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Thermo Varioskan User Manual

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Varioskan
TM
User Manual
Rev. 2.0
Analyze • Detect • Measure • Control™

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  • Page 1 Varioskan User Manual Rev. 2.0 Analyze • Detect • Measure • Control™...
  • Page 3 Varioskan™ User Manual Rev. 2.0...
  • Page 4 Electron assumes no liability for any errors or omissions, nor for any damages resulting from the application or use of this information. This manual supersedes all previous editions. Thermo Electron shall not be liable for any damages whatsoever arising out of the use or inability to use this product.

  • Page 5: Who Uses This User Manual

    Chapter 5: “Maintenance”. For ordering information, refer to Chapter 9: “Ordering Information”. For more For software-related issues, refer to the SkanIt Software for Varioskan User Manual (Cat. no. N02723). Both the user and software manuals information can be found in PDF format on the SkanIt Software installation CD.

  • Page 6: Safety Symbols And Markings

    Consult instructions for use ▲ Risk of radiation injury ▲ A black label with the following text (Figure 2–3): CAUTION: WARNING: DISCONNECT SUPPLY BEFORE SERVICING and AVERTISSEMENT: COUPER L'ALIMENTATION AVANT L'ENTRETIEN ET LE DEPANNAGE. ▲ 4 Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 7: Warning And Other Markings Used In The Documentation

    Caution Risk of damage to the instrument, other equipment or loss of performance or function in a specific application. ▲ Note Marks a hint, important information that is useful in the optimum operation of the system, or an item of interest. ▲ Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...

  • Page 8: Instrument Safety And Guidelines For Use

    4. Never open any other covers of the Varioskan than the dispenser sliding cover (Figure 2–2) or measurement chamber door (Figure 2–2) while the instrument is plugged into a power source.

  • Page 9: Table Of Contents

    How to use this user manual ............. 3 For more information ............... 3 Safety symbols and markings............. 4 Safety symbols and markings used on the Varioskan ...... 4 Warning and other markings used in the documentation ....5 Instrument safety and guidelines for use..........6 Chapter 1 Introduction to the Varioskan..............
  • Page 10 How to ensure startup..............47 Operational check ................48 Automatic runtime calibration ............. 49 Chapter 4 Routine Operation ..................51 Do’s and Don’ts of the Varioskan ........... 51 Do ....................51 Don’t ................... 52 Switching on ................... 53 Loading the microplate ..............54 Fluorometric measurement..............
  • Page 11 Fluorescence intensity ..............105 Time-resolved fluorescence............105 Photometry ................106 System Log ....................107 Appendix A Appendix B Varioskan Brief User’s Guide ..............109 Appendix C Certificate of Decontamination............... 111 Appendix D Varioskan Feedback Form................ 113 Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...
  • Page 12 Contents Glossary......................115 Index ......................117 Notes......................121 Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...
  • Page 13 Figure 2–14. Varioskan incubator cross-section ........... 27 Figure 2–15. Control switches............... 28 Figure 2–16. Part of the Varioskan track mechanism ........29 Figure 2–17. Assembly picture of the universal tray ........30 Figure 2–18. Robotic tray fitted with adapter for plate w/o lid, #126 ..33 Figure 2–19.
  • Page 14 Figure 5–42. Replacing the dispensing tip (B) ..........76 Figure 5–43. Dispenser assembly..............77 Figure 5–44. Replacing the dispenser syringe ..........78 Figure 5–45. 3-port valve replacement............79 Figure 5–46. Transport lock released (A) and fastened (B) (screws 1 – 4 shown)......................82 Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...
  • Page 15 Table 8–15. Error codes reported ..............95 Table 8–16. Warning codes reported............98 Table 9–17. Instrument catalog numbers............ 101 Table 9–18. Codes for spare parts and accessories ........101 Table 9–19. Codes for upgrade kits............. 102 Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...
  • Page 16 Tables Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 17: Introduction To The Varioskan

    Chapter 1 Introduction to the Varioskan Introduction The Thermo Electron Varioskan (Figure 1–1) is an advanced spectral scanning multimode reader. The Varioskan is used to measure fluorescence intensity, time-resolved fluorescence (TRF) and absorbance in end point, kinetic and spectral measurements in the UV/Vis range from appropriate microplate formats.

