Advanced Instruments OsmoTECH XT User manual

OsmoTECH® XT
Single-Sample
Micro-Osmometer
UserGuide
235005EN Rev 2

2
OsmoTECH XT Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide
Copyright and trademarks
© 2021 Advanced Instruments
This user guide is copyrighted by Advanced Instruments with all rights reserved. Under copyright laws, this guide may not
be reproduced in any form, in whole or part, without the prior written consent of Advanced Instruments. The following are
trademarks of Advanced Instruments:
• OsmoTECH®
• Protinol™
• Clinitrol™
Employees of Advanced Instruments have reviewed this guide thoroughly. Although material contained within is believed
reliable, the accuracy and completeness are not guaranteed or warranted, and are not intended to be representations or
warranties concerning the product described. Screenshots and images included in this manual are for purposes of example
only and may not be an exact match with the screens you see.

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OsmoTECH XT Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide
Contents
Contacting Advanced Instruments............................ 5
Supplies, standards and controls............................... 6
Quality control................................................................ 7
Safe use............................................................................ 9
Foreword.........................................................................12
Chapter 1: Installation and setup...............................16
1.1 Selecting a location for the instrument................................ 16
1.2 Unpacking the shipment ............................................................ 16
1.3 OsmoTECH XT components..................................................... 17
1.4 Placing a test kit on the instrument....................................... 17
1.5 Connecting to a network (optional) ...................................... 18
Setting the installation date (Administrators only)....... 18
1.6 Configuring the OsmoTECH XT settings ............................. 19
Chapter 2: User interface...........................................20
2.1 Touchscreen ...................................................................................20
2.2 Common screen elements........................................................20
2.3 Home screen ................................................................................... 21
Understanding the status icons ........................................... 22
Viewing instrument assistance information .................... 23
2.4 Main menu....................................................................................... 24
2.5 User interface icons..................................................................... 25
Chapter 3: Configuring settings...............................26
3.1 The Settings screen..................................................................... 26
3.2 Setting the date and time ......................................................... 26
Synchronizing to a network time server .......................... 26
Entering the date and time manually ................................ 27
3.3 Changing the language.............................................................. 27
3.4 Setting up user accounts .......................................................... 27
Adding a user.............................................................................. 28
Editing a user.............................................................................. 28
Deleting/disabling a user ....................................................... 28
Configuring Service account access (Administrators
only)................................................................................................ 29
Connecting to an LDAP server............................................. 29
3.5 Changing hardware options.....................................................30
Changing the audio click tone .............................................30
Changing the screen brightness..........................................30
Turning on the barcode scanner..........................................30
3.6 Changing the probe resistance................................................ 31
3.7 Establishing control limits.......................................................... 31
Editing a control ........................................................................ 32
Deleting a control...................................................................... 32
Displaying and exporting control data ............................. 32
Setting up warnings for a control ....................................... 33
3.8 Setting up networking communications............................. 33
Configuring a LAN connection............................................. 33
Enabling OPC-UA on the instrument.................................34
OPC-UA implementation........................................................ 34
OPC-UA communication with the instrument ...............34
Requirements..............................................................................34
Supported OPC Features ...........................................................34
Enabling the web server......................................................... 38
Viewing and printing data from the webserver............ 38
Connecting to a LIS.................................................................. 39
Send-results mode....................................................................40
3.9 Managing instrument data........................................................40
Configuring data export .........................................................40
Exporting data manually ......................................................... 41
Backing up the database......................................................... 41
Backing up databases manually.......................................... 42
Viewing backup data with the AI Database Viewer
software ........................................................................................ 43
Configuring data recording (Administrators only)....... 43
Importing/restoring database records (Administrators
only)................................................................................................43
Preparing to import from a USB drive...................................44
Preparing to import from a network folder.........................44
Importing the data .......................................................................44
Exporting a single result ........................................................45
3.10 Assigning user restrictions .......................................................46
Changing password settings.................................................46
Configuring testing access .................................................... 47
Configuring audits of test results (approvals, reviews,
and comments) ..........................................................................48
Setting timeouts ........................................................................49
3.11 Updating the instrument (Administrators/authorized
supervisors only) .........................................................................49

