Flow Cytometer

Product

A flow cytometer analyzes the physical and chemical characteristics of individual cells or particles as they pass through a laser beam in a fluid stream. By measuring how each cell scatters light and how it emits fluorescence when tagged with fluorescent markers, the instrument identifies, classifies and quantifies cell populations with high precision.

Together with a client leading in biomedical equipment, Trenz Electronic developed a compact, high-performance flow cytometer for demanding research environments in immunology, oncology, stem cell biology and clinical translational studies. The instrument automates sample handling, delivers precise multiparameter fluorescence measurements and supports reproducible cell analysis workflows. With ten optical channels, integrated sample preparation and intuitive software, the system enables researchers to quantify cell populations, monitor immune responses and characterize complex biological systems with high sensitivity and reliability.

Implementation

To meet the client’s requirements for precise, synchronized and low noise signal acquisition, Trenz Electronic designed a distributed data acquisition architecture centered around a powerful Kintex 325 FPGA on the host board. Sixteen remote ADC modules interface with photomultiplier tubes, each providing 10 MSPS at 16 bit resolution with exceptional low-noise performance. These modules connect to the host board using standard SATA cables, which carry data and synchronization signals through a custom protocol.

Time synchronized ADC conversion ensures deterministic operation across all photomultiplier channels, allowing the cytometer to capture fluorescence events with high temporal accuracy. The host board integrates USB 3.0 and Gigabit Ethernet for high-speed communication with the main system controller. The complete instrument combines the host board, ADC modules, an industrial PC, a 15-inch touch screen and the liquid handling system in a single device designed for laboratory use.

Impact

The project was executed in close collaboration between the client and Trenz Electronic. Trenz Electronic delivered the system architecture, hardware design and FPGA development, while the client contributed their deep expertise in cytometry, software development and manufacturing of biomedical equipment.

This collaboration showcases the same benefits seen in other successful Trenz Electronic projects. Combining Trenz Electronic’s long standing experience in high-speed mixed-signal design, FPGA development and reliable manufacturing with the client’s domain knowledge resulted in an outcome greater than the sum of its parts.

For the client, the result is not only a flow cytometer with excellent performance. More importantly, the partnership with Trenz Electronic accelerated development, reduced project risk, streamlined manufacturing and created a forward-looking platform ready for future product generations.