Frequently Asked Questions

Changing the current convention during acquisition (Framework version 4.10 or newer):

We have seen several examples where a customer has recorded an open circuit voltage of 3, 4, or even 5 volts when running EIS on a coated sample.  The Eoc values that were recorded in these experiments are probably not real Eoc readings.  For very, very good coatings, such as the ones that these researchers were studying, we recommended that the potentiostatic EIS measurement be done at a potential vs. Eref, not vs. Eoc. The Eoc values are often not related to the coating or to the substrate: They are a function of the length of time the potentiostat has been connected to the cell.

After updating Framework you may be prompted to update the firmware on your instruments. To begin, make sure the instruments that need a firmware update are powered on and connected to the computer via the USB cable. This guide is valid for all Reference and Interface family instruments

Gamry sells the Saturated Calomel and Ag/AgCl Reference Electrodes.  Proper care must be taken to ensure that your electrode continues to take accurate measurements.  The tip of the electrode is a Vycor frit (clear) or electro porous glass (opaque white).  The frit allows ionic transport into the electrode.  In order to operate properly the frit must always be kept wet with electrolyte.  Reference Electrodes can be stored for short periods of time with a rubber cap installed over the frit.  A securely fitted cap can keep a frit in good working condition for about 2 months.  For a better storage method, immerse the tip of the electrode into a beaker of saturated KCl solution.  Electrodes stored in this manner will have a working frit for a very long time.

The Copy to clipboard button is located on the toolbar of the Chart tab when your data file is displayed in Echem Analyst. This button gives you the option to copy a Bitmap, Metafile, or raw data directly to the Windows Clipboard.

There are several possible reasons that this message will appear during an EIS scan. The first thing to check is that all of your cell connections are appropriate.

Gamry potentiostats have either 9 or 11 current measurement ranges.  The value of the current range indicates the maximum current that the range can measure.  For example, these are the current measurement ranges of a Reference 600 potentiostat:

Authorization Codes activate your Gamry Software to work with your potentiostat. Each of the software packages has a package name (e.g. “DC105” for DC Corrosion Techniques) and a 10-digit Authorization Code that is linked to the serial number of your instrument.