"Energy level too low" error on UPC2 PDA detector - WKB30359

SYMPTOMS

• UPC2 PDA fails with error message " Energy level too low"
• Error is not cleared by power cycling the PDA
• Error is not cleared by flushing flow cell with solvent
• Lamp hours are normal

ENVIRONMENT

• MassLynx
• ACQUITY UPC² System
• ACQUITY UPC² PDA Detector
• ACQUITY UPC² Convergence Manager

CAUSE

The configured detectors within inlet configuration are in the wrong order.

FIX or WORKAROUND

The correct order of detectors in the MassLynx Inlet Configuration Wizard is as follows:

1. Waters ACQUITY CM
2. ACQUITY Convergence Manager
3. Waters ACQUITY PDA

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

This detector order dependency is due to the sequence in which MassLynx sets up and monitors the instruments before setting up the next module. If the PDA is configured AFTER the column manager but BEFORE the convergence manager, the PDA setup (exposure calculation/energy check) will occur just after the flow has been started, while the system is still pressurizing.  During this time, the PDA will experience "frothing" and initiate the low lamp energy failure.