Please recommend a new HPLC system!

[zhi ju]

We want to buy a new HPLC system, and will select one between 1200 Agilent and 920-LC of Varian. We like to have your comments on these HPLC systems if you have used them.

[ScottHorn]

I haven't used either, but I've used similar systems from other manufacturers. The most important question is what do you intend to use the system for.

[Hfranz]

Is there a particular reason why you consider the 920-LC and 1200? Why do you exclude other systems from well established manufacturers such as Dionex, Waters, Jasco, or Shimadzu?

[skunked_once]

Other than initial cost, the major factor in my decision on choosing an HPLC system would be which vendor could provide the best support for instrument repair and maintenance. Most, if not all, of the major brands of instruments produced today are of good quality.

[zhi ju]

We will use the HPLC to analyze feed /food nutrients such as amino acids, vitamins and carotenoids. We selected the two HPLC due to low quotes and local supports. However, we are still open to other suitable system.

[Hfranz]

It looks like you would like to operate conventional columns, for instance 4.6 mm ID. I wonder if you consider to follow the trend to faster separations at higher operating pressures in the future. If yes, you should select a system that can operate your current columns and faster columns, too.
Also, an important part of operating an HPLC system is the software. It is convenient, does it provide diagnosis tools? Does it allow flexible and automated reporting? In addition, you might select a software platform which does support different vendor hardware, otherwise, you will are very limited in your instrument choice for the future.

[Hfranz]

Agilent recently acquired Varian. Varian's analytical LC systems might become obsolete soon. So if you want to choose between at least two systems, you might take an alternative manufacturer into account.