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CAMAG® UV Cabinet 4

CAMAG®
UV Cabinet 4

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In a nutshell

Safe UV Detection for Accurate TLC Analysis

The CAMAG UV Cabinet 4 is an essential tool for TLC analysis, providing a safe, enclosed space for viewing plates under UV light. It protects users from harmful UV radiation while ensuring optimal conditions for detecting fluorescent or UV-absorbing compounds.

With dual wavelengths of 254 nm and 366 nm, it allows flexible analysis of various substances. The 254 nm wavelength is ideal for UV-absorbing compounds, while 366 nm is suited for detecting fluorescent materials.

High-intensity UV tubes provide even illumination across the plate, ensuring clear visibility of faint spots and improving qualitative analysis.

Widely applicable in pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, and environmental research, the CAMAG UV Cabinet 4 is perfect for detecting impurities, identifying active ingredients, and maintaining product quality.

Combining safety, efficiency, and precision, the UV Cabinet 4 is the ideal choice for accurate compound detection and analysis in TLC applications.

  • Safe UV Exposure
  • Dual Wavelength Flexibility
  • Reliable and Even Illumination
  • User-Friendly Design

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CAMAG® UV Lamp 4

CAMAG®
UV Lamp 4

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In a nutshell

Dual Wavelength UV Light

The CAMAG UV Lamp 4 is an indispensable tool for TLC analysis, designed with dual wavelength functionality (254 nm and 366 nm) and high-intensity UV illumination. Its high-quality UV tubes ensure even faint fluorescence or UV absorption is clearly visible, enhancing the reliability of qualitative analysis.

Ideal for detecting impurities, identifying active ingredients, and analyzing complex mixtures, the CAMAG UV Lamp is widely used in pharmaceutical, food, cosmetic, and environmental laboratories. With its ergonomic design and consistent performance, it ensures accurate and efficient chromatographic analysis, making it an essential choice for routine TLC work.

  • Dual Wavelength Functionality
  • Reliable and Accurate Detection
  • User-Friendly Design
  • Versatile Application, also beyond TLC

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CAMAG® HPTLC PRO Module MS-INTERFACE

HPTLC PRO
Module MS-INTERFACE

CAMAG® HPTLC PRO
Module Application

CAMAG HPTLC_PRO

In a nutshell

Seamless Integration with MS for Precise Analyte Identification

[ms-interface-large]

The HPTLC PRO Module MS-INTERFACE, set to launch in 2025, will enable fully automated direct elution of bands from the plate.

Any position on the plate can be selected through the visionCATS software for automatic elution via the integrated elution pump. The eluate can then be transferred to a mass spectrometer or collected for further offline analysis.

  • Part of the fully automated sample analysis and evaluation by HPTLC PRO
  • Automated positioning of the elution head, also based on previous evaluation
  • Either connected to an MS or fraction collector
  • Optimal cleaning procedure between elutions
  • HPTLC glass plates (20 x 10 cm)
  • Software-controlled by visionCATS
01

Stand-alone operation

With HPTLC PRO, users have the choice to either operate a module as stand-alone or together with other modules in a SYSTEM MODE.

02

SYSTEM 
MODE

If two or more modules are connected to form a system, a conveyor moves the HPTLC plate from one Module to the other, eliminating manual intervention between individual process steps.


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CAMAG® TLC-MS Interface 2

CAMAG®
TLC-MS Interface 2

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In a nutshell

Substance identification and confirmation

The TLC-MS Interface 2 enables rapid, contamination-free elution of TLC/HPTLC zones with direct transfer to any mass spectrometer. Its plug-and-play design integrates seamlessly with any LC-MS system, providing substance identification in under a minute via mass spectrum, or sum formula determination for unknown substances.

Zones are eluted using methanol or compatible solvents, with round and oval elution heads for circular and band-shaped zones, respectively. The eluate can be directly transferred for analysis or collected for further investigation with techniques like NMR and FTIR.

Key features include a modified elution head, an easily replaceable filter, and compressed air cleaning to prevent blockages and extend system life. The integrated crosshair laser and positioning tools ensure precise, reproducible plate alignment, with optional support from TLC Visualizer 3 or TLC Scanner 4.

  • Rapid and contamination-free elution of selected
  • Direct transfer to any mass spectrometer
  • Plug & play installation
  • Substance confirmation within a minute
  • Any plate format up to 20 x 20 cm

Application example

Characterization of separated compounds by Mass Spectrometry (Steviol glycosides in Stevia formulations*)
  • A.

    Chromatogram for localizing the zones (derivatized with ß-naphtol reagent)
  • B.

    HPTLC plate after elution of zones with the TLC-MS Interface 2
  • C.

    HPTLC-ESI-MS spectra of Rebaudioside A, m/z 989.6 [M+Na]+

* Morlock et al., Journal of Chromatography A, 1350 (2014) 102–111

TLC-MS Interface2 Stevia

Technical specifications

  • General data

    • Plate types
      TLC/HPTLC glass plates and aluminium foils of sizes up to 20 x 20 cm and layer thickness up to 300 μm
    • Standard flow rate
      50–300 μL/min
    • Downforce
      max. 400 N
    • Gas supply pressure
      4–6 bar compressed air or N2
  • Electrical data

    • Laser type
      5 mW, laser class 1
    • Electrical power
      Two batteries 1.5 V, AA/LR6 size
    • Battery duration
      Up to 100 hours
    • Chemical Data
    • Elution head capillaries
      Stainless steel passivated and rinsed with reagent-grade methanol
    • Frit
      2 μm stainless steel
    • Elution head
      Stainless steel
  • Mechanical data

    • Dimensions (W x D x H):
      275 x 425 x 275 mm
    • Weight
      14.5 kg

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CAMAG® HPTLC PRO Module PLATE STORAGE

HPTLC PRO
Module PLATE STORAGE

CAMAG® HPTLC PRO
Module Application

CAMAG HPTLC_PRO
In a nutshell

Efficient plate management for sequential analyses

[plates-large]

The HPTLC PRO Module PLATE STORAGE is the basis of a fully integrated and automated HPTLC workflow, making your laboratory processes more efficient and dependable than ever.

5

HPTLC glass plates

Designed for a streamlined workflow, this advanced Module ensures that plates are carefully managed under controlled conditions, preserving their integrity for subsequent analysis or documentation.

With the ability to handle multiple plates in sequence, the Module PLATE STORAGE optimizes efficiency while safeguarding against external influences that could compromise the quality of your results. Whether you’re working with complex analyses or routine procedures, this module guarantees that your plates are stored with precision, ensuring consistency and reliability across all stages of the HPTLC process.

  • Part of the fully automated HPTLC PRO SYSTEM
  • Automated feeding of up to five HPTLC plates into the system
  • Two stackers hold up to five clean and five processed HPTLC plates, with an active fume extraction system
  • HPTLC glass plates (20 x 10 cm)
  • Software-controlled by visionCATS
HOW IT WORKS

SMOOTH & PRECISE OPERATION


  • 01

    Holding up to five HPTLC glass plates, the Module PLATE STORAGE feeds the HPTLC PRO SYSTEM with clean plates and enables running a sequence of analyses autonomously overnight.

  • 02

    After or during analysis, the plates are transported back to the Module PLATE STORAGE.

  • 03

    The built-in conveyor transports clean plates from the Module PLATE STORAGE to the Module APPLICATION.

  • 04

    To avoid cross contamination, the stacker for processed plates features a fume extraction system for the active suction of vapors.

