Analyzing Samples 
Agilent Cary 630 FTIR Spectrometer User’s Guide  33 
CAUTION 
Although ZnSe is fairly resistant to most chemicals, it is still possible that the 
ZnSe crystal or metal mounting plate can be damaged by extreme samples. Only 
measure samples with a pH between 5 and 9. Do not leave extremely acidic 
samples on the metal mounting plate for an extended time.  
CAUTION 
Hard or abrasive material can scratch or crack the ZnSe Crystal and cause 
deterioration in the ZnSe ATRs performance. 
CAUTION 
The ZnSe crystal is naturally a hard and brittle material. The ATR window is 
relatively thin (0.5 mm or less) and can crack under excessive pressure 
conditions. Ensure that the sample makes contact with the entire surface area of 
the ZnSe and not just a point within the ZnSe. Avoid using the sample press on 
samples that may be sharp or pointed. 
 
If the sample is a liquid or paste, the sample press does not need to be 
used at all. In this case, you are now ready to proceed with the 
analysis.  
If the sample is a powder or solid, the sample press must be in contact 
with the sample. To make contact, rotate the sample press knob in a 
clockwise direction until it reaches the detent (click-in) position. The 
sample press arm uses a slip clutch mechanism, whereby the 
maximum applied pressure cannot be surpassed — once maximum 
pressure has been reached, the slip clutch mechanism will click and 
not allow any extra pressure to be exerted on the sample.  
4  For instructions on collecting a sample spectrum using the 
software, refer to the Agilent MicroLab PC Software User’s Guide. 
5  After completing the sample measurement, immediately clean the 
sample from the accessory using the instructions provided on  
Page 27. It is important to make sure both the ZnSe sampling 
window and the sample press tip are free of any residue from the 
previous sample. 
For instructions on reviewing results and handling sample data, refer 
to the Agilent MicroLab PC Software User’s Guide.