Recommendation on a "cheap" HPLC-system

[stmst]

First post and first question.
I got the task to find an used/refurbished HPLC for a small lab with a very tight budget.

Following specification are essential:
Detector: MWD, better PDA
Autosampler

I got two offers, one for a Merck LaChrome 7000 system and one for an Agilent 1100.

Merck:
HPLC Pump L 7100 quaternary
DAD Diodenarray Detektor L 7450
Autosampler L 7200
Degasser L 7812
column oven L 7360
LaChrom Interface D 7000
Merck Software


Agilent 1100
G1315B DAD or G1356B MWD
G1316A Colcom
G1311A quat pump
G1322A Degasser
G1313A ALS
Chemstation

I would prefer the 1100, cause I never had trouble in the past with it and I am not sure if the Merck system is well suited for small columns 2.1-3.0mm with 3-5um particles.

I dont have any experience with older systems from other manufacturers.
Are there any recommendation for others systems?

Thank you in advance

[HPLCaddict]

Concerning these two systems, I'd go for the 1100. The main reason being that it should be much easier to get spare parts for it. Both the 1100 as well as the LaChrom are out of official support by the respective manufacturers, but as the 1100 is MUCH more widespread, spare parts hopefully will be available for a long time from miscellaneous maintenance companies.
Concerning the usage of small i.d. columns, you definitely will not be happy with both systems in their standard configuration. They need to be optimized (smaller i.d. capillaries, probably micro flow-cells) to approach the possible efficiencies of modern 2.1 or 3 mm i.d. columns.
Be sure to check if the supplied software is working properly. If not and you'd have to purchase a license, this would have a serious impact on your budget.

[stmst]

Sorry for my late feedback, thank you fpr your opinion. I prefer the 1100 too, habe to discuss this...
For the software, thy must be included otherwise i look for another offer.

Whats about other manufacturer like Waters, Dionex, Perken-Elmer and so?

Thank you

[HippyLabRat]

After having used a LaChrom and Agilents, there's NO QUESTION you should go Agilent. You need to make sure the 1100 you're getting isn't a first run one, though. The Firmware is on a ROM that can't be flashed in the oldest ones.

[danw9]

Hi
I'm also looking for a cheap hplc system to complement our very old systems. I'm looking for something the diode array detector, autosampler, column oven capable of fitting 250 mm columns, quaternary pump. And maybe with a refractive index detector also.

Just looking for recommendations and advice
Thanks

[Alfred88]

Hi.
If you want to buy used equipment, you may try some sites such as Equip dot net.
If you buy used equipment, you are on your own: No tech support from seller or MFG. Imagine buying an airplane from WWI: who will supply the repair parts?

I prefer low cost but new equipment over used, outdated, non-supported/obsoleted equipment.
There are four major players in USA: Waters, Agilent, Shimadzu, Dionex. Pick one based on your $ and preference.
Best.
Alfred