Metrohm IC Net 2.1 User Manual
CH-9101 Herisau/Switzerland
Internet www.metrohm.com
E-Mail info@metrohm.com
6.6034.013
Metrodata
IC Net 2.1
8.110.8223 Software Manual
11.05.2001 / dö
All Rights Reserved.
Printed in Switzerland by Metrohm AG, CH-9101 Herisau 2001
Table of contents
Table of contents
1 Introduction
1.1 Purpose of program...................................................................... 1
1.2 Information about the software manual .................................... 1
1.3 Notation and pictograms ............................................................. 3
1.4 Installation...................................................................................... 4
1.4.1 Hardware requirements for the PC................................. 4
1.4.2 Software Installation ....................................................... 4
1.4.3 Software update ............................................................. 5
1.4.4 Software deinstallation ................................................... 6
1.4.5 Demo version ................................................................. 6
1.4.6 Registration..................................................................... 6
............................................................................................
2 Fundamentals of the operation
2.1 Starting/closing the program ...................................................... 7
2.1.1 Start the « IC Net» program ............................................ 7
2.1.2 Close the « IC Net» program .......................................... 7
2.2 Glossary.......................................................................................... 8
2.3 Overview of program windows................................................. 10
...............................................
1
7
2.4 Main window elements............................................................... 10
2.5 Icons of the main window.......................................................... 11
2.6 Overview of file types................................................................. 12
2.7 Context-sensitive menus ........................................................... 13
2.8 Keyboard and mouse functions ............................................... 13
2.9 Help................................................................................................ 14
3 Software settings
3.1 Fonts ............................................................................................. 15
3.2 Security system........................................................................... 15
3.3 Global settings ............................................................................ 16
4 Systems
4.1 System creation........................................................................... 19
..................................................................................................
4.1.1 System wizard .............................................................. 19
4.1.2 System window............................................................. 21
4.1.3 Add devices to an existing window.............................. 21
............................................................................
15
19
IC Net 2.1
4.2 System file handling ................................................................... 22
I
Table of contents
4.3 System functions ........................................................................ 22
4.3.1 Connect and disconnect system.................................. 22
4.3.2 Start/stop hardware and record baseline..................... 23
4.3.3 Start/stop determinations ............................................. 24
4.3.4 Options for determinations........................................... 24
4.4 System settings........................................................................... 26
4.4.1 Modify system window ................................................. 26
4.4.2 Watch window display.................................................. 26
4.4.3 Set start mode .............................................................. 26
4.4.4 Install new devices........................................................ 27
4.4.5 Install existing devices.................................................. 27
4.4.6 Print system parameters............................................... 27
4.4.7 Show system parameters............................................. 28
4.4.8 Links.............................................................................. 28
4.5 System state window.................................................................. 28
4.5.1 Status messages.......................................................... 28
4.5.2 General error messages............................................... 29
4.5.3 Error messages for 761 Compact IC ........................... 29
5 Interfaces
5.1 Interface installation ................................................................... 31
5.1.1 Add interfaces with system wizard ............................... 31
5.1.2 Add interfaces in workplace window............................ 32
5.1.3 Delete interfaces........................................................... 32
5.2 762 IC Interface ............................................................................ 33
5.2.1 762 IC Interface features .............................................. 33
5.2.2 762 icon on the toolbar................................................. 33
5.2.3 762 icons in the system window................................... 33
5.2.4 762 IC Interface window ............................................... 34
5.2.5 762 Event output lines .................................................. 36
5.3 771 Compact Interface................................................................ 40
5.3.1 771 Compact Interface features................................... 40
5.3.2 771 icon on the toolbar................................................. 40
5.3.3 771 Compact Interface window.................................... 40
5.4 Metrohm PC Board...................................................................... 42
5.5 Global timer.................................................................................. 43
5.5.1 Timer icon ..................................................................... 43
5.5.2 Timer program .............................................................. 43
..............................................................................................