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OsmoTECH XT Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide
Chapter 4: Testing samples.......................................50
4.1 Daily procedure.............................................................................50
4.2 Sample preparation...................................................................... 51
4.3 Best practices ................................................................................. 51
4.4 Preparing the OsmoTECH XT for testing............................. 51
4.5 Testing procedure ........................................................................ 52
Logging in and entering a sample ID ................................ 52
Testing a sample ........................................................................ 52
Preparing the instrument for the next test......................54
4.6 Scanning barcodes .....................................................................54
Supported barcode formats..................................................54
4.7 Repeatability tips ......................................................................... 55
Chapter 5: Calibration ................................................56
5.1 Factory calibration.......................................................................56
5.2 When to recalibrate.....................................................................56
5.3 Configuring the operating range ........................................... 56
5.4 Calibration procedure................................................................. 57
5.5 Canceling calibration .................................................................. 58
Canceling the test in progress.............................................. 58
Canceling the entire calibration........................................... 58
5.6 Calibration errors.......................................................................... 59
Chapter 6: Results ...................................................... 60
6.1 Viewing and exporting results ................................................60
Filtering the results list............................................................. 61
Exporting the results................................................................. 61
Applying an action to results record .................................. 61
6.2 Signing for reviews and approvals......................................... 62
6.3 Adding comments ....................................................................... 63
Chapter 7: Diagnostics ...............................................64
7.1 Accessing the Diagnostics menu ...........................................64
7.2 Testing A/D functions.................................................................64
7.3 Checking consumables status.................................................65
7.4 Testing the sample probe..........................................................66
7.5 Testing the barcode scanner....................................................66
7.6 Viewing and exporting events.................................................66
Filtering the Events list............................................................ 67
7.7 Testing the printer........................................................................ 68
7.8 Testing the LCD............................................................................. 68
7.9 Testing the solenoid .................................................................... 68
7.10 Logging instrument maintenance and repair....................69
Logging routine instrument cleaning ................................69
Logging preventative maintenance (Administrators
only)................................................................................................69
Logging repair information (Administrators only)....... 70
Chapter 8: Maintenance and troubleshooting .......71
8.1 Who should perform service .................................................... 71
8.2 Issues that require a service technician................................ 71
8.3 ESD precautions ............................................................................ 71
8.4 Maintenance ................................................................................... 72
Chamber cleaning ..................................................................... 72
Solenoid maintenance ............................................................. 72
Fuse replacement...................................................................... 73
Sampler plunger wire replacement and verification.... 74
8.5 Troubleshooting............................................................................ 76
General errors ............................................................................. 76
Errors during calibration......................................................... 76
Errors during testing ................................................................ 76
Appendix A: Performance characteristics ............. 77
Appendix B: Product specifications........................ 78
Appendix C: Known limitations................................79
Appendix D: Regulatory notices..............................80
Appendix E: OsmoTECH XT LIS Specification .....82
E.1 Purpose ............................................................................................ 82
E.2 Overview.......................................................................................... 82
E.3 Basic operation ............................................................................. 82
E.4 Low-level protocol ....................................................................... 83
E.5 Message layer ................................................................................84
E.6 Header record................................................................................ 85
E.7 Sample information record....................................................... 85
E.8 Test order record.......................................................................... 85
E.9 Result record..................................................................................86
Appendix F: OsmoTECH XT Data Management
Features .........................................................................88
Appendix G: OPC-UA Features and Configuration ..
..........................................................................................89
G.1 OPC-UA overview ........................................................................89
Functional equivalence ........................................................... 89
Cross-platform support........................................................... 89
Security ......................................................................................... 89
Information modeling .............................................................. 89
Appendix I: User Access Quick Reference............ 90
I.1 Purpose ...........................................................................................90
I.2 Definitions .......................................................................................90
I.3 Accessible functions by user access level ..........................90
Appendix J: Product disposal and recycling ........93
Appendix K: Warranty and warranty duties..........94

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OsmoTECH XT Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide
Contacting Advanced Instruments
General inquiries
• US or Canada
• Toll free phone: [phone] from 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Eastern time
• Outside the US or Canada:
• Phone: [phone]
• Email: [e-mail]
• Web: aicompanies.com
Customer Service/Orders
To order supplies for your OsmoTECH XT, contact the Customer Service department.
• US or Canada
• Toll free phone: [phone] from 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Eastern time
• Outside the US or Canada:
• Phone: [phone]
• Email: [e-mail]
Technical Service
For any questions or problems related to operation or service, contact the Hot-Line Technical Service department.
• US or Canada
• Toll free phone: [phone] from 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Eastern time;
after normal business hours, follow prompts
• Outside the US or Canada:
• Phone: [phone]
• Email: [e-mail]

