Amino acid analysis of physiological fluids with a Beckman Model 120C amino acid analyzer requires the use of 2 columns and 2 buffers for each column. A standard analysis requires a long column (0.9 x 69 cm) for the separation of acidic and neutral amino acids by 2 buffers, A and B, pH 3.20, 0.2 M Na(+) and pH 4.26, 0.2 M Na(+), respectively. The basic amino acids are separated on a short column (0.9 x 29 cm) by buffers C and D, pH 4.25, 0.38 N Ma(+) and pH 5.36, 0.35 M Na(+), respectively. The report describes an alternative means of automation.