Page 1 BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series BenchCel Diagnostics version 17.0.3 (2007) for BenchWorks Automation Control software User Guide and Addenda Agilent Technologies...
Page 2 Further, to the max- A WARNING notice denotes a prior agreement and written consent from imum extent permitted by applicable Agilent Technologies, Inc. as governed by hazard. It calls attention to an law, Agilent disclaims all warranties, United States and international copyright...
Page 3 Labware Stacker New contact information Documentation feedback: documentation.automation@agilent.com Technical Support: 1.800.979.4811 or +1.408.345.8011 service.automation@agilent.com Customer Service: 1.866.428.9811 or +1.408.345.8356 orders.automation@agilent.com European Service: +44 (0)1763853638 euroservice.automation@agilent.com Web: www.agilent.com/lifesciences/automation Agilent Technologies, Inc., Automation Solutions, 5301 Stevens Creek Blvd., Santa Clara, CA 95051 USA...
Page 4 Letter to our Customers Agilent Technologies Inc., Automation Solutions Division...
Page 5 For a description of the BenchCel device or VStack device, see the BenchCel User Guide or VStack User Guide. The labware racks are available in three models: standard rack, top- load rack, and front- load rack. 22825.00.00.00_RackHandlingGuide_June08 Copyright© 2008 Velocity11, An Agilent Technologies Company All rights reserved.
Page 6 Carrying the racks Figure Lifting a standard rack WARNING Do not hold a rack by the interior edges. The interior edges can have sharp surfaces that can cause cuts if handled improperly. CAUTION A rack that is fully loaded with labware can be heavy.
Page 7 Figure Loading a standard rack Loading labware in a front-load rack The doors on the front- load rack provide easy access for loading labware into the front of a rack that is mounted on a device. Figure Door mechanism on the front-load rack Interior edges can be sharp Door...
Page 8 • Printed books You can also search the online help or download the latest version of any PDF file from the Velocity11 website at: http://www.velocity11.com/support/knowledge_base Velocity11, an Agilent Technologies Company 3565 Haven Avenue, Menlo Park, CA 94025 USA +1.650.846.6600...
Page 9 BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Addendum November 2007 BenchCel Diagnostics version 17.0.3 19770.00.01.00_BenchCelR-SeriesUG_May07...
Page 11 BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation User Guide Addendum About this addendum This addendum explains how to set the sensor thresholds for optimum operation and provides additional troubleshooting information. The addendum contains the following sections: ❑ “Setting sensor thresholds” on page 1 ❑...
Page 12 BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation User Guide Addendum Before you start Make sure you have three spare microplates for each BenchCel Workstation stacker head. For example, if the BenchCel Workstation has six stacker heads, you will need 18 microplates. Make a copy of the provided “Worksheet for setting sensor thresholds” on page 11.
Page 13 BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation User Guide Addendum 4. Click the Labware tab. In the Sensors area, reduce the Intensity so that the highest Plate present reading (Jog/Teach tab) is less than or equal to 175. If the Plate present reading is very low, increase the Intensity to 100%.
Page 14 BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation User Guide Addendum 6. In BenchCel Diagnostics, click Load All. 7. In the Jog/Teach tab: a. Select the first stack. b. Record the Plate present reading. c. Repeat steps a and b for each of the remaining BenchCel Workstation stacks.
Page 15 BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation User Guide Addendum 9. In the Jog/Teach tab, type the calculated Plate presence threshold. Determining the To determine the optimum Orientation sensor offset: optimum Orientation 1. In BenchCel Diagnostics, click Downstack at the first stack. sensor offset 2.
Page 16 BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation User Guide Addendum 4. Click Move to Sensor. The robot moves the first microplate into the line of notch sensors. 5. Click the Jog/Teach tab and check the Notch Sensor readings. The notches should have much lower readings than the corners. In addition, the difference between the notch readings and corner readings should be at a maximum.
Page 17 BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation User Guide Addendum 7. Calculate the jog distance: Jog distance = Z – Z initial adjusted In the following example, the jog distance is –5.00 mm. 50.27 mm initial 55.27 mm adjusted Jog distance –5.00 mm 8.
Page 18 BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation User Guide Addendum Calculating the To calculate the Orientation threshold: Orientation 1. Click the Jog/Teach tab. In the Stacker Sensors area: threshold a. Select the first stack. b. Record the highest reading for the notch and lowest reading for the corner.
Page 19 BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation User Guide Addendum 5. In the Jog/Teach tab, type the calculated Orientation threshold. Hardware problems and software errors About this topic This topic supplements the troubleshooting chapter in the BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation User Guide. If you are still experiencing problems with the BenchCel Workstation after trying the solutions, contact Velocity11 Technical Support.
Page 20 BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation User Guide Addendum Software problems Error message Cause Solution Deadlock The microplate is assigned to the Check that the labware belongs to the wrong labware class. correct labware class in the Labware Editor. Most microplates should belong to the Uses Standard Plate Pad class.
Page 21 BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation User Guide Addendum Worksheet for setting sensor thresholds Plate-presence Initial Plate present readings threshold Set the thresholds as follows: ❑ Plate presence threshold = 225 units ❑ Intensity = 100%, Record the Plate present reading for each stack. Stack 1 Stack 2 Stack 3...
Page 22 BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation User Guide Addendum Optimum Orientation Initial Orientation sensor offset sensor threshold Measure A and B of your microplate. Initial Orientation sensor offset = (A/2) + B = ___________ mm Jog distance Jog distance = Z – Z = _________ mm initial adjusted...
Page 25 BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide May 2007 BenchCel Diagnostics version 15.0.22 19770.00.00.00_BenchCelR-SeriesUG_May07...
Page 27: Table Of Contents
Contents BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Contents Preface ........... . . iii Who this guide is for .
Page 28 Contents BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Chapter 4. Performing a run ......81 Workflow for performing a run .
Page 29: Preface
Preface BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation User Guide Preface This preface contains the following topics: “Who this guide is for” on page iv “What this guide covers” on page v “Accessing Velocity11 user information” on page vi...
Page 30: Who This Guide Is For
Preface BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation User Guide Who this guide is for About this topic This topic describes the target audience of this user guide. Job roles This user guide is for people with the following job roles: Job role Responsibilities Integrator Someone who configures software and...
