OPERATOR’S MANUAL

FOR

Varian 356-LC
Control Software

Version 1.0 November 2007

NOTICE: This document contains references to Varian.

Please note that Varian, Inc. is now part of Agilent
Technologies. For more information, go to
[Link]/chem.

Polymer Laboratories Ltd, Now a part of Varian, Inc., Essex Road, Church Stretton,
Shropshire SY6 6AX, UK
Tel +44 (0)1694 723581, Fax +44 (0)1694 722171, Service Tel +44 (0)1694 724333

Polymer Laboratories, Varian, Inc., Amherst Fields Research Park, 160 Old Farm
Road,
Amherst, MA 01002, USA Tel +1 413 253 9554, Fax +1 413 253 2476

Polymer Laboratories, Varian B.V., Herculesweg 8, 4339 PL Middelburg,

The Netherlands Tel +31 (0) 118 671500, Fax +31 (0)118 671502

Polymer Laboratories, Varian Belgium NV SA, Mechelsesteenweg 362,

2860 St.-Katelijne-Waver, Belgium Tel +32 (0) 15 556460, Fax +32 (0) 15 556186

Polymer Laboratories, Varian Deutschland GmbH, Alsfelder Stra€e 6,

D-64289 Darmstadt, Germany Tel: +49 (0) 6151 7030 Fax: +49 (0)6151 703237

Varian S.A.,7 Avenue des Tropiques, Z.A. Courtaboeuf, B.P. 12

F-91941 Les Ulis Cedex, France Tel +33 1.6986.3838 Fax: +33 1.6928.2308
 CONTENTS
1 GENERAL INFORMATION 3
1.1 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................... 3
1.2 SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................................. 4
1.3 CONNECTING THE VARIAN 356-LC TO A PC...................................................... 5
1.3.1 Use a Universal Serial Bus Interface (USB) 5
1.3.2 Adding an Extra Serial Card to your PC - Using Multiple Serial Ports 5
1.4 USING STAR W ORKSTATION WITH INSTRUMENT CONTROL SOFTWARE. ............... 5
1.5 INSTALLATION PROCEDURES- SOFTWARE ......................................................... 7
1.5.1 Installation of the PL Instrument Control Software from CD 7
1.5.2 Installation of the PL Instrument Control On-line Help from CD 7
1.5.3 Configuring the PL Instrument Control Software 8
2 THE GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE 10
2.1 OVERVIEW ................................................................................................... 10
2.2 SUMMARY VIEW............................................................................................ 11
2.3 COMPONENT VIEW........................................................................................ 11
2.4 AUTOMATING THE VARIAN 356-LC ................................................................. 12
3 TROUBLESHOOTING 14
3.1 ERRORS....................................................................................................... 14
3.2 VARIAN 356-LC ERRORS .............................................................................. 15
 Chapter 1 –General Information

1 General Information

1.1 Introduction

The Varian 356-LC differential refractometer is a universal detector designed for

high-performance analyses where the refractive index of a flowing liquid with respect
to a reference is required. Its small cell volume, high sensitivity, and accurate
temperature control make it well-suited for use as a detector in automated and
manual high performance liquid chromatography.

The Varian 356-LC RI detector can be operated as an integrated module within a

Liquid Chromatography System using Galaxie™ Chromatography software.
Alternatively, the detector can be used as a stand-alone HPLC detector through
serial communications.

This manual instructs the user how to install the PL Instrument Control software for
operation of the Varian 356-LC RI as a stand-alone detector. For information on
operating the detector please refer to the Operation manual.

Document # 6/27416 3
Varian 356-LC Software Control Manual
 Chapter 1 –General Information

1.2 Specifications

RI range 1.0~1.75 RIU

Range 150-600x10-6 /FS RIU
Linearity 600 ‚RIU
Sensitivity LOW (2), MED (4), HIGH (8) mV/‚RIU
Short-term noise 1 <5.0x10-9RIU
Drift <2.5x10-7 RIU/hour
Response time 0.1-5.0 sec
Temperature control OFF, 30-50 ƒC (1 ƒC increments)
Cell volume 6 ‚L
Light source LED 880 nm
Analogue output 1 V FSD
Digital output 24 bit (10 Hz) via serial port
Polarity Positive/Negative
External communication RS232
Autozero YES
Purge YES
Flow rate range 0.1-10 mL/min
Pressure rating 100 kPa (15 psi)
Internal volume- inlet 15 ‚L
Internal volume- outlet 459 ‚L
Total internal volume Normal operation 474 ‚L
Purge mode 491 ‚L
316 SST, Quartz Glass, PTFE,
Wetted material Perfluoroelastomer
Power requirements AC 100~240 V 50/60 Hz
Power consumption 150 W (max)
Dimensions (wxdxh)
(unpacked) 296 x 475 x 212 mm
Dimensions (packed) 460 x 775 x 385 mm
Weight (unpacked) 11 kg
Weight (packed) 13.5 kg
PC Requirements Windows„ 2000 & XPpro
Remote operation Remote purge & autozero
Safety features Error and leak detection
Table 1. Performance Specification of the Varian 356-LC RI Detector

1
According to ASTM method E-1303-95 “Practice for Refractive Index Detectors used in Liquid Chromatography”.
Detector conditions; temperature 35 ƒ C, response time 4 sec.