31
II
IC Net 2.1
Table of contents
6 Devices
6.1 Device installation....................................................................... 45
6.2 Watch window.............................................................................. 47
6.3 732 IC Detector ............................................................................ 49
6.4 761 Compact IC ........................................................................... 56
...................................................................................................
6.1.1 Install devices at system creation ................................ 45
6.1.2 Install new devices in system window.......................... 46
6.1.3 Install existing devices in system window .................... 46
6.1.4 Delete devices .............................................................. 46
6.2.1 Watch window icon ...................................................... 47
6.2.2 Watch window settings................................................. 47
6.3.1 732 IC Detector features .............................................. 49
6.3.2 732 IC Detector icon..................................................... 49
6.3.3 732 IC Detector window ............................................... 50
6.4.1 761 Compact IC features ............................................. 56
6.4.2 761 Compact IC icon ................................................... 56
6.4.3 761 Compact IC window .............................................. 57
6.4.4 Hardware settings ........................................................ 63
45
6.5 817 Bioscan.................................................................................. 67
6.5.1 817 Bioscan features.................................................... 67
6.5.2 817 Bioscan icon.......................................................... 67
6.5.3 817 Bioscan window .................................................... 67
6.6 733 IC Separation Center ........................................................... 75
6.6.1 733 IC Separation Center features............................... 75
6.6.2 733 IC Separation Center icon ..................................... 75
6.6.3 733 IC Separation Center window................................ 76
6.7 709 IC Pump ................................................................................. 77
6.7.1 709 IC Pump features................................................... 77
6.7.2 709 IC Pump icon......................................................... 78
6.7.3 709 IC Pump window ................................................... 78
6.8 Metrohm solvent delivery unit .................................................. 80
6.8.1 Metrohm SDU features................................................. 80
6.8.2 Metrohm SDU icon ....................................................... 81
6.8.3 Metrohm SDU window.................................................. 81
6.7 752 Pump Unit.............................................................................. 85
6.7.1 752 Pump Unit features................................................ 85
6.7.2 752 Pump Unit icon...................................................... 85
6.7.3 752 Pump Unit window ................................................ 85
IC Net 2.1
6.8 753 Suppressor Module ............................................................. 88
6.8.1 753 Suppressor Module features................................. 88
6.8.2 753 Suppressor Module icon ....................................... 88
6.8.3 753 Suppressor Module window.................................. 88
6.9 754 Dialysis Unit.......................................................................... 91
6.9.1 754 Dialysis Unit features ............................................. 91
6.9.2 754 Dialysis Unit icon ................................................... 91
6.9.3 754 Dialysis Unit window.............................................. 91
III
Table of contents
6.10 793 Sample Prep Module ........................................................... 94
6.10.1 793 Sample Prep Module features............................... 94
6.10.2 793 Sample Prep Module icon ..................................... 94
6.10.3 793 Sample Prep Module window................................ 94
6.11 812 Valve Unit .............................................................................. 97
6.11.1 812 Valve Unit features................................................. 97
6.11.2 812 Valve Unit icon ....................................................... 97
6.11.3 812 Valve Unit window.................................................. 98
6.12 816 IC Eluent Selector .............................................................. 100
6.12.1 816 IC Eluent Selector features .................................. 100
6.12.2 816 IC Eluent Selector icon ........................................ 100
6.12.3 816 IC Eluent Selector window................................... 100
6.13 750 Autosampler ....................................................................... 103
6.13.1 750 Autosampler features .......................................... 103
6.13.2 750 Autosampler icon................................................. 103
6.13.3 750 Autosampler window ........................................... 104
6.14 766 IC Sample Processor......................................................... 107
6.14.1 766 IC Sample Processor features............................. 107
6.14.2 766 IC Sample Processor icon................................... 107
6.14.3 766 IC Sample Processor window ............................. 108
6.15 788 IC Filtration Sample Processor........................................ 116
6.16 Data recorder .............................................................................125
6.17 System timer .............................................................................. 127
7 Methods
7.1 Method file handling ................................................................. 129
7.2 Passport...................................................................................... 129
6.15.1 788 IC Filtration Sample Processor features.............. 116
6.15.2 788 IC Filtration Sample Processor icon .................... 116
6.15.3 788 IC Filtration Sample Processor window............... 117
6.16.1 Data recorder icon...................................................... 125
6.16.2 Select processing method and data source.............. 125
6.17.1 Timer icon ................................................................... 127
6.17.2 Timer program ............................................................ 127
...............................................................................................
