What is the difference between instruments controlled digitally by Clarity and those connected via analog data acquisition?

Clarity Chromatography Software supports two main ways to connect instruments:

1. Digitally Controlled Instruments – Clarity communicates with the instrument directly, can control it, and collects data digitally.
2. Analog Instruments – The instrument sends an analog voltage signal, which is digitized by a A/D converter Colibrick, but Clarity cannot control the instrument except for some basic synchronization – all settings must be configured manually on the device itself.

Each option offers a different level of integration, automation, and data quality.

1. Digitally Controlled Instruments – Full Control and Communication

These instruments are fully integrated with Clarity using a digital interface (RS232, USB, LAN, etc.). Communication is bi-directional: Clarity can send commands to the instrument and receive data, status, and error messages.

Key benefits:

• Control instrument parameters directly from Clarity (e.g., flow, temperature, gradient, wavelength).
• Start/stop the device or switch valves remotely.
• Receive feedback from the instrument (diagnostics, status, alerts).
• Synchronize the whole workflow, including autosamplers and detectors.
• Automate complex sequences (startup, conditioning, analysis, shutdown).
• Audit trail: All settings used during the analysis are logged automatically.

This setup is ideal for labs that need high efficiency, traceability, and regulatory compliance.

2. Analog Instruments – Signal Only, No Control

Analog instruments do not communicate with Clarity. Instead, they generate an analog voltage signal (typically 0–1 V or 0–10 V), which is digitized by a A/D converter Colibrick before being processed and displayed in Clarity.

These instruments provide data only — no direct parameter control or feedback is possible, though basic synchronization (e.g. start signals, digital outputs) is supported.

What you can do:

• Acquire the detector signal through an A/D converter.
• Trigger external devices (e.g., autosamplers) via digital outputs.
• Start acquisition using an external start signal.
• In some cases, control gradients via analog output using Zebrick D/A converter.

What you cannot do:

• Set or change any instrument parameters from Clarity.
• Monitor instrument status or errors.
• Synchronize methods or workflows.
• Automatically log instrument settings.

All adjustments (flow, temp, wavelength, etc.) must be done manually on the instrument's physical interface.