Agilent OpenLab CDS v2.3 – Adding Client to Existing System - Site Preparation Checklist

Importance of Topic

Proper site preparation for adding an OpenLab CDS v2.3 client ensures reliable operation, minimizes installation delays and safeguards data integrity. Addressing software, hardware and network prerequisites in advance supports smooth integration and long-term system stability.

Study Objectives and Overview

This checklist-style guidance aims to identify all customer responsibilities, define environmental requirements and outline steps for a successful client installation. It covers computing environment setup, network configuration, software prerequisites and available support services.

Methodology and Instrumentation Used

The approach is based on a structured site assessment tool and detailed specifications for:

• Operating systems (Windows 7 SP1, Windows 10, Server 2012 R2)
• .NET frameworks and localized components
• Hardware platform (Intel i5/i7 or Xeon at ≥3.0 GHz, 8 GB RAM, 500 GB disk)
• Network settings (IPv4 only, domain integration, DNS resolution)
• Virtualization environments (Citrix XenApp, VMware vSphere, Hyper-V, RDS)

Installation relies on standard PC peripherals, a valid license manager service and a USB port for setup media.

Main Results and Discussion

Key findings highlight:

• The necessity of local administrator rights and domain user accounts for configuration.
• Recommended hardware specifications to meet performance targets and data throughput.
• Critical network requirements, including static or reserved DHCP addressing and disabling IPv6.
• Potential port conflicts between license manager and virtualization platforms.
• Integration with antivirus solutions and web browsers for optimal user experience.

Discussion emphasizes that meeting these prerequisites reduces troubleshooting effort and supports uninterrupted data acquisition.

Benefits and Practical Applications

By following this checklist, laboratories can:

1. Ensure consistent installation processes across multiple sites.
2. Reduce service rescheduling due to missing hardware or software components.
3. Facilitate user training and operational qualification at the time of setup.
4. Maintain system security and compliance through proper domain integration and antivirus support.

This structured approach accelerates user adoption and enhances overall productivity.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Anticipated developments include cloud-hosted chromatography data systems, deeper virtualization integration and automated site verification tools. Enhanced compatibility with emerging Windows releases and containerized deployments may further simplify client provisioning and maintenance.

Conclusion

A comprehensive site preparation checklist is vital for the timely and error-free addition of an OpenLab CDS client. Adhering to defined software, hardware and network standards delivers a robust platform for chromatographic data management and future growth.

Reference

Agilent Technologies. OpenLab CDS v2.3 – Adding Client to Existing System Site Preparation Checklist. Issued 22-May-2018.