visionCATS – CAMAG HPTLC Software

visionCATS is the dedicated software platform for controlling CAMAG HPTLC instruments and managing the complete planar chromatography workflow. The software integrates instrument control, data acquisition, evaluation, and reporting into a single intuitive environment, guiding the user through every step of HPTLC analysis – from sample definition to final documentation.

Designed for both routine laboratories and regulated environments, visionCATS simplifies complex chromatographic processes while ensuring reliable, reproducible, and compliant results.

Complete Workflow Control for HPTLC

visionCATS organizes the entire HPTLC analytical process within a structured workflow. Users are guided through the key analytical steps including sample definition, plate development, derivatization, detection, evaluation, and reporting.

The software supports both manual and automated CAMAG instrumentation, enabling seamless control of systems such as:

Linomat 5
Automatic TLC Sampler ATS 4
Automatic Developing Chamber ADC 2
Automated Multiple Development AMD 2
TLC Scanner 4
TLC Visualizer 2

The intuitive interface allows users to quickly select predefined methods or create custom analytical methods by choosing the required process steps.

Advanced Data Evaluation and Visualization

visionCATS provides powerful tools for visual and densitometric evaluation of chromatographic data.

Image-Based Analysis

Using the CAMAG TLC Visualizer, the software captures high-dynamic-range images (HDRI) of HPTLC plates. Integrated image enhancement algorithms enable detection of even weak zones, improving identification reliability.

Key visualization features include:

Image comparison viewer for side-by-side analysis
Track comparison from different plates or detection modes
Image enhancement tools for improved contrast and noise reduction
Generation of 3D chromatographic profiles
RF value display directly on digital plate images

This functionality enables rapid comparison of samples, reference standards, and historical analyses.

Quantitative and Spectral Analysis

For quantitative evaluation, visionCATS controls the CAMAG TLC Scanner and processes densitometric data with advanced analytical tools.

Key capabilities include:

Scanning densitometry with selectable wavelengths
Spectral range: 190 – 900 nm
Multi-wavelength scanning (up to 31 wavelengths per scanning step)
Combination of absorption and fluorescence detection modes
Automatic peak integration and peak assignment
Quantification based on peak height or peak area

Calibration models available:

Linear regression
Polynomial regression
Michaelis–Menten regression
Single-level and multi-level calibration

UV/Vis spectra can be recorded for individual peaks and compared with reference spectra to support compound identification.

HPTLC Method Library

visionCATS includes access to the HPTLC Method Library, which contains validated analytical methods for rapid implementation in routine laboratories.

Each method package typically includes:

Instrument method ready for use in visionCATS
Reference images for sample comparison
Method documentation suitable as an SOP
System Suitability Test (SST) description

The library contains methods from sources such as the USP Dietary Supplement Compendium, the International Association for the Advancement of HPTLC, and selected European Pharmacopoeia procedures.

Regulatory Compliance and Data Security

visionCATS is designed to support laboratories operating in regulated environments.

Compliance features include:

Support for cGMP and cGLP requirements
Optional 21 CFR Part 11 compliance with electronic signatures
Comprehensive log files (system, method, analysis, backup)
User management with access rights and Active Directory integration
Secure database storage preventing unauthorized data modification or deletion
Automated backup and restore functions

Software Architecture

The software is based on a client–server architecture, enabling flexible deployment from a single workstation to a multi-user laboratory network. This scalable architecture allows laboratories to expand their HPTLC systems without changing their software environment.