Aspects of the present invention describe a method and apparatus for automating analysis of genetic samples. The initial operation receives amplification data associated with at least one spectral species and a genetic sample in each well of a plate. A putative growth signal is identified for the genetic sample from the amplification data forming a baseline region having a start point and an end point along with a growth region. Depending one on one or more characteristics detected in the amplification data forming the baseline region and growth region, aspects of the present invention modifies the baseline region to further identify the putative growth signal.