Hardware and software improvements in flow-cytometry measurements

This paper deals with the hardware and software innovations of a new flow-cytometry measurement device, optimized for diagnostic applications in the oncology field. The hardware innovations regard to (i) the data acquisition system, (ii) the laser beam automatic alignment system, and (iii) the cell flow chamber. The software innovations regard to (i) the digital signal processing procedure, (ii) the optimized methodology for classification of the different cell types, and (iii) the programmable gain of each input channel. The paper describes both the hardware and the software architectures of the new flow cytometer. Moreover, the operating mode is highlighted. Preliminary experimental tests evidencing the improved performance of the new measurement device are also discussed. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.