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Is there a brief test you recommend to familiarize myself with the system and ensure the system is running properly?
Is there a brief test you recommend to familiarize myself with the system and ensure the system is running properly?
Can I save the graphs that are automatically generated on the GPM screen?
Can I save the graphs that are automatically generated on the GPM screen?
The Auto Graphing capability is meant to provide the user with a visual indication of the data being recorded during a gas study. However, the graphs themselves are NOT automatically stored after the study is complete.
To save the graphs from the Auto Graphing feature, you can either:
- right click while on the graph screen and select "Save Image As . . .", or
- right click while on the graph screen and select "Copy", or
- do a Print Screen.
Please note that all of the raw data is stored in MS-Excel format.Therefore, you can always recreate a graph from the stored data by using the graphing feature within MS-Excel.
Where is the data from the study stored and can it be retrieved after a computer interruption?
Where is the data from the study stored and can it be retrieved after a computer interruption?
When you press the Record button on your GPM software screen, the program automatically stores your data in the file shown in the AutoSave location box. Therefore, if there has been a computer interruption during a study, you will be able to retrieve all of the data from the beginning of the study until the time of the computer interruption. To avoid the possibility of overwriting the data, do not start a new study until you retrieve the data from the interrupted study.
We recommend that you create a new file name before each study to make sure that previous data is not overwritten. If you do not change this file name, the default location that the program will store the study data in is C:\Program Files(x86)\ANKOMRF\Gas Pressure Monitor\GPM AutoSave.xls, depending on your specific operating system.
Why am I getting the message "error saving to xls file" popping up on my screen now that I've set up my new GPM software?
Why am I getting the message "error saving to xls file" popping up on my screen now that I've set up my new GPM software?
This is most likely because the default "AutoSave location" is in a location that your computer may not have "write" access to. In addition, behind the scenes the program is also attempting to save a log file of every communication between the coordinator and each module to the same folder. These are both stored on C:\Program Files(x86)\ANKOMRF\Gas Pressure Monitor or C:\Program Files\ANKOMRF\Gas Pressure Monitor. If in C drive you see both folders, Program Files and Program Files (x86), the GPM program will save to the Program Files (x86) folder. Have your system administrator give your computer write access to the correct folder/file path and the error should be resolved.
What do the different colored cells on my GPM screen represent?
How many RF modules can I fit in the 20 liter Water Bath (WB20)?
How many RF modules can I fit in the 20 liter Water Bath (WB20)?
Fifteen RF1 modules with 100-500ml size bottles attached will fit in the 20 liter Water Bath (WB20). Eight RF1 modules with 1 liter bottles attached will fit in the 20 liter Water Bath (WB20).
How often should I change the gasket seal between the electronics module and the glass bottle?
How often should I change the gasket seal between the electronics module and the glass bottle?
You should replace the gasket whenever it appears damaged. If you open and close the bottles once a week (on average), you should replace the gasket once every six months.
When should I replace the red septa if it has been pierced with a GC needle?
When should I replace the red septa if it has been pierced with a GC needle?
The red septa can be used repeatedly during a study as it reseals quite effectively when the needle is withdrawn. When it is being pierced during sampling of gasses it is important to use a small gauge needle and avoid puncturing the membrane in the same location. The red septa are found in Septa Bottles (7120, 7130, 7131 and 7132) and replacement 10 packs are available as part RF35. With a PTFE layer on both faces, it offers very low CO2 permeability compared to a standard silicone septum and, when new, contributes only about 0.001psi loss per hour through permeation. It is recommended that used septa be replaced before starting a run as CO2 permeation increases slightly each time a septum is pierced with the GC needle. If you opt to re-use septa for a specified number of uses be aware that with each penetration of a 10 µL (0.017" diam.) GC needle the CO2 permeation increases by about 0.001 psi/hr. So, when septa bottles are used in a study, use a septa bottle for your blank as well and pierce the septum on the blank with the needle as you do the rest of the samples to factor out the increased CO2 permeation. For further discussion on the use of a blank, see RF Getting Started Guide.
