OpenLab CDS

OpenLab CDS is a chromatography data system (CDS) from Agilent that combines productivity, usability, and data integrity in a single platform. Designed for analytical laboratories requiring the highest level of data integrity and regulatory compliance, it provides a unified user interface for controlling Agilent LC, GC, single quadrupole LC/MS, and GC/MS systems, as well as instruments from other vendors. This makes it an ideal solution for labs seeking to streamline training, reduce complexity, and maintain rigorous quality standards across their chromatography workflows.

OpenLab CDS is well-suited for a broad range of industries including pharmaceutical, biopharma, energy and chemicals, environmental, and food and beverage testing. Its scalable architecture supports everything from individual workstations to enterprise-wide client/server deployments, enabling labs of all sizes to centralize operations, improve instrument access, and enhance data security.

Key Features

• Multi-vendor instrument control: Provides the most comprehensive Agilent and non-Agilent instrument control available, supporting LC, GC, LC/MS, and GC/MS systems from multiple manufacturers in a single interface.
• Data integrity and compliance: Built-in technical controls help meet data integrity standards required by FDA 21 CFR Part 11, EU Annex 11, GAMP5, ISO/IEC 17025, and EPA 40 CFR Part 160, through system access controls, record protection, audit trail documentation, e-signatures, and end-to-end work attribution.
• Custom calculations and reporting: Automates calculations and reduces manual tasks to ensure quality and accuracy, with intuitive functionality for fast and flexible report generation.
• Enhanced data analysis: Speeds data review and interpretation using visualization and peak assessment tools, supporting both basic and complex analytical tasks.
• Application-specific software add-ons: Extends functionality with add-ons including Sample Scheduler, MatchCompare, MS Spectral Deconvolution, GPC/SEC Software, Lab Advisor Diagnostics, Analytical Studio Reviewer (ASR), ADFExport, MassHunter WalkUp, Advanced Sample Linking, Dissolution Workflow Manager, Oligo Analysis Accelerator, Online LC Monitoring, and RGA/NGA.
• Scalable architecture: Improves lab operations through centralization with a client/server configuration, enabling better access to instruments and data. Case studies demonstrate 40–50% productivity gains when transitioning from isolated workstations to client/server architecture.
• On-demand learning: Supports rapid onboarding of new staff with a wide variety of self-guided learning tools and tutorials covering the user interface, privileges, sample preparation, data processing, and more.
• Automated software migration tools: Preserves result sets, methods, and user and instrument information from legacy systems including ChemStation, ChemStation Edition, EZChrom Edition, and Galaxie CDS.
• Automated qualification tool: Performs software qualification and verification tasks to confirm the software is operating as intended.
• Flexible remote access: Enables secure sample processing, review, and approval from remote locations through virtualization, networking, and cloud solutions.

Supported Instruments

• Agilent LC, GC, LC/MS (single quadrupole), and GC/MS (single quadrupole)
• Agilent Supercritical Fluid Chromatography (SFC)
• Agilent MicroGC and Headspace systems
• PAL Autosampler Systems
• Agilent A/D Converter
• Non-Agilent LC, GC, and IC instruments

Analytical Techniques Supported

• Fraction Collection
• GPC/SEC
• 2D LC
• Mass spectrometry data acquisition, processing, and reporting

Workflow and Productivity Capabilities

• On-time and error-free sample submission
• A single data system supporting a broad range of analytical techniques
• Efficient data review and visualization tools
• Fast, flexible, and reliable reporting with automated calculations
• Secure storage for analytical reports and instrument data
• Cloud deployments and remote access solutions for managing instruments and processing data outside the lab
• Support for ASTM and other standardized methods, particularly for energy and chemical labs
• Automated sample routing and custom calculations to eliminate manual steps and reduce errors

Compliance and Data Integrity Controls

• Limiting system access to authorized users
• Protecting and securing records throughout their lifecycle
• Documenting audit trail reviews for full traceability
• Using electronic signatures to conform to regulatory requirements
• Ensuring end-to-end work attribution to minimize errors and inaccurate results

OpenLab CDS is delivered electronically and is available in English, Chinese, Japanese, and Brazilian Portuguese. It supports multiple deployment models including Workstation, Workstation Plus, Client/Server, and Virtualization, and integrates with OpenLab Server, OpenLab ECM XT, and OpenLab ECM for data management. The current software version is 2.8, which introduces new calibration features, enhanced technical controls for data integrity, and improved peak integration precision. Agilent also offers compliance consulting, instrument and software qualification services, and training to support implementation and ongoing regulatory adherence.