Metrohm tiamo 2.1 User Manual

tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

Online Help

8.101.8016EN

Metrohm AG CH-9101 Herisau Switzerland

Phone [phone] Fax [phone] [e-mail] www.metrohm.com

tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

Online Help

8.101.8016EN

09.2009 doe/ek/pkl

Teachware Metrohm AG CH-9101 Herisau

[e-mail]

This documentation is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Although all the information given in this documentation has been checked with great care, errors cannot be entirely excluded. Should you notice any mistakes please send us your comments using the address given above.

Table of contents

Table of contents

1 Introduction		1
1.1	Welcome to tiamo ................................................................	1
1.2	Operation ............................................................................	2
1.3	Connecting devices ...............................................................	3
1.4	Method editor ......................................................................	4
1.5	Database ...............................................................................	4
1.6	Communication .....................................................................	5
1.7	Conformity ...........................................................................	6
1.8	Versions ................................................................................	7
1.9	Online help ...........................................................................	8
1.10	What is new in tiamo 2.1? ...................................................	9
1.10.1	New features ...........................................................................	9
1.10.2 Fixed bugs and problems .........................................................		9

2 General program functions		11
2.1	Program parts .....................................................................	11
2.1.1	Program parts ........................................................................	11
2.1.2	Workplace - Desktop .............................................................	12
2.1.3	Database - Desktop ...............................................................	12
2.1.4	Method - Desktop ..............................................................	13
2.1.5	Configuration - Desktop ........................................................	13
2.1.6	Manual control - Desktop ......................................................	14
2.2	Login/password protection ................................................	14
2.2.1	General information on Login/Password protection ...............	14
2.2.2	Login .....................................................................................	15
2.2.3	Log out manually ..................................................................	16
2.2.4	Log out automatically ............................................................	16
2.2.5	Changing password ...............................................................	16
2.3	Electronic signatures ..........................................................	17
2.3.1	Rules for electronic signatures ...............................................	17
2.3.2	Procedure for electronic signatures ........................................	18
2.3.3	Signature Level 1 ...................................................................	19
2.3.4	Signature Level 2 ...................................................................	20
2.3.5	Delete Signature Level 2 ........................................................	22
2.4	Formula editor ....................................................................	23
2.4.1	Input field ..............................................................................	23
2.4.2	Calculation algorithms ...........................................................	24
2.4.3	Variables ...............................................................................	26
2.4.4	Operators/functions ...............................................................	44

tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

III

Table of contents
2.4.5	Molar mass calculator ............................................................	78
2.5	Editing .................................................................................	79
2.5.1	Select date ............................................................................	79
2.5.2	Text editor .............................................................................	79
2.5.3	Hyperlink ...............................................................................	81
2.6	E-mail ...................................................................................	81
2.6.1	Send E-mail ...........................................................................	81
3 Workplace		82
3.1	Workplace - General .........................................................	82
3.1.1	Workplace - Definition ...........................................................	82
3.1.2	Workplace - Desktop .............................................................	82
3.1.3	Workplace - Menu bar ...........................................................	82
3.1.4	Workplace - Toolbar ..............................................................	84
3.1.5	Workplace - Subwindows ......................................................	85
3.1.6	Workplace - Functions ...........................................................	86
3.1.7	Views ....................................................................................	87
3.2	Workplaces .........................................................................	90
3.2.1	Create new workplace ...........................................................	90
3.2.2	Edit workplace .......................................................................	90
3.2.3	Displaying workplaces ...........................................................	91
3.2.4	Close workplace ....................................................................	92
3.3	Sample tables ......................................................................	92
3.3.1	Editing the sample table ........................................................	92
3.3.2	Sample table - Properties .....................................................	102
3.3.3	Sample table manager .........................................................	111
3.4	Sample assignment table .................................................	113
3.4.1	Sample assignment table ..................................................	113
3.4.2	Sample assignment .............................................................	114
3.4.3	Enter assignment ID .............................................................	115
3.5	Text templates ..................................................................	115
3.5.1	List of text templates ...........................................................	115
3.5.2	Edit text template ................................................................	116
3.6	Subwindow Run ..............................................................	116
3.6.1	Run - General ......................................................................	116
3.6.2	Run test ...............................................................................	117
3.6.3	Single determination ............................................................	118
3.6.4	Determination series ............................................................	133
3.7	Subwindow Method .........................................................	164
3.7.1	Method window - General ..................................................	164
3.7.2	Method window - Zoom .....................................................	164
3.7.3	Method window - Live modifications ...................................	165
3.7.4	Method window - Cancel command ....................................	166
3.8	Subwindow Live display ..................................................	166
3.8.1	Live display - General ...........................................................	166
3.8.2	Live display - Tracks .............................................................	166

