QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer

Software Manual
Part Number: 480114
QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual

COPYRIGHT CETAC Technologies reserves the right to

Copyright SD Acquisition, Inc., DBA revise this document and/or improve
CETAC Technologies products described herein at any time
480114 Version 1.0, June 2002 without notice or obligation. Warranty
For use with QuickTrace Mercury registration entitles the named owner
Analyzer software. exclusively to manual change pages/new
editions as they are published.

REPRODUCTION SAFETY
All rights reserved. Reproduction or Instruments, accessories, components or
transmission of this document in whole or other associated materials may not be
in part, and by any means without the returned to CETAC Technologies if
express written consent of the copyright contaminated with biohazard or
owner or authorized agent is prohibited. radioactive materials, infectious agents, or
Requests for additional copies of this, or any other materials and/or conditions that
any other CETAC publication, can be filled could constitute a health or injury hazard
by contacting an authorized distributor or: to CETAC employees. Call Customer
CETAC Technologies Service and Support if there is any
Customer Service & Support question or doubt relative to
14306 Industrial Road decontamination requirements.
Omaha, Nebraska 68144, USA
Phone (800) 369-2822 (USA only) CAUTION and WARNING statements, as
Phone (402) 733-2829 applied in this document, shall be
Fax (402) 733-1932 interpreted consistent with the following
E-mail [email protected] context: CAUTION applies only to
potential property damage conditions;
DISCLOSURE WARNING applies to potential personal
injury conditions, in combination with or
This document contains CETAC exclusive of potential property damage.
proprietary data and is provided solely to
its customers for their express benefit of All user-serviceable components are
safe, efficient operation and maintenance specifically identified in this document as
of the product described herein. Use or such; the balance shall be assumed to
disclosure of CETAC proprietary data for require the expertise of a factory service
the purpose of manufacture or technician/engineer for adjustment,
reproduction of the item described herein, repair, replacement, modification, etc.
or any similar item, is prohibited, and Others not so qualified and performing
delivery of this document shall not these actions shall do so at their own risk.
constitute any license or implied Furthermore, never operate the
authorization to do so. instrument without first reading and
understanding the QuickTrace M-7500
REVISIONS Mercury Analyzer Operator’s Manual or
M-6000A Mercury Analyze Operator’s
CETAC Technologies strives to provide
Manual and QuickTrace Mercury
the scientific community with an
Analyzer Software Manual and ensuring
unparalleled combination of effective
the instrument is operated safely and
technology and continuing value. Modular
properly.
upgrades for existing instruments will
continue to be a prime consideration as
designs progress.
 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual

ORIGINAL PACKAGING
Retain original factory packaging for
moves and factory return shipments.
Shipping in anything other than the
original fitted foam and container can
result in incidental damage from which
the purchaser will not be protected under
warranty.

WARNING
Under all conditions the user must observe safe laboratory
procedures during the operation of this product.
 Notices and Compliance Declarations

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS CANADIAN NOTICE

COMMISSION (FCC) NOTICE
This digital apparatus does not exceed the
This equipment has been tested and found Class A limits for radio noise emissions
to comply with the limits for a Class A from digital apparatus as set out in the
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the interference-causing equipment standard
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to entitled "Digital Apparatus." ICES-003 of
provide reasonable protection against the Department of Communications.
harmful interference in a commercial
installation. AVIS CANADIEN

This equipment generates, uses, and can Cet appareil numerique respecte les
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not limites de bruits radioelectriques
installed and used in accordance with the applicables aux appareils numeriques de
instructions, may cause harmful Classe A prescrites dans la norme sur le
interference to radio communications. materiel brouilleur: "Appareils
Operation of this equipment in a Numeriques," NMB-003 edictee par le
residential environment is likely to cause ministre des Communications.
harmful interference, in which case the
user will be required to correct the
interference at his own expense.

MODIFICATIONS
The FCC requires the user to be notified
that any changes or modifications made to
this device that are not expressly approved
by CETAC Technologies, Inc. may void the
user's authority to operate the equipment.

CABLES
Connections to this device must be made
with shielded cables with metallic RFI/EMI
connector hoods to maintain compliance
with FCC Rules and Regulations.

AD-1
 Notices and Compliance Declarations

POWER CORD SET REQUIREMENTS

The power cord set supplied with your If you use the instrument in another
instrument meets the requirements of the country, you must use a power cord set
country where you purchased the that meets the requirements of that
instrument. country.

This equipment is designed for connection to a grounded (earthed) outlet. The

WARNING grounding type plug is an important safety feature. To reduce the risk of electrical
shock or damage to the instrument, do not disable this feature.

To reduce the risk of fire hazard and electrical shock, do not expose the unit to rain or
humidity. To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. All maintenance
CAUTION is to be performed by an Authorized CETAC Service Provider.
Protection provided by the equipment may be impaired if the equipment is used in a
manner not specified by the manufacturer.

CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS
To clean the exterior surfaces of the instrument, complete the following steps:

1 Shut down and unplug the instrument. 3 Repeat step 2, using a towel dampened
with clear water.
2 Wipe the instrument exterior surfaces
only using a towel dampened with a 4 Dry the instrument exterior using a dry
lab-grade cleaning agent. towel.

Do not allow any liquid to enter the instrument cabinet, or come into contact with
WARNING any electrical components. The instrument must be thoroughly dry before you
reconnect power, or turn the instrument on.

COOLING FAN OBSTRUCTION

The instrument cooling fan(s) shall remain unobstructed at all times. Do not operate the
instrument if the cooling fan(s) are blocked or obstructed in any manner.

ENVIRONMENTAL

Operating Temperature: 10° to 30°C

Relative Humidity 0% to 95%

AD-2
 Notices and Compliance Declarations

AVERTISSEMENT
TOUT CONTACT AVEC LES HAUTES
AVERTISSEMENT TENSIONS PEUT ENTRAINER LA MORT
OU DES BLESSURES SÉVÈRES. CE
POUR UNE PROTECTION CONTINUÉ
PANNEAU NE DOIT ÊTRE ENLEVE QUE
CONTRE LES RISQUES D’INCENDIE,
PAR UN RÉPARATEUR QUALIFIÉ.
REMPLACER UNIQUEMENT PAR DES
FUSIBLES DE MÊME TYPE ET
AMPÈRAGE.

AVERTISSEMENT
NE PAS GLISSER LA MAIN SOUS OU DERIERE LES
ECRANS THERMIQUES DU FOUR. GARDER LA
PORTE D'ACCES AU DEVANT DU BOITIER BIEN
FERMEE POUR ASSURER LA PROTECTION CONTRE
LES BRULURES

AVERTISSEMENT
TOUT CONTACT AVEC LES HAUTES
TENSIONS PEUT ENTRAINER LA MORT
OU DES BLESSURES SÉVÈRES. CE
PANNEAU NE DOIT ÊTRE ENLEVE QUE
PAR UN RÉPARATEUR QUALIFIÉ.

AVERTISSEMENT
TOUT CONTACT AVEC LES HAUTES
TENSIONS PEUT ENTRAINER LA MORT
OU DES BLESSURES SÉVÈRES. CE
PANNEAU NE DOIT ÊTRE ENLEVE QUE
PAR UN RÉPARATEUR QUALIFIÉ.
Notices and Compliance Declarations

AVERTISSEMENT
AVERTISSEMENT SURFACES CHAUDES, LAISSER LE
COUVERCLE HERMÉTIQUEMENT
TOUT CONTACT AVEC LES HAUTES
FERMÉ.
TENSIONS PEUT ENTRAINER LA MORT
POUR ACCÉDER, METTRE LA
OU DES BLESSURES SÉVÈRES. CE
TEMPÉRATURE DU FOUR À ZÉRO,
PANNEAU NE DOIT ÊTRE ENLEVE QUE
OUVRIR LE COUVERCLE ET LAISSER
PAR UN RÉPARATEUR QUALIFIÉ.
REFROIDIR 5 MINUTES AVANT DE
TOUCHER LA VERRERIE OU TOUTE
SURFACE MÉTALLIQUE INTÉRIEURE.
WARNING
HIGH LEAKAGE CURRENT -
ENSURE PROPER GROUNDING
AVERTISSEMENT
COURANT DE FUITE ÉLEVÉ — FORNIR
UNE MISE À LA TERRE EFFICACE.

AVERTISSEMENT
POUR LA PROTECTION PERMANENTE
CONTRE UN CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE, UNE
BRÛLURE DES YEUX (RADIATION UV)
OU DE LA PEAU, LAISSER LE
COUVERCLE HERMÉTIQUEMENT
FERMÉ LORSQUE L’APPAREIL EST SOUS
TENSION.
LAISSER REFROIDIR 5 MINUTES
(APPAREIL ÉTEINT) AVANT D’ENLEVER
LE COUVERCLE.

AD-4
Contents
 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Contents

Contents

Preface....................................................................................... viii

Who Should Read This Book..................................................... viii

How to Use This Book ............................................................... viii

Conventions Used in This Book ................................................. ix

Instructions...............................................................................................................ix
Menu Items ..............................................................................................................ix
Notes........................................................................................................................ix
Cautions .................................................................................................................... x
Warnings................................................................................................................... x

Where to Go for More Information............................................................................xi

1 Introduction .............................................................................. 1-2

Software Features 1-2

Hardware/Software Requirements 1-3

Installing the Software 1-4

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 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Contents

2 Using Method Editor 2-1

What is a Worksheet? 2-2

Creating/Opening a Worksheet 2-3

To create a new worksheet from default parameters 2-3
To create a new worksheet from a template 2-5
To open an existing worksheet 2-5

Method Editor 2-7

Conditions Page 2-7
Operating Conditions 2-8
Signal Profile Chart 2-11
Signal Profile Chart Options 2-13
Creating the Time Profile 2-14

Standards Page 2-15

Calibration Parameters 2-15
Standards Concentration Table 2-18
Define Units Dialog 2-18

QC Tests Page 2-19

QC Test Solutions 2-20
To define QC Tests 2-23

3 Creating a Sequence 3-1

Autosampler/Autodilutor Setup 3-2

Configuring the Autosampler 3-3
Setting up the Autodilutor 3-4

Sequence Editor 3-6

Sequence Page 3-6
Auto QC Page 3-9
Calibration QC 3-11
Sample QC 3-12
Calibration/Sample QC Error Actions 3-12
To Insert a QC Test in Cal/Sample QC Error Actions 3-13
To Set the Error Action for Cal/Sample QC 3-13

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 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Contents

Auto QC Actions 3-13

To Create a New Auto QC Action 3-14
To Set the Error Actions for Auto QC 3-14
Manual QC Page 3-15
Manual Insertion Table 3-16
To Set the Action for Manually Inserted Tests 3-16

Sequence Screen 3-17

Sample Table 3-19
Sample Table Manipulation 3-20
Autosampler Guide 3-21

Sequence Parameters 3-22

Controls 3-23
Reports 3-24

4 Performing Analyses 4-1

Before Analyzing Samples 4-2

Analysis Screen 4-3

Analysis Control Buttons 4-3
Analysis Screen Displays 4-6
Sample Results Table 4-7
Signal Profile Chart 4-7
Calibration Chart 4-8
Worksheet Log 4-9

5 Report Options 5-1

Software Reference 5-2

Report Buttons 5-2
Worksheet Options 5-3
Settings Page 5-4

6 Instrument Tools 6-1

Baseline Chart 6-2

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 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Contents

Autosampler/Autodilutor Controls 6-3

Analyzer Controls 6-4

Maintenance Tracking 6-5

Instrument Log 6-6

7 Security 7-1

Security Options 7-2

Default Security 7-2
Security Basics under Windows NT/2000/XP 7-2

Installing QuickTrace Security Features 7-3

User Accounts 7-5

User Account Maintenance 7-6

8 Troubleshooting 8-1

Verify All Connections 8-2

Verify Software Configuration of Com Ports 8-3

Using HyperTerminal to Verify Communication 8-4

Printing and Windows 8-5

Glossary G-2

v
Preface
 Preface
The QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual provides an
overview and explains the theory of operation of the CETAC
QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer software.

