I've run into a problem with our FACScan (HP system) that seems rather bizarre. I started to set compensation manually using the FACScan Research Software, but when I put cells on there appeared to be no flow through the instrument (on the computer screen or the instrument panel). So I checked all the clear lines for occlusions and none were obvious. I marked the fluid level on the sheath tank and after a few minutes the level had dropped below the mark, indicating that fluid was going through the system. So I quit FRS and launched Autocomp and after pressing the "PMT" button I had events occurring in the lower left quadrant of the FL1/FL2 window and events on the FSC axis - with only water in my tube (i.e. no beads). The flow rate of these "events" was between 3500 and 5000. Of course, after a couple of minutes the software informs me of an error. Could someone shed a little light on what might be occurring here? What are these "events" that Autocomp is detecting? The instrument was used about a month ago without any troubles, and I take great care in trying to keep the lines free of occlusions since it frequently sets idle for this amount of time. This instrument was donated to our college a couple of years ago, and I don't have any formal training for maintaining it. I'd sure like to take such a course, but it is fiscally prohibitive for me. So, I'm relying on the collective expertise (and generosity) of the group to help me out. Thanks, Tony -- Tony Schountz, Ph.D. Dept. of Biology Mesa State College
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