A high internal background is an indication that the system may be leaking. To check if a high internal background is present, follow the steps below:
1. Press the stop key and turn the filaments off.
2. Perform an Auto Zero function and then turn the filaments back on.
An internal reading of greater than 4 x 10–5 with the “Stop” key activated indicates a high background and means the system may have developed an atmospheric leak into the vacuum system.