Metrohm IC Net 2.0 User Manual
Metrohm Ltd.
CH-9101 Herisau/Switzerland
Phone ++41 71 353 85 85
Fax ++41 71 353 89 01
Internet www.metrohm.ch
E-Mail info@metrohm.ch
6.6034.003
Metrodata
IC Net 2.0
8.110.8193 Software Manual
25.01.2000 / dö
All Rights Reserved.
Printed in Switzerland by Metrohm AG, CH-9101 Herisau 2000
Table of contents
Table of contents
1 Introduction..........................................................................................1
1.1 Purpose of program.....................................................................1
1.2 Information about the software manual....................................1
1.3 Notation and pictograms.............................................................2
1.4 Installation.....................................................................................3
1.4.1 Hardware requirements for the PC ................................3
1.4.2 Software Installation.......................................................3
1.4.3 Software deinstallation...................................................4
1.4.4 Demo version.................................................................4
1.4.5 Registration....................................................................4
2 Fundamentals of the operation..............................................5
2.1 Starting/closing the program......................................................5
2.1.1 Start the «IC Net» program.............................................5
2.1.2 Close the «IC Net» program...........................................5
2.2 Glossary.........................................................................................6
2.3 Overview of program windows...................................................8
2.4 Main window elements................................................................8
2.5 Icons of the main window...........................................................9
2.6 Overview of file types................................................................10
2.7 Context-sensitive menus...........................................................11
2.8 Keyboard and mouse functions...............................................11
2.9 Help ..............................................................................................12
3 Software settings..........................................................................13
3.1 Fonts ............................................................................................13
3.2 Security system..........................................................................13
3.3 Global settings............................................................................14
IC Net 2.0
4 Systems................................................................................................17
4.1 System creation..........................................................................17
4.1.1 System wizard..............................................................17
4.1.2 System window............................................................19
4.1.3 Add devices to an existing window..............................19
4.2 System file handling ..................................................................20
I
Table of contents
4.3 System functions........................................................................20
4.3.1 Connect and disconnect system.................................20
4.3.2 Start/stop hardware and record baseline.....................21
4.3.3 Start/stop determinations.............................................22
4.3.4 Options for determinations ..........................................22
4.4 System settings..........................................................................24
4.4.1 Modify system window.................................................24
4.4.2 Watch window display .................................................24
4.4.3 Set start mode..............................................................24
4.4.4 Install new devices.......................................................25
4.4.5 Install existing devices.................................................25
4.4.6 Print system parameters..............................................25
4.4.7 Show system parameters ............................................26
4.4.8 Links.............................................................................26
4.5 System state window.................................................................26
4.5.1 Status messages .........................................................26
4.5.2 General error messages..............................................27
4.5.3 Error messages for 761 Compact IC...........................27
5 Interfaces ...........................................................................................29
5.1 Interface installation ..................................................................29
5.1.1 Add interfaces with system wizard...............................29
5.1.2 Add interfaces in workplace window............................30
5.1.3 Delete interfaces..........................................................30
5.2 762 IC Interface...........................................................................31
5.2.1 762 IC Interface features..............................................31
5.2.2 762 icon on the toolbar................................................31
5.2.3 762 icons in the system window..................................31
5.2.4 762 IC Interface window...............................................32
5.2.5 762 Event output lines..................................................34
5.3 771 Compact Interface...............................................................38
5.3.1 771 Compact Interface features...................................38
5.3.2 771 icon on the toolbar................................................38
5.3.3 771 Compact Interface window...................................38
5.4 761 Compact IC...........................................................................40
5.4.1 761 Compact IC features.............................................40
5.4.2 761 icon on the toolbar................................................40
5.4.3 761 icon in the system window....................................41
5.4.4 761 Compact IC window..............................................41
5.4.5 Hardware settings........................................................49
5.5 Metrohm PC Board.....................................................................51
5.6 Global timer.................................................................................51
5.6.1 Timer icon ....................................................................51
5.6.2 Timer program .............................................................52
II
IC Net 2.0
Table of contents
6 Devices .................................................................................................53
6.1 Device installation......................................................................53
6.1.1 Install devices at system creation................................53
6.1.2 Install new devices in system window..........................54
6.1.3 Install existing devices in system window....................54
6.1.4 Delete devices .............................................................54
6.2 Watch window.............................................................................55
6.2.1 Watch window icon......................................................55
6.2.2 Watch window settings................................................55
6.3 732 IC Detector ...........................................................................57
6.3.1 732 IC Detector features..............................................57
