Interfacing clinical laboratory instruments with a computer system

This paper describes a number of methods of interfacing clinical laboratory instruments with a computer system. The instrument interface portion of the Laboratory Data Acquisition System, an IBM Installed User Program, is described, as is the use of the IBM 7406 Device Coupler. Emphasis is placed on establishing a standard interface for all new instruments. A method of adding the standard interface to older instruments using the IBM 7406 Device Coupler is discussed.