Chromatography Forum

Hi,
We are looking to purchase a refurbished GC-FID to replace a HP 5890. We have narrowed down our options to an Agilent 7820A or an Agilent 6890. I have previous experience with the 6890s but none with the 7820s. What are peoples opinions on the 7820? Do they use the same consumable as the 6890s? We are a small lab that will currently be using the instrument only for ethanol testing, but I want the flexibility to add onto the instrument in the future if our testing needs change.

thank you for your input.

You need to be careful here. The 7820 is a 'throttled down' version of the 7890 just as the 6820 was a 'throttled down' version of the 6890. Throttled down means that not all detectors, inlets and pneumatic devices are available. If you just need a capillary inlet with a FID, the 7820 will suffice for your needs, but if you need a GC that will be more flexible ( and think of the future), then consider the 6890.

Gasman

Thank you for your response. This is exactly what I was looking for

Chuck

The thing I never liked about the 7820 was the lack of a front panel, which can be annoying when troubleshooting. Other than that, it uses less space than the 6890.

Have no experience with 7820 but plenty with 6850 versus 6890. Hands down I would Jith the 6890 over a stripped down unit like the 6850. Especially true if you think you will need valving of any sort in the future.

Best regards,

AICMM

What's wrong with your 5890? Most parts are still available. Looks like I am going to have to replace the Proportional Control Valve on mine, but $900 vs junking it is still a good value.