Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) announced the release of the Agilent 8697 Headspace Sampler -XL Tray with 120 vial capacity. Customers now have the choice of either 48 vial capacity, or an increased capacity of 120 vials through the new -XL Tray option. This new Agilent 8697 -XL Tray also includes the latest instrument intelligence features for increased uptime and operator ease-of-use compared to its predecessor, the 7697A Headspace Sampler.

“Labs that run headspace GC systems know that if they encounter problems during a sequence, and the vials are punctured, they may have to rerun or recollect samples. The 8697 and now the 8697 Headspace Sampler -XL Tray virtually eliminate that problem. The complete GC headspace system checks to ensure that the system and data quality are up to SOP standards, avoiding recollection of samples and reruns,” explained Mike Zhang, vice president and general manager of Agilent’s Gas Phase Separations Division.

The 8697 Headspace Sampler -XL Tray includes instrument intelligence that eliminates downtime and increases efficiency by self-monitoring operation and guiding operators through dozens of troubleshooting and maintenance procedures—step-by-step, on the GC touch screen. The 8697 Headspace Sampler -XL Tray performs automated system checks, including leak checks, early maintenance feedback (EMF), and self-diagnostics to ensure the system is ready to run. The system also checks QC samples to provide the highest data quality and that samples will not need to be rerun.

Adopting this new high-capacity sampler is quick and easy, requiring no method redevelopment or change in SOP from the earlier 7697A or 8697 Headspace Sampler models. The 8697 Headspace Sampler -XL Tray can also be run with alternate carrier gases due to the separation of vial pressurization and sample loop for added method flexibility.

“We are excited to add the 8697 Headspace Sampler -XL Tray to our growing portfolio of intelligent instruments. With full integration into the GC intelligence ecosystem, the 8697 Headspace Sampler -XL Tray communicates directly with the GC to optimize operation and ensure maximum uptime,” added Jim Gearing, associate vice president of marketing in Agilent’s Gas Phase Separations Division.