IV	tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

		Table of contents
3.8.3	Live display - Application note .............................................	168
3.8.4	Live display - Messages ........................................................	168
3.8.5	Live display - Properties ........................................................	168
3.9	Subwindow Report .........................................................	175
3.9.1	Report - General .................................................................	175
3.9.2	Latest report .......................................................................	175
3.9.3	Selected report ...................................................................	175
3.9.4	Report overview .................................................................	176
3.9.5	Properties report overview ...................................................	176
4 Database		177
4.1	Database - General ...........................................................	177
4.1.1	Database - Definition ...........................................................	177
4.1.2	Database - Desktop .............................................................	177
4.1.3	Database - Menu bar ...........................................................	178
4.1.4	Database - Toolbar ..............................................................	182
4.1.5	Database - Subwindows ......................................................	184
4.1.6	Database - Functions ..........................................................	184
4.1.7	Views ..................................................................................	185
4.2	Database display ..............................................................	188
4.2.1	Opening database ...............................................................	188
4.2.2	Select database ..................................................................	189
4.2.3	Display single database .......................................................	190
4.2.4	Display databases next to one another ................................	190
4.2.5	Display databases one below the other ...............................	190
4.2.6	Closing database .................................................................	190
4.3	Manage databases ...........................................................	191
4.3.1	Manage databases .............................................................	191
4.3.2	Create new database ..........................................................	192
4.3.3	Rename database ...............................................................	192
4.3.4	Deleting database ................................................................	193
4.3.5	Database properties .............................................................	193
4.3.6	Backup database manually ..................................................	196
4.3.7	Restore database ...............................................................	197
4.4	Templates ..........................................................................	199
4.4.1	Report templates .................................................................	199
4.4.2	Templates for control chart ..................................................	234
4.4.3	Curve overlay templates .......................................................	238
4.4.4	Export templates .................................................................	244
4.5	Determination overview ..................................................	276
4.5.1	Determination overview - General ........................................	276
4.5.2	Determination overview - Functions .....................................	282
4.6	Subwindow Information ..................................................	326
4.6.1	Information - Overview .....................................................	326
4.6.2	Information - Determination ...........................................	327
4.6.3	Information - Method .....................................................	330
4.6.4	Information - Sample ...........................................................	331

tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

V

Table of contents
4.6.5	Information - Configuration .........................................	333
4.6.6	Information - Messages .....................................................	339
4.6.7	Information - Determination comment	.............................. 339
4.7	Subwindow Results ..........................................................	340
4.7.1	Results - General ..................................................................	340
4.7.2	Results - Results overview ....................................................	340
4.7.3	Results - Raw data ...............................................................	342
4.7.4	Results - Calculation # .........................................................	350
4.7.5	Results - Properties ..............................................................	352
4.8	Curves subwindow ...........................................................	353
4.8.1	Curves - General ..................................................................	353
4.8.2	Curves - Measuring point list ................................................	354
4.8.3	Curves - Monitoring report ..................................................	355
4.8.4	Properties ............................................................................	356
5 Method		370
5.1	Method - General .............................................................	370
5.1.1	Method - Definition .........................................................	370
5.1.2	Method - Desktop ............................................................	371
5.1.3	Method - Menu bar .............................................................	371
5.1.4	Method - Toolbar ................................................................	373
5.1.5	Method - Functions .............................................................	375
5.2	Method editor ...................................................................	376
5.2.1	Creating new method ..........................................................	376
5.2.2	Opening method .................................................................	376
5.2.3	Select method ...................................................................	378
5.2.4	Edit method ........................................................................	380
5.2.5	Checking method ................................................................	385
5.2.6	Saving method ....................................................................	385
5.2.7	Modification comment on method ......................................	387
5.2.8	Print method report .............................................................	388
5.2.9	Closing method ...................................................................	388
5.3	Managing methods ..........................................................	389
5.3.1	Managing methods .............................................................	389
5.3.2	Renaming method ..............................................................	391
5.3.3	Copying method ..................................................................	391
5.3.4	Moving method ..................................................................	391
5.3.5	Deleting method .................................................................	392
5.3.6	Sending method to ..............................................................	392
5.3.7	Exporting a method .............................................................	393
5.3.8	Importing method ..............................................................	393
5.3.9	Renaming imported method ................................................	393
5.3.10	Signing methods .................................................................	394
5.3.11	Showing method history ......................................................	399
5.4	Method groups .................................................................	400
5.4.1	Manage method groups ....................................................	400
5.4.2	Edit method groups .............................................................	401

VI	tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

		Table of contents
5.5	Tracks ................................................................................	402
5.5.1	Tracks - General ...................................................................	402
5.5.2	Track types ..........................................................................	403
5.5.3	Edit tracks ...........................................................................	408
5.6	Commands ........................................................................	409
5.6.1	Commands - General ...........................................................	409
5.6.2	Track commands .................................................................	413
5.6.3	Titration commands .............................................................	428
5.6.4	Measuring commands .........................................................	860
5.6.5	Calibration commands .........................................................	993
5.6.6	Dosing commands .............................................................	1035
5.6.7	Automation commands .....................................................	1088
5.6.8	Result commands ..............................................................	1111
5.6.9	Communications commands ..............................................	1127
5.6.10	Miscellaneous commands ..................................................	1148
5.6.11	ProcessLab commands .......................................................	1163
6 Configuration		1184
6.1	Configuration - General .................................................	1184
6.1.1	Configuration - Definition ..................................................	1184
6.1.2	Configuration - Desktop ....................................................	1184
6.1.3	Configuration - Menu bar ..................................................	1185
6.1.4	Configuration - Toolbar .....................................................	1187
6.1.5	Configuration - Subwindows ............................................	1187
6.1.6	Configuration - Functions ..................................................	1188
6.1.7	Views ................................................................................	1189
6.2	Administration ................................................................	1192
6.2.1	User administration ...........................................................	1192
6.2.2	Security settings ................................................................	1201
6.2.3	Program administration .....................................................	1211
6.3	Configuration data ........................................................	1215
6.3.1	Export/Import ....................................................................	1215
6.3.2	Backup/Restore ..................................................................	1220
6.3.3	Templates ..........................................................................	1223
6.3.4	Options .............................................................................	1230
6.4	Audit Trail .......................................................................	1233
6.4.1	Audit Trail - General ..........................................................	1233
6.4.2	Audit Trail table .................................................................	1237
6.5	Subwindow Devices ......................................................	1248
6.5.1	Configuration - Devices .....................................................	1248
6.5.2	Device table .......................................................................	1249
6.5.3	Device properties ..............................................................	1253
6.6	Subwindow Titrants/Solutions ......................................	1254
6.6.1	Titrants/Solutions - General ................................................	1254
6.6.2	Solution table ....................................................................	1255
6.6.3	Solution properties ............................................................	1258

tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

VII

Table of contents
6.7	Subwindow Sensors .......................................................	1277
6.7.1	Sensors - General ...............................................................	1277
6.7.2	Sensor table ......................................................................	1278
6.7.3	Sensor properties ...............................................................	1282
6.8	Common variables subwindow .....................................	1301
6.8.1	Configuration - Common variables ...................................	1301
6.8.2	Table of common variables ................................................	1301
6.8.3	Common variables properties ............................................	1304
6.9	Sample solutions (TC conductivity) subwindow ..........	1310
6.9.1	Sample solutions (TC conductivity) - General ......................	1310
6.9.2	Sample solutions (TC conductivity) table .............................	1310
6.9.3	Sample solutions (TC conductivity) properties .....................	1313
6.10	Rack data subwindow ...................................................	1317
6.10.1	Configuration - Rack data ...............................................	1317
6.10.2	Rack table .........................................................................	1317
6.10.3	Rack properties ..................................................................	1319
7 Devices		1326
7.1	Titrando ..........................................................................	1326
7.1.1	Titrando - Overview ...........................................................	1326
7.1.2	Properties - General ...........................................................	1326
7.1.3	Properties - Measuring inputs ............................................	1327
7.1.4	Properties - MSB # .............................................................	1328
7.1.5	Properties - GLP ................................................................	1330
7.1.6	Load new program version ...............................................	1331
7.2	Titrino ..............................................................................	1332
7.2.1	Titrino - Overview ..............................................................	1332
7.2.2	Properties - General ...........................................................	1333
7.2.3	Properties - Int. Dosing device D0 ......................................	1334
7.2.4	Properties - Ext. Dosing device D# ......................................	1335
7.2.5	Properties - RS-232 ............................................................	1336
7.2.6	Properties - GLP ................................................................	1337
7.3	756/831 Coulometer ......................................................	1339
7.3.1	756/831 Coulometer - Overview ........................................	1339
7.3.2	Properties - General ...........................................................	1339
7.3.3	Properties - RS-232 ............................................................	1340
7.3.4	Properties - GLP ................................................................	1341
7.4	712 Conductometer .......................................................	1343
7.4.1	712 Conductometer - Overview .........................................	1343
7.4.2	Properties - General ...........................................................	1343
7.4.3	Properties - RS-232 ............................................................	1344
7.4.4	Properties - GLP ................................................................	1345
7.5	856 Conductivity Module ..............................................	1347
7.5.1	856 Conductivity Module - Device .....................................	1347
7.5.2	Properties - General ...........................................................	1347
7.5.3	Properties - Measuring inputs ............................................	1348

VIII	tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

		Table of contents
7.5.4	Properties - MSB # .............................................................	1349
7.5.5	Properties - GLP ................................................................	1350
7.6	867 pH Module ...............................................................	1352
7.6.1	867 pH Module - Overview ................................................	1352
7.6.2	Properties - General ...........................................................	1353
7.6.3	Properties - Measuring inputs ............................................	1354
7.6.4	Properties - MSB # .............................................................	1355
7.6.5	Properties - GLP ................................................................	1356
7.7	846 Dosing Interface .....................................................	1358
7.7.1	846 Dosing Interface - Overview ........................................	1358
7.7.2	Properties - General ...........................................................	1358
7.7.3	Properties - MSB # .............................................................	1359
7.7.4	Properties - GLP ................................................................	1360
7.8	730 Sample Changer ......................................................	1362
7.8.1	730 Sample Changer - Overview ........................................	1362
7.8.2	Properties - General ...........................................................	1363
7.8.3	Properties - Tower .............................................................	1364
7.8.4	Properties - Rack ................................................................	1365
7.8.5	Properties - Dosing device ..................................................	1365
7.8.6	Properties - RS-232 ............................................................	1366
7.8.7	Properties - GLP ................................................................	1366
7.9	774 Oven Sample Processor ..........................................	1368
7.9.1	774 Oven Sample Processor - Overview .............................	1368
7.9.2	Properties - General ...........................................................	1369
7.9.3	Properties - Tower .............................................................	1370
7.9.4	Properties - Rack ................................................................	1370
7.9.5	Properties - Dosing device ..................................................	1371
7.9.6	Properties - Oven ...............................................................	1372
7.9.7	Properties - Gas .................................................................	1373
7.9.8	Properties - RS-232 ............................................................	1373
7.9.9	Properties - GLP ................................................................	1374
7.10	778/789 Sample Processor ............................................	1376
7.10.1	778/789 Sample Processor - Overview ...............................	1376
7.10.2	Properties - General ...........................................................	1376
7.10.3	Properties - Tower # ..........................................................	1377
7.10.4	Properties - Rack ................................................................	1379
7.10.5	Properties - MSB # .............................................................	1380
7.10.6	Properties - RS-232 ............................................................	1381
7.10.7	Properties - GLP ................................................................	1382
7.11 814/815 USB Sample Processor ....................................		1384
7.11.1	814/815 USB Sample Processor - Overview ........................	1384
7.11.2	Properties - General ...........................................................	1384
7.11.3	Properties - Tower # ..........................................................	1385
7.11.4	Properties - Rack ................................................................	1387
7.11.5	Properties - MSB # .............................................................	1388
7.11.6	Properties - GLP ................................................................	1389
7.11.7	Configuration Robotic arm ................................................	1391

tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

IX

Table of contents
7.11.8	External position ...............................................................	1392
7.12	855 Robotic Titrosampler ..............................................	1393
7.12.1	855 Robotic Titrosampler - Overview .................................	1393
7.12.2	Properties - General ...........................................................	1393
7.12.3	Properties - Measuring inputs ............................................	1394
7.12.4	Properties - Tower # ..........................................................	1395
7.12.5	Properties - Rack ................................................................	1397
7.12.6	Properties - MSB # .............................................................	1398
7.12.7	Properties - GLP ................................................................	1399
7.13	864 Balance Sample Processor .....................................	1401
7.13.1	864 Balance Sample Processor - Overview .........................	1401
7.13.2	Properties - General ...........................................................	1401
7.13.3	Properties - Tower # ..........................................................	1402
7.13.4	Properties - Rack ................................................................	1404
7.13.5	Properties - MSB # .............................................................	1405
7.13.6	Properties - GLP ................................................................	1406
7.14	874 Oven Sample Processor ..........................................	1408
7.14.1	874 Oven Sample Processor - Overview .............................	1408
7.14.2	Properties - General ...........................................................	1409
7.14.3	Properties - Tower .............................................................	1410
7.14.4	Properties - Rack ................................................................	1410
7.14.5	Properties - MSB # .............................................................	1411
7.14.6	Properties - Oven ...............................................................	1412
7.14.7	Properties - GLP ................................................................	1413
7.15	Avantes Spectrometer ...................................................	1415
7.15.1	Avantes Spectrometer - Overview ......................................	1415
7.15.2	Properties - General ...........................................................	1415
7.15.3	Properties - Settings ...........................................................	1416
7.15.4	Properties - Detector ..........................................................	1417
7.15.5	Properties - Calibration ......................................................	1418
7.15.6	Properties - Dark spectrum ................................................	1418
7.15.7	Properties - Reference spectrum ........................................	1419
7.15.8	Properties - GLP ................................................................	1420
7.16	RS-232 device .................................................................	1422
7.16.1	RS-232 device - Overview ..................................................	1422
7.16.2	Properties - General ...........................................................	1422
7.16.3	Properties - RS-232 ............................................................	1423
7.16.4	Properties - GLP ................................................................	1425
7.16.5	Establish a connection to the RS-232 device ......................	1427
7.17	Balances ..........................................................................	1428
7.17.1	Balance - Overview ............................................................	1428
7.17.2	Properties - General ...........................................................	1428
7.17.3	Properties - RS-232 ............................................................	1429
7.17.4	Properties - GLP ................................................................	1430
7.17.5	Establish a connection to the balance ................................	1432
7.18	Barcode reader ...............................................................	1433
7.18.1	Barcode reader - General ...................................................	1433

X	tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

			Table of contents
	7.18.2	Barcode reader - Overview .................................................	1434
	7.18.3	Properties - General ...........................................................	1434
	7.18.4	Properties - Settings ...........................................................	1435
	7.18.5	Properties - GLP ................................................................	1435
	7.18.6	Establish a connection to the barcode reader .....................	1437
	7.19	IO controller ....................................................................	1438
	7.19.1	IO controller - Overview .....................................................	1438
	7.19.2	Properties - General ...........................................................	1438
	7.19.3	Properties - Settings ...........................................................	1439
	7.19.4	Properties - Digital inputs ...................................................	1440
	7.19.5	Properties - Digital outputs ................................................	1443
	7.19.6	Properties - Analog inputs ..................................................	1446
	7.19.7	Properties - Analog outputs ...............................................	1448
	7.19.8	Properties - GLP ................................................................	1451
	7.20	Stepping motor controller .............................................	1453
	7.20.1	Stepping motor controller - Overview ................................	1453
	7.20.2	Properties - General ...........................................................	1453
	7.20.3	Properties - Settings ...........................................................	1454
	7.20.4	Properties - Digital inputs ...................................................	1455
	7.20.5	Properties - Digital outputs ................................................	1458
	7.20.6	Properties - Stepping motors .............................................	1461
	7.20.7	Properties - GLP ................................................................	1464
8	Manual Control		1466
	8.1	Manual Control - General ..............................................	1466
	8.2	Manual control - Desktop ..............................................	1466
	8.3	Manual Control - Device selection ................................	1467
	8.4	Manual Control - Functions ...........................................	1467
	8.4.1	Dosing ...............................................................................	1467
	8.4.2	Stirring ..............................................................................	1473
	8.4.3	Remote functions ..............................................................	1475
	8.4.4	Sample changer functions ..................................................	1477
	8.4.5	Measure ............................................................................	1486
	8.4.6	ProcessLab functions .........................................................	1490
	8.5	Manual Control - Graphical display ..............................	1509
9	How to proceed?		1510
	9.1	Audit Trail .......................................................................	1510
	9.1.1	Opening Audit Trail .........................................................	1510
	9.1.2	Filtering Audit Trail ...........................................................	1510
	9.1.3	Exporting Audit Trail .........................................................	1511
	9.1.4	Archiving Audit Trail .........................................................	1512
	9.1.5	Deleting Audit Trail ..........................................................	1513
	9.2	Backup ............................................................................	1514
	9.2.1	Backing up database .........................................................	1514
	9.2.2	Restoring database ............................................................	1516

tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

XI

Table of contents
9.2.3	Backing up configuration data ...........................................	1517
9.2.4	Restoring configuration data .............................................	1518
9.2.5	Backing up methods ..........................................................	1519
9.2.6	Archive Audit Trail ............................................................	1521
9.3	Determinations ...............................................................	1523
9.3.1	Starting single determination .............................................	1523
9.3.2	Starting determination series .............................................	1524
9.3.3	Searching for determinations .............................................	1526
9.3.4	Filtering determinations .....................................................	1526
9.3.5	Signing determination .......................................................	1528
9.3.6	Exporting determinations ...................................................	1530
9.3.7	Importing determinations ..................................................	1531
9.3.8	Deleting determinations ....................................................	1532
9.3.9	Making the determination version current .........................	1533
9.3.10	Reprocessing determinations ...........................................	1534
9.3.11	Printing determination report .............................................	1538
9.3.12	Printing determination overview ........................................	1539
9.4	Databases .......................................................................	1540
9.4.1	Database in general ...........................................................	1540
9.4.2	Opening database .............................................................	1541
9.4.3	Closing database ...............................................................	1541
9.4.4	Creating database .............................................................	1542
9.4.5	Backing up database .........................................................	1543
9.4.6	Restoring database ............................................................	1544
9.4.7	Deleting database ..............................................................	1545
9.5	Configuration data .........................................................	1546
9.5.1	Configuration data in general ............................................	1546
9.5.2	Exporting configuration data .............................................	1546
9.5.3	Importing configuration data .............................................	1547
9.5.4	Backing up configuration data ...........................................	1547
9.5.5	Restoring configuration data .............................................	1548
9.6	Methods ..........................................................................	1550
9.6.1	Open method ....................................................................	1550
9.6.2	Closing method ................................................................	1550
9.6.3	Create method .................................................................	1551
9.6.4	Save method .....................................................................	1551
9.6.5	Deleting method ..............................................................	1552
9.6.6	Exporting method ............................................................	1553
9.6.7	Import methods ..............................................................	1553
9.6.8	Sign methods ..................................................................	1554
9.6.9	Making previous method version current .........................	1555
9.6.10	Print method report ..........................................................	1556
9.6.11	Backup methods ...............................................................	1557
9.7	Method groups ...............................................................	1559
9.7.1	Creating method group ....................................................	1559
9.7.2	Deleting method group ....................................................	1559

XII	tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

		Table of contents
9.8	Sample tables .................................................................	1560
9.8.1	Create sample table ..........................................................	1560
9.8.2	Edit sample table ..............................................................	1561
9.8.3	Loading working sample table ..........................................	1562
9.8.4	Edit working sample table .................................................	1563
9.9	Reports ............................................................................	1564
9.9.1	Creating report template ..................................................	1564
9.9.2	Edit report template .........................................................	1565
9.9.3	Printing determination report ...........................................	1567
9.9.4	Printing determination overview ......................................	1568
Index		1570

tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

XIII

1 Introduction

1 Introduction

1.1Welcome to tiamo

Introduction

tiamo = titration and more

tiamo is a control and database software for titrators, dosing devices and sample changers and makes complete laboratory automation possible. It is for that reason that the name tiamo stands for «titration and more» - tiamo can do more than just titrate.

tiamo is the successor software to TiNet and Workcell. Metrohm thus provides a uniform software product for laboratory automation. Companies with international operations can use the same software platform at all sites around the globe for the processing of its samples and exchange data and methods without loss.

Overview of the main program features

Program interface: easy to operate and configure

Simple integration of devices and accessories

Convenient method editor

tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

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1.2 Operation

Database-based program with Client/Server functionality

A wide range of import and export functions

FDA-compatibility in acc. with 21 CFR Part 11

Comprehensive online help

Program versions

What is new in tiamo 2.1?

Overview of the most important information concerning ProcessLab under tiamo

ProcessLab instruments

–IO controller

–Stepping motor controller

ProcessLab - Commands

ProcessLab - Manual control

1.2Operation

Introduction

The modern user interface makes it simple for the user to find his/her way around tiamo. All the commands and control elements are where you would expect to find them. The bar on the left edge of the screen gives you access to the five basic elements of tiamo:

Workplace	Database	Method	Configura-	Manual
			tion

Depending on the access rights, these buttons are either visible or invisible. The menu bar is in the upper part of the screen. It is also possible for the individual commands to be masked out, depending on the access rights.