Page 31: What This Guide Covers
Preface BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation User Guide What this guide covers What is covered This guide covers the description, installation, setup, and operation of ® the BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series. What is not covered This guide does not provide instructions for the following: BenchWorks™...
Page 32: Accessing Velocity11 User Information
Preface BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation User Guide Accessing Velocity11 user information About this topic This topic describes the different formats of Velocity11 user information and explains how to access the user information. Formats available Velocity11 user information is provided to you as: Online help A PDF file A printed book...
Page 33 Preface BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation User Guide Navigation pane Content pane Navigation buttons PDF user guides Computer requirements To open a user guide in PDF format, you need a PDF viewer. You can download a free PDF viewer from the internet. Printing and searching The user guides in PDF format are mainly for printing additional copies.
Page 34 viii Preface BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation User Guide...
Page 35: Chapter 1. Introduction
Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Introduction This chapter contains the following topics: “BenchCel Workstation description” on page 2 “Hardware overview” on page 4 “Accessories” on page 12 “Integration options” on page 14 “Labware considerations” on page 16 “Software description”...
Page 36: Benchcel Workstation Description
Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide BenchCel Workstation description About this topic This topic describes the BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series and explains its uses. Description The BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series (or the BenchCel Workstation) is a microplate-processing automation system that: Stores stacks of labware (microplates, tip boxes, and tube racks) that will be processed during a protocol run.
Page 37 Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Related topics For more information about... See... Hardware overview “Hardware overview” on page 4 Accessories “Accessories” on page 12 Integration options “Integration options” on page 14 Automation-ready labware “Labware considerations” on page 16 Software that controls the “Software description”...
Page 38: Hardware Overview
Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Hardware overview About this topic This topic describes the hardware features of the BenchCel device. Note that the diagrams in this topic show a BenchCel device with two stacker racks only. All the major components and functions are the same for devices with four and six stacker racks.
Page 39 Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Feature Description Safety shield The clear acrylic panel that is installed on the front of the BenchCel device to restrict access while it is in operation. !! INJURY HAZARD !! Do not operate the workstation without the safety shield.
Page 40 Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Feature Description Robot grippers The structures inside the robot arms that close and open to hold and release a microplate. Using the provided software, you can adjust the distance between the grippers to hold a microplate loosely or tightly.
Page 41 Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Feature Description Air-input fitting Connects the air tubing to the BenchCel device. Compressed air is used to actuate components inside the stacker head. Power switch Turns on or off the power to the BenchCel device. AC power entry Connects the power cord to the BenchCel device.
Page 42 Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide The following table lists and describes the various components inside the stacker head. Feature Description Plate-presence Detects the presence of a microplate in the stack. One sensor plate-presence sensor is on the back wall of each stacker head.
Page 43 Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Feature Description Plate-orientation Detect the presence of notches in microplates. Four sensors sensors are in the inside corners of each stacker head. For details of how the sensors work, see “Adjusting the plate-orientation sensors”...
Page 44 Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Feature Description Shelves Provide leveling surfaces for the microplates, thus ensuring accurate robot gripping, during the downstacking process. Two shelves (four leveling surfaces) are inside each stacker head. Compressed air is used to extend and retract the shelves.
Page 45 Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Related topics For more information about... See... BenchCel Workstation description “BenchCel Workstation description” on page 2 Accessories “Accessories” on page 12 Integration options “Integration options” on page 14 Automation-ready labware “Labware considerations”...
Page 46: Accessories
Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Accessories About this topic Accessories provide a function without performing tasks themselves. For example, you can temporarily place a microplate on a platepad accessory. This topic lists the accessories that are compatible with the BenchCel Workstation.
Page 47 Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Related topics For more information about... See... Integration options “Integration options” on page 14 Automation-ready labware “Labware considerations” on page 16 Safety information “Safety information” on page 22 Installation requirements “Verifying laboratory requirements”...
Page 48: Integration Options
Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Integration options About this topic You can integrate Velocity11 and some third-party devices with the BenchCel device to create a BenchCel Workstation. The BenchCel robot can move microplates to and from these devices as specified by the protocol you create.
Page 49 Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Device Description VSpin Access2 Auto Loading Centrifuges microplates. Microplate Centrifuge Bravo Automated Liquid Dispenses liquids. Handling Platform Note: Because the PlatePierce Seal Piercing Station does not extend microplates all the way out of the piercing chamber, it cannot be integrated with the BenchCel device.
Page 50: Labware Considerations
Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Labware considerations About this topic This topic provides guidelines for selecting automation-ready labware for use in the BenchCel Workstation. Acceptable Use only labware that meet the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards.
Page 51 Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Challenging Microplates that have the following characteristics might require additional setup time to ensure repeatable performance for the microplate BenchCel Workstation: characteristics Microplate material. Although you can adjust the robot grip distance to compensate for a microplate’s flexibility, some microplates are too soft and tend to bend in the robot grippers (for example, low-profile polypropylene PCR microplates).
Page 52: Software Description
Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Software description About this topic This topic describes the software you use to set up, control, and troubleshoot the BenchCel Workstation. BenchWorks The BenchWorks Automation Control software (or BenchWorks software) allows you to: Automation Control software Set up the BenchCel Workstation.
Page 53 Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide BenchCel ActiveX Included with the BenchWorks software is the BenchCel ActiveX control that allows the BenchCel Workstation to interact with any Velocity11 or control third-party lab automation system. For information about the BenchCel ActiveX control, see “BenchCel ActiveX control”...
Page 54 Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Diagnose problems. Moving and adjusting individual hardware components allow you to diagnose and troubleshoot problems. For information on diagnosing and troubleshooting problems, see “Diagnostic tools” on page 105. While testing new or troubleshooting labware definitions, you can change parameters to refine the labware definition.
Page 55 Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Related topics For more information about... See... BenchWorks software instructions BenchWorks Automation Control User Guide Software installation instructions BenchWorks Automation Control User Guide Workstation setup procedure “Setup Workflow” on page 50 BenchCel ActiveX control “BenchCel ActiveX control”...
Page 56: Safety Information
Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Safety information Introduction This topic provides information for the safe operation of the BenchCel Workstation. Before using the Before using a BenchCel Workstation, your organization should make sure that you are properly trained in: BenchCel Workstation General laboratory safety...
Page 57 Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide General precautions !! INJURY HAZARD !! Do not remove the BenchCel device covers or otherwise disassemble the device. Doing so can cause injuries and damage the device. !! INJURY HAZARD !! Using controls, making adjustments, or performing procedures other than those specified in this user guide can expose you to high pressure gases and moving parts.
