read depth, number of reads explanation

[angel0071987]

HI I am very new to sequencing and am trying to learn the basics for use on a miseq sequencer.

i understand that the read length is the number of bases sequenced consectively, but i was hoping that someone can please explain what the number of reads is, and what the depth of sequencing means?

im getting confused as to whether expected read depth’ is the same as ‘times coverage’ of the genome.

I hope you can help.

Thanks

[dpryan]

Crossposted on biostars, where Pierre and I have both replied.