Data handling devices

Modem HPLC is adequately provided with complete data handling devices. Thousands of samples routinely analysed in Quality Assurance Laboratories in Pharmaceutical Industries/Bulk Drug Industries etc. are duly processed and the data stored in the computerised data-handling devices. Each stored data may be retrieved from the memory of the computerised device with the flick of a finger, as and when needed, in the form of print-out. 

A typical HPLC system consists of several modules a pump injector, a detector, and a data-handling device (Figure 1). The simplest... 

It has already been mentioned that it is not yet clear whether the complicated data handling devices necessary for these methods can be justified. Nevertheless, interesting possibilities have already been demonstrated, e.g. "deconvolution"... 

An operation or series of operations that contributes to the validation of screening results. Such operations include validation of liquid handling devices and plate readers, experiment controls, such as determination of the Z factor and use of assay controls, and postexperiment controls, such as data analysis validation and database administration. Results of a screen are validated only after a set of quality controls have been performed. 

In general, gas chromatography will undoubtedly continue to be the method of choice for characterization of light hydrocarbon materials. New and improved detection devices and techniques, such as chemiluminescence, atomic emission, and mass spectroscopy, will enhance selectivity, detection limits, and analytical productivity. Laboratory automation through autosampling, computer control, and data handling will provide improved precision and productivity, as well as simplified method operation. 

With commercially available automatic sampling devices, large numbers of samples can be routinely analyzed by LC without operator intervention. Such equipment is popular for the analysis of routine samples (e.g., quality control of drugs), particularly when coupled with automatic data-handling systems. Automatic injectors are indispensable in unattended searching (e.g., overnight) for chromatographic parameters such as solvent selectivity, flow rate, and temperature optimization. 

The development of biosensors is expected to benefit monitoring therapeutic drug levels, office testing, and implantable devices because of the advantages of cost-saving automation and improved data handling... 

Mass spectrometry has become more useful In the support of electronic development and manufacturing processes. Fourier transform mass spectrometry, the latest advance in this analytical method, Is another step forward in versatility, sensitivity and reproducibility in analytical characterization, qualification and quantification of raw materials and contaminants as used in electronic devices. A review will be provided of basic instrument hardware and interfacing, significant operating parameters and limitations, and special inlet systems. Emphasis will be placed on material evaluation, process control and failure analysis. Data handling will be reviewed using appropriate examples encountered in material and failure analysis. 

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