Agilent 7100 Capillary Electrophoresis System controlled by Agilent Drivers for Chromeleon

Importance of the Topic

Capillary electrophoresis (CE) is a high-efficiency separation technique widely used in pharmaceutical, biochemical and environmental laboratories. Integrating CE instruments into modern chromatography data systems (CDS) enhances workflow automation, data consistency and regulatory compliance. This integration streamlines instrument control, method development and data processing, making CE more accessible in day-to-day quality control and research applications.

Objectives and Study Overview

This technical note presents a step-by-step guide for configuring and operating the Agilent 7100 Capillary Electrophoresis System within Thermo Scientific Chromeleon 7 using Agilent Drivers for Chromeleon (ADC). Key aims include ensuring accurate instrument-to-software communication, enabling direct control features, and highlighting known limitations to inform users of potential workarounds.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The configuration relies on ADC version 3.0 or higher and Chromeleon 7.2.10 MUf (or higher). After installing ADC on the control PC, the CE unit is connected via LAN, assigned a static IP (default 192.168.254.11) and powered on. In the Chromeleon Instrument Configuration Manager, the 7100 CE module and its Diode Array Detector (DAD) are added under Agilent Drivers for Thermo Chromeleon. Auto-configuration populates communication parameters; manual mapping is necessary for the CE1_Leak_Current signal if monitoring leak current.

Used Instrumentation

• Agilent 7100 Capillary Electrophoresis System with integrated DAD
• Agilent Drivers for Chromeleon (ADC) version 3.0 or higher
• Thermo Scientific Chromeleon CDS 7.2.10 MUf, 7.3.1, 7.3.2 or later
• Standard LAN infrastructure for instrument networking

Main Results and Discussion

Once configured, the CE Status Dashboard provides real-time status and direct control of all instrument modules, such as lamp ignition, capillary flushing, voltage application and vial handling. Instrument methods are created using the Chromeleon Instrument Method Wizard, which consolidates CE and DAD parameters, as well as optional pump settings. Injection is defined by pressure×time or voltage×time rather than nominal volume. Additional controls enable external pressure operation for capillary electrochromatography. Known limitations include lack of a capillary catalog, sample diagram, vial table and certain calibration curve options (e.g., cIEF correction). Direct actions are not logged in menus outside the status dashboard, and some run-time updates must be manually verified.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Integrating the Agilent 7100 CE with Chromeleon delivers:

• Centralized method development and sequence management alongside HPLC/GC workflows
• Direct instrument control and status monitoring within the CDS interface
• Automated data processing tools for peak integration and concentration calculations
• Support for advanced CE techniques (cIEF, CEC, micellar electrokinetic chromatography) and external pressure applications

Future Trends and Applications

Advancements may include deeper integration with mass spectrometry modules, enhanced automation through scripting APIs, improved firmware interoperability, and virtual instrument models for training. Development of capillary libraries and richer calibration tools within the CDS would further streamline method transfer and regulatory documentation.

Conclusion

The Agilent 7100 CE System, when controlled via Agilent Drivers in Chromeleon 7, offers a robust platform for CE analyses in regulated and research environments. Its integration enhances operational efficiency, data integrity and method versatility, despite minor limitations. Adopting this workflow supports seamless expansion of CE capabilities alongside established chromatographic techniques.