Understanding the LHC Software

The Liquid Handling Control (LHC) software provides another way to control your washer or dispenser, in addition to the instrument's touch screen or keypad. The host computer's expanded work space makes it easier to create and print liquid handling protocols. It also allows the LHC to offer additional features for more efficient plate processing.

The LHC communicates with the instrument's onboard software or basecode to determine and display that instrument's options, range limits, etc. When the LHC is connected to and communicating with an instrument, it displays buttons like "Dispense" and "Aspirate" that are specific to the instrument's capabilities.

The LHC also offers controls like Loop and Delay. Except when using the 405 TS washer, these LHC steps cannot be downloaded to an instrument for stand-alone operation. You must keep the instrument connected to the computer and use the LHC to run protocols that contain LHC steps: Delay, Remark, Loop, and the BioStack steps.

The LHC will control the BioStack, too. Connect both the liquid handler and the BioStack to your computer and control both with the LHC.

LHC Secure offers tools that meet the requirements of the FDA's 21 CRF Part 11 policy.

 Download-Upload

The LHC lets you define protocols on your host computer and download them to the instrument for stand-alone (non-computer controlled) operation. Similarly, you can upload programs from your washer/dispenser to your host computer to use the LHC to modify or run them. There are certain limitations, as noted above, and in this topic: Transferring Protocols.

 What the LHC cannot do:

The LHC has some limitations:

• LHC does not (cannot) determine if there is sufficient fluid or labware to execute the protocol successfully. It is your responsibility to make sure each step can be successfully completed.
• Except when using the 405 TS washer, protocols that include the LHC-provided support steps like Delay and Loop cannot be downloaded to an instrument. To run protocols that include the In the Add Step area of LHC main view, the LHC steps are the buttons in the left column: Delay, From File, etc.LHC steps you must keep the instrument connected to the computer.
• Downloading protocols to an instrument may be limited by the instrument's basecode. For example, you can only download one-step protocols to the ELx405. You can then "Link" programs using the keypad, but you cannot download or upload "linked" programs.
• Some hardware configuration details for some instruments must be set using the keypad controls. For example, you may need to return the instrument to its main menu using the keypad, to put it in the required state for communicating with the LHC.