e-mail message to our Technical Support group.

2 Nicolet iS5 User Guide Thermo Scientific

 2

Operation
This section provides instructions for setting up your instrument and installing accessories.

Contents
• Electrical and Communication Cabling
• Turning the Power On and Off
• Installing an Accessory
• Collecting Data
• Setting the Purge Gas Controls
• Aligning Your Spectrometer
• Verifying the Laser Frequency
• Using the iD1 Transmission Accessory
• Entering Serial Numbers

Your instrument is designed for indoor use at altitudes up to 2,000 m (6,500 ft). It operates
reliably at a constant temperature between 15 °C and 35 °C (60 °F and 95 °F). Temperature
changes may result in drift in the system response.

NOTICE Your instrument must be protected from excessive humidity, since the
beamsplitters, detectors, and other components may corrode with exposure to moisture.
Maintain humidity in the range of 20% to 80% noncondensing. To accomplish this, this
instrument is sealed and desiccated. For additional humidity protection, the optional
purge configuration and/or zinc selenide (ZnSe) windows can be used.

CAUTION If a protective cover on a system component appears damaged, turn off the
system and secure it against any unintended operation.

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2 Operation
Electrical and Communication Cabling

Electrical and Communication Cabling

The illustration below shows the correct cable connections for electrical power and data
communication.

Power
Computer

Computer (USB)
cable

Power cable

Check the Preparing Your Site guide on your documentation disk for electrical and other
system requirements before you connect the power cord. The wall outlet must be equipped
with a 3-wire line: live, neutral, and ground.

WARNING
• To ensure a good ground connection and avoid shock hazard, do not use an outlet
that has ground connected to a conduit ground. The ground must be a
non-current-carrying wire connected to earth ground at the main distribution box.
• Do not block access to the power supply, AC power cord or power switch.

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 2 Operation
Turning the Power On and Off

To cable the instrument:

1. Connect the power supply to the spectrometer and to a properly grounded AC power
source.
2. Connect the USB cable to the spectrometer and to a USB 2.0 port on the computer. (Do
not use a USB auxiliary port or hub.)

Turning the Power On and Off

To turn the system power on or off, press the power switch on the back of the instrument:

Power switch

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2 Operation
Installing an Accessory

When the system is powered on, the blue power indicator on the main cover flashes while the
instrument warms up and performs diagnostics (about 2 minutes) and then the indicator stays
lit. During initialization, OMNIC software displays the number of seconds remaining and the
Collect menu is disabled; the system cannot collect data until initialization is completed.

Power indicator

NOTICE Do not place anything on top of the vents at the back of the instrument.
Electronic components can overheat if these vents are blocked.

Installing an Accessory
The Nicolet iS5 spectrometer includes the iD1 transmission accessory which accommodates a
wide variety of samples and slide-mount sample holders for transmission experiments.
Integrated iS5 accessories for common ATR analyses are also available. Contact us for details.

Mounting baseplates are available to accommodate a wide variety of standard accessories from
us and other manufacturers.

All of our integrated accessories and baseplates are easy to install and remove and are
recognized automatically by the software.

Contents
• Installing Integrated Accessories
• Installing Baseplate-mounted Accessories
• Installing Slide-mounted Accessories

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 2 Operation
Installing an Accessory

WARNING Prevent fire and explosion. The infrared source inside the instrument is an
ignition source. If you are using volatile solvents, provide a fume hood or other active
venting system that is free of spark and other ignition sources and prevents flammable
vapors from collecting in the atmosphere surrounding the instrument.

These measures will help prolong the life of your instrument and will eliminate the possibility
of spectral interference caused by volatile solvent vapors.

Using solvents that may produce HCl or HF vapors in the sample compartment may severely
damage the system. If you use halogenated solvents, purging the instrument with dry, clean air
or nitrogen is strongly recommended. See the Preparing Your Site guide for a details.

CAUTION Materials such as hydrochloric acid, hydrofluoric acid and phosgene are highly
toxic. If you plan to regularly use solvents containing halogenated hydrocarbons, be sure
your work area is properly ventilated.

Installing Integrated Accessories

To install an integrated iS5 accessory, such as the iD5 ATR accessory shown below, hold it by
the front and rear handles and lower it onto the spectrometer.

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2 Operation
Installing an Accessory

The accessory fits over two alignment pins on the spectrometer baseplate and is held in place
by magnets.

Magnets

Pins

If your instrument is purged, attach the purge line labeled “Accessory” to the purge inlet on
the back of the accessory. See Installing a Purge Kit for more information.

Purge inlet

Note To remove an accessory, disconnect the purge line if necessary and then grasp the
accessory by the handles and lift it up. When not using an accessory, store it in a dust-free
environment like a cabinet or box.

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 2 Operation
Installing an Accessory

Installing Baseplate-mounted Accessories

Special baseplates are available to accommodate a wide variety of accessories for FT-IR
sampling.
• iD Base Adapter
• iD Foundation Adapter

iD Base Adapter
The iD Base Adapter provides a place to mount large transmission accessories and other
specialized accessories.

Note Avoid installing the iD Base Adapter without an attached accessory. Very strong
magnets hold the adapter in place; you may need to use a tool to pry it free.

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2 Operation
Installing an Accessory

For slide-mounted accessories that are too big for the iD1 Transmission Accessory, a slide
mount that fits the iD base is available.

Slide mount

The iD Base Adapter has two sets of screw holes so the slide mount can be installed facing
either direction. To install the slide mount, position it over the screw holes, and then insert
and tighten the two washers and screws.

Use the large center screw to raise or lower a sample or accessory to align it in the infrared
light beam.

Height adjustment screw

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 2 Operation
Installing an Accessory

To install an accessory attached to the iD Base Adapter, remove any accessory from the iS5
spectrometer and place the adapter over the pins on the spectrometer baseplate. Magnets hold
the adapter in the proper position.

Here is the iD Base Adapter and attached slide mount with a cuvette holder installed in the
Nicolet iS5 spectrometer.

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2 Operation
Installing an Accessory

iD Foundation Adapter
The iD Foundation Adapter fits our Foundation Series Swap-Top Modules. For information
about these modules, see the Foundation Series User Guide on your documentation disk.
Tighten screws to secure
the Foundation accessory

Remove screws and panel for use

with a diffuse reflectance accessory

To install the adapter, remove any accessory from the iS5 spectrometer and place the adapter
over the pins on the spectrometer baseplate. Magnets hold the adapter in the proper position.

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 2 Operation
Installing an Accessory

Slide any Foundation Series Swap-Top Module into the holder, rotate the accessory to line up
the notches and pins and then hand tighten the screws (see the image above). For diffuse
reflection accessories, remove the two screws and lower panel to accommodate the sample
slide as shown in the image below.

Here is a Foundation Multi-bounce ATR accessory installed in the Nicolet iS5 spectrometer.

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2 Operation
Installing an Accessory

Installing Slide-mounted Accessories

The iD1 Transmission Accessory is designed to accommodate gas or liquid transmission cells
and thin film or pellet holders that have a 2 x 3 inch slide mount.

