Clarity – Ordering Guide

Significance of the topic

Proper configuration of chromatography data system software is critical for reliable instrument control, data integrity and regulatory compliance in analytical laboratories. An ordering guide simplifies the selection of compatible software versions, extensions and hardware modules, ensuring efficient workflow management and cost-effective procurement.

Objectives and overview of the guide

The main objective of the Clarity Ordering Guide is to present compatibility information for three core software packages (Clarity full version, Clarity Lite and Clarity Offline), their available upgrades, time-base extensions, data-processing modules, control modules and analog/digital converter hardware. It also provides an alphabetical list of part numbers to support distributors and end users in selecting appropriate components.

Methodology and used instrumentation

The guide structures information by software product line:

• Clarity Chromatography SW (p/n C50): multi-instrument, extensible version for regulated environments.
• Clarity Lite (p/n C40): entry-level, single-instrument solution with analog acquisition.
• Clarity Offline (p/n C59): offline data-processing only.

Each product entry details:

• Time-base extensions (Add-on Instrument SW p/n C55).
• Software modules for system suitability testing, GPC, PDA, EA, CE, NGA, DHA and MS data processing.
• Control modules for autosampler, HPLC/CE, GC and mass spectrometers.
• Compatible external A/D converters (Colibrick USB series p/n U31–U34).
• Optional upgrades for multilingual versions and major version updates.

Main results and discussion

The guide demonstrates that a single Clarity installation (C50) can control up to four instruments via configurable time-base extensions and that data-processing and control modules apply globally across all connected instruments. Practical configurations range from a basic single-instrument setup (C50 + C55 + U32) to multi-instrument arrangements incorporating multiple C55 add-ons, A/D converters and dedicated control modules. Key limitations are highlighted for low-performance PCs when controlling multiple short-cycle instruments simultaneously.

Benefits and practical applications

The structured presentation of part numbers and compatibility rules enables:

• Fast identification of required software modules and hardware interfaces.
• Streamlined procurement and configuration for regulated laboratories.
• Scalability from single-instrument entry solutions to multi-instrument enterprise installations.
• Clear upgrade paths for version and language support.

Future trends and potential applications

Emerging developments in chromatography data systems are likely to include cloud-based deployments, deeper integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), enhanced automation of method development via machine learning and expanded remote monitoring capabilities. Standardized API interfaces and IoT connectivity will further simplify instrument networking and data sharing.

Conclusion

The Clarity Ordering Guide serves as a comprehensive roadmap for selecting and configuring chromatography software and related hardware. By detailing compatibility, upgrade options and part numbers, it helps laboratories optimize system performance, maintain regulatory compliance and plan future expansions.

References

1. D004 – List of controlled instruments
2. D007 – Clarity vs Clarity Lite Comparison
3. D048 – Clarity configuration examples