Thermo Scientific UCI-100 User manual

Universal Chromatography Interfaces
UCI-100 and UCI-50
Operating Instructions
(Original Instructions)
Revision: 4.0-a
Date: November 2011
© 2011 Thermo Fisher Scientific
Doc No. 4829.1151

Universal Chromatography Interfaces
UCI-50 and UCI-100
Operating Instructions

Universal Chromatography Interfaces
UCI-50 and UCI-100
Operating Instructions Page I
Declaration of Conformity
Product: Universal Chromatography Interface
Types: UCI-50 and UCI-100
Dionex Softon GmbH herewith declares conformity of the above products with
the respective requirements of the following regulations:
•Low-Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC
•EMC Directive 2004/108/EC
The electrical safety of the products was evaluated based on the following
standard:
•EN 61010-1: 2002
Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control and
laboratory use
Part 1: General Requirements
The Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) of the products was evaluated based
on the following standard:
•DIN EN 61326: 2006
Electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use
EMC Requirements
This declaration is issued for the manufacturer
Dionex Softron GmbH
Part of Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.
Dornierstrasse 4
D-82110 Germering
by the President, Dr. Peter Jochum.
November 2, 2011

Universal Chromatography Interfaces
UCI-50 and UCI-100
Page II Operating Instructions

Universal Chromatography Interfaces
UCI-50 and UCI-100
Operating Instructions Page i
Table of Content
1Introduction................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 How to Use this Manual ............................................................................................ 1
1.2 Safety Information ..................................................................................................... 2
1.2.1 Symbols on the Module and in the Manual...................................................... 2
1.2.2 General Safety Precautions............................................................................... 3
1.2.3 Consignes Générales de Sécurité .............................................................. 3
1.3 Intended Use .............................................................................................................. 3
1.4 Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Note.................................................. 3
2Overview ........................................................................................................................ 5
2.1 Unit Description......................................................................................................... 5
2.2 UCI Configurations.................................................................................................... 5
2.3 Front Panel Elements................................................................................................. 6
2.4 Rear Panel .................................................................................................................. 7
2.4.1 Analog Connectors ........................................................................................... 8
2.4.2 Digital Inputs .................................................................................................... 8
2.4.3 Digital Outputs ................................................................................................. 8
2.4.4 USB and LAN Ports ......................................................................................... 8
2.4.5 RS-232 Ports..................................................................................................... 9
2.4.6 BCD Inputs....................................................................................................... 9
2.4.7 Power Receptacle ............................................................................................. 9
2.5 Operation with Chromeleon..................................................................................... 10
3Installation................................................................................................................... 11
3.1 Facility Requirements.............................................................................................. 11
3.2 Unpacking................................................................................................................ 11
3.3 Connecting and Setting Up the UCI in Chromeleon ............................................... 12
3.3.1 Connecting the UCI to the Chromeleon Server PC........................................12
3.3.2 Connecting the UCI to External Devices ....................................................... 12
3.3.3 USB Installation ............................................................................................. 13
3.3.4 LAN Installation............................................................................................. 15
3.3.4.1 Connecting the UCI through an Instrument LAN (Windows NT4)........ 16
3.3.4.2 Separate Network Interface Card ............................................................ 17
3.3.4.3 Assigning IP Properties (CmIPUtil)........................................................ 21
3.3.4.4 Network Operation .................................................................................. 24
3.3.5 Setting Up the UCI in Chromeleon ................................................................ 27
3.3.5.1 Installing the UCI .................................................................................... 27
3.3.5.2 Configuring the UCI................................................................................ 28
3.3.5.3 Adding more than one UCI to the Server Configuration ........................31
3.3.5.4 Setting Up the Analog Inputs ..................................................................32
3.3.5.5 Setting Up the Digital Inputs, BCD Inputs, and Relay Outputs..............33
3.3.5.6 Assigning the RS232-Ports...................................................................... 35
3.3.5.7 Commands and Properties in Chromeleon.............................................. 35