6.3.2 732 IC Detector icon....................................................57
6.3.3 732 IC Detector window...............................................58
6.4 733 IC Separation Center...........................................................64
6.4.1 733 IC Separation Center features...............................64
6.4.2 733 IC Separation Center icon.....................................64
6.4.3 733 IC Separation Center window ...............................65
6.5 709 IC Pump................................................................................66
6.5.1 709 IC Pump features..................................................66
6.5.2 709 IC Pump icon ........................................................67
6.5.3 709 IC Pump window...................................................67
6.6 Metrohm solvent delivery unit..................................................69
6.6.1 Metrohm SDU features ................................................69
6.6.2 Metrohm SDU icon.......................................................70
6.6.3 Metrohm SDU window.................................................70
6.7 752 Pump Unit.............................................................................74
6.7.1 752 Pump Unit features ...............................................74
6.7.2 752 Pump Unit icon......................................................74
6.7.3 752 Pump Unit window................................................74
6.8 753 Suppressor Module.............................................................77
6.8.1 753 Suppressor Module features.................................77
6.8.2 753 Suppressor Module icon.......................................77
6.8.3 753 Suppressor Module window..................................77
6.9 754 Dialysis Unit.........................................................................80
6.9.1 754 Dialysis Unit features.............................................80
6.9.2 754 Dialysis Unit icon...................................................80
6.9.3 754 Dialysis Unit window .............................................80
IC Net 2.0
6.10 750 Autosampler.........................................................................83
6.10.1 750 Autosampler features............................................83
6.10.2 750 Autosampler icon..................................................83
6.10.3 750 Autosampler window.............................................84
6.11 766 IC Sample Processor..........................................................87
6.11.1 766 IC Sample Processor features ..............................87
6.11.2 766 IC Sample Processor icon ....................................87
6.11.3 766 IC Sample Processor window...............................88
III
Table of contents
7 Methods................................................................................................99
6.12 Data recorder ..............................................................................96
6.12.1 Data recorder icon.......................................................96
6.12.2 Select processing method and data source................96
6.13 System timer...............................................................................98
6.13.1 Timer icon....................................................................98
6.13.2 Timer program.............................................................98
7.1 Method file handling ..................................................................99
7.2 Passport.......................................................................................99
7.2.1 General ......................................................................100
7.2.2 Sample.......................................................................101
7.2.3 Column ......................................................................102
7.2.4 Eluent.........................................................................103
7.2.5 Comment...................................................................104
7.2.6 Method Log................................................................104
7.2.7 Data Log....................................................................105
7.3 Method setup ........................................................................... 106
7.3.1 General ......................................................................106
7.3.2 Measure.....................................................................106
7.3.3 Filters .........................................................................107
7.3.4 Processing.................................................................108
7.3.5 Math...........................................................................109
7.4 Integration................................................................................ 111
7.4.1 General information ...................................................111
7.4.2 Setup..........................................................................112
7.4.3 Events........................................................................114
7.5 Calibration and quantification............................................... 119
7.5.1 General information ...................................................119
7.5.2 Notations....................................................................120
7.5.3 External standard calibration .....................................121
7.5.4 Component table.......................................................121
7.5.5 Peak identification......................................................124
7.5.6 Concentration table....................................................125
7.5.7 Calibration curve........................................................127
7.5.8 Update calibration......................................................129
7.5.9 Calibration data handling...........................................130
IV
7.6 Report output........................................................................... 131
7.6.1 Report options window..............................................131
7.6.2 Items to report............................................................132
7.6.3 More items to report...................................................134
7.6.4 Report destination......................................................137
7.6.5 Peak table..................................................................137
7.6.6 Template options.......................................................140
7.6.7 File output options.....................................................140
7.6.8 Report elements.........................................................141
IC Net 2.0
Table of contents
8 Chromatograms ..........................................................................145
8.1 Chromatogram window.......................................................... 145
8.2 Chromatogram file handling.................................................. 146
8.2.1 Open chromatogram .................................................146
8.2.2 Save chromatogram ..................................................148
8.2.3 Close chromatogram.................................................148
8.2.4 Delete chromatogram................................................148
8.2.5 Export chromatogram................................................148
8.2.6 Import chromatogram................................................149
8.3 Graphical representation........................................................ 150
8.3.1 Appearance ...............................................................150
8.3.2 Other graphical functions...........................................154
8.4 Peak editor ............................................................................... 155
8.4.1 Switching on/off the peak editor ................................155