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 2 Operation
Collecting Data

 To install a slide-mounted accessory

1. Slide the accessory into one pair of slots in the iD1 Transmission Accessory.
Choose a pair of slots that will place the center of the accessory at the beam focus
(designated by arrow heads on the accessory housing).
Beam focus

Collecting Data
For information about collecting data with your instrument, see the provided Nicolet iS5
Getting Started and Fast Facts manuals.

Setting the Purge Gas Controls

You can use an appropriate source of purge gas (dry air or nitrogen) to purge the instrument
of moisture and other environmental contaminants. See Installing a Purge Kit for more
information.

For best results the purge gas should be dried to a dew point of -70 °C (-94 °F) or below.

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2 Operation
Setting the Purge Gas Controls

NOTICE We recommend maintaining seal and desiccation and/or purging the

instrument at all times. Equipment damage due to failure to maintain seal and desiccation
and/or purge is not covered under the warranty. If you have questions about this
requirement, please contact us.

WARNING Never use a flammable, combustible, or toxic gas to purge this instrument.
The purge gas must be free of oil and other reactive materials. Heat from the source or
from laser absorption may ignite flammable gases or reactive materials in purge gas. Use
only dried air or nitrogen to purge your instrument.

 To set the purge gas controls

1. Open the main valve to start the flow of purge gas through the regulator.
2. Adjust the pressure regulator for the spectrometer until the gauge indicates that the
pressure is 5 psig (34 ).
Set accessory pressure Set spectrometer pressure

Set accessory flow Set spectrometer flow

3. Set the flowmeter for the spectrometer to 1 scfh (0.47 l/min).

4. If you are using an accessory that is purged, set the purge gas controls for the accessory as
indicated below.
• Accessory pressure, 5 psig (34 )
• Accessory flow, 4–10 scfh (1.9–4.7 l/min)

NOTICE Flow rates greater than recommended values can cause vibration which can
affect data quality.

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 2 Operation
Aligning Your Spectrometer

Aligning Your Spectrometer

Your instrument can be aligned automatically using OMNIC software. Alignment optimizes
the energy throughput to the detector. Alignment can change slightly over time, particularly
in locations that have large temperature swings or excessive vibration.

Note The instrument is aligned automatically each time you run a Performance
Verification (PV) test. We recommend running a PV text at least once a month.

Use the Align button on the Diagnostic tab of the Experiment Setup dialog box (available
through the Collect menu in OMNIC software). For more information, see OMNIC Help
Topics in the Help menu.

Verifying the Laser Frequency

Use the Laser Verification button on the Diagnostic tab in the Experiment Setup dialog box in
OMNIC software to verify the laser.

For optimum system performance, verify the laser frequency according to the following
schedule:

Spectrometer environment Spectrometer state Recommended Schedule

Stable Always powered on every 3 months
Unstable (e.g., temperature or Powered on and off every day or once a week
humidity constantly changing) frequently

Note The laser is verified automatically each time you run a Performance Verification
(PV) test. We recommend running a PV text at least once a month.

 To verify the laser frequency

1. From the OMNIC software main screen, choose Collect > Experiment Setup.
2. Click Laser Verification on the Diagnostic tab.
3. As prompted, remove all accessories and samples from the instrument and then click OK.
4. Click Start Verification.
When the verification is completed, one of the following occurs:
• A message indicates the laser frequency has been verified. Click OK to finish.
• The newly measured laser frequency appears below the previously measured
frequency and a message indicates the laser frequency has been optimized. Click OK
to finish.

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2 Operation
Using the iD1 Transmission Accessory

Using the iD1 Transmission Accessory

The iD1 Transmission Accessory lets you collect spectra of transmission samples, such as thin
films, liquids in a liquid cell, and gases in a gas cell.

Install the module as explained in Installing an Accessory.

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 2 Operation
Entering Serial Numbers

Installing Samples in the iD1 Transmission Accessory

To install a thin sample such as a film, swing open the accessory cover and slide the sample
into any of the narrow slots. Normally a slot at or near the focus position is used. The focus
position is at the center of the sample compartment as indicated by the arrows on the sample
compartment housing.
Narrow slots Wide slot

Beam focus

The wide slot provides clearance for liquid and gas cell flanges.

Collecting Data With the iD1 Transmission Accessory

For information about collecting data with the accessory, see the provided Getting Started and
Fast Facts manuals.

Entering Serial Numbers

The software stores important settings, serial numbers and installation dates. Update any
corresponding setting, serial number or installation date after replacing components in your
spectrometer.

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2 Operation
Entering Serial Numbers

 To check or update the instrument information

1. Choose Advanced Diagnostics in the Collect menu. The Diagnostics screen appears.

Verify that all components are working properly. (If a component malfunctions, a red
slash mark appears over the corresponding icon on this screen. See Troubleshooting or
contact us for assistance.)
2. Click the Installation icon. An information screen appears.

Update any pertinent information, enter today’s date and then click Save.

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 3

Maintenance
This section provides instructions for installing and replacing hardware and maintaining your
instrument.

NOTICE All other maintenance, troubleshooting or repair must be performed by one of

our trained and certified service engineers.

WARNING When performing any of the maintenance procedures, always follow the
safety precautions included in the user guide or Help system and in any of the other
documentation that came with your instrument.

Contents
• Installing or Replacing Hardware
• Maintaining Your Instrument

Installing or Replacing Hardware

Contents
• Installing a Purge Kit
• Replacing Sample Compartment Windows
• Replacing the Power Supply
• Replacing the Source

WARNING The following parts must be replaced only with replacement parts
supplied by us:
• Infrared source
• Desiccant
• Sample compartment windows
• Power supply

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3 Maintenance
Installing or Replacing Hardware

Installing a Purge Kit

Purging protects instrument components from moisture and other environmental
contaminants by maintaining an internal atmosphere of dry air or nitrogen. If you ordered the
purge option, you must install a purge kit.

NOTICE We recommend maintaining seal and desiccation and/or purging the

instrument at all times. Equipment damage due to failure to maintain seal and desiccation
and/or purge is not covered under the warranty. If you have questions about this
requirement, please contact us.

Time needed: 30 minutes or less

Set up needed:
• Source of dry air or nitrogen that meets Thermo Scientific specifications for the
Nicolet iS5 spectrometer. See the Preparing Your Site manual on your documentation
disk for more information.

Note For best results dry the purge gas to a dew point of -70 °C (-94 °F) or below.

Tools needed:
• A 3/4-inch open-ended wrench
• An 11/16-inch open-ended wrench
• A #2 Phillips head screw driver
• Purge regulator valve (with a 1/4-inch male or 3/8-inch female fitting)
• Pipe tapes
• Purge kit with sealed desiccant packet (open just prior to installation)

Note To order parts, call Technical Support. See Contacting Us.

WARNING Never use a flammable, combustible, or toxic gas to purge this instrument.
The purge gas must be free of oil and other reactive materials. Heat from the source or
from laser absorption may ignite flammable gases or reactive materials in purge gas. Use
only dried air or nitrogen to purge your instrument.

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 3 Maintenance
Installing or Replacing Hardware

 To install a purge kit

1. Install the regulator valve and either a 1/4-inch male fitting or a 3/8-inch female fitting
on the purge gas source. (Choose a valve and fittings that are appropriate for the purge gas
source.)

