Clarity Control Module ADVANTEC CHF122SC

Importance of Integrating Advantec CHF122SC into Clarity

The integration of the Advantec CHF122SC fraction collector into the Clarity chromatography station ensures automated and reproducible fraction collection directly from analytical methods. This direct control streamlines laboratory workflows and minimizes manual intervention. Automated vial changes based on flow rate timing or detector signals improve sample handling consistency and data quality.

Objectives and Overview of the Control Module

The primary objective of the control module is to enable Clarity users to fully manage the Advantec CHF122SC via serial communication. The module captures method parameters within chromatogram metadata and supports both OEM and standard versions of the fraction collector. Key features include script based control through the DataApex UNI framework, method parameter storage, and seamless integration with the Clarity environment.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Configuration relies on an RS232 serial connection using a DB9F to DB9F cross cable and a free COM port. Initial manual setup configures the three way valve and sampling modes on the collector itself. In Clarity the UNI Ruby driver is installed via the System Configuration dialog. Users specify port settings, baud rate and instrument name in the DataApex UNI Setup.

• Fraction Table setup defines time or signal triggered collection intervals using level and slope conditions with adjustable digital filtering.
• Vial Number settings determine start vial, reset behavior and actions after the last vial is reached (waste or shutdown).
• Hardware Configuration and Device Monitor windows allow on-the-fly control commands such as Next Vial, Start and Stop Collecting and method resume.
• Data Acquisition displays real-time fraction events, color coded delays, and start/stop markers.

Key Functionalities and Discussion

The module supports multiple triggering modes including fixed intervals, detector level thresholds, slope detection and combined logic. Delay volumes compensate for tubing lengths, ensuring accurate fraction timing. Digital filtering smooths noisy data but introduces slight timing variation. Users can also override method behavior manually and resume automatic control.

Benefits and Practical Applications

This integration provides laboratories with high throughput and reproducible fractionation suitable for stress testing, preparative separations, and component isolation. Embedding control within analytical methods ensures full traceability and compliance in regulated environments. Automated vial handling reduces error risk and manual workflow interruptions.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Emerging developments include USB and network interfaces replacing legacy serial ports, cloud based monitoring dashboards, adaptive triggering through machine learning and integrated scheduling across multiple instruments. Advanced data analytics may further optimize trigger settings and vial usage in real time.

Conclusion

The Advantec CHF122SC control module for Clarity delivers a robust and flexible solution for automated fraction collection. It enhances method integration, data integrity and laboratory productivity. By leveraging Clarity’s UNI framework, the module provides a unified interface for advanced collector management.