"General Failure: Bad plate info from host" error message when starting samples in MassLynx - WKB51947

SYMPTOMS

• "General Failure: Bad plate info from host" error message when trying to start sample list
• Recently changed to new plate type

ENVIRONMENT

• MassLynx 4.1 SCN 884
• ACQUITY UPLC Sample Manager - Flow Through Needle
• ANSI 96-well, 1-mL plates

CAUSE

Incorrect vial location syntax in SAMPLE_LOCATION column on the sample list

FIX or WORKAROUND

1. On Sample List, go to Samples > Autosampler Bed Layout.
2. Select the appropriate plate position in the diagram.
3. Highlight the first position (upper-left corner of the plate).
4. Hit the Add Sample button at the top of the dialog box.
5. Correct syntax is shown in the SAMPLE_LOCATION column (header might be Bottle or Vial).
6. Close Autosampler Bed Layout.
7. Add 15 lines to the sample list.
8. In the SAMPLE_LOCATION column, click on the cell with the correct syntax (from step 5).
9. Highlight this cell and at least 15 rows below it.
10. Right-click and select Fill Series from the content sensitive menu.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Steps 1 through 5 show the syntax that MassLynx is configured to use for the selected plate. Steps 6 through 10 show in what direction across the plate the Sample Manager will move for each consecutive sample.