2. If you used a 1/4-inch male fitting, proceed to the next step.

If you used a 3/8-inch female fitting on the purge gas source, install the 3/8-inch to
1/4-inch reducing nipple that was included with your purge kit. Wrap the reducing
nipple with Teflon® pipe tape before you install it, and use an 11/16-inch open-ended
wrench to tighten the connection.

3. Wrap the reducing nipple or the 1/4-inch male fitting with Teflon pipe tape, and then
install the pressure coupling. Use a 3/4-inch open-ended wrench to tighten the
connection.

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4. Snap the male inlet of the wall plumbing assembly firmly into the pressure coupling.
Refer to this drawing when performing this and subsequent steps:
Pressure coupling

Pressure regulator Pressure regulator

To accessory To spectrometer

Flowmeter Wall plumbing assembly Flowmeter

5. Turn off the instrument power, unplug the power cord and remove all accessories and
samples from the system. See Turning the Power On and Off and Installing an Accessory
for instructions.

WARNING Before opening the desiccant compartment, turn off the instrument
power, unplug the power cord and remove all accessories and samples from the
system. Entry of flammable liquids or gases into the desiccant compartment is an
explosion hazard. If such entry occurs, contact us immediately and do not apply
power to the instrument until the condition has been corrected.

6. Loosen the two captive Phillips head screws from the standard desiccant cartridge, and lift
the cartridge straight up and out of the instrument.

Note If the standard desiccant cartridge is stored in a dry box or sealed bag (you can
use the bag the purge cartridge came in), the cartridge can be reused.

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7. Remove and discard the large O-ring.

Note Be careful not to drop the sealing O-ring into the desiccant compartment.

8. Open the purge kit and then open the sealed desiccant packet (must be sealed to keep the
desiccant dry).
9. Remove the O-ring from the packet and install it on the instrument base plate (see the
previous image). Press (rather than roll) the new O-ring into place to be sure it is properly
seated in the groove.
10. Remove the desiccant cartridge with purge fittings from the packet, insert the cartridge in
the desiccant compartment, make sure it is seated properly over the O-ring and then
secure it using the two screws.
Note the correct orientation of the cartridge (the label on the cartridge should be readable
from the front of the instrument when the cartridge is installed).
Purge inlet Relief valves

Purge Desiccant
Cartridge

11. Connect the right-angle flow coupler from the wall plumbing assembly (labeled “to
spectrometer”) to the purge inlet on the instrument.

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12. Install any sampling accessory you removed previously.

13. If the accessory is purged, connect the straight flow coupler from the plumbing assembly
(labeled “to accessory”) to the purge inlet on the installed accessory.
14. Open the main regulator valve and set the purge gas controls as indicated below (see
Setting the Purge Gas Controls for details). If you are not purging an accessory, set the
pressure regulator for accessories to zero.

Hardware Pressure (psig) Flow Rate (scfh)

iS5 Spectrometer 5 1
iD1 Transmission Accessory 5 4-10
iD3 ATR Accessory 5 4-10
iD5 ATR Accessory 5 4-10
iD Foundation 5 4-10

15. Plug in the power cord to the instrument and turn on the power.
16. Wait 30 to 60 minutes for the instrument to fully purge.

Note If the instrument is powered off without purge, you can use either desiccant
cartridge (with or without the purge connectors) to maintain the required humidity.
Make sure you check the humidity indicator once a month (see Checking the
Humidity Indicators) and replace the desiccant when necessary (see Replacing the
Desiccant).

Replacing Sample Compartment Windows

Your instrument has windows on both sides of the sample compartment that seal the
spectrometer from moisture and other contaminants in the room atmosphere. The windows
must be installed, even if your system is purged.

WARNING Prevent fire and explosion. The infrared source inside the instrument is an
ignition source. If you are using volatile solvents, provide a fume hood or other active
venting system that is free of spark and other ignition sources and prevents flammable
vapors from collecting in the atmosphere surrounding the instrument.

The sample compartment windows are either potassium bromide (KBr) with a hygroscopic
protective coating, or non-hygroscopic zinc selenide (ZnSe) with an anti-reflection coating
(for extremely humid environments). Both types of windows should be clear and clean (no
fingerprints).

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NOTICE
• Do not allow liquids to come into contact with the sample compartment windows.
• Windows can be scratched and ruined very easily. Do not touch or attempt to clean
them. Dust will not affect the signal, but fingerprints can degrade the performance of
the instrument and permanently damage mirrors or windows. If you wish to remove
dust from a mirror or window, blow it off with a gentle stream of clean, dry air or
nitrogen (Do not use compressed air from a can or contaminants may cause damage.)

WARNING Replace the sample compartment windows only with replacement parts
supplied by us.

Time needed: 10 minutes

Tools needed:
• iS5 window replacement tool (provided)
• iS5 replacement windows (2)
• latex gloves

Window replacement tool

Replacement windows

 To replace sample compartment windows

1. Turn off the instrument power. See Turning the Power On and Off.

Note If your instrument is purged, you can leave the purge on while you replace the
windows to prevent ambient air from entering the spectrometer.

2. Remove any sampling accessory from the instrument. See Installing an Accessory.

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3. Line up the three ribs in the window replacement tool with the notches in the rim of the
installed window.

Sample
compartment window

Note The window fittings are tight. Use one hand to stabilize the instrument and the
other to remove the window.

4. Press firmly on the tool and turn it counterclockwise to loosen the window.
5. Remove the tool and continue loosening the window by hand until it releases.

Note Be sure to use gloves to handle replacement windows and handle them by the
rims. (Avoid touching the windows even when wearing gloves.)

6. Gently insert the new window into the opening and turn it clockwise until hand tight.
The window should screw in easily at the start; if it doesn’t, remove the window and
restart to avoid stripping the threads.
7. Using the window replacement tool, slowly and firmly turn the window as far as it will go
(you will feel the O-ring compress fully when the window rim contacts the housing).
8. Turn on the instrument power and start OMNIC software.
9. Make sure the window type is properly configured in OMNIC software.
Choose Advanced Diagnostics in the Collect menu. The Diagnostics screen is displayed.

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Click the Installation icon. A diagnostic information screen appears.

Select the Purge Window type (KBr or ZnSe), enter today’s date and then click Save.
10. Make sure the system has been on for at least 15 minutes (one to six hours for best
results), and then run the Performance Verification (PV) test.
From the OMNIC main screen, choose View > System Status. The System Status
Overview dialog box is displayed.

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Click Performance Verification and then click Run.

11. Replace any accessories you removed earlier on the instrument.

Replacing the Power Supply

Time needed: 5 minutes or less

Tools needed: None

Note To order parts, call our Technical Support. See Contacting Us.

CAUTION To avoid a shock hazard, do not:

• Attempt to remove the cover of the power supply.
• Allow liquid to run into the power supply or the back of the instrument.
• Block access to the power supply, AC power cord or power switch.

WARNING Before replacing the power supply, turn off the instrument. Replace the power
supply only with replacement parts supplied by us.