In the centre of the screen are the information windows with the settings, sample entry masks, live curves or results. This view can be set individually for each user with the aid of the new Layout Manager. This means that the users only see the buttons needed for their work. This reduces the introductory period for routine users to a minimum; incorrect operation as a result of overcrowded screens are also a thing of the past.

The method and calculation templates successfully introduced with the Titrando system are also available in tiamo. A wide range of tried and tested methods allow any user to create new methods fast and simply and to use them immediately.

2	tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

1 Introduction

1.3Connecting devices

Introduction

tiamo brings together the world of Titrino devices and the new generation of the Titrando System under the same roof. Compatibility with existing Metrohm devices is not a matter of course in the software sector. The entire product range of the Titrino family, which was already integrated in TiNet, can be used with tiamo, and this after more than 10 years on the market! In addition, sample processors which to some extent are no longer included in the sales program, are integrated in tiamo. That is how Metrohm secures your investments!

Naturally, all of the models of the new Titrando generation, as well as the new sample processors, are compatible with tiamo. Thus, for example, the advantages of USB communications, such as plug-and-play or recognition of intelligent dosing systems, can be used with tiamo to their fullest extent. Even a mixed operation made up of older RS-232-operated devices and newer ones with USB controls is possible without any problem.

With the ProcessLab version of tiamo, an IO controller integrated in the company network can also be directly controlled by tiamo.

Devices that can be used with tiamo

Titrando

808, 809, 835, 836, 841, 842, 851, 852, 855, 857, 888, 890, 901, 902, 904, 905, 906, 907

Titrino

702, 716, 718, 719, 720, 721, 736, 751, 758, 784, 785, 794, 795, 798, 799

Conductometer

712, 856

KF coulometer

756, 831

Sample changer

730, 774, 778, 789, 814, 815, 855, 864, 874

Miscellaneous

846 Dosing Interface, 867 pH module, Avantes spectrometer, balances, barcode readers, IO controllers, …

tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

3

1.4 Method editor

1.4Method editor

Introduction

The new graphic method editor gets more out of your titration system. With the aid of the numerous templates, methods can be created fast and easily. For most routine and automated tasks, there are tried and tested methods available. Just a few clicks and they are adapted and ready to use.

One new feature is that actions running parallel in terms of time can now be programmed and linked. Now a sample can be prepared with the new Titrando System and the Robotic Sample Processors while the previous one is being titrated. This saves time and increases sample throughput. The crowning feature is the simultaneous processing of several samples at once. This means that one Titrando can carry out two titrations at the same time. As a result, sample throughput is doubled!

tiamo is flexible and accommodates itself to analysis procedures, and not the other way around.

Overview of functions

Graphic method editor (see Chapter 5.6.1.2, page 410)

Method management (see Chapter 5.3.1, page 389)

Separate management of access rights for each method group (see Chapter 5.4.2.3, page 401)

Templates for method development and calculation (see Chapter 5.2.1, page 376)

Plausibility check for methods (see Chapter 5.2.5, page 385)

Comments can be added to the methods (see Chapter 5.2.4.2.9, page 384)

Parallel runs (see Chapter 5.6.10.3.1, page 1152)

Loop functions (see Chapter 5.6.10.4.1, page 1154)

1.5Database

Introduction

tiamo is based on an object-oriented database, that has proven itself in practice. In the configuration database, all program settings, user administration, methods and templates are stored and in the determination databases defined by the user, the determination data. These databases can be installed locally on the computer reserved for measurements and make up a simple measurement system. tiamo is however scalable and grows with operational requirements. As soon as data security and central data management make it necessary, tiamo is installed as a Client/Server configuration. The tiamo database is then installed on a server. All measurement and office computers work as clients. All results are stored centrally

4	tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

1 Introduction

in this network and can be accessed and processed by all Client PCs. All clients also access the same pool of methods.

The new database has all the major tools necessary for management of, searching for and grouping of results. Quick filters allow the user to search through thousands of determinations within seconds and to display the result clearly. Chart plots give a fast overview of the sequence of results based on time.

All options for reprocessing are available to the user.

Overview of functions

Object-oriented Client/Server database (see Chapter 6.2.3.1, page 1211).

Layout manager for the database view (see Chapter 3.1.7, page 87).

Quick filter (see Chapter 4.5.2.4.3, page 286).

Efficient search functions (see Chapter 4.5.2.3, page 282).

Access rights control for every database (see Chapter 4.3.5.3, page 194).

Automatic database backup (see Chapter 4.3.5.4, page 195).

Control cards (see Chapter 4.5.2.16, page 323).

Reprocess determinations (see Chapter 4.5.2.6, page 296).

1.6Communication

Introduction

The decisive factor for the acceptance of PC-controlled analysis systems is being able to integrate it easily and economically in existing laboratory information systems, central databases and long-term archiving systems.

tiamo is communicative. LIMS systems can easily import work lists into the tiamo sample table and control them remotely, without extra modules. Data generated in tiamo can be exported in XML format. Connection to LIMS systems on the market is thus not difficult. Export to log-term archiving systems such as NuGenesis SDMS or Scientific Software Cyberlab is also supported.

