Getting Started¶
GC Image is the pioneer and industry leader in software for comprehensive two-dimensional chromatography (GCxGC and LCxLC), offering customizable software suites tailored to user-specific multidimensional chromatography applications. GC Image software suites include a range of tools for data visualization, processing, analysis, multisample comparisons, and reporting. Covering all the essentials, GC Image software options provide a comprehensive solution for working with data from GCxGC, LCxLC, and other multidimensional analytical systems.
To get started using GC Image, request a free trial of the GCxGC edition and follow along with the Quick Start Demo.
What's New in the Latest Release¶
Support for NIST 2026 Mass Spectral Library and Search Software
Version 2026 adds support for the latest NIST 2026 Mass Spectral Library and Search software, with more reliable spectrum retrieval and support for NIST26 demonstration versions.
Automatic Phase Shift Using Computer Vision
Version 2026 introduces Shift Phase to Reference, which uses computer vision to automatically determine the phase shift needed to align an image with a reference, eliminating repetitive manual adjustments.
Automated Peak Matching with Computer Vision
Version 2026 introduces a computer-vision-based peak matching algorithm that aligns template peaks using a reference image, providing more reliable matching for chromatograms affected by significant retention time drift or complex matrices.
Enhanced Interactive Multi-Projections View
Version 2026 has a more interactive Multi‑Projections view that stays open alongside the Image View, tracks the active image, and provides clearer outlines, improved status feedback, and enhanced saving options.
Previous Release Highlights (v2020 - v2025)¶
Improved 64-bit Performance
Starting from v2020R1, a new 64-bit framework provides improved performance and system stability for all operations when processing data larger than 2GB.
Hybrid Blob Detection
The Hybrid blob detection algorithm is able to take advantage of both 1D and 2D peak shapes.
Batch Reprocessing
Project supports reprocessing batches of images with methods that aim at different analyses and reports of the same data.
Improved 1D Visualization
The 1D View is able to display the blob profiles.
Improved Quantification with Multipliers and Dilution Factors
Amount calibration supports calculating concentration from amount with Multiplier and Dilution Factor.
Updated Support for Agilent 2D-LC Data
The support for 2D-LC data has been extended to the latest Agilent MassHunter and OpenLab CDS.
Command Line Interface for Advanced Workflows
The Command Line interface allows for automating complicated processing involving multiple tools or software.
Background Subtraction for Batch Processing
Method commands support subtracting background noise from chromatograms during batch processing.
Improved Mesh Editing for Group Type Analysis
Improved editing tools make comprehensive group analysis with mesh templates (e.g., ASTM D8396, UOP-990) more efficient.
Support for NIST23 and New Library Search Types
Starting with v2022, library search is now compatible with NIST23 and supports performing MS/MS Identity and MS/MS Hybrid Similarity searches.
Differential Peak Analysis with Compare Images Tool
Compare Images now provides comprehensive characterization of sample differences down to individual peaks.
Faster and More Flexible Multi-Sample Alignment
Investigator now has significantly improved performance and a new class-based workflow for multi-sample alignment.
Full Centroiding Support for Importing Profile MS Data
Profile data can be converted to centroid spectra when importing a profile MS data file.
Improve Compound ID Confidence with Enhanced Library Search Review
Version 2024R3 introduces a new Library Search Review mode that provides hit evaluation constraints (e.g. match factors, RI, MW ions, isotopes) and color-coded scores to facilitate quick assessment.
Easily Explore Targeted Ion Chromatograms with Spectral Group Review
Version 2024R3 has a new Spectral Group Review mode for fast extraction and review of ion chromatograms for targeted compounds or groups, defined by formulas, general formulas, or peptide sequences.
Enhanced Quantification with Group-Based Response Factors
Version 2024 includes a suite of new features designed to streamline and enhance the quantification workflow using group-based response factors.
Enhanced Boiling Range Distribution Analysis with Slice Reports
Version 2024 introduces significant improvements to the Slice Report functionality, specifically designed to enhance the analysis of boiling range distributions.
Side-by-Side Chromatogram Comparison with Customizable Blob Attributes
Version 2024R1 supports customizing peak attributes for Compare Images Side-by-Side, making analysis workflow more relevant to the user's specific needs.
New Compound Finder Algorithm for Multi-Sample Comparison
The enhanced Compound Finder 2024r1 algorithm results in more accurate identification of common compounds across multiple samples and unique compounds specific to individual samples.
Enhanced Ion Chromatogram Extraction with Peptide Sequence
Version 2024R2 introduces enhanced capabilities for MS range selection, allowing users to specify peptide sequences for selected ion chromatogram (SIC) extraction.
New Difference View for Side-by-Side Chromatogram Comparison
Version 2025 introduces Difference View, a powerful tool designed to quickly identify and analyze differences between two chromatograms.
Integrated Compare Images Support within Multi-Sample Analysis
Perform a more comprehensive comparison of two samples by combining analytical insights with direct visual inspection of chromatograms and peaks, ensuring thorough evaluations.
New Pre-Configured Analysis Tools
Version 2025 includes three new tools for multi-sample analysis: Compare Classes, Run PCA, and Run F-Test.
Customizable Adduct Library
Enhanced adducts library adds expanded defaults and supports importing custom adduct definitions, enabling tailored analyses with selected ion chromatograms.
New Interactive Notebook-Style Method
Standardize workflows requiring human input using interactive methods with step-by-step execution and custom instructions at each stage, helping retain and share expert know-how.
Enhanced Method Editor and Workflow Customization
Version 2025 delivers enhanced method creation capabilities that streamlines template handling, simplifies saving key analysis tables, and introduces customizable step settings that automatically capture parameters from processed images for more consistent method creation.
Improved 2D RT Calibration Workflow
Version 2025 enhances the Import Match and Update Template tools for 2D RT calibration, making it easier to apply reference-based matches to correct retention time drift, update sample templates, and adapt methods to new columns or changing conditions.
Streamlined Operation Journal
Newly designed operation journal includes more search and undo capabilities, making it easier to verify audit trails and quickly locate prior processing settings.