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 To replace the power supply

1. Turn off the instrument power. See Turning the Power On and Off.
2. Disconnect the old power supply from the wall outlet or power strip and from the
instrument power connector.

Power switch
Power
connector

DC power cord Power supply AC power cord

3. Disconnect the AC power cord from the power supply.

Note The power supply replacement kit does not include the AC power cord, which
is specific for the location of your installed instrument. Save the cord and use it with
the new power supply. If the power cord becomes damaged, call our Technical
Support to order a new one. See Contacting Us.

4. Connect your AC power cord to the new power supply.

5. Connect the power supply first to the instrument power connector and then to the wall
outlet or power strip. The wall outlet you use must be equipped with a 3-wire line: live,
neutral, and ground.

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WARNING To ensure a good ground connection and avoid shock hazard, do not use
an outlet that is connected to a conduit ground. The ground must be a
noncurrent-carrying wire connected to earth ground at the main distribution box.

6. Turn on the instrument power and start OMNIC software.

The blue power indicator on the main cover flashes while the instrument warms up and
performs diagnostics (about 2 minutes) and then the indicator stays lit. If the instrument
does not function normally, turn off the power and check the cable connections between
the power supply, the instrument, and the wall outlet or power strip. If the connectors are
seated properly and the instrument still does not function normally, contact Technical
Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.
7. Enter the serial number for the new power supply in OMNIC software.
Choose Advanced Diagnostics in the Collect menu. The Diagnostics screen is displayed.

Click the Installation icon. A diagnostic information screen appears.

Type the serial number for the new power supply, enter today’s date and then click Save.

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8. Make sure the system has been on for at least 15 minutes (one to six hours for best
results), and then run the Performance Verification (PV) test.
From the OMNIC main screen, choose View > System Status. The System Status
Overview dialog box is displayed.

Click Performance Verification and then click Run.

Replacing the Source

Time needed: 25 minutes or less

Tools needed:
• A #1 Phillips head screwdriver (provided with the instrument)

Note To order parts, contact Technical Support; see Contacting Us.

WARNING Before replacing the source, turn off the instrument. Replace the source only
with replacement parts supplied by us.

WARNING The source becomes extremely hot while you are using the instrument.
Always allow the source to cool for at least 10 minutes after it is turned off before you
work with it.

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NOTICE Never touch a source element with your bare fingers. Skin oils or other deposits
on the element will shorten its life. Always use clean finger cots, gloves, or clean laboratory
tissue when handling a source element.

 To replace or change the source

1. Turn off the instrument (see Turning the Power On and Off) and unplug its power cord.
2. Disconnect the cables from the back of the instrument.
3. If the spectrometer or an installed accessory is purged, disconnect the purge lines from the
spectrometer and the accessory (quick connect fittings stop the flow automatically). See
Installing a Purge Kit for more information.
4. Remove any installed accessories from the instrument (see Installing an Accessory).

Note Make sure at least 10 minutes have passed since you turned off the instrument
before you perform the next step.

5. Carefully tip the instrument back until it rests on the four feet on the rear panel.

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6. Use a #1 Phillips head screwdriver to loosen the three captive screws that hold the source
in place.

7. Grasp the bale firmly and pull the source straight out of the instrument.

8. Record the serial number for the new source on a piece of paper. You will need to enter it
after the source is installed.
9. Insert the new source.
Make sure the three captive screws are straight and then slowly insert the source into the
cavity until the source mount is flush with the instrument. Tighten the screws to secure
the source and snap the bale into its storage position.
10. Carefully return the instrument to its upright position and reconnect the cables you
removed.
11. If your instrument is not purged, replace the desiccant. See Replacing the Desiccant for
instructions.

WARNING To ensure a good ground connection and avoid shock hazard, do not use
an outlet that is connected to a conduit ground. The ground must be a
noncurrent-carrying wire connected to earth ground at the main distribution box.

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12. Plug in the power cord to the instrument, turn on the power switch and start OMNIC
software.
13. Wait until the power indicator stops flashing.
14. Enter the serial number for the new source in OMNIC software.
Choose Advanced Diagnostics in the Collect menu. The Diagnostics screen appears.

Verify that the new source is working properly. (If it does not work properly, a red slash
mark appears over the Source icon on this screen. Contact Technical Support for
assistance; see Contacting Us.)
Click the Installation icon. A diagnostic information screen appears.

Type the serial number for the new source (recorded in step 8), enter today’s date and
then click Save.
15. Make sure the system has been on for at least 15 minutes (one to six hours for best
results), and then align the instrument (see Aligning Your Spectrometer).

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16. Run the Performance Verification (PV) test.

From the OMNIC main screen, choose View > System Status. The System Status
Overview dialog box is displayed.

Click Performance Verification and then click Run.

17. Replace any accessories you removed earlier.
18. If the system is purged, reconnect the purge lines.

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Maintaining Your Instrument

Maintaining Your Instrument

Contents
• Cleaning Your Instrument
• Static Electricity Precautions
• Checking the Humidity Indicators
• Replacing the Desiccant
• Regenerating the Desiccant
• Checking and Changing the Purge Gas Filter

Cleaning Your Instrument

If the outside of the instrument needs cleaning, turn it off (see Turning the Power On and
Off) and disconnect the power supply. Then use a soft cloth that is damp (not wet) and a mild
soap to clean the outside of the instrument.

CAUTION To avoid a shock hazard, do not allow liquid to run into the power supply or
the back of the instrument.

NOTICE
• Do not use harsh detergents, solvents, chemicals or abrasives; these can damage the
finish. Do not allow liquid to contact any windows in the sample compartment.
• Windows can be scratched and ruined very easily. Do not touch or attempt to clean
them. Dust will not affect the signal, but fingerprints can degrade the performance of
the instrument and permanently damage mirrors or windows. If you wish to remove
dust from a mirror or window, blow it off with a gentle stream of clean, dry air or
nitrogen. Never allow any liquid to come into contact with a window or optical
component in the instrument.

Cleaning the iD1 Transmission Accessory

If the outside of the accessory needs to be cleaned, remove the accessory from the instrument,
and use a soft, damp (not wet) cloth and a mild soap to clean it. Do not use harsh detergents,
solvents, chemicals or abrasives (since they can damage the finish), and do not allow liquid to
contact any windows (such as those in the sample compartment). When you are finished
cleaning the accessory, allow it to dry, and then reinstall it in the instrument.

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Static Electricity Precautions

Critical components in the instrument can be permanently damaged by static electricity. To
help prevent such damage, follow these recommendations:

NOTICE
• Before you disconnect the power supply, always discharge any static electricity you
may have accumulated by touching the perforated metal shield over the power supply.
• Do not touch any printed circuit board in the instrument (such as the circuit board
on the detector).
• Do not remove replacement components from their protective packaging until you
are ready to install that component in the instrument.

Checking the Humidity Indicators

The instrument is tightly sealed and its optical components are protected by desiccant that
absorbs water vapor. The instrument can also be purged with dry air or nitrogen (see
Installing a Purge Kit).

NOTICE We recommend maintaining seal and desiccation and/or purging the

instrument at all times. Equipment damage due to failure to maintain seal and desiccation
and/or purge is not covered under the warranty. If you have questions about this
requirement, call Technical Support; see Contacting Us.