Document # 6/27416 4
Varian 356-LC Software Control Manual
 Chapter 1 –General Information

1.3 Connecting the Varian 356-LC to a PC

1.3.1 PC Requirements
To operate the Varian 356-LC detector using the Instrument Control Software, a free
Serial (RS-232) communications port (1 to 255) is required on your PC. Most
computers are supplied with at least one serial port as standard, but if your PC does
not provide a serial port, please see section [Link] & [Link]

The Varian 356-LC Instrument Control Software is only compatible with Windows„
2000 & XP Pro.

[Link] Use a Universal Serial Bus (USB) to Serial Interface

If your PC has one or more Universal Serial Bus (USB) connectors then you can use
a “USB – Serial Port Adaptor” (part # 0860-0620), which provides a Serial Port
connection to your PC. The Universal Serial Bus interface is supported on:

Windows 98
Windows ME
Windows 2000
Windows XP

USB is NOT Supported on NT 4.0. You may require

! extra software to use USB on Windows
NOTE

[Link] Adding an Extra Serial Card to your PC - Using Multiple Serial Ports
Multiple Port Serial cards are available, which allow 4, 8 and 16 extra serial ports to
be added to your PC using a single PCI card.

1.3.2 Serial Connection

Ensure that the Varian 356-LC detector is switched on and operating normally. Make
sure you have one free and valid RS-232 communications port (1 to 255).
Connect the serial port on your PC to the port labelled "RS232" on the rear of the
detector, using the serial cable provided. Ensure that the flash upgrade switch, (see
figure 1) is located in the RUN position (i.e. downwards).

1.4 Instrument Control for non-Galaxie Users

The Varian 356-LC was designed to integrate fully into Galaxie Chromatography
software, allowing the user to control the instrument, remotely for unattended
operation. However, for non-Galaxie users (e.g. Star or MS workstation) the Varian
356-LC Control software (v2.2), provides a standalone control of the Varian 356-LC

Document # 6/27416 5
Varian 356-LC Software Control Manual
 Chapter 1 –General Information

The 356-LC Instrument Control software provides direct control of the Varian 356-LC,
via the RS232 port, in much the same way as front panel control. It does not provide
data acquisition.

For data acquisition and control, the Control software must be used in conjunction
with a chromatographic data acquisition package, such as Star or MS Workstation.
The Varian 356-LC’s analogue data can be collected by connecting the supplied
analogue output cable (Part No. PL0880-0310) from the rear of the detector (see
figure 1) to an A/D interface (e.g. Star MIB 800 module). Please refer to the Star or
MS workstation user manual for more information on how to configure the Star 800
modules.

2 5

3
6

Figure 1. Rear view of the Varian 356-LC RI Detector

1. Serial RS232 connector – 24 bit digital output
2. Control firmware flash upgrade switch
3. Connector control I/O –15 pin D type female
4. Analogue output - ‰1 V
5. Mains switch
6. Mains input

Document # 6/27416 6
Varian 356-LC Software Control Manual
 Chapter 1 –General Information

1.5 Installation Procedures- Software

1.5.1 Installation of the PL Instrument Control Software from CD
Place the CD-ROM containing the Varian 356-LC Control software into the CD drive.
In most cases the CD browser window will automatically open. However if the
window does not appear then select the Run option in the Start menu, and type in
D:\[Link] (where D: denotes the CD drive).

From the CD browser window select the Install the Software option and follow the on-
screen instructions, it is recommended that the default settings are selected.

Ensure that when you log on to the PC

you have full administration rights.

You may need to restart your computer at the end of installation; if this is required
you will be prompted to do so.

After successful installation of the Control software, the program is simply run by
clicking on the application named PL Instrument Control ([Link]) installed
in the PL Instrument Control group of the Programs option in the Start menu.

The default location for the program files will be C:\Program Files\Polymer
Laboratories\PL Instrument Control, which contains the following files:-

Before running the program the

software must be first configured,
see section 1.5.3.

