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Angela Lauricella loading optical discs onto the
automated recorder
After
crystallization experiments have been set up in microassay plates,
they are monitored through digital imaging. Images of each experimental
drop are recorded according to the following schedule:
Recording 1.
Immediately prior to the addition of the sample
(cocktail solutions only)
Recording 2.
1 day after adding the sample
Recording 3.
1 week after adding the sample
Recording 4.
2 weeks after adding the sample
Recording 5.
3 weeks after adding the sample
Recording 6.
4 weeks
after adding the sample
The investigator can choose to download the image files through a secure ftp server within minutes of recording. This allows the investigator access to the images with minimal delay. Optical disc recorders automatically produce CD and DVD copies of the image data for distribution and archiving through a database. The database was written and developed at HWI and coordinates nearly every aspect of the high throughput screening laboratory. The image data is also sent to the investigator on a CD-ROM approximately one month after the start of the experiment.
The investigator receives software (called MacroScope) to aid in viewing the images efficiently. All files necessary to run and install MacroScope, as well as complete instructions, are included on the CDROM. Instructions for running MacroScope can also be downloaded here. Users of MacroScope should be familiar with the Windows operating system. The following minimum computer system specifications are recommended for running MacroScope:
Windows
95/98, Windows NT, or Windows 2000
Pentium II 300
64 MB RAM
250 MB hard-drive space per plate
CD ROM Drive
Video card capable of 32-bit true color 1280 x 1024 display