How many computers do I need?

It is possible to use one computer to connect to multiple OT-2s. This can be done by disconnecting from the OT-2 via the app and then connecting to a different OT-2 in the app. You can expect a delay of a few minutes when switching connections to a different OT-2.

We highly recommend one computer per OT-2 for the following reasons:

1. It could slow down the overall process of running/testing the samples.
2. It could introduce confusion about which laptop contains the required protocol, labware, and/or other experimentation data files
3. It would limit our ability to troubleshoot more advanced issues. The OT-2 requires a generated key to SSH into and keeping track of the keys would become very confusing.
4. Having one dedicated computer per OT-2 simplifies the connection process and mitigates the risk of potential connection problems.
5. If using a wired connection, you would need to move the computer around the room, switch cables, and connect to each OT-2 separately.

The app is optimized to work with one OT-2 at one time, it is clunky, and there are generally unknown bugs that can come up:

1. The OT-2s could lose its place in the calibration flow when switching between the different OT-2s.
2. Even if your computer has multiple USB ports, there can be weird routing issues that can lead to the inability to connect to the different OT-2s.
3. If you need to use one computer for multiple OT-2s make sure to complete calibrations, run the protocol, and properly disconnect through the app before switching to a different OT-2. Once you are connected to the different OT-2 you can flick the deck lights to verify you are connected to the correct OT-2.

We do understand you might have limited computer resources so if you do want to operate multiple OT-2s with one computer you can:

1. Connect your computer to OT-2 #1
2. Upload your protocol,
3. Calibrate required pipette and labware
4. Run the protocol
5. Disconnect from OT-2 #1
6. Connect computer to OT-2 #2, flick the deck lights, and repeat steps 3 and 4
7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 for remaining OT-2s