Cryostorage Box Indexing Helper
Plan and visualize cryobox layouts with configurable grid positions. Assign samples to labeled coordinates, reserve positions, and generate box maps for organizational planning.
Understanding Cryostorage Box Indexing
What is a Cryostorage Box?
A cryostorage box (often called a cryobox or freezer box) is a container designed to hold cryogenic vials in a grid pattern. These boxes are used to organize biological samples, cell lines, reagents, or other materials stored at ultra-low temperatures (typically -80°C or in liquid nitrogen at -196°C). Common grid sizes include 9×9 (81 positions), 10×10 (100 positions), and various other configurations depending on vial size and manufacturer.
Grid Labeling Systems
Letter-Number Convention (Most Common)
The most widely used labeling convention uses letters for rows (A, B, C...) and numbers for columns (1, 2, 3...). This creates position labels like A1, B5, or J10, similar to spreadsheet cell references. For boxes with more than 26 rows, letters continue as AA, AB, AC, and so on.
Numeric Convention
Some labs prefer all-numeric labeling (1-1, 2-5, 10-10) or use numbers for both rows and columns in different contexts. This tool supports both letter and number styles for either axis.
Fill Order Patterns
Row-Major Order
Fills across each row before moving to the next row.
A1 → A2 → A3 → ... → B1 → B2 → B3 → ...
This is the most common fill pattern in laboratory settings.
Column-Major Order
Fills down each column before moving to the next column.
A1 → B1 → C1 → ... → A2 → B2 → C2 → ...
Sometimes preferred for multi-channel pipetting workflows.
Reserved Positions
Reserved positions are grid locations that are excluded from automatic sample placement. Common reasons to reserve positions include:
- •Damaged wells: Physical defects in the box that prevent safe vial storage
- •Control positions: Reserved for positive/negative controls or reference samples
- •QC positions: Designated locations for quality control samples
- •Empty spacers: Intentionally empty positions for organizational purposes
Start Index for Sample Placement
The start index allows you to begin placing samples at a position other than the first available slot. This is useful when partially filling a box or when adding samples to a box that already has some vials in place. A start index of 1 begins at the first available (non-reserved) position, while a start index of 5 would skip the first 4 available positions and begin at the 5th.
Best Practices for Sample Organization
- •Use consistent labeling conventions across your lab or institution
- •Record box location (freezer, rack, position) along with vial position
- •Label both the vial cap and the side (if visible) with sample ID
- •Consider grouping related samples (same experiment, cell line, or date) in adjacent positions
- •Maintain a box map or inventory log that matches the physical box
For Planning & Educational Use Only
This tool generates an in-memory layout for planning and labeling purposes only. It does NOT persist inventory data or synchronize with any external systems. For actual sample tracking, use your lab's validated LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) or inventory software and follow institutional SOPs, biosafety guidelines, and regulatory requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
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