Changing a Probe
If the probe is to be changed, the procedure below should be followed. Probes are fragile and expensive, so you should check with the system manager before attempting to change the probe. The magnet, and in particular eddy currents, greatly affect the mechanical motion of the probe. As you remove the probe from the magnet expect it to accelerate suddenly as it reaches the lower end of the magnet bore. Also be prepared for some resistance when you place the probe into the magnet.
Procedure for Changing a Probe:
- 1.
- Ensure that no acquisition is running by clicking the STOP button in the upper toolbar of the TopSpin window or entering stop in the command line.
- 2.
- Turn off any heating or cooling from the system. Use the ’edte’ command to switch off the heater. Allow the probe to settle to room temperature. Do not shut off the system itself!
- 3.
- Remove the air/N2 connection which is attached to the base of the probe.
- 4.
- After making sure that the magnet bore is not plugged, remove any sample that may be present in the magnet by activating the LIFT button in the BSMS window.
- 5.
- Turn off the LIFT.
- 6.
- Disconnect all BNC cables from the probe base.
- 7.
- Disconnect the thermocouple, heater and any other gradient or PICS connection.
- 8.
- Using the attached screwdriver, loosen the two screws which secure the probe in the magnet.
- 9.
- Lower the probe straight down and out of the magnet.
- 10.
- Insert the new probe and secure using the two screws.
- 11.
- Reconnect the coaxial cables, thermocouple, heater, cooling lines and any other connections as appropriate.
- 12.
- Turn the heater back on.