Crystal Tray Scoring on Your Phone
A common method for tracking protein crystallization experiments is by using a scoring sheet. A scoring sheet allows you to track how a particular condition evolves overtime. If you are looking for a scoring sheet here is a nice compilation.
How about scoring your trays on a computer? I have been resist to scoring (as well as a lab notebook) on a desktop computer due to convenience, a notebook is easy to carry around and its durable compared to electronic equipment.
What about using your phone? A phone is easy to transport and fits in your pocket which can protect it from lab mishaps. My guess is that many scientists already carry their phone around in the lab.
You can now score your trays with an i-phone or Pocket PC and there is also a desktop version. Do you think phones will become a popular method of tracking scientific experiments?
Sili
July 11th, 2010 at 4:50 PM #
I love that idea. I’ve dropped out of science altogether, but I’d have loved to be able to check up on datacollections on the road.
Of course, if I had the chops for it, I’m sure it’s possible from home to log in the computer in charge and start doing the datareduction on 25% of the reflections to check if it’s the right compound, but it’d be more fun from a phone, I’m sure.
Paul
July 14th, 2010 at 11:44 AM #
Hi Sean,
Just noticed your post… thanks very much! I also have developed some Android apps which some readers might find useful, so if anyone is interested in being an alpha tester (or helping me develop it further) please get in touch.
Sean
July 17th, 2010 at 7:47 PM #
Paul,
Great to hear from you again! I have been stoked to see you working hard on the site and creating these tools! Thanks again.