Traditional LIMS implementations require manual data entry, custom integrations, and ongoing maintenance headaches. STL LIMS-ext eliminates these challenges with a powerful, plugin-based integration platform that connects your lab instruments directly to your LIMS—automatically, reliably, and in real-time.
Built on the robust PF4J (Plugin Framework for Java) architecture, STL LIMS-ext provides dynamic plugin management, seamless bi-directional data exchange, and a modern web-based management interface.

What Is STL LIMS-ext?

STL LIMS-ext is a Laboratory Information Management System extension designed to bridge the gap between your lab instruments and your LIMS. Instead of building custom integrations for every instrument, STL LIMS-ext uses a plugin-based architecture that makes adding new instruments simple, fast, and maintainable.

Core Technology

  • Framework: PF4J (Plugin Framework for Java)
  • Architecture: Centralized server with dynamic plugin management
  • Interface: React-based web management console
  • Communication: Message bus for inter-plugin async/sync patterns
  • Data Transfer: Real-time support with HL7 and ASTM protocols

Key Features

1. Dynamic Plugin Management

Load, start, stop, and unload plugins without system restart. Add new instrument integrations on the fly without disrupting lab operations.

2. Pre-Built Integrations

STL LIMS-ext comes with six pre-built plugins ready to deploy:

  • Bio-LIMS — Seamless integration with Bio-LIMS platform
  • iMedNet — EDC (Electronic Data Capture) system integration
  • Roche Cobas — Automated data transfer from Cobas instruments
  • Cepheid GeneXpert — Real-time PCR machine integration
  • BD Max — PCR instrument connectivity
  • Email Service — Automated notifications and alerts

Custom plugins available for additional instruments and systems.

3. Multi-Protocol Support

  • HL7 messaging for clinical lab instruments
  • ASTM protocol support for legacy equipment
  • Custom APIs for modern systems
  • EDC integration (iMedNet, Castor, and more)

4. Real-Time Data Synchronization

Eliminate delays between sample processing and data availability. STL LIMS-ext transfers results to your LIMS in real-time, accelerating turnaround times and improving lab efficiency.

5. Cloud & On-Premises Flexibility

Works with LIMS deployed in the cloud or on-premises. No special network setup required—STL LIMS-ext handles connectivity seamlessly regardless of where your LIMS lives.

6. Web-Based Management Console

Modern React-based frontend for monitoring plugin status, viewing logs, managing configurations, and troubleshooting—all from your browser.

Problems STL LIMS-ext Solves

❌ Manual Data Entry

Problem: Lab staff waste hours transcribing instrument results into LIMS, introducing errors and delays.

Solution: STL LIMS-ext automates data transfer, eliminating manual entry and reducing transcription errors to zero.

❌ Custom Integration Complexity

Problem: Every new instrument requires costly, time-consuming custom integration development.

Solution: Plugin architecture means adding new instruments is fast and straightforward—often using pre-built plugins with minimal configuration.

❌ System Downtime for Updates

Problem: Traditional integrations require system restarts for updates, disrupting lab operations.

Solution: Dynamic plugin management lets you update, add, or remove integrations without restarting the system.

❌ Cloud/On-Prem Integration Challenges

Problem: Connecting on-site lab instruments to cloud-based LIMS is complicated and requires VPNs or special network configurations.

Solution: STL LIMS-ext handles connectivity automatically, whether your LIMS is in the cloud or on-premises.

How It Works

Step 1: Deploy STL LIMS-ext Server

We install the STL LIMS-ext centralized server in your environment (cloud or on-premises).

Step 2: Configure Plugins

Select pre-built plugins for your instruments (Roche Cobas, GeneXpert, BD Max, etc.) or request custom plugin development for specialized equipment.

Step 3: Connect Instruments

Plugins communicate with your lab instruments via HL7, ASTM, or custom APIs—no manual intervention required.

Step 4: Data Flows to LIMS

Instrument results automatically transfer to your LIMS (Bio-LIMS or other platforms) in real-time via bi-directional data exchange.

Step 5: Monitor & Manage

Use the web-based management console to monitor plugin status, view logs, and manage configurations.

Supported Systems

Lab Instruments

  • PCR machines (via HL7/ASTM)
  • Roche Cobas analyzers
  • Cepheid GeneXpert systems
  • BD Max instruments
  • Custom plugins available for additional equipment

LIMS Platforms

  • Bio-LIMS (primary integration partner)
  • Other LIMS platforms supported via custom plugins

EDC Systems

  • iMedNet
  • Castor
  • Other EDC platforms via custom development

Business Model

Flexible Pricing Options

Option 1: Bundled with LIMS Deployment
Include STL LIMS-ext as part of your Bio-LIMS implementation for seamless, turnkey integration.

Option 2: Standalone Subscription
Deploy STL LIMS-ext independently to integrate instruments with your existing LIMS.

Option 3: Managed Service
Ongoing subscription includes plugin management, updates, monitoring, and support—ideal for labs without dedicated IT teams.

Who Benefits from STL LIMS-ext?

Clinical Diagnostic Labs

Automate data transfer from analyzers and PCR machines to your LIMS, ensuring fast turnaround times and eliminating transcription errors.

Biotech Startups

Scale your operations without scaling your IT team. STL LIMS-ext handles instrument integration so you can focus on science.

Research Facilities

Integrate diverse lab equipment with your LIMS without custom coding for every instrument. Add new equipment as your research evolves.

Labs Using EDC Systems

Seamlessly connect iMedNet, Castor, or other EDC platforms with your LIMS for unified data management across clinical trials.

Why STL LIMS-ext Stands Out

Not Just Consulting—Proprietary Technology

Most lab IT consultants configure off-the-shelf tools. STL LIMS-ext is our own platform, purpose-built for lab data integration. This means:

  • Faster deployment (pre-built plugins vs. custom code)
  • Lower cost (no reinventing the wheel for each instrument)
  • Ongoing innovation (we continually add plugins and features)
  • Expert support (we built it, we know it inside-out)

Plugin Architecture = Future-Proof

Lab equipment changes. New instruments arrive. Workflows evolve. STL LIMS-ext’s plugin architecture ensures you can adapt quickly without costly re-engineering.

Proven in Production

STL LIMS-ext is actively deployed in clinical labs and biotech facilities, reliably transferring lab data every day.

Get Started with STL LIMS-ext

Interested in eliminating manual data entry and streamlining lab data integration?

Schedule a consultation to discuss:

  • Your current lab instruments and LIMS setup
  • Integration challenges you’re facing
  • How STL LIMS-ext plugins can solve your specific needs
  • Pricing and deployment timeline

Frequently Asked Questions

Can STL LIMS-ext work with our existing LIMS?

Yes. While STL LIMS-ext is designed for seamless integration with Bio-LIMS, we can develop custom plugins for other LIMS platforms.

What if our instrument isn’t on the pre-built plugin list?

We can develop custom plugins for additional instruments. Our plugin framework makes this faster and more cost-effective than traditional custom integration.

Does STL LIMS-ext require special network configuration?

No. STL LIMS-ext handles connectivity automatically, whether your LIMS is cloud-based or on-premises.

What ongoing support is included?

Managed service subscriptions include plugin updates, monitoring, troubleshooting, and support. Self-managed options are also available.

How long does deployment take?

Typical deployment with pre-built plugins: 2-4 weeks. Custom plugin development adds time depending on complexity.