Importance

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Abstract

A sample identification system that may be used to track and correlate a sample container in a laboratory analyzer or the like is set forth. The exemplary laboratory analyzer employs at least one carrier that supports at least one sample tube. The sample identification system includes a first optical reader that has a first field of view that is sufficient to expose the first optical reader to targeted visual indicia that identifies the carrier. The system further includes a second optical reader that has a second field of view that is sufficient to expose the second optical reader to targeted visual indicia identifying the sample tube held by the carrier. One or more decoders may be used to extract the identification information from the targeted visual indicia. The identification information then may be provided to a process controller, which may use the information for one or more predetermined purposes. One such purpose may be to use the identification information derived from the first and second readers to direct manipulation of the content of the sample tube. In various embodiments, the system may employ one or more masks to enhance the accuracy of the identification process. Further, the system may be adapted to replace a legacy identification system of an existing apparatus.

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First Claim