The LI-5800A Total Alkalinity Titrator was carefully checked during manufacturing and assembly. If you observe that the analyzer is not functioning properly, check for the following common problems.
Communication problems
- Are the cables connected properly?
- Check the serial adapter cable. Tighten the screws that hold it to the control unit connector. Be sure the temperature cable connectors are tight.
- Incompatible cable or adapter?
- Be sure to use the cables provided with your device. Other brands may provide inconsistent performance.
- Correct COM port settings?
- To find the serial port number, open the Device Manager (press the Windows key
, type Device Manager, then press Enter). Click Ports (COM & LPT). Look for USB Serial Port (COM#). The serial port numbers are shown beside the ports. - Computer needs a fresh restart?
- An occasional reboot can resolve a variety of mysterious PC issues. A fresh start every morning helps keep them from ever appearing.
Leaks or solution problems
Water leaks can come from the water bath or other tubing. A leak in tubing or syringes is indicated by air being drawn into a syringe.
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Syringe not sealed to the rotary valve?
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If the syringes are not tightly connected to the rotary valves, water may leak or air may be drawn into the syringe. Tighten the knurled nut between the valve and syringe. Inspect the tubes and connections; replace damaged components.
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Appearance of air bubbles?
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Check that the reagent/acid tubing is immersed into the solution and that no air bubbles are trapped inside the tubing. Be sure the syringes are tightly attached to the rotary valves, and that no air is drawn into a faulty tube or connection.
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Solution is separating?
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Ensure that the sample solution is homogeneous. Stir the solution if obvious separation is visible.
Power supply problems
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Suitable power supply?
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All components require a 100 to 240 VAC power supply (50 or 60 Hz). If a component is not functioning properly, check the power supply and adapter cables.
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Open circuit breaker or GFCI outlet?
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Check circuit breakers and GFCI outlets to be sure they closed. If a circuit breaker or GFCI outlet is being tripped repeatedly, there is another problem.
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Power cords connected?
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Check the power supply cords to ensure they are connected properly.
pH meter problems
The pH meter can be used and tested separately from the LI-5800A system. You may check its performance manually according to the pH meter manual.
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Implausible readings?
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If your pH reading is ~ 0 or 9999 mV, there may be a grounding issue.
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pH meter communication parameters changed or reset?
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If you have replaced the pH meter, provided your own, or altered the communication settings, reconfigure the pH meter as described in Bench-top A211 pH meter setup.