Universal Chromatography Interfaces
UCI-50 and UCI-100
Page ii Operating Instructions
4Troubleshooting ..........................................................................................................37
5Maintenance and Service ...........................................................................................43
5.1 General Information.................................................................................................43
5.2 Updating the UCI Firmware ....................................................................................43
6Technical Information ................................................................................................45
7Accessories and Spare Parts ......................................................................................47
7.1 Standard Accessories ...............................................................................................47
7.2 Optional Accessories................................................................................................47
8Pin Assignment............................................................................................................49
8.1 General Information.................................................................................................49
8.2 Analog Inputs...........................................................................................................49
8.3 Digital Inputs............................................................................................................50
8.4 RS-232 Ports ............................................................................................................51
8.5 BCD Inputs (Sample Position Recording)...............................................................52
8.6 Power Receptacle.....................................................................................................53
9Index.............................................................................................................................55

Universal Chromatography Interfaces
UCI-50 and UCI-100
Operating Instructions Page 1
1 Introduction
1.1 How to Use this Manual
The layout of this manual is designed to provide quick reference to the sections of interest
to the reader. However, in order to obtain a full understanding of the interface, Thermo
Fisher Scientific recommends that you review the manual thoroughly before beginning
operation.
Almost all descriptions in the manual apply to all types of the Universal Chromatography
Interface. Therefore, the term "the UCI" is used throughout the manual. If some detail applies
to only one type, the type is identified by name.
Note: The device configuration may vary; therefore, not all descriptions necessarily
apply to your particular instrument.
The software descriptions in this manual refer to firmware version 3.03 and
Chromeleon™ 6.80 Service Release 11.
This manual is provided "as is." Every effort has been made to supply complete and
accurate information and all technical specifications have been developed with the utmost
care. The information contained in this manual should not be construed as a commitment
by Thermo Fisher Scientific. Thermo Fisher Scientific assumes no responsibility for any
errors that may appear in this document. This document is believed to be complete and
accurate at the time of publication. In no event shall Thermo Fisher Scientific be liable for
incidental or consequential damages in connection with or arising from the use of this
document.
The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice.
All rights reserved, including those for photomechanical reproduction and storage on
electronic media. No part of this publication may be copied or distributed, transmitted,
transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted into any human or computer language,
in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, magnetic, manual, or otherwise, or
disclosed to third parties without the express written permission of Thermo Fisher Scientific
Inc.
Trademarks
Windows and Windows Vista are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corp.
All other trademarks are property of Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. and its subsidiaries.

Universal Chromatography Interfaces
UCI-50 and UCI-100
Page 2Operating Instructions
1.2 Safety Information
The CE Mark label on the bottom of the UCI indicates that the module is compliant with
the related standards.
1.2.1 Symbols on the Module and in the Manual
The table shows the symbols used on the instrument:
Symbol Description
Refer to the Operating Instructions to prevent risk of harm to the operator and to
protect the module against damage.
Référez-vous à ce manuel pour éviter tout risque de blessure à l'opérateur et/ou
protéger le module contre tout dommage.
Label according to the "Measures for Administration of the Pollution Control of
Electronic Information Products" (China RoHS) guideline
Étiquette "Measures for Administration of the Pollution Control of Electronic
Information Products" (China RoHS)
WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) label—For more
information, see the WEEE Information section in the "Installation and
Qualification Documents for Chromatography Instruments" binder. Étiquette
WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) —Pour plus d'informations,
référez-vous au chapitre WEEE Information dans le classeur "Installation and
Qualification Documents for Chromatography Instruments".
At various points throughout the manual, messages of particular importance are indicated
by certain symbols:
Tip: Indicates general information, as well as information intended to
optimize the performance of the instrument.
Important: Indicates that failure to take note of the accompanying information
could cause wrong results or may result in damage to the module.
Important: Indique que ne pas tenir compte de l'information jointe peut conduire
à de faux résultat ou endommager l'instrument.

