It works as hard as you do.

Agilent 6890N Network GC

• Rugged and reliable for unsurpassed uptime
• Advanced EPC ensures precision and accuracy of results
• Retention Time Locking for consistent results
• Accomplish more with fast GC capabilites
6890N Network GC: It works as hard as you do.
We have one thing in mind:
hard work.
Laboratories worldwide are looking for a GC solution that delivers reliability, performance, and reproducible results. And nothing
produces these benefits like the Agilent 6890N Network GC. By integrating leading-edge technologies with an emphasis on
quality manufacturing processes, the 6890N will bring a work ethic to your laboratory that’s matched only by your own.

The tools you need to get things done

• Agilent 7683 automatic liquid sampler* Flexibility of columns to suit your needs***
• Agilent G1888 headspace sampler • Nonpolar (HP-1, DB-1MS, DB-5MS, DB-XLB, HP-1MS, HP-5,
• Agilent 7694E headspace sampler HP-5MS)
• Purge and trap • Midpolarity (HP-35, HP-35MS, DB-35, DB-35MS, DB-17,
• Gas and liquid sampling valves DB-17MS, HP-50+)
• Deans Switch for 2D GC • High-polarity PEG (HP-Wax, HP INNOWax, DB-Wax, HP-FFAP)
• Ambient air sampler and • PLOT (MoleSieve, PLOT Q, GS-GasPro, HP-PLOT Al2O3,
preconcentrator** HP-PLOT MoleSieve)
• Thermal desorber** • Application-specific columns (DB-VRX, DB-Dioxin, DB-ALCl
• Pyrolyzer** and ALC2)

Wide selection of inlets

• Split/splitless (S/SL) capillary
• Packed purged injection port
(PPIP)
• Cool on-column (COC)
• Cool on-column with solvent
vapor exit (COC-SVE)
• Programmable temperature
vaporizing (PTV)
• Volatiles interface (VI)
• Cooled injection system (CIS)**
• Temperature-programmable
Acccomplish more with networking abilities
pre-column**
• Lets you share business and scientific data easily
within a laboratory and across sites for fast and
informed decision making.
• Incorporates local area network (LAN) technology as
a standard feature, which makes it easy to link
communication and control of multiple analytical
* The 6890N network gas chromatograph is ready for attaching the
instruments. With networking, you can work smarter, Agilent 7683 series automatic liquid sampler.
faster, and more economically. ** Available through Agilent Channel Partners.
*** For a complete list of Agilent columns and supplies, visit our Shopping
Village on the World Wide Web at http://www.agilent.com/chem

2
 6890N Network GC: It works as hard as you do.
Easy operation and data handling
• Agilent ChemStation Plus family
See how the Agilent 6890N Network GC (including Agilent ChemStore C/S and
ChemAccess C/S) for data organization,
can go to work for you. storage and remote access
• Agilent Cerity Networked Data System
(NDS) for Chemical QA/QC

A variety of detectors
• Mass selective (Agilent 5973N Series MSD)
• Flame ionization (FID)
• Thermal conductivity (TCD)
• Micro-electron capture (micro-ECD)
• Flame photometric, single- or dual-
wavelength (FPD)
• Nitrogen-phosphorus (NPD)
• Atomic emission (AED)*
• Pulsed flame photometric (PFPD)*
• Photoionization (PID)*
• Electrolytic conductivity (ELCD)*
• Discharge ionization (DID)*
• Sulfur chemiluminescence (SCD)*
• Nitrogen chemiluminescence (NCD)*

* Available through Agilent Channel Partners.

