Introducing the DSC AutosamplerIntroducing the DSC Autosampler
The DSC Autosampler, also known as the Auto DSC, is standard on the TA Instruments' DSC Q2000/Q1000 and an optional accessory to the DSC Q200/Q100.
The Autosampler is a four-axis robotic device that automatically loads sample and reference pans to and from the Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC) measurement cell. Once the Autosampler loads the pans and the cell covers are in place, the controller takes over and runs preprogrammed thermal analysis experiments on your samples. After the instrument uncovers the cell, the Autosampler then unloads the pans. You can set up a series of experiments and leave them to be executed unattended.
NOTE: The Autosampler is compatible with the FACS, RCS, and LNCS cooling accessories. The Autosampler cannot be used with the Quench Cooler.
Select from the following topics for more information:
The following features make the DSC Autosampler a unique and flexible tool:
The Autosampler makes decisions based on current system status, operator-directed parameters, and computer-directed instructions.
The mechanical fingers that grip the sample pans enable the Autosampler to handle objects more reliably than vacuum-grip systems. Open pans can be handled as safely as closed pans with the Autosampler’s tactile-feedback gripper fingers. The tactile-feedback programming also detects improperly gripped or dropped objects and prevents the grippers from puncturing the floor of the DSC cell.
The Autosampler can be operate from the touch screen or controller. The touch screen is needed for calibration, etc. The controller software is used when running a continuous unattended series of experiments.
The Autosampler can change both reference and sample pans.
Preprogrammed series of runs, called AS run sequences, can be created easily through the Instrument Control software. Once you have created an AS run sequence, you can edit it and save it on disk. You can even change parts of an AS run sequence as it is being run.
Up to 65 DSC runs can be preprogrammed on the controller.
The Autosampler’s accuracy of pan placement (+ 0.008 inches) is more reliable and repeatable than human operation.
The sample/reference pan storage tray has room for 50 sample pans and 5 reference pans and can be removed from the Autosampler for easy loading. The order of samples used for each experiment is completely up to you and need not follow the order of pans in the Autosampler tray.
The Autosampler operates with crimped, hermetic, and open pans to support a wide variety of thermal analysis experiments. The pans compatible with the Autosampler include aluminum and gold crimped and hermetic, copper, and high volume stainless steel.
The Autosampler can be used with the full range of thermal analysis temperature profiles currently used in manual experiments (depending upon the cooling accessory installed).
The AS run sequence ensures that the DSC cell is within a specified load temperature range (0 to 400°C) at the beginning of each run by using compressed ambient air to rapidly cool or warm the DSC cell as needed. This is programmed through the instrument control program.
The Instrument log keeps a record of all controller and Autosampler activities so that you can review operations even after they are performed.
The Autosampler runs a series of diagnostics tests at power-up and continuously during operation to ensure that all mechanical and electrical components are operating properly.
The DSC Q200/Q100 and Q2000/Q1000 both have an automated lid assembly as a standard feature,which is required for Autosampler operation.
Follow these basic steps to use the Autosampler:
Prepare the Samples and Sample Pans
Starting a Run and/or Sequence
