Dionex Ultimate 3000 Column Compartment Manual

The Dionex Ultimate 3000 Column Compartment is a precision temperature-controlled module designed for HPLC and UHPLC applications, featuring advanced thermal management, multiple column mounting options, low dispersion flow paths, and compatibility with various column dimensions. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting to System 7. Operation Procedures 8. Maintenance Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Temperature control unit, column mounting assembly, thermal sensor, flow path connections, status indicators, and control interface.

Feature	Description
Temperature Range	5°C to 110°C with ±0.1°C stability
Column Compatibility	Supports 1.0 mm to 4.6 mm ID columns
Thermal Control	Peltier-based heating and cooling
Flow Path	Low dispersion, biocompatible flow path
Pressure Rating	Up to 1000 bar operating pressure
Interface	LCD display and keypad for local control
Communication	RS-232 and Ethernet connectivity
Safety Features	Over-temperature protection, leak detection
Mounting Options	Multiple column positions with secure holders
Power Requirements	100-240V AC, 50/60Hz

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, level surface near HPLC system.

Position compartment: Ensure adequate ventilation and access to connections.
Connect to HPLC system: Use appropriate tubing and fittings for mobile phase flow path.
Power connection: Plug into grounded electrical outlet.
Communication setup: Connect RS-232 or Ethernet cable to control system.
Column installation: Mount columns in designated holders with proper orientation.

WARNING! Ensure proper grounding and electrical safety. Handle columns with care to avoid damage.

First-Time Setup

Power on compartment; initialize system through control interface.

System initialization: Allow compartment to reach ambient temperature.
Temperature calibration: Verify temperature accuracy using external thermometer.
Column installation: Secure column with proper fittings and check for leaks.
Communication setup: Configure network or serial communication with control software.
Method setup: Program temperature methods and parameters in control software.

CAUTION! Verify all connections before applying pressure. Check for leaks at low pressure first.

Specifications

Temperature Range: 5°C to 110°C
Temperature Stability: ±0.1°C
Heating/Cooling Rate: Up to 5°C/min heating, 3°C/min cooling
Column Capacity: Up to two analytical columns or one preparative column
Pressure Rating: 1000 bar maximum operating pressure
Dimensions: 300 x 250 x 200 mm (W x D x H)
Weight: 8.5 kg
Power Requirements: 100-240V AC, 50/60Hz, 200W max
Communication: RS-232, Ethernet 10/100
Operating Environment: 15°C to 35°C, 20-80% relative humidity

Controls and Settings

Access control via front panel interface or remote software control.

Front Panel: POWER, TEMP SET, RAMP RATE, HOLD TIME, START/STOP, MENU.

Temperature Control: Set point, ramp rate, hold time, stability criteria. Safety: Temperature limits, pressure monitoring, leak detection. Communication: Network configuration, device addressing, protocol settings. Maintenance: Calibration, diagnostic tests, system status.

Connecting to System

Flow path connections: Inlet from pump, outlet to detector. Electrical: Power input, communication cables.

Turn off all system components before making connections.
Connect tubing: Use appropriate HPLC fittings and ensure proper tightness.
Electrical connections: Connect power and communication cables securely.
System integration: Configure in Chromeleon or other control software.

Tip: Use leak-test solution at low pressure to verify all connections before operation.

Operation Procedures

Supports isothermal and temperature gradient methods.

Power on: Allow system to initialize and reach standby temperature.
Method setup: Program temperature parameters in control software.
Column conditioning: Equilibrate column at starting temperature.
Start run: Initiate temperature program with analytical method.
Monitor: Watch temperature stability and system pressure.
Shutdown: Cool system to storage temperature before turning off.
Data logging: Record temperature profiles and system performance.

WARNING! Do not exceed maximum temperature or pressure ratings. Monitor for leaks during operation.

Maintenance Features

Self-diagnostics: System status monitoring, error logging. Calibration: Temperature calibration procedure. Cleaning: Flow path cleaning protocols. Software updates: Firmware upgrade procedures.

Care & Cleaning

Disconnect power before maintenance. Use approved cleaning solutions only. Wipe exterior with damp cloth; avoid solvents.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners. Ensure compartment is dry before reconnecting power.

Regulatory Information

CE Mark: Complies with European Union safety standards. UL Listed: Meets North American electrical safety requirements. RoHS Compliant: Free of restricted hazardous substances. ISO 9001: Manufactured under quality management system. For technical support, visit www.thermofisher.com or contact 1-800-532-4752.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Temperature unstable	Ambient conditions/calibration	Check room temperature stability; recalibrate temperature sensor.
Communication failure	Cables/configuration	Verify cable connections; check device address and network settings.
Pressure fluctuations	Flow path obstruction	Check for blockages in tubing and fittings; inspect column.
Leak detection	Fitting integrity	Tighten all fittings; replace damaged seals and ferrules.
Power issues	Electrical supply	Verify power cord connection; check circuit breaker and outlet.

Reset: Power cycle unit; perform system reset through menu if available.

Service: 1-800-532-4752; www.thermofisher.com