The Report generator provides a simple and flexible solution for creating analysis reports. The report generator allows you to freely define the report. It is therefore possible at any time to display one or more determinations in a choice of PDF layouts or as a printout.

A special feature is that tiamo messages, error messages or results from the method run can be sent to the user by E-mail.

Overview of functions

Import of sample data (see Chapter 3.3.1.6, page 99).

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5

1.7 Conformity

Various export formats , e.g. XML, CSV, SLK (see Chapter 4.4.4.2.1, page 245).

Automatic data export, e.g. to NuGenesis SDMS, Scientific Software CyberLAB, etc. (see Chapter 5.6.8.5.1, page 1126).

Report designer (see Chapter 4.4.1.4.1.1, page 202).

E-mail functions for status messages, error messages or results (see Chapter 2.6, page 81).

Importing external measured values (see Chapter 5.6.3.10.2, page 859).

1.7Conformity

Introduction

tiamo also sets new standards with respect to the fulfilling of GMP, GLP and FDA requirements. The latest quality standards and validation procedures were already being applied at the time of software development and programming. tiamo has been deliberately oriented to the fulfillment of FDA directive 21 CFR Part 11 and its customer-specific interpretations. This is evidenced by a Certificate of Conformity. A centralized user administration defines the access rights for program functions, methods and results, whereby any number of users with freely definable access profiles are possible. The system administrator can conveniently access the user administration from any tiamo client. Access to the software is passwordprotected and there is a choice of tiamo or Windows login.

The use of digital signatures makes it possible to sign methods and results. There are two signatures available with differing properties. With the first signature (Level 1, Review) the user confirms that he has programmed the method correctly or carried out the analysis correctly. With the second signature (Level 2, Release) the method or result is released and protected against further alterations. It is thus possible to mirror customized workflows in tiamo.

All data is organized according to the version and protected against unauthorized access, modification or deleting in the database. The database itself controls access to the data in network operation and provides archiving and restore functions.

The «Audit Trail» protocols all actions by the user and all major system processes.

Conformity relevant properties of tiamo

Conformity is priority in development and validation.

Centralized user administration (see Chapter 6.2.1.1, page 1192).

Detailed access rights (see Chapter 6.2.1.2.2, page 1194).

Password protection under tiamo or Windows (see Chapter 6.2.2.2, page 1202).

6	tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

1 Introduction

Digital signature on two levels (see Chapter 2.3, page 17).

One signature each for methods and results.

Documentation of all methods and changes in results (see Chapter 4.5.2.14, page 322).

Traceability thanks to detailed Audit Trail (see Chapter 6.4.1.1, page 1233).

1.8Versions

Introduction

tiamo is available in three sales versions, which differ with regard to the scope of functions. An upgrade is possible at any time.

	tiamo 2.1	tiamo 2.1	tiamo 2.1
	light	full	multi
Product	6.6056.211	6.6056.212	6.6056.213
Maximum number	2	unlimited	unlimited
of devices per PC
Compatible with		•	•
FDA 21 CFR Part 11
User administration	•	•	•
Security settings		•	•
Traceability («Audit		•	•
Trail»)
Client/Server sup-			•
port
Number of licenses	1	1	3
Additional licenses			•
as an option
XML data export to		•	•
LIMS
Parallel titrations		•	•
Upgrade possible	•	•

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1.9 Online help

1.9Online help

Introduction

Calling up the Help

tiamo has an extensive and detailed online help that can be requested in two ways:

General request With the menu item Help tiamo Help, or the symbol the online help with the topic Welcome to tiamo is opened. From there you can jump via Contents, Index, Search or personal Favorites to the desired topic.

Context-sensitive request With the function key [F1] on the keyboard you can jump directly to the topic which will show information on the active element in tiamo (dialog window, tab).

Symbols and conventions

The following symbols and styles are used in this documentation:

Device table	Link to another help topic in which information is
	shown for the marked term.
Method	Dialog text
	Designation for names of parameters, menu items,
	tabs and dialog windows in the software.
100	Designation for parameter values in input fields.
File New	Menu or menu item; Path needed to reach a certain
	point in the program.
[Continue]	Button
	Formula editor
	Formulae can be entered in fields with this symbol, and
	the formula editor opens when you click on the symbol
	(see Chapter 2.4, page 23).
	Instruction step
	Carry out these steps in the sequence shown.
	Warning
	This symbol draws attention to a possible risk of fatal
	injury or risk of injury.
	Warning
	This symbol draws attention to a possible hazard due
	to electrical current.

8	tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

1 Introduction

Warning

This symbol draws attention to a possible hazard due to heat or hot instrument parts.

Warning

This symbol draws attention to a possible biological hazard.

Caution

This symbol draws attention to a possible risk of damage to instruments or instrument parts.

Note

This symbol marks additional information and tips.

1.10What is new in tiamo 2.1?

Introduction

In this chapter the changes since tiamo 2.0 are described.