How can I sterilize the RF Gas Production System modules?
How can I sterilize the RF Gas Production System modules?
Do NOT use an autoclave as the electronics and bottle coating will be damaged.
How do I clean the module's vent valve?
How do I clean the module's vent valve?
Can I wash the RF bottles in a laboratory dishwasher?
Can I wash the RF bottles in a laboratory dishwasher?
When should I charge my RF16 and RF46 rechargeable batteries?
When should I charge my RF16 and RF46 rechargeable batteries?
How long should it take to charge my RF16 and RF46 rechargeable batteries?
How long should it take to charge my RF16 and RF46 rechargeable batteries?
What is the typical life expectancy of RF16 and RF46 rechargeable batteries?
What is the typical life expectancy of RF16 and RF46 rechargeable batteries?
Typically, a fully charged RF16 and RF46 Rechargeable battery should be able to power a module for approximately 10 days under normal conditions (20°- 40°Cm GPM settings of 60 second Live Interval and 1 valve opening sequence per hour.) As the live interval is shortened and with more rapid valve openings (based presumably on a higher gas production rate) the lifespan of the battery will be diminished. Colder temperatures will also diminish life expectancy. Although modules will function properly at lower temperatures (system operating temperature range is 5°- 60°C), RF16 and RF46 Rechargeable batteries will require more frequent recharging under these conditions. The 10 day estimate is based on having charged the RF16 and RF46 Rechargeable batteries for at least 3 hours using the ANKOM RF25 10-Station Battery Charger to a voltage of at least 6.7 volts. This should always be done before commencing a study. Voltage can be tested by plugging the battery into a module and checking voltage on the GPM software screen. Note that Rechargeable batteries will lose charge when not being used. Also charge batteries whenever the voltage drops to less than 6.3 volts. When running the system, remember to check the battery voltage several times daily and change the batter pack when the voltage decreases to less than 6.3V (in the GPM software, a module's voltage cell will be shaded YELLOW under these conditions). Changing the battery pack during the run will not affect test results.
What can I do to extend battery life?
What can I do to extend battery life?
Is there a way to charge the batteries while a long study is in progress?
Is there a way to charge the batteries while a long study is in progress?
See Dual Lead Battery Information.
Should the RF16 and RF46 batteries get hot?
Should the RF16 and RF46 batteries get hot?
No. If this happens, the battery pack may be defective or the module's circuit board may have failed. In the module, install another fully charged battery pack. Then run the module functional test found in RF Service Procedure 1. If this test fails or the battery pack gets hot, email ANKOM Technology at https://www.ankom.com/contact/technical-services or call 315-986-8090 for module repair.
Note: It is normal for the batteries to become warm to the touch when charging, while using the RF25 battery charger.How accurate are the pressure sensors used in the RF Gas Modules?
How accurate are the pressure sensors used in the RF Gas Modules?
One of my modules doesn't seem to be holding or building pressure. What should I do?
One of my modules doesn't seem to be holding or building pressure. What should I do?
One of my modules doesn't seem to be releasing pressure as set by the "Global Release" setting. What should I do?
One of my modules doesn't seem to be releasing pressure as set by the "Global Release" setting. What should I do?
See RF Service Procedure 1.
First, check the pressure within the module, if the pressure is approaching 10 psi, end the use of this module and unscrew the module top immediately to avoid over-pressurizing the bottle.
If the bottle is at a safe pressure (<10 psi) confirm that the "Global Release" Set button has been clicked. If a number is only typed in the "Global Release" box and the "Set" button has not been clicked, your desired global release setting will not be populated into the "Pressure Release" fields below each module # column. In this case, valves will not open to release pressure to your desired setting. Click "Set" if needed.
