Category:Chronos

From LEAP

	Chronos Scheduling Software
	Application Type
	Software
	Application ID
	Description
	Chronos Scheduling Software

Contents 1 Chronos Scheduling Software Overview 2 Key Benefits and Functionality 3 Examples of Applications 4 Specifications 5 Other Reference Material 6 Other Reference Material 7 Videos of PAL 8 Contact LEAP

Chronos Scheduling Software Overview

Most chromatographic or spectrometric investigation processes in the area of instrumental analysis are characterized by the use of autosamplers. The purpose of automation is to increase throughput without the need for additional personnel. Up to now, the samples have been worked through automatically in sequence. This means that with conventional machine control systems, waiting times frequently occur due to sample preparation during which the chromatographs are not used, offering considerable potential for throughput optimization. And it is precisely this potential which is utilized by the new Chronos software. Chronos increases the active measuring time of the machines and therefore considerably raises the efficiency of the laboratory.

The new Chronos software organizes parallel processes for sample preparation. This utilities the analysis system to a much greater extent, while observing the time margins of each individual sample preparation. To this is added further strengths of the software: a user-friendly interface minimizes the number of parameters which need to be changed depending on context. The relevant values are recorded in tabular form and can be changed by the user, which means that a complete sample list can be generated conveniently in only a few steps. Fixed parameters can be changed as needed in the method editor.

A graphic representation of the sample processing is created at the touch of a button, which means that overall duration and current progress can be followed in real time. Multi-stage sample preparation procedures can be parallelized by means of an integrated algorithm. Here also, it is possible to call up a graphic representation of the sequence of events. Chronos also combines the sample list for the autosampler control with the data system list, so that the user only has to administrate one list. This simplifies handling and avoids errors which could be caused by confusing different items.

Chronos is supplied as standard with ready-made modules for the usual analysis procedures; this includes headspace, liquid injection, SPME and other standardized methods such as for example hydrocarbon determination according to DIN H53. If required, the user can generate modules in Chronos adapted to his own needs. PAL series autosamplers from the company CTC Analytics and LEAP Technologies are currently supported.

Xcalibur from Thermo Scientific and ChemStation from Agilent are also integrated. Linking of further data systems is in process.

Axel Semrau® has developed this software in cooperation with the University of Bochum. The combination of professional programmers and IT specialists with experienced chemists who have close contact with customers is a guarantee for a practical solution of the very highest quality.

Key Benefits and Functionality

• Chronos not only exchanges information with other systems, but also controls complete processes and optimizes intelligent time-management resulting in significant improvement in system throughput
• Single Sample List Control - includes Twin Pal
• Import and export of sequences in ChemStation and Xcalibur or CVS format
• Support for liner exchange in a ATAS Linex system
• Programming of Valco valves over a serial interface
• Management of multiple sample lists
• Management of priority samples
• Call up external programs for data interpretation from within the method
• Reading of gravimetric data from a Mettler balance
• Support for dilutors for sample dilutions
• Support for SPME fiber changer
• Support for ITEX functions
• Control of multiple PALs

Examples of Applications

GC and GC/MS

• Headspace
• SPME
• ITEX-2
• Derivatization
• Automatic H53-extraction

Specifications

Applicable Chromatography and MS Data Systems at this time from LEAP Technologies

Data System Integration Support:

• NEW* ChromPerfect version 6
• NEW* Empower 2
• NEW* DataApex Clarity 3.0
• NEW* EZChrom 3.2.x and 3.3.x (requires runtime license)
• NEW* Thermo QuanLab Forms 2.5.0, 2.5.2, 3.0, and 3.1
• Chemstation (LC‐GC and MSD) – most versions
• Xcalibur – support through version 2.1
• Analyst 1.4, 1.5
• Support for Falcon Calidus GC utilizing Chronos 3.1 and ChromPerfect 6
• CTC PAL Samplers
• HTS, HTC, Twin PAL,CombiPAL, GC PAL

The simultaneous control of multiple PAL's or a Twin PAL can be realized with Chronos

System requirements: Minimum Pentium III, 1.3 GHz, Windows XP, Windows Vista; for each PAL 1 serial port (RS 232) or over network

Chronos is a new Software for the PAL System and it offers efficient automation of complex sample preparation procedures using CTC PAL Autosampler. It increases the throughput of the analytical system based on intelligent time management.

