A short review of current laboratory microcomputer systems and practice

Area of Science:

• Computer Science
• Laboratory Automation
• Scientific Instrumentation

Background:

• The advent of powerful, low-cost microcomputer systems (US $3000-10,000) has transformed laboratory capabilities.
• Microcomputers now possess functionalities previously exclusive to minicomputers, driven by extensive software development.
• The increasing adoption of microcomputers has led to a robust and versatile software ecosystem.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the feasibility and benefits of utilizing microcomputers in diverse laboratory applications.
• To demonstrate how microcomputers can streamline laboratory workflows and reduce operational costs.
• To showcase the potential of microcomputers to replace conventional laboratory equipment.

Main Methods:

• Leveraging the extensive software base of microcomputers for laboratory tasks.
• Implementing microcomputers for signal averaging, experimental control, and data processing.
• Utilizing microcomputers for result storage, graphical representation, and statistical analysis.

Main Results:

• Microcomputers are now capable of performing complex laboratory functions including signal averaging, experiment control, and data analysis.
• A wide array of software enables microcomputers to handle tasks such as plotting, curve fitting, statistics, and word processing.
• The integration of microcomputers can eliminate the need for costly equipment like analog tape recorders, strip chart recorders, and stimulus generators.

Conclusions:

• Microcomputers present a cost-effective and powerful solution for numerous laboratory needs.
• The versatility of microcomputers enhances laboratory efficiency and reduces the requirement for specialized instrumentation.
• Adoption of microcomputers offers substantial financial savings and expands the analytical capabilities within research environments.