It may be that the exhaust tube is stuck from either lack of use or from condensation of the content that was in the bottle. While twisting back and forth the exhaust tube, gently pull on the tube to see if it is stuck shut. If this causes pressure to release, then execute the vent valve cleaning procedure detailed in RF Service Procedure 6 listed in the documents below.
Also, be sure the battery is not in the yellow range (6.29-6.00 volts) or red zone (<6.00 volts). It is possible that in the lower end of the yellow and in the red voltage range the battery will have enough power to communicate but not enough to open the valve - change the battery.
If this does not solve the problem, see if you can hear the solenoid faintly clicking (this will occur once every 15 seconds as the solenoid opens the valve). If it is clicking, but no pressure is releasing then the valve is stuck closed. Remove the module from the test and contact ANKOM Technology at https://www.ankom.com/contact/technical-services or call 315-986-8090 module repair.
If no clicking sound is audible the Solenoid may have been partially unplugged from the Circuit board. The Solenoid has two thin white wires going to a small white 2-pin connector on the Circuit board. Make sure the connector is securely plugged in and that the wires are not loose. If this does not resolve the problem there may be a problem with the Circuit board or the Solenoid. Remove the module from the test and contact ANKOM Technology at https://www.ankom.com/contact/technical-services or call 315-986-8090 for module repair.
Why does the cumulative pressure in the module drop off gradually, unexpectedly decrease or go negative?
Why does the cumulative pressure in the module drop off gradually, unexpectedly decrease or go negative?
There are several possible reasons for a cumulative pressure drop or negative pressure readings. Refer to the RF Curve Identification Chart in RF Service Procedure 10 for curve illustrations.
A. A leak in the system. First, be sure the system is not leaking. If there is a slow steady drop in pressure and the drop is isolated to one, or perhaps a few modules, check for leaks. Confirm that RF41 Synthetic Grease w/PTFE was used on the lip of the bottle. This also applies to the lip of the septa port on bottles so equipped. This aids in making a tight seal between the module top or septa cap, and the glass bottle. Second, inspect the gasket which seals the module top to the bottle. It is important to do this before each run is commenced. If the gasket is loose, or has slid to one side, or is showing signs of wear or deterioration, replace the gasket. Reference . RF Service Procedure 11After inspection and, if necessary, replacing the gasket, test the module per RF Service Procedure 1. For bottles with Septa Ports, ensure that the septa connection is tight and the septum does not have holes.
B.Temperature drop. Be sure that the temperature, over the course of the pressure drop, has not also been dropping. For instance, if a water bath was turned off or unplugged or if an oven door was opened, the resulting temperature drop will correspond to a pressure drop within the module.
C. Absorption of CO2 in the substrate liquid. Refer to the CO2 Absorption chart in RF Service Procedure 9. In the beginning of a study, CO2 in the head space of the bottle will dissolve into the liquid until it becomes saturated with CO2. If CO2 absorption happens faster than CO2 production, then the net result will be negative. After the fluid becomes saturated and/or CO2 production surpasses absorption, the pressure will begin rising. This can be avoided in one of two ways:
C-1 Purge the head space with CO2 and let it sit under 3-4 psi pressure to allow time for the CO2 to absorb into the liquid. Monitor the pressure and observe when the pressure decline levels off. Release the remaining pressure and immediately add the sample/substrate and start the experiment.
C-2 Bubble O2 into the solution until it is completely saturated. Purge the bottle head space with CO2 and start the experiment.
D. CO2 permeability through internal tubing. For reliable valve operations, silicone tubing is used in the valve assembly. This component is slightly CO2 permeable. In a pure CO2 environment at 2 psi, pressure studies show that the permeation rate is approximately 0.020-0.025 psi/hr. As a result of this phenomenon, a slight loss of pressure may be evident at the end of the study when gas production rates are leveling off. This is a normal occurrence and can be accounted for by running a blank in your study. See the RF Getting Started Guide for more information.
