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Configuring ACQUITY UPLC I-Class System Components

This document outlines recommended configurations for ACQUITY UltraPerformance LC® (UPLC) I-Class System components. It includes information on:

• Core system components• LC detectors used with I-Class, page 2• Mass spectrometers used with I-Class, page 2• Recommended configurations, page 3• Configuration diagrams, page 5

Core system componentsThe ACQUITY UPLC I-Class core system consists of the following components (see Figure 1):

• Binary solvent manager• Sample manager • Column heater-active (CH-A) or optional column manager-active (CM-A)• UPLC detector (TUV, PDA, ELS, FLR, SQ, or TQ)• Solvent tray

The above components assemble in a single or double stack, with the optional Common Platform Sample Organizer (CPSO) positioned to the left of the ACQUITY UPLC sample manager (Figure 1).

NOTE: Use the flex cart only with the core ACQUITY UPLC system (with or without the Common Platform Sample Organizer, or CPSO).

Figure 1 - ACQUITY UPLC I-Class System components

Booster = Spacer for SQ/TQBSM = Binary Solvent ManagerCH-A = Column Heater-ActiveCH-A Extended = CH-A Extention Arm KitCH-30A = 30cm Column Heater/Cooler

CM-A = Column Manager-ActiveCM-Left = CM-A installed as left inletCM-A Right = CM-A installed as right inletCPSO = Common Platform Sample Organizer

ELS = Evaporative Light-Scattering DetectorFLR = Fluorescence DetectorPDA = Photodiode Array DetectorSM-FL = Sample Manager Fixed Loop

SM-FTN = Sample Manager Flow-through NeedleSQ/TQ = Single Quadrupole or Tandem QuadrupoleTray = Solvent TrayTUV = Tunable Ultraviolet Detector

TUV/PDA

ELS/FLR

CM-A

BoosterMicroTee

CPSO

Core System Additional Components

SYNAPT G2

Tray

UPLC Detector

CH-A

BSM

Xevo TQ-S

XEVO TQ/TQ-S

Glossary

CH-A Extended

Mass detectorsLC detectors

CH-30A

SMFLEX CART

SQ/TQ

Multi-detector drip tray

XEVO TQD/SQD 2

© 2012 WATERS CORPORATION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

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LC detectors used with I-ClassThe term LC detector refers to the following Waters instruments:

• Tunable Ultraviolet (TUV) Detector • Photodiode Array (PDA) or PDA Extended Wavelength (eλ) Detector • Evaporative Light-Scattering (ELS) Detector• Fluorescence (FLR) Detector

You can include a single LC detector (TUV, PDA, PDAeλ, ELS, or FLR) in the core system stack or with additional UPLC detectors in a second stack of components. You can also place UPLC detectors on top of an SQD or TQD, with or without the optional booster.

NOTE: Use of the ELS and FLR detectors is less than optimal.

CAUTION: USE OF ANY STACKING CONFIGURATION OTHER THAN THE CORE SYSTEM WILL INCREASE DISPERSION.

REQUIREMENTS:

• The ELS Detector is a destructive detector and must be the last component in a flow path or detector series.

WARNING:TO AVOID EXPOSURE TO SOLVENT VAPORS, PLACE THE ELS DETECTOR IN AN APPROPRIATE POSITION TO ACCOMMODATE ITS EXHAUST REQUIREMENTS. DO NOT ALLOW DETECTOR EXHAUST TO ENTER THE LABORATORY ATMOSPHERE.

• Because the flow cell of the FLR detector is pressure-rated to a maximum of 3447 kPa (34 bar, 500 psi), the FLR Detector must be the last component in a flow path or detector series.

• The backpressure on the flow cells of the TUV and PDA detectors must not exceed 6895 kPa (69 bar, 1000 psi).

• To minimize dispersion and backpressure between instrument components, use the shortest length of tubing possible to connect detector flow cells.

Mass spectrometers used with I-ClassThe ACQUITY UPLC I-Class System can be configured with all currently supported mass spectrometry (MS) systems. This guide includes recommendations for only SQ/TQ, Xevo tandem quadrupole, and SYNAPT G2 mass spectrometers:

Table 1: Configuration recommendations

MS Model Position Stack allowances

Single Quadrupole (SQ) Detec-tor

Right of core system 2 instrumentsa on top

a. Instrument = LC detector (TUV, PDA, ELS, FLR) or column compartment (CM-A).

