The Use Of Computers For Laboratory Automation

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.

Computer Applications -- Physical Sciences and Engineering.

Devices and Systems for Laboratory Automation Structured Overview on the Available Systems and Devices for Laboratory Automation Choosing the right systems and devices for the automation in any given laboratory is an essential part for the process to succeed. As relevant information to make an informed choice is not always readily available, a structured overview is essential for modern scientists. This book provides an introduction into laboratory automation and an overview of the necessary devices and systems. Sample topics discussed by the two well-qualified authors include: Specific requirements the automation needs to fulfill such as liquid delivery, low volume delivery, solid delivery, and sample preparation An overview on robots and mobile robots Common interfaces in laboratory automation For scientists and all individuals working in laboratories, the work serves as an indispensable resource in helping to make laboratory processes more streamlined, effective, and efficient.

By closing the gap between general programming books and those on laboratory automation, this timely book makes accessible to every laboratory technician or scientist what has traditionally been restricted to highly specialized professionals. Following the idea of "learning by doing", the book provides an introduction to scripting using AutoIt, with many workable examples based on real-world scenarios. A large portion of the book tackles the traditionally hard problem of instrument synchronization, including remote, web-based synchronization. Automated result processing, database operation, and creation of graphical user interfaces are also examined. Readers of this book can immediately profit from the new knowledge in terms of both increased efficiency and reduced costs in laboratory operation. Above all, laboratory technicians and scientists will learn that they are free to choose whatever equipment they desire when configuring an automated analytical setup, regardless of manufacturers suggested specifications.

Computing and information management technologies touch our lives in the environments where we live, play and, work. High tech is becoming the standard. Those of use who work in a laboratory environment are faced with an obvious challenge. How do we best apply these technol ogies to make money for our companies? The first level of deliverable benefits is achieved through task automation. The second level is ob tained by integrating the individual islands of automation. The third, or top level, of benefits is related to applying intelligence to computing applications. The use of computing technology, at level one, to automate lab pro cedures, methods, and instruments has been profitable for many years. We can easily find yearly returns in the range of 10-50% for investments at this level. For level two, the integration of some applications has evolved and has led to data management systems and local area net working in the lab environment. Investment paybacks at level two are substantially higher, in the range of 200-400%. Examples of applications at the top level, that of intelligent systems and applications, are few and far between. And what about the payback for investments at this level? With such limited experience at level three, we can only estimate the benefits. But again, they appear to be much higher, in the range of 2000- 4000%.

This text is primarily intended for readers who have some background in chemistry and who wish to find out more about the ways in which computers and electronics are influencing the techniques of observing chemical systems, the acquisition of data, its storage, and its transmission from one location to another. Many important concepts - such as interfacing, data collection, data bases, information services and computer networks - are covered in an easily assimilated and comprehensive way.