Waters 717 Plus Autosampler
| Brand | Waters |
|---|---|
| Origin | Canada |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | 717 Plus |
| Product Category | Chromatography |
| Operational Age | 5–7 years |
| Warranty | 6 months |
| Condition | Refurbished & Fully Tested |
Overview
The Waters 717 Plus Autosampler is a precision-engineered, high-reliability liquid handling module designed for integration with HPLC and UHPLC systems. Built upon the proven mechanical architecture of the Waters Alliance platform, it operates on a fixed-loop, syringe-driven sampling principle—utilizing positive displacement aspiration and injection to ensure consistent volumetric accuracy across diverse solvent and matrix conditions. Its core function is automated, repeatable introduction of liquid samples into chromatographic flow paths with minimal carryover and high inter-injection reproducibility. The 717 Plus was originally developed for regulated QC/QA laboratories requiring traceable, auditable sample handling in compliance with GLP and GMP frameworks. Though discontinued by Waters in the mid-2000s, its robust design, field-proven stability, and broad compatibility with legacy and modern chromatographic data systems (e.g., Empower, MassLynx, Chromeleon) sustain its operational relevance in academic, contract research, and routine testing environments.
Key Features
- Fixed-loop sampling with selectable loop volumes (typically 10 µL to 1000 µL, configurable via hardware modification)
- Syringe-based aspiration and injection mechanism delivering <1% RSD for repeated injections under standardized conditions
- Integrated wash station with dual solvent capability (e.g., water + organic solvent) to minimize cross-contamination
- Temperature-controlled sample tray (ambient or optional Peltier-cooled configuration) supporting 100-position vial capacity (2-mL standard vials)
- RS-232 and analog I/O interfaces for seamless communication with third-party controllers and legacy HPLC modules
- Self-diagnostics and status LED indicators for real-time monitoring of syringe position, valve state, and wash cycle completion
- Refurbishment includes full mechanical recalibration, seal replacement, rotor valve refurbishment, and firmware verification against original Waters specifications
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The 717 Plus accommodates standard 12 × 32 mm glass or polypropylene vials, as well as 96-well microtiter plates (with optional adapter). It handles aqueous buffers, organic solvents (acetonitrile, methanol), and moderately viscous samples (<5 cP) without degradation in precision. All refurbished units undergo leak testing at 6000 psi and carryover validation per USP guidelines using caffeine or acetaminophen test solutions. Documentation includes Certificate of Conformance, refurbishment log, and post-test performance report—supporting audit readiness for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited labs and FDA-regulated facilities operating under 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for electronic records.
Software & Data Management
While the 717 Plus operates independently of proprietary software for basic sequencing, it is fully compatible with Waters Empower™ (2.x/3.x), MassLynx™, and third-party CDS platforms via ASCII command protocol. Sequence files are stored onboard in non-volatile memory (up to 99 methods), enabling unattended overnight runs without host PC dependency. Audit trail functionality is maintained through external software logging; when paired with Empower, all injection events—including vial position, volume, timestamp, and error codes—are captured with user attribution and immutable timestamps, satisfying ALCOA+ data integrity principles. Firmware version is verified and retained at factory-spec level (v3.2x or higher) to ensure deterministic behavior and backward compatibility.
Applications
- Routine pharmaceutical assay and dissolution testing in QC laboratories
- Environmental analysis of pesticides and PAHs in water extracts
- Food safety testing for mycotoxins and preservatives
- Academic method development where instrument longevity and protocol transparency are prioritized over ultra-high throughput
- Backup or secondary autosampler in multi-system HPLC facilities requiring operational redundancy
- Teaching laboratories emphasizing hands-on understanding of HPLC automation fundamentals
FAQ
Is the Waters 717 Plus compatible with modern HPLC systems from Agilent or Thermo Fisher?
Yes—via RS-232 or TTL-level trigger signals, provided the host system supports ASCII-based peripheral control. Adapter cables and protocol documentation are included.
What documentation accompanies the refurbished unit?
Certificate of Conformance, refurbishment checklist, pre- and post-calibration test reports, and a 6-month limited warranty certificate.
Can the sample tray be cooled?
The base model operates at ambient temperature; however, Peltier-cooled tray kits (original Waters P/N 717-00128) are available as optional accessories and can be installed during refurbishment.
Does this unit support partial-loop or variable-volume injection?
No—the 717 Plus uses fixed-loop geometry only. Variable-volume injection requires syringe-based autosamplers such as the Waters 2767 or ACQUITY FTN.
Is firmware upgrade supported?
Firmware is preserved at validated, production-ready versions. Upgrades beyond original specification are not performed, ensuring regulatory consistency and functional predictability.