Follow these steps to monitor the humidity level inside the instrument.

Contents
• Checking Humidity When the Instrument is Powered Off
• Checking Humidity When the Instrument is Powered On

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Checking Humidity When the Instrument is Powered Off

A paper indicator lets you know when to change the desiccant when the instrument is
powered off.
Humidity indicator

As long as the humidity indicator on the instrument is blue, the desiccant is not saturated and
does not need replacement. When the desiccant becomes saturated, the humidity indicator
turns pink and then light pink or almost white. This means you must replace the desiccant
and the humidity indicator. See Replacing the Desiccant for instructions.

NOTICE Check the paper humidity indicator at least once a month when the instrument
is powered off.

Checking Humidity When the Instrument is Powered On

When the instrument is powered on, an internal sensor closely monitors the humidity level
inside the instrument and alerts you when the humidity is high.

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 To check the internal humidity indicator

1. From the OMNIC software main screen, choose Advanced Diagnostics in the Collect
menu. The Diagnostics screen appears.

2. Click the Electronics icon. An information screen appears.

3. Verify that the current Internal Humidity value is between 2 and 50%.

Note When the internal humidity is above 50%, OMNIC software displays a
message to replace the desiccant (see Replacing the Desiccant) or increase the purge
flow (see Setting the Purge Gas Controls). If the humidity is above a critical level, the
System Status will report an instrument failure.

Replacing the Desiccant

If your instrument is not equipped with a purge kit, or the purge is off, you must monitor the
humidity level inside the spectrometer. Replace the desiccant when the paper humidity
indicator turns pink (can be light pink or almost white) or the software displays a message that
the internal humidity is above 50%. Replace the paper humidity indicator each time you
replace the desiccant.

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Time needed: 5 minutes or less

Tools needed:
• Desiccant replacement kit (or desiccant canisters that have been regenerated)
• A 0.05-inch Hex key
• A #2 Phillips head screw driver
• Gloves, finger cots, or laboratory tissue (to handle the humidity indicator)

Note To order parts, contact Technical Support; see Contacting Us.

WARNING Before opening the desiccant compartment, turn off the instrument power,
unplug the power cord and remove all accessories and samples from the system. Entry of
flammable liquids or gases into the desiccant compartment is an explosion hazard. If such
entry occurs, contact us immediately and do not apply power to the instrument until the
condition has been corrected.

NOTICE Make sure nothing falls into the instrument while the desiccant cover is
removed.

WARNING Replace the desiccant only with replacement parts supplied by us.

 To replace the desiccant

1. Turn off the instrument (see Turning the Power On and Off) and unplug the power cord.
2. Turn off the purge, if applicable, and disconnect the purge line to the instrument and any
accessory.
3. Remove any installed accessory and all samples from the instrument (see Installing an
Accessory).

Note You can use either desiccant cartridge (with or without the purge connector) to
maintain the required humidity when the instrument is powered off. The illustrations
below show the nonpurged version of the desiccant cartridge. To see the purged
version, see Installing a Purge Kit. The instructions for replacing the desiccant
canisters are the same for both cartridges.

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4. Use the #2 Phillips head screw driver to loosen the two captive screws from the desiccant
cartridge, and lift the cartridge straight up and out of the instrument.

5. Remove and discard the large O-ring.

Note Be careful not to drop the sealing O-ring into the desiccant compartment.

6. Remove the new O-ring from the packet and install it on the instrument base plate (see
the previous image).
Press (rather than roll) the new O-ring into place to be sure it is properly seated in the
groove.

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7. Use the 0.05-inch Hex key to loosen (approximately two turns) the eight screws that hold
the two saturated desiccant canisters to the desiccant cartridge. Remove the canisters.

Note The desiccant canisters can be regenerated. See Regenerating the Desiccant for
details.

Humidity indicator

Desiccant cartridge

Channel

Remove these screws

(4 on each side)

Desiccant canisters

WARNING The contents of the desiccant canisters (hydrated metal aluminosilicate

molecular sieve) could be harmful if ingested. If you discard the saturated desiccant
canisters, make sure they are properly disposed of.

8. Turn the desiccant cartridge upside down and peel the old humidity indicator off the
window. Discard the used indicator.

NOTICE Always wear lab gloves or finger cots, or use laboratory tissue, when
handling a new humidity indicator. Oil or moisture from skin can discolor the
indicator.

9. Open the sealed packet that contains the new desiccant (must be sealed to maintain the
desiccant) and remove the new humidity indicator.
10. Turn the desiccant cartridge upside down and press the blue indicator onto the window
so that the flat edges of the indicator are aligned with the edges of the cartridge. The text
should be visible through the window when you turn the cartridge right side up.

NOTICE Make sure that the indicator is pressed tightly against the window so that it
does not come loose in the desiccant compartment when you reinstall the cartridge.

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11. Install the new desiccant canisters. See the previous illustration for this step.
Insert the canisters into the channel of the desiccant cartridge and tighten the eight screws
(approximately 2 turns) until they are flush with the cartridge channel.
12. Insert the desiccant cartridge into the spectrometer so that the text on the humidity
indicator can be read by someone standing in front of the instrument.
Make sure the cartridge is seated properly over the O-ring and then secure it using the
two screws.

WARNING To ensure a good ground connection and avoid shock hazard, do not use an
outlet that is connected to a conduit ground. The ground must be a noncurrent-carrying
wire connected to earth ground at the main distribution box.

13. Plug in the power cord to the instrument and turn on the power.
14. Record the desiccant replacement date in OMNIC software.
Start OMNIC software and then choose Advanced Diagnostics in the Collect menu.
The Diagnostics screen appears.

Click the Installation icon. A diagnostic information screen appears.

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Enter today’s date for the desiccant replacement and then click Save.
15. Reconnect the purge line to the instrument, if applicable, and turn on the purge.
16. Make sure the system has been on for at least 15 minutes (one to six hours for best
results), and then run the Performance Verification (PV) test.
From the OMNIC main screen, choose View > System Status. The System Status
Overview dialog box is displayed.

Click Performance Verification and then click Run.

17. Install any accessories you removed earlier and reconnect the purge, if applicable.

Regenerating the Desiccant

When the desiccant canisters must be replaced, you can contact us to order new desiccant
canisters (see Contacting Us), or you can dry and reuse the saturated canisters according to the
following instructions.

Time needed: 3 hours

Tools needed:
• Vented oven
• Insulated cloth or hot pad

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Note If you need to replace the humidity indicator, you must order new desiccant
canisters. A new humidity indicator is included with the new desiccant canisters.

NOTICE
• If you are going to dry and reuse saturated desiccant canisters, make sure you have
fresh desiccant canisters you can place in the instrument while the saturated canisters
dry.
• Do not leave canisters in the oven for more than three hours and do not exceed a
temperature of 150 °C (300 °F). Allow the canisters to cool completely in a dry
environment before you install them in the cartridge.
• Make sure the insulated cloth or hot pad you use to handle the regenerated desiccant
canisters is not contaminated with substances that could be absorbed by the desiccant
and subsequently released into the instrument.

