Agilent OpenLAB ECM 3.5 - Site Preparation Checklist

Importance of the Topic

Ensuring proper site preparation for OpenLAB ECM 3.5 installation is critical to maintain reliable operation of chromatography data systems and associated content management over extended periods. Appropriate hardware and software configurations minimize downtime, improve performance, and support compliance in regulated environments.

Objectives and Overview

This document aims to provide a structured checklist for preparing servers, workstations, and network components prior to deploying the OpenLAB Enterprise Content Manager (ECM) version 3.5. It covers system requirements for database servers (SQL Server or Oracle), ECM application servers, file transfer and Web components, client workstations, and scheduler services.

Methodology and Instrumentation

• Database Servers: Dedicated physical or virtual servers configured for SQL Server 2014 or Oracle 12c with appropriate processor, memory and storage in RAID arrays. Collation and character set settings must match application requirements.
• ECM Servers: Separation of Web, application, and file transfer roles. Windows Server 2012 R2 hosts services with .NET Framework and SQL connectivity components. Firewall ports for HTTP, HTTPS, SMTP and database traffic are verified.
• Client Workstations and Scheduler: Windows 7/8/2012 R2 clients with MS Office integration, Adobe Acrobat plug-ins, and .NET support. Scheduler inbox requires sufficient disk space for temporary file processing.
• Network and Service Accounts: Static IP addressing, domain membership, TCP/IP networking, and a dedicated service account with file system permissions and non-expiring password policy.

Main Results and Discussion

Implementation of the checklist ensures predictable installation outcomes. Dedicated hardware for databases reduces resource contention. Consistent regional settings and collation prevent data corruption. Proper firewall configurations allow secure remote access without service interruptions.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Reduced installation errors and accelerated deployment.
• Improved system stability and performance in QA/QC workflows.
• Enhanced data integrity and regulatory compliance.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advances in virtualization platforms and cloud-native databases may simplify infrastructure requirements. Integration with laboratory automation and AI-driven data analytics will drive adoption of content management solutions. Greater use of containerized services and DevOps practices could further optimize deployment and maintenance.

Conclusion

A systematic site preparation approach aligns infrastructure with OpenLAB ECM 3.5 requirements and supports robust operation. Following this structured checklist minimizes risks, simplifies installation, and provides a foundation for scalable content management in analytical environments.