Agilent Advanced Sample Linking

Significance of the Topic

The integration of sample tracking from the initial laboratory information management system (LIMS) registration through high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis addresses common challenges of manual workflows: time loss, human error and data integrity issues. By automating barcode-based sample linking and scheduling, laboratories can achieve consistent traceability, higher throughput and error-free data reporting.

Objectives and Study Overview

This white paper demonstrates a complete, closed-loop workflow that connects any LIMS to barcoded vials and analytical results. The goal is to illustrate how Agilent’s Sample Linking and Sample Scheduler software, together with the InfinityLab Sample ID Reader, enable an end-to-end process from sample registration to final report, improving efficiency and reducing manual steps.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The workflow proceeds in these key steps:

• Sample registration in LIMS, with unique identifiers generated for each sample.
• Task assignment in Sample Scheduler for OpenLab and application of predefined acquisition and processing templates.
• Stepwise transfer of sample containers into pre-barcoded vials using the Sample Linking software and benchtop barcode reader.
• Random placement of vials in the Infinity III Multisampler tray; automatic position recognition by the integrated InfinityLab Sample ID Reader.
• Sequence execution in OpenLab CDS Acquisition, data acquisition, automated data analysis and report generation in OpenLab Data Analysis.

Instrumentation and key software components:

• Agilent Infinity III LC series (including 1260 and 1290 Infinity III Multisamplers)
• InfinityLab Sample ID Reader (integrated barcode reader)
• Agilent Sample Linking software
• Agilent Sample Scheduler for OpenLab
• OpenLab CDS Acquisition and Data Analysis software
• Benchtop and handheld barcode scanners
• Pre-barcoded vials, caps, sample trays

Key Results and Discussion

Implementation of the integrated workflow demonstrated reliable automatic recognition of vial positions, elimination of manual position entry and robust tracking of sample transfer steps. The system prevented unintended sample injections by validating scanned barcodes against the expected sequence. Color-coded status indicators provided real-time monitoring of sequence progress.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Time savings through elimination of manual data entry and vial mapping.
• Reduced risk of sample mix-ups by barcode verification at each step.
• Enhanced user guidance via intuitive software interfaces and status tracking.
• Seamless integration with existing LIMS and analytical methods.
• Scalability for high-throughput laboratories and regulated environments.

Future Trends and Applications

Advances in laboratory automation and digitalization will drive further integration of sample tracking, instrument control and data management. Cloud-based LIMS connectivity, expanded support for diverse analytical platforms and artificial intelligence–enabled decision support are emerging trends. The strategy of barcode-linked, server-driven workflows can be extended to sample prep robots, mass spectrometry or multi-omics applications.

Conclusion

By leveraging Agilent’s Sample Linking and Sample Scheduler software with integrated barcode reading, laboratories can achieve a seamless, error-free path from LIMS to final HPLC report. This closed-loop solution enhances productivity, compliance and data integrity in routine and high-throughput analyses.

References

1. Confirmation of Sample Position – Using the Agilent 1290 Infinity III Multisampler with Agilent InfinityLab Sample ID Reader – Part 1 of 2, Agilent Technologies technical overview, publication number 5994-7568EN, 2024.
2. Sample Position Identification and Measurement Confirmation – Using the Agilent 1290 Infinity III Multisampler with Agilent InfinityLab Sample ID Reader – Part 2 of 2, Agilent Technologies technical overview, publication number 5994-7569EN, 2024.