Abstract: A sample collection container and a cartridge system employ reagent bodies having reagents confined by a restraining agent. The sample collection container comprises one or more reagent bodies, each having one or more reagents confined by a restraining agent. The restraining agent is capable of being broken down to release the reagents which are dispersed through the restraining agent. The cartridge system comprises a reagent component for storing reagents and a processing component for processing the reagents in an assay. At least one of the components includes one or more reagent bodies, each having one or more reagents confined by a restraining agent capable of being broken down. The reagent component and the processing component are configured to be coupled together to form a cartridge, the reagent component and/or the processing component having at least one compartment to accept waste from the assay.

Abstract: A synchronization interface device to be used in conjunction with equipment with its own internally generated synchronization signal to allow harmonization with other external video signals from other devices to facilitate the manipulation of these signals, including means for separating the odd field from the internal and external signals and gate means producing a unique output state when both signals are in synchronization and a different output inhibiting the passage of the internally generated horizontal drive to means for comparing it against the external horizontal component so that the output from this comparison is fed to voltage oscillator means which produces an output in the 14 MHz range that is fed back to the slave equipment (AVE). If the gate means do not produce the unique output, the device experiences a drift until it locks in synchronization.