Sample Scheduler for OpenLab revision 2.3 – Site Preparation Checklist

Significance of the Topic

Proper site preparation is essential to guarantee reliable and uninterrupted operation of analytical instruments and software over their service lifetime. A comprehensive checklist helps laboratories avoid installation delays, reduce commissioning costs, and ensure compliance with IT and QA/QC standards.

Study Objectives and Overview

This document presents a detailed site preparation checklist for the Sample Scheduler for OpenLab revision 2.3. It aims to define customer responsibilities, outline hardware, software and networking requirements, and provide a structured approach to achieving a successful installation and configuration.

Methodology

The checklist is organized into key preparation areas:

• Computing Environment – provision of adequate workspace, electrical outlets, and synchronized system date/time.
• Software Specifications – installation and configuration of OpenLab CDS (2.1 SR1 or higher) or OpenLab CDS EZChrom (A.04.08 or higher) and identification of backup solutions.
• LIMS Integration – early engagement of LIMS experts, provision of connection details (XML or SQL), and mapping of instrument control methods to the Sample Scheduler.
• Database Configuration – setup of Microsoft SQL Server (2008 R2 through 2017) with TCP/IP access, open ports (default 1433), and appropriate authentication and privileges.
• Network and Security – opening TCP/UDP port 6572 for controller services, ports 7243/7244/7245 for web interface and AIC reconfiguration, and installation of trusted SSL certificates.
• Personnel and Credentials – presence of LIMS, CDS and network administrators during installation, and availability of administrative user accounts for PCs, CDS, SQL Server, and Agilent SubscribeNet.

Instrumentation

• Sample Scheduler for OpenLab revision 2.3
• OpenLab CDS (2.1 SR1 or later) or OpenLab CDS EZChrom Edition (A.04.08 or later)
• Microsoft SQL Server Express or Standard (2008 R2, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2017)
• Workstations, Clients and AICs meeting OpenLab CDS hardware requirements plus additional RAM (120 MB for LIMS agent, 150 MB per Scheduler agent, and up to 900 MB for client with 20 000 analyses)

Main Results and Discussion

The preparation checklist consolidates all prerequisites into a single reference, ensuring that computing resources, software licenses, network configurations and personnel readiness are aligned prior to on-site installation. By following the defined steps, laboratories can minimize installation time and avoid technical complications.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Streamlined installation process with fewer rescheduled service calls.
• Reduced risk of incompatibilities between LIMS, CDS and scheduler components.
• Clear assignment of customer responsibilities accelerates project planning.
• Enhanced system reliability through proper network and database configuration.

Future Trends and Applications

Advancements may include cloud-based scheduler deployments, tighter integration with modern LIMS platforms, expanded support for IoT-enabled instruments, and mobile-friendly user interfaces. Automation of site scanning and compliance checks could further reduce manual preparation efforts.

Conclusion

A thorough site preparation guided by this checklist is vital for the successful deployment of the Sample Scheduler for OpenLab. Meeting hardware, software and networking prerequisites in advance ensures a smooth installation, long-term stability and efficient laboratory operations.