Page 58 Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Infrared LED injury !! INJURY HAZARD !! Looking directly at the light-emitting diodes (LEDs) inside the stacker heads can cause eye injury. hazard Each BenchCel device stacker head contains seven infrared LEDs that detect the presence of a stacker rack, microplates, and microplate notches.
Page 59 Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Related topics For more information about... See... BenchCel Workstation hardware “Hardware overview” on page 4 description Connection panel location and “Hardware overview” on page 4 description Turning on and turning off the “Starting up and shutting down the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Workstation”...
Page 60 Chapter 1: Introduction BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide...
Page 61: Chapter 2. Unpacking And Installing The Workstation
Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Unpacking and installing the workstation This chapter describes how to unpack and set up the BenchCel Workstation. All of the procedures in this chapter can be performed by someone with operator privileges.
Page 62: Installation Workflow
Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Installation workflow About this topic This topic presents the workflow for unpacking the BenchCel device and installing the BenchCel Workstation. Workflow The following table presents the steps for unpacking and installing the BenchCel Workstation.
Page 63: Verifying Laboratory Requirements
Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Verifying laboratory requirements Laboratory space General bench requirements Make sure the bench for the BenchCel Workstation has the following: Proximity to power and air sources Enough space to accommodate the complete configuration of your BenchCel Workstation, which includes the number and size of stacks, computer, and external devices Sufficient clearance on the back side of the BenchCel Workstation to...
Page 64 Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Electrical The BenchCel device has the following power requirements. For power requirements of other devices in the workstation, see the device user documentation. Utility Requirement Electrical 100–240~, 50/60 Hz, 5 A ×...
Page 65 Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Computer The BenchCel device is shipped with a computer that controls the BenchCel Workstation operations. The computer has all the necessary software and is configured to operate the BenchCel Workstation. !! IMPORTANT !! Velocity11 recommends that you use the supplied computer, because it is set up and tested for BenchCel Workstation operations.
Page 66: Unpacking And Inspecting The Benchcel Device
Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Unpacking and inspecting the BenchCel device About this topic This topic explains how to unpack the BenchCel device and lists the items that are included with the device. Unpacking When unpacking the BenchCel device, be sure to: precautions...
Page 67 Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Inspecting the After you unpack the BenchCel device, check that you have the items in the following diagram. Inspect the items to make sure you have contents everything shown.
Page 68 Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Related topics For more information about... See... Installation requirements “Verifying laboratory requirements” on page 29 Installing the BenchCel “Integrating the devices” on Workstation page 35 “Connecting the power source” on page 39 “Connecting the pendant”...
Page 69: Integrating The Devices
Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Integrating the devices About this topic After you unpack the system components, you can arrange the BenchCel and external devices on the benchtop in preparation for integration.
Page 70 Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide The following diagram shows the location of the left clamp screw. An identical screw is located on the right side of the device. Loosen screw. 2. Mount the external device on its integration plate. Tighten the bolts or screws to secure the device on the integration plate.
Page 71 Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 4. Slightly tighten the BenchCel device integration plate clamp screw using the 3-mm hex wrench. You will not tighten the screw all the way until the devices are correctly aligned. Tighten slightly so that the plate can still move.
Page 72 Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide For more information about... See... Installing the BenchCel “Installation workflow” on page 28 Workstation “Connecting the power source” on page 39 “Connecting the pendant” on page 40 “Connecting and disconnecting the air source”...
Page 73: Connecting The Power Source
Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Connecting the power source About this topic This topic explains how to connect the BenchCel device to a grounded power source. Before you start Make sure you have the supplied power cord. Connecting the To connect the BenchCel device to a grounded power source: power source...
Page 74: Connecting The Pendant
Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Connecting the pendant About this topic Designed to protect you from moving-part hazards while the BenchCel Workstation is in operation, the pendant is part of the safety interlock circuit that must be closed for the BenchCel Workstation to operate.
Page 75: Connecting And Disconnecting The Air Source
Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Connecting and disconnecting the air source About this topic Compressed air is used to move parts inside the BenchCel device. This topic explains how to connect the BenchCel device to the air source and check the connections for leaks before use.
Page 76 Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Checking the air To check the air connections: connections 1. With the air source turned off, gently tug the air tubing at each connection. If you feel resistance at the connection, the tubing has been properly installed.
Page 77 Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Related topics For more information about... See... Air source requirements “Verifying laboratory requirements” on page 29 How to set up the BenchCel “Setup Workflow” on page 50 Workstation How to operate the BenchCel “Workflow for performing a run”...
Page 78: Connecting The Computer
Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Connecting the computer About this topic You need a computer to operate the BenchCel Workstation and external devices. This topic explains how to connect the controlling computer to the BenchCel device.
Page 79 Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 3. Ethernet connection only. Do the following: a. Connect one end of the Ethernet cable to the back of the BenchCel device. b. Connect the free end of the Ethernet cable to any available port on the Ethernet switch.
Page 80 Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Related topics For more information about... See... The controlling computer “Verifying laboratory requirements” on requirements page 29 The Ethernet switch See the Ethernet switch user documentation How to set up the BenchCel “Setup Workflow”...
Page 81: Installing The Safety Shield
Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Installing the safety shield About this topic This topic explains how to install the safety shield on the front of the BenchCel device. Before you start Make sure you have the following: M3 hex wrench Low-head M5 screws (supplied)
Page 82 Chapter 2: Unpacking and installing the workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide...
Page 83: Chapter 3. Setting Up The Benchcel Workstation
Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Setting up the BenchCel Workstation This chapter explains how to set up the BenchCel Workstation for operation. This chapter contains the following topics: “Setup Workflow” on page 50 “Starting up and shutting down the BenchCel Workstation”...
Page 84: Setup Workflow
Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Setup Workflow About this topic This topic presents the workflow for setting up the BenchCel Workstation for operation. Workflow The following table presents the steps for setting up the BenchCel Workstation.
Page 85 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Related topics For more information about... See... Installation procedure “Installation workflow” on page 28 Operating the BenchCel “Workflow for performing a run” on Workstation page 82 Troubleshooting problems “Maintenance and troubleshooting”...
Page 86: Starting Up And Shutting Down The Benchcel Workstation
Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Starting up and shutting down the BenchCel Workstation About this topic This topic explains how to start up and shutdown the BenchCel Workstation. Starting up the !! INJURY HAZARD !! Keep your fingers, hair, clothing, and jewelry away from the BenchCel Workstation while it is in motion.
