How to set up a Scouting Scheme

Introduction

When you prepare your method you can define a number of variables in the method for Scouting. The definition of how the series of method runs will be performed is called a Scouting Scheme.

When to use Scouting

You can use Scouting for example:

  • to screen for the best column,

  • to find the optimal pH,

  • to test column capacity (sample volume),

  • to find the optimal flow rate for binding and elution,

  • to optimize gradient length and slope.

Before you start

Scouting Schemes are defined in the Run Setup in the Method Editor. Before you can start you need to create a new method, for example by using a method wizard. You can also add a Scouting Scheme to an existing method.

Note: Variables must be defined for Scouting.

Example: Flow-Rate Scouting

The table below describes how to set up a Scouting Scheme.

Step

Action

1

Click the Scouting tab in the Run Setup.

Result: A Scouting Variables dialog box opens.

2

  • Click the checkbox for the variable Flow_Rate and any other variable you wish to scout, e.g. BufferPrep_pH.

  • Click OK.

Result: The selected scouting variables will appear in a column.

3

Click Add to create a second column for the next run. This column will have the same values as the previous column.

4

Change variable values in the same manner as on the Variables page.

See How to use the Method Wizard

6

Repeat steps 3 and 4 until you have defined all the runs you require.

7

Select the File:Save menu command.

The Scouting tab

The illustration below shows the Scouting tab in the Run Setup.

How to edit a Scouting Scheme

The table below describes how to edit a Scouting Scheme:

If you want...

then...

to select a run

click the column header.

to delete a run

select the column and click the Delete button.

Result: The column is removed.

to exclude a run

right-click the column header.

Result: The column is marked Excluded and will not be executed. It will still remain in the scouting scheme.

to insert a new run

select the column to the left of the position where you want to insert the new column, and click the Insert button.

Result: A new column is added immediately to the right of the selected column.

to define new scouting variables

Click the Define button.

Result: The Scouting Variables dialog box opens.

The scouting results

When the method is started the scouting runs are performed automatically. Each method run in the Scouting Scheme generates a separate result file, which is stored in a special scouting directory.

2005-06-15