Who Should Read This Book

The primary audience for the QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software
Manual consists of laboratory managers, chemists, technicians, field-
service engineers and owners of the QuickTrace M-7500 or M-6000A.
To use this manual safely and effectively, at least a general knowledge
of chemistry, electronic or laboratory equipment, and basic chemical
handling procedures are required, in addition to a basic understanding
of Windows operating systems.

WARNING
Before operating the QuickTrace M-7500 or the M-6000A and the
ASX-510 Auto Sampler, it is important to read the QuickTrace M-
7500 or M-6000A Mercury Analyzer Operator’s Manual and the
ASX-510 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual.

How to Use This Book

The QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual contains 8
chapters. Read the chapters sequentially the first time. Thereafter,
refer to the chapters separately as needed. The first chapter provides
an introduction to the Mercury Analyzer. Subsequent chapters detail
the user interface, method development, and operating procedures
associated with the QuickTrace software.

The 8 chapters are followed by a glossary of related terms and an index.

 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Preface

Conventions Used in This Book

This book uses certain conventions to distinguish different types of
information easily. This section describes these conventions.

Instructions
All step-by-step instructions begin with a “To” statement, and are then
numbered, as in the following example.

To open the QuickTrace software

1 Click on the CE TAC Mercury Analyzer icon located on your desktop.

Many numbered instructions are followed by more detailed

explanations.

Menu Items
This book uses the following format for referring to menu items:

Settings / Communication

The text before the “slash” symbol is the name of the menu; the text
after the slash symbol is the menu choice.

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 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Preface

Notes
Notes contain a reminder about the effect of particular actions. They
are indicated as follows:

Note:

This example shows how a note is displayed.

Cautions
Cautions indicate situations that require immediate attention to
prevent harm to the Mercury Analyzer. Cautions are indicated as
follows:

This example shows how a caution is displayed.

CAUTION

Warnings
Warnings indicate situations that could cause bodily harm. Warnings
are indicated as follows:

WARNING
This example shows how a warning is displayed.

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 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Preface

Where to Go for More Information

In addition to the QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual,
refer to the following resources:

QuickTrace Online Help

QuickTrace Software Tutorial

The QuickTrace M-7500 Mercury Analyzer Operator’s Manual OR the

M-6000A Mercury Analyzer Operator's Manual

The ASX-510 Auto Sampler Operator’s Manual

EPA Methods 245.1: Determination of Mercury in Water

EPA Method 1631: Determination of Mercury in Water

EPA Method 245.7 (draft): Determination of Mercury in Water

SW-846 Method 7470A; Mercury in Liquid Waste (Cold-Vapor

Technique)

SW-846 Method 7471A; Mercury in Solid or Semisolid Waste (Cold-

Vapor Technique)

ASTM D3223-91; Standard Test Method for Total Mercury in Water

CETAC Technologies Customer Service and Support:

Tel: 1 (800) 369-2822 (USA only)

Tel: 1 (402) 733-2829

Fax: 1 (402) 733-1932

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QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Preface

e-mail: [email protected]

xii
1

Introduction
QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Introduction

Introduction
The CETAC QuickTrace Hg software was developed to give the
Mercury Analyzer operator a comprehensive and multi-tasking
environment for method development, setup and analysis of samples,
and reporting/exporting data. Several important features and settings
are available, allowing the user to customize the software for their
particular applications.

The QuickTrace Hg software is compatible with the CETAC QuickTrace

M-7500 Mercury Analyzer and the CETAC M-6000A Mercury Analyzer.
The QuickTrace M-7500 Mercury Analysis System and the M-6000A
Mercury Analysis System are fully automated stand-alone cold vapor
atomic absorption (CVAA) spectrometers for the determination of
mercury in aqueous samples.

This brief chapter describes key features of the QuickTrace software,

computer requirements, and how to install the software.

Software Features and Capabilities

• Operation is based on familiar Microsoft Windows menus and
toolbars, with easy-to-use graphics and pull-down menus.

• Full control over instrument parameters (gas flow, peristaltic

pump speed, and Hg lamp status) and useful online information
make procedures simple and routine.

• Preloaded template worksheets with recommended operating

parameters make method development simple and quick.

• Many routine tasks such as auto zeroing sequence generation,

QC routines, detection limit calculation, and standby routines,
are automated to save time and prevent time-consuming errors.

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 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Introduction

• Data reprocessing and reporting capabilities include:

automated QC routines; worksheets, including method and
data, stored in a commercial database; easy generation of
customized reports; export to LIMS-friendly file formats

• Customization capabilities allow user to customize main

software screens, define concentration units, setup default
parameters, and perform shutdown routines.

• System flexibility should allow you to comply with the various

quality control protocols and regulatory procedures associated
with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and Good Automated
Laboratory Practice (GALP) requirements, as well as comply
with U.S. EPA Methods for the determination of mercury.

Hardware / Software Requirements

The QuickTrace Hg Software is designed to run with the following
minimum PC configuration:

• 400 MHz or faster Wintel PC

• Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 (service pack 6), Windows 2000

(service pack 1) or Windows XP

• Internet Explorer 4 or higher must be installed for the

help to function.

• 128 Megabytes of RAM

• CD-ROM drive

• Printer with a Windows driver

• 2 free COM Ports

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 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Introduction

• Video running at 1024 x 768 and at least 16 bit color

• PS/2 or Bus Mouse

It is necessary to have 2 free COM ports available, one each for the
Autosampler and the Mercury Analyzer.

Installing the Software

Be sure to install the Autosampler and the Mercury Analyzer before
installing the QuickTrace Hg software. See the QuickTrace M-7500
Mercury Analyzer Operator’s Manual and the ASX-510 Auto Sampler
Operator’s Manual for more information.

To install the CETAC QuickTrace Hg Mercury

Analyzer Software

1 Start Windows. Log in as a user with administrator privileges.

2 Insert the QuickTrace CD into the CD-ROM drive.

3 Wait for the CD-ROM to initialize. The setup program should start
automatically; if it does not, run the setup.exe program on the CD.

4 Follow the installation program’s prompts.

5 After the installation is finished, in the under the Start Menu in the
Program Files|CETAC QuickTrace folder there will be a shortcut
labeled “Specify Installed Hardware”. Run this program.

6 Specify hardware corresponding to that which is connected to the

computer (see Figure 1-1).

7 Open the QuickTrace software to initialize the default settings.

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 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Introduction

Figure 1-1. Define Hardware screen.

1–5
2

Using Method Editor

QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Using Method Editor

Developing a Worksheet
To perform analyses, you must first open or create a Worksheet. You can
then use the Method Editor to develop the new Worksheet, or to modify
parameters in an existing Worksheet.

What is a Worksheet?
A Worksheet is a single file consisting of a method (a complete set of
operating parameters), a sequence (includes standards, samples and QCs),
and the resulting analysis data and signal profiles. Once a Worksheet has
been defined, you may use it as a template to create future worksheets.
This enables you to conveniently use the instrument repeatedly under a
fixed set of operating conditions without having to re-enter the parameters
each time. Several different template Worksheets are included with the
software to provide optimized operating parameters for different levels of
sensitivity.

Worksheets may easily be modified, replicated, or created from any other

existing Worksheet. Using the security features provided, you may also
lock Worksheets against modification.

There are two types of Worksheets: Quantitative and Detection Limit. A

Quantitative Worksheet will be used for the analysis of samples. A
Detection Limit Worksheet is set up to automatically determine an
instrument or method detection limit.

Multi-tasking
More than one Worksheet may be open at a time, allowing you to multi-
task. For example, while running an analysis with one Worksheet, you
may develop the method for another Worksheet, or print a Report. Open
Worksheets will be displayed using bottom tabs. The “active” Worksheet,
which is the Worksheet you are currently working in, will be displayed as
the topmost tab.

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 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Using Method Editor

Creating/Opening a Worksheet
To create a new Worksheet, click on the down arrow next to the Worksheet
icon. A drop-down box appears, presenting you with three choices: New,
New From (existing Worksheet), and Open.

Figure 2-1. Worksheet icon with drop-down box.

New will allow you to open a Worksheet containing default operating

parameters for the Normal Range sensitivity mode.

New From is the recommended option when starting a new analysis. With
New From, you can create a new Worksheet from an existing Worksheet or
one of the provided Worksheet templates, which already contains a defined
set of operating parameters, calibration standards, and QC test solutions.

Open allows you to open an existing Worksheet for further use.

To create a new worksheet with default parameters

1 Select New, and a New Worksheet dialog window will appear (see
Figure 2-2).

2 Select from two types of Worksheets: Quantitative or Detection

Limit. (Detection Limit worksheets may only be used to determine an
IDL or MDL.)

3 Enter Worksheet name and comment (optional). The analyst name is

filled in automatically.

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QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Using Method Editor

4 Click on Save, and the Method Editor for the new Worksheet will
automatically open.

Figure 2-2. New Worksheet dialog window

Figure 2-3. New From Worksheet dialog window

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 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Using Method Editor

To create a new worksheet from a template

1 Select New From, and a dialog window will open (see Figure 2-3).

2 Click on the Browse button, select the desired Worksheet file/template,

and click on OK.

3 Enter a new Worksheet name. By checking the box “Retain Sequence

Definition Information”, you may carry over solution sequence
information to the new Worksheet.

4 Click OK, and the new Worksheet will open to the Method Editor.

Note:

To create a new Worksheet from an existing Worksheet or Worksheet

template (using New From), the existing Worksheet or Worksheet template
must be closed.

To open an existing worksheet

If you select Open, the Open Worksheet dialog window appears, allowing
you to select the desired Worksheet. The Worksheet will open to the
Sequence page.

Hint:

To quickly open an existing Worksheet, click on the Worksheet icon located

on the QuickTrace Software toolbar, OR in the File menu, click on Open…

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QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Using Method Editor

Figure 2-4. Open Worksheet dialog window.

The File menu (above the main toolbar) contains additional Worksheet
options:

Save. Saves any changes made to the “active” Worksheet.

Save As. Saves the Worksheet under a new name.

Note:

To rename a Worksheet, use the Save As command. Do not rename

Worksheet files in Windows Explorer, or the Worksheet will become invalid.

Close. Closes the Worksheet after prompting to save any pending changes.

Information. Lists information about the Worksheet.

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 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Using Method Editor

Method Editor
Once you have created or opened a Worksheet, you can use the Method
Editor. To open Method Editor, click on the Method Editor icon located on
the main toolbar.

Method Editor contains a set of analysis parameters for a Worksheet,

including operating conditions, calibration information, and QC Tests. The
Method Editor contains three tabs/pages: Conditions, Standards, and
QC Tests.

Conditions includes the Mercury Analyzer operating parameters that will

be used to control how measurements are performed.

Standards includes several calibration parameters, including calibration

standards and calibration limits.

QC Tests includes the QC Solution definitions and test parameters.

Conditions page
You can use the parameters on this page to define a Time Profile. The Time
Profile controls data collection during the sample analysis. It consists of the
Integration Read time at the top of the absorbance signal profile and 1 or 2-
point Baseline Correction times. The signal chart with colored bars
describing the Integration Read Time and the Baseline Correction times
makes it simple for you to create the Time Profile.
To display the Conditions page, click the Conditions tab in Method Editor.

When one of the pre-loaded Worksheet templates is used to create a new

Worksheet, default operating parameters for that sensitivity range will be
shown. Tables 2-1a and 2-1b show the recommended configurations for
several instrument sensitivity ranges.

