Abstract: An automated phaco pack identification system in accordance with the present invention generally includes a cartridge or cassette assembly for handling irrigation and aspiration fluids to and from a surgical handpiece, a control console having a drawer or other means for receiving and engaging the cartridge assembly, a computer, and control apparatus, in communication with the computer, for regulating irrigation and aspiration fluid flow. Importantly, the present invention also includes, for example, a bar code element disposed on the cartridge and a bar code reader disposed in the control console for providing an active interface between the cartridge and the computer. The communication feature functions to automatically provide cartridge characteristics, such as serial number and history of the cartridge, through the computer and to a visual display monitor for retrieval by a user of the present invention.