BE|USB Converter for use with the BE2100 Biomass sensor

BE|USB Sensor Converter

Direct Digital Sensor Communication

The BE|USB is among the latest additions to BugLab's noninvasive optical monitoring systems, designed for use in both research laboratory and industrial environments. It provides both power and digital connectivity via USB for one BE2100 biomass/OD sensor. The functionality is virtually identical to that of the BE2100 base unit, but is a smaller footprint and lower-cost solution for those users who do not need the features of the base unit such as: analog outputs, RS-232 connectivity, fluorescent display, or keypad operation.

Software Included

The BE|USB sensor converter is controlled through software via USB, enabling straightforward integration into a fermentor or bioreactor control system or connectivity with a computer. The included software program provides intuitive controls and the ability to track growth in real time. The software can also calibrate the sensor output to any desired units (OD, g/L, cells/mL, etc.) as well as track important events (e.g. inoculation, nutrient additions).

Simple Command Set

As an alternative to running the standard computer program, a well-documented serial command set is provided for communicating with the sensor using simple commands. The commands can be called from within any other computer program or control system that has the ability to send and receive serial commands. This makes it easy to integrate the BE system with other instrumentation. A LabView® instrument driver is also available on request.

How it Works

The BE2100 sensor stores all key settings and converts measurements into digital format internally. The BE|USB provides power for the BE2100 sensor, and creates a Virtual Communications Port (VCP) for communicating with the sensor using serial commands. The BE|USB can also be interfaced through USB expansion hubs (available as an accessory), making it possible to communicate with multiple sensors, while using only a single USB port on a computer.

BE|USB Features

User Interface Software Features (CD included with BE|USB )

• Real-time graphical and numerical display for each sensor

• Event marking on graph, both pre-defined and user-defined

• Baseline setting and subtraction

• User calibration of sensor output to any reference units

• Access to all sensor and base unit settings

User Interface Software Requirements

• Windows XP/ Vista / 7 Operating System

• Available USB or 9-pin RS-232 COM port

• Minimum 200 MB free hard disk space

• CD reader (required only at time of software installation)

BE|USB Specifications