KEY benefits

  • Enables the autonomous processing of up to five HPTLC plates in the HPTLC PRO SYSTEM
  • One-time plate loading prior to the analyses improves workflow and efficiency
  • Optimal process time through seamless plate loading and unloading
  • No cross contamination of plates due to storage in separated compartments

  • Possibility to run a sequence of analyses autonomously overnight

Technical specifications

  • Operating temperature

    15 – 30 ° C
  • Recommended working temperature

    20 – 25 ° C
  • Plate types

    HPTLC glass plates 20 × 10 cm
  • Operating voltage

    100 – 240 VAC; 50 / 60 Hz
  • Power consumption

    30 W
  • Dimensions (W × D × H)

    384 × 550 × 510 mm
  • Weight

    ~ 29 kg

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CAMAG® HPTLC Software visionCATS

HPTLC Software visionCATS

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In a nutshell

HPTLC analysis – made easy

visionCATS is built for simplicity and intuitive operation, streamlining the entire HPTLC workflow by controlling both HPTLC PRO Modules and HPTLC instruments while efficiently managing data.

With its user-friendly interface, visionCATS guides users smoothly through the entire chromatographic process, from sample setup to report generation. Starting is easy—select a default method, fill in the sample table, choose a developing solvent, and select a derivatization reagent. Detection parameters can be customized as needed, and visionCATS leads users through each step.

Creating custom methods is equally straightforward. Users can easily select the required steps, and the sample-oriented design enables the creation of virtual plates by combining tracks from different plates. This feature is especially useful for batch-to-batch comparisons and long-term stability testing.

Finding relevant samples is made faster with a robust search tool in the file explorer. Users can search by text, date, samples, methods, or analysis files, with extended preview options. Custom search filters can also be created, allowing for even more streamlined navigation and data retrieval.

  • Comparison Viewer
  • Image Enhancement Tools
  • Scanning Densitometry and Spectral Evaluation
  • Quantitative Analysis
  • HPTLC Method Library
  • Regulatory Compliance

Key Features

  • Comparison Viewer

    With visionCATS integration, the TLC Visualizer 3 allows extraction and export of selected sample data from acquired images for easy comparison. References and samples from the same or different plates and detection modes can be displayed side by side, ensuring full traceability of all data for regulatory compliance.

  • Image Enhancement Tools

    visionCATS supports low-noise, high dynamic range (HDR) imaging and allows to edit images acquired with the TLC Visualizer 3, offering a set of enhancement tools. Sophisticated algorithms guarantee the highest image quality for identification of even the faintest zones.

  • Scanning Densitometry and Spectral Evaluation

    Following their chromatographic separation substances on the plate can be measured by Scanning Densitometry using the TLC Scanner 4. Recording of UV/VIS spectra and their comparison with reference spectra allows identification and comparison with spectra from reference libraries.

  • Quantitative Analysis

    Five quantification functions, including linear and polynomial regression, are available for determining substance concentration after densitometric or image-based analysis. Multiple scans and up to five evaluations can be performed within a single analysis file.

  • HPTLC Method Library

    For seamless import of validated methods and images of standards and reference materials, visionCATS provides a free of charge HPTLC Method Library for licensed users.

  • Regulatory Compliance

    visionCATS HPTLC software ensures regulatory compliance by supporting GMP/GLP guidelines and 21 CFR Part 11 requirements. With audit trails, user access controls, and electronic signatures, it secures data integrity and traceability, making it ideal for regulated environments.

HOW IT WORKS

SMOOTH & PRECISE OPERATION


  • HPTLC Analysis-made easy

    HPTLC Analysis – Made Easy

    01

    HPTLC Analysis – Made Easy: Create your own method with a few mouse clicks.

  • Guided Analysis

    Guided Analysis

    02

    Guided Analysis: Select a method and visionCATS will guide you

  • Sample View

    Sample View

    03

    Sample View: All available data related to the sample are displayed

  • Data Preview

    Data Preview

    04

    Data Preview: Provides an overview of steps and samples of an analysis or method

  • Profile Comparison

    Profile Comparison

    05

    With visionCATS, it is possible to compare profiles of samples developed in different analyses.
     

Comparison & Enhancement Tools

DOCUMENTATION WITH
TLC VISUALIZER 3

Controlled by visionCATS, the TLC Visualizer 3 can generate low-noise, high-dynamic-range images (HDRI). These images can be separated into tracks representing single samples. Any sample that has ever been analyzed can be directly compared with any other sample using the Comparison Viewer. Samples can be rearranged and compared to reference substances or samples, independent of their plate origin. Also 3D profiles of images can be generated.

