Abstract: Methods for identifying feature boundary pixels are provided. In general, the subject methods involve evaluating a pixel signal to identify any difference in amplitude between a first part of the signal and a second part of the signal. If the difference is significant, the pixel signal may be indicated as a pixel representing a feature boundary. Also provided are systems and programming for performing the subject methods, and an array scanner containing these systems and programming.

Abstract: Methods for producing data for a partially saturated pixel produced during scanning of a chemical array are provided. In general, an analog signal for a partially saturated pixel is sampled to obtain a set of non-saturated digital signals and a set of saturated digital signals. The saturated digital signals are then processed to produce data for the pixel. Also provided are computer program products comprising programming for performing the subject methods, and a chemical array scanner containing this programming. The invention finds use in a variety of different applications, including both genomics and proteomics applications.

Abstract: Methods for evaluating a pixel signal produced during scanning of a chemical array are provided. In general, the subject methods involve identifying a set of conformant digital signals for a pixel, and integrating those signals. Also provided are systems and programming for performing the subject methods, and an array scanner containing these systems and programming.

Abstract: Methods for evaluating a pixel signal produced during scanning of a chemical array are provided. In general, the methods involve producing at least two analog signals for a pixel using a multi-gain signal detection system, integrating at least one of these signals, and outputting data representing the pixel. Also provided are systems and computer program products for performing the subject methods, and an array scanner containing these systems and program products.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed involving a linear actuator motor such as a voice coil motor, including a driver for the motor, powered by a power supply. A failure of one or more of the power outputs of the power supply used by the linear actuator motor and the driver is determined. Alternatively, or in addition thereto, energy in the linear actuator motor outside a predetermined range is determined. The power supply or the power supply outputs are caused to shut down based on the failure of the power outputs and/or energy determined in the linear actuator motor.

Abstract: A method, apparatus, and computer program product for reading fluorescence signals from an array of chemical moieties (such as different sequence peptides or polynucleotides, for example different DNA sequences). In the method the spatial sequence of scanned locations need not be the same as the temporal sequence. For example, a later illuminated line may be spatially closer to an earlier illuminated line than is a temporally intervening illuminated line.