Lab tools
QR Labels & Scanner
Print QR labels for your plants, explants, and protocols — then scan them from any device to instantly jump to the matching lab record with relevant quick actions.
How it works
- 1
Generate a QR label
Open any plant or explant record and click the Labels tab. Each entity has a unique QR code that encodes a direct link to its page. Resize or regenerate codes as needed.
- 2
Print and attach
Use the print button to open a print-optimised label page. Print on standard label sheets or plain paper. Laminate or apply protective tape for wet lab environments.
- 3
Scan in the field
Open the Scanner from the sidebar (or your device camera app). Point at the QR label — the matching record opens instantly with quick-action shortcuts.
What each QR code links to
| Entity | Opens | Quick actions |
|---|---|---|
| Plant | Plant detail page | Open record, add a new explant |
| Explant | Explant detail page | Open record, run a protocol, log contamination |
| Protocol (SOP) | Protocol detail page | Open protocol, start a run |
In-app scanner
The xPlant Scanner (Dashboard → Scan) uses your device camera directly in the browser — no app download required. It continuously detects QR codes and surfaces quick-action shortcuts for the scanned entity.
- Continuous camera scanning — no manual trigger needed
- Scan history so you can revisit the last 30 codes
- Quick-action buttons appear immediately after each scan
- Manual entry fallback — paste a URL or entity ID
- Flashlight toggle for low-light lab conditions (Android / modern browsers)
- Works offline after the page is loaded
Scanner hardware options
Mobile phone (recommended)
Any modern Android or iOS device works with the built-in camera app or the xPlant in-app scanner. Mount your phone in a hands-free holder at the bench.
USB barcode scanner (plug-and-play)
A USB HID QR scanner (e.g. Honeywell Voyager 1450g or NETUM C750) plugs into any computer and sends scanned values as keyboard input. Useful at a fixed workstation.
Bluetooth QR scanner
Wireless scanners like the Opticon OPN-4000i pair with a tablet or laptop and are ideal for moving between benches. Pair to a device running xPlant in the browser.
Tablet mounted at the bench
A mounted tablet running the xPlant Scanner page gives a dedicated always-on scan station without leaving a workstation.
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.