Page 87 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Shutting down the Shut down the BenchCel Workstation if you intend to: BenchCel Leave it unused for a long period of time. Workstation Service the device. Move it to another location.
Page 88: Creating And Deleting A Benchcel Device In Benchworks
Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Creating and deleting a BenchCel device in BenchWorks About this topic The computer you purchased from Velocity11 is set up with the correct device configuration to communicate with the BenchCel Workstation. You do not need to create new BenchCel devices unless you want to reference different profiles or use a different teachpoint file.
Page 89 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Creating a device If you are setting up the BenchCel Workstation for the first time, you will need to create a new device file, and then add the BenchCel device and file other devices to this file.
Page 90 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Adding a BenchCel To add a BenchCel device: device 1. In the Device Manager Device List area, click New Device. Click New Device. The New Device dialog box opens. 2.
Page 91 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 3. Click OK to return to the BenchWorks window. The device configuration information appears in the Device Properties area. The Device Properties area displays the device configuration information. 4.
Page 92 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 5. In the Device Properties area, click Profile name, and then select the profile you want to use. If this is the first time you are setting up the BenchCel Workstation, or if no profile appears in the list, see “Creating and managing profiles”...
Page 93 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Deleting a device To delete a BenchCel device in the BenchWorks software: 1. In the BenchWorks window, click the Device Manager tab. 2. In the Device List area, select the device you want to delete. 3.
Page 94: Creating And Managing Profiles
Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Creating and managing profiles About this topic The computer you purchased from Velocity11 is set up with the correct profile to communicate with the BenchCel Workstation. You do not need to create new BenchCel profiles unless you want to set up unique communication settings or use a different teachpoint file.
Page 95 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Creating BenchCel To create a BenchCel profile: Workstation profiles 1. In the Device Manager Device List area, select a BenchCel device. 2. Click Device diagnostics. Click to open BenchCel Diagnostics. The BenchCel Diagnostics dialog box opens and displays the Controls tab.
Page 96 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 3. Click the Profiles tab. 4. Click Create a new Profile . The Create Profile dialog box opens. Click to create new profile. 5. Type a name, and click OK . 6.
Page 97 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 7. If you selected an Ethernet connection, click Find available device to select the device to associate with the profile. In the Discovered BioNet Devices dialog box that opens: a.
Page 98 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 8. If you selected a serial (COM) connection, select Use flow control to stop the flow of data from the computer before it overruns the device communication buffer. Velocity11 recommends that you select this option to optimize communication over the serial connection.
Page 99 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Click to create or select a teachpoint file. When you are finished, the teachpoint file path appears in the Teachpoint File area. The new or selected teachpoint file path appears.
Page 100: Setting And Managing Teachpoints
Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Setting and managing teachpoints About this topic This topic explains how to set teachpoints. Teachpoints A teachpoint is a set of coordinates that define where the robot can pick up or place labware.
Page 101 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide !! DAMAGE HAZARD !! Before you begin changing teachpoints, make a backup copy of the teachpoint file. If the original teachpoint file becomes lost or damaged, you can use the backup copy instead of resetting all the teachpoints and creating a new file.
Page 102 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 3. In the Device List area, select a BenchCel device and click Device diagnostics. The BenchCel Diagnostics dialog box opens. 4. In the Profile tab, check the Teachpoint File area to make sure the correct teachpoint file is loaded.
Page 103 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 6. In the graphical display area, click Stacker n at the top of the rack that contains the spare microplates. In the command menu that appears, click Load Stack. The BenchCel device moves the stack down and holds it in the stacker grippers.
Page 104 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 8. In the BenchCel Diagnostics Controls tab, click the Jog/Teach tab. 9. Click Go Home. The robot head moves to its home position at the center of the BenchCel Workstation. 10.
Page 105 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 12. To fine-tune the teachpoint until you are able to place the microplate in the target location, use the following methods: Visually inspect the position of the microplate relative to the plate stage.
Page 106 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide To record the coordinates in BenchCel Workstation Diagnostics: 1. In the BenchCel Diagnostics Controls Jog/Teach tab, click New Teachpoint. The Teachpoint Details dialog box opens. 2. Click Use current positions. The robot’s current coordinates fills the Theta, X, and Z boxes.
Page 107 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Setting Comment Theta The angle that the robot arms are from their home position, in degrees. A positive value moves the arms counterclockwise from the home position. A negative value moves the arms are clockwise from the home position.
Page 108 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Setting Comment Approach height Type the height clearance (in millimeters) the robot must maintain above the teachpoint as it moves towards or away from the teachpoint location. The valid range is from 0 mm to 40 mm.
Page 109 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Setting Comment Open gripper Type the maximum distance (in millimeters) the limit robot grippers are allowed to open as they prepare to grip the microplate at the teachpoint. The maximum value you set is less than or equal to the Robot Gripper Open Position value set in the BenchCel Diagnostics Controls Labware tab.
Page 110 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 4. Click Save and exit to save the teachpoint in the teachpoint file and close the Teachpoint Details dialog box. In the BenchCel Diagnostics dialog box, the new teachpoint appears in the graphical display area as a plus sign ( Teachpoints that specify labware pickup and placement locations at external devices.
Page 111 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 8. Save the device file. Verifying the To verify a teachpoint: teachpoints 1. Load two to three spare microplates in the stacker rack and load the rack on the BenchCel device.
Page 112 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 5. In the graphical display area of the BenchCel Diagnostics dialog box, click the stack that contains the spare microplates. In the command menu that appears, click Transfer to <teachpoint name>, where <teachpoint name>...
Page 113 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Editing existing When you set a teachpoint for the first time, you will likely set, verify, and edit the teachpoint a number of times to make sure the teachpoint is teachpoints correct.
Page 114 Chapter 3: Setting up the BenchCel Workstation BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Locking the device After you finish setting the teachpoint and verified that it is accurate, you can lock all the devices in their positions. positions To lock the devices in their positions: 1.
Page 115: Chapter 4. Performing A Run
Chapter 4: Performing a run BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Performing a run This chapter describes how to run an existing protocol on the BenchCel Workstation. All of the procedures in this chapter can be performed by someone with operator privileges. This chapter contains the following topics: “Workflow for performing a run”...