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QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Using Method Editor

Figure 2-5. Conditions page in Method Editor

Operating Conditions

Gas flow. This is the carrier gas flow rate for the analysis. Valid gas flow
rates range from 20 – 350 mL/min for the M-7500 Mercury Analyzer, and
35 – 350 mL/min for the M-6000A. See Tables 2-1a and 2-1b for suggested
optimized parameter ranges.

Pump Speed. This controls the rate that the sample and reagent solutions
will be pumped into the gas-liquid separator during analysis. Sample and
reagent flow rates depend on both the peristaltic pump type (M-7500 or M-
6000A) and the pump tubing. 100% speed recommended for both M-7500
and M-6000A.

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 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Using Method Editor

Sipper Depth. This value determines how far the autosampler probe
moves down into the sample tube. A higher number will allow the probe to
move further down. A lower number will not allow the probe to reach the
bottom of the tube, which is useful in preventing uptake of particulates
which may collect in the tube bottom. Allowable range is 0 – 155 mm.

Sample Uptake Time. This is the time that the autosampler probe
remains in the sample tube, allowing uptake of liquid. Recommended
values range from 20 – 110 seconds, depending on the gas flow rate.

Rinse Time. This is the time that the autosampler probe remains in the
rinse solution, between samples. The sum of Sample Uptake time and
Rinse time equals the total analysis time for one sample. Recommended
values for Rinse Time range from 30 – 160 seconds, depending on the gas
flow rate.

Read Delay Time. This is the time that the system waits before it starts
to measure the signal. This delay allows the signal to stabilize before
measurement begins.

The read delay time is also the starting point of the Integration Read time,
indicated by a green bar on the Signal Profile chart. The sample analysis
stop point (the red bar) equals the Read Delay time plus the Replicate Read
Time multiplied by the number of Replicates.

Replicate Read Time. This is the length of time data is collected for a
single replicate.

Replicates. This is the number of readings to be collected for each test

solution. Allowable range is 1 – 10.

Replicates are used by the software to determine %RSD for the selected
Integration Read time of the signal profile. Replicates are “slices” of the
Integration Read time. For example, a 10 second Integration Read time
may be sliced into five 2-second replicates. The more replicates, the more
accurate the %RSD.

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Using Method Editor

A large %RSD indicates that the peak is abnormal, or that the Integration
read time and/or Baseline correction times are not positioned correctly.

Auto Adjust Replicate Read time. Replicate Read time will be

automatically adjusted if the number of Replicates is changed, or if the
Integration Read time bars are moved.

Baseline Drift Correction Checkbox. The software will calculate a

single point drift correction on the signal profile to help compensate for
baseline drift. (Instrument drift is primarily caused by thermal variation).
Drift correction is recommended for all mercury concentration levels. This
Baseline Correction point is measured at the baseline, before the
Integration Read time.

Baseline Point #1 Start Read / End Read. These parameters designate

the start and stop times of the 1st Baseline Correction Point, designated by
teal blue and burgundy bars on the Signal Profile chart. Both values for
Start Read and End Read must be at the baseline, before the signal begins
to rise.

Two-point Baseline Correction Checkbox. The software will calculate a

2-point drift correction on the signal profile to adjust for baseline drift.
Baseline point #1 is taken before the signal profile peaks, and Baseline
point #2 is taken after the signal has returned to baseline. Two-point
correction is recommended for low mercury concentration levels (below 100
ppt), and is necessary to achieve the lowest possible detection limits.

Since Baseline point #2 must be acquired after the sample/standard washes

out, additional rinse time is needed to allow the signal to return to baseline.
This amount of time depends on the gas flow and the sample concentration.

Baseline Point #2 Start Read / End Read. These parameters designate

the start and stop times of the 2 nd Baseline Correction Point, indicated by
olive and purple bars on the Signal Profile chart. Both values for Start
Read and End Read must be taken after the sample/standard has
completely washed out, and the signal has returned to baseline.

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 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Using Method Editor

RANGE #1: ULTRA-TRACE SENSITIVITY

Application: Very Low Concentration Range < 0.2 - 100 ppt Hg
Gas Flow 20 mL/min
Pump Speed 100 %
Sample Uptake Time 90 - 100 s
Rinse Time 150 - 160s
Baseline Correction Method 2 point
Oven Temperature Set Point 60°C
Detection Limit (nominal)* < 0.2 ppt
Sample Throughput Rate 4 min/sample

RANGE #2: HIGH SENSITVITY

Application: Low Concentration Range 1.0 – 500 ppt Hg
Gas Flow 40 mL/min
Pump Speed 100%
Sample Uptake Time 40 s
Rinse Time 80 - 100s
Baseline Correction Method 2 point
Oven Temperature Set Point 70°C
Detection Limit (nominal) 1.0 ppt
Sample Throughput Rate 3 min/sample

Table 2-1a. Instrument Parameters to Optimize Throughput vs.

Sensitivity

Signal Profile Chart

The Signal Profile chart shows an Absorbance Signal, plotting Sensitivity
(micro-Absorbance counts) versus Analysis time (seconds). It allows you to
visually examine and edit the Time Profile.

Timing and gas/liquid flow parameters affect dynamic range (sensitivity,

detection limit and the largest measurable Hg concentration), %RSD,
washout time, and sample throughput rate.

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RANGE #3: NORMAL RANGE

Application: Medium Throughput Range 0.05 - 10 ppb Hg
Gas Flow 125 mL/min
Pump Speed 100 %
Sample Uptake Time 25 s
Rinse Time 45 - 60s
Baseline Correction Method 1 point
Oven Temperature Set Point 70°C
Detection Limit (nominal) 10 ppt
Sample Throughput Rate 1:10 min/sample

RANGE #4: HIGH THROUGHPUT

Application: High Throughput Range 0.2 – 50 ppb Hg
Gas Flow 300-350 mL/min
Pump Speed 100%
Sample Uptake Time 20 s
Rinse Time 20 - 40s
Baseline Correction Method 1 point
Oven Temperature Set Point 70°C
Detection Limit (nominal) 20 ppt
Sample Throughput Rate 40 sec - 1min/sample

Table 2-1b. Instrument Parameters to Optimize Throughput vs.

Sensitivity

Gas Flow

Gas flow affects sensitivity, the largest measurable Hg concentration,

washout time, and sample throughput rate. High gas flow rates give less
sensitivity, but allow larger Hg concentrations to be measured. Higher gas
flow rates also shorten washout time, improve the signal profile shape, and
increase sample throughput rate. Gas flow rates below 100 mL/min need
only be used to determine the best possible detection limits, and for the
analysis of low concentration samples (below 100 ppt).

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Liquid Flow

Sample and reagent flow rates are determined by the peristaltic pump
speed and the pump tubing diameters. To achieve a good %RSD for the
signal profile, sample and reagent flow rates are optimized to guarantee
complete coverage of the Gas-liquid separator (GLS) center post at all times.
See Tables 2-1a and 2-1b for suggested optimized pump speed settings.

Timing Bars

The Signal Profile chart uses colored bars to designate Start Read and End
Read times for the signal profile and the Baseline Drift Corrections. From
st
the left, The 1 Baseline Point is designated by teal blue and burgundy
bars. Next, green and red bars designate the Integration Read time on top
nd
of the signal peak. The Start and End Read times of the 2 Baseline Point
are designated by olive and purple bars.

During Time Profile setup, the timing bars may be moved by clicking the
left-mouse button on a bar and dragging it to the desired location.

Signal Profile Chart Options

Gridlines. Horizontal gridlines may be selected/deselected.

Clipboard. Copies the Signal Profile to the clipboard in bitmap

format.

Printer. Prints the Signal Profile.

Zoom Out. This demagnifies the chart. An area of the chart can be
magnified by selecting the desired area with the left mouse button. To
zoom, hold down the left mouse button and move the mouse right and down
to encompass the desired area. To unzoom, hold down the left mouse
button and move towards the upper left corner of the chart, or click on the
button.

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Read. Pops up a tube selection dialog window to begin a single

sample analysis, which is not stored as data.

Auto-Zero. Zeroes the system baseline.

Scrolling. Click-and-drag with the right mouse button on the chart to

scroll to the right or left, up or down.

Additional features available from the File menu include:

Save. Saves new or edited parameters within the three sections of Method
Editor.

Print Chart. Prints the Signal Profile Chart on the Conditions page.

Creating the Time Profile

To determine where to place the colored bars, a standard must be analyzed
to create an Absorbance signal. The highest concentration calibration
standard should be used to examine and edit the Time Profile, because the
time it takes to reach the highest Absorbance signal will be longer than
that of a lower concentration standard.

Before you create the Time Profile, the instrument must be prepared to run
samples. The instrument should be fully warmed up, with gas and liquid
flows established. (See the Operator’s Manual for setting up the Mercury
Analyzer.)

To edit/create the Time Profile

1 Click the Read button above the Time Profile chart.

2 Select the desired Autosampler tube position, containing a Calibration

Standard, and click OK. The signal measurement will begin.

3 When the measurement is finished, click-and-drag the blue and burgundy

bars to a flat area on the baseline before the signal peak rises. This

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determines where the 1st Baseline Correction point will be measured.

(Baseline drift Correction box must be checked for the bars to be visible.)

4 To set the Integration Read time, move the green and red bars to the
“flattest” portion at the top of the signal peak.

5 To set the 2nd Baseline correction point (if desired), move the olive and
purple bars to a flat area after the signal peak has completely washed out.

6 After the Signal Profile has been configured correctly, and operating
conditions have been selected, click Save from the File menu.

Standards page
You can use this page to define calibration standards and concentrations,
and to select units and the calibration equation. You can also define
calibration limits and tests.

To display the Standards page, click on the Standards tab in Method

Editor.

Calibration Parameters

Calibration Algorithm. The calibration algorithm defines the

relationship between intensity and concentration for your samples. Select
from the drop-down box: Linear or Quadratic.

A Linear calibration uses a least squares curve fitting, with the formula y
= ax + b.

A Quadratic calibration uses a quadratic least squares curve fitting, with

the formula y=ax2 + bx +c.

Weighted Fit. This option weights the points of the calibration curve so
that those with less error have a higher weighting. The line is then
constructed so that it will be closer to the points with higher weightings.

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Figure 2-6. Standards page in Method Editor

Weighted fit allows you to compensate for errors, by making them smaller
where the signal is most accurate.

Through Blank. This option specifies whether or not to force the

calibration curve through the calibration blank solution.

1631 Calibration. Select this option to perform a calibration as defined by

U.S. EPA Method 1631.

Number of Calibration Standards. You can use up to 10 calibration

standards. These standards will be analyzed in sequence, starting with the
calibration blank. To select the number, click on the up arrow. As the
number of standards is increased or decreased, a row will be added to or
removed from the Standard Concentrations table.

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Units. This field shows the concentration units for the calibration
standards. The units specified here will be used throughout the Worksheet.

Recalibration Rate. This field determines how often a calibration is

performed during the sample run, by selecting the number of samples, not
including calibration standards or QCs, to be analyzed before repeating the
calibration.

Whenever a calibration is performed, the standards are run and the new
calibration replaces the previous calibration. If the Recalibration Rate is
set to zero, then the initial calibration will not be replaced during the
analysis. If the Recalibration Rate is set to 20, then for every 20 th sample,
the calibration standards will be rerun, and the calibration curve will be
recalculated.

Reslope Rate. This field determines how often a reslope of the calibration
is performed, by selecting the number of samples to be analyzed before
resloping the calibration.

If a linear calibration algorithm is being used, then the Analyzer can be

forced to reslope the calibration curve by rerunning a standard and
checking for deviance from the previous calibration information. If the
result differs by more than is considered acceptable (determined by the user
in the Method Editor), then the slope of the calibration curve is updated.

Note:

When considering the use of recalibration or resloping the user should

consider the amount of standard solution available and the number of times
the recalibrate or reslope is to be performed. It may be desirable to reslope
every 20th sample. However if a batch of 360 samples were being run, then
standard solution volume sufficient for 18 analyses would then be required.

