Clarity Control Module HTA 300

Significance of the topic

The integration of an autosampler control module into chromatography software is essential to streamline high-throughput analyses, improve reproducibility and ensure reliable synchronization between sample handling and instrument detection. By directly controlling HT300-series autosamplers from the Clarity environment, laboratories benefit from automated method transfer, precise timing, and enhanced data integrity, all of which are critical for modern QA/QC, research, and industrial workflows.

Objectives and Overview

This document provides a comprehensive guide to installing, configuring and operating the HTA 300 control module for HT300A, HT300L, HT300LV, HT310A and HT310L autosamplers under Clarity software. It covers hardware connections, software setup, method parameterization and troubleshooting procedures, enabling users to establish robust sample injection routines and automate sequence execution.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Installation and communication are based on a straight RS-232 DB9F-DB9M cable or optional 3-core alternative, with COM port settings at 9600,n,8,1. The Clarity System Configuration wizard is used to add the HTA 300 driver, specify sampler type and map digital Start/Ready signals to the acquisition card. Method setup tabs allow definition of basic, washing, filling, derivatization and synchronization parameters, including:

• Sample and wash volumes (µl) with 0.01-0.1 µl precision
• Aspiration/injection speeds (µl/s)
• Air-gap modes and internal-standard mixing
• Synchronization modes (Normal, Twin, A-start, Delayed)
• Loop washing and sample‐wash routines for liquid chromatography
• Derivatization cycles and dwell times

Used Instrumentation

• HT300A, HT310A gas-chromatography autosamplers
• HT300L, HT300LV, HT310L liquid-chromatography autosamplers
• PC with Clarity software and AS Control Module (p/n A26)
• RS-232 serial cables (DB9F-DB9M, p/n SK02) or multiport adapter

Key Results and Discussion

Successful configuration yields full remote control of vial selection, syringe washing, sample aspiration and injection timing, all recorded within chromatogram methods. Dual-injector models support confirmation and high-throughput modes. Parameter validation ensures correct volumes relative to loop size. The Device Monitor and communication log files facilitate real-time status checks and rapid troubleshooting.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Automated, reproducible sample injection for GC and HPLC workflows
• Integrated method management and traceability within the Clarity database
• Flexible washing and derivatization protocols reduce carryover and enhance sensitivity
• Synchronization options enable complex timed events across multiple instruments

Future Trends and Possibilities for Use

Emerging developments include expanded networked control via Ethernet, integration of IoT-enabled autosamplers for remote monitoring, AI-driven error diagnostics based on communication logs, and seamless cloud-based sequence management. Further miniaturization and advanced fluidics could support micro-volume sampling and on-the-fly dilution.

Conclusion

The HTA 300 control module, when properly installed and configured, empowers analytical laboratories with full software control over HT300-series autosamplers, reducing manual interventions, improving method consistency and simplifying data management. Its versatile synchronization and washing features make it a robust solution for diverse GC and HPLC applications.

References

No external literature cited in this summary.