Precision Measurements, Easy to Use, Reliable Design
Measures: somatic cell counts
The Somacount 150 delivers a rapid and accurate measurement of somatic cell counts (SCC) for early mastitis detection in dairy milk. This proven system is designed for reliability, ease of use and precision measurements.
This instrument is ideal for small to mid-size laboratories that need an easy-to-maintain somatic cell counting system.
- Capable of analyzing up to 150 samples per hour
- Built-in computer offers flexible data output options
- Optional Autosampler for fully automated analysis
- Low maintenance design
Technical overview & principle of operation
The Somacount 150 uses a proprietary process based on the principle of laser-based flow cytometry to determine the somatic cell counts in a milk sample.
- A milk sample is taken automatically and mixed with a fluorescent dye solution.
- This dye disperses the fat globules and stains the DNA in the somatic cells.
- An aliquot part of the stained suspension is injected into a laminar stream of carrier fluid.
- The somatic cells are separated by the stream and exposed to a laser beam.
- As the stained cells pass through the excitation source (laser beam), they begin to fluoresce creating a light pulse.
- Through a series of lenses, the fluorescent pulses are focused onto a photo multiplier tube, where they are converted into electrical pulses.
- The pulses are sorted and stored by size using a micro controller. By using a process known as pulse height analysis, the pulses are sorted, counted and translated into a somatic cell count.
- The software allows for a wide variety of data output options, including serial, parallel and network connections which can be easily formatted to fit into the user’s existing system.
- Operator friendly software with graphic user interface (GUI) helps make the system easy to operate.
- The Somacount 150 meets the requirements of IDF standards for somatic cell counting and is an AOAC approved methodology.
Optional automated sample input
With the optional automated sample device, the Somacount 150 will provide a complete and highly automated lab procedure, where the work process is easily incorporated into the routine.
- The Autosampler can handle most standard vial sizes.
- Optional bar-code readers can be attached to the input tray for automatic sample identification.