New IMMULITE^® 2000 Software Enhances Data Management

DPC's new IMMULITE® 2000 software, version 1.22, expands the system's data management capabilities and enhances its ease of use. The software introduces several features that increase the system's flexibility, including extensive Sample Status displays; Find/Search functions; improved, easy-to-access adjustment logs and inventory listings; and more. It retains all of the features offered with the IMMULITE 2000 Immunoassay System at its launch in March of 1998. An extensive quality control tracking package, LIS data management, on-board inventory control, on-line help and a stand-alone Tutorial/Reference guide are among the standard features of the new software.

Extended Sample Status displays
Sample Status displays, allowing the operator to view results or learn when results will be available for a particular sample or test, are now accessible from multiple screens throughout the software. The operator may access status information directly from the Home screen by highlighting individual racks represented on the sample carousel. The status display includes sample identification; error information associated with a sample, if any; and time-to-result for tests ordered. Status information can also be accessed through the Sample Tubes in Racks option on the Tools menu. This option displays each of the resident racks and each rack's 15 sample-tube positions in a color-coded format. The operator can determine the status of any of the racks or of individual samples on any particular rack at a glance. By simply pointing to a particular rack position, the operator can access the Rack Status screen to view sample identification information, tests ordered, available test results, and the time-to-result for remaining tests.

New Search/Find functions
The Search/Find function of the new software also allows the operator to access information on a particular sample or patient quickly and easily. The Find button on the Home screen accesses a search screen which allows the operator to search for results using a specific date or date range, sample accession number, patient name and/or test type. If the operator does not know the exact name or accession number, entering only the first few letters or numbers for a particular sample or patient will display a listing of all records that match the search parameters. The operator can then choose the correct record to display.

Additional features
Software version 1.22 also offers a range of other new features. The new adjustment log permits historical review of kit lot numbers, adjustment parameters and adjustment results. It displays all pertinent information for each adjustment performed during any period defined by the operator. Retrieval of historical sample and QC data has been simplified as well. Complementing the system's on-board dilution capability is a new feature whereby the operator can enter and automatically correct for manual dilutions performed off-line. In addition, laboratory-defined reflex-testing parameters have been expanded.

The new IMMULITE 2000 software is an intuitive and easy-to-use, yet sophisticated, tool for managing sample/patient data. Many of its features were developed as a direct result of input from laboratorians from around the world. For more information on the IMMULITE 2000 immunoassay system, please contact your local DPC Sales Representative.