3
6890N Network GC: It works as hard as you do.
An instrument that understands
an honest day’s work.
From operator interaction and sample input to separation, data Micro-Electron Capture Detector
acquisition, and analysis, the Agilent 6890N network GC system is
designed to be one of the most productive workers in your lab.
U.S. EPA CLP Range
100
90
80
70
Hidden Anode 60 Tetrachloro-m-xylene
50 Lindane
Heptachlor

Response (Hz/pg)
40
Dieldrin
30 Endrin
20 p, p’- DDT

10

1 10
Detection pg Sample (log scale)
Zone (0 15ml)

More Productive than Any Other ECD

Turbulent Mixing
The Agilent 6890N micro-electron capture detector gives you greater
HardStop
throughput, less rework, reduced susceptibility to contamination,
Capillary Column
and expanded detection limits compared with any other electron
capture detector. This detector offers the best sensitivity and linearity
Fused Silica Vent in the world. You do not have to concentrate extremely dilute samples and
you do not have to dilute concentrated samples to get within the sample
calibration range. Furthermore, this rugged, completely redesigned detector,
which is optimized for capillary chromatography, lets you
perform fast GC.

Increased Laboratory Efficiency

Clock-time programming allows you to set up
runs for unattended operation whenever you
want. The system can be ready to work when
you get to your laboratory. Pre-run and post-run
commands automatically prepare the system
for the next sample.

Decreased Calibration Time

You can manually enter existing calibration data
and make a run with just one standard peak.
The system can normalize the calibration table
for you, allowing you to cut
calibration time and avoid re-running
your calibration standards.

4
 6890N Network GC: It works as hard as you do.
Simultaneous Detection of Sulfur and Phosphorus
A dual-wavelength flame photometric detector can
detect, sensitively and selectively, both
sulfur and phosphorus—in just one run. You save
the time it would take for separate runs.

Efficient Data Handling

The Agilent ChemStation for the 6890N network GC system lets you
display, calibrate, and report data from up to four signals—without
having to synchronize separate runs and merge results. This is
particularly efficient when you need to set up and report complex analyses.

Agilent’s Cerity Networked Data System for Chemical QA/QC gives

you exactly what you need for your particular laboratory environment. Use-
specific applications model your everyday tasks, making every step more
efficient. Cerity NDS also connects you with your company’s intranet and
the Internet for pulling in what you need to work efficiently or sending out
results to your customers, fast.

Automatic Liquid Sampler

High Sample Throughput

The 6890N network GC system is already set up
100-vial for the Agilent 7683 automatic liquid sampler,
sample tray
enabling fast and easy installation.
8-sample turret for use without tray

Single or dual injectors, equipped with either an

8-sample turret or a 100-vial sample tray, allow
unattended operation. Using the 11-vial transfer
turret with the tray and the solvent saving mode,
you have enough solvent to run unattended
eight times longer than before.
11-vial transfer turret for use with tray

5
6890N Network GC: It works as hard as you do.
Split Mode
Flow Pressure
Proportional sensor sensor PS Septum purge
valve PVI FS regulator
Minimal Rework
The Agilent 6890N network GC system is the
Septum vent
Trap only GC system that automatically selects the
Gas source Capilliary inlet On/Off optimum pressure-control mode for split and
Valve V
splitless analyses. Forward-pressure control
Split vent
is best for splitless injections. Along with a large
Proportional inlet liner volume and pressure-pulse operation,
valve PV2 this mode reduces discrimination, sample
degradation, and sample loss caused by liner
To detector overload while maximizing sensitivity.

Splitless Mode For split injections, the system automatically

Proportional
Flow Pressure selects back-pressure control for linear split
sensor sensor PS Septum purge
valve PVI ratios over the entire usable split-ratio range and
FS regulator
over wide column flow and pressure ranges. This
reduces sample preparation and increases
Septum vent
Trap reproducibility and accuracy.
Gas source Capilliary inlet On/Off
Valve V
Automatic switching between forward-and
Split vent
back-pressure modes yields optimal results in
Proportional less time and with less effort.
Low flow rate valve PV2
High flow rate
To detector

Local Area Network

Instrument Control—from Anywhere
6890N
The 6890N network GC systems, along
with other Agilent analytical instruments, ent
Instrum
gilent
incorporate Ethernet technology as a Non-A LC
dress
standard feature, enabling extended IP Ad .104
10.1.1
laboratory connections. Using either
C, LC,
Agilent’s ChemStation Plus or Cerity n for G ible
Statio is
Networked Data System software, you Chem D, CE, UV-v .01
S 8
LC/M /D rev. A.0 0
A .1 0
have the advantage of instrument control N and ress 10.1
6890 ess IP Add
dr HPIB
and centralized data handling over IP Ad .101
10.1.1
virtually unlimited distances. The er
nvert
D Co 2
networked system also uses minimal PC 5900E A/ 10.1.1.10
3 dress
resources and provides easy integration of IP Ad

intranet and Internet solutions.

