Quick Start Guide IncuCount
IncuCount Automated Colony Counter (RSIC150)
HARDWARE INSTALLATION:
Before setting up any new counting parameter, please ensure that the system is properly
set-up (user manual is not yet updated for the hardware installation). The newest IncuCount now connects via WiFi (to
“RS
-
Counter” network). The connection may require several minutes to complete. Both the Android Tablet and the
IncuCount should be plugged into a wall outlet for power. We also recommend that you first charge the Android Tablet
overnight as the battery will take a long time to charge. We also recommend that you keep the Android Tablet plugged
in when not in use.
SOFTWARE SET-UP:
Optimize and set-up Colony Profile for each plate type to be counted:
1. Select and then turn on overhead or backlit lighting. The knobs are in the back of the system and have four different
settings, note which one you use for each Parameter Profile setting.
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Backlit lighting is most commonly used because of the higher contrast it produces
-
Overhead lighting is best for counting in color and/or when using opaque matrices
2. Turn on Android Tablet tablet by holding the power button for 3 seconds (wait for vibrate cue). The IncuCount
application will automatically load.
3. Place sample into the IncuCount system and then view image by selecting “Pause/Preview” and “Preview” from the
top menu bar.
*If there is no image on the Android Tablet, check that “RS
-
Counter” network is visible and active by scrolling
down
with your finger from the upper left corner of the screen by the wifi icon.
4. Determine if you will use a calibration image to subtract background for more accurate counting. Note that this may
not always work as small defects in an agar plate can create problems after subtraction. For best results, always use a
pristine plate or filter devoid of marks and bubbles. To Save a calibration plate profile, simply use the same camera
settings already loaded into the camera parameters, press “Save” and name the calibration file. Then select “Apply”
Calibration Image.
**For the remainder of the steps involved in setting the count parameters, REMEMBER TO ALWAYS ENSURE THAT
“Preview” IS SELECTED ON THE TOP MENU BAR.
5. We suggest unselecting the “Light Colonies” button when measuring most types of colonies. Sometimes plaques and
dark/opaque agar give better counts when using light colony mode.
6. Press the Count button to get an idea how things look at this point. Colonies outlined in green will be counted. Those
outlined in red fall outside the counting parameters and will not be counted. The red and green outlines change
dynamically as you adjust the parameters. You can stretch and pinch to zoom and expand to see the details.