Some important features of the Chronos S/W :

• Intelligent time management of the PAL (Overlapping or prep ahead)
• Import and export of sequences in ChemStation and Xcalibur or cvs-format
• Control of multiple PALs
• Support for liner exchange in a ATAS Linex system
• Programmability of Valco valves over a serial interface
• Management of priority samples

New Features:

• Support for adding Priority Samples mid schedule.
• Syringe Testing before schedule starts
• Thermo Variomag magnetic stirrer support
• User Defined menu items (can run external programs from within Chronos)
• Live timetable shows DONE column
• Prompts to save methods or sample lists
• Read Data from file
• Repeat Loops
• Chronos can be started from command line with sample list

Chronos optimizes the complex work flows of the CTC PAL and reduces waiting times of all components in GC(-MS) systems. This is possible because Chronos through its intelligent algorithms allows parallel handling of multiple samples without compromising precision and accuracy of the final results. This replaces the usual concept of serially processing samples. Chronos introduces an innovative way to enter the world of parallel, staggered sample centric work flow that raises efficiencies significantly.

Other Reference Material

Chronos Brochure

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Other Reference Material

Chronos Brochure



Chronos Mastersoftware is an ideal solution for automating complex sample preparation steps on the CTC PAL. Software Integration with data systems such as ChemStation™ or Xcalibur™ assures seamless functionality with existing systems. Chronos not only exchanges information with other systems, but also controls complete processes and optimizes individual work steps with intelligent time-management resulting in significant improvement of system throughput.

Videos of PAL

LEAP's PAL Application Videos on YouTube

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LEAP Technologies provides fully automated sample processing workstation instrumentation solutions based on the LEAP CTC PAL X, Y, Z syringe only autosampler robot. This extremely flexible, precise, and adaptable liquid handling robotic platform is available in a variety of lengths and options depending on the requirements of your sample preparation and injections for your UHPLC, LC or GC chromatography. LEAP also offers process control systems and stand alone workstations. LEAP is an open, neutral resource for technical support of existing PAL. Keep your PAL in peak working order LEAP offers full support and service for the PAL platform with over 11 years of history with the PAL. LEAP can also write custom macros, cycles, and scheduling software for your specific applications. We're proud that LEAP is known as a productivity improver for laboratories including government labs in agencies such as FDA, USDA, EPA, FBI, Armed Forces, Homeland Security and others function more efficiently. Robotic sample prep equipment works well in government labs and challenges lab technicians to keep feeding those more samples. Analytical equipment such as chromatographs and mass spectrometers are expensive devices and also expensive to maintain. LEAP can help to keep them running and analyze samples around the clock. LEAP has most of its laboratory automation robots under GSAcontract and is eager to service and maintain everything it sells to keep your expensive lab equipment running around the clock. CTC Analytics Combi PAL and HTS PAL for Front-End Automation for LC and GC applications. LEAP offers customized on-site training. LEAP Is continuing to develop FAQ, Solutions, Tips & Techniques,a Learning Center with the LEAP Wiki for the benefit of all PAL Platform Robotic users. We will continue exceeding customer expectations for quality, cost effective and efficient results using the most current technology and expertise in our industry. Our aim is to be the ultimate knowledge base on everything related to the PAL. LEAP is known as the autosamplerguys being in business over twenty years. LEAP has extensive multi-vendor experience with integrating the PAL. HTX, HTS, HTC, HTX-xt, HTS-xt, HTC-xt, LC-Mini, Combi PAL,COMBI-xt PAL, and GC PAL models. We have the Quality, Training, Parts availability, Infrastructure, and Experience.LEAP is sometimes referred to as an Application Automation House who is continually adding new products and solutions to its Lab Automation line. As we do so we change the content of this web site so please check back.
Please contact LEAP Technologies on how we can help you get maximized throughput with flexible pipetting automation solutions whether it is our standard applications or customized to your needs. The Combi-xt PAL autosampler is able to perform liquid and headspace analysis. Headspace options include Solid Phase Micro-extraction (SPME) and ITEX-2 as alternative to purge and trap. The HTS-xt PAL autosampler dramatically increases sample throughput by offering automated sample prep, Peltier cooled and heated sample storage using the cooled stack, Peltier cooled and heated sample storage using the cooled stack and low carryover due to the self-cleaning DLW (Dynamic Load and Wash) module and L-Mark syringes, peltier cooled valves and columns. LEAP provides automation that fits your needs and reduces errors, increases sample capacity, increases efficiency, reduces cost by supplying long term productivity improvements with user friendly software and flexible hardware. LEAP performs just in time or on time sample prep and inject. LEAP offers full support of integrated and non-integrated PAL software with both sales and support for Cruise Control, Cycle Composer and Cycle Composer Macro Editor, Agilent ChemStation CTC Control, Mass Hunter and EZChrom CTC integration, Xcalibur, Waters Masslynx or Analyst CTC Control software, Thermo (Finnegan) XCalibur, LEAP Shell, and Chronos software. The PAL is more than just an autosampler, it is a high-quality and efficient laboratory robot platform that can be customized by LEAP Technologies to meet your specific needs.

