Question 1

How long does it take to set up LIMS BOX?

Accepted Answer

Most labs are operational within 5-10 business days. That includes importing your sample types, configuring analytical methods, setting up user accounts, and a training session for your team. There is no 12-18 month implementation like enterprise LIMS platforms.

Question 2

Can we migrate data from our existing spreadsheets?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide a data migration tool that imports sample records, client lists, and method configurations from Excel and CSV files. Historical data can be imported as archived records so you don't lose your audit trail.

Question 3

Do we need dedicated IT staff to run LIMS BOX?

Accepted Answer

No. LIMS BOX is designed for labs that share one IT person with the rest of the company — or don't have one at all. The Pelican case deployment runs on a Mac Studio that requires minimal maintenance. Cloud-hosted options require zero server management.

Question 4

What does LIMS BOX cost?

Accepted Answer

Plans start at $500/month for up to 3 users. The Growth plan at $1,200/month supports up to 15 users with instrument integration and advanced reporting. No implementation fee, no long-term contract, cancel anytime. See our pricing page for full details.

Question 5

Is there a free trial or pilot program?

Accepted Answer

We offer a 30-day pilot program for qualifying labs. You get a fully configured system with your actual methods and sample types, dedicated onboarding support, and the option to walk away with no obligation if it doesn't fit.

Question 6

What happens to our data if we cancel?

Accepted Answer

Your data is always yours. On cancellation, we provide a full export of all sample records, results, QC data, and audit trails in standard formats (CSV, JSON, PDF). We retain backups for 90 days after cancellation, then permanently delete.

Question 7

Is LIMS BOX ISO 17025 compliant?

Accepted Answer

LIMS BOX provides the technical controls that ISO 17025 requires: audit trails, sample traceability, QC enforcement, document control, and analyst competency tracking. Your lab still needs a quality management system and documented procedures, but the software infrastructure is ready for accreditation.

Question 8

Does LIMS BOX meet 21 CFR Part 11 requirements?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Immutable audit trails, electronic signatures with password authentication, role-based access controls, and data integrity enforcement (ALCOA+) are built into the system. We also provide validation documentation templates to support your IQ/OQ/PQ effort.

Question 9

How does LIMS BOX handle chain of custody?

Accepted Answer

Digital chain of custody from sample receipt through disposal. Every custody transfer is signed electronically with a timestamp and user ID. Temperature logging at receipt, barcode scanning for sample login, and a complete audit trail for every handoff. The record is generated automatically — no paper forms to lose.

Question 10

What methods does LIMS BOX support out of the box?

Accepted Answer

Pre-configured templates for common EPA methods including 200.8 (metals by ICP-MS), 524.2 (VOCs by GC-MS), 300.0 (anions by IC), 365.1 (phosphorus), SM 9223B (Colilert), and more. Custom methods can be configured by your lab manager without vendor assistance.

Question 11

Can LIMS BOX integrate with our instruments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. LIMS BOX supports direct instrument integration via CSV, XML, and common data formats. ICP-MS, GC-MS, IC, UV-Vis, and other instruments that export data files can be connected. The Growth and Enterprise plans include instrument integration setup.

Question 12

Does LIMS BOX work offline?

Accepted Answer

The Pelican case deployment runs entirely on local hardware — a Mac Studio inside a ruggedized case. No internet required for core LIMS operations. This is critical for rural labs, field deployments, and facilities with unreliable connectivity. Cloud sync happens when connectivity is available.

Question 13

What is SENAITE and why does LIMS BOX use it?

Accepted Answer

SENAITE is an open-source, enterprise-grade LIMS built by RidingBytes in Germany. It powers accredited labs worldwide and is the most capable open-source LIMS available. LIMS BOX packages SENAITE into a turnkey deployment with pre-configured environmental testing workflows, simplified onboarding, and the voice interface.

Question 14

What kind of support is included?

Accepted Answer

Starter plan: email support with next-business-day response. Growth plan: priority email and phone support, dedicated onboarding specialist, and quarterly check-in calls. Enterprise: dedicated account manager, SLA with 4-hour response time, on-site training available.

Question 15

Can we talk to a real person before buying?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Schedule a live demo webinar or request a 1-on-1 call. Our founder has 15 years of LIMS implementation experience and personally handles early adopter consultations. Email info@lims.bot or call (858) 305-8744.

Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

Pricing & Contracts

Compliance

Technical

Support