The comprehensive set of Image Enhancement Tools in the Data View exploits the TLC Visualizer’s full potential. Images are automatically captured based on an optimized control of the illumination and parameters specified in the HPTLC method. Sophisticated algorithms guarantee the highest image quality for identification of even the weakest zones. The Data View allows visual evaluation of a plate in different illumination modes and offers a broad range of helpful tools, e.g. the RF tool displays the RF value of zones on the digital image, or a rectangular and/or linear zoom function.


  • TLC Visualizer 3 visionCats Data view

    Data View:

    01

    Data View: All data gathered through the chromatographic process can be reviewed and processed

  • TLC Visualizer 3 visionCats Comparison Viewer

    Comparison Viewer

    02

    Comparison Viewer: Side by side view of tracks from the same or different plates and/or detection modes

  • spot-amp-off

    Image Enhancement

    03

    Spot Amp efficiently supports the localization of even the smallest fractions on the plate by increasing or decreasing the contrast of the zones.

Quantitative evaluation

Quantification with
TLC Scanner 4

visionCATS controls the TLC Scanner 4 and enables quantitative evaluation of the generated densitometric data. The spectral range of light from 190 to 900 nm is available for selecting single wavelengths for Scanning Densitometry. Detection can thus be fine-tuned to match the spectral properties of the analyte to its optimized specificity and sensitivity of the detection. For almost unlimited flexibility, several scanning steps, e.g. before and after derivatization, can be selected. Each scanning step may also include up to 31 individual multi-wavelength scans using different light sources (deuterium lamp, mercury lamp, tungsten lamp). The detection modes absorbance or fluorescence can be combined. The generated data can then be evaluated. Integration of peaks and assignment to separated substances is a matter of a few mouse clicks.
Quantification of substances can be performed via peak height or peak area. The best fitting calibration model with single-level calibration or multilevel calibration via linear, polynomial or Michaelis-Menten regression is selected. With visionCATS and the TLC Scanner 4 UV spectra can be measured as well. The selected peak positions, which are detected from a previous densitogram, are automatically scanned at the defined wavelengths. Spectra can be measured from 190 to 900 nm and displayed individually or overlaid in one diagram. Spectra recorded on different plates can be compared with the Comparison Viewer.

  • Substance assignment

    Peak Assignment

    01

    Peak Assignment: The separated compounds are assigned. For quantification, data from the multi-wavelength scan at the optimum wavelength for each compound is used.

  • Image profile in 3D view

    3D View and Peak Integration

    02

    3D View and Peak Integration: Densitograms are displayed in 3D, top or front view. Several peak integration and baseline correction settings can be selected.

  • Calibration curve

    Calibration Curve

    03

    Calibration Curve: For evaluation the best fitting calibration model is used. Quantitation can be done via peak height or area.

database

visionCATS
Method Library

For analysts using HPTLC for identification of herbal drugs or analysis of food samples, visionCATS offers breakthrough support with the visionCATS Method Library. As a licensed visionCATS user, you can download methods from the visionCATS Method Library free of charge and import them into your own visionCATS database.
Each method includes three files:
  • A method documented in a form (e.g. docx) which may serve as an SOP and which can be easily incorporated into any quality management system. This file contains a description of the System Suitability Test (SST) and acceptance criteria for compliant herbal drugs.
  • An instrument method ready to use in visionCATS. A new analysis with all method relevant information (reference substances, plate layout, stationary and mobile phase, etc.) can then be processed. Only the Vial ID of the sample to be analyzed needs to be entered.
  • A Comparison Viewer file with reference images against which each analyzed sample can be compared and evaluated, based on acceptance criteria specified in the method document. After comparing the data of the samples with the reference images individual reports can be generated by a mouse click.
The HPTLC Method Library contains methods included in the USP Dietary Supplement Compendium and those published by the International Association for the Advancement of HPTLC. Numerous methods of identification from the European Pharmacopoeia are added as well. Additional methods will be added continually.
Method-Library-1