Universal Chromatography Interfaces
UCI-50 and UCI-100
Operating Instructions Page 3
1.2.2 General Safety Precautions
Before initial operation of the UCI, make sure that you are familiar with the contents of
this manual.
•Replace faulty power cords and communication cables.
•Use original Dionex spare parts only. Substituting non-Dionex parts or using non-Dionex
accessories may impair the performance of the UCI.
•Do not use the UCI in ways other than those described in these operating instructions.
1.2.3 Consignes Générales de Sécurité
Avant de commencer à utiliser l'instrument, assurez-vous que vous vous êtes familiarisés
avec le contenu de ce manuel. Observez les étiquettes d'avertissement sur l'appareil et
référez-vous aux sections correspondantes dans ce mode d'emploi.
1.3 Intended Use
The UCI is designed to be an interface between the Chromeleon Chromatography
Management System and the modules of a chromatographic system.
Please note that the UCI may be operated only by using Dionex accessories and spare parts
(→page 47) and within its technical specifications (→page 45).
If there is any question regarding appropriate usage, contact Thermo Fisher Scientific before
proceeding.
Thermo Fisher Scientific cannot be held liable for any damage, material or otherwise,
resulting from inappropriate or improper use of the instrument.
1.4 Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Note
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital
device, pursuant to part 15 of the U.S. 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 expense.

Universal Chromatography Interfaces
UCI-50 and UCI-100
Page 4Operating Instructions

Universal Chromatography Interfaces
UCI-50 and UCI-100
Operating Instructions Page 5
2 Overview
2.1 Unit Description
In chromatographic systems, the most different interface types are required for data
acquisition and device control. The UCI provides these different interfaces and makes
them available to the chromatography server. In this way, virtually any chromatography
device can be used with Chromeleon.
•Chromatographic detectors convert signals, for example, absorption or conductivity, into
electric voltage. However, as a computer can process only digital information, electric
voltage must be converted into digital data. If the detector itself is not capable of
performing this conversion, an analog/digital converter is required.
The autoranging A/D with 25-bit dynamic resolution of the UCI provides accurate,
reliable measurement of large and small peaks in the same chromatographic run.
•The fast data collection rate (100 Hz) and high channel stability ensure faithful
representation of narrow peaks, such as those typical with gas chromatography (GC) and
capillary electrophoresis.
•The front panel LEDs visualize the detector signal levels that are currently applied to the
analog inputs (voltage levels), the TTL and relay states, and the activity of the computer
communication ports.
•Four independent RS-232 interfaces allow simultaneous control of up to four
chromatography modules.
•The (16-bit) BCD inputs of the UCI allow BCD-enabled autosamplers to communicate to
Chromeleon the position of the vial from which the injection was performed.
•Eight potential-free relay outputs and eight TTL inputs support communication with all
kinds of chromatography devices.
•Data transmission between the UCI and Chromeleon is by using either the integrated
USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface or the LAN interface (Ethernet).
•Self-test and automatic online calibration make adjustments and maintenance
unnecessary.
2.2 UCI Configurations
The UCI is available in the following configurations:
UCI Description Part No.
UCI-100 Universal Chromatography Interface, 8 channels 5911.0010
UCI-50 Universal Chromatography Interface, 2 channels 5911.0005

Universal Chromatography Interfaces
UCI-50 and UCI-100
Page 6Operating Instructions
2.3 Front Panel Elements
Fig. 1: Front panel view (here UCI-100)
No. LED Description
1 USB The LED flashes if data is transmitted over the USB connection.
2 LAN The LED is on if a LAN connection is established ('good link').
3 Power The LED is on if the UCI is connected to the power supply by using
the power supply unit.
4 RS232 Ports The 'Transmit' LED of an RS-232 port is on (red) if data is sent
through this port.
The 'Receive' LED of an RS-232 port is on (green) if data is received
through this port.
5 Analog Inputs (Volt) The LEDs indicate the detector signal (voltage level) that is currently
applied to the analog input. Indication is in volt according to the
logarithmic scale on the right.
6 Digital I/O The 'Input' LED is on (green) if the related signal line is connected to
digital ground.
The 'Output' LED is on (red) if the related potential-free relay contact
is closed.
1
2
3
4
5
6

