Abstract
An off-line data processing system for a clinical chemistry laboratory serving a 1000-bedded teaching hospital is described. This system is based upon an IBM 360/40 computer and an SMA 12/60 multichannel analyser which is coupled through a Technilogger II to an automatic keypunch. This covers 30% of all the tests: data for other AutoAnalyzers has to be punched on to separate cards manually along with the patient identification. Data are matched with patient requisitions which have already been keypunched and entered into the computer. Advantages include reduction of manual transcription of data, the automatic production of two ward reports a day and a cumulative patient report daily and weekly, and automatic quality control programs. A permanent record is kept on magnetic tape.