What is fcs files?

FCS files, short for Flow Cytometry Standard files, are digital files that contain raw data collected from flow cytometry experiments. The data is collected by analyzing cells or particles that are labeled with fluorescent dyes and then passed through a laser beam that excites the fluorescent markers and captures the emitted signals. The resulting data is saved in an FCS file format which is a binary file format developed and standardized by the International Society for Analytical Cytology (ISAC).

The FCS format is used by a wide range of flow cytometry software and data analysis tools, making it a widely recognized and accepted file format for sharing and exchanging data. FCS files can also store meta-data such as experimental setup, instrument settings, and analysis parameters.

Some of the key features of FCS files include:

  • Standardized file format for flow cytometry data analysis
  • Ability to store large amounts of raw data
  • Compatible with various flow cytometry software and analysis tools
  • Also contains metadata such as instrument settings and experimental parameters
  • Supports analysis workflows such as gating, compensation, and quality control.