VSP-G1 Quick Start Guide

This is the Quick Start Guide for standard operation of a VSParticle Generator One (VSP-G1) unit. For first time operators, detailed information or troubleshooting, please refer to the User manual.

A themed and printable version of the quick start guide is available for download here: File:VSP-G1 Quick Start Guide.pdf. A laminated copy of this version is included in the box in which the VSP-G1 is delivered.

Ensure a safe system

Warning: Failure to verify the items below may result in compromised operation of the system, including exposure to nanoparticles, pressure build-up and performance issues.

Only use flexible tubing for the gas inlet when using the gas inlet labeled "Gas inlet only". This inlet will move during start up.
Use conductive tubing for any gas outlet used as particle exhaust.
Ensure the system is leak tight. A system that is not leak tight may expose the operator to nanoparticles during operation. Refer to the user manual section on leak tightness for more information.
Ensure no gas is flowing. During start up, the electrode alignment sequence may temporarily block the flow of gas in certain flow configurations.

Perform electrode alignment procedure

After ensuring the system is safe, prepare the system for sparking by completing the following steps:

Switch on the VSP-G1 using the mains switch on the back panel near the power connector. Ensure the power cable is properly fitted and powered.
When the "Start electrode alignment?" message appears on the display, press and release the right hand dial on the front panel to start the alignment sequence.
Wait for the alignment procedure to complete. Several messages appear on the display during the sequence to indicate activity. The integrated LED on the button will blink during the entire sequence.

Once complete, the LED around the button on the front panel becomes solid red and the display shows the "Ready to spark" message.

Start gas flow

Before sparking can commence, the flow of carrier gas needs to be started. The steps to turn on the flow may vary per setup, but in general these steps apply to any system:

Ensure the pressure in the system cannot exceed 1.2 bar absolute. This can be implemented using a pressure monitoring system upstream of the VSP-G1 or by limiting the pressure otherwise.
Check that a the outlet of the system is free of blockages, i.e. all required valves are open.
Start the gas flow.
Monitor the pressure to ensure it is within the required range (0.8-1.2 bar(a)).

Notification: Carrier gas selection: The VSP-G1 supports Ar and N₂ as carrier gases. The system needs to be configured for the carrier gas that you use. Follow the instructions in the operating and maintenance guide to verify the right carrier gas setting is selected. If set incorrectly, the spark will be unstable or very slow in reaching the desired setpoints.

Set parameters and toggle sparking

The set points for charging current (frequency control) and gap voltage may be altered when the system displays the "Ready to spark" message and when the system is sparking. The set points are controlled by the two dials on the front panel. The left hand dial is associated with the gap voltage setpoint while the right hand dial controls the charging current. To change a setpoint:

Press and release the corresponding dial. The unit of the associated value (e.g. kV or mA) will start blinking indicating the value is unlocked.
Rotate the dial to set the desired value.
Press and release the dial once more or wait 2 seconds to lock the value.

To start sparking, press and release the button on the left hand side of the front panel. The indicator LED around the button will change from solid to blinking red, indicating the machine is in operation. To stop sparking, press and release the button once more. This will return the system to the "Ready to spark" mode.

Shutting down

To shut down the system, follow these steps:

Make sure the system is in "Ready to spark" mode.
Press and release both dials simultaneously to enter the menu. The option to shut down the system is selected upon reaching the menu.
Press and release the right hand dial to confirm shutdown.
Wait for the message "Please power off" to appear
Set the mains switch near the power cable at the back of the system to the 0 position.

The gas flow to the system may be stopped before or after the shutdown procedure.