Find quick answers about our lateral flow readers – from choosing the right device and setting up your test to connectivity, customization and regulatory support. Simply type a keyword or select a topic below.
Happy to help
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting started
Signals, dyes, test formats and how our camera-based readers work.
What are your rapid test readers designed for?
Our readers are universal instruments for evaluating lateral flow tests. You can use them for quality control or as an individually customized part of your test kit.
Which readers are available?
The Lumi Flex reads reflective and color-change tests, the Lumi Flex Fluo is specialized in Europium fluorescence assays. For new developments, the Lumi Pro (multiple detection technologies) and the portable Lumi Go are available as optical analyzer platforms. Lateral flow instruments
How do I find out if my test is compatible?
Simply send us a picture of your test and, if available, a few details. We’ll quickly tell you whether it works with our readers. Check your test
Do you offer your own assays?
No. Our readers are designed to evaluate assays developed by you or produced through contract manufacturing.
What does a reader cost?
Pricing depends on the device and configuration. Check prices
Who can I contact for more information?
Your key account manager is happy to help. Contact us
Readers & detection
Signals, dyes, test formats and how our camera-based readers work.
Which signals can be detected?
Fluorescence as well as colorimetric signals, e.g. from gold or latex particles.
Lumi Flex or Lumi Flex Fluo – which reader is right for my assay?
Choose the Lumi Flex for colorimetric tests, e.g. with gold or latex labels. Choose the Lumi Flex Fluo for fluorescence assays with Europium chelates or similar dyes. Lumi Flex Lumi Flex Fluo
Does the Lumi Flex Fluo work with dyes other than Europium?
Yes. It uses a 365 nm UV excitation and a camera filter that rejects light below 600 nm. This makes it suitable for Europium and other similar fluorescent dyes such as quantum dots.
How many channels are available?
That depends on the device. Fluorescence and colorimetric modes can be combined.
How do your readers capture a test?
Our readers are camera-based: they take an image of the complete strip or cassette. You can define multiple regions of interest (ROI) per test, so several test and control lines can be evaluated at once. The Lumi Flex offers a measurement area of 50 × 90 mm.
Do I need a specific cartridge or strip?
No. The universal strip holder fits any strip type. Special drawers are available on request.
Software & test development
Setting up your test with Lateral Flow Studio and Imaging Studio.
How do I configure the reader for my test?
Use our Lateral Flow Studio software, which is included in the starter kit. Free remote support is part of the package. Developer tools
What does a method file contain?
A method tells the reader how to read and interpret your test, for example:
- number and position of the lines
- signal interpretation and calibration parameters
- calculation of the final result
Each test line can be processed independently.
What is Imaging Studio?
Imaging Studio is the starting point for integrating your test on our camera-based readers. In three steps you define the cassette dimensions, set the regions of interest and extract the peak profiles, which are then quantified in Lateral Flow Studio.
Can I re-evaluate measurements with different settings?
Yes. Lateral Flow Studio lets you recalculate raw data with different settings and algorithms to optimize your results.
Do I need a PC to work with the reader?
The reader runs standalone. Only the method files are created on a PC.
How do I upload a method to the reader?
Either via a PC connection or simply by scanning a 2D barcode.
Measurement & quality
Result types, throughput, reproducibility and long-term stability.
Can I obtain quantitative results?
Yes. Qualitative, semi-quantitative and quantitative methods are all supported, including cut-off values and calibration curves.
How many tests can be measured at once?
Up to 5 strips, each with up to 19 lines in two channels.
How reproducible are the measurements?
Our readers achieve very low device-to-device variation thanks to internal reference material and automatic self-calibration. The exact values depend on the reader model – see the specifications of Lumi Flex and Lumi Flex Fluo. Please note that the reproducibility of your assay itself must be determined separately.
How do the readers stay accurate over time?
Each reader contains internal reference material for calibration and self-adjustment. In the Lumi Flex Fluo, a non-bleaching fluorescence reference continuously monitors performance.
What is Lumi Control?
Lumi Control are reference tools that let you verify that your reader’s sensitivity stays consistent – ideal for production monitoring and long-term checks. Lumi Control-R is for reflectance readers, Lumi Control-F for fluorescence readers. They are relative references, not absolute calibration standards. Lumi Control
Connectivity & data
Interfaces, data management with Lumi Connect and IT security.
Which interfaces are available?
USB and Ethernet. Wireless connectivity is available on request.
How can I manage results from several readers?
With our Lumi Connect software. It is available as a server & client solution for larger, multi-user environments, or as all-in-one software on a single workstation for smaller labs. Lumi Connect
Can results be sent to a LIS or HIS?
Yes. Lumi Connect transmits results via HL7, POCT1-A or JSON and supports cloud and middleware solutions. Further protocols and bi-directional connectivity (receiving orders) are available on request.
How is data security ensured?
Lumi Connect uses state-of-the-art data encryption, mTLS authentication and flexible user management. Regular cybersecurity checks ensure ongoing security and compliance.
How are readers updated?
Connected readers can be updated with new instrument software via Lumi Connect. Because instrument and connectivity software are separated, changes to the connectivity don’t require revalidation of the instrument.
Customization & manufacturing
From starter kit to series production of your branded reader.
What is the starter kit?
The starter kit is the easiest way to get to know our readers. It includes a series-production reader plus developer software and training – for R&D, validation and test development. Starter kit
What can be customized?
Almost everything, inside and out – for example:
- detection and excitation wavelength, evaluation algorithms
- GUI workflow and branded user interface
- housing color, logo and a drawer for your cassette
- connectivity and accessories
How long does it take to customize a Lumi reader?
Depending on the scope, the first customized devices are typically ready within 2 to 4 months.
Which applications can a customized Lumi reader be used for?
Almost any: human diagnostics, veterinary diagnostics, food safety, biodefense and environmental analysis. Applications & technologies
Can you also manufacture my customized reader?
Yes. We produce small to mid series of typically 10 to 300 units per batch – ideal for clinical validation, pilot launches and early market entry – and prepare the transfer to high-volume production. Small-series manufacturing
Regulatory & support
Registration, quality management, training and downloads.
Can the customized reader be registered under IVDR and FDA?
Yes. We provide the required device documentation and support you through the registration process. Regulatory advice
Are your readers developed under a certified quality management system?
Yes. All development and manufacturing activities follow a quality management system certified to ISO 13485:2016. Technical documentation
What support do I get after purchase?
Every customized system includes free remote training, troubleshooting, a dedicated project manager, ongoing maintenance and information about software updates. Training & maintenance
Where can I find software and manuals?
The latest software, firmware and manuals are available in our download area. Download area
Didn't find your answer?
Your key account manager is happy to help – or find software, manuals and training in our Service & Support area.