8.4.2 Peak editor functions .................................................155
8.4.3 Moving the cursor......................................................156
8.5 Printing ..................................................................................... 157
8.5.1 Page layout for printing..............................................157
8.5.2 Printer settings...........................................................158
8.5.3 Print preview...............................................................158
8.5.4 Printing.......................................................................158
8.6 Miscellaneous functions ........................................................ 159
8.6.1 Reintegration..............................................................159
8.6.2 Recalibration..............................................................159
8.6.3 Subtraction of a chromatogram.................................159
8.6.4 Data compression......................................................160
8.6.5 Invert chromatogram..................................................160
8.6.6 Autodatabase.............................................................161
9 Sample queue...............................................................................163
9.1 Sample queue file handling ................................................... 163
9.1.1 Open sample queue..................................................163
9.1.2 Save sample queue...................................................163
9.1.3 Delete sample queue.................................................163
9.2 Sample queue control............................................................. 164
9.2.1 Sample queue overview table....................................164
9.2.2 Start sample queue....................................................165
9.2.3 Pause sample queue.................................................165
9.2.4 Cancel last run...........................................................166
9.2.5 Reset sample queue..................................................166
IC Net 2.0
9.3 Sample queue editor............................................................... 166
9.3.1 Open queue editor window........................................166
9.3.2 Sample queue editor functions..................................167
9.3.3 Print sample queue....................................................168
9.3.4 Close sample queue editor........................................168
V
Table of contents
10 Batch reprocessing .................................................................. 169
11 Appendix...........................................................................................177
10.1 Batch reprocessing queue file handling.............................. 169
10.1.1 Open batch reprocessing queue...............................169
10.1.2 Create new batch reprocessing queue......................169
10.1.3 Save batch reprocessing queue................................170
10.2 Perform batch reprocessing.................................................. 170
10.2.1 Reprocess options window........................................170
10.2.2 Merge chromatograms..............................................174
10.3 Batch reprocessing queue editor.......................................... 175
10.3.1 Open batch reprocessing queue editor window........175
10.3.2 Batch reprocessing queue editor functions...............176
10.3.3 Print batch reprocessing queue.................................176
10.3.4 Close batch reprocessing queue editor.....................176
11.1 Software license...................................................................... 177
11.2 Ordering designations............................................................ 177
11.3 Index.......................................................................................... 178
VI
IC Net 2.0
1 Introduction
1.1 Purpose of program
«ICNet 2.0» is the name of the data acquisition and control software for PC-controlled ion chromatographic systems consisting
of Metrohm and Bischoff instruments. The current version is a
true 32-bit application. It was designed specially to operate under Windows 95, Windows 98 and Windows NT and uses all its
benefits.
The «ICNet 2.0» program can be used to create systems for recording and evaluating chromatograms. Time programs can also
be created in which a large number of instrument functions can
be triggered for each program step. It is also possible to use
programmable signals to control external instruments.
1.1 Purpose of program
The operating software meets all the requirements you could
place today on a modern integration software: single or multipoint calibration, internal or external standard, selectable algorithms for non-linear calibration, various integration modes with
integration parameters and integration events, different methods
for peak recognition, peak editor, free scaling, superimposing
several chromatograms, use of sample tables and batch reprocessing; a powerful and GLP-conform report generator with output
interfaces for monitor, printer and external databases.
1.2 Information about the software manual
This 8.110.8193 Software Manual provides a comprehensive
overview of the operation of the «IC Net» program. The manual is
organized as follows:
Section 1 Introduction
Installation
Section 2 Fundamentals of the operation
Program elements and features
IC Net 2.0
Section 3 Software settings
Fonts, security system, global settings
Section 4 Systems
Creation of new systems, interfaces and devices,
determinations
1
1 Introduction
Section 5 Interfaces
Installation, control and parameter settings of interfaces
Section 6 Devices
Installation, control and parameter settings of devices
Section 7 Methods
Method parameters, integration, calibration, quantification, report
Section 8 Chromatograms
Chromatogram appearance, peak editor
Section 9 Sample queue
Sample queue control and editor
Section 10 Batch reprocessing
Reprocessing of chromatograms
Section 11 Appendix
Software license, ordering designations, index
To find the required information, you will find it an advantage to
use either the Table of contents or the Index at the back.
This Software Manual describes only the installation and operation of Metrohm instruments. For details concerning the
Bischoff instruments, please refer to the on-line help in the program and to the Bischoff instruction manuals.
Additional publications about ion chromatographic analyses are
available on request free of charge from your Metrohm agency.
The 8.732.2003 Metrohm Monograph «Ion chromatography»
provides an introduction to the theoretical fundamentals and
general information on separating columns and sample pretreatment.
The 8.732.2013 IC Applications Collection contains all the
Application Notes on the subject of ion chromatography and
can be updated at any time by downloading the latest applications from the Internet under «www.metrohm.ch». Last, but not
least, you will find detailed information on the separating columns
available from Metrohm and on special IC applications in the
relevant "Application Bulletins".
1.3 Notation and pictograms
The following notations are used in this software manual:
Range
SYSTEM STATE
2
Menu item, parameter or entry value
Program window
IC Net 2.0
1.4 Installation
<OK>
Button
[ Ctrl ] Key
Hazard
This symbol draws attention to a possible
danger to life or of injury if the associated
directions are not followed correctly.
Warning
This symbol draws attention to possible damage to instruments or instrument parts if the
associated directions are not followed correctly.
Caution
This symbol marks important information.
First read the associated directions before
you continue.
Comment
This symbol marks additional information and
tips.