7
OsmoTECH XT Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide
Supplies, standards and controls
To order supplies, standards, and controls email or call customer service. See Contacting Advanced Instruments.
General supplies
Item Part #
XT100 test kit (1 box of 100 sampler tips
andchamber cleaners, and 1 plunger wire) XT100
Replacement plunger wire 3M0828A
20-μL Ease-Eject™ Sampler 3M0825
Replacement sample probe 135061R
OsmoTECH XT User Guide USB drive 235005UG
Calibration standards
Item Part
0 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard
(ten 2-mL ampules)
3MA000
500 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard
(ten 5-mL ampules)
3LA051
1500 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard
(ten 5-mL ampules)
3LA151
3000 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard
(ten 5-mL ampules)
3LA301
4000 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard
(ten 2-mL ampules)
3MA400
Reference solutions and controls
Item
Clinitrol™ 290 Reference Solution
(ten 2-mL ampules)
3MA029
Osmolality Linearity Set (5 levels)
(ten 2-mL ampules)
3LA028
Protinol™ Protein-Based Serum Controls
(3levels) (nine 5-mL vials)
3MA028
Other standards
Item Part #
50 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard
(ten 2-mL ampules)
3MA005
100 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard
(ten 5-mL ampules)
3LA011
200 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard
(ten 2-mL ampules)
3MA020
300 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard
(ten 2-mL ampules)
3MA003
400 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard
(ten 2-mL ampules)
3MA040
850 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard
(ten 2-mL ampules)
3MA085
900 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard
(ten 5-mL ampules)
3LA091
1000 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard
(ten 2-mL ampules)
3MA100
1500 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard
(ten 5-mL ampules)
3LA151
2000 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard
(ten 2-mL ampules)
3MA200
Accessories
Item Part #
Compatible dot matrix printer and cable 135022
Printer paper AN2TP5

8
OsmoTECH XT Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide
Quality control
1 United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Standard 785 Osmolality and Osmolarity (2009). United States Pharmacopeia.
2 European Pharmacopeia (EP) Standard 7.3, Section 2.2.35 Osmolality (2012). European Pharmacopeia.
3 Japanese Pharmacopeia (JP) Standard XVI, Section 2.47 Osmolarity Determination, Japanese Pharmacopeia
This page describes quality control materials recommended by Advanced Instruments for use with the OsmoTECH XT.
Advanced Instruments recommends that you incorporate these materials into your quality control management system.
Regulatory Guidance
• United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Standard 785:
Confirm the instrument calibration with a solution such
that the osmolality of the Standard Solution lies within
50 mOsm/kg of the expected value of the Test
Solution or the center of the expected range of
osmolality of the Test Solution.1
• European Pharmacopeia (EP) and Japanese
Pharmacopeia (JP) may also be referenced.2,3
Calibration standards, reference solutions, and controls
Advanced Instruments calibration standards, reference
solutions, and controls consist of stable sodium chloride
solutions of known freezing points which bracket those
of the expected unknowns. These standards are
traceable to the National Institute of Standards and
Technology (formerly the National Bureau of Standards).
If you use your osmometer to test biological solutions,
you should also test the osmometer using actual
biological solutions or controls formulated to simulate
biological solutions. Contact your Advanced Instruments
representative to obtain Protinol Protein-Based Serum
Controls.
In addition, Advanced Instruments recommends that you
check with your professional associations and regulatory
bodies for their guidelines, rules, and regulations.
Verifying calibration daily
Verify the accuracy of the OsmoTECH XT daily using
Advanced Instruments reference solutions and controls.
Compare the test results produced by the instrument to
expected values. Recalibrate the instrument if the test
results are outside of the expected ranges. After
recalibrating, re-run the reference solutions and controls
to verify that you obtain the expected results.
We recommend using Clinitrol 290 Reference Solution
and an osmolality control closer to your expected
osmolality range. Use these reference solutions and
controls:
• Daily, prior to testing samples, to verify instrument
operation and confirm calibration
• After performing a recalibration
Verifying linearity
Verify the linearity of the OsmoTECH XT using the
Osmolality Linearity Set. Use the linearity set:
• To verify the linearity and reportable range of the
instrument
• After performing a recalibration
Strengthen your laboratory’s Quality Control program
by using products made specifically for your
osmometer. Use Advanced Instruments reference
solutions and controls to evaluate the performance
and precision of your osmometer:
• Clinitrol™ 290 Reference Solution: Clinitrol is a true
reference designed specifically for osmometers. It
provides results that approximate the osmolality of
normal serum.
• Protinol™ Protein-Based Osmolality Controls Protinol
Controls are formulated to mimic serum at 240, 280,
and 320 mOsm/kg H2O.
• Osmolality Linearity Set: Helps laboratories easily
monitor osmometer performance specifications.

