What is the recommended PC for running VENUS one?

The recommended PC to run VENUS one is an Intel CoreTM 2 duo (2.33GHz / 1333MHz) with 2 or 4 GB RAM, 80GB SATA drive and a 3D Graphic card (i.e. Intel® GMA3100 or better) with DirectX 9.0 support.  This is what we use to write the software/methods.  In the Operators Manual which comes with the system, you can find the minimal requirements under which VENUS one is working...

If I make a method in the Action Editor, can I add other commands not listed in the Action Editor?

Other commands can be added to the method by clicking on the Method Editor.  In actuality, the Action Editor is a simplied way of creating a script.  The underlying script is in the same format that can be used by the Method Editor.  However, commands added in the Method Editor might not be accessible at the Action Editor level and will appear as simplified icons in the diagram.

In the new 3D view, can I copy labware?

Yes, you simply select the plate, press the ctrl button and drag the plate's copy to the desired position.

Is there a way to 'decode' the labware names?

Yes. A precise explanation on how we generate labware names is given here.

I have a HEPA hood but I can't see the commands to control it in the toolbox?

It is necessary to first select the HxFan (aka HEPA hood) in the deck editor equipment menu and add it to the deck.  It will not appear in the deck layout but this action will inform Venus one that you have a hood and wish to control the hood in your method.  Once you do that, the appropriate commands will appear in the Toolbox.

What information will the HAMILTON contact person need to support you?

In case an error in a method can not be fixed by using the online help, the manual or this FAQ section, contact the HAMILTON represenatative. The waiting time for an answer will be reduced when you prepare the following data:

1. a clear explanation of the error (what happens exactly)
2. a screenshot of the error dialog (if possible)
3. Information about the used Vector/VENUS version (use version info in START -> Programs --> hamilton)
4. Information about the used Operating system / service packs (Start --> System control --> System)
5. a method trace file (C:\Program files\HAMILTON\LogFiles)
6. a communication port trace file (C:\Program files\HAMILTON\LogFiles)
7. a package of the method
8. additional data to run the method package (worklists etc)

All this helps to shorten the response time, solve the correct error and improve methods and software.

Click here to submit your question to the Hamilton Robotics support staff.  We want to try to answer your question and add it to our FAQ list so others can speed up their work also.

Last updated: 18.09.2008