Book excerpt: A complete, up-to-date guide to the use, maintenance, and troubleshooting of HPLC systems The last twenty-five years have seen a dramatic rise in the use of High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) in laboratories worldwide. Troubleshooting HPLC Systems provides analysts as well as laboratory technicians and managers with a readily accessible and immensely useful guide to the new generation of HPLC equipment and techniques. With an emphasis on effective troubleshooting of HPLC systems, this lab companion covers system configuration and functions, problem-solving procedures, maintenance, and HPLC basics. It then walks chromatographers investigating the source of a malfunction through each system component-from solvents and reservoirs to sample preparation to columns and detectors. Special features of Troubleshooting HPLC Systems include: * A detailed review of HPLC instrumentation and accessories * The role of operating parameters as indicators of system performance * Step-by-step troubleshooting protocols for each system component * How to set up a preventive maintenance program for HPLC systems * An overview of the categories of HPLC separations * A compilation of HPLC terms and definitions * Tables and charts detailing solvents' properties