Reslope Standard Number. Select the desired Standard to be used for

performing a reslope of the calibration. To select a Standard, click on the
drop-down box and select the desired Standard #. It is recommended to

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select a standard from the middle of the concentration range of the

calibration.

Calibration Slope (Upper and Lower Limits). These values express the
maximum allowable change in the slope between successive pairs of
standards. When the slope changes by more than the specified percentages,
then the defined Calibration Error action will occur. To set these limits,
click on the up/down arrows to get the desired percentages.

Reslope Slope Test (Upper and Lower Limits). When the Calibration
slope differs from the previous Calibration by more than the specified
percentages, then the defined Calibration Error action will occur. To set
these limits, click on the up/down arrows to get the desired percentages.

Upon Calibration Error. This field determines what action to take when
the calibration fails. Stop will halt the analysis. Flag and continue will flag
the calibration curve but continue the analysis.

Standard Concentrations Table

The columns under Standard Name and Tube will automatically be filled in
when the number of Calibration Standards is greater than zero. To
customize standard names, select Standard Names from the Tools menu
at the top of the Method Editor window. Enter the desired names and click
OK to save. The autosampler tube position may be changed by clicking the
ellipsis button under the Tube column, and selecting the desired tube.
Under Concentration, enter the appropriate concentration for each
standard.

Define Units Dialog

Under the Tools menu of Method Editor is a feature called Define Units.
This allows the user to define customized units. Ten commonly used units
are available.

Unit Table. Displays a list of all the currently defined units. Highlight
the unit in the table to view its multiplier and divider values in the
corresponding fields.

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Delete. Deletes the currently highlighted unit, if it is not being used in the
current worksheet. If the highlighted unit is being used, it cannot be
deleted.

Delete all. Deletes all units from the table, except those currently being
used in the worksheet.

Unit name. Lists the name of the currently highlighted unit.

Multiplier. Displays the multiplier value for the currently highlighted

unit.

Divider. Displays the divider value for the currently highlighted unit.

Add. Adds a new (customized) unit to the table. The unit must be defined
with a multiplier and divider before adding it to the table (see To define
customized units below).

To define customized units

For QuickTrace to correctly use the unit, it must be specified relative to ppt,
which is the default unit of measure. So for example if you wanted to add
Kg/L the multiplier would be one and the divider would be 1.0E-12 (or
0.000000000001).

To add a new unit, enter the unit name, the multiplier and divider and click
Add.

QC Tests page
You will use this page to enter QC solution concentrations and test
parameters, such as upper and lower limits which trigger failure actions by
the software. You may also enter detection limits and %RSD limits.

To display the QC Tests page, click on the QC Tests tab in Method Editor.

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QC Test Solutions. This column specifies the QC Test Solutions that are
available, including several types of Check Standards, Check Blanks,
Spikes, and Duplicates.

Check Standards. Select a Check Standard and enter the QC

concentration and upper/lower recovery limits.

• Continuing Calibration Verification (CCV) – a solution of

known concentration used to verify the accuracy of a calibration.
The CCV should be performed at regular intervals during the
analysis.

• Initial Calibration Verification (ICV) - a solution of known

concentration used to verify the accuracy of a calibration. The ICV
should be performed immediately after every full calibration.

• Contract Required Detection Limit (CRDL) - the Contract

Required Detection Limit Standard (sometimes known as the CRI).
The CRDL is defined as the minimum level of detection acceptable
under the Contract Statement of Work for the US-EPA. The CRDL
must be run after the calibration, immediately proceeding the ICV,
ICB pair.

• Lab Control Sample (LCS) - an independent check sample very

similar to the QC Standard concept. The true composition is known
and the % recovery can be calculated and tested against the
specified upper and lower recovery limits.

• Initial Precision and Recovery (IPR) - The initial precision and

recovery test is used for initial demonstration of a laboratory's
capability to produce results that are at least as precise and
accurate as results from practice of the method at other
laboratories. It can also be used to show that a modified method is
precise and accurate as the reference method.

• Ongoing Precision and Recovery (OPR) - The ongoing precision

and recovery test is used to demonstrate that the analytical system
is within the performance criteria of method 1631 and that
accepatable precision and accuracy are being maintained within
each analytical batch.

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Figure 2-7. QC Tests page in Method Editor

Check Blanks. Select a Check Blank, and enter the maximum

concentration.

• Preparation Blank (PBK) - a volume of distilled, de-ionized water

or other blank matrix that is processed through the sample
preparation procedures. The preparation blank demonstrates
freedom from possible contamination during the sample preparation
process.

• Continuing Calibration Blank (CCB) - a check blank that is

analyzed with a CCV at regular intervals during the analysis.

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• Initial Calibration Blank (ICB) - a check blank that is analyzed

with an ICV after the calibration.

• Method Blank (MB) - used to demonstrate that the analytical

system is free from contamination that could otherwise compromise
sample results. Method 1631 stipulates that a minimum of three
method blanks per analytical batch are required.

• Reagent Blank (RB) – a check blank analyzed to determine the

Hg concentration in the reagents. Reagent blanks are required
when the batch of reagents is prepared, with periodic verification
during the month until a new batch of reagents is needed.

• Equipment Blank (EB) – Equipment Blanks are generated before

using the sampling equipment, to demonstrate that the sampling
equipment is free from contamination. Bottle blanks and sampler
check blanks are the two types of equipment blanks required by
Method 1631.

• Field Blank (FB) – Field Blanks demonstrate that the field

environment is free from contamination. Field blank(s) should be
shipped with each set of samples. They should be analyzed
immediately before the samples in the batch.

Spikes and Duplicates. Select a Spike/Duplicate, and enter

concentrations and limits.

• QC Spike (SPK) - used to determine whether any significant

contamination is present. A known amount of Hg is added to the
sample after the sample has been digested. % Recovery is calculated
and tested against the specified upper and lower recovery limits.
The QC Spike sample is placed immediately after the matching
sample.

• Matrix Spike (MSK) - The Matrix Spike and Matrix Spike

Duplicate are analyzed to quantify the amount of bias and precision
caused by the sample matrix. A known amount of Hg is added to the

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sample pre-digestion and is subjected to the entire analytical

procedure. The % Recovery indicates the effects of the preparation
procedures on the recovery of Hg.

• Matrix Spike Duplicate (MDUP) – The Matrix Spike and Matrix

Spike Duplicate are analyzed to quantify the amount of bias and
precision caused by the sample matrix. A known amount of Hg is
added to the sample pre-digestion and is subjected to the entire
analytical procedure. The % Recovery indicates the effects of the
preparation procedures on the recovery of Hg.

• Duplicates (DUP) – A Duplicate test involves splitting a sample in

two and processing each half of the sample through the same
sample preparation procedure, in order to determine the precision of
the method. The duplicate will always follow the original sample.

Specify Limits. Click on the box next to the desired tests, so that a check
appears. Enter in the appropriate parameters for each limit test.

• Replicate %RSD Limit

• Required Detection Limit

• Instrument Detection Limit

To define QC Test Solutions

Select the desired QC Test Soution. The QC Test parameters, a test
definition, and an error flag are displayed to the right. The test parameters
may be changed by selecting the appropriate cell, and entering the desired
number.

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QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Creating a Sequence

Creating a Sequence
Once the Worksheet method has been developed, you may set up the
Sequence of test solutions. The Sequence allows you to determine in
what order to run the samples, calibration standards, and quality
control tests.

This chapter will describe how to create a Sequence. You will configure
Autosampler racks, enter in solution information, and automate the
actions that will occur before, during, or after a sample run. These
sections are used to create a Sequence: Autosampler/Autodilutor setup,
Sequence screen, Sequence Editor, and Sequence Parameters.

The Autosampler/Autodilutor setup window displays the

configuration of the Autosampler racks and tube sizes, and dilution
parameters.

The Sequence Editor is used to automatically generate a Sequence.

With Sequence Editor, you can set up a sequence of measurements,
which may include samples, calibration solutions, and quality control
tests.

The Sequence screen displays a table where you can manually enter
and/or edit sample information.

Sequence Parameters is used to automate the actions that will occur

during and after a run. For example, you can choose whether to leave
the lamp on or off at the end of a run, and what action to take in cases
where the calibration fails, or if you run out of dilution tubes.

Autosampler/Autodilutor Setup
Clicking this button will pop up a window used to configure the
Autosampler and Autodilutor, and to define the types of racks in the
Autosampler tray.

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Configuring the Autosampler

At the top of this window is a visual representation of the Autosampler
rack layout. Autosampler racks are numbered 1-4 from left to right,
and tube numbers are numbered from back to front, left to right for
each rack. The Standards rack, located at the back of the Autosampler
tray, is called S, with tube positions 1-10.

Figure 3-1. Autosampler and Autodilutor Setup window

Rack Definitions

The default setting is a 60 x 14mL rack (this means 60 14mL vials per
rack). There are 5 different rack types available. Select the
appropriate rack types from the drop-down boxes on the left. Changes
in the rack types are immediately reflected in the display.

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Note:

The default Rack size used when creating a new Worksheet can be
customized from the Sequence tab of the Preferences menu.

You can designate each rack to be used for samples, QC standards, or

dilution tubes (if you are using the ADX-500 Auto Dilutor). The
standards rack may be used only for calibration standards and QCs.
Since the standards rack holds a maximum of 10 calibration standards
and calibration QCs, if you have additional calibration standards or
calibration QCs, you may place them into the other racks, which are
primarily used for samples. Select the desired configuration from the
drop-down box.

CAUTION Failure of the analyst to use the correct rack sizes for the ASX-510
Autosampler can cause the sipper probe to jam against a solid object
like a rack or a sample tube. This may bend/damage the tip of the
sipper probe as well as other parts of the Autosampler. This type of
damage may not be covered in the warranty.

Setting up the Autodilutor

If you are using the ADX-500 Autodilutor (connected to the ASX-510
Autosampler), you will use the following parameters. Samples may be
diluted in user-selected ratios, such as 1:5 or 1:10, as long as the
combined sample and diluent volume does not exceed the volume
capacity of the tube.

The Autodilutor setup window includes the following parameters:

Enable dilution. Select this option to enable the Autodilutor for

analysis. If it is not selected, the Autodilutor will be not be used.

Start of dilution range. This is the first tube position that will be
used for diluting samples. Enter the appropriate tube position or use
the icon to click on the desired starting position on the Autosampler
guide. If you start the dilution range from a rack that was not

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originally designated for dilutions, the rack designation will change

automatically.

Number of dilution tubes. Enter the total number of empty tubes

available for diluted samples.

Dilute when. Select to dilute the sample either when the instrument
saturates or when the sample concentration is above the range of the
calibration.

Allow successive dilutions. If this field is checked, samples will

continue to be diluted and analyzed, until they pass the criteria
specified under Dilute when. If this option is not selected, they will be
diluted only once.

Note:

Errors induced by successive dilutions are a multiple of the dilution

factor, so diluting more than once may decrease accuracy in the result.
For example, after a single dilution of 1:10, errors in accuracy are
multiplied by 10, but after two successive dilutions of 1:10, the errors in
accuracy are multiplied by 100.

Dilute samples by. Select the desired dilution ratio. For example, to
perform a 1:10 dilution, set the number to 10. Allowable values are 2 –
10.

Final dilution volume. Enter the desired final volume in mL of the

diluted sample. The final diluted sample volume must correspond with
the rack size and tube volumes.

If no more tubes. If you run out of dilution tubes during the analysis,
you have three choices: prompt for new tubes, continue undiluted, or
terminate analysis. Prompt for new tubes will pause the analysis and
display a message that new tubes are needed. Continue undiluted
allows the analysis to continue, but no more dilutions will be

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performed. Stop analysis will stop the analysis when all available
dilution tubes have been used.