Quality control
9
OsmoTECH XT Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide
Interpreting results
Data generated using Advanced Instruments standards and reference solutions may be analyzed according to the accuracy
and precision specifications of the instrument (see Performance characteristics).
Laboratories may choose to employ one, two, or three standard deviations (SD) for accuracy based on what is relevant in
their laboratories. For normally distributed data, approximately 68% of the individual data values will fall within one
standard deviation of the mean, approximately 95% within two standard deviations, and approximately 99.7% within three
standard deviations.
Advanced Instruments Standards
and Reference Solutions Precision
Accuracy (mOsm/kg H2O)
1 SD 2 SD 3 SD
Clinitrol™ 290 Reference Solution Standard deviation ≤ 2 mOsm/kg H2O 288–292 286–294 284–296
0 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Standard deviation ≤ 2 mOsm/kg H2O 0-2 0-4 0-6
50 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Standard deviation ≤ 2 mOsm/kg H2O 48–52 46–54 44–56
100 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Standard deviation ≤ 2 mOsm/kg H2O 98–102 96–104 94–106
200 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Standard deviation ≤ 2 mOsm/kg H2O 198–202 196–204 194–206
300 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Standard deviation ≤ 2 mOsm/kg H2O 298–302 296–304 294–306
400 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Standard deviation ≤ 2 mOsm/kg H2O 398–402 396–404 394–406
500 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Coecient of variation ≤ 0.5% 497-503 494-506 491-509
850 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Coecient of variation ≤ 0.5% 845-855 840-860 835-865
900 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Coecient of variation ≤ 0.5% 895-905 890-910 885-915
1000 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Coecient of variation ≤ 0.5% 995–1005 990–1010 985–1015
1500 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Coecient of variation ≤ 1% 1485–1515 1470–1530 1455–1545
2000 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Coecient of variation ≤ 1% 1980–2020 1960–2040 1940–2060
3000 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Coecient of variation ≤ 1% 2970–3030 2940–3060 2910–3090
4000 mOsm/kg Calibration Standard Coecient of variation ≤ 1% 3960–4040 3920–4080 3880–4120

10
OsmoTECH XT Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide
Safe use
WARNING: To reduce the risk of bodily injury, electric shock, fire, and damage to your instrument, please read and observe
all precautions in this User Guide.
Only operate this product in accordance with the equipment design, operating instructions, and manufacturer
recommendations; to do otherwise may impair the instrument function or create a safety hazard.
Do not attempt to perform electrical work if you are not fully qualified. This manual is not a substitute for electrical
training.
General cautions
• Only power this instrument with the source specified
on the product electrical ratings label. Refer to the
installation instructions.
• If the power cord provided is replaced for any reason
or if an alternate cord is used, the cord must be
approved for use in the local country. The power cord
must be approved for the product listed operating
voltage and be rated at least 20% greater than the
volt-ampere (VA) ratings marked on the product’s
electrical ratings label. The cord end that connects to
the product must have an IEC 60320 connector.
• Plug the product into an approved grounded electrical
outlet. Exposure to AC voltage could lead to electric
shock, burn or electrocution. Please be aware of any
exposure of AC voltage in the power cord.
• Do not disable the power cord grounding pin.
• If an extension cord or power strip is used, make sure
that the cord or strip is rated for the product, and that
the total ampere ratings of all products plugged into
the extension cord or strip do not exceed 80% of the
cord or strip rating limit.
• Route power cords so that they will not be walked on,
tripped on, or pinched by items placed upon or
against them. Pay particular attention to the plug,
electrical outlet, and the point where the cord exits the
product.
• Do not pull on cords and cables; grasp the
corresponding connector to unplug it.
• Do not install or use this product in any area subject to
extreme short-term temperature variations, or
locations that exceed the specified operating
environment temperatures.
• Never use this product in a wet area.
• To avoid injury or fire hazard, do not operate this
product in an explosive atmosphere.
• Do not install or use the product on an unstable,
non-level work surface.
• Do not operate this product with the covers removed
or unsecured.

Safe use
11
OsmoTECH XT Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide
Symbol conventions
The list of symbols below is for reference only. Some symbols shown below might not appear on the instrument or in the
accompanying documentation.
Symbol Description
!
This symbol alerts the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions.
This symbol alerts the user to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage inside the enclosure that may
constitute risk of electric shock to persons.
This symbol alerts the user to the presence of internal components that could be damaged by static electricity.
This symbol alerts users to the presence of biological substances that may pose a threat to the health of living
organisms, primarily that of humans.
This symbol indicates potential puncture hazards; users keep hands clear.
This symbol alerts the user to the presence of a specific component that could be damaged by static electricity.
This symbol indicates the presence of alternating current (AC).
This symbol indicates the presence of a fuse.
This symbol indicates the presence of protective earth ground.
This symbol indicates the power is ON.
This symbol indicates the power is OFF.
Read the manual.
Keep dry.
Do not reuse.
Sucient for 100 uses.
LOT Lot number.
Manufactured by.