8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
a l Hub
ort to N Typic
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Casc er Site L
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Custo

6
 6890N Network GC: It works as hard as you do.
Results that meet regulations—
and your expectations.
The Agilent 6890N works as hard to meet regulatory requirements as it does to meet the needs of your lab. That’s why Agilent
designed into the GC ChemStation a variety of features to answer the strict regulatory, certification, and quality control
requirements of your industry. Agilent’s expert staff of engineers will work for you too— our installation qualification and
operational qualification/performance verification services can help ensure your lab is in complete compliance.

Good Laboratory Practice

A Record of All Events Assured Method Security

Both the Agilent Cerity Networked Data System and Agilent Your original method, including all GC parameters and
ChemStation Plus family ease the burden of meeting regulatory data files, can be stored in a single protected,
and quality requirements. Both software programs, for example, uneditable format for assured integrity. Furthermore,
record all system events during an analysis. This includes any your methods and data are protected by
anomalies or deviations from method setpoints. a keyboard lock and multilevel security.

System Performance Control

A system suitability table lets you easily
set range limits on critical parameters to
establish and verify system performance.

7
6890N Network GC: It works as hard as you do.
Method setup that’s fast,
results that stay true.
You want to keep your cost-per-analysis down— but not at the cost of unreliable results. That’s why Agilent designed the
6890N to do much of the work for you. It’s easy to operate, with minimal time required for training, prep and data handling.
You’ll save time by entering all GC parameters electronically. Once set, they remain precisely the same for accurate and
reproducible results you can count on, every time, with every operator, and with minimal rework.

Fourth-Generation
Pneumatics Control

Unsurpassed Reproducibility
Full electronic pneumatics control
(EPC) makes it fast and easy to Retention Time (min)
set all pressures and flows. Our Run Peak 1 Peak 2
fourth-generation EPC keeps these 1 8.377 8.632
setpoints constant from run to run, 2 8.377 8.632
3 8.377 8.633
providing excellent retention time
4 8.377 8.632
reproducibility. 5 8.376 8.632
6 8.374 8.630
7 8.375 8.631
8 8.375 8.631
Simplified Control 9 8.374 8.630
The 6890N keyboard simplifies parameter entry and system 10 8.374 8.630
11 8.375 8.631
control. The keyboard displays four parameters of your choice,
12 8.376 8.632
giving you instant access to system information— for fast, 13 8.376 8.632
effective diagnostics and troubleshooting. All parameters can be 14 8.376 8.632
stored and recalled at the touch of a button. 15 8.376 8.632
Average 8.376 8.632
Standard 0.001 0.001
Deviation

8
 6890N Network GC: It works as hard as you do.
Retention Time Locking with GC and GC/MSD ChemStation

Retention Time Repeatability on Different Configurations

of the Agilent 6890N GC with EPC
MSD Method Locked to FID Method
Inlet Detector Injection Dichlorvos Chlorpyrifos Mirex Mixture of 25 Pesticides
Technique Methyl
COC MSD On-column 5.862 16.607 29.836
PTV MSD Splitless 5.897 16.593 29.800
GC-FID
S/SL FID Splitless 5.797 16.587 29.856 26.60 psi
S/SL AED Splitless 5.829 16.600 29.839
S/SL AED Splitless 5.837 16.604 29.851
PTV Micro-ECD Split 5.798 16.576 29.876
PTV Micro-ECD Split 5.860 16.597 29.864
PTV Micro-ECD Cold splitless 5.862 16.589 29.867
GC-MSD, TIC
S/SL Dual FPD Splitless 5.814 16.596 Undetected 17.5 psi

