Batch Processing allows you to analyze many data files consecutively in a single layout without having to set up new plots for each file. Batch processing also gives you the ability to print, save, or export your layout and statistics in many different formats, including a PowerPoint presentation, a Word document, an Excel spreadsheet, a PDF file, or a text file.

 

Batch processing applies the analysis on the layout to every item in the Data List. During batch processing, FCS Express automatically performs a Data→Change File on All Objects→Next File command to systematically increment all the data files in your layout. The items will be incremented in their order in the Data List by the increment value specified in the batch processing options, or the currently active panel.

 

Changing the files during a batch process is called iteration. During iteration, the FCS files on every plot will be incremented and tokens will be evaluated.

 

You can choose not to increment a particular overlay by disabling the Change data file during Next/Prev/Batch option for histograms , spectrum plots, or 2D plots. For example, you may choose not to increment a control file in one overlay, while allowing iteration in the other overlays. In addition, you can choose not to increment a particular token function by disabling the Change data file during Next/Prev/Batch function for token Data Sources.

 

FCS Express allows you to define batch processes that can be performed during iteration. These processes are divided into Action or Report processes:

 

•Action Processes

 

These processes allow you to print and/or save the layout in various formats. The following lists all print/save processes:

 

oPrint

oSave Layout

oSave to PowerPoint

oSave as PDF

oSave as Picture

 

 

•Report Processes

 

These processes allow you to export information from your layout to:

 

oMicrosoft Excel

oMicrosoft Word

oA PDF file

oA text file

oDe Novo Software Data Services (DDS)

 

The information you can export includes plots (as pictures), statistics (as columns, cells, or text), and tokens (i.e., the token information displayed in the text box). Once you have chosen where to export the data by adding a Report, you assign items to transfer to that Report.

 

There are four distinct steps to using Batch Processing properly after you have set up your analysis layout:

 

1. Add the data sets you wish to analyze, in the correct order, to the Data List.

2. Add Batch Action and Report processes to the Batch Processing Action Screen.

3. Specify the Batch Processing Options.

4. Run the Batch Process.