Q:What is CPDN?
A: Caribbean Regional Diagnostic Network (CPDN) was developed by the University of Florida IFAS. The current website is version 3 of CPDN. CPDN serves growers' and homeowners' needs for quick identification and diagnostic services as a basis for Integrated Pest Management programs. CPDN provides a collaboration and communication tool for first detectors, extension specialists and diagnosticians to share information on plant insects and diseases. The system uses field data and digital media as a tool for enhancement of diagnosis of plant disease, insect, weed, invasive species, plant management, physiology, and nutrient problems. The system has the advantage of associating the images or videos and related description in a searchable database. The resulting archive of samples will give us a robust library for future research and extension use. [top]
Q:Where can I get technical support on how to use the CPDN?
A:Start by reading CPDN How To and FAQs on the CPDN website. If your question isn't answered there, call the CPDN Help Desk, 352-392-4636. [top]
Q:What is the "standard" CPDN hardware?
A:Visit the CPDN Equipment configuration
If county funds are available, we suggest you start with the camera, the adapter and a dissecting stereoscope. Add the compound microscope and additional light source next. [top]
Q:Why do I have to fill out so much information on the form?
A:The more information a diagnostician has, the better - or quicker - the answer back to you. And the more complete the text descriptions, the better the archive will serve us all later when we use the accumulated samples in the library. The information on the CPDN form was compiled from paper forms the different identification and diagnostic services where using with biological samples. [top]
Q:Who can receive my sample?
A: A list of specialists who registered with the CPDN may receive samples. They are specialists in different areas in universities, government institutions, diagnostic labs or clinics. You can see a list of specialists after you login CPDN. [top]
Q:How can I tell whether my sample has gone to the specialist?
A:As soon as a sample is successfully submitted, you'll get a notification that gives the sample ID code, and an e-mail notification. If these don't appear quickly, then you can bet your sample didn't go through.
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Q:When I click the submit button, it seems to take a long time. How can I speed up the sending process?
A:There are three good ways to cut the transmission time of CPDN samples you submit: 1) use as few photos as you can to represent the problem, 2) use proper image size. You may reduce or crop images if necessary, and 3) use high speed, direct connection to the Internet through ISDN, T1, DSL, fiber optic lines, or a cable modem. The rule: send small files on fast lines to minimize connect time. If you cannot submit any images, please contact your local computer support personnel and make sure your computer network permits file upload. [top]
Q:How do I reduce the size of an image file?
A: Software such as ACDSee, Google's Picasa and Adobe PhotoShop allow you to crop or resize images. Please reference the software users' guide on how to crop/resize an image. [top]
Q:What if I want to share a sample or a response with another user?
A:Login to CPDN and view the sample. In CPDN Toolbox, grant permission to another person. This sample will appear to another user's My Sample folder. [top]
Q:How many images should I submit?
A:Take enough photos and select a few best photos that can represent the symptoms of plant and pest. You may have photos for field view, close up view and microscope view. If you want submit more photos after your initial submission, you always can add additional photos by revising the sample. [top]