Page 116: Workflow For Performing A Run
Chapter 4: Performing a run BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Workflow for performing a run About this topic This topic presents the workflow for operating the BenchCel Workstation. Workflow The following table lists the steps for operating the BenchCel Workstation.
Page 117: Performing Pre-Run Checks
Chapter 4: Performing a run BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Performing pre-run checks About this topic Before you start a protocol run, you should check the BenchCel Workstation to ensure optimum operation. This topic provides the list you should check before each protocol run. Procedure To check that the BenchCel Workstation is ready for a run: 1.
Page 118: Loading And Unloading Labware
Chapter 4: Performing a run BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Loading and unloading labware About this topic This topic explains how to load labware into and unload labware from the BenchCel Workstation stacker racks. Loading microplates To load microplates into a stacker rack: into a stacker rack While standing at the front of the stacker rack, place microplates in the stacker rack so that the A1 well is in the upper left corner.
Page 119: Installing And Removing Stacker Racks
Chapter 4: Performing a run BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Installing and removing stacker racks About this topic This topic explains how to install and remove stacker racks. Installing racks !! IMPORTANT !! Make sure the power and compressed air are turned on before you install a stacker rack.
Page 120 Chapter 4: Performing a run BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Removing racks !! IMPORTANT !! Make sure the power and compressed air are turned on when unloading a stacker rack. To remove a stacker rack from the BenchCel device: 1.
Page 121 Chapter 4: Performing a run BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Related topics For information about... See... Turning on the power and air “Starting up and shutting down the BenchCel Workstation” on page 52 Automation-ready labware “Labware considerations” on page 16 Loading labware into the stacker “Loading and unloading labware”...
Page 122: Stopping The Benchcel Device In An Emergency
Chapter 4: Performing a run BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Stopping the BenchCel device in an emergency About this topic This topic explains how to stop the BenchCel device in an emergency situation. To pause and continue a run, use the Pause command in the BenchWorks software.
Page 123: Cleaning Up After A Protocol Run
Chapter 4: Performing a run BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Cleaning up after a protocol run About this topic This topic describes the tasks you should perform when you have finished a protocol run. Procedure To clean up after a run: 1.
Page 124 Chapter 4: Performing a run BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide...
Page 125: Chapter 5. Maintenance And Troubleshooting
Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Maintenance and troubleshooting This chapter tells you how to maintain your BenchCel device and provides troubleshooting information. This chapter contains the following topics: “Routine maintenance” on page 92 “Hardware problems”...
Page 126: Routine Maintenance
Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Routine maintenance About this topic This topic provides recommendations for maintaining the BenchCel device. After every run Make sure you: Immediately clean up spilled liquids. Check the x-axis tracks to make sure it is free of debris. X-axis tracks Monthly inspection In general, practice good housekeeping by cleaning up spills and...
Page 127 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Moving parts to make sure they are not rubbing against each other. Look for rub marks or noises that might indicate rubbing. If you see rub marks, contact Velocity11 Technical Support. Check for visible rub marks on the front panel.
Page 128 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Related topics For information about... See... Cleanup procedure after every “Cleaning up after a protocol run” on protocol run page 89 Air source requirements “Compressed air” on page 30 Checking and adjusting the “Adjusting the stacker gripper pressure”...
Page 129: Hardware Problems
Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Hardware problems About this topic This topic lists possible hardware problems, the causes of the problems, and ways to resolve the problems. If you are still experiencing problems with the BenchCel Workstation after trying the solutions, contact Velocity11 Technical Support.
Page 130 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Problem Cause Solution The microplate bends The stacker gripper pressure is too Decrease the stacker gripper pressure. when held by the high so that the grippers are holding See “Adjusting the stacker gripper stacker grippers.
Page 131: Software Error Messages
Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Software error messages About this topic This topic lists possible software error messages, the causes of the errors, and ways to resolve the errors. If you are still experiencing problems with the BenchCel Workstation after trying the solutions, contact Velocity11 Technical Support.
Page 132 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Error message Cause Solution Flash operation not The robot could not write to its flash In the error message dialog box, click successful memory. Retry. If clicking Retry does not resolve the problem, restart the BenchCel device.
Page 133 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Error message Cause Solution Plate is rotated The microplate is loaded in the Check the microplate orientation wrong orientation. (notch selections) in the Labware Editor or in BenchCel Diagnostics. Make sure you load the microplates in the rack accordingly.
Page 134 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Error message Cause Solution Rack not present The stacker rack is not installed on Install the stacker rack. See “Installing the BenchCel device. and removing stacker racks” on page 85 for the procedure.
Page 135 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Error message Cause Solution Theta position out of The robot is commanded to move Check the teachpoint theta-axis value bounds out of its range on the theta-axis. to make sure it is not beyond the factory-set limits.
Page 136 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Error message Cause Solution Wrong plate type The microplate in the stack is Check the labware selected in the different from the labware selected Labware Editor or in the BenchCel in the software.
Page 137: Recovering From An Emergency Stop
Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Recovering from an emergency stop About this topic After you press the robot disable button on the pendant, the robot stops. One of the following occurs: If you stopped a protocol run, a prompt dialog box opens in the BenchWorks software.
Page 138 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide For a full description of the selections, see the BenchWorks Automation Control User Guide. 5. Optional. In BenchCel Diagnostics, use the available commands to manually move the robot or other components, including: Release the microplate that the robot is currently holding.
Page 139: Diagnostic Tools
Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Diagnostic tools About this topic The BenchCel Diagnostics software has three tabs: Controls, General Settings, Profile. You use the command and parameters available in the Controls and General Settings tabs when troubleshooting problems. This topic explains how to use the commands and parameters in the Controls and General Settings tabs to do the following: “Sending the robot to the home position”...
Page 140: Homing The Robot
Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Homing the robot Homing the robot sends the robot to the factory-defined home position for each axis of motion. The homing process recalibrates the robot position along each axis. Home the robot if you notice that the robot is not accurately picking up or placing plates.
Page 141: Jogging The Robot
Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide To enable the robot motors: In the Motor Enabled area: Select the motor you want to enable: X, Z, or Theta. Click Enable all. Jogging the robot Jogging the robot moves the robot and robot grippers in small, precise increments along one of the axes.
Page 142: Changing The Robot Speed
Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Changing the robot You can select the robot speed to accommodate the task you are performing. For example, you can select the Slow speed when you are speed creating new teachpoints, creating and testing protocols, or diagnosing problems with the system.