7.2.1 General ....................................................................... 130
7.2.2 Sample........................................................................ 131
7.2.3 Column ....................................................................... 132
7.2.4 Eluent.......................................................................... 133
7.2.5 Comment .................................................................... 134
7.2.6 Method Log ................................................................ 134
7.2.7 Data Log ..................................................................... 135
129
IV
7.3 Method setup .............................................................................136
7.3.1 General ....................................................................... 136
7.3.2 Measure...................................................................... 136
7.3.3 Filters .......................................................................... 137
7.3.4 Processing.................................................................. 138
7.3.5 Math............................................................................ 139
IC Net 2.1
Table of contents
7.4 Integration .................................................................................. 141
7.4.1 General information.................................................... 141
7.4.2 Setup .......................................................................... 142
7.4.3 Events ......................................................................... 144
7.5 Calibration and quantification ................................................ 149
7.5.1 General information.................................................... 149
7.5.2 Notations .................................................................... 150
7.5.3 External standard calibration...................................... 151
7.5.4 Component table........................................................ 151
7.5.5 Peak identification ...................................................... 154
7.5.6 Concentration table .................................................... 155
7.5.7 Calibration curve......................................................... 157
7.5.8 Update calibration ...................................................... 159
7.5.9 Calibration data handling ........................................... 160
7.6 Report output............................................................................. 161
7.6.1 Report options window............................................... 161
7.6.2 Items to report ............................................................ 162
7.6.3 More items to report ................................................... 164
7.6.4 Report destination ...................................................... 167
7.6.5 Peak table................................................................... 167
7.6.6 Template options........................................................ 170
7.6.7 File output options...................................................... 170
7.6.8 Report elements ......................................................... 171
8 Chromatograms
8.1 Chromatogram window............................................................ 175
8.2 Chromatogram file handling ................................................... 176
8.2.1 Open chromatogram.................................................. 176
8.2.2 Save chromatogram................................................... 178
8.2.3 Close chromatogram.................................................. 178
8.2.4 Delete chromatogram ................................................ 178
8.2.5 Export chromatogram ................................................ 178
8.2.6 Import chromatogram ................................................ 179
8.3 Graphical representation ......................................................... 180
8.3.1 Appearance ................................................................ 180
8.3.2 Other graphical functions ........................................... 184
8.4 Peak editor ................................................................................. 185
8.4.1 Switching on/off the peak editor................................. 185
8.4.2 Peak editor functions.................................................. 185
8.4.3 Moving the cursor....................................................... 186
8.5 Printing ....................................................................................... 187
8.5.1 Page layout for printing .............................................. 187
8.5.2 Printer settings............................................................ 188
8.5.3 Print preview ............................................................... 188
8.5.4 Printing........................................................................ 188
............................................................................