Sequence Editor
The Sequence Editor enables you to automatically generate a sequence
of mercury determinations, which may include samples, calibration
solutions and quality control tests. It consists of 3 tabs/pages:
Sequence, Auto QC, and Manual QC.

Sequence is used to determine the number of samples in the analysis

and how often calibrations will be performed.

Auto QC is used to determine where to place QCs within the

automatically generated sequence, and which test-and-error actions
will be performed for each QC test solution.

Manual QC is used to determine which test-and-error actions will be

used if you manually enter/edit QCs from the main Sequence screen,
which contains the Sample Table.

Sequence page
The Sequence page of the Sequence Editor is accessed by clicking on the
Sequence icon button. On this page, you will decide how many samples
are to be analyzed, and how to insert calibrations within the sample
run.

Sample Count. Enter the number of samples to be included in the

sequence. Use the up/down arrows to the right of the Sample count field
to adjust the number of samples, or enter a number directly into the
field box. The valid range is 1–1000.

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Note:

The number of samples entered does not include standards and QC

solutions. (Standards are set in the Method Editor and QC solutions are
set on the QC Solutions page of the Sequence Editor dialog.)

Figure 3-2. Sequence page in Sequence Editor.

Starting Sample Position. This is the rack:tube location of the first

sample in the autosampler. Type in the location or click the button ( …)
to select the location from the autosampler visual.

Starting Sample ID. This is the name you give to the sample(s). It
will be incremented automatically. Enter a name or use the default.
(You can edit the IDs from the Sample Table on the Sequence screen).

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Sample ID increment. This field is used only if you wish to

increment the Sample IDs in values other than 1. For example, if you
enter a Starting Sample ID of Water 01, and select a Sample ID
increment of 3, samples will be labeled: Water 01, Water 04, Water 07,
etc. Enter a number or use the up/down arrows to select a number.

Inserting Calibrations

With this section, you will determine how to insert calibrations within
the sequence. Select 1 or more of the following options:

Begin with Calibration. Select this option to perform a calibration at

the beginning of the sequence. This option is always recommended.

Note:

You must have a calibration curve for the Worksheet before you can
measure mercury in samples. It is recommended to calibrate at the
beginning of every sample batch analysis.

Recalibration. Select this option to automatically recalibrate every

fixed number of samples. Enter a number or use the up/down arrows to
the right to select at which point to recalibrate samples.

Note:

When setting recalibration rates, note that some of the QC tests are
treated as samples. For example, by default Duplicates, Dilutions and
Laboratory Control Samples are treated as samples, and are therefore
included in the sample count.

End with Calibration. Select this option to perform a calibration at

the end of the sequence.

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Note:

The default settings for these options can be set on the Sequence tab of
the Preferences dialog. The next time you create a worksheet, the
default options you set for the sequence will be implemented.

Generate a Sequence

If you are not using QC tests, you may click the Generate Sequence
button at the bottom right corner to display the sequence of samples
and calibration standards. This will immediately close the Sequence
Editor, so that you may view the Sample Table on the Sequence screen.

To add QC tests, use the Auto QC or Manual QC pages to select the test
intervals and error actions, covered in the following sections.

Auto QC page
You will use this page (Figure 3-3) to determine where to place QC
solutions within the automatically generated Sequence, and what test-
and-error actions will be performed. To display the Auto QC page,
select the Auto QC tab from the Sequence Editor.

The left column shows a list of the available QC test solutions. QCs will
be defined as either Calibration QCs (color-coded in yellow) or Sample
QCs (color-coded in green).

The right column displays the insertion points and error actions. From
this column, you can change the error action for each insertion point.

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Figure 3-3. Auto QC page of Sequence Editor

Note:

The QuickTrace Hg software is designed to comply with U.S. EPA

requirements. This means that QCs are categorized as either
Calibration or Sample related QC tests. The guidelines for when these
tests can be inserted into the analysis sequence are also quite stringent.
The Calibration QC Error Actions and the Sample QC Error Actions
have been set up to comply with U.S. EPA regulations.

You can choose to include any or all of the available QC tests in the
current sequence by highlighting the test in the left column and
dragging it into the Calibration QC, Sample QC or Auto QC sections in
the right column. A more thorough explanation of the options available
for each follows:

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Calibration QC
This section enables you to include Calibration QC tests in your
sequence, at one of the following five insertion points:

• Beginning of run

• After first calibration

• Before re-calibration

• After re-calibration

• End of run

The following tests are categorized as Calibration QC tests and can be

added to the Calibration QC or Auto QC Actions:

• Initial Calibration Verification

• Initial Calibration Blank

• Continuing Calibration Verification

• Continuing Calibration Blank

• Preparation Blank

• Method Blank

• Reagent Blank

• Equipment Blank

• Field Blank

• Laboratory Control Sample

• Contract Required Detection Limit

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• Initial Precision and Recovery

• Ongoing Precision and Recovery

Sample QC
This section enables you to include Sample QC tests in your sequence,
at one of the following two insertion points:

• On first sample

• On first sample after calibration

The following tests are categorized as Sample QC Tests:

• QC Spike

• Matrix Spike

• Matrix Spike Duplicate

• Duplicate

Calibration/Sample QC Error Actions

You can also select what action will occur if an error results. The
following error actions will be available:

• Stop analysis

• Flag and continue

• Repeat, flag and continue

• Re-calibrate and repeat

• Re-calibrate and repeat with samples

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• Reslope and repeat

To insert a QC test in the Calibration/Sample QC error

actions
1. Highlight the Calibration or Sample QC test solution from the left
column.

2. Hold down the mouse and drag the test to the Calibration or
Sample QC Error Actions insertion point, in the right column. For
example, if it is a Sample QC test, drag it to the ‘On first sample’ or
‘On first sample after calibration’ position.

To set the error action for Calibration/Sample QC

1. Right-click on the required QC interval (e.g. ‘After first
calibration…’) and select Properties from the drop-down menu.
Select the action to occur in the event of an error.

2. Click OK.

The QC interval will then be updated with the new selection. For
example, if you selected ‘Re-calibrate and repeat’, the action would read
‘After first calibration, re-calibrate and repeat upon error’.

Auto QC Actions
You may use this section to define your own error actions. Both
Calibration QCs and Sample QCs may be placed in this section.

The Auto QC Actions section enables you to insert Calibration QC and

Sample QC tests at a specified interval during the analysis. To include
QC tests in Auto QC Actions, it is first necessary to create a new Auto
QC action. Then you can specify the interval and action properties.

You can also select what action will occur if an error results. The
following error actions will be available:

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• Stop analysis

• Flag and continue

• Repeat, flag and continue

• Re-calibrate and repeat

• Re-calibrate and repeat with samples

• Reslope and repeat

To create a new Auto QC action

Before you can add QC test solutions to the Auto QC Actions section,
you will need to create one or more Auto QC actions:

1. Right-click in the Auto QC Actions area and select New Auto QC

Action from the drop-down menu. A new (default) action will be
displayed, enabling you to add QC Tests in the same manner
described in “To insert a QC test in the Calibration/Sample QC
Error Actions’ (p. 3-13).

Note:

Both Calibration QC and Sample QC tests cannot be included under the

same Auto QC action, as this contradicts U.S. EPA requirements.
Additionally, separate Calibration and Sample Auto QC Actions cannot
be created to have the same sample count and error action properties
(e.g. two Auto QC Actions cannot be set as ‘Every 20 samples, stopping
upon error’), as this would be the same as mixing Sample and
Calibration QCs.

To set the error actions for Auto QC

Once you have created an Auto QC action, you can specify the
properties of the action as follows:

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Creating a Sequence

1. Highlight the Auto QC action, right-click on it and select

Properties from the drop-down menu.

2. Set the interval between samples at which you want the Auto QC
action to be analyzed by typing a number in the ‘Every’ field, or by
using the up/down arrows. Select the action to occur in the event of
an error from the drop-down box.

3. Click OK. The action properties will be updated with the new
parameters.

Note:

When setting the Auto QC test interval, note that some of the QC tests
are treated as samples. For example, by default Duplicates, Serial
Dilutions and Laboratory Control Samples are treated as samples, and
are therefore included in the sample count.

To generate a Sequence
Once you have setup the QC test intervals and error actions, you may
click the Generate Sequence button at the bottom right corner to
display the sequence of samples, calibration standards, and QCs. This
will close the Sequence Editor, so that you may view the Sample Table
on the Sequence screen.

Manual QC page
You will use this page to set the error actions for QC test solutions that
are entered manually into the Sample table on the main Sequence
screen. Also, if you change a Sample to a QC on the Samples table, it
will be considered a manual insertion, and will use the error action as
described on this page.

To display the Manual QC page, select the Manual QC tab from the
Sequence Editor.

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Creating a Sequence

Manual Insertion Table

The left column shows a list of the available QC test solutions (see
Figure 3-4). The right column displays the error actions. From this
column, you can change the error action for each insertion point.

The table displays all of the QC tests that can be entered directly into
the Worksheet Sample table.

Figure 3-4. Manual QC page of Sequence Editor

To set the action for manually inserted tests

1. Left-click on the error action box across from the QC Test solution
in the Error Actions list.

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2. Left-click again to reveal the drop-down box. Select from the

following actions:

• stop analysis

• flag and continue

• repeat, flag and continue

• re-calibrate and repeat

• re-calibrate and repeat with samples

• reslope and repeat

3. Click OK. The error action you select will then be displayed in the
table.

To generate a Sequence
Once you have setup the QC test intervals and error actions, you may
click the Generate Sequence button at the bottom right corner to
display the sequence of samples, calibration standards, and QCs. This
will close the Sequence Editor, so that you may view the Sample Table
on the Sequence screen.

Sequence Screen
The Sequence screen is part of the main Worksheet window and may be
used to view/edit the sample Sequence, or to manually enter sample
labels, rack:tube positions, weights, volumes, and sample types.

The Sequence screen consists of the Sample Table and the AutoSampler
Guide.

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Creating a Sequence

Figure 3-5. Sequence Screen

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Creating a Sequence

Note:

The Autosampler Guide will only be visible on the Sequence page if the
Show Autosampler Guide option is selected in the Preferences menu.
The default view displays the Autosampler racks and tube color key,
however the appearance of the page depends upon the way it was last
configured. The option can also be selected by right-clicking on the
Sequence Sample table and selecting or deselecting the Show
Autosampler Guide option from the popup menu.

Sample Table

The Sample Table consists of the following parameters:

W… An icon in this column is used to indicate any sample that has

been generated using the Sequence Editor. The properties of these
solutions cannot be changed directly from the Samples table. To make
changes to any of these solutions, you must use the Sequence Editor.

Tube. Displays the autosampler tube number for the sample. The first
number refers to the rack number of the sample, while the second
number relates to the position number within the rack. For example, a
tube number of 2:3 would indicate that the tube is in rack two of the
autosampler, at position three.

Sample Label. Lists the sample names. These labels are also
displayed in a non-editable column of the Analysis Sample table on the
Analysis Screen. Solutions that have been generated using the
Sequence Editor and appear in shaded cells are defined as
‘automatically generated’ samples. The Sample Label and Type for
these samples can be changed in the Sequence Editor, but their weight,
volume and dilution factors cannot be changed.

Sample Type. Select the type of sample by clicking on the cell to

reveal a drop-down list of predefined options. Note that for calibration

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Creating a Sequence

standards and QCS generated using the Sequence Editor, this option
cannot be changed.

Actual Weight. For tracking dilution during sample preparation,

enter the weight of the original sample, pre-digest. To edit the weight of
the solution, click on the cell and enter the appropriate value. Cells that
are shaded cannot be edited.

Actual Volume. For tracking dilution during sample preparation,

enter the final volume of the solution. To edit the volume of the
solution, click on the cell and enter the appropriate value. Cells that are
shaded cannot be edited.