Regulatory Compliance

secure, safe, and audit-ready

  • 21 CFR Part 11

    The option 21 CFR Part 11 supports customers to work in a controlled environment and to establish regulatory-compliant processes. As a part of 21 CFR Part 11 compliance, electronic signature processes are available. A set of log files (System log; Method log; Analysis log; Backup log) are available to fully meet 21 CFR Part 11 requirements.
  • Qualification

    For customers working in a cGMP/cGLP environment, CAMAG offers Installation Qualification (IQ) and Operation Qualification (OQ) services.
  • System Suitability Test (SST)

    System Suitability Tests are used on each plate to check and ensure that the analysis was performed appropriately to produce results that are within the acceptance criteria established during method development. Only data from plates qualified by the respective SST can be directly compared. The SST is the primary tool for evaluation of data during a transfer validation. visionCATS provides several tools for setting up a SST.
  • Data Security

    Data Security is achieved through access control, which is provided by a flexible, secure, and customizable User Management System and basic system settings. Users are defined with rights that determine the level of access they have. The User Management System is compatible with Active Directory. With the powerful user management, it is possible to reflect the customers’ individual safety regulations. Data are stored in a safe database to prevent accidental alteration/deletion.
  • Data Safety

    The visionCATS Backup Assistant helps users to store their data into a backup file. Automatic backup tasks can be defined with the Schedule Assistant. With the Restore Assistant users can easily restore their data from the backup file.

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CAMAG® DBS-MS 500 HCT

CAMAG®
DBS-MS 500 HCT

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In a nutshell

The fully automated DBS-MS 500 HCT

The fully automated DBS-MS 500 HCT from CAMAG contains state-of-the-art technology to extract target substances out of a DBS (Dried Blood Spot).

The DBS is directly eluted in the extraction chamber and the analytes are guided online to the analytical system of choice or the extract is collected into a vial or 96 well plate.

Sample processing is automated, including the application of an internal standard through a high-precision sprayer, detecting the sample’s hematocrit through an optical module, and a barcode assignment from the DBS card. In addition to the analytical results, a picture of each DBS card before and after extraction and the run parameters are reported to maintain full traceability and the highest quality.

The fully automated CAMAG DBS-MS extraction system makes DBS analysis remarkably easy and has strong advantages compared to both, the manual and semi-automated punching techniques. With the CAMAG DBS-MS 500 HCT extraction procedure, DBS analysis is an economical alternative to conventional blood sampling. It represents a time- and cost-saving technique to analyze pharmacological samples, and is less invasive for participants or animals.
  • High-throughput analysis of up to 500 DBS cards per run
  • Integrated optical card recognition and barcode reading module
  • Non-destructive hematocrit detection through an optical module
  • Automated internal standard application module
  • Unique extraction module with wash station to eliminate carry-over
  • Online coupling to the analytical system (MS or LC-MS)
  • Full control through Chronos software
laboratory analysis

Workflow

The CAMAG DBS-MS 500 HCT offers a solution for the laboratory analysis workflow. Through the integration of the internal standard via an automated sprayer prior to the extraction, potential extraction differences are compensated.
Dried Blood Spot Sampling

Robotics

01

Highly reliable robotics handle the DBS cards from 5 separate racks, each with a capacity of 100 cards. The gripper picks up cards and moves them to all of the subsequent processes in the corresponding modules and back into their original position after the extraction. All DBS cards in the standard format of 84.5 mm x 53 mm can be used, independent of the brand.