1.5.2 Installation of the Instrument Control On-line Help from CD

From the CD browser window select the Install Online Help option and follow the on-
screen instructions, it is recommended that the default settings are selected. The
two help files (one for the PL Instrument Control software and the other for the PL
Instrument Configuration Editor program) will be installed and the default location will
be C:\Program Files\Polymer Laboratories\PL Instrument Control\Docs.

Document # 6/27416 7
Varian 356-LC Software Control Manual
 Chapter 1 –General Information

1.5.3 Configuring the Instrument Control Software

The Control Software needs to be closed down before starting

this program.
The configuration of the Varian 356-LC should normally be done
by a qualified Varian representative.

To configure the Control software for the Varian 356-LC, you need to run the PL
Instrument Configuration Editor to define the components that make up the
instrument. The PL Instrument Configuration Editor is simply run by clicking on the
application named PL Instrument Configuration Editor ([Link]) installed
in the Service group of the PL Instrument Control group of the Programs option in the
Start menu.

The first time the PL Configuration Editor program is run, the

program displays all the components that are available for
control.

For the initial configuration of the system select the Varian 356-LC from the list by left
clicking on the name of the component so that the configuration matches the
instrument.

Once the Varian 356-LC configuration has been completed the correct Com port
needs to be assigned. To set the Com port, double click on the component name.
The Configure Component dialog will open, where the correct Com port can be
entered.

Document # 6/27416 8
Varian 356-LC Software Control Manual
 Chapter 1 –General Information

Once the Com ports is set correctly, close the configuration editor and wait while the
new configuration is saved. While the new configuration is being saved the following
message will be displayed: -

Updating the instrument configuration can

take up to a minute so please be
patience.

For further information on configuring a system then please see the on-line help
within the PL Configuration Editor program.

Document # 6/27416 9
Varian 356-LC Software Control Manual
 Chapter 2-The Graphical User Interface

2 The Graphical User Interface

Total instrument control of the Varian 356-LC is provided by a Windows-based
Graphical User Interface (GUI). This intuitive interface provides simplistic control as
well as a comprehensive monitoring system.
For further information on the PL Instrument Control
software please see the on-line help within the
program.

To start the 356-LC Control software, select the PL Instrument Control item in
the PL Instrument Control program group of the Programs option in the Start menu.

2.1 Overview

The Control screen is effectively divided into two main Views, these are:

1. The Summary View

2. The Component View

Document # 6/27416 10
Varian 356-LC Software Control Manual
 Chapter 2-The Graphical User Interface

2.2 Summary View

The summary view displays the status of the Varian 356-LC and a quick way of
accessing the various parameters and options available within the PL Instrument
Control software.

A green LED next to the Varian 356-LC name indicates the module is being
controlled and running whereas a red LED would indicate the module is either not
running or not controlled.

For further information on the Summary View please see the on-line help within the
PL Instrument Control software.

2.3 Component View

The component view provides direct access to the Varian 356-LC control
parameters. In general each component view contains a number of common items
and options. The actual items available in a view are dependent on the component
selected.

The general component view for all components except for autosamplers/carousels
is shown below.

Status Bar – This displays Varian 356-LC description and current status.

On-line Help Button – This is a direct link to the on-line help for that component view.

Parameter Grid – This displays the current set parameter(s) for the 356-LC. To set
and update the parameter(s) enter the required value(s) in the Set Value column and
press the UPDATE button.

Document # 6/27416 11
Varian 356-LC Software Control Manual
 Chapter 2-The Graphical User Interface

To undo any parameter(s) prior to pressing the Update button press the Undo button,

.
To reset the parameter(s) back to the default value(s) press the Factory Reset
button, .

Help Output Window – This displays a simple summary help for each parameter and
action. To view this information, select the parameter or action. The information
displayed in the Help Window will be a short description about the action or
parameter, the Factory Default Value and the Minimum and Maximum Values for the
parameter.

Action Button(s) – The Varian 356-LC can be Purged or Autozeroed using the Action
Buttons, as well as from the Action List. To run an action, press the required Action
button.

Press the STOP button, to stop all the procedures currently running on the selected
component.

For information on the Toolbar menus please see the on-line help within the PL
Instrument Control software.

2.4 Automating the Varian 356-LC

The Instrument Control software provides the ability to automate the control of the
Varian 356-LC using the Events Schedule Editor. To open the Events Schedule
Editor and create a schedule, select the Edit Schedule option from the Automation
menu on the toolbar. The editor will initially display a default Events Schedule
consisting of a single Process and Sequence entry. This ensures you only have to
add a Procedure entry for the schedule to be valid.

Document # 6/27416 12
Varian 356-LC Software Control Manual
 Chapter 2-The Graphical User Interface

To add a Procedure right click on the Sequence entry in the schedule, the Procedure
Details window will open where the required action can be selected.