Tandem Quadrupole (TQ) Detector

Right of core system 2 instruments on top

Xevo TQ-S or TQ MS Right of core system 0 instruments on top

Xevo TQD or SQD 2 Left of core systemException: When sample organizer is used, right of core system

1 instrument on top

SYNAPT G2 Right of core system 0 instruments on top

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REQUIREMENTS:• The mass spectrometer is a destructive detector and must be the last component in a

flow path or detector series.• Minimize the length of tubing used to connect detector flow cells to the inlets of the SQ

and TQ detectors. The relatively high backpressure of eluent flow through long lengths of small-ID tubing can damage the flow cells.

• In the left-stack configuration, leave a minimum of 20 mm between the Xevo TQD/SQD 2 and the ACQUITY UPLC System.

Recommended configurationsThe configuration diagrams in Figures 2 through 5 show the placement Waters recommends for each component of the ACQUITY UPLC I-Class system:

• Recommended configurations for I-Class systems with single LC detector, page 5• Recommended configurations for I-Class systems with single MS detector, page 6• Recommended configurations for I-Class systems with dual LC detectors, page 7• Recommended configurations for I-Class systems with dual LC/MS detectors, page 8• Recommended configurations for I-Class systems with OA triple detector (1), page 9• Recommended configurations for I-Class systems with OA triple detector (2), page 10• Recommended configurations for I-Class systems with SYNAPT G2, page 11

On the multiple-detector configuration diagrams, the recommended post-column flow path is also shown. These systems may require a flow splitter (MicroTee), MS booster, or multi-detector drip tray. When coupling a core single-stack system with a mass spectrometer such as a SYNAPT, use a flex cart.

Additional parts neededCertain stacking configurations may require the use of additional parts that are not included with the system.

When to use a MicroTeeSplit the eluent flow using a MicroTee when:

• The system configuration includes two destructive detectors, such as the ELS, TQ detector, or SQ detector.

• The system configuration includes an FLR detector with a destructive detector.• You want to increase MS sensitivity in a system by restricting the flow rate range.

NOTE: Consult the appropriate user documentation for detector flow rate requirements.

CAUTION: USE OF THE MICROTEE REQUIRES LARGER-ID TUBING, WHICH WILL INCREASE DIS-PERSION.

Figures 3 through 5 show configurations requiring a MicroTee.

NOTE: For more information on splitting the eluent flow, see Designing a Split Flow Sys-tem with a MicroTee (PN 715001704).

When to use an MS boosterPlace an MS booster (or spacer) on top of the SQ or TQ detector when the column heater (CH-A) extension arm is positioned over the SQ/TQ. Place the UPLC detector on top of the MS booster in the specified configurations (Figures 2, 3, and 5).

NOTE: Only the SQ and TQ detectors need a booster.

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When to use a Flex CartUse a flex cart to adjust the height of the core UPLC system (with or without CPSO) when it is configured in a single stack (Figure 3). This mobile system will be easier to locate as close as possible to the inlet of a mass spectrometer such as a SYNAPT system.

When to use a multi-detector drip trayIf the system has more than one detector - for example, a UV detector on top of an ELS detector - you must install the multi-detector drip tray (205000355). (See Figures 3, 4, and 5.)

When to use a swivel drain kitUse a swivel drain kit (205000499) when placing a CM-A on top of a bench or detector.

Configuring the column compartments

CM-A as a right or left inletThe CM-A can accommodate both left and right inlet configurations in order to minimize dispersion when interfacing with MS.

• Configure the CM-A as a right inlet when the CM-A is positioned above the core stack.• Configure CM-A as left inlet when the CM-A is positioned:

- in a second stack to the right of the core stack, or - above the core stack in configurations that use an MS and sample organizer

NOTE: When configuring the CM-A as a left inlet in the core stack, use a 22.5” tube (700005480) between the injection valve and left switching valve. Replace the low pressure fittings with high pressure gold compression screws and two-piece fer-rules.

CH-A ExtendedThe CH-A in the extended position brings the column outlet closer to the inlet of the source probe, thus reducing dispersion. The vertical shift adapter is primarily used in third-party MS to raise or lower the arm (Figure 2). When configuring with a CH-A vertical shift adapter, use the 18.5” APH (205000774) to ensure proper routing to the injection valve.

