Working with User Variables in Clarity Chromatography Software

Introduction

User variables in Clarity Chromatography Software allow analysts to add custom parameters to chromatograms, which can then be applied in tailored calculations and reports. This article explains how to define and manage these variables, where they can be accessed, and how to effectively use them within methods, single analyses, and sequences.

Types of User Variables in Clarity

Clarity provides two distinct sets of user variables:

1. Method User Variables
   • Defined within a chromatographic method.
   • Apply to all chromatograms measured with that method.
2. Analysis User Variables
   • Defined for a single analysis or sequence.
   • Apply only to specific runs, allowing flexible annotation or parameterization.

Defining Method User Variables

1. Open the desired method in Clarity.
2. Navigate to the Advanced tab.
3. In the Method User Variables section, three fields are available to assign names and values.
4. Enter the required parameters and save the method.
5. These values will now automatically appear in all chromatograms measured with this method.

Defining Analysis User Variables

Single Analysis

1. Open the Single Analysis dialog.
2. Go to the User Variables section.
3. Enter names and values as needed.

Sequence

1. In the Sequence window, the variable columns are hidden by default.
2. Right-click anywhere in the table and select Setup Columns.
3. Locate Analysis User Variables 1–3 in the list.
4. Rename them if necessary and move them to the Shown section.
5. Confirm with OK. The variable columns will now be visible and editable directly within the sequence table.

Viewing and Editing Variables in a Chromatogram

When a chromatogram is acquired with both method-defined and analysis-defined variables, both sets will be stored together.

Within the chromatogram window you can:

• View the current variables,
• Edit them if adjustments are needed,
• Apply them in user column calculations.

Using User Variables in Calculations

User variables can be directly included in custom calculation columns, offering the following advantages:

• Adding project-specific metadata to results,
• Storing supplementary parameters directly within chromatograms,
• Automating calculations dependent on user-defined values.

This capability significantly enhances reporting flexibility and analytical reproducibility.

Conclusion

User variables in Clarity provide a powerful way to enrich chromatographic data with additional, customizable parameters. By setting them at the method, analysis, or sequence level, analysts can streamline workflows, improve traceability, and adapt calculations to project-specific requirements. Proper use of these variables enables more efficient data management and reporting in chromatography laboratories.