We require samples to be allocated a unique and short lab identifier for the practicality of labelling vessels during wet chemical processing, and due to space limitations of the mass spectrometry software when entering sample identifiers prior to analysis. The database will also require a number of fields in which all relevant sample and analytical information can be entered while allocating the lab identifier. This feature is required so the database can be interrogated at any time according to any specific field or combination of fields. This capability is important to retrospectively track sample information as well as sample throughput for each project and user.
We would envisage the new database to have the capacity to allocate five digit identifiers (2 alphas and 3 numerals, e.g. AA000). Our current system comprises a user interface program that allocates lab numbers as information is entered via a series of drop-drown boxes, radio buttons, and text fields, which concurrently writes that information to a Microsoft Access database file. This interface enables users to freely collect numbers, add or modify information, and interrogate the database, but without directly accessing the data storage file hence ensuring its integrity. A similar configuration of data fields as well as the separation of the user interface system from data storage would be envisaged.