Connecting with the analyzer

The following tutorial describes the basic steps you'll follow when you turn on the LI-830 or LI-850 for the first time.

1. Install the software on your computer

The software is used to configure data communication, analog and digital outputs, alarms, data logging, and to verify the calibration. Software is available from licor.com/env/support/LI-850/software.html.

2. Install an air filter on the air-in port

Caution: Always install an air filter on the input air before operating the LI-830 or LI-850. Failure to use a filter will cause contamination of the optical bench. As an extra precaution, you can blow compressed air through the filter in the normal flow direction to remove any contaminants.

Retrieve an air filter and tubing from the accessories kit. Cut a 5 to 10 cm piece of tubing. Attach the filter and tubing to the air-in port. Observe the arrow on the filter and be sure that the air flow is in the proper direction.

3. Install the USB cable

The USB connection is the simplest way to connect the analyzer with a computer. If you want to use the RS-232 serial connection instead, connect the cable to the serial port, and install a serial-to-USB adapter on the serial cable, if needed.

4. Power on the gas analyzer

The LI-830 and LI-850 will turn on when power is supplied, so plug in the power cable to turn it on. If you use an alternative power supply, it must be able to source a minimum of 1.2 A at 12 VDC while the instrument warms up. After the warmup, the instrument will draw about 0.3 A at 12 VDC.

5. Connect with the gas analyzer

Start the software.

Click the Connection button in the upper right of the display. Select your instrument from the list, set the data rate, then click Connect. Data will populate the window after connecting. You can enter the COM port manually by checking Manual Port and setting the port number (COM#).

If you are using Windows® 7 or 8, install the drivers before you connect, as described in Installing device drivers.

The terminal strip

The terminal strip connects to the front panel of the instrument. The pin assignments are given on the top of the instrument, and there is a sticker in the accessories kit that you can use to help identify which terminal is which.

Terminal Label Description
1 12-30 VDC Voltage In, 12-30 VDC
2 GND Ground
3 High Alarm High Alarm
4 GND Ground
5 Low Alarm Low Alarm
6 GND Ground
7 V OUT 2 Voltage output channel 2
8 GND Ground
9 V OUT 1 Voltage output channel 1
10 GND Ground
11 4-20 mA 2 Current output channel 2
12 GND Ground
13 4-20 mA 1 Current output channel 1
14 GND Ground

Powering the LI-830 and LI-850

A power supply—either a battery or the universal power adapter—can be connected to the LI-830 and LI-850 power jack or to pins 1 and 2 on the terminal strip. The instruments require 12 to 30 VDC. The power supply must be able to provide 14 watts (1.2 A at 12 V) during warmup and about 3.6 watts (0.3 A at 12 V) during normal operation.

Using the universal power adapter

The included power supply is compatible with mains power in most localities globally (input 100 to 240 VAC, 50 to 60 Hz; output 12 VDC, 2.5 amps). You may need to install different blades from the outlet adapter kit to fit your wall outlets.

Using the terminal strip power connectors

The terminal strip has connectors for any power supply that has bare leads. Pin 1 is the positive (+) terminal, and pin 2 is the negative (-) terminal.

Installing device drivers

If you are using Windows 7 and 8, you'll need to install device drivers. After connecting the LI-830 and LI-850 to your computer with the USB cable, follow these steps:

  1. Download the drivers and unzip the file.
  2. Drivers are available at licor.com/env/support/LI-850/software.html or directly at licor.app.boxenterprise.net/s/pamrygkdwsl8c61wj6y815gnf4tukh3t
  3. Press the Windows key (), type Device Manager, and press Enter to open your device manager.
  4. Under Other Devices, select the LI-830/LI-850.
  5. Right-click LI-830/LI-850 and select Update Driver Software.
  6. Browse and select the folder with the driver files.
  7. Click Next to finish installing the drivers.
  8. When they are installed, you should see LI-COR 8x0 under Ports (COM & LPT).

Storing the gas analyzer

When you are done using the gas analyzer, follow these practices to be sure that it is ready to use the next time you need it. The instrument can be stored in non-condensing conditions. If the instrument is stored in high humidity or moderate humidity for a long time while powered off, some optical components may temporarily become saturated with humidity. If this occurs, the instrument may need to run for several days before readings return to normal. When storing the instrument.

  • Install the covers over the air inlet and outlet. This will keep dust, bugs, and other contaminants out of the optical cell.
  • Disconnect the power supply and power wires.
  • If possible, store the instrument in an air conditioned environment.