175
IC Net 2.1
V
Table of contents
8.6 Miscellaneous functions .......................................................... 189
8.6.1 Reintegration .............................................................. 189
8.6.2 Recalibration............................................................... 189
8.6.3 Subtraction of a chromatogram ................................. 189
8.6.4 Data compression ...................................................... 190
8.6.5 Invert chromatogram .................................................. 190
8.6.6 Autodatabase ............................................................. 191
9 Sample queue
9.1 Sample queue file handling ..................................................... 193
9.1.1 Open sample queue................................................... 193
9.1.2 Save sample queue.................................................... 193
9.1.3 Delete sample queue ................................................. 193
9.2 Sample queue control .............................................................. 194
9.2.1 Sample queue overview table .................................... 194
9.2.2 Start sample queue .................................................... 195
9.2.3 Pause sample queue.................................................. 195
9.2.4 Cancel last run............................................................ 196
9.2.5 Reset sample queue................................................... 196
9.3 Sample queue editor................................................................. 196
9.3.1 Open queue editor window ........................................ 196
9.3.2 Sample queue editor functions .................................. 197
9.3.3 Print sample queue..................................................... 198
9.3.4 Close sample queue editor ........................................ 198
.................................................................................
10 Batch reprocessing
10.1 Batch reprocessing queue file handling ............................... 199
10.1.1 Open batch reprocessing queue ............................... 199
10.1.2 Create new batch reprocessing queue...................... 199
10.1.3 Save batch reprocessing queue ................................ 200
....................................................................
193
199
VI
10.2 Perform batch reprocessing.................................................... 200
10.2.1 Reprocess options window ........................................ 200
10.2.2 Merge chromatograms............................................... 204
10.3 Batch reprocessing queue editor ........................................... 205
10.3.1 Open batch reprocessing queue editor window........ 205
10.3.2 Batch reprocessing queue editor functions ............... 206
10.3.3 Print batch reprocessing queue ................................. 206
10.3.4 Close batch reprocessing queue editor..................... 206
11 Appendix
11.1 Software license ........................................................................ 207
11.2 Ordering designations.............................................................. 207
11.3 Index ............................................................................................ 209
.............................................................................................
IC Net 2.1
207
1.1 Purpose of program
1 Introduction
1.1 Purpose of program
«ICNet 2.1» 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, Windows NT and Windows 2000 and
uses all its benefits.
The «ICNet 2.1» 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.
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 8.110.8223 Software Manual provides a comprehensive
overview of the operation of the «IC Net» program. The manual is
organized as follows:
IC Net 2.1
Section 1 Introduction
Installation
Section 2 Fundamentals of the operation
Program elements and features
Section 3 Software settings
Fonts, security system, global settings
1
1 Introduction
Section 4 Systems
Creation of new systems, interfaces and devices,
determinations
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.com». 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".
2
IC Net 2.1
1.3 Notation and pictograms
1.3 Notation and pictograms
The following notations are used in this software manual:
Range
SYSTEM STATE
<OK>
[ Ctrl ] Key
Menu item, parameter or entry value
Program window
Button
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.
IC Net 2.1
3
1 Introduction
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,
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
Windows¥ NT or Windows¥ 2000
50 MB recommended for data files
dows® 98, 64 MB for Windows® NT,
128 MB for Windows¥ 2000
ing system
If you want to update from IC Net 2.0 to IC Net 2.1, proceed as
described in section 1.4.3.
Insert installation CD into CD drive. Select
the file
setup.exe
on the CD and click on
<OK>
<Start>
and
. Click on
Run
IC Net
. Find
the selection menu and follow the setup program instructions.
The two software packages «IC Net 2.1» 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 following folders are installed:
Folder for storage of chromatogram files (
Data
and batch reprocessing files (
) with several
*.bar
examples.
Devices
Log
Methods
Folder for storage of device files.(
Folder for storage of exception files.(
tory files (
), and log files (
*.hst
Folder for storage of data acquisition method
files (
) and sample queue files (
*.mtw
*.log
*.dev
).
).
*.exc
*.que
several examples.
in
*.chw
), his-
) with
)
4
Reports
Systems
Folder for storage of report files (*) and graphic
files (
Folder for storage of system files (
*.wmf
).
*.smt
).
IC Net 2.1
1.4 Installation
1.4.3 Software update
For software update from IC Net 2.0 to IC Net 2.1, proceed as follows:
1. Switch on PC and start operating system.
2. If you want to save chromatograms, methods and system files
created by IC Net 2.0, backup the folders
Systems
in another directory on the hard disk.