Once the Events Schedule is completed press the Start button, to start the
schedule.

The schedule can be used to equilibrate the detector by automatically purging a

autozeroing the detector.

Message boxes can be displayed at key stages during an Event Schedule. These
message boxes require user input before the rest of the schedule can be run. The
text displayed in the message box is customisable allowing simple status information
or more detailed instructions to be displayed to the operator. Two examples of this
are: -
 Providing a simple guide path to an operator for the manual operation of the
system.
 Providing feedback / key information to an operator at key stages of a more
automated system.

For further information on the Event Schedule Editor please see the on-line help
within the Instrument Control software.

Document # 6/27416 13
Varian 356-LC Software Control Manual
 Chapter 3 - Troubleshooting

3 Troubleshooting

3.1 Errors
Any error(s) that occur with communications or operations (running component
actions, updating parameters etc.) with the instrument, the Diagnostic Output
Window will automatically open with the error(s) displayed in the Component Error
Status Tab of the Diagnostic Output Window as shown below. Each error is uniquely
identified with a number that can be referenced back to the control code.

Figure 2. Diagnostic Output Window

Note: The information displayed in last two Tabs is primarily for service diagnostics
and the Window does not need to be open for normal operation of the instrument.

If an error is displayed it needs to be cleared in order for the diagnostic window to be

closed, allowing access back to the PL Instrument Control software. To clear an
error press the Select button to highlight the row and press the Clear button. Multiple
errors can be selected at a time. Once all errors have been cleared the diagnostic
window can be closed.

Clearing an error will stop all procedures that are running and attempting to
communicate with the component. To re-establish communications with the
component either select the Reconnect option from the Instrument menu or return to
the component view and resend the parameters or repeat the required action.

The errors that can be displayed from the software are listed on the following pages.

Document # 6/27416 14
Varian 356-LC Software Control Manual
 Chapter 3 - Troubleshooting

3.2 Varian 356-LC Errors

General System Errors

Error Cause(s) Action
Incorrect Com port
Ensure the correct Com port has been
Could not assigned to the
assigned within the PL Instrument
initialise component, the PL-GPC
Configuration Editor program. Ensure
specified 50 Plus is not powered
the PL-GPC 50 Plus is powered on and
comms port on or the USB cable is
the USB cable is connected.
not connected.
Ensure the correct Com port has been
Incorrect Com port assigned within the PL Instrument
assigned to the Configuration Editor program. Ensure
No response
component or the PL-GPC 50 Plus and/or component
received from
communications lost with is powered on. If assigned Com port is
the device
the component, e.g. correct and the system is powered on
power failure. then contact Polymer Laboratories or
your local agent.
Turn the PL-GPC 50 Plus off and then
on again (ensure the control software
Unrecognised
has been closed before turning the
response from
instrument off). If this error persists
the device
then contact Polymer Laboratories or
your local agent.
Ensure the correct component has
The device Incorrect component
been assigned to the correct Com port
rejected the assigned to the Com
within the PL Instrument Configuration
last command port.
Editor program.
Reinitialise the component from the PL
Instrument Control software and ensure
the initialisation is completed
successfully. Otherwise turn the PL-
The device GPC 50 Plus off and then on again
The component failed to
returned an (ensure the control software has been
complete an action.
error closed before turning the instrument
off). If unsuccessful and no obvious
cause for the error then contact
Polymer Laboratories or your local
agent.

Document # 6/27416 15
Varian 356-LC Software Control Manual
 Chapter 3 - Troubleshooting

Instrument Errors
Error Cause(s) Action
01 Fan stopped/failed Fault with the circuitry/wires/fan. Call
your Varian customer support
representative if this happens regularly.
02 Upper leak detector Liquid sensor needs replacing. Call
thermistor failure. your Varian customer support
representative.
03 Lower leak detector Liquid sensor needs replacing. Call
thermistor failure. your Varian customer support
representative.
04 Internal vapour sensor Vapour sensor needs replacing. Call
failure. your Varian customer support
representative.
05 External vapour sensor Vapour sensor needs replacing. Call
failure. your Varian customer support
representative.
06 Liquid leak sensor has Liquid in the base of the unit - Stop
detected liquid in drip pump and investigate.
tray.
07 High concentration of Ensure sufficient ventilation around the
vapour detected outside module.
of unit. Check for a solvent leak.
08 Heated block thermistor Call your Varian customer support
below minimum representative.
threshold.
09 Heated block thermistor Call your Varian customer support
above maximum representative.
threshold.
0A Light source error Replace the light source assembly. Call
your Varian customer support
representative.
Auto-Zero (01) Autozero timeout Re-autozero the detector.

Document # 6/27416 16
Varian 356-LC Software Control Manual