Installation instruction for ProfIC Vario 1 UV/VIS

Importance of the topic

The installation of an ion chromatography system equipped with UV/VIS detection is a critical step to ensure accurate, reproducible and reliable analyses of UV-active compounds across routine and specialized applications. Proper assembly, configuration and validation not only safeguard instrument performance but also streamline daily laboratory workflows, enabling high-throughput sample processing and robust data quality.

Aims and overview

This installation bulletin provides detailed instructions for assembling, configuring and validating the ProfIC Vario 1 UV/VIS system. It covers software setup, hardware integration of the Professional IC Vario, UV/VIS detector and sample processor, system interconnections and MagIC Net method configuration. An exemplary measurement demonstrates system performance in seawater analysis.

Methodology

The recommended stepwise procedure includes:

1. Software installation: Deploy MagIC Net 3.0, install drivers and register instruments.
2. Hardware assembly: Mount the Vario IC, attach the UV/VIS detector, install the sample processor and accessory kits (Vario/Flex Basic and ONE).
3. Device interconnection: Route eluent, column, detector and sample lines with PTFE or PEEK capillaries, install leak sensor and waste collectors.
4. MagIC Net configuration: Define instruments, columns, eluents and sample racks; set method parameters and detection channels.
5. System purge and equilibration: Flush lines and precolumn, remove air bubbles and stabilize baseline.
6. Method validation: Perform calibration with nitrite, bromide and nitrate standards in a seawater matrix.

Instrumentation used

• 940 Professional IC Vario ONE
• 944 Professional UV/VIS Detector Vario
• 858 Professional Sample Processor
• MagIC Net 3.0 software
• Accessory Kit Vario/Flex Basic and ONE
• Liquid Handling Station (LQH Station)
• 941 Eluent Production Module

Main results and discussion

Calibration for nitrite (0.05–5 mg/L), bromide (0.5–20 mg/L) and nitrate (10–120 mg/L) in 28 g/L NaCl matrix exhibited excellent linearity (r≥0.9999) and low relative standard deviations (≤1.7%). The UV/VIS detector channels provided stable baselines and precise retention time repeatability. The system configuration enabled efficient sample throughput and minimal carry-over through counter-current sample injection and effective needle rinsing.

Benefits and practical applications

• Fully automated workflow from sample aspiration to detection.
• Integrated UV/VIS detection for selective monitoring of absorbent analytes.
• Flexible accessory modules support in situ dilution, needle rinsing and on-line eluent generation.
• Robust MagIC Net control ensures method reproducibility and data integrity.
• Suitable for environmental, food, pharmaceutical and industrial quality control analyses.

Future trends and opportunities

Advancements in ion chromatography may focus on increased automation through robotics, enhanced integration with mass spectrometry, real-time remote monitoring via digital platforms and AI-assisted method optimization. Further development of inline dilution systems and the expanded use of eluent production modules will reduce manual intervention and improve reagent sustainability.

Conclusion

A systematic installation and configuration of the ProfIC Vario 1 UV/VIS system ensures reliable performance for UV-active ion analyses. By following the detailed steps for hardware assembly, software setup and method validation, laboratories can achieve high precision, reproducibility and throughput in routine and specialized applications.

References

• Application Bulletin 362, Installation instructions for ProfIC Vario 1 UV/VIS, Metrohm.