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January, 2017

Volume IV, Edition 1

The data is in! The most searched term for Environmental and Process Monitoring on Thermofisher.com in 2016 was our Thermo Scientific Model 48i CO Analyzer. Learn this tip in 5 minutes or less for the Model 48i:

Mirror peaking for the Model 48i CO Analyzer

The AGC Intensity screen (read only) from the diagnostics menu displays the intensity (in Hertz) of the reference channel Automatic Gain Control (AGC) circuit. The AGC circuit optimizes the noise and resolution levels of the Model 48i. The AGC intensity reading is normally around 200,000Hz. Best results are obtained when the optics are clean and peaked prior to calibration. The mirrors should be checked any time the AGC intensity is below 200,000 Hz, since one cause of low output is light attenuation due to dirt on the mirrors or misalignment. 

View the   Model 48i CO Analyzer Mirror Peaking Technical Bulletin for a step by step procedure for peaking/optimizing the mirrors in a Model 48i CO analyzer. 

The symptom of mirrors that are not in peak position could be:

  • Low intensity alarm
  • Low intensity alarm that only comes in while calibrating with span gas
  • Detector gain set very high >200
  • Noisy output

The reasons you may need to peak the mirrors are:

  • If the mirrors were removed for inspection
  • Cleaning and reinstallation of the mirrors. Please note: Cleaning of the mirrors should only be performed by a qualified service person as they can be damaged.
  • Cleaning of the optical bench
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