Patent ID: 6148657
Filing Date: 2000-11-21
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
A method of analyzing a breath sample, comprising components having retention times, with an apparatus for analyzing a breath sample, the method comprising:(a) initiating starting, the starting comprising heating a detector and column to a prescribed temperature for supplying a carrier gas to a chromatographic column and testing the same;(b) introducing a breath sample into said apparatus;(c) desorption, the desorption comprising heating a first absorbent tube and cooling a second absorbent tube, followed by heating the second absorbent tube;(d) detecting a peak for each retention time by means of the detector;(e) reducing temperature of the detector and the column and discontinuing supply of the carrier gas;(f) measuring sensitivity of the column with a standard gas;(g) measuring resolution of the column with a standard gas;(h) conditioning the column when sensitivity of resolution falls below a threshold value;(i) again measuring sensitivity and resolution after completion of conditioning; and(j) warning a user of deterioration of the column when a measured sensitivity or resolution falls below said threshold value.