Condensation Prohibiting Imager Readability Calls for a Custom Solution

Situation

In 2015, Ventana Medical Systems, a Roche subsidiary, realized with the release of their latest Ventana Special Stains (VSS) Software, their current Barcode Imager had a problem.

The Ventana Instrument, ULTRA, had moisture build up on the lens because of the extreme condensation inside the instrument. Their 2D barcodes were not being read as a result of the moisture buildup on the lens.

Solution

Ventana ultimately selected a custom manufactured IDS OEM solution.  ID Solutions created a custom barcode imager based on the Zebra DS457 platform.

ID Solutions designed, developed and built a custom electrical PCB that pulled power from the DB9 connector from the instrument and powered two electrical “pins” to contact a custom Indium Tin Oxide Conductive glass lens. By providing power to the pins, the glass lens would heat and maintain at a temperature of 109-114F, thus keeping the lens dry and free of moisture.

The IDS-4551-01 Anti-Condensate Fixed BarCode Imager was born, providing a solution that required zero software changes to the customer. Utilizing the exact mechanical layout Ventana’s prior solution, the IDS-4551-01 was a drop-in custom solution, pairing perfectly with the existing mounting provided by the instrument.

Results

After 6 months of testing, the solution proved an enourmous success in solving the condensation issue. Ventana was able to resume the release of the new VSS Software.

Today, Ventana uses ID Solution barcode imagers for the vast majority of its product portfolio, validating IDS’ technological expertise and a testament to ID Solutions’ capabilities.