Agilent OpenLab Shared Services Server v2.4 - Site Preparation Checklist

Significance of the Topic

Proper site preparation for Agilent OpenLab Shared Services Server v2.4 is critical to ensure reliable software deployment and sustained performance in analytical laboratories. Meeting detailed hardware, software, and network prerequisites minimizes installation delays, reduces system failures, and supports data integrity and compliance over the instrument lifecycle.

Objectives and Overview

This document provides a comprehensive checklist for customers to verify that their site environment meets all requirements prior to the OpenLab Shared Services Server installation. It covers customer responsibilities, system specifications, and compatibility considerations to facilitate a smooth setup and operational readiness.

Methodology and Instrumentation Used

The checklist is organized by category to guide site preparation tasks:

• Customer Responsibilities: Confirm availability of computing space, electrical outlets, software media, licenses, backup solutions, and system administration support.
• Software Specifications: Supported operating systems (Windows Server 2012 R2/2016), database platforms (MS SQL Server 2012–2017, PostgreSQL 10.3, Oracle 12c R2), internet browsers (IE11, Edge, Chrome), .NET frameworks (3.5 SP1, 4.7.2), and PDF reader.
• Hardware Specifications: Recommended dedicated server featuring an Intel Xeon E5 v2 3 GHz dual-core processor, minimum 12 GB RAM, RAID-1 storage (two 100 GB 7.2 K rpm drives for OS/software and two for data), and 1 Gb Ethernet network interface.
• Networking Requirements: Standard TCP/IP with adequate bandwidth, IP address assignment, name resolution, and subnet isolation; WANs unsupported; firewall and domain guidelines per the hardware/software guide.
• ECM Compatibility: Compatibility with ECM 3.5 Update 6 and ECM 3.6 for electronic content management integration.

Main Findings and Discussion

The checklist highlights that readiness of site infrastructure directly impacts installation scheduling and system performance. Agilent reserves the right to postpone deployment if prerequisites are unmet. By collating hardware, software, and network requirements in one reference, customers can proactively address potential issues and coordinate with service engineers to optimize their laboratory environment.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Implementing this preparatory guide enables laboratories to:

• Avoid installation delays by verifying site readiness in advance.
• Ensure consistent system operation through adherence to supported configurations.
• Facilitate compliance with IT and regulatory standards by following documented requirements.
• Streamline collaboration between laboratory and IT personnel for system maintenance.

Future Trends and Applications

As digital infrastructures evolve, future developments may include increased virtualization of server environments, cloud-based deployment options for OpenLab Shared Services, tighter integration with laboratory automation platforms, and enhanced remote monitoring capabilities. These trends will further simplify installations and expand accessibility for distributed laboratory networks.

Conclusion

A thorough site preparation based on the OpenLab Shared Services Server v2.4 checklist is essential for reliable installation, optimal system performance, and long-term operational stability. Adhering to specified hardware, software, and networking requirements reduces downtime, supports data management, and underpins efficient laboratory workflows.