We frequently receive questions about the “correct” or “recommended” settings for grids, counting frames, and probe layouts. The short answer is that there are no “golden numbers” to use when creating your study. Remember that your goal is not to count every particle or measure every fiber—you are sampling to get an estimate. Here are some questions to ask when starting:
How precise should my estimate be? If your fiber length is uniformly long, parallel, and evenly spaced, you could go with fewer sample sites, a larger Merz radius, and a larger counting frame and you would get a relatively precise estimate. Most samples are not uniform and homogenous, however. Less homogenous samples lead to 'intersects' less predictably oriented in space; as a result, more sampling for your study is required to produce acceptable results. More sampling means more sampling sites, a smaller Merz radius, and/or larger counting frames.
Are there any guidelines to get me started? We recommend at least ten counting frames per region of interest, and aim for 200 intersections per petri dish. Remember that these are just general guidelines to get you started.
Is there a Coefficient of Error (CE) I can use? No, there is no CE for the Petrimetrics probe.