 To regenerate the desiccant

1. Place the saturated desiccant canisters in a vented oven at 150 °C (about 300 °F) for three
hours.

WARNING To avoid a burn hazard, use an insulated cloth or hot pad to handle the heated
desiccant canisters, and always wait until the canisters have cooled to room temperature
before reinstalling them in the instrument.

2. Use an insulated cloth or hot pad to remove the desiccant canisters from the oven.
Place the hot canisters in a dry environment such as a desiccator and allow them to cool
to room temperature. As soon as the canisters reach room temperature, you must either
install them in the instrument or seal them in an airtight container or bag. Otherwise,
they will absorb moisture from the air in the room and quickly become saturated again.

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Checking and Changing the Purge Gas Filter

Check the purge filter occasionally to make sure it is clean and dry. (The illustration below
shows where the purge filter is located.)

If the filter is clean and white, it does not need replacement. If the filter is yellow, or otherwise
discolored, or if it is contaminated with debris or foreign particles, replace the filter.

NOTICE We recommend maintaining seal and desiccation and/or purging the

instrument at all times. Equipment damage due to failure to maintain seal and desiccation
and/or purge is not covered under the warranty. If you have questions about this
requirement, please contact us.

Time needed: 5 minutes or less

Tools needed: None

Note To order parts, contact Technical Support; see Contacting Us.

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 To change the purge gas filter

1. Turn off the purge gas at the main valve. Do not turn down the flow meter or the pressure
regulator.
2. Remove the plastic bowl that houses the filter and then remove the filter. (You can
unscrew them both by hand.)

Bowl
Filter

3. Install the new filter and then reinstall the bowl.

4. Open the main valve to turn on the purge flow to the instrument.

Note You may notice increased levels of water and carbon dioxide in spectra collected
immediately after you have had the purge gas turned off. If this interferes with your
data, wait 15 to 60 minutes until purge is completely re-established.

Replacing the Laser

The laser in your instrument is not user-replaceable. If you suspect there is a problem with the
laser, contact Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.

Replacing the Detector

The detector in your instrument is not user-replaceable. If you suspect there is a problem with
the detector, contact Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.

Replacing the Electronics Module

The electronics module in your instrument is not user-replaceable. If you suspect there is a
problem with the electronics module, contact Technical Support for assistance; see
Contacting Us.

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Replacing Fuses
The fuses in your instrument are in the power supply and are not user-replaceable. If the fuses
blow, you must replace the power supply (see Replacing the Power Supply). If you need
assistance, contact Technical Support; see Contacting Us.

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 4

Troubleshooting

Contents
• Using the Troubleshooting Topics
• Hardware Problems
• Error Messages

Using the Troubleshooting Topics

The troubleshooting topics will help you solve problems with the instrument. These topics are
divided as follows:

Hardware Problems contains topics that address specific hardware problems you may
encounter. Each topic lists steps you can take to try to resolve the problem.

Error Messages contains topics that deal with error messages you may see. Each topic lists
steps you can take if you see such error messages.

To expedite and assist in problem diagnosis, please be prepared to send us a copy of your
diagnostics log file. The diagnostic log includes a history of important system parameters and
events that occur during system operation. To copy the diagnostics log to your Windows
desktop, start OMNIC software and choose File > Copy Diagnostics File to Desktop.
Attach this file to an e-mail message to our Technical Support group. See Contacting Us for
our e-mail addresses.

Note If you are having a problem with applications or software, refer to the electronic or
printed software documentation that came with your system.

WARNING When performing any of the procedures in the troubleshooting topics, always
follow the safety precautions included in this document or Help system and in any of the
other documentation that came with your instrument.

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Hardware Problems

Hardware Problems
Contents
• Spectral Peaks Appear Shifted in Wavenumber Axis
• Fails Laser Frequency Verification
• The Power Indicator Does Not Light When You Turn on Your Instrument
• The Power Indicator Blinks Continuously
• The System Scans Normally but the Signal Intensity Is Low
• The Spectra Have Noise Spikes
• The Baseline Is Not Stable
• The Alignment Fails
• Data Cannot Be Collected (or Other Software Problems)

Spectral Peaks Appear Shifted in Wavenumber Axis

1. Peak position, band shape and intensity can all be affected by special sampling techniques
such as ATR or specular reflection. To determine if this is the problem, remove your
accessory and collect a known sample in transmission. Compare the peak positions in the
transmission spectrum with the peak positions in the ATR or other spectrum.
2. Run laser verification. See Verifying the Laser Frequency.
3. Contact Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.

Fails Laser Frequency Verification

1. Laser verification requires some water vapor to be present in the sample compartment. If
laser verification fails, remove any accessory from the spectrometer, breath slowly into the
sample compartment and immediately rerun laser verification.
2. If laser verification fails again, contact Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting
Us.

The Power Indicator Does Not Light When You Turn on Your Instrument
1. Turn the instrument off and check the connections between the instrument and the
power supply.
2. Make sure the power cord is securely connected to the power supply and the power
supply is connected to a properly grounded and working outlet.

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 4 Troubleshooting
Hardware Problems

3. Check the power cord descriptions and part numbers to make sure the power cord is
appropriate for your local AC power source. Order a new power cord if necessary.
4. Check the ground prong on the power cord. If the ground prong has been removed or is
defective, replace the power cord.
5. Contact Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.

The Power Indicator Blinks Continuously

1. The iS5 power indicator blinks for two minutes after power up while the instrument runs
internal diagnostic tests. If the power indicator continues to blink after two minutes,
there is a problem with the internal temperature or humidity.
2. Open Experiment Setup and click the Diagnostic tab. Click the status icon that has a red
slash for details.
3. If the internal humidity is too high, see The Humidity Is Too High.
4. If the internal temperature is out of specification, see The Instrument Temperature Is Out
of Specification.
5. Contact Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.

The System Scans Normally but the Signal Intensity Is Low

1. Make sure nothing is blocking the light beam.
2. Make sure any accessories you are using are installed and aligned correctly. (For more
information, see the instructions that came with the accessory.)
3. Open Experiment Setup, click the Bench tab and make sure the DTGS detector is
selected.
4. Click the Diagnostic tab in Experiment Setup, and then click Align.
5. If the signal is still low, select View Reference Detector on the Diagnostic tab. If the
interferogram appears, you may have a problem with the IR detector. Contact Technical
Support for assistance.
6. Open Experiment Setup, click the Diagnostic tab, click the Source icon and check that
the source current and voltage are within specifications.
7. Remove any accessories from the instrument and check KBr sample compartment
windows for damage due to condensation (the surface will be cloudy). Contact Technical
Support for assistance if they are not clear or appear to be damaged.
8. Check the sample compartment windows for contaminants.
a. Collect a transmission background and sample spectrum without an accessory in the
sample compartment.