1.4 Installation
1.4.1 Hardware requirements for the PC
Computer Pentium II with 200 MHz or higher
Operating system Windows® 95, Windows® 98, or Win-
Free space on hard disk 12 MB for program files
Working memory RAM 32 MB for Windows® 95 and Win-
Graphics resolution 800×600, better 1024×768 or more
Printer Any printer supported by the operat-
1.4.2 Software Installation
Insert installation CD into CD drive. Select <Start> and Run. Find
the file setup.exe on the CD and click on <OK>. Click on IC Net in
the selection menu and follow the setup program instructions.
dows® NT
50 MB recommended for data files
dows® 98, 64 MB for Windows® NT
ing system
IC Net 2.0
3
1 Introduction
The two software packages «IC Net 2.0» and «Autodatabase
1.0» will be installed in the desired directory. Icons are created in
the program folder, in the startup folder, and on the desktop. In
addition to the program files of the «IC Net» program, the follow-
ing folders are installed:
Data Folder for storage of chromatogram files (*.chw)
and batch reprocessing files (*.bar) with several
examples.
Devices Folder for storage of device files.(*.dev).
Log Folder for storage of exception files.(*.exc),
history files (*.hst), and log files (*.log).
Methods Folder for storage of data acquisition method
files (*.mtw) and sample queue files (*.que) with
several examples.
Reports Folder for storage of report files (*) and graphic
files (*.wmf).
Systems Folder for storage of system files (*.smt).
1.4.3 Software deinstallation
Select <Start> / Settings / Control panel. Double-click the Software
icon. Select Metrohm IC Net 2.0 in the list and click on
<Add/remove>. All program files and icons should be removed.
1.4.4 Demo version
If the «IC Net Software 2.0» is installed on a PC without installa-
tion of IC system components, this software can be used as a
demo version which is restricted to the display and recalculation of already recorded chromatograms.
1.4.5 Registration
Please send us your 8.110.8207 Registration card as soon as
possible. Only registered users will get updated program versions at a special price.
4
IC Net 2.0
2.1 Starting/closing the program
2 Fundamentals of the operation
2.1 Starting/closing the program
2.1.1 Start the «IC Net» program
Start the program
Double-click this icon or the ICNet.exe file to start the «IC Net 2.0»
program. The IC Net login window appears:
Enter your password and click on <Log In>.
After software installation, the program can be started without
entering a Password. For the definition of users, see section 3.2.
2.1.2 Close the «IC Net» program
IC NET / File / Exit (Alt+F4)
Exit the «IC Net 2.0» program.
The program is also quit by clicking on in the upper right part
of the main window.
IC Net 2.0
5
2 Fundamentals of the operation
2.2 Glossary
Batch reprocessing
Batch reprocessing is understood to be the subsequent reprocessing of a series of chromatograms which have been loaded in
a batch reprocessing queue. During reprocessing with a selected
method the settings for calibration, integration, passport, appearance and report can be altered at will (for details, see section
10).
Calibration
Calibration is used to describe the method of determining the relationship between the peak height or peak area found for one
component and its concentration in the sample. The result of the
calibration is a calibration function (calibration curve), which
shows the relationship between the amount of sample and the
evaluated quantity.
The determination of the calibration function with reference solutions can be carried out as a one-point or as a multiple-point
calibration. The calibration method which is mainly used in ion
chromatography is the external standard calibration (absolute
calibration); calibration with an internal standard (relative calibration) or tabulated calibration are also possible (for details,
see section 4).
Chromatogram
A chromatogram is a graphic plot of the elution curve (signal vs.
time) recorded following a chromatographic separation on a
separating column.
Chromatograms are stored as chromatogram files (*.chw) in the
Data directory. As well as the measuring data the chromatogram
files also contain the method parameters and system settings
which have been used for data recording, data processing and
remote control (for details, see section 8).
Determination
In order to carry out a determination a suitable system must be
selected for the separating problem. The result of the determination is a chromatogram, in which the measuring data and results of the determination are stored (for details, see section 8).
Device
The «IC Net» program supports remote control for Metrohm and
Bischoff instruments. Each instrument within a system is a device. Devices are stored as device files (*.dev) in the Devices directory. All Metrohm devices start with Me*.dev and all Bischoff
devices start with Bi*.dev (for details, see section 6).
Integration
Integration is to be understood as being the method for determining the peak area and peak height with the aid of approximate
6
IC Net 2.0
Interface
Method
2.2 Glossary
baselines. The integration algorithm included in the program is
influenced by the integration parameters and the optionally
programmable integration events which are defined in the
method. In addition, the integration can be manually corrected
later with the aid of the peak editor (for details, see section 7).
The «IC Net» program supports remote control for interfaces
available from Metrohm and Bischoff. Interfaces generally convert
analog signals to digital form, which can be handled by the computer. Interfaces are stored as device files (*.dev) in the Devices
directory. All Metrohm interfaces and Metrohm devices start
with Me*.dev; all Bischoff interfaces and Bischoff devices start
with Bi*.dev (for details, see section 5).