Data, Methods
, and
Systems of IC Net 2.0 containing 761 Compact IC icons cannot be used in IC Net 2.1 any more. Delete these systems before making the backup of the
Systems
folder.
3. If you want to save data created by Autodatabase 1.0, backup
the folders
Filters, Report templates
, and
User database
in an-
other directory on the hard disk.
4. Deinstall the IC Net 2.0 software by selecting
/ Control panel
Metrohm IC Net 2.0
, double-clicking the
in the list and clicking on
Software
<Start>
icon, selecting
<Add/remove>
program files and icons should be removed.
5. Delete the folder
IC Net 2.0
in the program folder.
6. Install the IC Net 2.1 software (see section 1.4.2).
7. Copy the IC Net 2.0 backup files of the folders
and
Systems
2.1\IC Net\Methods
into the folders
, and
..\IC Net 2.1\IC Net\Systems
..\IC Net 2.1\IC Net\Data, ..\IC Net
Data, Methods
.
8. Copy the Autodatabase backup files of the folders
port templates
2.1\Autodatabase\Filters
, and
plates
, and
User database
..\IC Net 2.1\Autodatabase\User database
,
..\IC Net 2.1\Autodatabase\Report tem-
into the folders
..\IC Net
.
/
Settings
. All
Filters, Re-
,
IC Net 2.1
5
1 Introduction
1.4.4 Software deinstallation
Select
icon. Select
<Add/remove>
1.4.5 Demo version
If the «IC Net Software 2.1» is installed on a PC without installation 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.
1.4.6 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.
<Start>
/
Settings / Control panel.
Metrohm IC Net 2.1
. All program files and icons should be removed.
Double-click the
in the list and click on
Software
6
IC Net 2.1
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
program. The
IC Net
login window appears:
ICNet.exe
file to start the «IC Net 2.1»
Enter your password and click on
After software installation, the program can be started without
entering a
2.1.2 Close the «IC Net» program
IC NET / File / Exit (Alt+F4)
Exit the «IC Net 2.1» program.
The program is also quit by clicking on in the upper right part
of the main window.
Password
<Log In>
. For the definition of users, see section 3.2.
.
IC Net 2.1
7
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 (
directory. As well as the measuring data the chromatogram
Data
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 de-
vice. Devices are stored as device files (
rectory. All Metrohm devices start with
devices start with
Bi*.dev
) in the
*.dev
Me*.dev
and all Bischoff
(for details, see section 6).
*.chw
Devices
) in the
di-
8
Integration
Integration is to be understood as being the method for determining the peak area and peak height with the aid of approximate
baselines. The integration algorithm included in the program is in-
IC Net 2.1
2.2 Glossary
fluenced 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).
Interface
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
di-
rectory. All Metrohm interfaces and Metrohm devices start
with
with
Me*.dev
Bi*.dev
; all Bischoff interfaces and Bischoff devices start
(for details, see section 5).
Method
A method contains all information necessary for data acquisition, 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 (
the
Methods
directory.
*.mtw
) in
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 (
tory (for details, see section 4).
Workplace
The workplace contains all interfaces and systems connected to
the PC COM. The icons of all these active interfaces and systems
are shown on the toolbar. They can also be displayed in the
window opened by selecting the
place
menu item (for details, see section 3.3).
) in the
*.smt
Options / Devices setup
Systems
direc-
Work-
IC Net 2.1
9
2 Fundamentals of the operation
2.3 Overview of program windows
«IC Net 2.1» consists of different windows whose functionality is
linked together. The different windows are:
IC NET
CHROMATOGRAM
SYSTEM
SYSTEM STATE
WATCH WINDOW
QUEUE EDITOR
Main program window with menus for file
System window for control of interfaces and
System state window for status messages.
Watch window for live display of instrument
Queue editor window for edition of sample
2.4 Main window elements
administration, printing, method modification, options, login and user rights, window
handling.