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4 Troubleshooting
Hardware Problems

b. Remove the sample compartment windows (see Replacing Sample Compartment

Windows).
c. Collect a background and sample spectrum.
d. Compare the two sample spectra. If there are significant differences between the
spectra, the sample compartment windows may be contaminated. Replace the
windows.
9. Compare the single beam spectrum you just collected to an archived single beam
spectrum from this instrument.
If the overall amplitude is low, you may need to replace the source (see Replacing the
Source).
If the shape of the spectrum is distorted, align the spectrometer (click Align on the
Diagnostic tab in Experiment Setup).
If the spectrum has strong artifacts or peaks, the spectrometer’s internal optics may be
contaminated. Contact Technical Support for assistance.
10. Contact Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.

The Spectra Have Noise Spikes

1. It is normal for sample spectra to be noisy in the high and low wavenumber regions
compared to the region around 2000 cm-1. This is because the black body energy of the
source drops off dramatically below 1000 cm-1 and decreases slowly above 3000 cm-1. To
improve the ratio of signal to noise, increase the number of scans.
2. If noise spikes are apparent below 1000 cm-1, you may have a disturbance due to external
vibration or acoustic noise. Move the instrument to a location that is free of vibration
and/or acoustic noise.
3. If sharp spikes are apparent throughout the spectra, you may have problems from
electrical noise.
a. Remove any potential sources of electrical noise emission such as computers or other
lab equipment.
b. Your power supply or USB cable may be picking up electrical noise from other
equipment or cables. Reposition the power supply or USB cable.
c. Your AC power source may contain electrical noise. See the Preparing Your Site guide
on your documentation disk for electrical specifications. You may need an AC power
conditioner.
d. Your power supply may be failing. Replace the power supply.
e. Contact Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.

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 4 Troubleshooting
Hardware Problems

The Baseline Is Not Stable

1. Minimize the acoustic noise inside the instrument. If the instrument has the purge
option, lower the purge flow rate until the baseline is stable.
2. Open Experiment Setup, click the Diagnostic tab, and then click Align.
3. Make sure the environmental conditions (especially vibration) meet the requirements
listed in the Preparing Your Site guide on your documentation disk.
4. Make sure the ambient temperature is not changing dramatically.
5. Check the humidity indicator and replace the desiccant and indicator if needed.
6. Make sure the ambient humidity is not changing dramatically. If it is, consider adding the
purge option (see Installing a Purge Kit).
7. If the power to the instrument was recently turned on, allow 1 to 6 hours for the
temperature to completely stabilize.

Note If you are using purge and the accessory cover was recently opened (or a service
representative opened the main cover), allow the instrument to equilibrate for 1 to
6 hours after the cover is closed.

8. Open Experiment Setup and click the Bench tab. Click the Laser icon and check the laser
indicators. If a laser measurement is out of tolerance, contact Technical Support for
assistance.
9. Contact Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.

The Alignment Fails

1. Make sure the instrument is scanning. (Open Experiment Setup, click the Diagnostic tab
and check that an interferogram appears in the window.) If no interferogram appears,
click Reset Bench, and then click Align. If the interferogram reappears, check that the
Max readout for the interferogram peak is at least 0.1 Volts.
2. If no interferogram appears after alignment, select View Reference Detector on the
Diagnostic tab. If the interferogram appears, you may have a problem with the IR
detector.
3. Check the sample compartment windows for damage. Contact Technical Support for
assistance if they are not clear or appear to be damaged.
4. Open Experiment Setup and click the Diagnostic tab. If one of the status indicators has a
red slash through it, click the indicator and follow the on-line instructions to resolve the
problem.
5. Open Experiment Setup, click the Diagnostic tab, and then click Reset Bench.

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4 Troubleshooting
Error Messages

6. Make sure the system has been on for at least 15 minutes (one hour for best results), and
then click Align on the Diagnostic tab.
7. Make sure any accessories are installed according to the instructions that came with them.
8. Contact Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.

Data Cannot Be Collected (or Other Software Problems)

1. Make sure the system has completed the initialization period (about 2 minutes after you
power it up). During initialization, the blue power indicator on the front of the
instrument flashes and the OMNIC Collect menu is disabled.
2. Open Experiment Setup, click the Diagnostic tab, and then click Reset Bench.
3. Close OMNIC software. Turn off the instrument power. Wait a few seconds and then
turn on the instrument power. Restart OMNIC software.
4. Shut down the computer and turn off the instrument power. Check the data cable. If it is
damaged, replace it. If the cable is loose or disconnected, reconnect it. Turn the on the
instrument power. Then turn on the computer and restart OMNIC software.
5. Contact Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.

Error Messages
Contents
• The Computer Cannot Communicate With the Instrument
• The Instrument Temperature Is Out of Specification
• OMNIC Cannot Communicate With the Detector
• The Instrument Is Not Scanning
• The Laser Voltage Is Out of Specification
• The Source Voltage Is Out of Specification
• The Power Supply Voltages Are Out of Tolerance

The Computer Cannot Communicate With the Instrument

Check that the computer USB port supports USB version 2.0 and the cable between the
computer and the spectrometer is a high speed USB cable. See “Computer Requirements for
FT-IR and FT-Raman Systems” on your documentation disk for details.
1. Open Experiment Setup, click the Diagnostic tab, and then click Reset Bench.

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 4 Troubleshooting
Error Messages

2. If the problem continues, close OMNIC software and turn off the instrument power.
Wait for a few seconds, and then turn on the instrument power. Restart OMNIC
software.
3. If the Power indicator on the instrument does not light, make sure the power supply is
connected to the instrument and a properly grounded wall outlet or power strip.
4. Turn off the computer and then turn off the instrument power. Check the USB data
cable. If the cable is damaged, replace it. If the cable is loose or disconnected, reconnect it.
5. Turn on the instrument power. Turn on the computer and restart OMNIC software.
6. Remove any USB computer accessories that may be interfering with communication with
the spectrometer.
7. Close any applications that might interfere with OMNIC software.
8. Contact Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.

The Instrument Temperature Is Out of Specification

1. Make sure nothing is placed on top of the instrument and air can flow freely around it.
2. The ambient temperature may be too high. The ambient temperature should be between
18 °C and 35 °C (64 °F and 95 °F). Allow 1 to 6 hours for the spectrometer to come to
temperature equilibrium.
3. Contact Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.

OMNIC Cannot Communicate With the Detector

If OMNIC software cannot communicate with the detector, contact Technical Support for
assistance; see Contacting Us.

The Instrument Is Not Scanning

Note After 1 hour without data collection activity, the interferometer automatically stops
scanning. Any subsequent data collection activity will cause the interferometer to begin
scanning again.

1. Turn on the instrument power (if it is not already on).

2. Start OMNIC software.
3. Make sure the system has been on for at least 15 minutes (one hour for best results), and
then align the instrument (open Experiment Setup, click the Diagnostic tab, and then
click Align). If the instrument does not resume scanning, proceed to the next step.