Dilution Factor. The dilution factor of the solution is calculated after

values for actual weight and actual volume have been entered.

Sample Table Manipulation

Selecting Columns and Rows

To select a single row. Click on the fixed cell (shows sequence

number) to the left of the row. The entire row will be highlighted. Click
again to deselect a row.

To select multiple rows. Click on the fixed cell of each row of

interest.

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Creating a Sequence

Note:

Cells that cannot be directly edited from the Sample table appear to be
shaded. If the sample has been entered using the Sequence Editor, its
properties can only be changed in the Editor. Otherwise, no changes
can be made to shaded cells. Cells highlighted in white can be directly
edited from the Sample table simply by clicking in them and typing new
information or selecting an option from a drop-down menu.

Editing Cells

To edit a single cell in the Sequence table. Click on the cell of

interest. The sample label, actual weight, actual volume and dilution
factor can be directly edited by simply typing in a new value. To change
the sample type, click on the cell and select a new type from the drop
down menu that will appear.

Copying and Pasting Cell Contents

To copy the contents of a cell. Right click on the cell of interest and
select Copy from the drop-down menu. The contents will be copied to
the Windows clipboard.

To paste the contents of a cell. Right click on the cell of interest and
select Paste from the drop-down menu. The contents of the cell will be
overwritten with the contents of the Windows clipboard.

Inserting and Deleting Rows

To insert a row in the Sequence table. Right-click on any row in the

table (except those that contain automatically generated samples) and
select Insert Row from the drop-down menu. A single row will be
inserted into the table directly above the highlighted row.

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Creating a Sequence

Note:

Rows may not be inserted before any samples that have already been
analyzed.

To insert multiple rows in the Sequence table. Right-click on a row

and drag the cursor down to highlight two or more rows in the table
(except those that contain automatically generated samples). Select
Insert Row(s) from the drop-down menu. The number of rows you have
selected will be inserted into the table directly above the first
highlighted row.

Autosampler Guide
The Autosampler Guide at the bottom of the Sequence screen provides
you with a visual representation of the layout. Please note that it is
NOT active: any changes you wish to make to the configuration must be
done using the Autosampler/Dilutor Setup page (see p.3-4 to 3-6).

Key to Tube Colors. Displays the tube colors used in the graphical
representation of the sample solutions. This will only be displayed if
the Show Autosampler Guide option is selected under the Options
menu, or by selecting Show Autosampler Guide from the right-button
menu on the Sequence Table.

Sequence Parameters
The Sequence Parameters dialog is accessible by selecting the Sequence
Parameters icon from the main screen toolbar. You can also access the
dialog by selecting the item from the Window menu above the main
toolbar.

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Creating a Sequence

This dialog window is used to set the actions to occur during and after
the run, and the defaults for report generation and other sequence
analysis behaviors.

Figure 3-6. Sequence Parameters/Control

Control

At End of Sequence

If you wish to put the instrument into standby mode at the end of a
sequence, check the desired options described below:

Pump Slow. The pump rate will be set to slow.

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Creating a Sequence

Pump Off. The pump will be turned off.

Lamp Off. The lamp will be turned off. (This option is not available
for M-6000A operators.)

Gas Off. The gas will be turned off.

Analysis Behaviors

SmartRinse Enabled. SmartRinse will take effect when high

concentration samples are analyzed, to prevent carryover to the next
sample.

SmartRinse Threshold. Select the desired micro-Absorbance value

for SmartRinse to take effect. The default setting is 50,000 micro-Abs.

If no dilution tubes remaining, prompt for new tubes. The

analysis will pause and prompt you to add empty tubes.

If no dilution tubes remaining, continue undiluted. The analysis

will continue without performing more dilutions.

If no dilution tubes remaining, stop analysis. The analysis will

stop.

Hint:

Check the Continue undiluted option if you are running an analysis

overnight. Otherwise the system will be suspended until the prompt has
been cleared.

Instrumental Zeroing
Zero Before First Sample. The instrument will zero before running
the first sample.

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Creating a Sequence

Zero Periodically, Every # of Samples. The instrument will zero

after the selected number of samples has been run.

Zero Periodically, Before Each Calibration. The instrument will

zero before each calibration within a batch is run.

Reports
Report, None. Reports will not print automatically.

Report, After Run. The report will print after the batch run is
completed.

Export To Comma Delimited File. The report will be exported to a

Comma Delimited file (.csv).

Export To Text File. The report will be exported as a Text file (.txt).

Export To Printer. The report will be sent to the printer.

Filename. Enter a name for the file to be exported.

There are several fields below that allow you to specify which
information should be exported. See Chapter 5: Report Options (p. 5-5
to 5-6) for descriptions of these fields.

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Performing Analyses
 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Performing Analyses

Performing Analyses
Once you have developed a Method and created a Sequence, the next
step in the software is to run samples.

This chapter will describe the procedures you will use to operate the
mercury analyzer through the QuickTrace software, using the toolbar
and the displays on the Analysis screen.

Before Analyzing Samples

Before analyzing samples, make sure you have first accomplished these
steps:

1 Create a new Worksheet or a new Worksheet from a template.

2 Develop the Method using Method Editor.

3 Create a Sequence of solutions, including calibration, samples,

and QCs using Sequence Editor.

4 Examine the Sequence on the Sequence screen to verify that it

is correct.

5 Place test solutions into racks on the Autosampler tray.

6 Perform instrument start-up procedure. (See QuickTrace M-

7500 or M-6000A Operator’s Manual.)

7 Create/edit the Time Profile.

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Performing Analyses

Analysis Screen
The Analysis screen is accessed by clicking on the Analysis button from
the main toolbar. This screen is where analysis controls and displays
are located. This chapter will describe how to start and stop analyses,
and how to use the Analysis screen displays.

Figure 4-1. Analysis screen

Analysis Control Buttons

Analysis controls are located on right side of the main toolbar, and from
the Analyze menu above the toolbar.

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Performing Analyses

To auto-zero the instrument baseline

Click on Auto-Zero to zero the instrument baseline of the Mercury

Analyzer. Within limits, zeroing will compensate for baseline drift due
to microscopic dust buildup on the optics, dirty sample windows, and
ambient temperature changes.

The instrument should be adequately warmed up before zeroing. (See

the QuickTrace M-7500 or M-6000A Mercury Analyzer Operator’s
Manual for approximate warm-up times). It is also recommended to
auto-zero after any gas flow changes, change of oven temperature,
opening the front door, or removal of any portion of the instrument
case. Allow sufficient stabilization time following any such operation
before zeroing.

Zeroing will automatically be performed before taking a sample read in

Method Editor, and at the beginning of a sequence analysis. In
Sequence Parameters, the user may choose to Auto-Zero periodically
during an analysis.

To start the analysis

Click on GO to begin the automated analysis, which has been defined

on the Sequence screen in the currently selected worksheet.

To stop the analysis immediately

Click on STOP to immediately end an analysis that is currently
running. The autosampler probe will immediately return to the rinse
station. Stopping an analysis in progress will prevent data from being
saved for that sample.

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Performing Analyses

To stop the analysis after the current sample

Select the Stop/After Solution item from the Analyze menu.

Note:

If you stop during sample uptake, or before the rinse has been
completed, make sure you allow sufficient time in the rinse station
before re-starting the analysis.

To restart the analysis from current solution

If you have stopped the analysis, you can simply restart by clicking the
GO button. The analysis will begin at the next un-analyzed solution
within the Sequence.

To restart the analysis from the beginning

If you have already analyzed samples, you will need to generate the
Sequence again. Open the Sequence Editor, make any desired changes,
and click on Generate Sequence. Then click GO to start the analysis
over.

To read a single sample

Click on this icon to read a single sample or standard. A dialog window
will be brought up where you will enter the tube position, sample label,
sample type, and other information if desired. This feature is useful if
you only have a couple samples, or if you need to stop and run an
emergency sample during your batch analysis.

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Note:

Using the Read Sample feature may invalidate your QC setup. If you
have stopped during a batch analysis to read a single sample, it will be
inserted into the Sequence after the last analyzed sample.

To go into standby mode

Click on this icon to put the instrument immediately into Standby
mode. If you are running samples, you must first click Stop.
Depending what options you have selected from Sequence Parameters,
this may turn off or slow the pump, turn off the lamp, and/or the
carrier gas flow.

Note:

The instrument will automatically go into Standby mode at the end of a

run if you have indicated this behavior in the Sequence Parameters
window.

Analysis Screen displays

The Analysis screen shows you what is happening during the analysis,
allowing you to monitor the progress and results of the analysis. The
Analysis screen has four sections: the Sample Results Table, the Signal
Profile, the Calibration Chart, and the Worksheet Log.

To customize the Analysis screen display

The Analysis screen display may be customized. Each separation line

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Performing Analyses

between sections may be moved by clicking and dragging to make the

section larger or smaller. To make one section full screen, double-click
the left mouse button on the chart or table. Double-click again to
return to normal size.

Sample Results Table

The Sample Results Table consists of the following fields:

Tube. This field represents the Autosampler tube position.

Sample Label. This field shows the label of the sample as defined on
the Sequence screen.

Conc. This field shows the concentration determined for each sample.

µAbs. This field shows the average concentration in intensity units.

Flag. This field displays a flag if an error condition has occurred for
the sample.

% RSD. This field shows the % Relative Standard Deviation of

absorbances, using the number of replicates defined in Method Editor.

To view detailed sample results

Right-click on the Sample Results Table to popup a menu, and select
View Results to display a window showing detailed results for each
sample. This may be done while an analysis is in progress.

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Signal Profile Chart

The Signal Profile chart displays a µAbsorbance Signal in real time for
the current sample being analyzed. There are several buttons on this
chart that are described below:

Gridlines. Horizontal gridlines may be selected/deselected by

clicking this button.

Copy Chart. This button will copy the Baseline chart to the
clipboard in bitmap format.

Print Chart. This button will send the currently displayed

absorbance signal to the printer.

Zoom Out. This button demagnifies the chart. An area of the

chart can be magnified by selecting the desired area with the left mouse
button. To zoom, hold down the left mouse button and move the mouse
right and down to encompass the desired area. To unzoom, hold down
the left mouse button and move towards the upper left corner of the
chart, or click on the button.

Calibration Chart
The Calibration displays the most recent calibration for the active
Worksheet. As a calibration is performed, each Calibration Standard
data point is placed on the chart after analysis of that standard. The
chart can be used to visually examine and edit the calibration curve.

The same buttons available on the Signal Profile chart are also on the
upper left of the Calibration chart (see above for descriptions).

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Several labels in the lower right-hand corner of the Calibration chart

are described below:

Intercept. The Intercept is the value of the constant component of the

calibration curve.

Slope. When a Linear calibration is used, this is the slope of the

calibration curve. When a Quadratic calibration curve is used, this is
the linear component of calibration curve.

Curve. When a Quadratic calibration curve is used, this is the

quadratic component of the calibration curve.

Correlation. R2 from regression = correlation. A 0.997 is usually

considered the minimum acceptable correlation coefficient.

To edit the calibration

Right-click the mouse on the Calibration Chart, and select Inspect

Calibration Data . Here you can remove a single Calibration
standard by marking the standard to be excluded with an X. Select
Save to save the new Calibration information.

Worksheet Log
The Worksheet Log, located at the bottom left of the Analysis screen,
records each action in the Worksheet. These actions include saving a
Worksheet, analyzing a sample, and stopping an analysis.

From the right-click menu, you can select Export to save the log to
another location. To customize what is displayed, click Filter Log and
choose the desired option.

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5

Report Options
QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Report Options

Report Options
This chapter contains information on setting up the report printout and
the available reporting and exporting options.

Reports
Once data has been collected, it may be examined, printed and/or
exported using the Reports window. Click on the Reports button on the
main toolbar to display the Reports window. There are two pages:
Worksheet and Settings. From both pages, the following print/export
options are available:

Printer Setup. This button will display printer settings.