Safe use
12
OsmoTECH XT Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide
FCC Statement
WARNING: Changes or modifications to this unit not
expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the
equipment.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply
with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to
Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference when the equipment is operated in a
commercial environment. This equipment generates,
uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if
not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to
radio communications. Operation of this equipment in
a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference
in which case the user will be required to correct the
interference at his own expense.
Industry Canada Statement
CAUTION: Any changes or modifications not expressly
approved by the party responsible for compliance could
void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
ATTENTION: Tout changement ou modification non
expressément approuvé par la partie responsable de la
conformité pourrait annuler l’autorisation de l’utilisateur
d’utiliser l’équipement.
This device complies with Industry Canada license-
exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device may not
cause interference, and (2) this device must accept
any interference, including interference that may cause
undesired operation of the device.
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d’Industrie
Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de
licence. L’exploitation est autorisée aux deux
conditions suivantes: (1) l’appareil ne doit pas produire
de brouillage, et (2) l’utilisateur de l’appareil doit
accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si
le brouillage est susceptible d’en compromettre le
fonctionnement.
BIOHAZARDOUS MATERIAL CAUTION
WARNING: Handle all biohazardous materials according
to established good laboratory practices and follow
your institution exposure control plan. Persons handling
blood and body fluid samples must be trained in
blood-borne hazards and should observe Universal
Precautions for Preventing Transmission of Bloodborne
Infections as defined by the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC). The Universal Precautions
guideline provides infection control by treating all
blood and body fluids as if known to be infectious. Use
personal protective equipment such as gloves, gowns,
etc., to prevent exposure. Store biohazardous materials
in regulated waste containers and dispose of these
materials in a safe and acceptable manner that is in
compliance with all country, state and local
requirements.
If a biohazardous material is spilled on or inside the
equipment, decontaminate the equipment using a 1%
bleach solution, or as outlined by those policies and
procedures established within your institution.
To avoid injury or fire hazard, do not operate this
product in an explosive atmosphere.
Use caution and appropriate personal protective
equipment (PPE) if you must put your hands inside the
osmometer. Placing hands into the opening could result
in skin punctures or other injuries.

13
OsmoTECH XT Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide
Foreword
Intended use
Advanced Instruments osmometers use the technique of
freezing point depression to measure osmolality.
Osmolality is the total solute concentration of an
aqueous solution. Osmometers measure the number of
solute particles irrespective of molecular weight or ionic
charge.
Osmolality information is useful to the following
disciplines:
• Medical research
• Biotechnology and pharmaceutical research and
manufacturing
• Academic research
• Industrial applications
NOTE: OsmoTECH XT is not for patient diagnostic use.
Osmolality is a valuable in-process test that provides a
reliable and repeatable value that reflects overall solute
content of a solution. Osmolality is a critical indicator
used throughout the bioproduction process to assure the
highest quality and yield of biologics. It should be a
routine and frequent check to prevent costly loss of
product or suboptimal production and to ensure the
process is within specification.
Principles of freezing point depression
When a solute is dissolved in a pure solvent, the
following changes in the solution’s properties occur:
• Freezing point is depressed
• Boiling point is raised
• Osmotic pressure is increased
• Vapor pressure is lowered
These are the so-called colligative or concentrative
properties of the solution which, within reasonable limits,
change in direct proportion to the solute concentration
(the number of particles in solution).
Of the colligative properties, measurement of the
freezing point easily permits the precise determination
of the concentration of an aqueous solution. The freezing
point of pure H2O is precisely +0.010 °C. One mole of a
non-dissociating solute (a substance which does not
dissociate into ionic species), such as glucose dissolved
in 1 kilogram (kg) of water, depresses the freezing point
of the water by 1.858 °C. This change is known as the
freezing point depression constant for water. The
freezing point depression also depends on the degree of
dissociation of the solute. If the solute is ionic, each ionic
species depresses the freezing point by 1.858 °C. For
example, if one mole of sodium chloride (NaCl) were to
completely dissociate into two ionic species (Na+ and
Cl-) in 1 kg of water, the freezing point would be
depressed by 3.716 °C. However, dissociation is never
complete. Interference between solute molecules
reduces dissociation by a factor called the osmotic
coecient.
In a simple solution (for example, glucose or sodium
chloride in water), the freezing point can be measured
and the unit concentration easily determined from an
equation or a reference table. However, the equation is
unique for each solute. In a more complex solution, all
ionized and non-dissociated species contribute to the
freezing point depression. The concentration of each
solute cannot be easily determined.
Each of the colligative properties has a similar problem.
Though each of the colligative properties changes in
direct proportion to the solute concentration, each
requires a dierent mode and unit of measurement.
Osmolality is a common unit of concentration
measurement that relates all the colligative properties to
each other, and to other concentration units. Because of
its universality, most osmometry applications regularly
use osmolality—expressed as mOsm/kg H2O—as the
common unit of concentration rather than applying
further conversion factors.
Instrumentation
Advanced Instruments Osmometers measure the
freezing point of an aqueous solution to determine
solute concentration. Advanced Instruments
Osmometers utilize high precision thermistors to sense
the sample temperature, to control the degree of super
cooling and freeze induction, and to measure the
freezing point of the sample. The thermistor can
determine dierences of ±1 mOsm/kg H2O.

