The flow cytometry data acquisition and file exchange system being assembled in the WEHI Flow Systems Laboratory is the result of a series of, to some extent, ad hoc responses to perceived requirements at the various stages of its 10 year development. While it would be unwise to consider reproduction of this entire system at other sites, there are features of the network which could be of general utility.
Data is acquired from three flow cytometers by two pdp11 computers and one MDADS. The resultant files can be transferred to or between the pdp11's by way of a 16 bit parallel data router for analysis or joint hard copying. The mass storage devices on these computers include floppy discs, Winchester drives and removable disc cartridges. For longer term storage, files are transferred via Ethernet to the institute's VAX system where a 690 Mbyte disc drive is reserved for them. The data is then always accessible for analysis from any terminal and for graphic display from suitable graphics terminals throughout the building or, indeed, worldwide via the wider network. Magtape and tape cartridge are also present on the system for archival storage.