Philosophical transactions. Series A, Mathematical, physical, and engineering sciences·2016
A new data collection system using a BBC microcomputer digitizes and stores data from chromatography instruments. This system offers interactive processing for baseline correction and peak integration, enhancing data analysis for routine users.
Area of Science:
Analytical Chemistry
Instrumentation
Computer Science
Background:
Chromatography, including gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), generates significant data.
Efficient and cost-effective data acquisition and processing are crucial for laboratory workflows.
Existing systems may lack flexibility or be prohibitively expensive for some research settings.
Purpose of the Study:
To develop a low-cost, versatile data collection and processing system for chromatographic and similar data.
To enable interactive data analysis, allowing operators to refine peak integration and baseline correction.
To create a user-friendly interface suitable for non-expert computer users.
Main Methods:
Construction of a data collection system centered around the BBC microcomputer.
Digitization and storage of data from GLC or HPLC instruments.
Development of interactive software for data processing, including peak integration and baseline adjustment.
Implementation of a multi-channel analog-to-digital converter (ADC) for simultaneous signal measurement.
Software written in machine code for data collection and BASIC for analysis routines.
Main Results:
Successful implementation of a functional data collection and processing system.
The system allows real-time observation of data during collection via a graphics screen.
Interactive processing enables operator control over baseline drifts and peak separations.
Simultaneous measurement of multiple signals is achievable using a multi-channel ADC.
The system is adaptable with options for extra memory and user-modifiable BASIC analysis routines.
Conclusions:
The developed system provides a cost-effective solution for data acquisition and analysis in chromatography.
Its interactive nature and user-friendly interface make it suitable for routine laboratory use.
The modular design allows for customization and future enhancements.
This system democratizes advanced data handling for laboratories with budget constraints.