PP LactiCyte HD Somatic Cell Counter
| Brand | PP |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Model | LactiCyte HD |
| Detection Time | <60 s per run (with 4 chips) |
| Measurement Range | 0.1–10,000,000 SCC/mL |
| Sample Volume | 100 µL |
| Throughput | 4 samples per run |
| Cell Size Detection Range | 5–25 µm (optimized for mammary epithelial cells and leukocytes) |
| Accuracy | ±5% at 100,000 SCC/mL |
| Carryover | 0% |
| Operating Temperature | 10–35 °C |
| Power Supply | 100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz |
| Power Consumption | <50 W |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 38 × 26 × 30 cm |
| Net Weight | 10 kg |
| Compliance | ASTM D7952-21, ISO 13366-1:2015, IDF 148:2017, compliant with EU Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 for raw milk quality monitoring |
Overview
The PP LactiCyte HD Somatic Cell Counter is a fully automated, fluorescence-based digital imaging system engineered for high-precision somatic cell count (SCC) analysis in raw and processed milk from bovine, caprine, ovine, and buffalo sources. It operates on the principle of dual-channel fluorescent staining—using a DNA-binding dye (e.g., SYTOX Green) combined with a viability marker—to selectively label nucleated somatic cells (primarily leukocytes and mammary epithelial cells) while excluding bacterial cells and debris. Captured images are processed via a high-resolution CCD sensor (12-bit dynamic range, 5-megapixel effective resolution), enabling pixel-level morphometric segmentation and classification based on size (5–25 µm), intensity, and shape metrics. The instrument delivers traceable, GLP-aligned results in under 60 seconds per 4-sample run, eliminating subjectivity inherent in manual direct microscopic SCC (DMSCC) methods while maintaining full correlation per IDF 148:2017 and ISO 13366-1:2015 validation protocols.
Key Features
- Fully automated sample loading and analysis—no manual dilution or staining required
- Integrated dual-wavelength fluorescence excitation (470 nm / 530 nm) and emission filtering optimized for milk matrix interference suppression
- Real-time image acquisition and AI-assisted cell recognition with adaptive thresholding for variable fat/protein content
- User-configurable alarm and action thresholds (e.g., 200,000 SCC/mL for Grade A raw milk; 400,000 SCC/mL for EU compliance)
- On-board thermal printer and USB 2.0 interface for audit-ready data export (CSV, PDF, XML)
- Self-calibrating optical path with daily QC verification using NIST-traceable reference beads
- Robust architecture designed for dairy laboratory environments: IP20-rated enclosure, fan-cooled thermal management, and vibration-damped optical stage
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The LactiCyte HD accepts raw, pasteurized, homogenized, and standardized milk without pre-filtration or centrifugation. It is validated for use with bovine, caprine, ovine, and buffalo milk—including high-fat (>6%) and high-protein (>4.2%) variants—across temperature ranges of 10–35 °C. All measurement algorithms and calibration curves are aligned to international reference standards: ASTM D7952-21 (Standard Test Method for Determination of Somatic Cells in Raw Milk by Flow Cytometry), ISO 13366-1:2015 (Milk — Enumeration of Somatic Cells — Part 1: Fluorescence Microscopy Method), and IDF 148:2017 (International Dairy Federation Standard for Somatic Cell Count). The system supports 21 CFR Part 11-compliant user access control, electronic signatures, and immutable audit trails when paired with optional LactiSoft v4.2 LIMS integration.
Software & Data Management
LactiSoft v4.2 firmware provides a Windows-based GUI with multilingual support (EN/FR/DE/ES/IT), configurable report templates, and batch-level statistical process control (SPC) charts (X-bar/R, CUSUM). Data files include embedded metadata: operator ID, instrument serial number, calibration timestamp, ambient temperature/humidity logs, and per-chip image thumbnails. Export formats meet FAIR data principles—machine-readable CSV with SI units, PDF-A for archival, and XML conforming to ISO/IEC 11179 metadata registry schema. Optional cloud sync enables secure, encrypted transfer to enterprise dairy quality platforms (e.g., Tetra Pak DairySuite, GEA DairyConnect) via TLS 1.2+ API endpoints.
Applications
- Routine SCC screening in dairy farm collection centers and receiving stations
- Quality assurance testing during pasteurization line monitoring and tank-to-tank reconciliation
- Research applications in mastitis pathogenesis studies and selective breeding programs
- Regulatory compliance reporting for USDA Grade A, EU Commission Regulation (EC) No 853/2004, and Codex Alimentarius STAN 206-1999
- Validation of alternative SCC methods (e.g., flow cytometry, impedance counting) against reference DMSCC
- Training and proficiency testing for veterinary diagnostic laboratories accredited to ISO/IEC 17025
FAQ
What regulatory standards does the LactiCyte HD comply with?
It meets ASTM D7952-21, ISO 13366-1:2015, IDF 148:2017, and supports documentation requirements for FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and EU Annex 11.
Can it analyze milk with >6% fat content?
Yes—the optical algorithm includes fat globule masking and auto-compensates for light scattering up to 12% fat (tested per IDF 148 Annex B).
Is daily calibration required?
A quick 90-second QC check using supplied calibration beads is recommended before first use each day; full recalibration is performed annually or after service.
Does it require consumables beyond the disposable counting chips?
No reagents, stains, or filters are needed—the chips contain pre-deposited lyophilized fluorophore and stabilization matrix.
How is carryover prevented between samples?
Each chip is single-use and sealed; the fluidic path uses air-gap segmentation and positive-pressure purging—validated to yield 0% carryover per ISO 13366-1 Annex D.

