Agilent Technologies PlateLoc User Manual

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Appendix A: Integrating the PlateLoc into third-party systems
PlateLoc User Guide
GetFirmwareVersion Description
Commands the application to get the PlateLoc's firmware version
number.
Parameters
None
Returns
BSTR
Visual C++ Example
str = m_PlateLoc.GetFirmwareVersion();
Visual Basic Example
str = PlateLoc1.GetFirmwareVersion
GetCycleCount Description
Commands the application to get the number of seal cycles that have
been performed.
Parameters
Returns
LONG
Visual C++ Example
LONG cycle_count;
lres = m_PlateLoc.GetCycleCount(&cycle_count);
Visual Basic Example
DIM cycle_count as INTEGER
lres = PlateLoc1.GetCycleCount cycle_count
Name Type Range Description
cycle_count LONG * 0 Stores the number of
seal cycles after
returning from the call

Agilent Technologies PlateLoc Specifications

General

Power Requirements	100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz
Sealing Force	Adjustable
Seal Compatibility	Compatible with a wide range of seals including films and foils
Weight	25 kg (55 lbs)
Interface	RS-232
Heating Time	Not applicable
Cooling Time	Not applicable
Temperature Uniformity	Not applicable
Temperature Accuracy	Not applicable

Summary

Chapter 1: PlateLoc Introduction

Hardware overview

Provides an overview of the PlateLoc's front and rear hardware features and components.

Plate requirements

Outlines the material, design, and format requirements for plates used with the PlateLoc.

Lab automation system software

Describes software used to control the PlateLoc in Velocity11 and third-party lab automation systems.

PlateLoc workflows

Presents basic steps for operating the PlateLoc as a standalone device or within a lab automation system.

Safety information

Provides essential safety precautions, standards, and labels for operating the PlateLoc.

Chapter 2: Unpacking and Installation

Installation workflow

Meeting Lab requirements

Details essential lab space, electrical, and environmental requirements for installation.

Connecting the power source

Connecting and disconnecting the air source

Connecting and disconnecting the argon source (Gas-Purging PlateLocs only)

Connecting to the controlling computer (lab automation systems only)

Installing the PlateLoc ActiveX software (lab automation systems only)

Chapter 3: Getting Started

Loading and unloading a roll of seal

Creating and managing profiles (lab automation systems only)

Establishing communications with the PlateLoc (lab automation systems only)

Chapter 4: Sealing Plates

Loading an insert and a plate

Setting the sealing parameters

Explains how to configure seal time and temperature for optimal sealing results.

Starting the seal cycle

Describes the procedure to initiate the plate sealing process via the touch screen or software.

Stopping a seal cycle in progress

Chapter 5: Optimizing Seal Quality

Optimization test guidelines

Adjusting the sealing parameters

Details how to check seal quality and adjust parameters like temperature or duration.

Chapter 6: Routine Maintenance

Cleaning the hot plate

Provides instructions for cleaning the hot plate to remove residual material and maintain seal quality.

Chapter 7: Troubleshooting

Hardware problems

Lists common hardware issues, their causes, and suggested solutions for the PlateLoc.

Error messages

Details error messages displayed on the touch screen, their causes, and resolution steps.

Diagnostic tools

Explains how to use built-in tools like PlateLoc Diagnostics for diagnosing problems.

Reporting problems