Shimadzu Spd20a User Manual May 2026

The Shimadzu SPD-20A user manual outlines a daily SOP that takes 5 minutes but saves hours of rework.

If your SPD-20A is connected via CBM-20A to LabSolutions, the software includes a "Module Help" menu. Click on the SPD-20A icon → "Manual" to open context-sensitive pages for error codes.

Before diving into procedures, here are the core specifications you will consistently reference in the Shimadzu SPD-20A user manual:

| Parameter | Specification | |-------------------------|--------------------------------------------------| | Wavelength Range | 190 – 600 nm | | Light Source | Deuterium lamp (D2) for UV; Tungsten lamp (optional for Vis) | | Bandwidth | 8 nm | | Wavelength Accuracy | ±1 nm | | Noise Level | ±0.25 × 10⁻⁵ AU (at 254 nm, 2 sec time constant) | | Drift | ±1 × 10⁻⁴ AU/h | | Cell Volume | 12 µL (standard), 8 µL (semi-micro), 2.5 µL (micro) | | Time Constant | 0.1 to 3.0 sec (adjustable) |

Keep a printed copy of this table near your instrument. shimadzu spd20a user manual

The Shimadzu SPD-20A is a high-sensitivity UV-VIS detector for Shimadzu Prominence HPLC systems. This guide summarizes the core operating procedures, maintenance, and troubleshooting found in the SPD-20A/20AV instruction manual. Quick Setup & Operation

Power On: Switch on the main power at the bottom left of the unit.

Software Connection: Open your control software (e.g., LabSolutions or EZStart). A beep confirms connection, and the Remote LED should light up. Lamp Activation:

The detector uses a Deuterium (D2) lamp for UV (190–700 nm). The SPD-20AV model also includes a Tungsten (W) lamp for the visible range (up to 900 nm). "D2" will appear on the display when the lamp is lit. The Shimadzu SPD-20A user manual outlines a daily

Wavelength Setting: Set your target wavelength (e.g., 254 nm) via the software method or front panel.

Baseline Zeroing: Perform a "Zero" or "Autozero" once the mobile phase is flowing and the baseline has stabilized. Routine Maintenance

Regular upkeep is critical for baseline stability and sensitivity. Lamp Life: Both D2 and W lamps typically last 2,000 hours.

Check hours: Press the Function button on the front panel until "Lamp Hour" is displayed. Flow Cell Care: When your SPD-20A displays an error, do not panic

The standard flow cell is temperature-controlled to prevent baseline drift from room temperature changes.

If the baseline is noisy or drifting, flush the cell with an appropriate solvent (like Isopropanol) to remove air bubbles or contaminants.

Leak Inspection: Periodically check the front panel and drain tube for any signs of liquid, which may indicate a loose fitting or cell leak. UV-VIS detector / Photodiode Array Detector - Shimadzu

When your SPD-20A displays an error, do not panic. Consult the manual’s Chapter 5 matrix.