E. Temporary communication loss. Rarely a module can lose communication with the coordinator at the time of a valve vent cycle. When the module re-establishes communication, the actual pressure may be lower or higher than what it was before the communication loss. This will be recorded as a, typically sharp, cumulative pressure drop or spike. The cumulative curve can be adjusted by adding an offset from the point of pressure loss. This offset is the difference between the pressure just before the communication loss and the pressure immediately following the communication loss.
One of my modules is showing obviously erroneous pressure and/or temperature readings. What should I do?
One of my modules is showing obviously erroneous pressure and/or temperature readings. What should I do?
There are several things that could be the cause of faulty pressure and temperature readings. A loose or disconnected wire from either the temperature or pressure sensor may be the cause, as well as a fault within the sensor itself. A faulty circuit board could also be the problem.
A self-diagnosis can be done to identify the faulty part. First, inspect the two white 3-pin connectors that are side-by-side on the circuit board. These are adjacent to the solenoid (a silver colored cylinder). Make sure that they are firmly in place. Next, with the GPM program running, try wiggling the wires slightly on each part independently. If they suddenly start communicating normal readings during this operation, you have identified the faulty part. The wires may be loose. However, if the problem continues, try switching temperature sensors between the faulty module and one that is operating normally. The temperature sensor has three short black wires with a black plastic tip. If the problem is transferred with the temperature sensor, and if the previously malfunctioning module begins showing correct readings, the problem has been isolated to the temperature sensor. These are available for customer replacement, request part # RF38.
If the problem persists, try unplugging the pressure sensor connector from the circuit board and plug in a pressure sensor connector from a working module into the same spot on the faulty module's circuit board. The pressure sensor connector has white, black and red wires attached to it. If the system begins reading pressure correctly, the problem has been narrowed down to the pressure sensor. The module will need to be sent in for service to have this part replaced. Email ANKOM Technology at https://www.ankom.com/contact/technical-servicesor call 315-986-8090.
If by trying both temperature and pressure sensors from working modules, the problem is not resolved, the problem lies with the circuit board. Static discharge, high humidity/moisture contact with the circuit board or physical damage from dropping, etc. may have precipitated the problem. Email ANKOM Technology at https://www.ankom.com/contact/technical-servicesor call 315-986-8090.
Does the ANKOM RF Gas Production System monitor negative pressure, as in oxygen consumption studies?
Does the ANKOM RF Gas Production System monitor negative pressure, as in oxygen consumption studies?
When performing oxygen consumption studies, a NaOH or strong base is used to scavenge the CO2 produced by the aerobic metabolism. This produces a negative pressure as the O2 is consumed and the resulting production of CO2 reacts with the base.
One or more of my modules is not communicating with the GPM software. What should I do?
One or more of my modules is not communicating with the GPM software. What should I do?
There may be a problem with the radio frequency (RF) chip attached to the circuit board. This is a dark green/blue colored chip with a black antenna. Reference RF Service Procedure 13 for help in identifying the part. A little self-diagnosis can be done to determine if this part has failed. With the GPM program running, identify a module that is communicating normally. Let's say that module 1 is not working and module 2 is the working one. Unplug and remove the batteries from modules 1 and 2. Shut down the GPM program and restart it. Remove the RF chip from both modules, being careful to avoid pulling on the antenna. Plug the #1 RF chip onto module #2's circuit board and plug the #2 RF chip onto module #1's circuit board, effectively switching RF chips.
If the #2 RF chip works in module #1 and if the #1 RF chip does not work in module #2, the the #1 RF chip is not working and needs to be replaced. Unplug the batteries and return the RF chips to their respective modules. Contact ANKOM Technology at https://www.ankom.com/contact/technical-services or call 315- 986-8090 a replacement RF chip, part #7013. Indicate the RF chip number and the network number of your RF Gas Production System when contacting so that the RF chip is programmed properly. The network number could be any of 1-5 and is noted in the upper right corner of the ANKOM sticker on the RF2 Base Coordinator on the line following the "N".