Contact LEAP

Contact LEAP For additional information about LEAP and the PAL Platform, please contact LEAP Technologies.

The information and references contained in this web site are believed to be accurate and the most current information available.

'Keywords:' SOFTWAREChronos Version 3.0 Mastersoftware for all CTC Sample Handlers Chronos Mastersoftware is an ideal solution for automating complex sample preparation steps on the CTC PAL. Software Integration with data systems such as ChemStation™ or Xcalibur™ assures seamless functionality with existing systems. Chronos not only exchanges information with other systems, but also controls complete processes and optimizes individual work steps with intelligent time-management resulting in significant improvement of system throughput. AXEL SEMRAU® SOFTWAREChronos Version 3.0 Mastersoftware for all CTC Sample Handlers Chronos Mastersoftware is an ideal solution for automating complex sample preparation steps on the CTC PAL. Software Integration with data systems such as ChemStation™ or Xcalibur™ assures seamless functionality with existing systems. Chronos not only exchanges information with other systems, but also controls complete processes and optimizes individual work steps with intelligent time-management resulting in significant improvement of system throughput. AXEL SEMRAU® Time is money! In most analytical labs expensive detectors and analyzers wait for elaborate sample preparations. The consequence is long waiting periods between samples. Chronos provides optimization work that pays off. The software pack- age is compatible with practically all systems using CTC PALs and controls sampler and detection devices. Chronos for Sampler and Analytical System Timing optimization with staggering by Chronos SP1 SP1 Sequence of Analysis when analysis is complex -without Chronos GC/LC- MS GC/LC- MS Time SP1 GC/LC- MS SP1 SP1 SP1 Sequence of Analysis when analysis is complex -with Chronos GC/LC- MS GC/LC- MS GC/LC- MS Time Time is money! In most analytical labs expensive detectors and analyzers wait for elaborate sample preparations. The consequence is long waiting periods between samples. Chronos provides optimization work that pays off. The software pack- age is compatible with practically all systems using CTC PALs and controls sampler and detection devices. Chronos for Sampler and Analytical System Timing optimization with staggering by Chronos SP1 SP1 Sequence of Analysis when analysis is complex -without Chronos GC/LC- MS GC/LC- MS Time SP1 GC/LC- MS SP1 SP1 SP1 Sequence of Analysis when analysis is complex -with Chronos GC/LC- MS GC/LC- MS GC/LC- MS Time Automation

New trends in chromatography such as Fast-GC and UHPLC lead to shorter and shorter run times. Simultaneously, more and more sample prep tasks are migrating to the sample handlers. Today simple liquid sample injections or headspace analysis are complemented more often with dilutions, standard additions, derivatizations, SPE process and others.

For this reason many GC-, GC/ MS- and LC/MS systems are inefficient because of standstill and waiting periods. The analytical process traditionally works serially where the run time has to be complete before the next sample can be prepared. The detector system has then to wait for the sample prep steps to be completed.

Exactly in those instances Chronos goes to work. Chronos optimizes as Mastersoftware the interaction of sampler and detector system by staggering events (see graph above!) The result is a maximal load factor for each component in the system and significant time savings or throughput increase.

Chronos

Open Software

Chronos controls the sampler and the MS-Data system as with ChemStation and Xcalibur from one sample list. The sample list is freely configurable and it can be saved as xmldatabase. The sample list can be imported from any LIMS system and can be exported to a sample list for post processing of analytical data.

Chronos-Methods provide maximal flexibility. All features of the CTC PAL can be implemented. Complex sample prep steps can be programmed with ease in a simple series of sub-steps. Standardization of all sample lists makes operation simpler for the end-users.

Time Savings with Chronos

A run time reduction of up to 70 % is not unusual. The time saved depends on acquisition time, sampling time and number of samples in a sequence but Chronos can calculate accurately time saved.

Visualization of sample sequence

After submitting the sample list Chronos will automatically calculate the optimized schedule for the run times. The result of this calculation will be displayed graphically (see fig. below!).The actual status will always be displayed either in form of the graph or in a table. During the run time a log file can be created and saved for later review.