Universal Chromatography Interfaces
UCI-50 and UCI-100
Operating Instructions Page 7
2.4 Rear Panel
Fig. 2: Rear panel connectors
No. Description
1 Analog connectors (Analog Inputs)
The UCI-100 has eight analog inputs; the UCI-50 provides analog inputs on Ch.1
and Ch. 2.
In addition to the analog input, each analog connector provides a digital input
and a digital output (→page 8).
2 Digital Inputs connector
The digital inputs are also distributed among the analog connectors (→page 8).
3 LAN port (Ethernet)
4 USB port (Universal Serial Bus)
5 RS-232 ports (4 ports)
6 BCD input connector (16 BCD inputs)
7 Power socket
1 2 3 4
5 76

Universal Chromatography Interfaces
UCI-50 and UCI-100
Page 8Operating Instructions
2.4.1 Analog Connectors
In addition to the analog input, each analog connector (→Fig. 2; no. 1) provides a digital
input (→section 2.4.2) and a digital output (→section 2.4.3). For information and tips
about the pin assignment, see page 49.
The UCI-100 has eight analog inputs; the UCI-50 provides analog inputs on Ch.1 and Ch. 2.
2.4.2 Digital Inputs
The digital inputs are distributed among the analog connectors (→Fig. 2; no. 1), but are
also grouped in one separate connector (→Fig. 2; no. 2).
The digital inputs allow the time-resolved acquisition of binary events. In this way, they
can be used to inform Chromeleon about external events, such as the injection of a sample.
TTL signal levels are processed.
For information and tips about the pin assignment, see page 50.
2.4.3 Digital Outputs
The digital inputs are distributed among the analog connectors (→page Fig. 2, no. 1). The
relay outputs allow potential-free switching of external signals, and thus they can be used
transmit control signals to other devices. As these outputs are potential-free relay contacts,
they do not depend on specific signal levels. However, the maximum capacity of the
contacts has to be considered (→Technical Information, page 45).
2.4.4 USB and LAN Ports
Data transmission between the UCI and Chromeleon is by using the integrated USB
interface or LAN interface and the appropriate connection cable from the accessories kit
(→page 47). To ensure trouble-free operation, use only the cables described in section 7
(→page 47).
For information about how to connect the UCI to the Chromeleon server OC by using a
USB connection, see page 13. For information about using a LAN connection, see page 15.

Universal Chromatography Interfaces
UCI-50 and UCI-100
Operating Instructions Page 9
2.4.5 RS-232 Ports
The four RS-232 ports allow simultaneous control of up to four modules of a
chromatography timebase. For information about the pin assignment, see page 51.
Tip: The RS-232 ports do not support control of Gilson instruments that are
equipped with an GSIOC/RS-232 adapter, model 605. Connect these
instruments to the multi-serial (8-fold) PCI interface board (Equinox 8-
RS2332 Multi-COM board, part no. 5906.2095) of the computer.
2.4.6 BCD Inputs
The BCD inputs of the UCI allow autosamplers that can be controlled via binary code to
communicate to Chromeleon the position of the vial from which the injection was
performed. The BCD inputs are 16 digital inputs that can process TTL signals.
Communication is via an appropriate flat-ribbon cable. For information and tips about the pin
assignment, see page 52.
2.4.7 Power Receptacle
To connect the UCI to the main power supply, use the primary clocked power unit ('wide
range') and an appropriate power cord. No adjustment is required to adapt the line voltage
to local voltage requirements.

