Agilent 6850 Series II Network GC System - Specifications

Significance of the Method

The Agilent 6850 Series II Network GC system combines high-performance gas chromatography with a compact footprint and network connectivity. It addresses the need for reliable, automated, and versatile analysis in industrial, environmental, and pharmaceutical laboratories.

Objectives and Overview of the System

This document presents the specifications and capabilities of the Agilent 6850 Series II GC, highlighting its performance parity with larger models, network readiness, built-in autosampler control, and optional handheld interface.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The system employs precise electronic pneumatics control (EPC), programmable ovens with fast ramping, multiple inlet configurations, and interchangeable detectors. It supports cryogenic cooling and ambient compensation to achieve accurate temperature programming and stable baselines.

Used Instrumentation

• GC Module: Single-channel 6850 Series II with LAN interface, controller for G2880 autosampler or 7683 autoinjector, optional handheld control.
• Oven: Standard and fast oven modes; temperature range from ambient to 350 °C (–20 °C to –30 °C with cryo); six ramps with seven plateaus; automatic power-off on lid opening.
• Inlets: Split/splitless (50–530 µm i.d.), purged-packed, programmable temperature vaporizer (PTV), programmable cool-on-column.
• Detectors: FID, TCD, micro-ECD, single-wavelength FPD; temperature up to 375 °C; dynamic ranges from 10^5 to 10^7; data rates up to 200 Hz.
• Valving Options: 6-port gas sampling or 4-port liquid sampling in heated compartment; rotary and diaphragm designs for varying chemical compatibilities.
• Control Module: Optional handheld unit with graphical interface, method editing, real-time plot, diagnostics, and flash memory transfer.
• Environmental and Power: Operating 15 °C–35 °C, 5–95% RH; power 100–230 V, 9–20 A; complies with CISPR, EN 55011, IEC, CSA, UL, ISO 9001.

Main Results and Discussion

The 6850 Series II GC delivers performance comparable to the Agilent 6890N while halving the instrument width. Fast ramp rates up to 350 °C/min and precise EPC enable complex temperature programs. Cryogenic cooling extends the low-temperature limit to –30 °C. Detector sensitivity and dynamic range support trace analysis. Integrated diagnostics and service methods facilitate maintenance, reducing downtime.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• High throughput with rapid oven cool-down and fast programming.
• Flexible inlet and detector options for diverse analytes and matrices.
• Network and autosampler integration streamline data acquisition in QA/QC environments.
• Compact design conserves bench space in clinical, environmental, and petrochemical labs.
• Built-in diagnostics and service modes reduce maintenance complexity.

Future Trends and Applications

Advances may include further miniaturization, enhanced IoT connectivity for remote monitoring, greener cryogenic cooling, and expanded AI-driven diagnostics. Integration with laboratory information management systems and cloud-based data analysis will improve workflow efficiency and data integrity.

Conclusion

The Agilent 6850 Series II Network GC system offers a robust, versatile platform for modern analytical challenges. Its compact design, advanced control features, and broad application range make it a valuable tool for laboratories requiring reliable, high-performance gas chromatography.