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How CID and CID Hub work

A Connected Instrument Device (CID) is a preconfigured controller for one analytical system running OpenLab CDS. CID Hub is the central web application used to register, configure, monitor, update, and administer CIDs.

One CID and one analytical system​

Each CID contains an Oracle Linux host and an embedded Windows VM. The Windows VM runs the OpenLab Instrument Controller software and the drivers for the analytical system. Keeping one CID paired with one analytical system preserves a tested hardware and software configuration throughout the deployment.

The 1:1 relationship applies to the analytical system rather than to each physical device. If the analytical system uses two physical connections, connect both devices to the CID through a network switch.

CDS clients on the corporate network connect to the CID to control the instrument. Analytical data and instrument communication remain within the OpenLab CDS environment; CID Hub provides management rather than analytical data storage.

Central management​

CID Hub stores the desired configuration for every CID in an account. Administrators use it to register OpenLab Servers, activate devices, define software selections, configure networking, manage trusted certificate authorities, and perform recovery operations. Users can monitor CID state and perform the operational actions allowed by their roles.

The CID maintains an outbound connection to CID Hub. Through that connection, it receives configuration and software-management commands and reports status and activity. CID Hub does not initiate an inbound internet connection to a CID.

Deployment lifecycle​

A typical CID moves through these stages:

  • Your organization prepares its corporate and instrument networks.
  • An Administrator registers the OpenLab Server and defines its software template.
  • The physical CID is linked to a CID Hub record and activates over the Corporate NIC.
  • The CID receives its configuration and software, then registers with the OpenLab Server.
  • An OpenLab administrator configures the attached instrument in OpenLab Control Panel.
  • CID Hub continues to monitor and maintain the CID throughout its service life.

To learn this workflow, start with Getting started.

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