In recent years, the use of automated cell counting has gained widespread acceptance as a viable alternative to manual hemocytometer-based hematology cbc counting as a viable alternative. It is becoming increasingly popular because it produces more reliable results in a fraction of the time required for manual counting, as well as a significant reduction in user- and concentration-dependent count variability. It was discovered that when comparing automated and manual cell counting methods, the former had improved count reproducibility and accuracy while the latter had significantly decreased the amount of time required to obtain results.
A computerized method of cell counting is possible, and it involves the use of image analysis (flow cytometers) or electrical impedance (Coulter counters). It is possible to determine not only the number of cells in a sample, but also how many of those cells are viable when flow cytometers are used in conjunction with dye image-based cell counters. While most Coulter counters can only determine the number of cells in a sample when used alone, flow cytometers, when used in conjunction with dye image-based cell counters, can also determine how many of those cells are viable. In addition to total cell counts and percentages of viable and dead cells in a sample, automated cbc analyzer counters such as the TC20TM automated cell counter can provide a percentage of viable and dead cells in a sample.
Automatic cell counters such as the TC20, for example, create images by combining bright-field or fluorescent microscopes with digital cameras (CMOS or CCD) and image analysis software to produce a single image. Following that, the images are subjected to analysis with the assistance of computer software. In order to perform their functions, automatic cell counters can either operate independently (as internal PCs) or they can be connected to an external computer, depending on the functionality they provide.
It is necessary to use a disposable consumable (such as a slide or cartridge) to contain the sample in order to ensure that the same volume of sample is analyzed at each analysis session
As a result of this method, it is possible to perform precise volumetric counts with a zero margin for error
Considering that the consumable is a critical component of the counting system, its performance has an impact on the accuracy with which the results are calculated
With an innovative patent-pending design, the TC20 counting slides provide even sample distribution regardless of the pipetting technique employed by the user, resulting in accurate and reproducible results
In addition to product information, the TC20 cell counter product page contains instructional videos, tech notes, and other resources, among other things, to help you learn more about the device
Product information for the TC20 cell counter
Cell viability analysis is performed using colorimetric dyes (such as Trypan blue) when using bright-field cell counters, whereas when using fluorescent cell counters, hematology cbc viability analysis is performed using fluorescent dyes (such as Trypan blue). In the case of fluorescent cell counters, colorimetric dyes (such as Trypan blue) are used to determine the viability of the cells in the sample. Consider finding out how the TC20 automated cell counter counter assesses cell viability using multiple focal plane analysis, which is described in detail below. This method avoids inaccurate counts due to light scattering and alignment of cells at different heights in the counting chamber, which can occur when analyzing viability on a single focal plane only, as demonstrated in the video below. This method also avoids the use of a microscope, which can cause inaccurate counts due to light scattering and alignment of cells at different heights in the counting chamber. The number of individual cells or particles measured by flow cytometers is determined by the number of cells or particles delivered in a flow system past a point of measurement, where light is focused on one hematologic system or particle at a time. In a subsequent step, scattered light and fluorescent signals of various wavelengths are captured and stored, after which the process is repeated.
In spite of the fact that hematology cbc counting is only one of the many features available in this type of instrument, these instruments are rarely purchased solely for the purpose of automated cell counter counting due to the complexity of their operation and the high cost of ownership associated with these devices. A number of flow cytometers make use of precise volumetric pumps, and as a result of this technological advancement, they are capable of producing volumetric counts. It is necessary to introduce a calibrated means (typically beads) into the system prior to obtaining absolute counts when using cytometers that do not have volumetric pumps.
Coulter counters are a type of particle counter that is based on electrical impedance and is used to count the number of particles in a sample. Coulter counters are used in the field of particle counting. When an electrical current is passed through a liquid that contains cells or other objects through a small aperture, the electrical impedance changes in a manner that is proportional to the size of the particles contained within the liquid. Coulter counters, when used in conjunction with a microscope, can be used to determine the number and size of cells per particle present in a specimen under examination. Because of their design, Coulter counters, on the other hand, are unable to provide information on the viability of the cells.
