Funke 454 Digital Colony Counter
| Brand | Funke |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Model | 454 |
| Display | 5-digit LCD (0–99999) |
| Magnification | 2× |
| Counting Area | 145 mm diameter (precision to 0.1 cm²) |
| Base Options | Black or white background |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 250 × 230 × 95 mm |
| Weight | 1.5 kg |
Overview
The Funke 454 Digital Colony Counter is a precision-engineered, manually operated instrument designed for rapid, reliable enumeration of microbial colonies on standard Petri dishes (typically 90 mm and 100 mm diameter). It operates on the principle of visual colony recognition augmented by ergonomic human–instrument interaction—leveraging high-contrast illumination, optical magnification, and tactile electronic counting—rather than automated image analysis. Unlike fully automated colony imaging systems, the Funke 454 delivers consistent, audit-ready manual counts without algorithmic interpretation bias, making it especially suitable for regulated environments where traceability of individual counting decisions is required. Its robust mechanical architecture and CMOS-based digital circuitry ensure long-term stability, low power consumption, and immunity to electromagnetic interference common in shared laboratory environments.
Key Features
- 2× fixed optical magnification with adjustable fluorescent illumination for enhanced colony contrast against black or white backgrounds
- 5-digit LED display (character height: 13 mm) with instant reset functionality (0–99999 range), supporting sequential or batch-wise counting protocols
- 145 mm diameter counting stage accommodating standard agar plates with calibrated grid overlay (resolution: 0.1 cm² per increment)
- Compact footprint (250 × 230 × 95 mm) and lightweight design (1.5 kg) for benchtop deployment in QC labs, clinical microbiology units, and teaching laboratories
- EMI-resistant CMOS logic board with low-voltage operation and extended component lifetime under continuous use
- Ergonomic stylus probe with momentary-contact switch optimized for repetitive, fatigue-minimized operation over extended shifts
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Funke 454 supports all standard microbiological culture media solidified in polystyrene or glass Petri dishes (90 mm, 100 mm, and 150 mm variants with optional adapter rings). It is routinely employed in procedures aligned with ISO 4833-1:2013 (microbiology of food and animal feeding stuffs — horizontal method for the enumeration of microorganisms), ASTM D4457 (standard test method for determination of total aerobic bacteria in water), and USP (Microbiological Examination of Nonsterile Products). While the device itself does not generate electronic records, its manual count output may be transcribed into LIMS or paper-based GLP/GMP-compliant worksheets with full operator signature and timestamp annotation—ensuring alignment with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when integrated into documented workflows.
Software & Data Management
The Funke 454 is a standalone hardware counter with no embedded software, firmware updates, or network connectivity. This architecture eliminates cybersecurity risks, validation overhead, and software lifecycle management burdens associated with computer-dependent systems. All count data are generated manually and recorded externally—either in laboratory notebooks, printed log sheets, or validated electronic systems. The absence of proprietary drivers or vendor-specific applications ensures seamless interoperability with existing institutional IT infrastructure and simplifies 21 CFR Part 11 compliance through procedural controls rather than technical ones. Calibration verification is performed using NIST-traceable grid standards; no software-based calibration routines are required.
Applications
- Quantitative microbial load assessment in food safety testing (e.g., aerobic plate counts in dairy, meat, and produce samples)
- Environmental monitoring of pharmaceutical cleanrooms per ISO 14644-1 and EU GMP Annex 1
- Water quality analysis in municipal and industrial wastewater treatment facilities
- Stability-indicating assays during biopharmaceutical product shelf-life studies
- Teaching microbiology techniques—including dilution plating, serial enumeration, and colony morphology correlation—in undergraduate and graduate curricula
- Quality control of raw materials and finished products in cosmetics and personal care manufacturing (ISO 18416, ISO 21148)
FAQ
Is the Funke 454 compatible with 150 mm Petri dishes?
Yes, with optional stainless-steel adapter rings (sold separately), the stage accommodates 150 mm plates while maintaining uniform illumination and magnification geometry.
Does the instrument require routine calibration?
No formal calibration is mandated; however, daily verification using a certified 100-point grid slide (NIST SRM 2820 or equivalent) is recommended per internal SOPs and ISO/IEC 17025 guidelines.
Can the counting base be cleaned with ethanol or disinfectants?
Yes—the anodized aluminum base and tempered glass counting surface are chemically resistant to 70% ethanol, isopropanol, and quaternary ammonium solutions; avoid abrasive cleaners or prolonged exposure to sodium hypochlorite.
Is there a service manual or technical support available outside the U.S.?
Global technical documentation and authorized service partner referrals are provided through Funke’s international distributor network; all service interventions follow ISO 9001-certified repair protocols.