DBS_Optical-Card-Recognition

Optical card recognition

02

The spot number and position, checkbox status, and barcode information are determined by a camera module. The connection between the DBS and its barcode is ensured throughout the whole process. CAMAG has incorporated its know-how of more than a decade of optical HPTLC image analysis to build this precise and reliable camera module.
DBS hematocrit scanner

Hematocrit detection module

03

An optical hematocrit detection module scans the DBS’ surface at a specific wavelength, where the spectra of hemoglobin and the oxidation products overlap. By measuring the reflectance of the DBS, we get a signal proportional to the sample’s hematocrit independent of age (patented). An algorithm calculates and displays the sample hematocrit directly in the software. The detection is also independent of humidity, the presence of other proteins or external blood factors (list of drugs tested by CAMAG DBS laboratory).
DBS IS Application

Internal standard application

04

The extraction efficiency and quality are ensured via the application of an internal standard prior to the extraction. The internal standard solution is applied with a high-precision sprayer onto the DBS. CAMAG has been manufacturing high-precision application instruments for HPTLC for many years and has implemented this knowledge to build a highly reliable spraying module.
Dried Blood Spot Sampling

Extraction module

05

The extraction unit seals the DBS card and the extraction solvent is pressed horizontally through the DBS into a sample loop or trapping column. The extraction volume and the extraction solvent composition can be chosen depending on the application. The extract is guided online to the analytical system and is independent of the extraction solvent cycle.
DBS IS Application

Wash station

06

A designated wash station cleans all parts that are in contact with the DBS cards and additionally flushes the entire tubing to avoid any carry-over between samples. Carry-over is therefore not an issue, as independent user tests have confirmed.
DBS Master Control Software Chronos

Master control software Chronos

07

Chronos is a sophisticated master control software that manages your analytical system in addition to controlling the DBS-MS 500 HCT. Sample lists are programmed in Chronos, bringing sample processing, extraction, and analysis parameters together. Chronos is compatible with the majority of common MS software and allows data exchange between those programs.
master control software

Chronos

The DBS-MS 500 HCT is controlled by Chronos. Chronos additionally transfers information such as sample and barcode data directly into the MS software and triggers the analytical method.
  • Optimization for high throughput

    Chronos’ core feature is to allow an overlap of workflows. The software measures the time for each work step in real-time and adapts the sample schedule accordingly, even while an analysis is still ongoing. This enables the DBS-MS 500 HCT to prepare the next sample in time and therefore avoids delays due to idle time. As a result, Chronos decreases the overall sample processing time of the device and considerably raises the efficiency of the laboratory.
  • Robustness and repeatability

    The user can create methods with almost no limitations on parameter options. Sample lists can be quickly generated and adapted to individual needs for the standard user. Robustness and reproducibility are thus ensured through software-controlled automation of the complete analysis.
  • Safety

    Chronos not only controls your analytical system, but also reports a 2D barcode, the run parameters of your analytical system, and pictures of each DBS card. The 2D barcode automatically assigned to each DBS simplifies handling and avoids errors that might be caused by manual working steps. Chronos ensures traceability of every sample, thus supporting a good documentation practice.
  • Real-time monitoring of analytes

    The sample schedule is visualized in a chart which can be monitored in real-time (see image slider below).

    • A) Transport the DBS card
    • B) Optical card recognition
    • C) Application of internal standard
    • D) Extraction
    • E) Rinsing the extraction unit
    • F) Estimated LC-MS cycle time
  • Chronos Overlapped schedule

    01

    Overlapped schedule for 10 samples and system initialization

  • Chronos Visualization of process-steps

    02

    Visualization of process steps

  • Chronos Sample list editor

    03

    Sample list editor with smart auto-fill options for fast schedule creation

Technical specifications

  • Height

    660 mm
  • Width

    1260 mm
  • Depth

    800 mm
  • Mains voltage

    115 / 230 V AC
  • Frequency

    50 / 60 Hz
  • Power consumption

    Max. 130 W
  • Main fuse

    2 AT
  • Nitrogen connection

    5.5 – 8 bar
  • Ingress protection (IP)

    IP20
  • In-output connections

    2 x RJ45

    Power supply

    Gas supply

    Service connector

Need feasibility studies on dbs?
Leave a request and we will contact you and may evaluate whether DBS-LC-MS/MS is a potential solution for your analytical goal

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ARTICLES & PUBLICATIONS

Scientific Publications on DBS

See all publications on DBS


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