Category:Chronos

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Revision as of 13:38, 8 June 2010

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

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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

• Thermo Electron Xcalibur 1.4 and 2.0 LC, GC
• Agilent GC/LC and MSD ChemStation
• 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 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

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 strives to find total solutions for analytical lab automation by automating analytical processes for small and large molecules in extracted liquids, solids, and recently in human, animal and plant tissues. We provide the precise robotics and efficient sample prep required by modern measurement techniques such as MALDITOF mass spectroscopy. Our newest specialty customization of CTC Analytics’ PAL features small workstations that can perform complex liquid handling tasks including HPLC-Purification, SPE, filtration, weighing, heating and stirring. They can be configured as stand alone units or integrated for “just in time” sample prep for LC-MS or GC-MS analysis.
LEAP provides automated workstation instrumentation solutions based on the LEAP CTC PAL X, Y, Z syringe only autosampler robot from LEAP Technologies. 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 offers full support and service for the PAL platform in addition to being able to write custom macros, cycles, and scheduling to your applications. Please contact LEAP Technologies on how we can help you get maximized throughput with flexible pipetting automation solutions.

Contact LEAP

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