How to use the Method Wizard

Introduction

This section describes how to use the Method Wizard to create a new method. For most purposes, customized methods can be created simply by setting appropriate values for the method variables.

Are wizards always available?

Wizards are available for ÄKTAdesign systems delivered with standard strategies. If your system is a process systems please refer to the system documentation.

How does the wizard work?

The Method Wizard consists of a number of dialog boxes in which you answer questions and receive instructions on how to create your method. The options in subsequent boxes depend on the choices you have made in the initial dialog box.

How to create a new method

The table below describes an example of how to create a method with the Method Wizard.

Step

Action

1

Click the Method Wizard icon in the Method Editor module.

Result: The Method Wizard dialog box appears.

Note: If several systems are available you must first select which system you want to use.

2

Select the appropriate parameter values and click Next.

Note: Click Set Default to restore all settings to the default values.

3

On each new dialog page, select the appropriate parameter values and click Next to continue.

4

Click Finish in the last window.

Result: Run Setup opens.

The Run Setup

The Run Setup consists of a number of tab pages. Click the tabs at the top of the dialog box to select a tab page.

Run Setup Variables

The method is represented by a number of blocks on the Variables tab. The blocks are typical steps in a chromatographic run.

Each block contains a number of Variables, with suitable default values that can be changed to suit your application. Some values are normally hidden. Click the checkbox Show Details to display hidden variables.

Default values

When you select a column, default values will be set for:

  • The correct column volume.

  • The recommended flow rate.

  • The correct pressure limit.

Note: If you exceed the recommended values for the selected column you will receive a warning when you save your method.

The Gradient page

The Gradient tab shows the method graphically:

The length of each block is marked at the bottom of the graph.

  • Click the x-axis to view the method in time, volume or column volumes (CV).

The Start Protocol

The Start Protocol tab shows the items that will be displayed as dialog boxes in the Run Setup sequence.

  • Click the checkboxes for the items that you want to select.

How to save your method

Before you can run your method you must save it.

  • Select File:Save.

or

  • Click the Save icon.

2005-06-15