A method contains all information necessary for data acquisi-
tion, integration, peak evaluation and quantification. It can
be considered as the chromatogram template, i.e. chromatogram
without raw data. Methods are stored as method files (*.mtw) in
the Methods directory.
Each system is linked to a method. This method is called proc-
essing method and is opened automatically at the start of a new
determination (for details, see section 7).
Sample queue
A sample queue is used for the automated processing of series
of samples, particularly in combination with a sample changer
(for details, see section 9).
System
The combination of Metrohm and Bischoff devices connected to
an interface is called a system. The system includes all the settings of the devices, their time program, the data acquisition parameters and the processing method which have been optimized
for the specific separating column and the determination to be
carried out with it. A system is used to start single determinations
or determinations with the help of a sample queue.
Systems are stored as system files (*.smt) in the Systems directory (for details, see section 4).
Workplace
The workplace contains all interfaces and devices connected
directly to the PC COM ports and all systems connected to the
interfaces. The icons of all these active interfaces, devices and
systems are shown on the toolbar. They can also be displayed in
the Workplace window opened by selecting the Options / Devices
setup menu item (for details, see section 3.3).
IC Net 2.0
7
2 Fundamentals of the operation
2.3 Overview of program windows
«IC Net 2.0» consists of different windows whose functionality is
linked together. The different windows are:
IC NET Main program window with menus for file
administration, printing, method modification, options, login and user rights, window
handling.
CHROMATOGRAM Chromatogram window for graphic plot of
running or recorded chromatograms.
SYSTEM System window for control of interfaces and
devices.
SYSTEM STATE System state window for status messages.
WATCH WINDOW Watch window for live display of instrument
values.
QUEUE EDITOR Queue editor window for edition of sample
2.4 Main window elements
The elements of the IC NET main window are the menu bar, the
toolbar and the status bar, indicating prompts and logged-in
user.
Menu bar
Toolbar
queue tables and batch reprocessing tables.
Status bar
Logged-in userPrompts, information
8
IC Net 2.0
2.5 Icons of the main window
The following icons are displayed in the IC NET main window:
Open chromatogram
Save chromatogram
Open last batch reprocessing file
Make report
Print preview
Send chromatograms to Autodatabase
Print chromatogram
Passport
2.5 Icons of the main window
Method setup
Integration
Components
Cascade all opened chromatogram windows
Vertical tiling of open chromatogram windows
Horizontal tiling of open chromatogram windows
Appearance
Enable/disable peak editor mode. If the Peak editor
mode is enabled, the peak editor icons appear.
View all
Help
Lock system
IC Net 2.0
762 IC Interface
771 Compact Interface
761 Compact IC
DAD 157
Connected system
Global timer
9
2 Fundamentals of the operation
2.6 Overview of file types
The following file types are produced by the «IC Net» software:
*.adb Autodatabase file
Contains chromatogram and method data of all determinations.
*.bar Batch reprocessing file (binary file)
Contains batch reprocessing data. The *.bar file is
stored automatically in the Data folder.
*.cal Calibration file (binary file)
Contains calibration data, which can be exported with
IC Net / Method / Calibration / Export calibration.
The *.cal file is stored automatically in the Methods
folder.
*.chw Chromatogram file (binary file)
Contains chromatogram, system and method data of a
determination.
The *.chw file is stored automatically in the Data folder.
*.exc Exception file (ASCII file)
Contains exceptions from normal running and error
messages.
The *.exc file is stored automatically in one of the day
subfolders of the Log folder.
*.hst History file (ASCII file)
Contains history of commands and program actions.
The *.hst file is stored automatically in one of the day
subfolders of the Log folder.
*.log Log file (ASCII file)
Contains log file of data communication between PC
and instruments.
The *.log file is stored automatically in one of the day
subfolders of the Log folder.
*.mtw Method file (binary file)
Contains the data acquisition method, which can be
linked to a system.
The *.mtw file is stored automatically in the Methods
folder.
10
*.que Sample queue file (binary file)
Contains a sample data table.
The *.que file is stored automatically in the Systems
folder.
IC Net 2.0
*.rtt Report file (ASCII file)
Contains a report template.
The *.rtt file is stored in the program folder.
*.smt System file (ASCII file)
Contains the system settings.
The *.smt file is stored automatically in the Systems
folder.
*.dev Device file (ASCII file)
Contains drivers for devices.
The *.dev file is stored in the Devices folder.
2.7 Context-sensitive menus
Some of the menu functions of the program windows are also
accessible by clicking on the desired window or item and pressing the right mouse button. The pop up windows have different
contents and functions depending on the selected active window
or item type.