Foreword
14
OsmoTECH XT Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide
Freezing-point thermodynamics
The quickest and most precise way to measure the freezing point of a solution is to supercool it several degrees below its
freezing point and inducing crystallization of the solution via mechanical agitation. The sudden liberation of energy (heat
of fusion) causes the sample temperature to rise toward a plateau temperature, where a liquid/solid equilibrium occurs.
The equilibrium temperature is the freezing point of the solution.
The duration of the liquid/solid equilibrium phase is a function of the speed at which the heat of fusion is liberated versus
the speed at which it is dissipated to the surrounding environment. This ratio can be slowed to prolong the equilibrium
time, giving a distinct plateau measurable to 0.001 °C.
Sensitive thermistor probes monitor the sample temperature and control the thermoelectric cooling element.
Microprocessor control and automated operation minimize imprecision introduced by operator technique.
The standard freezing curve shown below illustrates the temperature of a sample as it progresses through the freezing
cycle and shows the action of the osmometer at each stage of the cycle.

Foreword
15
OsmoTECH XT Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide
Definitions
Following are key terms relevant to the science of osmolality.
Avogadro’s number
The number of molecules in one mole (gram molecular weight) of a substance. One mole of non-ionic solute (such as
sucrose) dissolved in one kilogram of water will yield Avogadro’s number (6.022 x 1023) of molecules. One mole of
ionic solute dissolved in one kilogram of water will yield almost twice Avogadro’s number of particles.
Colligative properties
The properties of solutions depend on the number of particles in each volume of solvent, not the mass of the particles.
Colligative properties include: vapor pressure, boiling point, freezing point and osmotic pressure (see also
Concentrative Properties).
Concentration
The relative amount of solute in a solution. This can be expressed in many ways: solute to solvent, solute to solution,
mass to mass, mass to volume, etc.
Concentrative properties
When a solute is dissolved in solvent, certain properties of the solvent—freezing point, boiling point, vapor pressure,
and osmotic pressure—are changed nearly in proportion to the concentration of the solute, expressed in dissolved
particles. Avogadro’s number of particles, regardless of their size or shape, when dissolved in a kilogram of water, will
change each of the concentrative properties a specific amount.
Freezing point osmometers
Instruments which measure the osmotic strength of solution by using freezing point depression.
Freezing point depression
The phenomenon where the freezing point of a liquid (a solvent) is depressed when another compound is added,
meaning a solution has a lower freezing point than a pure solvent.
Ionic solution
Certain molecules, when dissolved, dissociate into charged particles called ions. A good example is sodium chloride
(NaCl), which dissociates in solution to sodium ions (Na+) and chlorine (Cl-) ions.
Membrane osmometers
Instruments which measure the osmotic pressure of a solution separated by a semi-permeable membrane.
Molality
Molal concentration – grams of solute per kilogram of solvent.
Molarity
Molar concentration – grams of solute per liter of solution.
Mole
Molecular weight expressed in grams. Each mole contains Avogadro’s number (6.022 x 1023) of molecules. One mole
of sodium chloride weighs 58.44 grams.
Molecular weight
The sum of the atomic weights of all the atoms in a molecule.

Foreword
16
OsmoTECH XT Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide
Non-ionic solution
Certain molecules, when dissolved, do not dissociate or ionize into charged particles. Good examples are glucose and
urea.
Osmol (or Osmole)
The standard unit of osmolality based on a one molal concentration of an ion in a solution.
Osmolality
The number of osmoles of solute per kilogram of solvent (temperature independent).
Osmolality equation
Osmolality is the number of osmoles of solute particles per kilogram of pure solvent. Since most ionic species do not
completely dissociate, osmolality is a unit of concentration, which must take into account the dissociative eect.
Osmolality is usually expressed in mOsm/kg H₂O. One milliosmole (mOsm) is 10-3 osmoles. The osmolality equation is:
Osmolality = ϕnC = osmole / kg H₂O
where:
ϕ= osmotic coecient, which accounts for the degree of molecular dissociation
n = number of particles into which a molecule can dissociate
C = molal concentration of the solution
Osmolarity
The number of osmoles of solute per liter of solution (temperature dependent).
Osmotic pressure
The hydrostatic pressure produced by a dierence in concentration between solutions on two sides of a surface such
as a semi-permeable membrane.
Solutes
The minor components of a solution which is dissolved into the solvent.
Solutions
The homogeneous mixture of solutes in a solvent.
Solvent
The major liquid component of a solution and the substance into which a solute is dissolved.
Vapor pressure osmometers
Instruments which measure the concentration of osmotically active particles which reduce the vapor pressure of the
solution.