Print Preview. This will display a preview of the report. The

speed of the preview may depend on the Report Settings. If Calibration
and/or Signal graphs are selected, performance may be slower.

Print Report. This will send the report to the currently

selected printer.

Export to File. This will allow you to create a .txt or .csv file,
and save it to the location of your choice.

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Report Options

Worksheet Page
On this page, you will select the Worksheet file for which you wish to
create a report, a print preview, or to export data. This page is set up
so that Worksheet files can be easily accessed from any location in the
Windows file system.

Figure 5-1. Worksheet page of Reports

To generate a report/preview for a Worksheet

Select the desired Worksheet file using Windows Explorer. The
Worksheet file should appear in the Name field. Then click Print or
Print Preview.

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Report Options

Settings page
The Settings page allows you to customize the report printout by
selecting solution information, report contents, and default number
format.

Note:

If you set the default report options you wish to use in Preferences
before you create a new Worksheet those settings will appear on the
Report Settings page.

Figure 5-2. Settings page of Reports.

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 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Report Options

The following report settings are available:

Solution Information

Mean Absorbance. Displays the mean absorbance for each sample.

Concentration. Displays the calculated concentration for each sample

in the units selected for the Worksheet.

% RSD. Displays the % RSD based on the replicates for the selected
Integration read time of the sample peak.

Replicates. Displays each replicate for the sample peak. If 5

replicates were selected in Method Editor, 5 replicates will be displayed
for each sample peak.

Sample Weights. Displays the Actual Weight for each sample.

Sample Volumes. Displays the Final Volume for each sample.

Online Dilution. Displays the Dilution factor used for the Worksheet
if an Auto-Dilutor is present.

Dilution Factor. Displays the Dilution factor calculated for each

sample using the Actual Weights and Final Volumes.

Signal Graphs. Displays the Signal Profile for each sample.

Contents

Time/Date. Displays the time and date for each sample.

Method Parameters. Displays the Method parameters for the

selected Worksheet.

Worksheet Notes. Displays the Worksheet notes.

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Report Options

Dilution Corrected. Displays dilution-correction results for the

samples.

QC Solutions. Displays QC Solution information for the Worksheet.

Flags. Displays error flags for samples in the Worksheet.

Calibration Data. Three options are available: None, Data, or Data

and Graphs. If None is selected, no Calibration data will appear on the
report. If Data is selected, only Calibration Data will appear. When
Data and Graphs is selected, they will be displayed on the report.

Default Number Format

Decimal places. Select number of decimal places you wish to report.

Significant figures. Select the number of significant figures you wish

to report.

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6

Instrument Tools
QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Instrument Tools

Instrument Tools
This chapter will describe how to use hardware controls and displays,
track maintenance for consumables, and maintain an instrument log.

There are four pages in Instrument Tools: Autosampler/Autodilutor

Controls, Analyzer Controls, Maintenance, and Instrument Log.

Baseline Chart
The baseline chart is displayed at the bottom of the Autosampler and
the Analyzer hardware control pages. It mimics a strip chart recorder,
allowing you to visually examine the real-time absorbance signal.

Baseline Chart Options

Gridlines. Horizontal gridlines may be selected/deselected.

Copy Chart. Copies the chart to the clipboard in bitmap format.

Print Chart. Sends the chart to the printer.

Zoom Out. Demagnifies the chart. An area of the chart can be

magnified by selecting the desired area with the left mouse button. To
zoom, hold down the left mouse button and move the mouse right and
down to encompass the desired area. To unzoom, hold down the left
mouse button and move towards the upper left corner of the chart, or
click on the button.

Read. Starts/stops the baseline read.

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Instrument Tools

Autosampler/Autodilutor Controls
Move Sipper. This section contains controls that move the
autosampler sipper probe.

Park. Sends the sipper probe back into the rinse station, and will turn
on the rinse pump.

Move To. To move the sipper probe to a certain tube position, first
select the tube position by clicking on the … button, then click Move
To.

Up/Down. Click on Down to move the sipper probe down into the
tube, and Up to move the probe up. The box to the right designates
how far to move the probe down. A higher number will move the probe
further down.

Pump On/Off. Controls the rinse pump (at the back of the
autosampler), which cycles rinse solution in and out of the rinse station.

Racks 1-4. To change the rack size, click on the arrow and select the
appropriate size from the drop-down box. (The standard rack size is 60
x 14 mL.)

Autodilutor

Prime. Moves the dilutor probe to its rinse tube (position S:10, the last
position in the standards rack), and then fills and empties the pump
twice.

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Instrument Tools

The autodilutor syringe pump should not be run dry, or it may damage
CAUTION
the syringe pump. Be sure that the diluent bottle is in place, and that
the diluent tubing is down into the diluent solution.

Empty. Moves the dilutor probe to its rinse tube and empties the
syringe pump.

Initialize. Initializes the autodilutor to establish communication in

case the autodilutor power was not on when the software was started.

Move Sipper Up/Down. Moves the autodilutor sipper probe up or

down. The box to the right designates how far to move the probe down.
A higher number will move the probe further down.

Analyzer Controls

Zero Instrument. Zeroes the system baseline.

Lamp Status. Updates the lamp current.

Lamp On/Off. Controls power to the mercury lamp.

Pump On/Off. Controls power to the main system pump.

Set Speed. Select the desired % Pump speed, and click Set Speed.
This setting will only be valid from this page. To use this setting in
your method, you must set the Pump speed in Method Editor.

Set Gas. Select the desired gas flow rate (0 – 350 mL/min), and click
Set Gas. This setting will only be valid from this page. To use this
setting in your method, you must set the Pump speed in Method Editor.

Calibrate Gas Flow. The gas flow should be calibrated during

installation of the Mercury Analyzer. Recalibration needs to be done if

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Instrument Tools

you switch between Ar and N2, or if you re-install the software onto
your PC.

You will need a gas flow meter calibrated for the gas being used, in the
range of 0 – 400 mL/min. Connect the gas flow meter to the Carrier gas
supply port on the front of the analyzer (below the gas-liquid
separator). Make sure that gas pressure is set to 100 Psi. Click
Calibrate Gas Flow, and input values as prompted by the software.

Maintenance Tracking
This page is used to track the installation dates of consumables, and to
prompt you when to replace them.

Serial Numbers
Serial numbers for your Mercury Analyzer and Autosampler will be
displayed here if they were entered during the software installation.
(Otherwise, you can also locate the serial numbers on the back of your
instruments.) You may be asked for the serial numbers if you call
CETAC for service and/or technical support.

Wear Statistics
The wear statistics track the amount of time that consumables are in
use. The software will prompt you to replace consumables at
appropriate intervals. For the main consumable items (Mercury Lamp,
Nafion Dryer, and Pump Tubes), the display shows installation date,
hours in use, and when to replace. When a new item is installed, click
the Reset button to set the new installation date.

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Note:

The M-6000A cannot track lamp usage, as does the QuickTrace M-

7500 Mercury Analyzer.

Instrument Log
This page is used to log any information that you may want to track,
such as when the cell windows or the gas-liquid separator are cleaned.
You may also want to log any problems that occur, and what was done
to remedy the problem. This can be very helpful, especially if there are
multiple users of the Mercury Analyzer.

Note:

Individual entries are limited to 255 characters in length.

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7

Security Options
QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Security & Data Integrity

Security Options

This chapter describes how to install and use the security features.

Security
There are several levels of security available from the software to suit
many needs.

Default Security

The simplest security setup is to never install the security features

altogether. In this case, there is no attempt by the QuickTrace
software to enforce security. Basic protection of the application and its
data can still be implemented by applying Windows security to
directories and/or files used by QuickTrace.

Security Basics under Windows NT/2000/XP

Security under Windows is a topic too vast to be described in depth

here. Each individual should have a unique login ID and secure
password on the computer, which will be referred to as an account.
There should be only a single account with administrator privilege, and
all other accounts should be assigned access levels appropriate to their
needs.

To simplify administration, groups can be created. Each group will

have certain access rights; and each member assigned to a group will
gain the access rights assigned to the group. This can simplify
administration when many accounts are being administered.

The Users and Passwords administration window (Figure 7-1) from the
Control Panel allows individual accounts and groups to be
administered. (Under Windows NT 4.0 this functionality is accessed
through the Start|Administrative Tools|User Manager application.)

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Security & Data Integrity

Figure 7-1. User account administration window.

Installing QuickTrace Security Features

Only someone with Windows administrator privilege can install the

QuickTrace security features. The security features installation applet
(Figure 7-2) will be installed by the QuickTrace installation package,
and can be accessed through the start menu. Once this applet is run
and the security features are installed, they cannot be automatically
removed.

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Security & Data Integrity

Figure 7-2. Security features installation applet.

What Installing Security Features Does.

When the security features application runs it does the following:

1) It creates 4 Windows Groups:

CETAC Operator Level 1
CETAC Operator Level 2
CETAC Supervisor
CETAC Service

Members of these groups have access rights the same as

members of the built-in Windows NT “Users” group.

2) It applies access restrictions to the registry entries installed and

used by the QuickTrace software.

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What Installing Security Features Does Not Do.

Access restrictions are not applied to any files or directories. It is left to

the administrator to define a security policy that protects worksheets
from accidental or malicious tampering/deletion.

User Accounts

Once security features are installed, user accounts which do not have
administrator privilege and are not members of one of the four groups
(see p.7-4) will not be able to run the QuickTrace software.

The software will grant access to its features based on group

membership:

Administrators: Any account with Windows NT administrator

privilege has unrestricted access to all features in the QuickTrace
software, including the ability to add new accounts and change access
levels of existing users. Note: This level of access is given to any
account with membership to Windows built-in Administrators group.

CETAC Service: These users have blanket access to the software and
all its features but cannot add user accounts or change access levels of
existing accounts.

CETAC Supervisor: These users can access any feature listed in this
software manual, except adding user accounts or changing the access
level of existing accounts.

CETAC Operator Level 2: These users can run samples and batches,
develop worksheets, and change most configuration options. They
cannot change QC limits or behavior. Operators with this level of
access cannot change a small number of policy type settings.

CETAC Operator Level 1: These users can run samples and batches
in existing worksheets. They can only create new worksheets from
templates. A very small number of additional operating settings can be
changed by users with this access level.

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User Account Maintenance within QuickTrace

Since all access is controlled through Windows groups membership,

user accounts can be maintained using the Users and Passwords
administration applet that is part of Windows 2000/XP, or the User
Manager applet under NT 4.0.

Alternatively, administrators may choose to use the administration tool

built into QuickTrace. This tool can be accessed from the
Options|Administration… menu item (see Figure 7-3).

Figure 7-3. User Accounts window.

In the left column, all accounts local to this machine are shown. In the
right column, the access level of each account is shown.

User accounts are created by clicking the Add button. Access levels are
modified by selecting the desired account and clicking Edit. In both
cases, the dialog in Figure 7-4 is displayed. User accounts that are
created using this tool are automatically given membership to the
group corresponding to their level of access to the QuickTrace features
(see page 7-4).

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Figure 7-4. User Setup window.

Users are given group membership corresponding to the access level

specified on the user setup dialog, or in the case where No Access is
specified, membership to any groups with access is revoked.

Important Note:

Windows accounts with administrator privilege cannot be created,

edited or deleted using QuickTrace and are shown for completeness
only.

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8

Troubleshooting
 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting
This chapter describes how to troubleshoot communication and
configuration problems between the software and the instruments. For
a complete list of hardware and performance issues, see the QuickTrace
M-7500 or the M-6000A Mercury Analyzer Operator’s Manual.

