Patent ID: 6828567
Filing Date: 2004-12-07
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
A detection system for a bio-separation device having a plurality of separation channels in which bio-separation takes place simultaneously, comprising:a detection section along each separation channel defining a detection zone for analytes; a plurality of radiation sources, each comprising an LED associated with one of said separation channels; excitation means for introducing excitation radiation from the radiation sources at the detection zones as analytes pass the detection zones; detecting means for detecting radiation emissions from the detection zones, said detection means comprising a single detector associated with said plurality of radiation sources; control means for controlling the radiation sources and detecting means in a manner such that excitation radiation is introduced at the detection zone of each separation channel in a predetermined sequence and radiation emission from the detection zone of each separation channel is detected in a time staggered manner, wherein the control means controls the plurality of radiation sources to activate in successive pulses with respect to the radiation sources, and wherein the control means controls the synchronization of pulses of the radiation sources and detection sampling rate and period by taking into account the lag time in emitted radiation in adjacent separation channels, whereby desired detection for one of said separation channels covers a period when only the associated radiation source is on with respect to the detecting means.