Figure 2 - CH-A in extended position

Configuring with a CPSOYou can use a CPSO anytime there is nothing to the left of the core system. Always position it to the left of the sample manager.

Verticalshiftadapter

Arm

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CQ

UITY U

PLC I-C

LASS S

YSTEM

CO

MPO

NEN

TS

LC detector

Double stack

Tray

BSM

TUV/PDA*ELS/FLR

SM CM-ALeft

Configuration diagrams

Figure 3 - Recommended configurations for I-Class systems with single

Single LC DetectorSingle stack

NOTES: - Arrows indicate the general flow path through the ACQUITY UPLC I-Class System after the sample manager. - Use the Flex Cart only with the core I-Class system in a single stack.- Use of the ELS or FLR detector is less than optimal.- If using a CPSO, place it to the left of the sample manager.- If placing a CM-A on top of a detector, use a swivel drain kit.

Tray

TUV/PDA*ELS/FLR

CH-A

BSM

CPSO

SM

FLEX CART

CPSOTray

CM-ARight

BSM

TUV/PDA*ELS/FLR

SM

FLEX CART

CPSO

Tray

BSM

CM-ARight

TUV/PDA/FLR/ELS*

SM

Tray

BSM

TUV/PDAFLR/ELS*

SM

CH-A

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S detector

k Configuration (no CPSO)

Tray

CM-ARight

BSM

SMXEVO TQD/SQD 2

20+ mm

Tray

CM-ARight

BSM

SMSQ/TQ

Figure 4 - Recommended configurations for I-Class systems with single M

Single MS Detector

Right-stack Configuration Left-stac

With Xevo

With SQ/TQ

Tray

BSM

CH-A Extended

CPSO

Tray

BSM

CPSO

CM-ALeft

SM

SM

NOTES: - Arrows indicate the general flow path through the ACQUITY UPLC I-Class System after the sample manager. - Use the Flex Cart only with the core I-Class system in a single stack.- Use of the ELS or FLR detector is less than optimal.- If using a CPSO, place it to the left of the sample manager.- If placing a CM-A on a detector, use a swivel drain kit.- In the left stack configuration, leave a minimum of 20 mm between the XEVO TQD/SQD 2 and an ACQUITY UPLC system.

Tray

CH-A

BSM

SM

XEVO TQD/SQD 2

20+ mm

Tray

BSM

CPSO

CM-ALeft

SMSQ/TQ

Tray

CH-A

BSM

SM

SQ/TQSQ/TQ

Xevo TQ-S

XEVO TQ-S/TQ MS

Tray

BSM

CH-A Extended

CPSOSM

Xevo TQ-S

XEVO TQ-S/TQ MS

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LC detectors

n)

A

R*

Multi-detectordrip tray

Figure 5 - Recommended configurations for I-Class systems with dual

Dual LC Detector (Right-Stack Configuratio

NOTES: - Arrows indicate the general flow path through the ACQUITY UPLC I-Class System after the sample manager. - Do not use the flex cart with these configurations.- *Use of the FLR detector is less than optimal.- If using a CPSO, place it to the left of the sample manager.- If placing a CM-A on a detector, use a swivel drain kit.

BSM

CH-AExtended

TUV/PDA

ELS/FLR*

Multi-detectordrip tray

SM

BSM

TUV/PD

ELS/FL

CM-ALeft

SM

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/MS detectors

guration)

ath (Requires MicroTee)

Booster (withSQ/TQ only) BSM

Tray

TUV/PDAELS/FLR*

CM-ALeft

lti-detector tray

SM

BSM

Tray

TUV/PDAELS/FLR*

SM

SQ/TQ

XEVO TQD/SQD 2

CM-ALeftQD 2

Figure 6 - Recommended configurations for I-Class systems with dual LC

Dual LC/MS Detector (Right-Stack Confi

With SQ/TQ

Series Flow Path Parallel Flow P

TUV/PDAFLR*

BSM

Booster (withSQ/TQ only)

Tray

BSM

Tray

SQ/TQ

Tray

BSM

CM-ALeft

NOTES: - Arrows indicate the general flow path through the ACQUITY UPLC I-Class System after the sample manager. - Do not use the flex cart with these configurations.- *Use of the FLR detector is less than optimal.- If using a CPSO, place it to the left of the sample manager.- If placing a CM-A on a detector, use a swivel drain kit.- Use of a MicroTee accurately splits flow while minimizing dispersion as far as possible.