17
OsmoTECH XT Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide
Chapter 1
Chapter 1: Installation and setup
To set up your instrument properly, it is important to read and carefully follow the steps in this section. Also read
Testing samples before attempting to run your instrument.
1.1 Selecting a location for the instrument
Select a location for the OsmoTECH XT based on the
following space and electrical requirements.
OsmoTECH XT dimensions
• Not including test kit:
15" D x 14" W x 10" H
(38 cm D x 36 cm W x 25 cm H)
• Including test kit:
15" D x 14" W x 11.5" H
(38 cm D x 36 cm W x 29 cm H)
Recommended clearance
Allow 6 inches (15 cm) of clear space on each side of the
instrument.
Do not block the exhaust fan airflow on the back panel
or underneath the instrument.
Electrical requirements
Your instrument must be located within five
feet of a properly grounded, three-prong
electrical outlet capable of continuously
supplying 0.5 amperes at 100–240 VAC
(50–60Hz).
If the instrument is not grounded properly, its
operation may be impaired and a safety hazard
may exist. Verify that the outlet is appropriate
before operating your instrument.
Do not disable the grounding plug.
1.2 Unpacking the shipment
The following table lists the items contained in your
shipment.
Qty Description
1 OsmoTECH XT Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer
1 20-µL Ease-Eject™ Sampler
1 Power cord
1 User Guide on USB drive
NOTE: Advanced Instruments cannot guarantee the
stated instrument performance specifications
and accuracy of test results unless Advanced
Instruments brand consumables, standards, and
controls are used with the instrument.
• For information on obtaining Advanced Instruments
brand items, see Supplies, standards and controls.
• For information about Advanced Instruments references
and controls, see Quality control.
NOTE: Use of consumables, standards, or controls from
manufacturers other than Advanced Instruments
is not recommended and may adversely aect
system calibration, performance, operation, and
accuracy of test results.
Carefully unpack the instrument, accessories, and
supplies and inspect them for shipping damage. Use the
enclosed packing list to verify that all items are received.
1. If any item on the packing list appears to be missing
from your shipment, please search carefully through
and under all packing materials. If you don't find the
item, notify your receiving department immediately.
Advanced Instruments can only be responsible for
items reported missing within 10 days of a shipment
arrival.
2. Save the shipping boxes and packaging material for
future use if transport of the instrument becomes
necessary.

Chapter 1 Installation and setup
18
OsmoTECH XT Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide
3. If you receive any damaged items, save the cartons
and packing material for inspection by the insurer.
You must notify both the dealer and Advanced
Instruments within 24 hours to ensure that your
warranty and insurance can be applied. Ask the
transportation company to inspect the items,
complete a Report of Concealed Damage and then
file your claim. Contact Advanced Instruments
immediately for repair or replacement of the items.
4. Complete the online warranty card to register your
product.
1.3 OsmoTECH XT components
Major components of the OsmoTECH XT along with
consumables used with the instrument are identified
below.
E
D
F
B
G
C
A
I
H
A. Chamber cleaner
B. Sampler tips
C. Micro-sample Test Kit
D. Cooling chamber
(internal)
E. Sampler holder (resting
place for the sampler
when it is not in use)
F. Sampler
G. Operating cradle
H. Barcode scanner
I. Touchscreen
Connecting to the printer (optional)
You can connect an Epson dot matrix printer to the
OsmoTECH XT (optional). Purchase the printer through
Advanced Instruments. See Accessories.
1. Refer to the printer’s manual to set up the printer.
NOTE: Make sure you read the safety instructions.
2. Connect the printer to a USB port on the
OsmoTECH XT.
3. Power on the printer.
The printer ready to print.
1.4 Placing a test kit on the instrument
A test kit must be in placed on the instrument before
testing can begin.
Orient the box so the chamber cleaners are in the front
and the box opens away from you.
An error message appears if the test kit is not in place
when you attempt to run a test. Once you run 100
tests, you must replace the test kit; otherwise, you
won’t be able to run a test.