Chromatogram window for graphic plot of
running or recorded chromatograms.
devices.
values.
queue tables and batch reprocessing tables.
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
Status bar
Prompts, information
Logged-in user
10
IC Net 2.1
2.5 Icons of the main window
2.5 Icons of the main window
The following icons are displayed in the
IC NET
Open chromatogram
Save chromatogram
Open last batch reprocessing file
Make report
Print preview
Send chromatograms to Autodatabase
Print chromatogram
Passport
Method setup
Integration
Components
main window:
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
762 IC Interface
771 Compact Interface
Connected system
IC Net 2.1
Global timer
11
2 Fundamentals of the operation
2.6 Overview of file types
The following file types are produced by the «IC Net» software:
Autodatabase file
*.adb
Contains chromatogram and method data of all determinations.
Batch reprocessing file (binary file)
*.bar
Contains batch reprocessing data. The
stored automatically in the
Calibration file (binary file)
*.cal
Contains calibration data, which can be exported with
Net / Method / Calibration / Export calibration
The
*.cal
folder.
Chromatogram file (binary file)
*.chw
Contains chromatogram, system and method data of a
determination.
The
*.chw
*.bar
folder.
Data
file is stored automatically in the
file is stored automatically in the
file is
.
Methods
folder.
Data
IC
Exception file (ASCII file)
*.exc
Contains exceptions from normal running and error
messages.
The
file is stored automatically in one of the day
*.exc
subfolders of the
History file (ASCII file)
*.hst
Contains history of commands and program actions.
The
file is stored automatically in one of the day
*.hst
subfolders of the
Log file (ASCII file)
*.log
Contains log file of data communication between PC
and instruments.
The
file is stored automatically in one of the day
*.log
subfolders of the
Method file (binary file)
*.mtw
Contains the data acquisition method, which can be
linked to a system.
The
file is stored automatically in the
*.mtw
folder.
Log
Log
Log
folder.
folder.
folder.
Methods
12
Sample queue file (binary file)
*.que
Contains a sample data table.
The
file is stored automatically in the
*.que
folder.
Systems
IC Net 2.1
2.7 Context-sensitive menus
Report file (ASCII file)
*.rtt
Contains a report template.
The
System file (ASCII file)
*.smt
file is stored in the program folder.
*.rtt
Contains the system settings.
The
file is stored automatically in the
*.smt
Systems
folder.
Device file (ASCII file)
*.dev
Contains drivers for devices.
The
file is stored in the
*.dev
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.
2.8 Keyboard and mouse functions
The mouse can be used to carry out the normal program operat-
ing 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 2.1
[ 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.
13
2 Fundamentals of the operation
[ PageDown ] Shifts a chromatogram on 1/10 part of a
[ Shift ] + [ up ] Increases a distance between channels of a
[ 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.
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.
14
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 2.1
3.1 Fonts
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:
Font for reports...
Selection of font used for report output to the
screen or printer.
Default setting: Courier New / Standard / 10 pt.
Font for tables...
Selection of font used for data presentation in
tables on the screen. It is not used for presentation of tables in the report.
Default setting:
Font for plots...
Selection of font used for labels on chroma-
togram plots and calibration curves.
Default setting:
Save fonts configuration
Save chosen font configuration.
If you want to reset the modified font settings to the
initial default settings, delete the
program path.
MS Sans Serif / Standard / 8 pt.
MS Sans Serif / Bold / 8 pt.
Times New Roman / Bold / 10 pt.
fonts.cfg
file in the
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:
Restricted access to program functions. Al-
Access to all program functions with few ex-
IC Net 2.1
Novice
Master
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.
ceptions: the user cannot set
Global prefer-
15
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
NET / O
ptions / Security
and click on
<Log In>
window without entering a password. The
in the
Security options
IC Net
login
IC
window
appears:
Enter user name, password and access level for all users. Don't
forget to make one of the user an
window will not open again. At the end, click on
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
L
ock 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
, otherwise this
.
