"Unable to lock. Cannot open" - PE TotalChrom 6.3

[AStav]

I'm having an error in opening results in the Reprocess Results function.

I am running the HPLC system (AS/Pump/Oven/RI detector, all Perkin Elmer 200 Series) on multiple samples, with data logged using Link 600 and 901 Units.

In opening the Reprocess Results function, I am getting a Status Report dialogue box stating "File - [File name]; Status - Unable to lock. Cannot open"

I am also getting a (maybe?) related error on completion of each run requiring an xps file save which has not been seen in previous results.

I can open the the .raw files in the Chromatograms functions, but need the qualitative .rst files for processing.

Any ideas as to what I have overlooked??

Many thanks in advance.

[jonp]

A bit of a long shot but I have seen problems when the the method files have spaces after the filename and before the .mth extension.

The xps filse save sounds like it's trying to print to an XPS file (a microsoft PDF-y file): what are the printer & plotter options set to in the sequence? They may be hidden.

[AStav]

Thanks for the reply jonp.

I have been liaising with a technician from PE over the weekend and they have helped sort out my problem. Instead of leaving people hanging, this is the solution if anyone else comes across the problem.

As jonp point out, it looks like the system is wanting to print, which it is. As there is no printer on the system, I am getting the .xps save option instead. Unless I react to the save request (cancel the save or give it a save name) it will automatically drop the data before going onto the next file in the sequence. To correct, there is the suppress options in the instrument set up and the nulling of the default printer option in Windows.

I'm a belt and braces man, so taken both options.

In XP (which I am using), install an alleged printer as a NULL printer by name. Set the NULL printer as the default printer.

In the Instrument Setup screen, click the suppress plot/report printing to prevent sending data to the printer.

This has worked for me, but as the current system is in operation, I can't check all the details. If anyone does have a similar problem, I can submit better details as required.

Alternatively, if anyone greater knowledge wishes to contribute, please do.

[jonp]

Glad you've sorted it.

If you want to add some staples to your belt and braces then you can also set the printer and plotter in the sequence to none.

[jakebarham]

Hi,

I am trying to set up a pdf creator so that the report that is generated in TotalChrom is created as a .pdf file during run time

I have set the PDF printer in the sequence and also set it as the default printer. The process is sent to the PDF printer but then immediately disappears and does not do anything. This shows that there is a connection between the software and the printer.

The PDF creator works if I print a file but does not work during instrument run time.

Has anyone had any experience with setting up a pdf printer in TotalChrom software?