Spectrometers are instruments which can be termed “radiation- measuring machines”. The task of a spectrometer is to analyses, it must  be calibrated, for which purpose appropriate calibration samples are used. Calibration firstly consists of measuring samples of known composition, usually reference samples; the user’s samples should be included in the calibration; secondly, in setting up calibration curves and inputting the calibration data into the spectrometer-computer.

   The spectrometer can only analyse a selection of sample types, namely those who for which it has been calibrated. In so doing, care must be taken not only with the bases and the concentration ranges and sample types is possible within limits which are determined by the spectrometer equipment.

   Today calibration is often carried out in-plant by the spectrometer manufacturer, and the user should be invited to be present. This ensures that a spectrometer is supplied which complies with the order and user’s requirements. Today calibration only takes a few days or even less. A much longer time is required for the user to learn manipulation, including computer options.

   Users are not recommended to learn how to set up additional analysis programmes in spectrometers for solids. Since this is seldom necessary, the Analytical Service of the spectrometer manufacture should be called-on for this purpose. In the case of spectrometers for liquid it is usually necessary to learn how to set up analysis programmes.

Note:

    For types of samples for which only a few or no reference samples are obtainable , the user is urged to try to procure “second-hand Standards” as soon as possible. Approaches can be made to friendly firms, Institutes or Associations, or chemical analyses can be carried out by the user himself, or these can be arranged.

   When the spectrometer has passed quality control proper calibration is required, and for this purpose appropriate calibration and recalibration samples are necessary.