Microcomputers And Laboratory Instrumentation

The invention of the microcomputer in the mid-1970s and its subsequent low-cost proliferation has opened up a new world for the laboratory scientist. Tedious data collection can now be automated relatively cheaply and with an enormous increase in reliability. New techniques of measurement are accessible with the "intelligent" instrumentation made possible by these programmable devices, and the ease of use of even standard measurement techniques may be improved by the data processing capabilities of the humblest micro. The latest items of commercial laboratory instrumentation are invariably "computer controlled", although this is more likely to mean that a microprocessor is involved than that a versatile microcomputer is provided along with the instrument. It is clear that all scientists of the future will need some knowledge of computers, if only to aid them in mastering the button pushing associated with gleaming new instruments. However, to be able to exploit this newly accessible computing power to the full the practising laboratory scientist must gain sufficient understanding to utilise the communication channels between apparatus on the laboratory bench and program within the computer. This book attempts to provide an introduction to those communication channels in a manner which is understandable for scientists who do not specialise in electronics or computers.

Computer Applications -- Computers in other Systems.

The authors believe that the effectiveness of future generations of scientists depends in part on their ability to use intelligently, diagnose, and modify their microcomputer-based and electronic instrumentation. Using a "top-down" approach, the authors present electronic concepts, principles, and technology that are impacting our daily lives. They start at the top, by providing a broad perspective of electronic instrumentation, and work down to functional modules, devices, and detailed operations. This top-down approach enables all of the pieces to fit together so that a working knowledge is developed as one proceeds through the chapters. Written specifically for chemists, physicists, engineers, biologists, medical researchers, students, and other technical personnel who can benefit from "making the right connections" to modern instrumentation, this book will empower you to gain better control and make better use of your microcomputers and laboratory instruments.

The invention of the microcomputer in the mid-1970s and its subsequent low-cost proliferation has opened up a new world for the laboratory scientist. Tedious data collection can now be automated relatively cheaply and with an enormous increase in reliability. New techniques of measurement are accessible with the "intelligent" instrumentation made possible by these programmable devices, and the ease of use of even standard measurement techniques may be improved by the data processing capabilities of the humblest micro. The latest items of commercial laboratory instrumentation are invariably "computer controlled", although this is more likely to mean that a microprocessor is involved than that a versatile microcomputer is provided along with the instrument. It is clear that all scientists of the future will need some knowledge of computers, if only to aid them in mastering the button pushing associated with gleaming new instruments. However, to be able to exploit this newly accessible computing power to the full the practising laboratory scientist must gain sufficient understanding to utilise the communication channels between apparatus on the laboratory bench and program within the computer.

M->CREATED

Sample Text

The Use of Computers for Laboratory Automation gives readers sufficient knowledge of computer systems and automation to enable them to read, and evaluate critically, technical literature and system specifications, thereby allowing the active participation in the selection, implementation, use and maintenance of computer systems in laboratories. The Use of Computers for Laboratory Automation addresses the fundamental concepts in computer engineering, software engineering and automation. It places the emphasis on principles of operation rather than on `product specific' details, which makes it independent and to a large degree `future-proof'. Particular attention is given to Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and the associated verification and valuation of computers in regulated (GLP) environments. The book is written in an approachable style, using simple technical language, making it easily accessible to scientists at all professional levels (licentiate, graduate, practising professional) and capacities (technician, analyst, technical manager etc.), and from many different disciplines.