Alpha Detection Test - Biotek Cytation 5 Instructions For Use Manual

92 | Instrument Testing

Alpha Detection Test

This section applies only to models with the alpha module.
For BioTek Service Personnel only: An alternate method for
conducting this test is to follow the Alpha Laser Calibration instructions in
the Cytation 5 Service Manual (PN 1321023). This calibration requires the
use of the EM Mono Efficiency Alpha Jig (PN 7162512 Rev F or higher).
The alpha laser has been factory-calibrated to meet specification. BioTek
Instruments, Inc., has developed a test protocol that can be used with Alphascreen
Omnibeads to verify the functionality of the alpha laser system. Because the detector
for the alpha system is functionally and optically identical to the luminescence
system, the luminescence test may be used to verify detector functionality.
The test is a measure of how well the optical system can distinguish the
Crosstalk
signals emitted from the well being read from those of any adjacent well. This test
also determines the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the test plate and verifies that the
signal is at an acceptable level for the sample material used. The test is designed for
use with Alphascreen Omnibeads, and it is assumed that 96-well plates are used with
100 µL well volumes.
Required Materials
• Recommended test solution, Alphascreen Omnibead Assay kit, available from
PerkinElmer (PN 6760626)
• Buffer: Phosphate-Buffered Saline (PBS), pH 7.2–7.6 (e.g., Sigma tablets, Mfg.
#P4417 or equivalent)
• Clean 96-well solid white microplate
• 15-mL conical-bottom, polypropylene sample tube
• Alpha filter cube
• Gen5 protocols, described on page 94
Test Solutions
Alphascreen Omnibeads are light sensitive. All tests should be performed
under subdued laboratory lighting of less than 100 lux.
1. Prepare the PBS buffer solution:
a. (Optional, but recommended) Using a 0.45-micron filter, filter 200 mL of
deionized or distilled water.
b. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the PBS packaging to create 200
mL, dissolving the necessary amount of PBS into the filtered water.
BioTek Instruments, Inc.