S/SL NPD Splitless 5.814 16.596 Undetected 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 min

Statistical Comparison of Results
High-low 0.100 0.028 0.076 Different Detector, Different Location,
Average 5.837 16.595 29.849 Different Operator—Same Results
Standard deviation 0.033 0.009 0.024 Retention Time Locking (RTL) software is a powerful
% Relative standard deviation 0.560 0.054 0.080 productivity tool that lets you reproduce exactly the
same results on multiple Agilent GCs with EPC—
configuration to configuration, location to location,
operator to operator. This revolutionary technology
allows retention times to be reproduced between
Agilent GC systems within hundredths and even
thousandths of a minute. With RTL, you more easily
and accurately identify peaks, increase sample
throughput, reduce the risk of noncompliance,
enhance confidence in analytical results, and lower
operating costs.

Modularity to Meet Changing Needs

Modular design of system components lets
you quickly change or upgrade GC
configurations with ease.

9
6890N Network GC: It works as hard as you do.
Take the work out
of manual sample prep.
With enhanced technologies, the 6890N works harder than ever to increase your lab’s performance. Both injection and
headspace sampling are automated, which means less manual work and even more precise results. You’ll enjoy quicker
turnaround time, lower cost per analysis, and less waste.

Syringe
Needle

Baffled
Liner
Large-Volume Injection
Carrier Gas

Programmable
Temperarture
Vaporing Inlet

Vent

Sample
Analyze
Solvent

Column

Ambient Headspace Multiphase Small-Volume

Sampling Sampling Sampling No Sample Concentration
The system’s automatic liquid sampler offers large-
Sampling Flexibility volume injection, eliminating sample
The Agilent automatic liquid sampler lets you mimic manual concentration steps. Using the programmable
injection. At the same time, you get the convenience of temperature vaporizing inlet or cool on-column
automated injection. Other benefits include improved inlet, you can inject up to 50 µL in a single injection.
precision and accuracy (with the industry’s fastest injection If you are using a programmable temperature
speed) and the ability to sample individual layers in a vial for vaporizing inlet, you can inject up to 500 µL, with
automated micro-liquid/liquid extraction and ambient multiple injections. This gives you highly sensitive
headspace analysis. quantitation—especially useful for mass selective
detection and atomic emission detection.

10
 6890N Network GC: It works as hard as you do.
No Sample Preparation
Headspace sampling can eliminate sample preparation by
introducing volatile components automatically—from virtually any
matrix—directly into the GC. A low-volume, highly inert volatiles
interface is optimized for headspace-GC analysis, preventing
sample loss or degradation. Agilent headspace instrument control
is fully integrated into the Agilent GC ChemStation software.

Blood Alcohols by Headspace

30 m x 0.32 mm x 1.8 µm
DB-ALC1

GC Oven: 35° C isothermal

Inlet: Split/splitless at 150 C°
A two-hole ferrule (P/N 5062-3580
was used to connect both columns to
the same inlet
Column I: DB-ALC1 (P/N 123-9134)
30m x 0.32 mm x 1.8µm
2 Column II: DB-ALC2 (P/N 123-9234)
30m x 0.32 mm x 1.2µm
3
Headspace oven: 60°C
Vial equilibration time: 15 min
Sample: 5 µl of 0.08 g/dL standard mix
6.00 6.00 8.00 0.00 2.00 4.00 6.00 8.00
in 10 ml vial

Peak 1 = Acetaldehyde
4 Peak 2 = Methanol
Peak 3 = Ethanol
Peak 4 = Acetone
Peak 5 = 2-Propanol
Peak 6 = Acetonitrile
Peak 7 = Ethyl Acetate
Peak 8 = Methyl-Ethyl Ketone

6.00 6.00 8.00 0.00 2.00 4.00 6.00 8.00

Reduced Derivatization
A cool on-column inlet offers a gentle environment for thermally
labile compounds. This minimizes the need for derivatization and
improves the accuracy of sample characterization.

