Typical Errors During Data Processing in Empower
Mistakes happen - but do you know how to correct them in Empower CDS?
In pharmaceutical QC labs, Empower CDS is a powerhouse for data processing – but even experienced analysts run into common pitfalls that can lead to inaccurate results, compliance issues, or wasted time.
Here’s a practical guide to typical problems and their solutions.
These issues often come from wrong settings in processing methods or sample sets, but they’re easy to fix with the right steps.
Remember: In GMP environments, always document changes and reprocess to maintain traceability.
Error 1: Incorrect Integration
Problem:
Integration parameters are set incorrectly, resulting in:
- inappropriate baseline positioning
- wrong peak identification, or
- peaks not being integrated despite being present.
Solution:
- Go to Sample Set → Review.
- Adjust integration parameters in the processing method.
- Save the processing method.
- Reprocess the sample set to create a new result set.
Goal in GMP:
Integration parameters should ideally work for all chromatograms across the entire sample set to avoid or minimize manual integration.
Error 2: Incorrect Peak Naming
Problem:
Peaks are named or identified incorrectly, causing errors in further quantitation and reporting.
Solution:
- Go to Sample Set → Review.
- Adjust component names or retention times in the processing method.
- Save the processing method.
- Reprocess the sample set to create a new result set.
Error 3: No or Incorrect Calibration Curve
Problem:
Calibration curves are not generated due to:
- mismatches between the processing method and Component Editor,
- no Values entered, or
- incorrect sample types.
Solution:
- Go to Sample Set → Alter Sample.
- Check if Values are defined in the Component Editor.
- Ensure component names are identical between the Component Editor and the processing method.
- Verify Sample Types in the sample set: standards used for calibration must have “Standard” type (no other samples should have this type unless intended for the curve).
- Save the changes.
- Reprocess the sample set to create a new result set.
Error 4: No Result Set Generated
Problem:
Processing the sample set produces no result set.
Solution 1:
- Go to Sample Set → Alter Sample.
- Check the Processing column: Lines to be processed must be set to “Normal” (not “Don’t Process or Report”).
- If your sample set includes “Calibrate” and “Quantitate” functions at the end, set those to “Normal” while others remain “Don’t Process or Report”.
- Reprocess the sample set to create a new result set.
Solution 2:
- If processing with a method set, confirm the method set includes the correct processing method.
- Reprocess the sample set to create a new result set.
General Tips During Data Processing
For all problems above:
- The sample set must be reprocessed after any adjustments.
- Reprocessing creates a new result set while retaining the original (incorrect) one – essential for traceability and GMP compliance.
- When reprocessing, always add an appropriate comment explaining why the new result set was created. This makes data review easier, supports compliance, and strengthens audit readiness.
If these challenges sound familiar from your team’s daily work, contact us for tailored consulting or team training in Empower CDS.
We specialize in customized solutions – from process optimization and troubleshooting to on-site/online workshops, routine development, documentation, and long-term expert helpdesk.
With small groups, hands-on focus, and GMP expertise, we help your lab apply knowledge directly and effectively – saving time and ensuring compliance.
Contact us today: info@labwissen.com
Let’s discuss how we can support your team – whether it’s a quick consultation or a full training program! 