2.7 Context-sensitive menus
2.8 Keyboard and mouse functions
The mouse can be used to carry out the normal program operating functions such as the selection of menu items and fields. It
can additionally be used for magnifying a section of a chromatogram (zooming). To zoom a portion of the plot it is necessary
to place the mouse cursor to the upper left corner of the square
to zoom, press the left mouse button and drag the cursor to the
lower right corner of the rectangle. After releasing of the left
mouse button the selected region will be zoomed full-screen. If
the cursor is active in the peak editor mode then it can be moved
by pressing down the right-hand mouse key.
The keyboard can also be used to scale a chromatogram in the
window, as described below.
Keyboard quick reference
Cursor is inactive:
[ up ] Increases sensitivity on the Y axis.
[ down ] Reduces sensitivity on the Y axis.
[ right ] Expands a chromatogram on the X axis.
IC Net 2.0
[ left ] Shrinks a chromatogram on the X axis.
[ Ctrl ] + [ Home ] Autoscale procedure on the X axis (shows
all on X).
[ Ctrl ] + [ End ] Autoscale procedure on the Y axis (shows
all on Y).
[ PageUp ] Shifts a chromatogram on 1/10 part of a
screen upwards.
11
2 Fundamentals of the operation
[ PageDown ] Shifts a chromatogram on 1/10 part of a
[ Shift ] + [ up ] Increases a distance between channels of
[ Shift ] + [ down ] Reduces a distance between channels of a
[ 0 (Zero) ] Adjusts a zero on the last point of a chro-
Only part of the chromatogram is on screen:
[ Ctrl ] + [ right ] Moves one window right (without change of
[ Ctrl ] + [ left ] Moves one window left (without change of
[ Home ] Shows the beginning of a chromatogram
[ End ] Shows the end of a chromatogram (without
screen downwards.
a chromatogram.
chromatogram.
matogram (running chromatogram) or its
lowest level (finished run).
scale on X and Y axes).
scale on X and Y axes).
(without change of scale on X and Y).
change of scale on X and Y).
2.9 Help
[ 0 (Zero) ] Adjusts a zero on the lowest level in the
window.
Cursor is active:
[ 0 (Zero) ] Adjust a zero in site of the cursor.
[ right ] Moves cursor left to right.
[ Shift ] + [ right ] Quickly moves cursor left to right.
[ left ] Moves cursor to the left.
[ Shift ] + [ left ] Quickly moves cursor to the left.
[ Home ] Moves cursor to beginning of a window.
[ End ] Moves the cursor to end of a window.
[ Shift ] + [ End ] Sets the beginning of a window in site of
the cursor.
[ Shift ] + [ Home ] Sets the end of a window in site of the cur-
sor.
By clicking on , by clicking on , by selecting the
Help / Contents menu item, or by pressing the [ F1 ] key you can
get on-line help on the current topic anywhere in the program.
12
Green texts can be clicked to jump to a different Help
topic.
Violet texts identify the dialog item, parameter or button
in the corresponding window.
Blue texts identify important information.
IC Net 2.0
3 Software settings
3.1 Fonts
IC NET / Options / Fonts
This option allows the selection of fonts used by the system.
Font for dialogs... Selection of font used for dialog boxes.
Default setting: MS Sans Serif / Standard / 8 pt.
Font for reports... Selection of font used for report output to the
screen or printer.
Default setting: Courier New / Standard / 10 pt.
3.1 Fonts
Font for tables... Selection of font used for data presentation in
Font for plots... Selection of font used for labels on chroma-
Save fonts configuration
3.2 Security system
The «IC Net» program has a security system based on the list of
users. Every user has his unique password and one of the following access levels:
tables on the screen. It is not used for presentation of tables in the report.
Default setting: MS Sans Serif / Bold / 8 pt.
togram plots and calibration curves.
Default setting: Times New Roman / Bold / 10 pt.
Save chosen font configuration.
If you want to reset the modified font settings to the
initial default settings, delete the fonts.cfg file in the
program path.
IC Net 2.0
Novice Restricted access to program functions. Al-
lows only start and stop of determinations using existing system and method files and
manual control of the devices. Modifications
of system, method and data files are not allowed.
Master Access to all program functions with few ex-
ceptions: the user cannot set Global prefer-
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3 Software settings
ences, open the Workplace window, change
hardware settings of interfaces and devices,
and change Security options.
Administrator Access to all program functions. This level
should be switched on only while installing the
system or in the case of configuration change.
The administrator user is authorized to change
access levels, names and passwords of other
users
It is recommended to make user lists and enter passwords as a
first action after software installation. So, select the menu item IC
NET / Options / Security and click on <Log In> in the IC Net login
window without entering a password. The Security options window
appears:
Enter user name, password and access level for all users. Don't
forget to make one of the user an Administrator, otherwise this
window will not open again. At the end, click on <OK>.
