Automated reading of the multipoint inoculated antibiotic sensitivity test

Abstract

A television-computer system is described which scans sets of macro-colonies on agar plates to determine sensitivity of bacteria to selected antibiotics. Decisions are based on a single reflectance measurement within the macro-colony. Results are given of a comparative trial between the machine and six experienced human observers. No significant difference of performance was found, and the machine offers advantages when performing large numbers of tests.