To optimize the performance of the device, consider the following general guidelines:

  • Monitor the usage of specific device components that are subject to wear and stress and schedule appropriate maintenance intervals (see Predictive Performance).

  • Consider the influences of the parameters on the detection. See Overview of Optimization Parameters.

  • Ensure that the operating conditions are suitable. This includes:

    • Stable environmental conditions, such as a stable temperature

    • No air drafts

    • No vibrations or mechanical shocks caused by external sources

    • Stable backpressure and correct waste line setup

  • Degas the solvent in the Vanquish pump.

  • For guidelines and recommendations on the use of mobile phases with the charged aerosol detector, see Mobile Phase Guidelines for the Detector.

  • Maintain the nitrogen or air source for your detector at regular intervals to ensure optimum performance. Observe the instructions in the User Documentation for the nitrogen generator.

  • Use a dedicated column for each specific analysis to avoid cross-contamination of the column.

  • Do not use a column that has been used with non-volatile mobile phases.

  • Columns that are unstable and/or have a tendency to release particles from the column bed (i.e. "column bleed") will produce noise in the detector. Avoid such columns.

  • When the mobile phase was stored over a period of time, high background current may be observed. Replace old mobile phase with freshly prepared mobile phase.

  • If you use the detector for the analysis of complex biological samples, proper sample preparation is especially important.

  • If you perform a gradient, it is recommended to perform blank injections with the desired method gradient profile prior to analysis. This "pre-conditioning" of the column improves the performance of both, the analytical column and the detector.