Schedule for seven samples in a headspace GC-MS analysis using CombiPAL

Maximum Flexibility Method Editor With Chronos, methods can be pre- pared in a straightforward simple way by using prepared “Tasks”. The sample list can be created with the method editor in a flexible but still simple way. Subsequently it can be passed on to the analytical system. Chronos Maximum Flexibility Method Editor With Chronos, methods can be pre- pared in a straightforward simple way by using prepared “Tasks”. The sample list can be created with the method editor in a flexible but still simple way. Subsequently it can be passed on to the analytical system. Chronos Examples of

All encompassing

.Import and export of se- quences in ChemStation and Xcalibur or cvs-format .Control of multiple PALs .Support of Dual PAL systems .Support for liner exchange in a ATAS Linex system .programmability of Valco valves over a serial interface .customizable sample list for easy user interface adjust- ments .management of multiple sample lists .management of priority samples .call up external programs for data interpretation from within the method .reading of gravimetric data from a Mettler balance .support for Gilson dilutors for sample dilutions .support for SPME fiber changer .support for ITEX-2 functions .support of 2D bar code reader .ability to send SMS mes- sages .control of peristaltic pumps for liquid handling Applications

functionality

GC and GC/MS .Headspace .SPME .ITEX-2 .Derivatization .automatic H53-extraction .on-line SPE .Dual PAL applications HPLC and LC/MS .multi-dimensional chromatog- raphy .matrix separation using SPE .derivatizing with fluores- cence tags .fast separation of active in- gredient in pharma research Summary Conclusions Chronos optimizes the com- plex work flows of the sample handler (CTC PAL) and reduces waiting times of all components in GC(-MS) or LC(-MS) sys- tems. This is possible because Chronos through its intelligent algorithms affects parallel handling of multiple samples without compromising preci- sion and accuracy of the final results. This replaces the usual concept of serially processing of samples. Chronos introduces an innovative way to enter the world of parallel, staggered sample centric work flow that raises efficiencies significantly. Specifications

Applicable Chromatography and MS Data Systems .Xcalibur 1.4, 2.0, LC, GC .GC/LC/MSD ChemStation .ChromPerfect 5.5.6 .Integration of ATAS Evolu tion Software for the optic injector .Integration of EZChrom (planned) .Integration of Analyst CTC PAL Samplers: HTS PAL, HTC PAL, TWIN PAL, CombiPAL, GC PAL The simultaneous control of multiple PALs, a Twin PAL or a Dual PAL can be realized with Chronos. System requirements: Minimum Pentium III, 1,3 GHz, Windows XP, Windows Vista. For each PAL 1 serial port (RS 232) or over network

SOFTWARE SOFTWAREwww.axel-semrau.de Axel Semrau® is one of the largest Trade and Service Organization in Germany engaged in analytical instrumentation. For 30 Years Axel Semrau® sells and supports specialized solutions for chromatography and mass spectrometry with a steadily growing staff. Besides analytical systems for LC and GC Axel Semrau® has an expanding line of its own products in lab information management systems and Odor applicator control for the natural gas industry. A competent team of analytical chemists, informatics specialist and software engineers develops in close cooperation with end-users new products such as Chronos to improve efficient processes in the laboratory. Axel Semrau GmbH & Co. KG Stefansbecke 42, 45549 Sprockhövel, Germany Telefon +49 2339/1209-0, Fax +49 2339/6030 info@axel-semrau.de We sense good chemistry ... The company undergoes regular external monitoring. The last inspection related to the quality of its technical service to customers which achieved the mark 1.73 (1 = highest) in a survey conducted by the TÜV (German Technical Inspection Association) in the German state of Saarland. Axel Semrau was certified by DEKRA in accordance with ISO 9001:2000 in May 2008 80 % of our workforce have completed training in science and technology. By continuous further employee training we guarantee a high level of advice and support. We can adapt our solutions to specific customer requirements if desired. © 02/2010 by Axel Semrau ® – 01E02/0210GB SOFTWARE SOFTWAREwww.axel-semrau.de Axel Semrau® is one of the largest Trade and Service Organization in Germany engaged in analytical instrumentation. For 30 Years Axel Semrau® sells and supports specialized solutions for chromatography and mass spectrometry with a steadily growing staff. Besides analytical systems for LC and GC Axel Semrau® has an expanding line of its own products in lab information management systems and Odor applicator control for the natural gas industry. A competent team of analytical chemists, informatics specialist and software engineers develops in close cooperation with end-users new products such as Chronos to improve efficient processes in the laboratory. Axel Semrau GmbH & Co. KG Stefansbecke 42, 45549 Sprockhövel, Germany Telefon +49 2339/1209-0, Fax +49 2339/6030 info@axel-semrau.de We sense good chemistry ... The company undergoes regular external monitoring. The last inspection related to the quality of its technical service to customers which achieved the mark 1.73 (1 = highest) in a survey conducted by the TÜV (German Technical Inspection Association) in the German state of Saarland. Axel Semrau was certified by DEKRA in accordance with ISO 9001:2000 in May 2008 80 % of our workforce have completed training in science and technology. By continuous further employee training we guarantee a high level of advice and support. We can adapt our solutions to specific customer requirements if desired.