Agilent Dissolution Workflow Manager for OpenLab Workstation Plus Software Site Preparation Checklist

Significance of Proper Site Preparation

Reliable operation of analytical software and connected instruments depends on a well-prepared laboratory environment. Adequate site preparation reduces installation delays, minimizes system downtime, and ensures compliance with regulatory and quality requirements. By addressing hardware, software, network, and user-privilege prerequisites in advance, laboratories can accelerate time to value and extend system longevity.

Objectives and Overview

This guide outlines the essential steps and checks required before installing Agilent Dissolution Workflow Manager for OpenLab Workstation Plus. It is designed to help laboratory managers and IT staff verify that their site meets all prerequisites, from computing environment to network configuration, enabling a smooth and efficient installation process.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The site preparation methodology is based on Agilent’s CrossLab Start Up Services framework. Key elements include:

• Software prerequisites: operating system versions, .NET frameworks, web browsers, and antivirus compatibility
• Hardware specifications: processor, memory, storage, serial/USB ports for instrument connectivity, and network interfaces
• User-privilege requirements: domain account with local administrator rights
• Reference instrumentation: OpenLab Workstation Plus v2.8 with Update 5, dissolution instruments connected via RS-232 or USB-to-serial adapters

Main Findings and Discussion

Analysis of the site preparation checklist highlights several critical requirements:

• Operating system: Windows 10 or 11 Enterprise/Professional 64-bit (21H2 or later)
• .NET Framework/Core: .NET 3.5.x enabled, .NET 4.8+ and .NET 6.x installed by the OpenLab installer
• Web browsers: Google Chrome 98+, Microsoft Edge
• Antivirus software: Symantec, Trend Micro, Microsoft Security Essentials, or McAfee
• Hardware: Intel i5/i7/Xeon E3 3.0 GHz+, 4 cores, 16 GB RAM (4 GB reserved for OS), 2×500 GB or 1 TB storage (SSD recommended)
• Connectivity: one serial port per instrument (USB-to-serial adapters require third-party drivers), USB 2.0 for installation media, dual LAN cards for instrument isolation and intranet access
• User privileges: domain user with local administrator rights for installation and configuration

Failure to meet any of these criteria may result in rescheduled installations or suboptimal system performance.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Adhering to the site preparation checklist ensures:

• Accelerated installation and commissioning of dissolution workflows
• Reduced risk of configuration errors and software incompatibilities
• Enhanced data integrity and system reliability
• Streamlined collaboration between laboratory scientists and IT support

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Looking ahead, site preparation processes will increasingly leverage automation and digital collaboration tools. Anticipated developments include:

• Cloud-based deployment of analytical software and remote validation
• Integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) for seamless data exchange
• Containerization of instrument control software to simplify environment setup
• Remote diagnostics and predictive maintenance for pre-emptive issue resolution

Conclusion

Comprehensive site preparation is a fundamental step in realizing the full potential of Agilent Dissolution Workflow Manager for OpenLab Workstation Plus. By systematically verifying hardware, software, network, and user requirements, laboratories can minimize installation delays, ensure reliable long-term operation, and maximize return on investment.

Reference

• Agilent Technologies Document D0022257, Revision A.00, February 2025.