Verify All Connections

Software problems and errors may occur because there has been a loss
of communication between the software and the instruments. If a
software problem occurs, or an error message is displayed, check each
of the following connections:

ƒ Power to the Mercury Analyzer

ƒ Power to the Autosampler

ƒ COM connection from the computer to the Mercury Analyzer

ƒ COM connection from the computer to the Autosampler

ƒ The Auxiliary cable from the QuickTrace M-7500 should be

connected to the Auxiliary port on the Autosampler, and the
peristaltic pump cable should be connected from the
QuickTrace M-7500 to the pump. (For the M-6000A, check that
the Auxiliary cable from the analyzer is connected to the
Auxiliary port on Autosampler and the 9-pin d-socket on the
pump.)

If a problem is found with power or communication cables, re-establish

the connection, and then restart the QuickTrace software. If there are
still issues, the next step is to verify software configuration of the COM
ports.

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Troubleshooting

Verify Software Configuration of COM ports

Should the software not find the Mercury Analyzer and the
Autosampler on the correct ports, it may be necessary for you to test
them using the QuickTrace Hg software and the Hyperterminal.exe
program provided with Windows. The standard configuration for the
system is to connect the Autosampler to COM1 and the Mercury
Analyzer to COM2.

To check or change the configuration

1 Open the Specify Installed Hardware application, in the Start menu.

2 Verify that the Autosampler and the Mercury Analyzer are

configured/connected to the correct COM ports. Recommended
defaults are COM2 for the analyzer and COM1 for the autosampler.
If the configuration differs from the standard, try setting the Mercury
Analyzer to COM2 and the Autosampler to COM1.

Using HyperTerminal to verify

communication
The Windows’ HyperTerminal program can be used to manually verify
the communication through each serial port. HyperTerminal (if
installed) can be found in the Start menu. Select the Programs folder,
then the Accessories sub-folder item, and finally the Communications
folder.

Note:

This manual assumes the operator of the Mercury Analyzer has a

working knowledge of using standard Windows applications. For more
information on how to use Windows, see your computer’s
documentation.

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To verify communication using HyperTerminal

1 Click on Hypertrm.exe. (It may be designated HyperTerminal.)

2 If this is the first time that HyperTerminal has been run on this
computer, you may be asked to enter an area code and other dialing
information. This information will not be used for our procedure, so
enter any number you desire. Furthermore you may be prompted to
install a modem – this is not necessary and can be ignored.
3 A dialog box titled "Connection Description" will appear. Enter a
name significant to you, such as "QuickTrace".
4 A dialog titled “Connect To” (or "Phone number") will appear. The
only important field is the "connect using" field. Select Direct to
com1 or COM1.
5 A COM port properties dialog box will appear. Be sure the settings
are as follows: 9600-8-N-1 (9600 baud, 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop
bit) with no flow control. (See Figure 8-1 below.)

Figure 8-1.

6 Under the file menu, select Properties.

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Troubleshooting

7 A properties dialog box will appear.

8 Click on the setting tab. Click on the ASCII Setup… button. A
dialog box will appear (Figure 8-1). Make sure only the following
settings are checked:
“Echo typed characters locally”
“Append line feeds to incoming line ends”

Figure 8-2.

9 Click OK to confirm these settings.

10 Go to file menu and select Save.

If you have changed the COM port properties, you may have to sever
your connection and reconnect to have the new settings take effect.
This can be done using two buttons on the toolbar – the one with the
phone off the hook disconnects, the one with the phone on the hook
reconnects.

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Troubleshooting

The ASX-510 and the QuickTrace M-7500 (or M-6000A) will respond to
the command VER (capitalization is important).

The Mercury Analyzer will respond ‘CETAC Technologies. Mercury

Analyzer - ...’. The Autosampler will respond ‘CETAC Technologies
ASROM...’. If the responses are not received as expected, or on the
expected COM ports, then this will indicate a hardware or Windows
configuration problem.

Printing and Windows

Windows offers many advanced printing features, not the least of which
is the ability to print documents on many different types of printers and
have these documents appear very nearly the same. However, the price
of these features is a complex system that sometimes needs a little user
intervention.

From start to finish, here is a brief outline of the steps a document

must go through to be printed, as well as some reasons that the
document may not print as expected:

1 The user clicks print in the current application.

Some of the more subtle “problems” in printing can occur at this point.
When you click Print from the file menu, you will print to the default
printer specified by the Print Manager. If this is not the intended
printer, this can cause a significant problem. Be sure to check which
printer you are sending the document to before continuing.

2 The application sends information to Windows, “drawing” the

printout.
If the document does not make it through this step, it is possibly a
problem with the application that printed it. A good way to tell if the
application completed this step is to attempt to print to a local printer

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Troubleshooting

using the application in question. If you receive a printout (however

garbled), or the print manager is running, then you know that the
application sent information to the Print Manager and the problem is
not in the software trying to print but with Windows’ configuration.

3 This information is given to the Print Manager in the form of a

temporary file.
Even if the application printing the document provides the right
information to Windows, Windows may not be able to provide this
information to the print manager. This may be due to inadequate disk
space for temporary files.
Check your AUTOEXEC.BAT file for a line like SET TEMP=C:\TEMP.
If there is no line like SET TEMP=<directory>, now is a good time to
add one. Be sure that the directory specified exists, and has plenty of
free space (6-7 MB is not uncommon for large word processor
documents).

4 The Print Manager checks to see if the selected printer is on-

line and ready to go.
The Print Manager has a limited ability to check to see if the print will
succeed, and can abort if necessary. However, if you are printing to a
network printer, the Print Manager may not have this ability.

5 If the printer appears to be on-line, it begins printing (sending

chunks of data at a time as fast as the printer can accept them)
through the communications link between the printer and the
computer.
For the printer to receive and print the document, it must be on,
connected to the computer or the network properly, and have
paper/ribbon/toner. If you receive a good printout from Microsoft Write,
but a garbled printout from the QuickTrace software, this may be due
to a problem with the printer driver you are using.
Windows uses a device independent interface to allow the same
document to be printed on many different printers without differences
in how an application prints to Windows. If the printer driver you are
using is not providing the proper functionality, contact the

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Troubleshooting

manufacturer for a printer driver update. This will improve the

printing of all your applications.

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Troubleshooting

6 When the printer has been sent all the document information,
the Print Manager then deletes the temporary files and closes
itself.
At this point, the Print Manager closes, and hopefully the document
has printed. However, this is only the end of Window’s part of the
printing process. If you are using a network, there may be many more
places where a print can be lost even after the Print Manager has sent
it properly. If you are in doubt as to whether your computer is printing
correctly, connect a printer to the local port. If you receive a printout
from this local printer, and not from network printers, then the
problem is probably a network/PC configuration.

Hopefully, this information will help fix and avoid problems that occur
while printing.

When All Else Fails

If you are having problems with the QuickTrace software, when all else
fails, close the software, exit windows, and turn off both the
Autosampler and the Mercury Analyzer. Wait a few seconds, turn both
back on, and restart the software.

If this does not work, call CETAC Technical Support at the number
listed in the Preface of this manual.

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Glossary
QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Glossary

Glossary
This book frequently uses the following terms:
Active When more than one worksheet is open, the
worksheet worksheet for which the bottom tab is topmost.
Abs Absorbance = (-log10 T or 2-LOG10 %T). Intensity
unit.
Algorithm Mathematical function used to convert a sample’s
measured absorbance into a concentration.
ADX-500 Online Auto Dilution accessory (optional)
ASX-510 ASX- 510 Auto Sampler.
Auto-zero The process of electronically setting the instrument
baseline to zero.
Baseline The process of correcting intensity for intensity due
correction to background. In this software, baseline
correction is performed by subtracting the intensity
measured with no sample in the sample cell from
the intensity measured with sample passing
through the sample cell.
Blank A solution that contains no Hg, used as a “zero”
point in the calibration.
Calibration The equation showing intensity (absorbance) vs.
curve concentration. The calibration curve is used to
determine the concentration of Hg in a sample.
CLP Contract Laboratory Protocol (analysis protocol of
U.S. EPA).
Cold Vapor Direct Atomic Absorption Spectrometric analysis
Direct AAS or (at 254 nm) of “head-space” gas from a stannous
CVAAS chloride or stannous sulfate reactor using neither
flame, nor plasma, nor furnace nor any other
electro-thermal atomizer.

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 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Glossary

Concentration The ratio of mass or volume of mercury to the mass

(Conc.) or volume of the solution. Concentration of an
unknown is determined from the calibration curve.
Correlation Indicates the quality of the fit between the
coefficient calibration curve and the points it is fitting. A
value of 1.000 indicates a perfect fit.
Default settings Most sections of the software contain standard
settings that are used most often. New worksheets
are created using default settings.
Detection Limit Smallest statistically detectable concentration,
(DL) where the intensity equals 3 times the standard
deviation of the background intensity.
EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Error actions The action to take when an error condition occurs
during a sample or standard reading.
Flag A letter used to indicate that a certain error
condition has occurred; the flag may be displayed
on the Analysis sample results table and/or the
Report print-out.
GCU Gas Control Unit, sets and regulates carrier gas
flow rate.
GLS Gas-Liquid Separator.
Hg Mercury, chemical symbol.
IDL Instrument Detection Limit. DL in ultra-clean,
high purity acid media (e.g. 7% HCl, “Ultrex II”
grade). IDL is generally measured under
“favorable” operating conditions and does not
involve sample digestion or preparation steps. IDL
indicates what the instrument is capable of doing,
if not subjected to contamination, digestion loss,
storage loss, or other sample collection/preparation
errors or limitations.

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Glossary

Instrument Operating parameters which have been optimized

sensitivity range for a range of concentrations; optimized parameters
can be found in Tables 2-1a and 2-1b, Chapter 2.
L Liter, unit of volume.
M-6000A The entire Mercury Analyzer system including the
M-6000 analyzer, ASX-500, Peristaltic Pump, etc.
M-7500 The QuickTrace M-7500 Mercury Analyzer system
MDL Method Detection Limit; DL measured under
actual reagent purity, sample preparation, and
storage conditions for samples, reagents, and
containers in question. Calibration standards are
generally prepared in the sample media (standard
addition) and are carried through all sample
digestion/ preparation, storage, transfer, etc. steps,
as are blanks. In the presence of significant
contamination, small concentration delectability
gets worse and the actual MDL should be redefined
as 1/3 the contamination, but not less than the
statistical MDL!
Method Set of operating parameters defined in Method
Editor.
mL Milliliter (cubic centimeter, cc, 10-3 L), unit of
volume.
ng Nanogram (10-9 gram), mass or weight unit.
Optimized Having determined the best conditions and settings
for an analysis.
PC Personal Computer.
pg Picograms (10-12 g), mass or weight unit.
ppb Parts per billion (ng/mL, 10-9 g/mL, µg/L, 10-6 g/L),
concentration unit.
ppt Parts per trillion (pg/mL, 10-12 g/mL, ng/L, 10-9 g/L),
concentration unit.

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 QuickTrace Mercury Analyzer Software Manual
Glossary

Psi Pounds per square inch. Pressure. 1 psi ≈ 0.068

bar. 1 bar = 100 kPa.
psig Pounds per square inch gauge. Gauge reading
(above atmosphere reading).
Pump or PP Peristaltic Pump.
RSD Relative Standard Deviation. A measure of data
precision or reproducibility.
Sequence A set of samples, standards, and QCs to be
measured in the order as displayed on the
Sequence Table.
Standard A solution with accurately known concentration (of
Hg).
T Transmittance (P/P0), often %T or percent
transmittance (P/P0 x 100%).
Time Profile The areas of the signal profile to be measured,
including the baseline correction points and the
replicate readings. The Time Profile is defined by
the operator in Method Editor.
Worksheet A file that consists of a method, a sequence, and the
analysis data.
Worksheet A worksheet used to create new worksheets;
template several templates are included with the software
with an optimized set of operating conditions and
settings.
µAbs Micro-absorbance units. (10-6 Abs).

G-5