Universal Chromatography Interfaces
UCI-50 and UCI-100
Page 10 Operating Instructions
2.5 Operation with Chromeleon
The UCI is controlled by Chromeleon. All software details in this manual refer to
Chromeleon 6.80. For information about how to set up the UCI in Chromeleon, see
section 3.3.5 (→page 27).
If you want to operate the UCI with Chromeleon 7, refer to the following documents for
information about how to perform the related processes in Chromeleon 7 (all documents are
included in the Chromeleon 7 shipment):
•Chromeleon 7 Help—provides extensive information and comprehensive reference
material for all aspects of the software.
•Quick Start Guide—describes the main elements of the user interface and guides you
step-by-step through the most important workflows.
•Reference Card—provides a concise overview of the most important workflows.
•Installation Guide—provides basic information about module installation and
configuration. For specific information about a certain module, refer to the Chromeleon 7
Help.
Please also note that Chromeleon 7 terminology is different from the terminology used in
Chromeleon 6.80. For details, refer to the 'Glossary - Chromeleon 7,' which is available in the
Documents folder of your Chromeleon 7 installation.

Universal Chromatography Interfaces
UCI-50 and UCI-100
Operating Instructions Page 11
3 Installation
3.1 Facility Requirements
•Make sure that the installation site meets the power and environmental specifications
listed in the Technical Information section (→page 45).
•Install the UCI in the laboratory on a stable and level surface that is free of vibrations.
•Make sure that the surface is resistant to solvents.
•Avoid locations with extreme changes in temperature.
•Avoid direct sunlight and drafts.
•Do not expose the UCI to any corrosive, alkaline, or water vapors.
•Allow sufficient clearance behind and to the sides of the UCI for power connections and
ventilation.
3.2 Unpacking
All electrical and mechanical components of the UCI are carefully tested before the
instrument is shipped from the factory. After unpacking, inspect the UCI for any signs of
mechanical damage that may have occurred during transit.
Tips: Immediately report any shipping damage to both, the incoming carrier and
Thermo Fisher Scientific. Shipping insurance will compensate for the damage
only if reported immediately.
Keep the original shipping container and packing material. They will provide
excellent protection for the UCI in case of future transit. Shipping the unit in
any other packaging automatically voids the product warranty.
1. Place the shipping container on the floor and remove any accessories.
2. Grasp the module by the sides. Slowly and carefully, pull the module out of the
shipping container and place it on a stable surface.
Important: To prevent the UCI from falling, grasp the UCI by the sides, and
then lift the UCI together with the foam spacers out of the shipping
container. Do not lift the UCI by the foam spacers.
Important: Afin d'empêcher l'instrument de tomber, saisissez-la par les côtés.
Ne soulevez l'instrument à l’aide du matériau d'emballage ou par la
porte du panneau avant.

Universal Chromatography Interfaces
UCI-50 and UCI-100
Page 12 Operating Instructions
3. Remove the foam spacers, and then remove the polythene packaging.
4. Before connecting the UCI to the power source, wait approximately four hours to
allow the instrument to come to room temperature and to allow any condensation that
might have occurred during shipping to evaporate. After four hours, check the UCI; if
condensation still exists, allow the UCI to continue to warm up (without connecting it
to the power source) until the condensation is completely gone.
3.3 Connecting and Setting Up the UCI in Chromeleon
3.3.1 Connecting the UCI to the Chromeleon Server PC
The UCI is controlled by the Chromeleon Chromatography Management System.
Thermo Fisher Scientific recommends connecting the UCI to the Chromeleon server PC by
using a USB connection (→page 13). If a USB connection cannot be used (for example,
Windows®NT 4.0 does not support USB), establish a network connection (LAN) for the
communication between the UCI and the data system (→page 15). However, in this case,
observe the recommendations for network operation (→page 26).
After connecting the UCI to the Chromeleon server PC, install and configure the UCI in
Chromeleon (→page 27).
3.3.2 Connecting the UCI to External Devices
Two signal cables are included in the UCI shipment. Each cable can be used to send one
analog signal and one digital signal to the UCI and also to connect one relay contact to an
external device. To do so, plug the 6-pin connector of the signal cable into one of the
analog inputs ports on the rear panel.
Observe the wire labels when connecting the wires to the desired components. To avoid
errors in measuring, connect the ground wire to the corresponding detector connector.
Additional signal cables are available on request:
Signal cable Part No.
Mini-DIN, 6-pin, cable length: 5 m 6000.1004 (two cables are included in the UCI shipment)
Mini-DIN, 6-pin, cable length: 10 m 6911.0005
As a result of the cable length, the signal quality may be slightly affected when a 10 m
signal cable is used.

