Hudson Robotics Dried Blood Spot Processor - Manual (Page 3)

DBS Processor Page 1
SECTION I
INTRODUCTION
The Hudson Dried Blood Spot Processor (DBS) links the barcode identification of a sample (a
dried blood spot or other sample impregnated on paper) to a location in a micro-titer plate. After
the micro-titer plate is processed, the assay results can easily be linked eliminating the chance of
sample mis-identification.
The operator loads the micro-titer plate into the plate holder and the operator then instructs the
processor to move to the first well. The operator picks up a sample and positions the barcode
under the scanner. When the barcode is read and recognized, the operator then positions the
sample under the punch selecting the best part of the sample to be inserted into the plate well.
When the spot is properly positioned, the operator will press the foot switch, activating the
punch. The spot is automatically inserted into the plate well.
The DBS automatically indexes the micro-titer plate to the next well location. The operator
selects the next sample and follows the procedure described above. The operator repeats this
cycle until the last well of the plate is completed, at which time, the result data is processed.
At completion of the plate, the result data is written to a data file and archived to the computer’s
hard drive. The result data includes the micro-titer plate id, date/time, and specimen bar code
ids.
The processor utilizes several means to avoid error:
1. The plate holder is cornered allowing the plate to be inserted in only one orientation.
2. The computer, communicating to the processor via RS-232, confirms a plate is loaded into
the holder by monitoring a sensor located internal to the plate holder.
3. The computer monitors a sensor (located on the punch mechanism) to insure the punch has
returned to its up position.