Chromatography data systems perform many complex tasks, including instrument control, data capture, qualitative and quantitative data analysis, and report generation. To perform these tasks efficiently in a variety of laboratory settings, data systems need rich feature sets, but as more features are added, complexity increases and usability typically decreases. Usability problems increase training costs and create more obstacles for operators, decreasing overall laboratory productivity.
This article describes a next-generation chromatography data system that combines intelligent features with operational simplicity. The Chromeleon® 7 chromatography management system (Dionex Corp., Sunnyvale, CA) software delivers rich, intelligent functionality with a simple, approachable user interface. Built using the modern development platform, the .NET Framework (Microsoft, Redmond, WA), Chromeleon 7 resembles familiar Microsoft Office applications, such as Outlook and Excel. Its thoughtfully implemented user interface provides intuitive and fast navigation.
The Chromeleon 7 system design is centered around one goal: move from sample to results as quickly, efficiently, and accurately as possible. This goal is achieved using the following four key software features:
- eWorkflows that provide an easy, powerful way to run any chromatography process
- A new user interface that organizes navigation and editing operations
- New peak detection and integration tools that minimize time spent on data processing
- Instant calculation of chromatography results.
The following sections describe these features, and explain how they support the goal of quick, efficient, and accurate operation.
eWorkflows: A framework for operational simplicity
Figure 1 - With an eWorkflow, the operator selects an instrument, indicates how many samples are to be analyzed, and specifies a starting position. The eWorkflow automatically generates the required injection list and loads the correct instrument conditions; thus the operator can start running the samples immediately. Correct processing parameters for the analysis are automatically applied, so that chromatograms are immediately processed and results are instantly calculated.
Fundamentally, all chromatography workflows are similar: samples are
injected, chromatographic separations are performed, signals are
captured, and results are generated. Where workflows differ is in the
details—such as the instrument conditions, injection sequence
requirements, and the techniques by which results are calculated—and
these differences create complexity for operators, reducing their
efficiency and creating high risk of errors.
The Chromeleon 7 software solves these problems using eWorkflows. An
eWorkflow is a set of rules that captures all of the unique aspects of a
chromatography workflow, and guides the operator through a minimal
number of choices needed to run that workflow. Using an eWorkflow, the
operator simply selects an instrument, specifies the number of samples
and the starting vial position in the autosampler, and begins the
analysis. The software then runs the chromatography, processes the data,
and produces final results (see Figure 1).
The eWorkflow framework reduces the number of steps needed to perform chromatography workflows, and also ensures that procedural rules and guidelines are followed accurately. These benefits are obviously important for routine analyses in quality control and compliance monitoring, but eWorkflows also help with common R&D and method development tasks, such as column scouting, gradient development, and method validation.
Console and Studio: New tools for accessing and managing instruments and data
Figure 2 - Category bars in the lower left of the Console provide instant access to instruments, data, and eWorkflows.
Figure 3 - The Data category of the Console provides a folder tree for navigation, and includes an integrated Sequence Editor that displays thumbnail images of acquired chromatograms.
The Chromeleon 7 user interface achieves operational simplicity by following specific design principles:
- Use graphics and layout design to provide natural guidance
- Keep popular functions visible and handy
- Keep specialized functions out of the way (but make them easily accessible when required)
- Keep labels and functions near their associated objects
- Use clear and consistent logic, terminology, and structures
- Make features discoverable without creating distractions.
The
software provides a balance between mainstream capabilities and
specialized functions, and between focusing on the immediate task and
creating awareness of greater possibilities.
The system’s top-level user interface, the Console, provides direct
access to instruments, data, and eWorkflows. The Instruments category (Figure 2)
displays a list of all instruments accessible to the user, and a set of
live control panels for the selected instrument is automatically
generated. Dedicated tab pages provide instant access to the Queue of
injection sequences, and to an Audit Trail listing the complete event
history for the instrument. Control panels can be detached from the
Console to monitor and control instruments while using other areas of
the Console.
The Data category of the console (Figure 3) displays a standard navigation tree. Folders can be easily organized and rearranged to fit project needs. Special icons in the tree indicate injection sequences: When one of these is selected, the full contents of the sequence are shown in the integrated Sequence Editor.