Automated Liquid Scintillation Counting Using a Time-Shared Computer

Abstract

The use of a time-shared computer with specially designed codes in an analytical program employing liquid scintillation spectrometers with card, paper tape, and magnetic tape output substantially reduces the effort required to process large numbers of low level, beta-emitting samples. Automatic data collection and use of the computer by noncomputer trained users is the emphasis of this system. Features include raw data validity checks, calculation of calibration and quench curves, total sample errors, data sorting, half-life corrections, CRT graphical output, and computer-independent input formats. The methods are generally applicable to other general purpose computers using Fortran IV whether time shared or not.