Scanning a Sample: Obtaining the Spectrum

Position the assembled sample holder in the nearest light beam path.

The sample holder is positioned with the threaded rod pointing to the left (the sample holder simply won't go in the other way). Push down firmly and the sample holder will slide into place. When in its proper position, the sample holder's large holes should be lined up with the large holes of the spectrophotometer (i.e. the light can pass through the sample cell windows)

Insert a pen in the pen holder

"Disengage" the scanning mechanism.

Manual Mode: Do this by pulling the wavelength adjustment control (photo at right) towards towards you. In this position, the chart paper and scan starting point can be moved independently of one another

Turn the wavelength adjustment control until 400 is reached on the wavelength display.

Position the recording pen at the beginning of the chart paper.

Use the large silver chart paper advance knob to move the chart paper to the correct location. If necessary, gently lift the pen from the paper to avoid extraneous marks on the chart paper as you perform this adjustment.

"Engage" the scanning mechanism.

Do this by pushing the wavelength adjustment control away from you. It may be necessary to move it back and forth slightly before it drops into place.

Start the scan by pressing "scan"

The Scan button should light and you should hear the scan motors turn as the chart paper moves. Midway through the scan, the chart will stop moving for a few seconds as the instrument prepares to perform the second half of the scan. Don't be concerned, the scan will resume automatically

Press the button marked "idle" to stop the scan when the end of the chart paper has been reached.

Advance the chart paper and tear it off using the tear bar. Don't forget to label the chart paper with your name, date, and identity of the substance tested.