Agilent OpenLab Shared Services Server v2.6 Software - Site Preparation Checklist

Importance of the topic

Proper preparation of the software environment is critical to ensure that laboratory information management systems and analytical instruments operate reliably and efficiently. By defining clear requirements for hardware, software, and network configurations, organizations can minimize installation delays, reduce troubleshooting efforts, and protect long-term instrument performance.

Objectives and Overview of the Checklist

The Agilent OpenLab Shared Services Server v2.6 Software Site Preparation Checklist is designed to guide customers through all necessary pre-installation steps. It ensures that the laboratory site meets system prerequisites, that all customer responsibilities are addressed, and that the installation process proceeds smoothly without unexpected delays.

Methodology and Instrumentation

This document adopts a structured checklist approach, dividing site preparation into key categories:

• Customer Responsibilities: verifying computing environment, electrical outlets, network and backup solutions, and availability of user and IT staff.
• Software Specifications: defining supported operating systems (Windows Server 2016/2019), database engines (MS SQL Server 2014–2019, PostgreSQL 11.5, Oracle 18c/19c), .NET Framework versions, and PDF reader requirements.
• Hardware Specifications: recommending a dedicated server with dual-core 3 GHz CPU, 12 GB RAM, 160 GB disk, and 100/1000 Mbps network interface.
• Networking: IPv4 support only, static or reserved DHCP addressing, and compatibility with ECM 3.x versions 3.5 Update 6 and 3.6.

Main Findings and Discussion

The checklist highlights the importance of installing current Windows updates and patches before beginning software installation. It recommends separate server dedication for Shared Services and emphasizes alignment with ECM licensing and language compatibility guidelines. It also provides guidance on optional services such as training, operational qualification, and application consulting.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Adherence to this site preparation guide helps laboratories achieve faster deployment of analytical data management systems, reduces risk of installation failure, and ensures that both IT and end-user teams are prepared for system operation and maintenance. It streamlines communication between customers and Agilent service engineers, leading to a more predictable project timeline.

Future trends and potential applications

As cloud-native solutions and virtualization gain traction, similar checklists may expand to include container orchestration platforms, hybrid cloud networking, and automated compliance validation. Integration with laboratory informatics ecosystems and enhanced remote installation tools will further accelerate deployment and support continuous software updates.

Conclusion

The Agilent OpenLab Shared Services Server v2.6 checklist provides a comprehensive roadmap for preparing laboratory sites for software installation. By following the defined specifications and responsibilities, customers can maximize system uptime, simplify maintenance, and fully leverage their analytical informatics investments.

References

Agilent Technologies, Inc. (2021). Agilent OpenLab Shared Services Server v2.6 Software Site Preparation Checklist, Document Number D0009021.