Lab tools
QR labels and scanner
Connect physical plants, explants, and lab records with QR labels. Print a label, attach it to the culture or vessel, then scan it with your phone to open the matching record and continue your workflow in xPlant.
How it works
- 1
Create a QR label
Open a supported record in xPlant and create a QR label for it. The code connects the physical label to the corresponding record in your workspace.
- 2
Print and attach
Print the label and attach it to the appropriate vessel, container, tray, or other lab identifier. Choose a label material and placement that remain readable in your working environment.
- 3
Scan to open the record
Scan the QR code with the xPlant scanner or a compatible device camera to open the linked record. From there, continue with the actions available for that plant, explant, or other supported record.
What QR labels can connect to
| Record | Opens |
|---|---|
| Plant | Plant record and its culture history |
| Explant | Explant record and related stage information |
| SOP | SOP record and available workflow actions |
Available actions depend on the record type and your workspace permissions.
Scan labels with xPlant
The xPlant scanner uses your device camera to read supported QR labels directly in the browser. Scan a label to open its linked record without searching manually through your workspace.
- Scan with your phone or tablet. Use a compatible device camera directly from the browser.
- Open the matching record quickly. Move from a physical label to its xPlant record without manually searching for an ID or name.
- Continue the lab workflow. Once the record opens, use the actions available for that plant, explant, or SOP.
Camera access: The in-app scanner requires camera permission in your browser. If camera scanning isn't available, you can still open a QR label using your device's camera or QR scanner.
Scanner hardware options
Printing tips
- Avery 2×4 inch label sheets (20 per sheet) work well for explant vessels
- Minimum printed size: 1.5 × 1.5 cm for reliable scanning
- Laser printing holds up better to humidity than inkjet
- Clear self-laminating pouches protect labels in wet environments
- Use the "Fit to page" option in your print dialog for consistent sizing
Ready to set up QR labels?
Open any plant or explant record, go to the Labels tab, and print your first label. The in-app scanner is available under Dashboard → Scan from any device.