Abstract: Diagnostics for point-of-care (POC) and field use requires the integration of fluid processes with means of detection in a user-friendly, portable package. A drawback to the use of many current analyzers for POC and field applications is their reliance on expensive and fragile robotic technology for automation, lack of portability, and incomplete integration of sample processing into the device. As a result, a number of microfluidic technologies are being developed for diagnostics applications outside of central laboratories. We compare several of these technologies with our own preferred centrifugal flow system, the LabCD$+TM$/, with an emphasis on fluid propulsion. LabCD$+TM$/ has been developed to perform a variety of fluidic processes necessary in diagnostics while dispensing with traditional pumps and valves. The use of the CD-ROM model provides a natural division of the system into an instrument and a disposable component, each with well-defined functions. The CD format also allows for the use of encoded information to integrate process control, data acquisition, and analysis. Finally, the `solid state' nature of the microfluidics and use of standard manufacturing techniques should yield a low- cost platform.!17
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