Creating a New Data Entry Template

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Data entry templates allow you to print labels with data input from keyboard entry, barcode scanning, or a combination of both. This guide walks you through creating your first template.

Watch the Tutorial

Starting the Template Wizard

  1. Open QRlogix Software
  2. On the dashboard, locate the Data Entry Templates section
  3. Click the New button (marked I on the dashboard)
Dashboard New Template Button

The New Template Wizard will launch to guide you through the setup process.

Step 1: Select Label Type

Choose the type of label you want to create:

Microscope Slide Label

For standard histology and pathology slides. Common dimensions:

  • 1" x 3" (25mm x 75mm)
  • Custom sizes available

Tissue Cassette Label

For tissue processing cassettes. Common dimensions:

  • Various sizes to fit different cassette models
  • Custom sizes available
Label Type Selection

Step 2: Choose Counter Type

Select how you want to count your labels:

Copies (Duplicates)

  • Prints identical labels multiple times
  • Same information on each label
  • Best for: Duplicate specimens, backup labels

Example: Print 3 identical labels with "S23-1234-A1"

To/From (Sequential)

  • Prints sequentially numbered labels
  • Each label increments by 1
  • Best for: Serial sections, multiple slides per specimen

Example: Print labels "S23-1234-A1", "S23-1234-A2", "S23-1234-A3"

Counter Selection

Step 3: Name Your Template

Give your template a descriptive name and description:

  • Template Name: Short, descriptive name (e.g., "H&E Slides" or "IHC Protocol")
  • Description: Optional notes about template use or purpose
Template Naming
Template Details

Tips for Naming:

  • Use names that identify the workflow (e.g., "Grossing Slides")
  • Include label type if managing multiple types
  • Keep it under 50 characters for easy display

Step 4: Build Your Form

The Form Builder opens, allowing you to add data entry fields to your template.

Form Builder

Available Form Fields

You can add:

  • Text Fields - For alphanumeric data (case numbers, patient names, etc.)
  • Numeric Fields - For numbers only (sequential counters, specimen counts)
  • Dropdown Boxes - For predefined selections (stains, departments, technicians)
  • Panels - For printing multiple labels with different values (IHC panels, stain sets)
  • Sequential Letters - For specimen letters (A, B, C, etc.)
  • Sequential Numbers - For slide numbers (1, 2, 3, etc.)

Adding Fields

  1. Click Add Field at the top of Form Builder
  2. Select the field type you want
  3. Configure the field properties
  4. Click Save
  5. Repeat for all needed fields

Important: Add all form fields that will appear on your label. You'll map these to the label design in the next step.

Learn more about Form Builder →

Step 5: Design Your Label

Once form fields are configured, click Label Builder to design the label layout.

Label Builder Entry

In Label Builder, you'll:

  • Position text fields on the label
  • Add barcodes
  • Set fonts and sizes
  • Add static text or images
  • Preview the label design

Complete Label Builder Tutorial →

Step 6: Save and Test

After designing your label:

  1. Click Save in Label Builder
  2. You'll return to the template form
  3. Enter sample data
  4. Check the label preview in the upper right
  5. Click Print to test (use blank labels or print to PDF)

Template Configuration Tips

For Basic Slides

Minimum fields needed:

  • Case Number (Text Field)
  • Slide Number (Sequential Numbers or Numeric)
  • Optional: Stain, Date, Technician

For Complex Workflows

Consider adding:

  • Dropdown boxes for standard selections (stains, fixatives)
  • Panels for IHC or multi-stain protocols
  • Barcode reader integration for LIS data
  • Lock/repeat fields for repetitive data

Best Practices

Do:

  • Test print before production use
  • Use sample data similar to real data
  • Keep forms simple and logical
  • Add only necessary fields

Don't:

  • Overcrowd the label with too much information
  • Use tiny fonts (minimum 8pt recommended)
  • Skip the test print phase
  • Forget to save your work

After Creation

Once your template is created:

  1. Pin it to the dashboard for quick access
  2. Export it to share with colleagues or as backup
  3. Customize further as needed (Options → Customize Template)

Next Steps

Now that you've created a template:

Need Help?

Creating templates is easy, but if you need assistance:

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