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Tip #21: Setting the Peak Width and Threshold with the Traditional Peak Algorithm

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In the last Empower tip of the week blog for Empower Software, we explored how to compare UV spectra from different channels. This tip will address how to set the Peak Width and Threshold when working with the Traditional peak detection/integration algorithm.

The Peak Width and Threshold work together for peak detection and integration. Taking a minute to set these parameters will make creating the rest of the processing method easier. A recommended approach is to set the Peak Width to the narrowest peak of interest in the chromatogram and set the Threshold to a section of the baseline that just contains noise. And this is very easy to do.

Let me show you how.

Step 1

Bring a channel of data into Review (figure 1).

Figure 1
Figure 1

Step 2

Zoom in on the narrowest peak of interest (figure 2).

Figure 2
Figure 2

Step 3

Draw a baseline under the peak (figure 3).

Figure 3
Figure 3

 Step 4

Click the Set Processing Method Peak Width tool and the value (in seconds) is displayed (figure 4).

Figure 4
Figure 4

That is it. The peak width is now set.

Step 5

Right click inside of the chromatogram and select Unzoom (figure 5).

Figure 5
Figure 5

Step 6

Zoom in on the baseline across the entire width of the chromatogram (figure 6).

Figure 6
Figure 6

Step 7

Zoom in on a section of the baseline that only displays noise (figure 7).

Figure 7
Figure 7

Step 8

Click the Set Processing Method Threshold tool and the value (in microvolts per second) is displayed (figure 8).

Figure 8
Figure 8

That’s it. The threshold is now set.

Step 9

Unzoom and click the Integrate tool (figure 9).

Figure 9
Figure 9

Step 10

Zoom in on the baseline across the entire width of the chromatogram and evaluate the integration (figure 10).

Figure 10
Figure 10

It’s that easy!

Final note:

  1. This works the same if you use the Pro Interface.

Next week in Empower Tip #22: Setting Peak Width and Detection Threshold with the Apex Track Algorithm

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