automation Automation was performed on a Tecan Genesis Model 200 robotic workstation (TRP) starting from either the PCR amplicon formation or from isolated genomic DNA and continuing through data analysis. Samples used were a subset of the 225 used in the initial manual testing. Instructions for the automation program were written with Gemini software (Tecan). Initialization and launch of the bead-reading protocol on the Luminex 100 was performed automatically by use of a custom image-recognition and command-scripting program written in Java. After the read, the results were remotely analyzed by MultiCode Analysis software. Genomic DNA was purified manually before automation as described above. The TRP was fitted with the low-volume eight-channel dispense pipette system, TeStack, to supply disposable tips, a MJ Research thermocycler equipped with remote Alpha docks with Power Bonnet, and a robotic manipulator arm. Liquid reagents and disposable tips were also placed on the deck before runs were started. Reactions and additions for the automated process were the same as those described for the manual method unless noted. Reactions were performed in low-profile hard-skirted polypropylene well microplates, which allowed the robotic arm to grip and move the plates as needed. Each reaction was overlaid with 15 L of light mineral oil (Sigma) to prevent evaporation during thermal cycling. The robotic manipulator was used to transfer the plates to and from the thermocycler block and the Luminex 100 mounted off deck. Initialization and launch of the bead-reading protocol on the Luminex 100 were performed automatically by use of a custom image-recognition and command-scripting pro-gram written in Java. After bead-reading of each reaction, the results were analyzed by the MultiCode Analysis software as described above.