A computer system to both measure and classify human chromosomes with good accuracy compared to manual methods is described. Using a 35-mm photomicrographic negative, the system, while measuring the chromosomes automatically, requires a human operator’s interaction for about 15% of the chromosomes. Results for an initial 45 spreads are given. Using the interactively measured arm lengths and arm areas, the system classified over 99% of the chromosomes correctly into 10 classes without any assistance; two chromosomes, or 0.1% of the initial sample, were misclassified (from group D to E). For the remaining 1%, interaction after classification was requested by the computer, and, with the information available to the operator, a correct classification can be made in these cases by him. The system uses a computer-controlled flying spot scanner connected to a medium-size general purpose computer, an IBM 360 Series, Model 30, and takes 25 min per spread. An annual capacity of 7500 analyzed spreads will be available in 1971 after installation of an RCA Spectra 70/46, operating under a multi-programmed system, in October 1970. Applications for the system may depend on cytogeneticists exploiting its advantages and avoiding the drawbacks describe
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