Hi all,

Since there is discussion of light bulb heaters in the Delta XL source, I
was wondering if these exist in the MAT 253 source (I haven't opened it up
yet).

The reason I ask is because I am curious about "normal" or "routine" water
background signals in these instruments under continuous flow peripheral
operations (i.e. GC-combustion) and if these levels could be related to
the light bulb heaters.  When comparing fairly equal setups between a
GC-C-MAT253 and a GC-C-MAT252, it seems that the MAT 253 always "sees"
alot more water.  The MAT 252 does not have these internal heaters.

Any information would be appreciated.

cheers,
-Herb
Cornell University


> Hello,
>
>      Here's a problem we've been having with our Delta XL for years that I
> KNOW others have had as well.
>
>     Inside the source of the instrument there are two 'light bulb/heaters'
> that are used to drive off water in the source. The light bulbs are
> connected by tiny connectors that are very fragile and have a tendency
> to slip off or even break if the light bulbs are not connected exactly
> right. These connectors usually only last thru 2-3 light bulb changes
> before they become unusable. Of course, if the clips need to be
> replaced, we have to buy the entire heater assembly from Thermo, and
> replace the entire thing (not an easy task).
>     My question is this: How have other list members dealt with this
> problem? Is there an easier way to replace the heater bulbs without
> all the fuss and muss?
>
> Let me know.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Bernie Genna
> NCSU
>