TMA Q Series Getting Started Guide
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Using the TMA
All of your TMA experiments will have the following general outline. In some cases, not all of these steps
will be performed. The majority of these steps are performed using the instrument control software. The
instructions needed to perform these actions can be found in the online help in the instrument control pro-
gram; therefore, they will not all be covered in detail here.
• Calibrating the instrument
• Selecting, calibrating, and zeroing the probe
• Selecting the desired mode (standard or calibration) through the TA instrument control software
• Preparing and loading the sample
• Adjusting the thermocouple position and closing the furnace
• Creating or choosing the test procedure and entering sample and instrument information through the
TA instrument control software
• Setting the purge gas flow rate
• Adding coolant to the furnace reservoir for subambient operation, if applicable
• Starting the experiment.
To obtain accurate results, follow procedures carefully.
Before You Begin
Before you set up an experiment, ensure that the TMA and the controller have been installed properly. Make
sure you have:
• Made all necessary cable connections from the TMA to the computer
• Connected all gas lines
• Powered up the unit
• Connected any desired accessories
• Connected the instrument with the controller
• Become familiar with controller operations
• Calibrated the TMA, if necessary.
Chapter 3
Use, Maintenance, & Diagnostics