In message <[log in to unmask]> Danny Thomas writes:
> Now I see adds in Science (eg 30 September, p2117) for the MRC 1024 with
> LaserSharp software.
>
> Maybe somebody knows:
>    Is this the standard software supplied with an MRC 1000?
>    Will it work on the MRC600?
>    exactly what are BioRad going with software?
>    is any development happening with the 600?
 
I called Mike Szulczewski (our local salesman) at BioRad for information; the
following is based on his answers (...I THINK I got this straight....)  The 1024
and the Lasersharp software apparently are inseparable--the new 24-bit frame
grabber requires new software to run it, and the new software requires the new
frame grabber.  What the new software does is allow simultaneous collection and
display of up to 3 "colors"--in the past they've been limited by their
frame-grabber to 2 colors at a time (although the laser, filters etc could
handle 3 colors).  The software also allows collection of images up to 1280 x
1024 pixels in size and incorporates elements of the Thruview package that has
been available in England (although not in the States)--thus, it does
projections (as before), but also true rotations, and some basic
volume-rendering.
 
Again, as I understand it, the Lasersharp package supports the basic Comos
features in terms of controling the filters, pinholes, etc.  Whether they've
incorporated ALL of the features of Comos was unclear.  The package is going to
be introduced at the Neuroscience Meeting in Miami (week of November 13); I'm
sure a bunch of us will see it at that time and will have more information then.
 
>    Is this the standard software supplied with an MRC 1000?
It will be as of January 1.
 
>    Will it work on the MRC600?
No.  It'll only work on an MRC1000 that's been upgraded to a 1024.  The upgrade
cost in the US is $15,000 (i.e. MRC1000 to 1024).
 
>    exactly what are BioRad going with software?
I'm not sure what this was supposed to mean--"Where are they going"?  Whatever
the case, it sounded to me as if all new development will be aimed at the
1000--the 600 is dead.
 
>    is any development happening with the 600?
No.
 
One other thing--he said that the product manager for the MRC1000 is Duncan
McMillan in the UK.  His FAX number is (44) 442 234 434.  He's the guy to go to
with questions.
 
Hope this helps--
 
Martin Wessendorf