Clarity Hardware NET-PAD

Significance of the topic

Chromatographic data acquisition and remote instrument control are key requirements for modern analytical laboratories. The integration of high-resolution analog-to-digital conversion and networked communication enables distributed data collection and centralized control, improving throughput, flexibility and synchronization across multiple detectors and instruments.

Objectives and overview

This summary covers the configuration and use of the DataApex Net-PAD external Ethernet A/D converter with Clarity chromatography software (version 2.7 and later). The manual describes hardware installation, network setup, wiring to detectors, software configuration and troubleshooting to facilitate reliable remote data acquisition.

Methodology and instrumentation

The Net-PAD device incorporates two isolated 24-bit sigma-delta analog inputs with selectable ranges (±156 mV, ±1250 mV, ±12 585 mV), four opto-isolated digital inputs, eight TTL digital outputs (four with relay contacts) and two onboard RS-232 ports. It connects via 10 Mb Ethernet using TCP/IP on configurable static addresses. Signal and marker cables follow the INT7 standard, while Clarity software provides drivers to detect, configure and synchronize the Net-PAD within a local network.

Main results and discussion

Proper installation of LAN cabling, IP configuration and reserved addresses ensures stable communication. The integrated Mains frequency filter (50 Hz or 60 Hz) and selectable sampling rates (6.25–100 Hz or 7.5–120 Hz) balance noise suppression and peak resolution. Synchronized digital inputs enable accurate external start/stop triggering for multi-detector analyses. Users can assign multiple Net-PADs and combine channels across several Clarity instruments, although digital output switching may exhibit a 1 s delay due to network latency.

Benefits and practical applications

• Remote chromatography data collection over LAN without dedicated acquisition cards
• Simultaneous measurement from two independent detector channels
• Direct serial control of auxiliary instruments via onboard COM ports
• Flexible digital I/O for synchronization with autosamplers and event sequencing
• Scalable multi-instrument setups within a single observation station

Future trends and potential applications

As laboratories adopt cloud computing and Internet-of-Things frameworks, Ethernet-connected converters like Net-PAD will integrate with laboratory information management systems and remote monitoring platforms. Advances in higher-speed network standards, enhanced cybersecurity and AI-driven data analysis are expected to further streamline automated chromatographic workflows and multi-site collaborations.

Conclusion

The Net-PAD external A/D converter extends Clarity software by providing high-precision, networked analog acquisition along with versatile digital control, simplifying setup of distributed chromatography systems. Its adaptable configuration supports diverse detector outputs, robust synchronization and centralized management, making it a valuable tool for modern QA/QC and research laboratories.

Reference

DataApex Ltd. Net-PAD User Manual, Rev. M052/80G, May 2025