OpenLab CDS EZChrom A.04.09 Distributed System AIC's and CDS Clients – Site Preparation Checklist

Importance of the Topic

Proper site preparation for laboratory software and instrument systems is critical to ensure reliable operation, minimize installation delays, and extend equipment lifespan. By defining clear hardware, software, network, and environmental requirements, laboratories can avoid integration issues, reduce downtime, and uphold data integrity and compliance standards.

Objectives and Study Overview

This document provides a comprehensive checklist for preparing a site for the Agilent OpenLab CDS EZChrom A.04.09 distributed system, covering both Agilent Instrument Controllers (AICs) and CDS Client workstations. It aims to guide customers through necessary steps and resources to achieve a smooth, on-schedule software installation and initial setup.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The checklist is structured as a series of customer responsibilities and detailed specifications. Key steps include:

• Running the Software Site Preparation Tool to verify hardware and software prerequisites.
• Using the Network Assessment Tool to confirm network readiness for OpenLab CDS connectivity.
• Reviewing instrument compatibility guides and firmware upgrade needs.
• Ensuring domain and trust relationships for distributed systems.

Used Instrumentation

The primary system is the Agilent OpenLab CDS EZChrom A.04.09 Distributed System, which consists of:

• Agilent Instrument Controllers (physical or VMware vSphere virtual machines).
• CDS Client workstations (physical or virtual) with Remote Desktop Services or Citrix support.
• Software Site Preparation Tool and Network Assessment Tool as diagnostic utilities.

Main Results and Discussion

Detailed requirements include:

• Supported operating systems: Windows 7 SP1, Windows 10 (versions 1703–1803), Windows Server 2012 R2, and Windows Server 2016.
• .NET Framework 3.5 SP1 and .NET 4.7.1 installed and enabled.
• Hardware: dual-core 3 GHz CPU, minimum 4 GB RAM, 160 GB storage, DVD drive, USB support, dual LAN for AICs, single LAN for clients.
• Network: IPv4 only, same subnet communication, static IP or DHCP reservation, no NIC teaming on AICs.
• Language and locale: English US OS, Western European; non-localized drivers on Chinese, Japanese, Brazilian Portuguese OS.
• Privileges: domain user with local Administrator rights, domain controller for distributed setups.
• Security: antivirus recommended, Windows updates and critical patches applied before installation.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Implementing these guidelines helps laboratories achieve predictable installation timelines, reduce post-installation troubleshooting, and ensure secure and compliant operation of chromatography data systems. Standardized preparation fosters efficient training, maintenance, and system upgrades.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Emerging developments may include broader support for cloud-based deployments, containerized instrument controllers, enhanced automation of site-prep diagnostics, and tighter integration with network security platforms. Virtualization advancements and remote management tools will further streamline installations and updates.

Conclusion

This site preparation checklist for the Agilent OpenLab CDS EZChrom A.04.09 distributed system offers a structured approach to meeting hardware, software, and network prerequisites. Adhering to these recommendations ensures a reliable installation, optimizes system performance, and paves the way for future scalability and innovation.