How to use the Method Wizard

Introduction

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

Note: Each method is written for a specific strategy. The function of the method cannot be guaranteed on systems having other strategies.

Are wizards always available?

Method Wizards are available for some ÄKTAdesign systems delivered with standard strategies. Method Wizards are not available for process systems.

How to create a new method

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

Step

Action

1

Click the Method Wizard icon on the Method Editor module or choose File:Method Wizard.

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 the Next button.

Note: Click Set Default on the first wizard page to restore all settings to the default values.

3

In each new dialog box, select the appropriate parameter values and click the Next button to continue.

Note: Select a column even if you want to perform a test run without a column. Use a small column. Replace the column with a piece of tubing when you run the method.

4

Click the Finish button in the last dialog box.

Result: The Run Setup opens.

The Run Setup

The Run Setup consists of a number of tabs. Click on the appropriate tab at the top to select it.

The Variables tab

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 Method Variables with suitable default values that can be changed to suit your application. Only the most commonly used variables are initially shown on the page. Click the Show details check box to display all variables in the method.

Default values for columns

When you select a column, default values will be set for several parameters including the following:

  • 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 tab

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.

  • Drag the Y-axis to display a marker in the gradient. The Base value, Gradient value and Block name at the current marker position will be displayed in the upper part of the graph.

How to save the new method

A new method created from a Wizard is untitled, and must be saved under a method name before it can be used. The table below describes how to save a new method.

Step

Action

1

Click the Save Method toolbar or choose File:Save.

2

  • If required, save the method in a folder other than the default home folder.

  • Enter a Method name for the method. The total path can be up to 256 characters long. The method name must be unique for the chosen system within the folder.

3

  • If you have more than one system connected to the computer, choose the System for which the method is intended. The method can be run on any system that uses the same strategy. Remember that different systems may have different configurations and control capabilities.

  • Choose the Technique for which the method was written.

4

Click OK.

Result: The method is saved, but remains open in the Method Editor, so that you can continue editing if you wish.

Note: You might want to sign your method. If you do so, you can choose to lock the method so that nobody will be able to change the method. See How to sign the method for further instructions.

2005-06-15