Calypso Hardware
The Calypso hardware generates and delivers accurate sample composition
gradients to the detectors. The SP-3 accessory comprises a set of three
computer-controlled syringe pumps and a built-in multi-channel vacuum degasser,
together with associated tubing, filters, and valves. The syringe pumps utilize
dc-servo motors for smooth, pulse-free delivery and accurate mixing.
Calypso provides two options for configuring the MALS and concentration
detectors: parallel and serial. The serial configuration illustrated in Fig. 2
is standard for most chromatography applications. In the parallel configuration
depicted in Fig. 3, the sample flow is split between the two detectors at a
fixed ratio, optimized to guarantee equal concentrations in each detector upon
each injection. This configuration permits smaller sample volumes than the
serial mode. A single valve integrated into the SP-3 enables switching instantly
between serial and parallel configurations.
Fig.2
Fig.3
Many users will want to share their detectors between Calypso automated batch
measurements and an on-line separation technique such as SEC-MALS or FFF-MALS.
For this purpose, a 3-way valve is integrated into the SP-3. Both the SEC (or
FFF) output stream, and the Calypso syringe pumps stream, may be connected
permanently to the detectors; a simple valve rotation selects one or the other
of the inputs.