The invention disclosure documents some of James C. Sternberg's early work for Beckman Instruments. Irwin H. Krull, Robert L. Litle witnessed the disclosure, which lists Charles J. Kring as a co-inventor.

Beckman Instruments entered the gas chromatograph business in 1956 with the acquisition of the successful Watts Manufacturing Company. Later that year, Beckman Instruments produced its first gas chromatograph, the GC-1, which was intended for laboratory use. Shortly after, Beckman Instruments produced a line of gas chromatographs for industrial use, which offered both automation and customization. These instruments were used by the petroleum industry and in the fight against air pollution.