A Thermo NanoDrop 2000c spectrophotometer at UC San Diego was experiencing a start-up failure and wavelength verification error. During diagnostics, the optical switch was unable to complete wavelength verification because the Xenon light source was not illuminating during startup.
Inspection confirmed that the Xenon lamp had failed electrically. Power and signal lines to the lamp were checked, and no arc discharge or lamp output was observed, while the optical switch itself was found to be functional but unable to proceed without a working light source.
The failed Xenon source was replaced with an Excelitas LS-288 lamp. After installation, the system underwent full optical calibration and wavelength verification using calibration check fluid.
The NanoDrop 2000c successfully passed calibration testing and was returned to normal operating condition.
