2103 Modem Module
Section 6 Maintenance
6-2
6.3 Desiccant The 2103 Modem uses desiccant to protect the internal compo-
nents from moisture damage. The cartridge is filled with indi-
cating silica gel, which is blue or yellow when dry. As the
desiccant becomes saturated, the color changes from blue to pink,
or from yellow to green. Replace the desiccant before the entire
length of the cartridge turns pink or green.
6.3.1 Replacing the
Desiccant
The desiccant is contained in a cartridge located on the left side
of the 2103 Modem. To remove the cartridge, unscrew the collar
and slide the cartridge out of the 2103 Modem. The clear tube
reveals the silica gel desiccant inside.
To replace the silica gel desiccant:
1. Hold the cartridge upright with the collar at the top.
2. As shown in the margin, push the collar off the cartridge.
3. Empty the saturated silica gel beads or granules.
4. Fill the tube with new (Isco P/N 099-0011-03) or reacti-
vated (see section 3.3.2) silica gel desiccant.
5. Press the collar onto the tube.
6. Slide the cartridge into the 2103 Modem. Tighten the collar
to seal the cartridge in place.
6.3.2 Reactivating the
Desiccant
Silica gel beads and granules of desiccant can be reactivated.
CAUTION
Desiccant may produce irritating fumes when heated. Observe
the following precautions:
• Use a vented oven in a well ventilated room.
• Do not remain in the room while the regeneration is taking
place.
• Use the recommended temperature. Avoid heating the
desiccant at higher than recommended temperatures.
There is the potential of irritating fumes coming from the des-
iccant during reactivation. Because of this, we urge you to use
caution, and to heat the desiccant in a well ventilated room.
Material Safety Data Sheets are in the back of this manual.
The desiccant’s ability to remove moisture may lessen with each
saturation/reactivation cycle, resulting in a need for more fre-
quent service. After several cycles, the desiccant may no longer
be effective as it saturates too quickly. At this point, replace the
desiccant.
Collar
Cartridge