How do I operate/maintain the 11.7eV lamp?

Typical useful life for argon lamps (11.7 eV) is several hundred hours. Argon lamps include high UV transmitting windows made of lithium fluoride, which is susceptible to degradation by water vapour. Occasionally, lamp output may be curtailed by exposure to high molecular weight VOCs, silicones or amines. However, lamps with lithium fluoride windows can be cleaned only by gentle polishing the surface of the window with anhydrous ethanol or methanol on a cotton swab. Excess alcohol should be removed with a lint free tissue. Argon lamps not in use should be stored in an anhydrous [moisture-free] environment to prevent slow degradation of the lithium fluoride window by ambient moisture. Contact sensors@ionscience.com if you require further information.