If the #2 RF chip does not work in module #1 and the #1 RF chip works in Module #2, there is no problem with the #1 RF chip, but the problem is with the circuit board for Module #1. Contact ANKOM Technology at https://www.ankom.com/contact/technical-services or call 315-986-8090 for a replacement RF circuit board, part #7007. Reference RF Service Procedure 13 for help with installation of this part.
If the #2 RF chip does not work in module #1 and the #1 RF chip does not work in Module #2, both the RF chip and circuit board are faulty in Module #1. Email ANKOM Technology at https://www.ankom.com/contact/technical-services or call 315-986-8090 for a replacement RF chip, part #7013 and an RF circuit board, part #7007. Reference for help with installation of these parts RF Service Procedure 13
Why are my modules with temperature sensors not communicating with the GPM software?
Why are my modules with temperature sensors not communicating with the GPM software?
You must run GPM software version 9.7 or greater when operating modules with temperature sensors.
Why does my GPM software stop collecting data sometimes?
Why does my GPM software stop collecting data sometimes?
Power
If your PC is being powered by a battery or an inconsistent AC power source, the power could turn off or spike while the GPM software is running. This could cause the GPM software to stop collecting data. You should always run the GPM software on a PC that is connected to an AC power source with surge protection.
Operating System Settings
Your PC screen can go blank as a result of the settings in your PC operating system for:
− Sleep
− Hibernate
− Screen Saver
− Automatic Updates
If your PC screen goes blank while the GPM software is running, the data collection can be impacted.
To avoid issues associated with operating system settings, we recommend the following:
− Set the sleep setting to "Never."
− Set the hibernate setting to "Never."
− Set the screen saver setting to "None."
− Do operating system updates manually instead of automatically, as some operating system updates will reset the sleep and hibernate settings back to defaults after it performs the update.
NOTE2: Be aware that the sleep and hibernate settings can still be automatically changed after a manual operating system update. Therefore, you should always check and correct these settings as needed after an operating system update.
Other programs on your PC
Other programs on your PC can impact your GPM software, especially programs that automatically run like anti-Virus and anti-Malware. You should only update programs and run scans manually to avoid having them automatically run while the GPM software is running.
Network connections
If the PC running your GPM software is connected to a computer network, administrators of the network can make changes that impact the entire network. We recommend that the PC running the GPM software be disconnected from any computer networks (at least while the GPM software is running).
NOTE3: If you lose data during a run with the ANKOMRF System, there is a possibility that we can recover some of the data from the Detail Log file. Contact ANKOM Technology for assistance.
How do I update to the latest GPM software (Version 11.4)?
How do I update to the latest GPM software (Version 11.4)?
1) Use this link to purchase the GPM software (SKU: RF3).
2) Once you have the software file, follow the installation instructions in the Operator's Manual.
How long does the solenoid valve stay open when I click the "Valve Open" check box in the GPM software?
How long does the solenoid valve stay open when I click the "Valve Open" check box in the GPM software?
The valve will stay open for 90 seconds. The valve(s) can be closed before this time by clicking the "valve open" check box (to remove the check mark from the box) , clicking the "close valves" button, or by clicking the "Record" button. Since opening the valves moderately drains the batteries, it is recommended that they only be opened as needed.
How do I collect gas or liquid from the Gas Production System Bottles?
How do I collect gas or liquid from the Gas Production System Bottles?
Why is the Solenoid cylinder in the module getting hot?
Why is the Solenoid cylinder in the module getting hot?
The Solenoid cylinder in the module is part of the valve assembly. During a test while recording, normal valve openings are very brief and within range of 10-1000 milliseconds, which does not cause the Solenoid cylinder to get hot. If the "Open Valves" button is clicked or "Valve Open" check box (in the GPM software screen) is checked, the valve is continuously held open. The software will limit that period of time to 3 minutes, however it may still get rather hot. If using this function be sure to start with a fully charged battery as the "Valve Open" function has a significant drain on the battery. As soon as there is no need to have the valve open, click the "Close Valves" button or uncheck the "Valve Open" check box to avoid unnecessary use of the Solenoid and drain on the battery.