11
6890N Network GC: It works as hard as you do.
Waste no time,
results come in minutes.
The Agilent 6890N network GC system lets you
cut analysis time dramatically— without
sacrificing the quality of your results.

Columns for Fast Analysis

A line of HP 100-µm and 200-µm high-
speed capillary columns complements the
fast analysis capabilities of the Agilent
6890N network GC system. These narrow-
bore columns are available in a number of
configurations, including constant phase
ratio—a configuration useful for scaling
down from conventional larger column
diameters when you want to shorten GC
run times and improve efficiency. HP high-
speed capillary columns come in a variety
of popular phases and film thicknesses for
fast gas chromatography without loss of
resolution.

Styrene
Standard GC HP-INNOWax 60m x 0.32mm x 0.5µm

5 7.5 10 12.5 15 17.5 20 min

Fast GC HP-INNOWax 25m x 0.2mm x 0.313µm

0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 min

Real GC—Ten Times Faster

The Agilent 6890N network GC system provides everything you need for
fast GC. This includes fast automatic injection, split/splitless inlets,
0.1-mm capillary columns, high-speed detectors, fast data handling, and
method translation software. You get real chromatography, accurately
and consistently, two or five or even ten times faster than standard GC.
And you can switch back to standard GC with ease.

12
 6890N Network GC: It works as hard as you do.
Easy Translation to Fast GC
Free method translation software lets you transfer current
methods to faster methods in minutes. You can see the impact of
parameter changes on analysis speed—before you run a sample.
At the same time, the software identifies any potential method or
instrument constraints so that you know what will work before
investing significant time and money.

2D GC Made Easy
Setup and operation of 2D GC is made reliable and easy to use by
combining Micro-fluidic and EPC technologies. This unique
software tool minimizes operator effort by automatically
calculating restrictions and pressures. The reproducibility of
retention times of the 6890N GC results in improved accuracy and
reliability. 2D GC is available pre-configured by Agilent, as a
standard option, or as an accessory for existing 6890N GC
systems.

2D GC Using Micro-Fluidic Technology

Agilent’s patented Micro-fluidic technology greatly improves the
performance of 2D GC. Internal volumes are optimized to
maximize separation efficiency and eliminate peak tailing. Each
device is deactivated to produce superior results even for trace
analysis of chemically active compounds. A new fitting and
ferrule design simplifies column installation and eliminates
leakage even with repeated oven temperature programming to
final temperatures over 400 C.

13
6890N Network GC: It works as hard as you do.
Created for endurance—
now and for years to come.
The Agilent 6890N network GC system incorporates the lessons learned from 40 years of producing the world’s best-selling
and most reliable GCs. In fact, labs turn to Agilent because they know the instruments will perform accurately and
consistently over extended periods— and when they do replace or upgrade a system, they regularly return to Agilent.

You can be sure your Agilent instrument will prove to be a workhorse for your lab, too. Each 6890N network GC system ships
with a Declaration of Conformity that certifies it has passed stringent safety tests, ensuring the instrument will meet Agilent’s
performance specifications. We back it all up with our Agilent Value Promise that guarantees you’ll have at least 10 years use
from your 6890N (see back panel for details). Now that’s a hard-working promise.

Agilent Columns and Supplies—

The Perfect Fit
For greater confidence in your GC results,
you can optimize your total system with
quality Agilent columns and supplies—the
perfect fit for the Agilent 6890N network
GC system. A wide range of GC columns,
supplies, kits, and accessories is designed,
manufactured, and tested to rigorous
Agilent specifications, under a quality
system registered to ISO 9001. Why risk
compromising your analytical results with
anything less than genuine Agilent
consumables?

Backed by Agilent Support Special Service Bundles

You can also ensure the best performance Agilent offers special service bundles that are designed to meet the
from your 6890N by relying on a variety of needs of your laboratory. Essential services include:
Agilent-brand services. Whether you need • Telephone support to resolve hardware problems
assistance in hardware or software • At-your-site instrument service plus consumables used for repairs
installation, performance checks, or on- • Off-site instrument repair service
going technical support, Agilent can help • Annual preventative maintenance
maintain reliable operations over the life of
your instrument. Agilent customer service centers are located worldwide. With Agilent
support, you can reduce operational costs, increase laboratory
productivity, and lighten the load of regulatory compliance.

