Empower Tip: Review Window and the Processing Method

In this final tip in the Deriving Channels in Empower series, we are going to learn how to use a derived channel function called Switch To.

Many methods call for collecting data at two different wavelengths with a UV detector or perhaps using two different detectors in series such as UV and fluorescence. Depending on the compounds you are analyzing, some may respond better with one detector versus another. In these cases, we collect and must process two channels of data. Wouldn’t it be nice to combine the two chromatograms into one so that you only process one channel? You can and it’s easy.

Let me show you how it is done.

We begin by bringing a Sample Set into Review, open and apply the method set. We see that peaks 1 & 2 respond well at 212nm, whereas peaks 3 & 4 have a better response at 224nm.

Go to the Method Set, Derive a Channel and on the First (Only) Tab select the first channel from the Channel drop down list.

On the Second Channel tab select Switch To from the Operator drop down list.

Select the Second Channel from the Channel drop down list.

Enter the Switch at Time in minutes. Note the equation Empower creates.

Click OK, enter a name for the Derived Channel and be sure to select the Processing Method in the table.

Return to the Main window and apply the Method Set.

The new chromatogram displays the first channel starting at 0 and switches to the second channel at 0.9 minutes. Now we can process the one channel in which we have optimized the response of all components.

It’s that easy!