Analytical Data System LabSolutions DB/CS

Importance of Topic

Effective data management and workflow integration are essential in modern analytical laboratories to handle increasing data volumes, maintain data integrity, and comply with stringent regulatory standards.

Objectives and Overview

This whitepaper presents Shimadzu’s LabSolutions analytical data system platforms (DB and CS), designed to unify data acquisition, processing, and reporting across diverse instruments and laboratory scales. It examines database-driven versus standalone implementations, highlights compliance features, and explores enhanced operational practices.

Methodology and Instrumentation

LabSolutions CS employs a client-server database model for networked environments, supporting cloud or on-premise deployment, terminal services, and remote operation. LabSolutions DB offers a standalone configuration ideal for isolated systems. Both platforms integrate with chromatography (LC, GC, LC–MS, GC–MS) and non-chromatography instruments (FTIR, UV, RF, AA, TOC) via acquisition controllers and optional multi-instrument data registration modules.

Main Results and Discussion

Key capabilities include:

• Unified user interface for all instrument types, reducing training time.
• Real-time instrument status monitoring and scheduled startup/shutdown to streamline workflows.
• Advanced search and multi-data reporting for rapid data retrieval and integrated reporting.
• Electronic review, audit trails, and e-signature support to ensure data integrity and compliance with regulations (e.g., FDA 21 CFR Part 11).
• Flexible network configurations—from single-PC standalone to large, distributed cloud-linked systems.
• Security policies, user management, and automatic backups to safeguard data.

Benefits and Practical Applications

LabSolutions enhances laboratory efficiency by centralizing data, minimizing manual errors, and supporting remote work. Compliance is strengthened through secure record-keeping and audit trails. The system scales with laboratory growth, facilitating integration of new instruments and processes without disrupting operations.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Emerging developments include deeper cloud integration, AI-driven modules (Peakintelligence for automated peak integration and Insight for rapid multi-sample MS evaluation), and interoperability with LIMS/ELN platforms. Adoption of standardized data formats (Allotrope) and advanced method development tools (AQbD) will further advance analytical productivity.

Conclusion

Shimadzu’s LabSolutions DB and CS offer comprehensive solutions for modern analytical laboratories, addressing the twin challenges of workflow optimization and stringent data integrity. Their modular design and wide-ranging features support diverse industries, facilitate compliance, and prepare laboratories for future technological advancements.

Used Instrumentation

• Chromatography: LC, GC, LC–MS, GC–MS
• Spectroscopy: FTIR, UV, RF
• Elemental and Surface Analysis: AA, ICP–OES, TOC
• Additional Instruments: balances, particle size analyzers, thermal analyzers