Agilent OpenLab CDS v2.3 – Adding Client to Existing System - Site Preparation Checklist

Importance of the Topic

Proper site preparation is essential for reliable installation and long-term operation of chromatography data systems. By verifying hardware, software and network readiness in advance, laboratories can minimize downtime, prevent configuration errors and ensure data integrity from day one.

Objectives and Overview

This checklist aims to guide customers through all prerequisites required to add an OpenLab CDS v2.3 Client to an existing system. It covers responsibilities, environmental requirements, software and hardware specifications, network configuration, and optional services for a smooth and timely deployment.

Methodology and Used Instrumentation

The approach consists of a step-by-step verification of:

• Computing environment and available space
• Electrical outlet planning for computers and peripherals
• Software licensing, authorization codes and backup strategies
• Availability of installation media and updates
• Network and domain administrator support for intranet connectivity

The checklist breaks down into sections on software, hardware, networking and virtualization requirements.

Main Recommendations and Discussion

Software Specifications
OpenLab CDS v2.3 Clients require Windows 7 SP1 or Windows 10 (64-bit), or Windows Server 2012 R2. The .NET Framework 3.5 SP1 and .NET 4.5.1+ must be enabled. English is the only supported interface, though the system can run on Western European, Chinese, Japanese or Brazilian Portuguese OS locales with instrument drivers always in English. Internet Explorer 11 or Chrome 40+ is recommended as default browsers.

Hardware Specifications
Recommended client hardware includes a quad-core Intel i5/i7/Xeon E3 CPU at 3.0 GHz+, 8 GB RAM, 500 GB SATA or equivalent SSD, a minimum 1600×900 display (1920×1080 preferred), one USB port and 100 Mb/1 Gb LAN. For data traffic isolation, a second network interface is advised.

Networking Specifications
All machines and instrument controllers must reside within the same IPv4 domain or have proper cross-domain trusts. DNS must resolve IPv4 addresses of controllers and instruments. IPv6 is unsupported and must be disabled.

Virtualization Support
OpenLab CDS Clients are validated on Citrix XenApp 7.8/7.15, VMware vSphere 5.x, RDS on Windows Server 2012 R2 and Hyper-V. Resource allocations mirror physical machine requirements. Note a port conflict on 27000 between Citrix and the Agilent License Manager.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Adhering to the checklist reduces installation delays, avoids configuration conflicts and ensures compliance with IT policies. It supports uninterrupted data acquisition, efficient laboratory workflows and simplifies future upgrades or scaling across multiple client stations.

Future Trends and Possibilities

Emerging trends include cloud-based CDS deployments, containerized installations for greater portability, and enhanced automation of site preparation via scripts or dedicated utilities. Integration with software-defined networks and advanced security tools will further streamline client rollout and maintenance.

Conclusion

A thorough site preparation process is the cornerstone of a successful OpenLab CDS v2.3 Client installation. By systematically addressing software, hardware and networking prerequisites, laboratories can achieve reliable performance, maximize uptime and simplify ongoing support.

References

Agilent Technologies. OpenLab CDS v2.3 – Adding Client to Existing System: Site Preparation Checklist. Issued 22-May-2018.