Quality Control: Instrumentation
To reduce uncertainty and variability in fluorescence measurements, instruments should be checked regularly.
- Light source - age
- Consistency of light settings over time (measure light intensity with light meter)
- Cuvette tightness and proper sealing to avoid light exposure during dark adapted measurements
- If fiber optic cable is exposed (e.g., in portable fluorometers), it should not be too tightly wound, or fibers may break
- Record equipment calibration - excitation light might lead to fluorescence signal from PSI (if wavelength > 700nm)
Image source: http://www.licor.com/env/products/photosynthesis/chambers/6400-40.html