  • Page 18: Advantages Of Using Varioskan

    Introduction to the Varioskan Advantages of using Varioskan Advantages of The Varioskan provides several advantages relating mainly to the principle of operation in that it: using Varioskan Supports applications requiring measurement in the UV/Vis/NIR ● wavelength range Allows optimization of the measurement wavelengths according to ●...

  • Page 19: Chapter 2 Functional Description

    Chapter 2 Functional Description Instrument This section shows the front, internal and back views of the Varioskan instrument. layout Front view ON/OFF switch Dispenser sliding cover Measurement chamber door Power, busy and error LED indicator Front cover Indentation for lifting Varioskan Indentation for lifting Varioskan Figure 2–2.

  • Page 20: Internal View

    Measurement chamber door Blind plug Dispensing head holder Dispensing head (opt.) Dispensing head positioner (dispensing head in positioner while dispensing; blind plug present when no dispensing) Reagent bottle holder Figure 2–5. Varioskan internal view Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 21: Measurement Techniques

    Typical biological samples have a fluorescence background with a very short lifetime, which has an effect on fluorescence intensity Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...

  • Page 22: Photometry

    The absorbance is linearly related to the concentration of the absorbing compound by Bouguer-Lambert-Beer’s Law (Equation 2). A = εC d Equation 2 where: A = absorbance ε = molar absorption coefficient [l/(mol*cm)] C = concentration [mol/l] d = pathlength [cm]. Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 23: Optical System

    Fluorometric measurements are made from the top of the well and photometric measurements are made through the well. The principle of the Varioskan optical measurement modules is shown in the following block diagram (Figure 2–6). Each submodule is described separately in the subsequent lower-level block diagrams (Figure 2–7 through Figure 2–11).

  • Page 24: Excitation Optics

    (Figure 2–8). The final pickup of the desired wavelength band is made by an entrance/exit slit combination. Two monochromators are serially connected for high spectral quality and this essentially minimizes leakage of undesired wavelengths, i.e., stray light. Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 25: Measurement Optics

    Simultaneously the measurement optics collects emission light, which is fed to the emission reading channel. Reference sensor Measurement Emission light Excitation light optics Figure 2–9. Measurement optics Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...

  • Page 26: Emission Reading Module

    High range (Figure 4–35). Photometric Photometric measurement is carried out by using the excitation optics module as the photometric measurement light source. measurement module The photometric measurement module (Figure 2–11) is just underneath the fluorometric measurement position. Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 27: Dispenser Option

    (Figure 2–5) also aids utilization of all the reagent. The combination of a special dispensing tip (Figure 2–12) and the tip priming feature ensures that even very small volumes can be dispensed accurately. Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...

  • Page 28: Figure 2-12. Varioskan Dispensing System

    Dispensing tip (2 options: 0.40 mm, and 0.25 mm) Figure 2–12. Varioskan dispensing system There are two different dispensing tip options: the black dispensing tip 0.40 (∅ 0.40 mm), and the transparent dispensing tip 0.25 (∅...

  • Page 29: Incubator

    (Figure 2–14). The tray and the upper heater together form the isothermal chamber. Note that incubation can be carried out with the Varioskan universal tray and a correct adapter. Refer to “Universal tray with adapters” on page 31.

  • Page 30: Track Mechanism

    Note that movement of the track mechanism can perform orbital shaking. Refer to “Orbital shaking” on page 59 and Table 6–12. Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 31: Tray Options

    Tray Figure 2–16. Part of the Varioskan track mechanism Tray options Two different kinds of trays can be used with the Varioskan: (1) the universal tray, and (2) the robotic tray. Refer to Table 2–1 and Table 2–2. The universal tray (Figure 2–17) can be used with or without incubation.

