Date: 7-APRIL-2012 Last Updated: 10-AUGUST-2026
Overview
The primary difference between the Chemical Solutions™ HSQ Kit™ and PQ Kit™ is the speed at which HPLC system qualification can be completed.
Both kits are designed to perform HPLC instrument performance qualification and verification using validated procedures and certified materials. However, the HSQ Kit™ was developed to streamline the qualification process and reduce overall testing time. The PQ is still available as a legacy product.
What Does HSQ Stand For?
HSQ stands for High Speed Qualification.
The HSQ Kit™ was specifically designed for laboratories seeking a faster qualification process while maintaining the same confidence in qualification results and system performance.
Faster Qualification Through a Shorter Certified Column
One of the key differences between the HSQ Kit™ and the PQ Kit™ is the qualification column supplied with the kit.
The HSQ Kit™ includes a shorter certified HPLC column that reduces analysis run times while maintaining the performance characteristics required for qualification procedures.
As a result, laboratories can complete the same qualification testing in approximately one-quarter of the time previously required using the traditional PQ Kit™ methodology.
This reduction in analysis time can improve laboratory productivity and reduce instrument downtime associated with routine qualification activities.
Enhanced Resolution Test Mixture
The HSQ Kit™ also contains a modified Resolution Test Mixture.
This formulation includes an additional peak that may be useful for evaluating extra-column volume in highly efficient HPLC systems.
Benefits may include:
- Improved characterization of modern HPLC systems
- Better assessment of extra-column effects
- Additional information regarding system performance
While this additional peak is not required for qualification, some laboratories may find the enhanced evaluation beneficial for advanced instrument assessments.
Simplified Operating Instructions
Another significant improvement included with the HSQ Kit™ is the documentation format.
The traditional PQ Kit™ instruction manual was consolidated into a streamlined Quick Start Instruction format to simplify implementation and reduce setup time.
The HSQ Kit™ includes:
- Quick Start Instructions
- Reference documentation
- Previous PQ Kit™ instruction materials
- Qualification guidance resources
This allows users to benefit from simplified procedures while retaining access to detailed technical reference information when needed.
Technical Support
Both the HSQ Kit™ and PQ Kit™ include the same level of technical support.
Users of either qualification kit have access to:
- Product support
- Qualification assistance
- Technical guidance
- Application support
Laboratories can therefore select the kit that best matches their workflow requirements without sacrificing access to expert assistance.
Choosing Between HSQ Kit™ and PQ Kit™
Consider the HSQ Kit™ If:
- Qualification speed is important.
- Instrument downtime must be minimized.
- High-throughput laboratory operations are required.
- A streamlined qualification workflow is preferred.
Consider the PQ Kit™ If:
- Existing SOPs are based on traditional PQ Kit™ procedures.
- Historical qualification consistency is preferred.
- Current workflows already align with established PQ Kit™ methodologies.
Both kits provide validated procedures designed to support reliable HPLC system qualification.
Key Takeaways
- The primary difference between the HSQ Kit™ and PQ Kit™ is qualification speed.
- HSQ stands for High Speed Qualification.
- The HSQ Kit™ utilizes a shorter certified qualification column to reduce run times.
- Qualification procedures can be completed in approximately one-quarter of the time required by traditional PQ Kit™ methods.
- The HSQ Kit™ includes an enhanced resolution test mixture for evaluating highly efficient HPLC systems.
- Quick Start Instructions simplify implementation while retaining access to detailed reference documentation.
- Both kits include the same technical support and qualification assistance.