Distributed database for analytical instruments

A computer readable medium storing an analytical database comprising at least one test record representing a test performed on an analytical instrument, wherein said at least one test record comprises:

• a first field configured to store user identification information;
• a second field configured to store a user name;
• a third field configured to store a date;
• a fourth field configured to store a time;
• a fifth field configured to store a number of steps for the analytical instrument to perform during said test;
• a sixth field configured to store a number representing a maximum number of electrical control nodes required during said test;
• a seventh field configured to store a textual comment;
• an eighth field configured to store a plurality of step records to direct the analytical instrument;
• a ninth field configured to store a plurality of data records;
• and
• a computer readable medium that stores the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, and ninth fields.