As the seasons change, it’s always a good practice to give your instrumentation some much-needed attention and routine maintenance.
Here is a list of tips to help you get your LI-6800 or LI-6400/XT photosynthesis system ready for a new season of measurements.
LI-6800 Portable Photosynthesis System
Check your software version(s) and update to the latest instrument software, if necessary.
Check when the instrument was last factory-calibrated, noting the recommended frequency.
Check and replace the console air filter (refer here),and check the sensor head dust trap and replace filters if they appear dirty or you are experiencing flow warning messages. Refer here for more information.
Clean the chamber windows and remove any debris. Replace Propafilm and leaf gaskets as necessary.
Check tubing quick connects and ensure they provide good connection. Replace if necessary (rare).
Clean o-rings and threads on scrubber tubes with a moist paper towel, according to these instructions.
Check and correctly position the leaf temperature thermocouple, if applicable.
Check the charge gauge of the batteries and recharge as necessary.
If you have access to calibration gases, check the zero and span of the analyzers.
Run the warmup and system tests and resolve any failures found.
LI-6400/XT Portable Photosynthesis System
Check your software version(s), and update to the latest instrument software, if necessary.
Check when the instrument was last factory-calibrated, noting the recommended frequency.
Replace the console air filter. Refer to the manual for more information.
Clean the chamber windows and remove any debris. Replace Propafilm and leaf gaskets as necessary. Check that all upper and lower chamber o-rings are in place, if applicable. Refer to the manual for more information.
Check tubing quick connects and ensure they provide good connection. Replace if necessary (rare).
Clean o-rings and threads on scrubber tubes with a moist paper towel. Refer to the manual for more information.
Check the oil filter inside the CO2 source assembly, and replace if needed. Refer to the manual for more information.
Check and correctly position the leaf temperature thermocouple, if applicable.
Charge the batteries, if necessary; note too, that batteries should always be stored in a fully charged state.
If you have access to calibration gases, check the zero and span of the analyzers. Refer to the manual for more information.
Go through each step of the preparation checklist in Chapter 4 of the manual and resolve any issues found.