1.10.1New features

New instruments

Titrandos

–851

–852

New commands

BRC: Command for coulometric titration for determining the bromine consumption (bromine index/bromine number)

PORT: Command for changing the port position on a multi-port valve

News in the program part Method

Automatic start of the titration after adding sample for KFC

Formula editor: Function Student t

1.10.2Fixed bugs and problems

General

The E-mail template in the report is always being checked, even if it is not used.

Devices

774: The heater is not being stopped in case of a defective temperature sensor.

778, 789, 888, 890: The remote box does not work.

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9

1.10 What is new in tiamo 2.1?

Titrino: The window evaluation does not work correctly.

778, 789: Exception if the lift is to be lowered at an invalid rack position.

Sartorius balances: Transmit data only when using point as decimal separator.

Commands

DET: Difficulties to correctly transmit the max. increment to the device when changing the type of device (Titrino/Titrando) during the command.

CTRL/SCAN with devices with less than 14 output lines (Titrino, Avantes): The lines were counted from the left instead of from the right

MEAS Cond: Exception, if Reference temperature = off is being set.

MEAS Cond: Additional calculated values are not shown in the live curve window when the result unit was selected from the list.

KFT, SET, KFC: The start drift is 0.0 when the automatic conditioning is disabled.

CAL LOOP pH: Calibration using special buffer doesn’t work when using manual temperature entry different from 25°C.

Database program part

Unexpectedly steep EPs (ERC > 1000) are being lost during recalculation.

Method program part

Exception when recalculating a calculation with CV = invalid.

Configuration program part

Exception in the Audit Trail, if "date#" is being used as an entry (e.g. ID1).

10	tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

2 General program functions

2 General program functions

2.1Program parts

2.1.1Program parts

General program functions

tiamo™ has five different program parts which can be opened by clicking on the corresponding symbol in the vertical bar on the left. The symbol for the opened program part is shown in color, the symbols for the other program parts in black and white. The menus, symbol bars and content of the main window depend on the program part currently opened.

Workplace program part

Opening/closing workplaces

Starting single determinations and determination series

Sample tables

Database program part

Opening/closing databases

Managing databases

Reprocessing

Creating report templates

Method program part

Opening/closing existing methods

Creating new methods

Managing methods

Configuration program part

Configure devices, solutions, sensors, common variables and rack data

Security settings

User administration

Program administration

Audit Trail

tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

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2.1 Program parts

Manual program part

Manual control of devices

Note

Access to the individual program parts can be deactivated in the user administration. In this case, the corresponding symbols are hidden.

2.1.2Workplace - Desktop

Program part: Workplace

Workplace symbol

Clicking on the workplace symbol in the vertical bar on the left opens the program part Workplace while, at the same time, the workplace symbol is shown in color. The upper left corner of the symbol contains a black field displaying the number of workplaces currently opened (see Chapter 3.2.3.1, page 91).

Elements

The desktop of the program part Workplace comprises the following elements:

Workplace-specific menu bar.

Workplace-specific toolbar.

Main window in which up to 5 subwindows can be displayed.

2.1.3Database - Desktop

Program part: Database

Database symbol

Clicking on the database symbol in the vertical bar on the left opens the program part Database while, at the same time the database symbol is

12	tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

2 General program functions

shown in color. The upper left corner of the symbol contains a black field displaying the number of databases currently opened (see Chapter 4.2.2, page 189).

Elements

The desktop of the program part Database comprises the following elements:

Database-specific menu bar.

Database-specific toolbar.

Main window in which up to 6 subwindows can be displayed.

2.1.4Method - Desktop

Program part: Method

Method Symbol

Clicking on the method symbol in the vertical bar on the left opens the program part Method while, at the same time the method symbol is shown in color. The upper left corner of the symbol contains a black field displaying the number of methods currently opened (see Chapter 5.2.3, page 378).

Elements

The desktop of the program part Method comprises the following elements:

Method-specific menu bar.

Method-specific toolbar.

Main window, in which several methods can be opened but only two methods can be shown at the same time.

2.1.5Configuration - Desktop

Program part: Configuration

Configuration symbol

By clicking on on the configuration symbol in the vertical bar at the left-hand margin the program part Configuration is opened, at the same time the configuration symbol is shown in color.

tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)

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2.2 Login/password protection

Elements

The desktop of the program part Configuration comprises the following elements:

Configuration-specific menu bar.

Configuration specific toolbar.

Main window in which up to 6 subwindows can be displayed.

2.1.6Manual control - Desktop

Program part: Manual Control

Manual Control symbol

If you click on the Manual symbol in the vertical bar on the left margin, the program part Manual Control will be opened in its own window, while the Manual symbol will be shown in color at the same time.

Elements

The desktop of the program part Manual control comprises the following elements:

Selecting device

Functions/Parameters

Graphic function

2.2Login/password protection

2.2.1General information on Login/Password protection

Program parts: Workplace / Database / Method / Configuration

Login into tiamo

tiamo can be configured so that all users have to log in with their user name and password and this data is automatically checked. This requires a user administration to be set up and the corresponding security settings to be made. This data is saved in the configuration database. In the case of client/server systems, this is on the server and applies globally for all clients (central user administration).

FDA-conforming settings

If you are to be in conformity with FDA, the settings on the tab Login/ Password protection in the dialog window Security settings have to be activated corresponding to 21 CFR 11 with the button [Set]. The following conditions are therefore complied with:

14	tiamo 2.1 (ProcessLab)