Clarity Control Module VICI VALCO VALVES

Importance of the Topic

Automated valve management is a cornerstone of modern chromatographic workflows. Precise and programmable switching of fluid paths enables sample preparation, column selection, fraction collection, and back‐flushing without manual intervention. Integrating valve control directly into the chromatography data system reduces error, enhances reproducibility, and streamlines complex multidimensional methods.

Study Objectives and Overview

This document describes how to configure and operate VICI Valco valves from within the DataApex Clarity control environment. It explains hardware requirements, software setup, method integration, monitoring, reporting, and diagnostic procedures. The goal is to provide a seamless, audit‐ready valve control module for liquid and gas chromatography applications.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The following elements form the basis of the integration:

• Clarity software version 4.0.3 or newer with LC (p/n A24) or GC (p/n A23) Control module.
• VICI Valco valve actuators: two‐position microelectric, multiposition microelectric, or universal actuator supporting RS-232 or USB.
• Communication interface: standard DB9F to 3-pin valve cable (DataApex p/n SK17 or VICI Valco I-22697).
• PC with available COM port or USB port using FTDI virtual COM drivers.
• Optional MultiCOM adapter (p/n MC01) for multiple RS-232 devices.

Communication is set at 9600 baud, no parity, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit. Clarity’s System Configuration dialog is used to add the VICI Valco driver, assign COM or USB port, configure valve count and naming, and map valves to specific instruments. Method Setup includes initial position, rotational direction, and event‐driven switching defined in the Event Table. Real‐time Device Monitor offers manual override when idle.

Main Results and Discussion

By following the setup procedures:

• Each valve is individually identified, tested, and its firmware version verified.
• Method‐based valve events (time, digital/analog triggers) are recorded in the audit trail and embedded in chromatographic data.
• Report templates can include valve configuration and switch logs to ensure full traceability.
• Fallback behavior (restoring initial position on run end) is configurable for safe shutdown.

The modular approach supports up to ten valves on a single actuator chain and multiple actuators per instrument.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Direct integration of VICI Valco valves into Clarity offers:

• Fully automated sample routing and fraction collection.
• On‐the‐fly method adjustments and dynamic valve sequences.
• Comprehensive event logging for regulatory compliance.
• Reduced risk of human error and improved throughput in QA/QC and R&D labs.

Future Trends and Applications

Emerging opportunities include cloud‐based valve orchestration, IoT connectivity for remote diagnostics, machine‐learning–driven valve sequencing, and integration with microfluidic and flow‐chemistry platforms. Compatibility with new digital communication standards and enhanced cybersecurity measures will further extend valve automation capabilities.

Conclusion

The VICI Valco Control Module for Clarity provides robust, flexible, and fully auditable valve management within a unified chromatography workstation. Its straightforward installation and comprehensive method integration deliver significant improvements in laboratory efficiency, data integrity, and method reproducibility.

References

No external literature references were provided in the source document.