Abstract: Methods for determining the number of viable spores in a sample are provided. In practicing the subject methods, aliquots of a sample are stained with a combination of a permeant and an impermeant dye both before and after a germination step, and then analyzed by flow cytometry. By comparing the results obtained before and after germination, the number of viable spores in the sample is readily determined. Also provided are kits and systems for use in practicing the subject methods. The subject methods and compositions find use in a variety of different applications where it is desirable to determine the number of viable spores in a sample.

Abstract: A motor is electrically coupled to a power source through a motor starter. The motor is selectively operated by a relay to connect and disconnect the power source to the motor. A counter accumulates a count of motor failures and produces an inhibit signal should the frequency of occurrence of such motor failures exceed a given level. The relay is operated by an inhibit signal to cause the motor starter to disconnect the power source from the motor.

Abstract: A motor is electrically coupled to a power source through a motor starter. The motor starter is selectively operated by a relay to connect and disconnect the power source to the motor. A counter is set whenever a select motor temperature condition exceeds a predetermined level to provide an indication of the number of motor starts. The relay is operated to cause the motor starter to disconnect the power source from the motor whenever the motor fails to run continuously during a given time period following a predetermined number of starts.