How do I convert pressure increase (psi) to volume of gas produced (mls)?
How do I convert pressure increase (psi) to volume of gas produced (mls)?
Why do my modules read different temperatures even though they are in the same environment?
Why do my modules read different temperatures even though they are in the same environment?
The sensors are accurate to within +/-2°C over a range of 5°C - 60°C. To account for any Module-to-Module differences in temperature sensing capability, the GPM software provides a calibration screen that can be used before data recording begins. See the Instrument Software Functionality section of the ANKOM Gas Production System Operator's Manual for details about calibrating the temperature sensors.
What is the volume of "dead space"?
What is the volume of "dead space"?
The volume of "dead space" between the vent valve and the septum on an RF module is .003 cubic inches for the RED capped modules, and .043 cubic for the BLACK capped modules.
Why do some of my modules show a temperature value and some don't?
Why do some of my modules show a temperature value and some don't?
A module that shows no temperature value likely either has no Temperature Sensor or has a faulty one. If your module(s) are not equipped with Temperature Sensors, your RF Gas Production System can be upgraded to include them. Contact ANKOM Technology at 315-986-8090 and ask for the RF39 Temperature Upgrade Kit.
If your module(s) have Temperature Sensors but no reading is displayed check to be sure that the Temperature Sensor is plugged in securely. The Temperature Sensor is connected to the Circuit Board with a white 3-pin connector and has three short black wires with a black tip and is adjacent to the Solenoid cylinder. If it is securely in place, try swapping it with a Temperature Sensor from a different module.
If this corrects the problem, the Temperature Sensor has been identified as the faulty part. Contact ANKOM Technology at https://www.ankom.com/contact/technical-services or call 315-986-8090 for a replacement Temperature Sensor (part #RF38). If this does not fix the problem, contact ANKOM Technology to have the module diagnosed and repaired.
Why do I see negative results at the beginning of my run?
Why do I see negative results at the beginning of my run?
Can static electricity damage my ANKOM RF Gas Production System?
Can static electricity damage my ANKOM RF Gas Production System?
Therefore, we highly recommend using an ANKOM Anti-Static wrist strap (RF50) when plugging or unplugging the RF16 or RF46 (dual lead) rechargeable battery packs in your RF1/RF5 modules.
What is the support for Gen 2 systems?
What is the support for Gen 2 systems?
ANKOM expects to be able to fully support the GEN2 system with all replacement parts for the next 6 months, possibly longer. Due to supply chain issues we will eventually be unable to replace the RF45 chip and the 7007 Circuit board. Chip reprogramming can still be done. All other repairs and replacement parts (RF31 Pressure sensors, RF11 Viton-silicone tube assembly, etc.) will continue to be available indefinitely.
Can you clarify how this migration from GEN2 to GEN3 will be done?
ANKOM is continuing to sell add-on and replacement RF1 modules for existing GEN2 RFS kits up to a total of 20 modules. At some point in 2023 we expect that will no longer be possible. All new RFS systems are using the GEN3 modules.
If I need some component, will you be able to provide it?
We expect to be able to fully support repairs on Gen 2 systems through the end of 2022.
The PC is not connecting to the Coordinator. What do I do?
The PC is not connecting to the Coordinator. What do I do?
1. Verify that you have a Gen2 Coordinator: A Gen2 Coordinator will have a number that is less than 1,000. If you have connectivity issues and your coordinator number is greater than 1,000 you have a Gen3 system. In that case, contact ANKOM using the contact link shown below.
2. Verify the problem: If you have this problem, when you attempt to start the GPM program you will see on your PC the message “Cannot access ANKOM Coordinator device,” OR while running the GPM program you will see the words “Not Connected” next to the word “Coordinator”.