How It Works
This validator works in 4 steps.
Enter the inputs
Type concentrations, volumes, ratios, and container data.
Run the rule checks
It checks units, ratio style, whether the target can be made, pipette limits, tube size and how volumes add.
Review the flags
Hard errors appear in red and warnings in amber.
Apply the fixes
Accept a suggested fix or edit the input and re-run.
The Formula
The formula set applies feasibility and range rules to each input.
C₂ < C₁ (dilution only)V₁ ≥ V_minV₁ + V_d ≤ V_container × (1 − h)- V_min:
- Minimum transfer volume
- h:
- Headspace fraction
- V_container:
- Container capacity
An entry of C₁ = 1 mM and C₂ = 5 mM fails the feasibility rule. The validator suggests a stronger stock, since dilution cannot raise concentration.
Conversion Table
The conversion table lists 6 sample inputs, the issue detected, and the suggested fix.
| Input | Issue | Suggested fix |
|---|---|---|
| C₂ = 5 mM, C₁ = 1 mM | Target above stock | Use a stronger stock or a concentration step |
| C₁ = 10 mM, C₂ = 100 µM | Mixed prefixes | Converted: 100 µM = 0.1 mM |
| Ratio 1:9, convention unset | Ambiguous ratio | Choose stock-to-diluent (DF 10) or stock-to-final (DF 9) |
| V₁ = 0.2 µL | Below minimum transfer | Add a 1:10 predilution |
| V₁ + V_d = 55 mL in 50 mL tube | Exceeds container | Use a larger container |
| % v/v ethanol, fixed water volume | Nonadditive volumes | Make to volume instead |
What Is the Dilution Input Validator?
The Dilution Input Validator is a tool that checks your numbers before any math runs. It looks for mixed units, unclear ratios, targets that can't be reached, tiny transfers and full containers. Each issue comes with a plain-language fix.
Most dilution errors start with a typo, not the math. A µM gets typed as mM. A 1:9 ratio gets read the wrong way. Or the target is stronger than the stock. The validator runs 6 rule groups and blocks a calculation only for hard errors, such as C₂ > C₁. Soft warnings, such as transfers under 1 µL, show a suggestion and let the user continue.
Common Uses
There are 5 main uses of this validator.
Error prevention
Users catch unit and convention errors before mixing.
Batch screening
Labs screen CSV batches before processing.
Form checks
Web forms validate inputs before submission.
Training feedback
Trainees see why an input fails.
Regulated workflows
GxP labs record validation results with each calculation.