Clarity (Lite) 8.8 vs 8.7

Significance of the Topic

Chromatography data acquisition and analysis software directly influences laboratory productivity and data integrity. Upgrading to the latest version leverages improved calibration management, data export flexibility, and broader hardware compatibility.

Objectives and Overview

This article reviews key enhancements introduced in DataApex Clarity Chromatography Station version 8.8 compared to 8.7. Emphasis is placed on functional improvements, user interface refinements, and expanded control module support.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The comparison relies on the official release notes of versions 8.7 and 8.8. Software changes covering calibration routines, data export formats, signal processing options, and driver implementations are summarized. Instrumentation modules supported include:

• DataApex Colibrick A/D converters
• U-PAD2 and Zebrick converters
• UNI-Ruby modules and various detector and pump modules (e.g. PDA detectors, ELSD, RID-E, HPLC pumps)

Main Results and Discussion

• Calibration enhancements: introduction of “Filter Not Used Compounds” to streamline multisignal calibration tables.
• Data export: direct CSV export aligned with user-defined delimiters.
• Signal processing: new offset parameter for Colibrick, support for nanoamp current units, dynamic overlay labeling in chromatogram dialogs, and additional result table columns (“Start Value (Signal)”, “End Value (Signal)”) enabling peak-to-valley ratio calculations.
• Driver updates: migration to Microsoft WinUSB for A/D and D/A modules improves stability.
• PDA correlation: refined rescaling method for peak purity and match factor assessments.
• Expanded control module support: multiple new and updated modules for detectors and pumps from vendors such as Analytik Jena, Agilent, Sykam, Young In Chromass, and others.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The new features accelerate method development, simplify data handling, and ensure regulatory compliance by recording filter usage. Broader hardware integration facilitates centralized control of diverse chromatography setups.

Future Trends and Applications

Anticipated trends include tighter integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), enhanced real-time data analytics, and cloud-based multi-site instrument control. Continued expansion of vendor support will further standardize workflows.

Conclusion

Version 8.8 delivers targeted upgrades that refine user experience, extend hardware compatibility, and strengthen data processing capabilities. These enhancements support more efficient chromatographic analysis and provide a robust foundation for future developments.

Reference

DataApex Ltd. Clarity Chromatography Station Version 8.8 vs 8.7 Comparison Manual, 2023.