Page 143 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide To set the Slow, Medium, and Fast speeds as a percentage of the factory-set maximum speed: 1. In the General Settings tab, click Speed Settings. Click to set speeds. The Speed Settings dialog box opens.
Page 144: Moving Plates Between Teachpoints
Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Moving plates You can move a microplate between teachpoints when you are verifying a teachpoint or to check if you need to home the motors. between teachpoints !! DAMAGE HAZARD !! To prevent collision, remove obstacles in the path of the robot.
Page 145: Locking And Unlocking Stacks
Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Command Description Transfer to Moves a microplate from the currently selected teachpoint to the other selected teachpoint. <teachpoint> To transfer a microplate from a stack, you must first click Load Stacker n.
Page 146 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide To use the Unlock command in BenchCel Diagnostics: 1. In the BenchCel Diagnostics Controls tab, click Stacker n at the top of the rack that you want to unload. The command menu appears. 2.
Page 147: Opening And Closing Clamps
Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Opening and closing The clamps in the stacker head close and open the grippers at the bottom of the stacker rack to hold and release the first plate in position clamps for the robot grippers.
Page 148: Extending And Retracting Shelves
Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Extending and The shelves in the stacker head are used to hold the stack of labware temporarily during the downstacking and upstacking processes. Resting retracting shelves the microplates on the shelves levels the microplates, allowing the robot grippers to accurately hold the microplate at the specified offset position.
Page 149: Changing Labware Parameters
Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Changing labware When testing new or troubleshooting existing labware definitions, you can use BenchCel Diagnostics to make changes to some of the labware parameters parameters without opening Labware Editor. For example, you can change the stacking thickness, gripper offsets, notch specification, and lid specifications.
Page 150 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 3. In the Plate Dimensions (mm) area, type a new value for the following: Parameter Description Thickness The distance, in millimeters, from the bottom surface of the microplate to the top surface of the microplate.
Page 151 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 4. In the Sensors area, type a new value for the following: Parameter Description Orientation threshold The value that determines the presence of a microplate notch. If the sensor value is below this threshold, the device reports a notch in the corner corresponding to the...
Page 152 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 5. In the Plate offsets (mm) area, type a new value for the following: Parameter Description Robot gripper The distance, in millimeters, from the bottom of a offset microplate to where the robot grippers will hold the microplate.
Page 153 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Parameter Description Gripper holding The distance, in millimeters, that each gripper stack position moves from its home position when holding a microplate that is in a stack. A larger value moves the grippers closer together and holds the microplate tighter.
Page 154 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Parameter Description Lid departure The height, in millimeters, above the bottom of the height plate to which the lid is lifted. Gripper holding lid The distance, in millimeters, that each gripper position moves inward from its home position when holding a microplate lid.
Page 155: Changing The General Settings
Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 10. When are you finished making the changes, click Apply and save labware parameters. Click to save changes. Changing the !! DAMAGE HAZARD !! Be careful when changing the general settings.
Page 156 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 2. In the Stack Settings area, type a new value for the parameter you want to change. Setting Comment Plate presence threshold The value above which a plate is considered present at the plate- presence sensor.
Page 157 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Related topics For more information about... See... Hardware problems “Hardware problems” on page 95 Software error messages “Software error messages” on page 97 Defining labware in BenchWorks BenchWorks Automation Control User Guide Teachpoints “Setting and managing teachpoints”...
Page 158: Adjusting The Plate-Orientation Sensors
Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Adjusting the plate-orientation sensors About this topic One of the causes of the “Wrong plate type” error message is the plate- orientation sensors are not able to detect the microplate notches correctly.
Page 159 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide The amount of light that the sensor receives is displayed in the BenchCel Diagnostics Controls tab. The microplate corners that have notches should have much lower readings than the corners that do not have notches.
Page 160 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 4. In the graphical display area, click Stacker n at the top of the rack that contains the spare microplates. In the command menu that appears, click Load Plates. The BenchCel device moves the first microplate from the top of the stacker grippers and places it on the shelves.
Page 161 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 6. In the graphical display area, at the stack where you have downstacked the first microplate, click Move to Sensor. The robot moves the microplate into the line of sight of the plate-orientation sensors.
Page 162 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 9. In the Plate Offsets (mm) area, in the Orientation Sensor Offset box, type the sum of the following: The distance (in millimeters) that is halfway between the top of the microplate and the top of the skirt.
Page 163 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 3. In the Stacker Sensors area, type a new value in the Intensity (all sensors) box. Change the sensor intensity. Increase the intensity if the sensor values are too low (for example, lower than 10).
Page 164 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide For example, if the notch signal is 161 and the regular corner signal is 236, you can set the threshold at 200. Change the sensor threshold. Related topics For more information about...
Page 165: Adjusting The Stacker Gripper Pressure
Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Adjusting the stacker gripper pressure About this topic This topic explains how to check the stacker gripper pressure (internal air pressure) and how to adjust it. Stacker gripper Compressed air is used to move the clamps that open and close the stacker rack grippers and the shelves that level the microplates.
Page 166 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 2. In the Device List area, select a BenchCel device and click Device diagnostics. The BenchCel Diagnostics dialog box opens. 3. Click the Controls tab, and then click the Jog/Teach tab. 4.
Page 167 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 3. Turn the air pressure regulator knob. Turning the knob clockwise increases the internal air pressure. Turning the knob counterclockwise decreases the internal air pressure. Turn to adjust pressure. 4.
Page 168 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide 6. When you are finished, place the cover on the front of the BenchCel device. Related topics For information about... See... Air pressure requirements “Compressed air” on page 30 Hardware problems “Hardware problems”...
Page 169: Reporting Problems
Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Reporting problems About this topic If you have a technical problem that you cannot resolve after reading the maintenance and troubleshooting instructions, read the information in this topic for how to report hardware, software, and user guide problems.
Page 170 Chapter 5: Maintenance and troubleshooting BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide You can find the BenchCel Diagnostics software version number in the software. To do this: 1. Open BenchCel Diagnostics. 2. Read the version number on the title bar. Sending files When resolving software bugs or other problems, send the following files:...
Page 171: Chapter A. Benchcel Activex Control
Appendix A: BenchCel ActiveX control BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide BenchCel ActiveX control This chapter gives integrators the ActiveX control information they need to integrate another company’s lab automation device into the BenchCel Workstation. The ActiveX has been verified to work with both Visual Studio 6 and Visual Studio .NET (v 7.1).