SQ/TQ SQ/TQ

TUV/PDA/FLR*

TUV/PDAELS/FLR*

CH-AExtended

CH-AExtended

Multi-detectordrip tray Multi-detector

drip tray

Mudrip

SM SM SM

TUV/PDAFLR*

BSM

Tray

Tray

BSM

CM-ARight

TUV/PDAFLR*

SM SM

BSM

Tray

TUV/PDAELS/FLR*

CH-AExtended

SM

CH-A

XEVO TQD/S

WithXevo TQ-SXevo TQ MS

Xevo TQ-S

XEVO TQ-S/TQ MS

Xevo TQ-S

XEVO TQ-S/TQ MS

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le detector (1)

D/SQD2

CM-ARight

ELS/FLR*

TUV/PDA

Multi-detectordrip tray

SM

Tray

BSM

XEVO TQD/SQD 2

20+ mm

icroTee; do not use SO)

Figure 7 - Recommended configurations for I-Class systems with OA trip

Open Access Triple Detector with SQ/TQ or Xevo TQRight-hand configuration (requires MicroTee; can use SO)

Tray

BSM

CM-ALeft

Tray

CH-A

CH-A Extended

Tray

BSM

TUV/PDA

ELS/FLR*

Booster(withSQ/TQonly)

SQ/TQ SQ/TQ

TUV/PDA

Multi-detectordrip tray

Multi-detectordrip tray

ELS/FLR*

ELS/FLR*

Multi-detectordrip tray

TUV/PDA

SM SM

SM

NOTES: - Arrows indicate the general flow path through the ACQUITY UPLC I-Class System after the sample manager. - Do not use the flex cart with these configurations.- *Use of the ELS or FLR detector is less than optimal.- If using a CPSO, place it to the left of the sample manager.- Use of a MicroTee accurately splits flow while minimizing dispersion as far as possible.- In the left stack configuration, leave a minimum of 20 mm between the XEVO TQD/SQD 2 and an ACQUITY UPLC system.- MassLynx support only.

Tray

CM-ALeft

ELS/FLR*

SM

BSMBSM

XEVO TQD/SQD 2

20+ mm

TUV/PDAELS/FLR*

XEVO TQD/SQD 2

BSM

Tray

TUV/PDA

SM

XEVO TQD/SQD 2

ELS/FLR*

CH-A Extended

Left-hand configuration (requires M

SQ/TQ

XEVOTQDSQD2

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le detector (2)

S

Xevo TQ-S/TQ MS

ctor

Figure 8 - Recommended configurations for I-Class systems with OA trip

Open Access Triple Detector with Xevo TQ-S/TQ M

Right-hand configuration (requires MicroTee; can use SO)

NOTES: - Arrows indicate the general flow path through the ACQUITY UPLC I-Class System after the sample manager. - Do not use the flex cart with these configurations.- *Use of the ELS or FLR detector is less than optimal.- If using a CPSO, place it to the left of the sample manager.- If placing a CM-A on a detector, use a swivel drain kit.- Use of a MicroTee accurately splits flow while minimizing dispersion as far as possible.- MassLynx support only.

BSM

TUV/PDA

ELS/FLR*

CM-ALeft

SM

BSM

CH-AExtended

TUV/PDA

ELS/FLR*

SM

Xevo TQ-S/TQ MS

Multi-detectordrip trays

Multi-detedrip trays

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NAPT G2

PT G2

PT G2

Figure 9 - Recommended configurations for I-Class systems with SY

SYNAPT G2

NOTES:- Use the Flex Cart only with the core I-Class system in a single stack.- *Use of the ELS or FLR detector is less than optimal.- If using a CPSO, place it to the left of the sample manager.

Singledetector

Dual detector

Tray

TUV/PDA*ELS/FLR

CH-A

BSM

CPSO

SM

SYNAPT G2

FLEX CART

BSM

CPSO

Tray

CM-ARight

TUV/PDA*ELS/FLR

SM

SYNA

FLEX CART

Tray

BSM

CPSOSM

CM-ALeft

SYNA

FLEX CART

Tray

BSM

CPSOSM

SYNAPT G2

FLEX CART

CH-A