<OK>
IC NET / Options /
.
Administrator
access level.
16
IC Net 2.1
3.3 Global settings
Data file overwrite
Chromatogram files cannot be overwritten.
Never
Ask
Always
If method changed
Don't ask to save
Ask to save
Overwrite without asking
If disk method is newer
Chromatogram files are always overwritten
Global settings for overwriting of chroma-
Global settings for saving of method files:
The method file is not saved automatically.
togram files:
A modified chromatogram is saved as new
file with the file name number raised by 1.
The user is asked if the chromatogram
should be overwritten.
without confirmation.
It can be saved only with
ethod
.
M
File
/
Save /
The user is asked if the method should be
saved.
Method files are overwritten without confirmation.
Global settings for overwriting of method
files:
IC Net 2.1
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:
17
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
System face
OK, Apply buttons mean
Switch on/off global GLP settings. The fol-
Stacked recorder icons
Save object to file
with file name confirmation
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
If this option is enabled, only one recorder
icon with different tabs appears in the system window if several data recorders are
installed.
If this option is enabled, the
<Apply>
button
in system settings windows is replaced by
the
<Save>
saved if the
button. The system settings are
<Save>
or
<OK>
button is
clicked.
If this option is enabled, the
<Apply>
button
in system settings windows is replaced by
the
<Save as>
can be saved in a new file if the
or
<OK>
button. The system settings
button is clicked.
<Save as>
18
Chromatogram units
Flow
Pressure
Print via print spooler
<Default colors>
Default colors for chromatographic win-
Units for chromatograms:
Unit for flow rate:
Unit for pressure:
PPPPL/min
MPa, psi, bar, atm
,
mL/min
Switch on/off printing via print spooler.
Switch off this option if problems with printing occur.
dows (details see section 8.3.1).
IC Net 2.1
4.1 System creation
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 (
4.1 System creation
*.smt
) in the
Systems
directory.
4.1.1 System wizard
IC NET / File / New / System
The
New system wizard
opened. The
routine step-by-step to build a new system
system installation is reached with
<Back>
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
should be created.
window and a new
New system wizard
guides you trough the installation
system. The next step of the
systemsystem
<Next>
SYSTEM
, the previous step with
and the installation is completed with
. For every instrument combination, a new folder
window are
<Finish>
.
IC Net 2.1
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
19
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
the interface where the device is connected to. After clicking on
<Add to system>
, the device is added to the
SYSTEM
desired, an additional data recorder and a timer of the
group can be added to the system.
ules
window. If
More mod-
of
20
After clicking on
<Next>
, the window for selection of processing
method linked to the system and data source appears (details
see section 6.16.2).
IC Net 2.1
4.1 System creation
After clicking on
tem as a system file
system is now ready to start a determination (see section 4.3.3).
4.1.2 System window
A system window is opened with
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.
Watch window
<Finish>
system file (
system filesystem file
, the user is asked to save the new sys-
) in the new system folder. The new
*.smt
IC NET / File / Open / System
and
4.1.3 Add devices to an existing window
SYSTEM / Setup / New devices/ Install new device
Add new devices to the open
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
, the device is added to the
tem>
additional data recorder and a timer of the
can be added to the system.
IC Net 2.1
SYSTEM
SYSTEM
Devices
window. For every device
<Add to sys-
window. If desired, an
More modules
group
21
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 (
open the corresponding
and of the system file are displayed in the title bar of the
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 (
in the
rameter 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.
Systems
) from the
*.smt
SYSTEM
window. The name of the folder
) from the desired system folder
*.smt
directory and open a new
Systems
SYSTEM
directory and
SYSTEM
window for pa-
SYSTEM / System / Save
Save the current system file (
Systems
SYSTEM / System / Close
directory.
Close the selected system.
Delete a system
To delete an existing system, delete the
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:
) in the desired folder of the
*.smt
file in the
*.smt
Systems
22
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 2.1
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