Clarity Hardware NET-PAD

Importance of the Topic

Modern laboratories demand flexible and high-resolution data acquisition from chromatographic detectors. Network-connected A/D converters enable remote instrument control, simplified wiring and integration of multiple detectors in a single software environment. The Net-PAD converter addresses these needs by providing Ethernet-based data capture, digital I/O for synchronization and best-in-class resolution for accurate signal processing.

Objectives and Study Overview

This document describes the DataApex Net-PAD hardware and its integration with Clarity chromatography software. Key goals are to explain system requirements, installation steps, network configuration and software setup. The manual guides users through connecting detectors, configuring digital inputs/outputs, and troubleshooting common issues to ensure reliable operation in routine and multi-instrument analyses.

Methodology and Instrumentation Used

The Net-PAD is a standalone 24-bit sigma-delta A/D converter with two isolated analog channels. Signals from GC, HPLC or other detectors are routed via standard INT7 cables. Ethernet TCP/IP is used for communication with the host PC, supporting static IP or reserved DHCP addresses. Clarity software version 2.7 or later on Windows 7–11 handles data acquisition, device monitoring and event-driven control.

Instrumentation Used

• Net-PAD Ethernet A/D converter (2 channels, 24-bit resolution)
• INT7 standard cables for detector signals and digital I/O
• Clarity Chromatography Station software with Net-PAD module
• Optional COM-port control of autosamplers or valves via RS232

Key Results and Discussion

The Net-PAD delivers high-precision measurement ranges of 156 mV, 1 250 mV and 12 585 mV, with selectable sampling rates up to 120 Hz depending on mains-frequency filtering. Digital inputs (TTL, opto-isolated) support external start/stop modes with minimal latency, while eight TTL outputs (four relay contacts) enable synchronized control of auxiliary devices. Network setup offers automatic UDP discovery or manual IP assignment, with firewall and gateway considerations detailed to guarantee uninterrupted data flow. The integrated Clarity dialogs allow unit conversion, signal inversion, event table control and live device monitoring.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Centralized multi-detector acquisition across LAN, reducing cabling complexity in larger labs
• High dynamic range and resolution facilitate accurate quantification of both small and large peaks
• Digital I/O and event tables enable precise timing for autosampler triggering and valve switching
• Scalable integration of up to four Net-PAD units in one software environment
• Remote access to data acquisition and device monitoring improves workflow efficiency

Future Trends and Possibilities

As laboratories move toward Industry 4.0 and cloud connectivity, future Net-PAD iterations may include built-in web servers, encrypted data transfer and integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS). Higher sampling rates, enhanced digital filtering and mobile monitoring apps will further streamline remote diagnostics and predictive maintenance of chromatographic setups.

Conclusion

The DataApex Net-PAD provides a robust solution for Ethernet-based chromatographic data acquisition with high resolution, flexible digital I/O and seamless integration into the Clarity software platform. Its clear installation procedures, comprehensive configuration options and reliable network operation make it a valuable asset for modern analytical laboratories.

References

No external literature references were listed in the original manual.