Sample Scheduler for OpenLab revision 2.1 - Site Preparation Checklist

Significance of the Topic

Ensuring a laboratory site is properly prepared for the Sample Scheduler for OpenLab is essential to achieve reliable, long-term operation of scheduling software integrated with chromatography data systems and LIMS. A thorough site preparation minimizes installation delays, reduces downtime, and supports consistent analytical workflows.

Study Objectives and Overview

This document serves as a comprehensive checklist and guide for customers to verify that their computing environment, network, software, hardware, and personnel resources meet or exceed the requirements for installing Sample Scheduler revision 2.1 alongside OpenLab CDS or EZChrom Edition.

Methodology and Instrumentation

A structured checklist approach defines customer responsibilities and site prerequisites including:

• Software prerequisites: OpenLab CDS 2.1 SR1 or higher, or EZChrom A.04.07 SR1/EZChrom A.04.08 Update 2 with OpenLab Server.
• Network configuration: TCP/IP access for Microsoft SQL Server (ports 1433, 6572, 7243/7244), SSL certificates for HTTPS, XML or SQL connectivity to LIMS.
• Hardware requirements: RAM allocation per role (Scheduler agent, LIMS agent, client, web interface), system time synchronization, minimum video resolution.
• User credentials: OS administrator accounts, CDS administrator, SQL database authentication, Agilent SubscribeNet license management.
• Personnel on-site: LIMS administrator, CDS experts, network or system administrator.

Key Findings and Discussion

The checklist highlights several critical factors for success:

• Aligning software versions and licensing ensures compatibility with CDS and LIMS.
• Proper SQL Server setup and open network ports are vital for data exchange and service control.
• Role-based memory sizing prevents performance bottlenecks under varying sample loads.
• Preconfigured LIMS connections and tested methods accelerate the deployment process.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Adhering to the site preparation checklist delivers:

• Reduced installation errors and project delays.
• Streamlined integration between scheduling software, CDS and LIMS.
• Enhanced sample throughput planning and resource utilization.
• Standardized deployment procedures across multiple laboratories.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Emerging developments may include:

• Cloud-hosted scheduling services for scalable infrastructure.
• AI-driven predictive scheduling to optimize instrument usage.
• Web and mobile interfaces for real-time monitoring and control.
• Deeper integration with laboratory digitalization platforms, IoT devices and automated workflows.

Conclusion

A meticulous site preparation process based on this checklist establishes a solid foundation for the successful installation and operation of Sample Scheduler for OpenLab. By validating hardware, software, network and personnel readiness, laboratories can achieve reliable scheduling, seamless system integration and improved analytical productivity.