After configuration of the security system the program prompts
for the password every time the system starts. This user name
stamps all methods, chromatograms and reports. It is possible at
any time to change the user with the menu item IC NET / Options /
Lock system.
3.3 Global settings
IC NET / Options / Global preferences
This window is used for global program settings. It can be
opened only by the user with Administrator access level.
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IC Net 2.0
3.3 Global settings
Data file overwrite Global settings for overwriting of chroma-
togram files:
Never Chromatogram files cannot be overwritten.
A modified chromatogram is saved as new
file with the file name number raised by 1.
Ask The user is asked if the chromatogram
should be overwritten.
Always Chromatogram files are always overwritten
without confirmation.
If method changed Global settings for saving of method files:
Don't ask to save The method file is not saved automatically.
It can be saved only with File / Save /
Method.
Ask to save The user is asked if the method should be
saved.
Overwrite without asking
Method files are overwritten without confirmation.
If disk method is newer
Global settings for overwriting of method
files:
IC Net 2.0
Ask to overwrite The user is asked if the method should be
overwritten.
Overwrite without asking
Method files are overwritten without confirmation.
Opening chromatograms
Global settings for opening chromatograms:
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3 Software settings
Ignore last data directory
If this option is enabled, the directory is
opened where the current selected chromatogram is saved.
If this option is disabled, the directory is
opened where the last opened chromatogram is saved.
GLP On Switch on/off global GLP settings. The fol-
lowing parameter settings are automatically
set:
Data file overwrite = Never
If method changed = Don't ask to save
If disk method is newer = Ask to
overwrite
System face
Stacked recorder icons
If this option is enabled, only one recorder
icon with different tabs appears in the system window if several data recorders are
installed.
OK, Apply buttons mean
Save object to file If this option is enabled, the <Apply> button
in system settings windows is replaced by
the <Save> button. The system settings are
saved if the <Save> or <OK> button is
clicked.
with file name confirmation
If this option is enabled, the <Apply> button
in system settings windows is replaced by
the <Save as> button. The system settings
can be saved in a new file if the <Save as>
or <OK> button is clicked.
Chromatogram units Units for chromatograms:
Flow Unit for flow rate: µµL/min, mL/min
Pressure Unit for pressure: MPa, psi, bar, atm
Print via print spooler Switch on/off printing via print spooler.
Switch off this option if problems with
printing occur.
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Measuring priority Setting the priority of program execution.
realtime means that the «IC Net» program
has the highest priority, normal means that
all active programs have the same priority.
<Default colors> Default colors for chromatographic win-
dows (details see section 8.3.1).
IC Net 2.0
4 Systems
The combination of Metrohm and Bischoff devices connected to
an interface is called a system. The system includes all the settings of the devices, their time program, the data acquisition parameters and the processing method which have been optimized
for the specific separating column and the determination to be
carried out with it. A system is used to start single determinations
or determinations with the help of a sample queue. Systems are
stored as system files (*.smt) in the Systems directory.
4.1 System creation
4.1 System creation
4.1.1 System wizard
IC NET / File / New / System
The New system wizard window and a new SYSTEM window are
opened. The New system wizard guides you trough the installation
routine step-by-step to build a new systemsystem. The next step of the
system installation is reached with <Next>, the previous step with
<Back> and the installation is completed with <Finish>.
The first step of the system installation is to enter a name for a
new system folder within the «IC Net» program path
...\ICNet\Systems. For every instrument combination, a new folder
should be created.
IC Net 2.0
After clicking on <Next>, the window for addition of interfaces to
the toolbar appears. This step can be skipped if the desired interface has been already added to the toolbar (see section 5.1.2).
If this is not the case, the interface has to be selected from the
Metrohm Interfaces or Bischoff Interfaces groups. After selecting the
serial port where the interface is connected to and clicking on
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4 Systems
<Add to workplace>, the interface icon will appear on the toolbar
(PC Boards will not appear on toolbar).
After clicking on <Next>, the window for addition of devices (see
6.1.1) to the system window appears.
For every device to be controlled with «IC Net», open the group
which contains this device, select the device and the Serial port of
the interface where the device is connected to. After clicking on
<Add to system>, the device is added to the SYSTEM window. If
desired, an additional data recorder and a timer of the More mod-
ules group can be added to the system.
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After clicking on <Next>, the window for selection of processing
method linked to the system and data source appears (details
see section 6.12.2).
IC Net 2.0
4.1 System creation
Watch window
Data recorder
Devices
After clicking on <Finish>, the user is asked to save the new system as a system filesystem file (*.smt) in the new system folder. The new
system is now ready to start a determination (see section 4.3.3).
4.1.2 System window
A system window is opened with IC NET / File / Open / System and
the selection of the desired system file. It contains icons for Data
recorder, Watch window (screen) and all the devices installed
with the system wizard.
