Dionex Chromeleon User Manual

The Dionex Chromeleon is a comprehensive chromatography data system (CDS) software platform for instrument control, data acquisition, processing, and reporting. It supports various chromatography techniques including HPLC, UHPLC, GC, and IC systems with advanced data management, compliance features, and multi-vendor instrument control capabilities. Below are key sections for installation, features, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Chromeleon Server, Client software, Instrument control modules, Data processing engine, Report designer, Audit trail, and Security features.

System Requirements

Minimum system requirements for optimal performance.

1. Operating System: Windows 10/11 (64-bit) or Windows Server 2019/2022
2. Processor: Intel Core i5 or equivalent, 2.0 GHz or higher
3. Memory: 8 GB RAM minimum (16 GB recommended)
4. Storage: 500 GB free disk space for installation and data
5. Display: 1920x1080 resolution minimum
6. Network: Gigabit Ethernet for server-client communication

WARNING! Ensure all system requirements are met before installation to avoid performance issues.

Installation & Setup

Complete installation and initial configuration steps.

1. Run installer: Launch Chromeleon setup executable with administrator privileges.
2. Select components: Choose server, client, or both installation types.
3. Database configuration: Set up SQL Server database connection.
4. Instrument detection: Auto-detect connected chromatography instruments.
5. User configuration: Create administrator and user accounts.
6. License activation: Enter license key and activate software.

CAUTION! Close all other applications during installation. Backup existing data before proceeding.

Specifications

• Software Version: Chromeleon 7.3
• Supported Instruments: HPLC, UHPLC, GC, IC systems
• Data Formats: CDS, CDF, mzML, RAW
• Compliance: 21 CFR Part 11, GMP/GLP ready
• Database: Microsoft SQL Server
• Security: User roles, electronic signatures, audit trail
• Reporting: Custom templates, PDF/Excel export
• Multi-language: English, German, French, Japanese, Chinese
• System Architecture: Client-server or standalone

Interface Overview

Main interface components: Control Panel, Sequence Table, Data Browser, and Report Viewer.

Control Panel: Instrument status, method control, real-time monitoring. Sequence Table: Sample list, injection parameters, method assignments. Data Browser: Raw data visualization, peak integration, calibration curves. Report Viewer: Generated reports, custom layouts, data export.

Navigation: Use main menu for access to all modules. Quick access toolbar for common functions. Status bar displays current system state and connection status.

Method Development

Create and optimize chromatography methods using visual editor.

1. Open Method Editor: Select New Method from File menu.
2. Define instrument parameters: Flow rate, gradient, temperature, detection wavelength.
3. Set acquisition parameters: Run time, data rate, channel configuration.
4. Configure processing method: Integration events, peak detection, calibration.
5. Save method: Store in database with version control.
6. Validate method: System suitability testing and performance verification.

Tip: Use method templates for common applications to save development time.

Data Acquisition

Configure and execute sample sequences for data collection.

1. Create sequence: Define sample list with injection order and method assignments.
2. Set sequence parameters: Injection volume, vial position, data file naming.
3. Start acquisition: Monitor real-time data and system status.
4. Review data: Check chromatograms and system pressure during run.
5. Pause/resume: Control acquisition as needed for system maintenance.
6. Complete sequence: Automatic data processing and report generation.

WARNING! Verify instrument readiness before starting sequence. Monitor system pressure limits.

Data Processing & Reporting

Automated and manual data processing with customizable reporting.

1. Open data file: Select raw data from Data Browser.
2. Apply processing method: Automatic peak integration and identification.
3. Manual integration: Adjust peak baselines and integration parameters.
4. Calibration: Create and apply calibration curves for quantification.
5. Generate report: Use predefined or custom report templates.
6. Export data: Save reports in PDF, Excel, or other formats.

Note: All processing steps are logged in audit trail for compliance.

System Maintenance

Regular maintenance procedures for optimal performance.

Database maintenance: Regular backups, index optimization, storage management. Software updates: Apply patches and version updates. Instrument calibration: Periodic performance verification. User management: Review and update user accounts and permissions.

CAUTION! Perform maintenance during scheduled downtime. Backup all data before updates.

Regulatory Compliance

21 CFR Part 11 compliance features: Electronic signatures, audit trail, user access control, data integrity. GMP/GLP support: Method validation, system qualification, change control. Data security: Encryption, access logging, backup and recovery procedures.

Troubleshooting

Support: Contact Thermo Fisher Scientific Technical Support at 1-800-532-4752 or visit www.thermofisher.com/chromeleon