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4 Troubleshooting
Error Messages

4. Turn off the power to the computer and the instrument. Leave the power off for
15 seconds. Turn on the instrument power. Turn on the computer and restart OMNIC
software. If the instrument does not resume scanning, proceed to the next step.
5. Select View Reference Detector on the Diagnostic tab.
If the instrument scans normally (an interferogram should appear in the window in the
Experiment Setup dialog box), the problem is probably related to the sample or the
detector. Make sure that the sample compartment beam is not blocked, and check the
Diagnostic tab of the Experiment Setup dialog box to make sure the detector is
recognized. If it is not, contact Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.
6. Check all of the status indicators on the Diagnostic tab of the Experiment Setup dialog
box. Click any indicator that has a red slash through it to view diagnostic information
about the component.
If the laser frequency is outside the specified range, contact Technical Support to have the
electronics module replaced. If the laser voltage or current is outside the specified range,
contact Technical Support for assistance.
If the temperature is not in the acceptable range, make sure the cooling vents on the back
of the instrument are not blocked and nothing is stacked on top of the instrument.
Maintain at least 30 cm (12 in) of clearance behind the instrument and 64 cm (25 in) of
clearance above the table. Make sure the ambient temperature is between 18 °C and
35 °C (64 °F and 95°F).
7. Contact Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.

The Laser Voltage Is Out of Specification

1. Remove any accessories or samples from the sample compartment.
2. Open Experiment Setup, click the Diagnostic tab, and then click Align.
3. Contact Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.

The Source Voltage Is Out of Specification

1. Make sure the source is properly seated in its holder, and the source holder is properly
seated in the instrument.
2. Replace the source. See Replacing the Source.
3. Contact Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.

The Power Supply Voltages Are Out of Tolerance

1. Open Experiment Setup, click the Diagnostic tab, and then click the Power icon. Check
that the current value for +12 Volt is within specifications. If it is out of the specified
range, replace the power supply.

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 4 Troubleshooting
Error Messages

2. If other values on the Power diagnostic screen are out of their specified ranges, contact
Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.

The Humidity Is Too High

1. If the instrument is equipped with an optional purge kit, check that the purge gas flow is
set properly; see Setting the Purge Gas Controls for details.
2. Check the humidity indicator and replace the desiccant and indicator; see Replacing the
Desiccant for instructions.

The Laser Temperature Is Out of Specification

1. Make sure the room temperature is between 18 °C and 35 °C (64 °F and 95 °F), and
allow the instrument adequate time to stabilize.
2. Contact Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.

The Interferometer Temperature Is Out of Specification

1. Make sure the room temperature is between 18 °C and 35 °C (64 °F and 95 °F), and
allow the instrument adequate time to stabilize.
2. Contact Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.

The Laser Frequency Is Out of Specification

1. Open Experiment Setup, click the Diagnostic tab, and then click Align.
2. Click Laser Verification on the Diagnostic tab.
3. Contact Technical Support for assistance; see Contacting Us.

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 I

Index

A collection failure 56
communication cabling 4
accessory
attaching purge to 8 computer
installing base-plate mounted 9 communication error 56
installing integrated 7 contact information 2
installing slide-mounted 14 conventions 1
removing 8
storing 8 D
adapter
data cable 4
installing iD base 9
data collection 15, 19
aligning
spectrometer 17 data collection failure 56
alignment failure 55 desiccant
checking 39
altitude
regenerating 46
recommended for instrument 3
replacing 42
desiccant indicator
B proper handling 44
baseline desiccation
unstable 55 requirement 1
baseplate mounted accessory detector
installing 9 replacing 49
beam focus 19 detector communication error 57
documentation 2
C
cabling 4 E
calibrating electrical cabling 4
laser 17 electricity
caution static 39
damaged cover 3 electronics module
power supply 30 replacing 49
toxic materials 7 error
using liquids 38 computer communication 56
cleaning detector communication 57
iD1 Transmission Module 38 humidity 59
instrument 38 interferometer temperature 59
collecting data 15 laser frequency 59
collecting data with the iD1 19 laser temperature 59

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Index: F

laser voltage 58 iD1 Transmission Module 18

power supply voltage 58 cleaning 38
scanning 57 collecting data using 19
source voltage 58 installing 7
temperature 57 installing sample in 19
error messages 56 indicators
humidity 39
F initialization 6
installing
failure baseplate-mounted accessory 9
alignment 55
film sample 19
data collection 56
gas cell 14
laser verification 52
iD base adapter 9
film sample integrated accessories 7
installing 19 power supply 30
filter purge kit 22
purge 48 slide-mounted accessory 14
flow rate 15 source 33
and vibration 16 transmission cell 14
focus 19 instrument
focus point aligning 17
for infrared beam 19 altitude range for operation 3
Foundation Series accessory cleaning 38
installing 12 humidity range for operation 3
fuses purging 22
replacing 50 recommended humidity range 3
temperature range for operation 3
troubleshooting 52
G vent access for 6
gas cell 19 instrument information
installing 14 updating 19
grounding interferometer temperature error 59
how to properly 39
grounding specifications 4
L
laser
H calibrating 17
help replacing 49
about 2 verifying 17
humidity laser frequency error 59
recommended for instrument 3 laser temperature error 59
recommended for operation 3 laser verification failure 52
humidity error 59 laser voltage error 58
humidity indicator LED
checking 39 blinks continuously 53
ordering 47 does not light 52
liquid cell 19
I low signal 53
iD base adapter
installing 9 M
iD Foundation Adapter
maintenance 38
installing 12
manual conventions 1

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 Index: N

manuals 2 fuses 50
messages power supply 30
error 56 source 33
the detector 49
the electronics module 49
N the laser 49
narrow slot 19
noise spikes 54
S
sample
O focus 19
OMNIC software installing film 19
and instrument initialization 6 installing in iD1 Transmission Module 19
ordering parts 2 scanning error 57
outlet serial numbers
power 4 entering 19
shifting
P of peaks in the spectrum 52
signal
parts
too low 53
ordering 2
slide-mounted accessory
PDF documents 2
installing 10, 14
PDFs 2
slots
peaks in iD1 Transmission Module 19
shifted 52
solvents
Performance Verification test 17
warning 7
power
source
turning on or off 5
replacing 33
power indicator 6 source voltage error 58
blinks continuously 53
specification
does not light 52
for purge gas 15
power outlet
specifications
specifications for 4
for power outlet 4
power supply
spectrometer
replacing 30
aligning 17
power supply voltage error 58 cleaning 38
purge installing integrated accessory in 7
changing the filter 48 laser 17
for accessories 8 power 5
requirement 1 purging 15, 22
setting 15 troubleshooting 52
purge gas spectrum
specifications 15 noise spikes in 54
purge kit shifted peaks 52
installing 22 unstable baseline 55
static electricity precautions 39
R storing
regenerating desiccant 46 an accessory 8
removing Swap-Top Module
an accessory 8 installing 12
replacing
desiccant 42

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Index: T

T
technical support 2
Technical Support contact information 2
telephone numbers 2
temperature
recommended for instrument 3
temperature error 57
toxic materials
warning 7
transmission cell
installing 14
troubleshooting 51

U
unstable baseline 55
using
iD1 Transmission Module 18

V
vents
access to 6
verifying laser 17
vibration
and flow rate 16

W
warming up the instrument 6
warning
access 4
desiccant harmful if swallowed 44
for performing maintenance 21
hot source 33
open desiccant compartment 24, 42
power supply 30
purge gas 16, 22
replacement parts 21
use proper grounding 4
volatile solvents 7
wide slot 19

64 Nicolet iS5 User Guide Thermo Scientific