Chapter 1 Installation and setup
19
OsmoTECH XT Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide
1.5 Connecting to a network (optional)
To connect the OsmoTECH XT to a laboratory
information system (LIS), a local area network (LAN), or
to enable the web server, plug an Ethernet cable
connected to your network into the Ethernet port on the
back of the OsmoTECH XT.
You must also configure the communication settings in
the OsmoTECH XT software. For more information, see
Setting up networking communications.
M
J
K
L
N
J. USB 2.0 Type A ports (2)
K. USB 2.0 Type B port
L. Ethernet port
M. Power switch
N. Plug for power cord
Powering up the instrument
1. Connect the power cord to the back of the instrument
and insert the plug into the power outlet.
2. Turn on power to the instrument using the rocker
switch on the back. Depress the side marked with the
symbol
When the instrument powers up, the splash screen .
3. After a few moments, the OsmoTECH XT Home
screen opens.
From the Home screen, you can initiate sample
testing and view the results. Initially, the instrument
status shown in the green status banner is Ready.
4. If one of the following messages appears after
starting up, follow the associated instructions:
• Preventative Maintenance Required - An Advanced
Instruments trained service engineer must perform
any scheduled maintenance and record it on the
DIAGNOSTICS>MAINTENANCE screen (see
Logging preventative maintenance).
• Installation date not set. Refer to the User Guide
- Follow the instructions in the next section, Setting
the installation date.
Setting the installation date (Administrators only)
If the installation date of the instrument has not been
entered into the system, a Installation date not set. Refer
to the User Guide message appears the first time an
instrument powers up. If the installation date is not set,
this message reappears every hour.
Complete the following steps to enter the installation
date to disable this message and enable the preventative
maintenance reminders based on this date.
1. Press >DIAGNOSTICS>MAINTENANCE and log
in.
2. Press the INSTALLATION tab.

Chapter 1 Installation and setup
20
OsmoTECH XT Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide
3. Press the Installation Date field, select a date
(required) from the calendar, and press OK.
Make sure you select the correct date. The installation
date cannot be changed once it is saved.
4. Press EDIT to type a Comment (optional - up to 1024
characters) to add information regarding the installation
date.
5. Press Save.
6. Press Exit to return to the Diagnostics menu.
1.6 Configuring the OsmoTECH XT settings
This section outlines the instrument settings you should
review and/or configure before using the OsmoTECH XT.
Each step directs you to the relevant instructions in the
Configuring settings chapter.
1. From the Home screen, navigate to the Settings
menu.
NOTE: For instructions, see Configuring settings.
2. If the instrument language is not set appropriately for
your site, change the language settings.
NOTE: For instructions, see Changing the language.
3. If the date or time displayed on the instrument is
incorrect, set the current date and time.
NOTE: For instructions, see Setting the date and
time.
4. Set up user accounts as needed.
NOTE: User accounts enable you to track which
users perform which functions, and allow you
to restrict access to some functions. If you
want to use either of those capabilities, you
must set up user accounts. For instructions,
see Setting up user accounts.
5. Perform any of the following tasks as needed
• Assign restrictions for operator-level accounts.
• Set the password expiration period.
• Configure the system to require a User ID and/or
SampleID before beginning a test.
NOTE: For instructions, see Assigning user
restrictions.
6. Configure the OsmoTECH XT to communicate with
your laboratory information system (LIS) as needed.
NOTE: For instructions, see Setting up networking
communications.
7. Configure the OsmoTECH XT to connect to your local
area network (LAN)s as needed.
NOTE: For instructions, see Setting up networking
communications.
8. Configure the OsmoTECH XT to connect to an Open
Platform Communications Unified Architecture
(OPC-UA) client as needed.
NOTE: For instructions, see Enabling OPC-UA on
the instrument.
9. Configure control limits as needed.
NOTE: For instructions, see Establishing control
limits.
10.When you have finished configuring the instrument,
press the Home button on the Settings menu to
return to the Home screen.
Setup for the OsmoTECH XT is now complete. If you
want to begin testing with the OsmoTECH XT right
away, you can skip to Testing samples.

21
OsmoTECH XT Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide
Chapter 2: User interface
This section describes elements and icons that appear in
the OsmoTECH XT user interface.
2.1 Touchscreen
The OsmoTECH XT provides a touchscreen on the front
where you will interact with the instrument. From there,
you can set parameters, enter commands, view data, and
perform other OsmoTECH XT functions.
Touchscreen
To use the touchscreen, gently press your selection using
the tip of your finger. Avoid pressing with the flat of your
finger; the screen is designed to read gentle finger
pressure.
CAUTION: Never use sharp objects, fingernails, pens,
pencils, or anything that would leave a mark on the
screen or damage it.
2.2 Common screen elements
The following table lists elements that appear on many
screens.
Item Description/Use
Status indicator:
• Green: Normal operation
• Red: System error condition
• Yellow: Test in progress
• Orange: IDs required
Current date and time
Sampler tip status:
• White: Displays number of
sampler tips remaining in
box (while count is 20 or
higher).
• Yellow: Displays “<20” when
the number of sampler tips
remaining is less than 20.
/
System tray may contain:
• LAN status: connected/
disconnected
• Legend explaining status
icons
• Assistance contact and
system information
• Message alert - Press the icon
to display message contents.
Press to display the Home
screen (displayed on Main menu
and Calibration, Settings,
Results, and Diagnostics menu
screens)