Straight forward set up & use
Microfluidic Software Control
[LU-LNK-002] [ELULNK232]LINK
Our LineUp instruments can be controlled locally by the user, with no need for a computer. However, in some cases, using software can be advantageous as it offers more control options, automation, and a more user-friendly interface. For this reason, Fluigent has developed two microfluidic software control modules enabling a stable connection between the instrument and a computer.
The LineUp™ LINK enables connections between the LineUp™ system and a lab PC using USB communication, while the LineUp™ LINK COM allows for connections using serial port communication (RS232). All LineUp™ series modules modules can be controlled using Fluigent Software Solutions and offer access to features such as custom integration, automation or graphical displays.
Main benefits
Intuitive- Compact
Uses minimum bench space
- Automation
Automate your protocols
- Versatile
Multiple connection types
Features of the LINK
Serial port or USB connection
The LINK modules allow for microfluidic software management of all LineUp instruments on common desktop operating systems including Windows, MacOS and Linux, using a serial port or a USB connection.
TTL communication
Two TTL ports let you send or receive signals to trigger events to or from compatible devices.
Sleep mode
Use the LINK button to power ON/OFF or put the entire chain in sleep mode.
Related applications
LINK
LINK COM
Figure 1: The LINK and LINK COM with their different connection types
How to include the microfluidic software control module in your setup
To use the microfluidic software management module, simply connect it to any module or series of modules from the LineUp™ series using the plug & play feature. Up to 8 pressure controller modules can be connected in a chain. The LINK module is then connected to a PC via a USB or RS232 connection, as required, enabling the pressure controller to benefit from a full range of advanced functionalities from Fluigent’s software suite:
- MAT (Microfluidic Automation Tool) for sequence automation
- A-i-O (All-in-One) for monitoring and live control
- SDK (Software Development Kit) for developing custom applications
Once the experiment is over, simply press the power ON/OFF button on the module to put the whole pressure controller chain into sleep mode.
Depending on the needs of each experiment, the TTL connection sockets can be used to connect an accessory, such as a microscope, and synchronize its actions with the pressure-based flow controllers.
What are the main differences between a USB connection and a serial mode connection?
USB and RS232 connections are two types of communication interfaces that can be used to transfer data between a microfluidic setup and a PC. Although the choice between these two types of connection does not affect the microfluidic software management, they have some differences in operation, such as:
- Speed: USB connections are generally faster than RS232 connections.
- Cable length: RS232 connections can transmit data over longer distances than USB connections.
- Voltage levels: RS232 connections use different voltage levels than USB connections. RS232 uses +/-12V to represent a logical 1 or 0, while USB uses 0V and 5V for the same purpose.
In summary, USB connections are generally faster while RS232 connections are better suited for longer distances and use different voltage levels.
Focus on the microscope. No PC is required
Instead of looking at the PC, users can keep their eyes on the microscope, adjusting the control dial with one hand. In this stand-alone configuration, the device allows for pressure or flow rate control and volume dispense making it ideal for benchtop use.
Specifications
OxyGEN
| USB | RS232 |
| Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export | / |
| ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent | / |
Software Development Kit
| USB | RS232 |
| Custom software application | / |
| ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent | / |