Sias offers a choice of bar code reading and tracking options for the Xantus product line. Most of these options are plug and play, and your Xantus can be upgraded at any time. Furthermore, the deck-top units can be removed when not in use, providing additional deck-space for other applications.

Fully automated sample batch bar code reading (ID-trax)

The ID-trax is a sample input area for the Xantus Robotic Liquid Handling platform, with integrated CCD camera for reading bar code labels on sample tubes (and other containers, e.g. reagent bottles)

The standard ID-trax module holds up to 6 linear racks, each of which accommodates 16 bar code labelled samples, in tubes of 12-16 mm (options exist for greater capacity, and for containers of different sizes).

The ID-Trax is a plug and play module that can be removed from the Xantus deck when not in use, generating more deck space for other applications. It can also be retrofitted to instruments already in the field.

The operator loads all sample racks into position prior to starting the run. The Xantus automatically reads all sample bar code labels, and uses them in connection with a worklist, or to generate a run list for later processing and analysis. It takes approximately 60 seconds to read 96 bar codes, and the system offers comprehensive error handling options.

The Xantus can be programmed to automatically read all the bar codes a batch prior to sampling, or for additional security, can be read at the moment of aspiration due to the random access feature for all sampling tips.

Continuous load bar code reading of Reagents and Samples (Re-Sa-trax)

The ReSa-trax module automatically reads sample and reagent bar codes as they are loaded. The standard module holds 12 racks each with up to 20 tube positions. Customised racks are also available for holding reagent bottles.

As the operator guides the racks one by one into their tracks, each rack is detected by a sensor, and a fixed scanner automatically reads the bar codes of all the tubes placed in it. This data is stored in the database for later use. It takes approx 1 second to read a rack of tubes.

The sensor detects if a rack is incorrectly placed, and when it is removed, so new tubes can be added continuously (subject to software).

Bar code reading of plates (Plate-trax)

The Plate-trax module is a CCD camera which is installed on the Xantus frame. At any predetermined time in a protocol, the Xantus can take bar code labelled plates to the camera for reading, and the data produced is used in the database to track the progress of individual samples. Complete sample tracking can be guaranteed when Plate-trax is used together with the ID-trax and ReSa-trax options.