Chromatographic Symptoms 3
Troubleshooting 35
Figure 1 Cyclic spiking
Cyclic spiking can be caused by the following:
• An electric motor
• Building heating/cooling system
• Other electronic interferences in the lab
Figure 2 Random spiking
• Spikes are isolated baseline disturbances, usually appearing
as sudden (and large) upscale movements. If accompanied by
noise, resolve the noise problem first since spiking may
disappear at the same time.Check for a contaminated
detector.
• For a packed column, check that the packed column exit is
properly sealed with glass wool.
• Check packed column installation.