14
 6890N Network GC: It works as hard as you do.
See how Agilent training
can work for you.
Agilent has a series of convenient 6890 system GC Web-based training
modules. You can learn at your desk—with minimal disruption to work
schedules—or wherever you can connect to the Internet. e-Learning gives
you focused instruction in instrument theory, operation, routine
maintenance, as well as common problems and solutions.

You can view module descriptions, try a demo, register, and purchase
modules by visiting www.agilent.com/chem/elearning.

GC e-Learning On-Demand and Live Course Titles and Descriptions

Product Number Course Title Description

R1691A 6890 GC Split Inlet Mode Operation This module teaches you the basic theory and operation of the 6890 GC split/
splitless capillary inlet when operating in the split mode.

R1692A 6890 GC Splitless Inlet Mode Operation This module teaches you the basic theory and operation of the 6890 GC split/
splitless capillary inlet when operating in the splitless mode.

R1693A 6890 GC Purged Packed Inlet Operation This module teaches you the basic theory and operation of the 6890 GC
purged packed inlet.

R1694A Capillary Columns Theory and Operation This self-paced e-Learning module teaches you the basic theory and
operation of capillary columns.

R1695A 6890 GC Keyboard Operation This self-paced e-Learning module teaches you the basic operation of the
6890 GC keyboard. It is designed to help you to understand all of the keys to
gain the maximum benefit from your GC.

R1696A 6890 GC FID Theory and Operation This module teaches you the basic theory and operation of the FID.

R1697A 6890 GC ECD Theory and Operation This module teaches you the basic theory and operation of the ECD.

R1698A 6890 GC TCD Theory and Operation This module teaches you the basic theory and operation of the TCD.

R1699A GC Automatic Liquid Sampler Operation This module teaches you the basic operation of the Agilent automatic liquid
sampler system (ALS). It is designed to help you gain the maximum
productivity from the ALS.

R1700A Logical GC Troubleshooting This module teaches logical steps in troubleshooting GC system problems.
These steps are designed to identify the source of the problem quickly and
prevent the troubleshooting task from becoming overwhelming.

15
 A Sizable Promise
For nearly two decades, Agilent Technologies has been improving the way
laboratories get results, perform their processes, and enhance their
businesses. And the Agilent 6890N Network GC is no exception. With
exemplary performance and outstanding ease-of-use packed into its compact
frame, the 6890 will help improve the efficiency and productivity of your lab.

The Agilent Value Promise–

10 years of guaranteed value
In addition to continually evolving products, we offer something else unique to
the industry-our 10-year value guarantee. The Agilent Value Promise
guarantees you at least 10 years of instrument use from your date of
purchase, or we will credit you with the residual value of that system toward
an upgraded model. Not only does Agilent ensure a safe purchase now, we
help ensure your investment is as valuable to you in the long run.

Information at your fingertips

Stay up-to-date on the 6890N Network GC and other Agilent products.
Register at www.agilent.com/chem to receive exclusive benefits, such as:
• Personalized email notifications that reflect your selected interests
• Access to how-to videos, chromatogram libraries,
application notes, and more
• Free firmware and software updates
• Fast enrollment for e-Seminars and other training

Find out more today

For more information about how you can benefit from the Agilent
6890N Network GC system, Agilent’s support services, or Agilent
training courses, visit us online or call toll free:

http://www.agilent.com/chem
1-800-227-9770 (in the U.S. and Canada)

Outside the U.S. and Canada, please call your local Agilent
Technologies analytical sales office or authorized Agilent
Technologies distributor.

Information, descriptions, and specifications in this publication

are subject to change without notice.

© Agilent Technologies, Inc. 2004

Printed in the USA

June 2, 2004
5989-0973EN