Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the IncuCount automated colony counter? The IncuCount series (IC-25, IC-75, IC-150, IC-200, IC-300, IC-350) are automated colony counters that use high-resolution optics, AI-driven software, and LED lighting to quickly and accurately count a diverse array of microbial colony forming units (CFU) on agar plates and measure antibiotic inhibition zones — making them ideal for labs that need reliable antimicrobial and antibiotic sensitivity testing.
2. How does IncuCount improve accuracy compared to manual counting? Manual counting is slow, inconsistent, and prone to human error. The IncuCount uses AI image segmentation to separate touching (clustered) colonies, distinguish light vs. dark colonies, and capture a digital image record for every plate. Every model delivers accurate counts on standard 100 mm plates, ensuring reproducible CFU counts across operators and supporting compliance requirements.
3. Which plates and media can I use? The IncuCount automated colony counters are compatible with:
- Standard Petri dishes up to 100 mm (the IC-350 accommodates plates up to 150 mm)
- CompactDry™, Petrifilm™, and Microfast™ plates
- A wide range of microbiology media, including Nutrient Agar, Plate Count Agar (PCA), Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), Tryptic Soy Agar (TSA), MacConkey Agar, and chromogenic media
This flexibility supports applications in food safety, pharma QC, clinical diagnostics, environmental microbiology, and biotechnology research.
4. Can the IncuCount measure inhibition zones? Yes. Every model in the IncuCount line — from the entry-level IC-25 up through the IC-350 — automatically counts colonies and measures inhibition zones on agar plates. This is widely used in antibiotic sensitivity testing (AST), antimicrobial screening, and research applications.
5. How small of a colony can the IncuCount detect? All models — IC-25, IC-75, IC-150, IC-200, IC-300, and IC-350 — detect colonies as small as 0.07 mm with advanced optics and imaging, making them suitable for both routine counts and more complex research applications.
6. Is the system compliant with lab regulations? Yes. The IC-150, IC-200, IC-300, and IC-350 include 21 CFR Part 11–compatible software with audit trails and secure record keeping. Every model, including the IC-25 and IC-75, ships with manufacturer-supplied IQ/OQ protocols at no extra charge (PQ is performed by the customer's lab). Data can be exported in CSV, Excel, PDF, or TIFF formats for traceability and integration with most LIMS systems.
7. How fast does counting take? Most plates are analyzed in a few seconds, regardless of model. This allows labs to process significantly more samples than manual methods, improving throughput and productivity.
8. Which industries use IncuCount colony counters? Our colony counters are trusted by labs in:
- Food & Beverage Microbiology – coliform, yeast, and mold testing
- Pharmaceutical Quality Control – CFU counts and inhibition zone measurement
- Clinical Microbiology – diagnostic agar plate interpretation
- Environmental Monitoring – water, wastewater, and soil testing
- Biotechnology Research – CRISPR screening, morphology studies, teaching labs
9. What's the difference between the IC-25, IC-75, IC-150, IC-200, IC-300, and IC-350?
| Model | Best for | Key features |
|---|---|---|
| IC-25 | Routine counting on a budget | Compact PLA construction; connects to your own Windows PC (not included); simple USB interface; IQ/OQ protocols included |
| IC-75 | Routine counting, portable | Rugged aluminum construction with travel case; runs on your own Windows PC (not included); 4K camera; IQ/OQ protocols included |
| IC-150 | Labs needing regulated data | Included Windows tablet with touch screen; up to 10-color colony differentiation; 21 CFR Part 11 audit trails |
| IC-200 | High-throughput, hands-off use | All IC-150 features, plus a rugged powder-coated aluminum stand to save bench space |
| IC-300 | Multi-user QC workflows | Integrated stand and tablet; barcode scanner; darkroom fixture; 3 additional software seats for other Windows computers |
| IC-350 | Larger plates, high-volume QC | All IC-300 features, plus support for plates up to 150 mm |
10. What support and warranty do you provide? Every IncuCount system includes a 2-year manufacturer's warranty, along with access to software updates and technical support. Extended service contracts are also available for labs requiring validation and ongoing compliance support.
11. Do you offer a satisfaction guarantee? Yes. Every IncuCount colony counter comes with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. If your system doesn't meet expectations, you can return it within 30 days for an exchange or full refund — making your investment in automated colony counting completely risk-free.
12. Is shipping free within the United States? Yes. We provide free shipping on all orders within the USA. Your IncuCount system will be securely packaged and shipped at no additional cost, helping labs keep budgets predictable while upgrading to automated colony counting technology.
13. Where are IncuCount colony counters manufactured? All IncuCount automated colony counters are assembled in the USA with domestic and globally sourced parts. Our colony counters are built with high-quality components and backed by local service, ensuring reliability for food safety, pharmaceutical QC, clinical, and research laboratories.
14. How long has the IncuCount been on the market? The IncuCount automated colony counter was first designed and manufactured by Revolutionary Science in 2009. As Revolutionary Science shifted its focus toward its core laboratory equipment products, the decision was made to establish Newlander Life Sciences as a dedicated company to refine and advance the IncuCount automated colony counter product line. Today, Newlander Life Sciences is the exclusive manufacturer of IncuCount systems, with a singular mission to perfect automated colony counting and inhibition zone measurement technology.
15. Do you offer financing? Yes. IncuCount systems are available with monthly payment plans in addition to one-time purchase — for example, the IC-200 is available from $541.46/mo. Contact us or check the product page for current sample plans.