Page 172: About Activex Controls
Appendix A: BenchCel ActiveX control BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide About ActiveX controls What is the The BenchCel ActiveX control is the software component that allows the BenchCel device to interact with any Velocity11 or a third-party lab BenchCel ActiveX automation system.
Page 173: Properties
Appendix A: BenchCel ActiveX control BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Properties IPictureDisp* Description ControlPicture Read-only property that the client can use to get an icon to represent the ActiveX control. This example paints a BenchCel bitmap over a button. Visual C++ example /*The CPicture class is imported into your project when the ActiveX is installed*/...
Page 174 Appendix A: BenchCel ActiveX control BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Errors will be indicated through one of two means; 1) the return value might not be S_OK (0), in this case, no event will be fired; 2) an error event is fired.
Page 175: Methods
Appendix A: BenchCel ActiveX control BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Methods void AboutBox() Description Shows a small window that indicates some version information. Parameters None Returns None Visual C++ example BenchCel.AboutBox() Visual Basic example m_BenchCel.AboutBox(); BSTR GetVersion () Description Method to programmatically retrieve the version of the ActiveX.
Page 176 Appendix A: BenchCel ActiveX control BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Visual C++ example LONG1Result = m_BenchCel.Initialize("ethernet"); Visual Basic example LONG1Result = BenchCel.Initialize("ethernet") LONG Description ShowDiagsDialog(BO Method to show the graphical diagnostics menu that allows the user to OL bModal, SHORT troubleshoot and correct problems.
Page 177 Appendix A: BenchCel ActiveX control BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide BSTR GetLastError() Description Method to retrieve a text message explaining the last error. This method can be called in blocking mode, after a command returns with a failure code, or in non-blocking mode, after the Error event has been fired.
Page 178 Appendix A: BenchCel ActiveX control BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide LONG Ignore() Description Method to ignore the previously issued error. This is not a recommended course of action, as the errors are issued for a reason. However, ignoring some errors, such as “Plate is rotated”, can be appropriate if the operator understands the implications.
Page 179 Appendix A: BenchCel ActiveX control BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Visual C++ example 1Result = m_BenchCel.PickAndPlace("Stacker 1", "PlateLoc", FALSE, 2) Visual Basic example 1Result = BenchCel.PickAndPlace("Stacker 1", "PlateLoc", FALSE, 2) VARIANT Description GetTeachpointName Method to retrieve the teachpoints known to the device. This method must be called after initialization is complete and it returns an array of available teachpoints, including the stackers.
Page 180 Appendix A: BenchCel ActiveX control BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Visual C++ example 1Result = m_BenchCel.ProtocolStart(); Visual Basic example 1Result = BenchCel.ProtocolStart() LONG Description ProtocolFinish() Method to be called at the end of a run. The device might home during this call.
Page 181 Appendix A: BenchCel ActiveX control BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide LONG Description GetStackCount(LON Method to retrieve the number of stacks on the BenchCel device. This G *pCount) method must be called after a successful connection in order for it to indicate the current number.
Page 182 Appendix A: BenchCel ActiveX control BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide LONG Description IsPlatePresent(SHO Method to test whether a stack has a microplate and is loaded. If the RT sStack, [in, out] stack is not loaded, the result returned through pPresent will not be VARIANT_BOOL* meaningful.
Page 183 Appendix A: BenchCel ActiveX control BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Returns S_OK if successful, other value otherwise. Visual C++ example 1Result = m_BenchCel.ReleaseStack(0); Visual Basic example 1Result = BenchCel.ReleaseStack(0) LONG Description LoadStack(SHORT Method to release a stack. To downstack from or upstack to a stack, the sStack) stack must be loaded.
Page 184 Appendix A: BenchCel ActiveX control BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide LONG Description ShowLabwareEditor( Method to display the labware editor graphical user interface. Through BOOL bModal, BSTR this interface dialog, the user can specify labware parameters that will bstrLabware) be used by the device to handle the microplates.
Page 185 Appendix A: BenchCel ActiveX control BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide LONG OpenClamp() Description Method used to open the stacker grippers of a given stack. Parameters Argument Argument Range Description Type Name SHORT Stack 0 – (number of Specify which stack’s gripper Stacks –...
Page 186 Appendix A: BenchCel ActiveX control BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide LONG Relid() Description Method used to put a lid on a microplate. You will need to specify where the lid is located and where the microplate is located. If the first RelidFrom argument is blank, then it is expected that the robot is holding the lid.
Page 187 Appendix A: BenchCel ActiveX control BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Visual Basic example LabwareNames = BenchCel.GetLabwareNames For i = LBound(labwareNames) To UBound(labwareNames) MsgBox labwareNames(i) Next VARIANT Description EnumerateProfiles() Method to retrieve a list of defined profiles. The strings in this array are the options that should be used for Initialize.
Page 188 Appendix A: BenchCel ActiveX control BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide...
Page 189: Appendix B. Quick Reference
Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Quick reference This appendix provides a quick reference of the following: “Rack-release button indicator light” on page 156 “BenchCel Diagnostics - Controls tab” on page 157 “BenchCel Diagnostics - General Settings tab” on page 168 “BenchCel Diagnostics - Profiles tab”...
Page 190: Rack-Release Button Indicator Light
Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide Rack-release button indicator light The rack-release button at the top of each stacker head displays different colors to indicate the status of the adjacent stacker rack. The following table lists the possible colors and the corresponding status description. Indicator lights Light color Meaning...
Page 191: Benchcel Diagnostics - Controls Tab
Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide BenchCel Diagnostics - Controls tab Graphical display area Selection or command Description Labware The list of defined labware. Editor The command that opens the Labware Editor dialog box. Plates have lids The selection that indicates the labware you selected for processing have lids.
Page 192 Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide Selection or command Description Stacker n - Close stacker Closes the clamps that close the stacker gripper grippers in the stacker rack. Stacker n - Extend shelf Extends the shelf at the specified stack. Stacker n - Retract shelf Retracts the shelf at the specified stack.
Page 193 Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide Jog/Teach tab Stacker Sensors area Setting, status, or Description command Stacker list The stacker identifier, numbered from left to right. For example, to select the left-most stacker, select 1. Plate The plate-presence sensor reading. Air (psi) The internal air pressure measurement, in psi.