4.1.3 Add devices to an existing window
SYSTEM / Setup / New devices/ Install new device
Add new devices to the open SYSTEM window. For every device
to be added to the system, open the group which contains this
device and select the device and the serial port of the interface
where the device is connected to. After clicking on <Add to sys-
tem>, the device is added to the SYSTEM window. If desired, an
additional data recorder and a timer of the More modules group
can be added to the system.
IC Net 2.0
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4 Systems
4.2 System file handling
The following menu items are used for opening, changing, saving
and closing of systems:
IC NET / File / Open / System
Load an existing system file (*.smt) from the Systems directory
and open the corresponding SYSTEM window. The name of the
folder and of the system file are displayed in the title bar of the
SYSTEM window. A star ( * ) at the end of the name indicates that
the system settings have been changed since the last saving.
SYSTEM / System / Open other
Load an existing system file (*.smt) from the desired system folder
in the Systems directory and open a new SYSTEM window for parameter settings. The old system remains connected.
SYSTEM / System / Change
Open the selected new system in the desired system folder. The
current system is disconnected and closed, and the new system
is connected.
SYSTEM / System / Save
Save the current system file (*.smt) in the desired folder of the
Systems directory.
SYSTEM / System / Close
Close the selected system.
Delete a system
To delete an existing system, delete the *.smt file in the Systems
folder.
4.3 System functions
4.3.1 Connect and disconnect system
To make possible manual control of the system devices and start
of determinations, the selected system must be connected to the
workplace. Systems are connected and disconnected as follows:
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SYSTEM / Control / Connect to workplace
Connect selected system to the workplace. Only one system from
the same system folder can be connected at the same time.
The icon appears on the toolbar. If this icon is clicked, the
SYSTEM window is always displayed in front of all other windows.
IC Net 2.0
SYSTEM / Control / Disconnect from workplace
Disconnect selected system from the workplace. If a system is
disconnected, manual control is not available for this system, but
all other system settings can be modified and saved. Start deter-
mination and Startup hardware is only possible if no other system
from the same system folder is connected. In this case, the system is automatically connected.
4.3.2 Start/stop hardware and record baseline
SYSTEM / Control / Startup hardware (Measure Baseline)
With this menu item the following actions are executed automatically:
• Send System startup values to the devices.
• Start Metrohm solvent delivery systems and Bischoff solvent
delivery systems.
4.3 System functions
• Start Metrohm additional modules and Bischoff additional
modules.
• Start Bischoff detectors.
• Switch Metrohm Autosamplers and Bischoff Autosamplers to
remote control.
• Start recording of the measurement signal using the method of
the connected system. Independently of the set chromatogram
Duration, the measurement signal is recorded until the data
acquisition is stopped if a new determination is started with
Start determination or by clicking the icon of the chroma-
togram window. In this case the user is asked if the recorded
baseline should be saved or not.
SYSTEM / Control / Shutdown hardware
With this menu item the devices are stopped as follows:
• Stop Metrohm solvent delivery systems and Bischoff solvent
delivery systems.
• Stop Metrohm additional modules and Bischoff additional
modulesVariotherm.
• Stop Bischoff detectors.
IC Net 2.0
• Switch Metrohm Autosamplers and Bischoff Autosamplers to
local control.
• Stop running determination.
• Stop active sample queue.
SYSTEM / Control / Stop data acquisition
Stop recording of the baseline.
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4 Systems
4.3.3 Start/stop determinations
SYSTEM / Control / Start determination
Start determination using the settings of the selected system.
At this start command, the System startup values are set at the devices. The time programs of the different devices and the data
recording are started either immediately (Start with determination)
or after switching the injection valve to the "Inject" position (Start
with inject) as set in the Start mode window.
SYSTEM / Control / Stop determination
Stop running determination. Data acquisition and time pro-
grams are terminated immediately. The recorded chromatogram
is saved automatically if the Save chromatogram after the run option
on the Passport / Processing tab is enabled.
Alternatively the determination can be stopped by clicking the
icon of the chromatogram window. In this case the user is asked
always if the determination should be saved or not.
If the Auto restart option is enabled or if a sample queue
is active, a new determination is started immediately
after the running determination is stopped. If you want
to avoid this, disable the Auto restart option or Pause the
sample queue.
SYSTEM / Control / Stop data acquisition
Stop data acquisition of the running determination immediately
and save the recorded chromatogram automatically if the Save
chromatogram after the run option on the Passport / Processing tab
is enabled. The time programs of the running determination are
continued normally.
4.3.4 Options for determinations
SYSTEM / Control / Auto restart
If this option is enabled, a new determination is started automatically using the current system after the preceding determination
has been finished normally or stopped manually.
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The Auto restart option is disabled if determinations are made
with an active sample queue. This option allows to make an infinite batch cycle with the current system
SYSTEM / Control / Verify sample
If this option is enabled, the Edit sample description window is
opened automatically at the start of each determination for entry
of the following sample information:
IC Net 2.0
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