In this tutorial, I will explain how to configure a barcode reader in a device file
In addition, I will demonstrate how to set up barcode verification in a protocol, using a barcode input file.
The barcode input file can be from upstream applications such as LIMS.
This video assumes that you already know how to create a device file in the VWorks software and have basic protocol-writing skills.
If you do not have this background, please view the Device File video first before continuing.
You can also learn about device files and writing basic protocols in the VWorks Automation Control User Guide.
On the Bravo Platform, a barcode reader can be attached to the west or east side of any deck location.
To use it in my protocols, I must first physically install it at an available Bravo deck location, and then configure it in the device file in the VWorks software.
In this video, let’s assume that I have already installed a barcode reader on the west side of deck location 4.
Now I’m ready to add the barcode reader to my device file and configure it.
I'll go ahead and open my device file.
I see that I’ve got the Bravo device already.
I just need to add my barcode reader.
I have the Keyence barcode reader, so I'll add it.
The first thing I have to do is create a profile for it.
I’ll call it Keyence so that I know what it is.
Then I have to select the COM port. In my case, it is COM 1, so I'll select it.
The profile is complete, so I will update it to save the changes, …
and initialize the profile.
Back in the device file, at Bravo deck location 4, …
in the Location Properties area, …
I need to indicate that the barcode reader is on the west side, so I will click BCR on west side, and select my Keyence barcode reader.
Then I'll go ahead and save the device file.
Now I’m ready to use the barcode reader in my protocol.
I have an existing hit-picking protocol. I want to modify it to use my barcode reader.
I want to read source plate barcodes as they enter the system and verify them against the barcode input file that I pulled from my LIMS.
To make this happen, I'll first go to Protocol Options,
and specify the location of the barcode input file here.
Back in the Main Protocol, I will select the source plate, the plate I want to scan…
And in the Barcode information area, I will select the input file I want to use.
Remember that the barcode reader is on the west side, so I will click Barcode or header West, and select the barcode value that appears in the first row of the input file.
Now my source plate is ready for barcode verification.
But I’m not done yet! In the Hit Picking routine, I have to indicate that I want barcode verification.
So I will click the Hit pick task in the routine, and select Verify source plate barcodes.
Now my protocol is ready for barcode reading and verification.
For information about setting up and using a barcode in the BioCel System, see the BioCel System User Guide.
For information about barcode files in general, see the VWorks Automation Control User Guide.