Introducing AMFTools – Enhanced Control for Advanced Microfluidics (AMF) Devices

We are excited to announce the release of AMFTools, a comprehensive Python package that offers unparalleled control over AMF devices. This new version, released on November 15, 2023, includes several upgrades and enhancements designed to streamline and optimize the operation of our RVM FS (fast switch), RVM LP (low power), SPM, and LSPone products.

Broad Impact and Benefits:

• For Researchers and Scientists: AMFTools bring a new level of efficiency to your lab work. Its precise control capabilities reduce experimental errors, save valuable time, and accelerate innovation in critical fields like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and environmental science. This means more successful outcomes and breakthroughs in less time.
• For Automation and Efficiency: By automating routine tasks with setter, getter, and control methods, AMFTools significantly cuts down on manual work. This translates to streamlined workflows, improved productivity, and more time to focus on high-value activities.
• For Educational Institutions: The library’s intuitive design is a powerful educational tool, making microfluidics more accessible to students. It enhances learning by simplifying complex concepts, thereby enabling students and researchers to achieve success in their projects and studies more efficiently.
• For Industrial Applications: In industrial settings, AMFTools’ robust control mechanism ensures high reliability and precision. This is crucial for maintaining consistent quality and performance in production processes. The ability to parallelize and synchronize pump controls also optimizes operations, leading to increased throughput and better resource utilization.

Key Features of AMFTools:

• Seamless Integration: The library facilitates control of AMF products via a serial connection protocol. You can list all your connected devices and connect to it using serial port or serial number.
• Compatibility: Compatible with Python 3.8 and higher, and tested on Windows 11 with Python 3.11. Future updates will extend support to other operating systems.
• User-Friendly License: This proprietary software is freely available to all AMF customers, underlining our commitment to providing value-added services to our client base.
• Advanced Functionality: The library includes a variety of functions to connect, disconnect, and send commands to devices, as well as specific methods for setting and retrieving device parameters.

AMFTools exemplifies our commitment to innovation and customer service, providing our clients with sophisticated tools for efficient device management. This enables them to focus on the more intricate and demanding aspects of their projects.

Get Started with Ease: Python Examples to Guide You

To enhance your experience with AMFTools, we have prepared three Python code examples that demonstrate the library’s capabilities. These examples are designed to help you get started quickly and gain a better understanding of our code and products:

• Retrieve Data – AMF-get_all_data.py: This script is designed to make data retrieval straightforward. It connects to any AMF device (RVM, SPM, LSPOne) and collects a comprehensive set of data, including device status, valve positions, and other vital metrics. This example is ideal for monitoring and diagnostics, ensuring you have all the necessary information at your fingertips.

• Basic Functions with SPM & LSPOne – AMF-pump_with_SPM.py: This example demonstrates how to control basic functions of the SPM and LSPOne devices. It includes code snippets for adjusting acceleration, deceleration, and speed, setting the syringe size, and executing core actions like pumping, dispensing, and volume control. It’s particularly useful for routine laboratory procedures, allowing for precise fluid handling.

• Synchronize and Parallelize Pumps – AMF-synchronized_pump.py (updated 15.04.24): This advanced example shows how to operate two SPM or LSPOne pumps in sync or parallel. It provides the framework for coordinated control, enabling simultaneous operations. This is especially beneficial in experiments requiring synchronized fluid handling across multiple devices. The code is structured to be scalable, allowing the addition of more devices as needed.

Each example is provided as a downloadable .py file, ensuring you can implement these solutions seamlessly with your AMF products

For more information, please contact AMF.

Embrace the future of microfluidic control with AMFTools!