CASE STUDY: The modified Infinity is the ideal solution for one of the world’s most popular automated colony counting systems

By Lewis Brown on May 19th, 2021

The Organisation

Synbiosis is the manufacturer and supplier of the world’s most popular automated colony counting systems. With over 25 years of experience, Synbiosis’ colony counters are tried and trusted by microbiologists worldwide.

The Atik Integration

Following analysis of the requirements of the project, a customised version of the Atik Infinity camera was integrated into the Protos 3 system. The Protos 3 is a colony counter that automatically identifies species from detection of the colony colour, in addition to the more standard function of counting.

Due to the demands of the application, the sensor of the Infinity camera was changed from the default Sony ICX825 to the Sony ICX205. Additionally, in order to fit neatly into the final system, the form factor of the camera was changed. This change allowed for the addition of mechanical features such as extra threaded holes. Furthermore, the finish was also customised with a nickel plating due to the requirements of the system.

As a result of the modified Atik Infinity camera, complete with the Sony ICX205 CCD sensor, the Protos 3 captures true to life colour images, and accurately detects and counts colonies as small as 43 microns. The Protos 3 also boasts a unique LED lighting system alongside software that allows for the analysis of an infinite number of colonies on one plate in seconds. This feature in particular helps to make it an ideal system for busy food and environmental microbiology laboratories.