Clarity Control Module HITACHI L6200/L6210

Significance of the Topic

The integration of Hitachi L6200/L6210 pumps into a chromatography data system is vital for modern analytical laboratories. It ensures precise gradient control, automates sample analysis, and maintains reproducibility in liquid chromatography workflows. Full computer control reduces manual intervention, minimizes errors, and streamlines high-throughput environments.

Objectives and Overview

This document describes the installation, configuration, and use of the DataApex Clarity Control Module for Hitachi L6200 and L6210 pumps. It guides users through hardware wiring, communication settings, software integration, method setup, real-time monitoring, reporting, and troubleshooting. The goal is to enable seamless, direct control of pump parameters and gradient programs from within the Clarity chromatography station.

Instrumentation Used

• Hitachi L6200 or L6210 binary/quaternary HPLC pump
• PC with Clarity chromatography software and LC Control Module
• RS-232 serial port (or MultiCOM adapter for multiple devices)
• DB9F-DB25M serial cross-wired cable (p/n SK03)

Methodology

Hardware installation and software configuration proceed as follows:

• Wire the pump to the PC using the recommended cross-wired serial cable.
• Set DIP switches on the pump’s communication board to RS-232 mode, 4800 baud, 8 data bits, 2 stop bits.
• In Clarity System Configuration, add the Hitachi L-62x0 control module, assign the COM port, and select the pump model.
• Define solvent names and gradient modes (binary, quaternary, isocratic) in the pump setup dialog.
• Create LC gradient methods by specifying time, solvent proportions, flow rates, standby and idle states.
• Enable auxiliary data (flow and pressure signals) in the Method Setup – Advanced panel.

Main Results and Discussion

Once configured, users can:

• Execute complex gradient programs directly from Clarity, with real-time adjustment of solvent ratios and flow.
• Monitor actual flow rates and system pressure via the Device Monitor window.
• Apply manual flow or composition changes mid-run using the LC Control Manual Flow interface, with audit-trail recording.
• Generate method reports including all pump parameters and instrument control settings.

The system supports safety limits on minimum and maximum pressure (0–40 MPa for L6200, 0–10 MPa for L6210) and can abort runs automatically at defined thresholds. Standby and idle modes protect columns and prevent solvent leaks when the instrument is inactive.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Enhanced reproducibility by storing gradient methods and pump states within chromatogram files.
• Improved lab efficiency via automated pump control, reducing manual steps.
• Flexible gradient management enables rapid method development and real-time changes.
• Integrated pressure monitoring safeguards hardware and samples.

Future Trends and Possibilities

As laboratories adopt Industry 4.0 strategies, further developments may include:

• Remote pump control and diagnostics via networked interfaces or cloud platforms.
• Integration with other vendor instruments through standardized communication drivers.
• Advanced predictive maintenance using continuous monitoring of pump performance parameters.

Conclusion

The DataApex Clarity Control Module for Hitachi L6200/L6210 pumps provides comprehensive, reliable control of HPLC gradients within the Clarity environment. By following the recommended installation, configuration, and method-setup procedures, laboratories can achieve robust automation, real-time monitoring, and consistent analytical results.

References

• DataApex Ltd. Hitachi L6200/L6210 Clarity Control Module Manual, Code M120/90D, Date 2024-11-13.