Page 194 Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide Setting, status, or Description command Orientation threshold The value that determines the presence of a microplate notch. A notch is present if the value is below this value. If the sensor value is above this threshold, no notch is reported.
Page 195 Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide Command Description Opens the robot grippers by the specified grip increment. Closes the robot grippers by the specified grip increment. Full Open Opens the robot grippers to the Robot Gripper Open Position value set in the Labware tab.
Page 196 Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide Labware tab Commands Command Description Save and Apply Labware Saves the updated settings in the tab. Parameters...
Page 197 Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide Plate Dimensions area Parameters Description Thickness The distance, in millimeters, from the bottom surface of the plate to the top surface of the plate. For a tip box, this is the distance from the bottom surface of the box to the top of the tips.
Page 198 Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide Sensors area Parameters Description Orientation threshold The value that determines the presence of a microplate notch. A notch is present if the value is below this value. If the sensor value is above this threshold, no notch is reported. The default value is 100.
Page 199 Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide Robot Gripper Positions (mm) area Parameters Description Gripper open position The distance, in millimeters, that each gripper moves from its home position as the robot releases a microplate. A larger value moves the grippers closer together. A smaller value opens the grippers wider.
Page 200 Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide Notch Locations (mm) area Options Description Verify Notches The switch that turns on or turns off the plate- orientation sensors. Select the option to turn on the sensors. Clear the check box to turn off the sensors.
Page 201 Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide Parameters Description Lid gripper offset The height, in millimeters, above the lid resting height at which to grip the lid. (Shown as b below.) Lid resting height The height, in millimeters, above the bottom of the plate at which the bottom of a plate lid rests.
Page 202: Benchcel Diagnostics - General Settings Tab
Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide BenchCel Diagnostics - General Settings tab Parameters Description Plate presence threshold Any value at or higher than this means a microplate is present. Below this value means there is no microplate. Rack sensor threshold Any value at or higher than this means a rack is present.
Page 203 Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide Parameters Description Show current settings Displays the parameter values that were last saved. Write settings to file Allows you to save the Advanced Settings information to a file. Apply Applies the changes so that the new values are used.
Page 204: Benchcel Diagnostics - Profiles Tab
Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide BenchCel Diagnostics - Profiles tab Profile Management area Selections and commands Description Profile list The list of profiles. Create a new profile Creates a new profile. Create a copy of this profile Creates a duplicate copy of the selected profile.
Page 205 Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide Connection area Selections and commands Description Connection list The list of connection types: Ethernet or Serial (COM) port. Find available device Ethernet connection only. The command that opens the Discovered BioNet Devices dialog box.
Page 206: Teachpoint Details Dialog Box
Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide Teachpoint Details dialog box Parameter or command Description Name A name for the teachpoint. For example, if the teachpoint is on an integrated VCode, you might want to name the teachpoint VCode. This name appears in the graphical display area in the BenchCel Diagnostics dialog box.
Page 207 Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide Parameter or command Description Use current positions The command that reads the robot’s current coordinates and writes them in the Theta, X, and Z boxes. Approach height The height clearance (in millimeters) the robot maintains above the teachpoint as it moves towards or away from the teachpoint location.
Page 208 Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide Parameter or command Description Cavity depth Note: This setting is not commonly used and should be set at 0 mm for most applications. The depth (in millimeters) below the Z teachpoint coordinate. The valid range is – 35 mm to 0 mm.
Page 209 Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide Parameter or command Description Something is above this The option to limit the robot’s movements point within the robot safe zone. With this selection, the robot will only move along the θ-axis as long as all of its parts (head, arms, and grippers) are within the safe zone when approaching or moving away from the teachpoint.
Page 210 Appendix B: Quick reference BenchCel User Guide...
Page 211: Appendix C. Glossary
Appendix C: Glossary BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Glossary Term Definition clamps The components inside of the stacker head that close and open the stacker grippers during the loading, unloading, downstacking, and upstacking processes. controlling computer The lab automation system computer that controls the devices in the system.
Page 212 Appendix C: Glossary BenchCel User Guide Term Definition safe zone The boundary within which the robot (head, arms, and grippers) is allowed to move without colliding with external devices. shelves The components inside of the stacker head that provide leveling surfaces for the microplates, thus ensuring accurate robot gripping, during the downstacking process.
Page 213: Index
Index BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide Index Note: You can also search our technical documentation on our website at www.velocity11.com. running a protocol, 82 shutting down, 53 AC power entry, 6, 7, 39, 95 stacker head configurations, 2 accessories, 5 starting up, 52 ActiveX...
Page 214 Index BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide devices integration plate defined, 54 accessory, 12 MAC address, 63 described, 35 diagnosing problems, 20 Intensity (all sensors) parameter, 117 dimensions, 29, 32 interlock circuit, 6, 7, 23, 40 downstacking process, 10, 69, 114 IP address, 45 electrical requirements, 30, 95 job roles for readers of this guide, iv...
Page 215 Index BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide moving parts injury hazard, 23 power switch MSDS, 24 location, 6, 7 turning off, 52, 53 turning on, 52 naming convention, device file, 56 pre-run checks, performing, 83 network card, configuring, 45 profiles creating, 61 described, 19...
Page 216 Index BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide high-pressure gas, 24 Stacking thickness parameter, 116, 163 infrared LEDs, 24 startup procedure, 52 interlock circuit, 6, 7, 23, 40 status lights, 5 labels, 22 subnet mask, 45 moving parts, 23 training, 22 safety shield, 33 Teachpoint Details dialog box, 72 described, 5, 23...
Page 217 Index BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide workflows installation, 28 x-axis movement, 5 running a protocol, 82 setup, 50 workspace, described, 75 z-axis movement, 5...
Page 218 Index BenchCel Microplate Handling Workstation R-Series User Guide...
Page 220 Agilent Technologies User Guide G5400-90001...

Agilent Technologies R Series User Manual

Chapter 1. Introduction

Chapter 2. Unpacking and Installing the Workstation

Chapter 3. Setting up the Benchcel Workstation

Chapter 4. Performing a Run

Chapter 5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Appendix B. Quick Reference

Appendix B: Quick Reference

Appendix C. Glossary

Quick Links

Related Manuals for Agilent Technologies R Series

Summary of Contents for Agilent Technologies R Series

Table of Contents