Barcode/Hardware FAQ's

Q. Why is there such large price differences between most bar-coding hardware packages?

A. We think it is easy to get locked into the more money is equal to better hardware, but we have found just the opposite. Why pay thousands for a thermal label printer that you can accomplish the same goal with one priced in the hundreds. Many of those expensive label printers are loaded with expensive labels. We only sell proven printers that print on the least expensive labels on the market. Most labels are only on the bottles for a few years why pay .25/label when you can pay .03/label and discard it when needed. As for expensive readers, if your inexpensive reader can read the inexpensive barcode labels why should you pay more. Just a note: Our oldest hardware station as been in place for over eight years with absolutely no problems.

Q. Do I have to use the bar coding with the Tribal-LDMS?

A. No, Our system will operate seamlessly with or without the bar-coding hardware attached. The bar-coding hardware is included with every system purchase, but it can be hooked up or set aside until you are ready for coding.

Q. Is bar coding only used in Sample Tracking?

A. The Tribal-LDMS uses bar coding throughout our system. It is used in Sample tracking, as well as, chemical inventory, MSDS, data entry, several note fields, special labeling, QC sample/results entry, numerous reports and in future features, like the new "Reagent label maker".

Q. What are the benefits of bar coding/scanning?

A. There are many benefits in bar coding. Here are a few:

• It is used to speed data entry and in searching for a specific sample.
• Bar coding is used as a unique identifier for a selected sample.
• It creates an unbiased relationship between the sample and the technician. Lab personnel will not tend to treat the sample as a known when all they have is a number.
• Bar-coded worksheets are used to assign work and assist in the update of the sample information.
• Ensures customers of data security and eliminates all of the common keyboard errors associated with sample selection.
• Shows professionalism and established technology to outside contractors.
• Used to query reports and special input of common dialog into many note fields.
• Allows the laboratory to establish their own in-house numbering system for chemical inventory, MSDS, and QC samples.

Q. I want the system to calculate the number of labels I need. I also want complete control over label generation and the flexibility to eliminate defaulted labels at real time. Can I accomplish this?

A. Bar coding and label generation are not magic. That is why the system can only suggest certain numbers of labels and label types based on predetermined information (Study, project, container type, size etc.) The Tribal system gives you the flexibility to change that information and force the system to calculate and change the number of defaulted labels. With our pop-up label factory, you still have the opportunity to select duplicate labels and eliminate other labels on the fly.

Q. We often want the analyses to be run on each container? We have used color dots and grease pencils and a variety of special codes to determine the analyses on a sample bottle. How does the Tribal system handle these problems?

A. . In our newest release we have added a new feature that allows the user to generate full label sheets of analyses based on projects and saved templates. With these labels, you can have the analyses information displayed as a full name or as an abbreviated name. These smaller labels can then be attached to samples as added into the lab and the analyses are displayed on the container. The technician can scratch out analyses as performed and remove the label when finished. There is no bottle cleanup for markers and special codes to remember.