A computer approach toward automation of a chemical services laboratory: I. Instrument support

Abstract

The use of a medium scale computer for instrument support results in several distinct advantages. Instruments of differing data rates and calculation requirements may be supported on the same system at the same time. There is no interference between any of the instruments since each is assigned its own block of time for scanning and its own set of programs for data support. The use of both the on-line and off-line modes permits the easy development of programs and their subsequent incorporation into the program library. It becomes advantageous to look at data supporting instruments that require only small computer support since the off-line mode can be used for this purpose. Instruments previously considered too low in volume to support can enjoy the benefits of off-line computer support at little additional cost. The use of high level languages such as are supported on the medium scale computers make it possible to train laboratory personnel to write and modify their own programs. Their involvement in the programming effort can result in a greater acceptance of the computer as a useful tool in the laboratory, instead of the attitude that sometimes prevails that the computer is a hindrance rather than a help. The ease with which program changes can be made makes the program modification task easier for the programming staff of the computer installation, if laboratory personnel do not perform this function. The medium scale computer provides computational power far exceeding that available on a series of small dedicated computers. The “pooling” of resources results in having available a larger scale computer for those programs and instruments that require it. The degree of sophistication of software available on the medium scale computers is far above that available on the smaller units.