Software design for an inexpensive, practical, microcomputer-based DNA cytometry system.

Recent advances in digital electronics have made it possible to put together videophotometry systems capable of practical DNA ploidy measurements at a relatively modest cost. Such a system, based upon the IBM PC microcomputer and other "off-the-shelf" components, is now operational in our laboratory. This paper discusses the design considerations that went into the development of the software for this system. It examines the choices, constraints and tradeoffs involved in such a software engineering project and considers the practical implementation of image processing algorithms and a user-friendly interface. An overview is given of the modular, menu-driven software through which the system is controlled, along with a description of normal operational flow.