Abstract: A modular vial autosampler has a storage area for vials containing samples to be analyzed and at least one modular sampling station. A vial transfer mechanism includes an arm having a gripper that lifts a sample vial from the storage section, and the arm moves it to a station for identification and then to a sampling station, and under central control activates the sampling station for obtaining a sample for analysis. The vial transfer mechanism gripper is movable in X, Y, and Z directions to capture and move a selected vial and includes an alignment guide for the vials. Potentiometers are used for providing signals indicating arm position and the control is provided with updated information for calibration of the potentiometers and also updated position information for the arm relative to a fixed home position is obtained.

Abstract: An air sampler includes a stand adapted to support sample enclosures at spaced-apart locations. A multiposition valve is mounted to the stand. The multiposition valve has a plurality of inlet ports and an outlet port selectively fluidly coupled to any of the plurality of inlet ports. A plurality of inlet lines connects the sample enclosures to the inlet ports. A concentrator trap mounted on the stand and coupled to the outlet port concentrates selected constituents from one of the sample enclosures.

Abstract: An air sampler includes a stand for supporting a plurality of sample enclosures from which samples can be randomly and selectively obtained. In a first embodiment, a bracket adjustably fixed to the stand supports each of the sample enclosures. In a second embodiment, an inlet line fluidly couples each of the sample enclosures to a valve carried by the stand. The inlet line has a flexible portion adjacent the end coupleable to the sample enclosure to allow limited misalignment between the sample enclosure and the stand.

Abstract: A fluid handling analytical instrument includes a controlled device and a controller operably coupled to the controlled device to selectively control the controlled device with a control signal. A sensing device is operably coupled to the controller to sense the control signal and provide a signal indicative of a status of the control signal.

Abstract: A needle interface apparatus for maintaining a stable connection between a first instrument and a second instrument, such as an auto-sampler unit and a gas chromatograph. A needle interface apparatus is comprised of a modified septum nut on the second instrument which has a nipple, and a needle assembly having a sleeve positioned around the needle wherein the sleeve frictionally fits over the nipple of the modified septum nut. A support tube surrounds the needle assembly and connected transfer line from the first instrument to minimize flexing of the outlet tubing relative to the needle assembly.