Universal Chromatography Interfaces
UCI-50 and UCI-100
Operating Instructions Page 13
Use the cable labeling set from in the accessories kit to label the signal cables as required.
To connect devices (for example, a pump) to the RS-232 ports, use common 9-pin
interface cables.
Tip: If the device to be connected is data terminal equipment (DTE), for example, a
P580 pump, a null-modem cable is required.
When using the Digital Input and BCD Input connections, refer to pages 50 and 52 for
information and tips about the pin assignments.
3.3.3 USB Installation
Tip: Verify that Chromeleon is installed on the computer before you connect the
UCI to the USB port on the Chromeleon computer. Only then, the USB driver
for the UCI is loaded automatically and the Windows®operating system can
detect the UCI when the UCI is powered up.
Use the USB cable from the UCI accessories kit (→page 47) to connect the USB port on
the rear of UCI to the USB port on the Chromeleon server PC.
Keep in mind that the USB standard limits the USB cable length to 5 meters. Each USB
device can be separated from the PC or next USB hub by no more than 5 meters. A special
USB extension cable (part no. 6000.1005) is available if a longer connection is required. Up
to five extension cables may be connected in series. However, for system reasons, the overall
connection length must not exceed 30 m.
1. Turn on the computer power, if it is not already on.
2. Under Windows Vista® (Windows®XP, Windows® 7, or Windows® Server 2008), log
on as a
•Local administrator if the computer is a local computer.
•User with local computer administrator privileges if the computer is a network
computer.
3. Open the Chromeleon Server Monitor program by double-clicking the Chromeleon
Server Monitor icon on the Windows taskbar.
If the Server Monitor icon is not on the taskbar, click Start on the taskbar, point to
Programs (or All Programs, depending on the operating system), point to Chromeleon,
and then click Server Monitor.
4. Click Start to start the server.

Universal Chromatography Interfaces
UCI-50 and UCI-100
Page 14 Operating Instructions
5. Click Close to close the Server Monitor window. The Server Monitor icon
appears on the taskbar.
(Clicking the Quit Monitor button quits (exits) the Server Monitor program, but does
not stop the server. To stop the server, click Stop.)
6. Use the power unit and power cord shipped with the UCI to connect the instrument to
a grounded power source.
7. Windows Vista, Windows 7, and Windows Server 2008
will automatically detect the new UCI and perform the USB installation.
If Windows fails to detect the UCI and launches a wizard instead, this indicates that you
connected the UCI to the computer and turned on the power for the first time before you
installed Chromeleon. To resolve the problem:
a) Click Cancel to exit the wizard.
b) Disconnect the UCI from the power source.
c) Install Chromeleon.
d) Reconnect the UCI to the power source. Windows will now detect the UCI and install
the USB software for the UCI automatically.
Windows XP
will automatically detect the new UCI and launch the Found New Hardware Wizard,
which guides you through the USB installation. Select the following options:
a) If asked whether Windows can connect to Windows Update to search for software,
select No, not this time.
b) Accept the default option (Install the software automatically) and click Next>.
c) Click Finish when the wizard reports that the software for the UCI has been
installed.
If Windows fails to detect the UCI and a message box asks for a USB configuration file
(cmwdmusb.inf), this indicates that you connected the UCI to the computer and turned on
the power for the first time before you installed Chromeleon. To resolve the problem:
a) Click Cancel in the Windows message box.
b) Disconnect the UCI from the power source.
c) Install Chromeleon.
d) Reconnect the UCI to the power source. Windows will now automatically detect the
UCI and launch the Found New Hardware Wizard.
8. Set up the UCI in Chromeleon (→page 27).