Abstract: The present invention relates to methods, devices and systems for associating consumable data with an assay consumable used in a biological assay. Provided are assay systems and associated consumables, wherein the assay system adjusts one or more steps of an assay protocol based on consumable data specific for that consumable. Various types of consumable data are described, as well as methods of using such data in the conduct of an assay by an assay system. The present invention also relates to consumables (e.g., kits and reagent containers), software, data deployable bundles, computer-readable media, loading carts, instruments, systems, and methods, for performing automated biological assays.

Abstract: The subject invention is directed to a radiating cable comprising at least one center conductor, a dielectric core surrounding said conductor and a plurality of radiating sheaths disposed in coaxial relationship to said at least one center conductor along the length of said dielectric core. The cable design minimizes attenuation of the internal TEM signal and reduces the environmental sensitivity of the cable.