CELL-DYN
®
3200 System Operator’s Manual
A-1
9140181H—October 2001
Appendix A
Bar Codes
Appendix A
Bar Codes
Overview
This section gives a brief overview of what bar coding is, how bar code labels are
used for data entry, and the different types of bar codes that may be used with the
CELL-DYN 3200 System.
Bar coding is an automated method of gathering alphanumeric information and
transmitting it to a computer. Because it eliminates typing and associated errors,
bar coding offers speed, increased accuracy, and efficiency. The following are the
major elements in a bar coding system:
• The computer and appropriate software interprets and stores bar code data.
For the CELL-DYN 3200 System, this is accomplished by the Data Station
and its software.
• The scanning device "decodes" the information on the bar code labels. The
Tower Module on the CELL-DYN 3200 System incorporates an integral bar
code reader, allowing the use of bar codes on both the SL and CS models.
• The bar code labels contain the specimen identification codes.
CAUTION:
Ensure that specimen has been properly identified before
placing bar code label on specimen tube.
Bar Code Function
The bar code label contains the actual identifying data for specimens in the form of
a series of black bars and contrasting white spaces, which represent numbers and
letters. The arrangement of the code follows one of several sets of rules for bar code
languages, called symbologies. To decode the data in the label, a scanning device
is used to pass a small spot of light over the bars and spaces to read them.
Since dark bars reflect little light back into the scanning device, while white space
reflects a lot of light, a light detector inside the scanner can translate the differences
in reflection into electrical signals. The signals are then converted into the sets of
ones and zeros (the binary system used by computers) that stand for numbers and
letters.
