Definitions of some words and terms used in automated analysis. Prepared for the study group on automation and scientific and technical committee of the association of clinical biochemists

Drift correction--a comparative evaluation of some alternatives

Three drift correction methods are described. The results obtained from computer simulation of these methods and their application to raw data obtained from a survey of multichannel continuous-flow analysers are discussed, with particular reference to the effects of each method on analytical precision and accuracy, and on between-analyser variation. A geometrically derived method of drift correction was found to be the most satisfactory.

A limited protocol for assessment of within-batch performance of multichannel analysers

An experimental protocol is described to evaluate rapidly the performance of biochemical analysers. A trial in which this protocol was applied to 15 multichannel continuous-flow analysers is described and the results are discussed. Some consideration is given to the effects of applying a commonly-used drift correction procedure to the raw data, and values of within-batch standard deviation are proposed which may be useful in assessing performance.