  • Page 32: Tray Composition

    The holder for the tip priming vessel is located on the left side of the universal frame (Figure 2–17). The robotic tray has two optional locations for the tip priming vessel, depending on the robotic Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 33: Universal Tray With Adapters

    Note that the maximum total height of plates is manufacturer related. ▲ Refer to Table 2–1 and Chapter 9: “Ordering Information”. For more information on plate type settings, refer to SkanIt Software for Varioskan User Manual (Cat. no. N02723). Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...

  • Page 34: Table 2-1. Compatibility Of The Universal Tray And Plate-Specific Adapters

    Dispensing is possible. 6 – 48-well adapter for plate with lid To be used with the most common 6- to 48- well plate formats with lids. Incubation and dispensing are not supported. included in standard deliveries Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 35: Robotic Tray

    There are fixed side supports on both the robotic tray and the adapter. When the tray comes out, the side supports prevent the plate from moving. It is recommended to use the tip priming feature for accurate dispensing, particularly when the dispensing volumes are small, for Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...

  • Page 36: How To Change The Location Of The Holder For The Tip Priming Vessel

    1 to 20 µl. For more information on the tip priming feature, refer to “Dispensing” on page 61. The tip priming vessel is an 8-well plate strip (1 x 8 Thermo Microtiter Solid Strip Assembly). Refer to Table 2–2 and Chapter 9: “Ordering Information”.

  • Page 37: How To Remove Or Replace The Robotic Tray Adapter

    Adapter for plate without lid, #126 Washer and adapter retaining screw Figure 2–20. Removing or replacing the adapter for plate w/o lid, #126 Refer to Table 2–2 and Chapter 9: “Ordering Information”. Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...
  • Page 38 Functional Description Tray options Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 39: Chapter 3 Installation

    Table 3–3. Installation checklist Tick Item Unpack the Varioskan instrument carefully. Refer to “How to unpack” on page 38. Keep the original packaging and packing material for future transportation. Check the delivery for completeness. Refer to “Checking delivery for completeness” on page 38.

  • Page 40: What To Do Upon Delivery

    Unpack the Varioskan instrument and accessories carefully with the arrows on the transport package pointing upwards. Refer to the enclosed packing instructions.

  • Page 41: Environmental Requirements

    If any parts are damaged, contact your local Thermo representative or Thermo Electron Corporation. Environmental When you set up your Varioskan, avoid sites of operation with excess dust, vibrations, strong magnetic fields, direct sunlight, draft, excessive requirements moisture or large temperature fluctuations.

  • Page 42: Setups Before You Put The Instrument Into Operation

    Make sure the transport lock has been released before you put the instrument into operation. Figure 3–21. Transport lock and transport lock tag present 1. First lift up the dispenser sliding cover and also open the measurement chamber door slightly (Figure 3–22). Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 43: Figure 3-22. Dispenser Sliding Cover And Measurement Chamber Door Opened

    3 and 4 are fastened to the track mechanism bar. 3. Unscrew counterclockwise the two top screws marked 1 and 2 of the transport lock with the hexagonal screwdriver supplied (Figure 3–24) so that the track mechanism is loosened. Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...

  • Page 44: Figure 3-24. Transport Lock Fastened (Screws 1 - 4 Shown)

    4. Figure 3–25. Releasing the transport lock (screws 1 – 4 shown) 8. When you have loosened screw number 4 so that the transport block support moves, turn the support into a horizontal storage Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 45: How To Install The Tray

    Refer to “Tray options” on page 29. 1. First remove the metallic, yellow-labeled transport lock of the tray holder. Refer to “How to release the transport lock” on page 40. Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...

  • Page 46: Figure 3-27. Tray Holder

    It may be a tight fit. A clicking sound indicates successful installation. Note The adapter will not go to the bottom of the tray if the positioning lever is in the way. ▲ Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 47: How To Setup The Optional Dispenser

    How to setup the The dispenser is factory installed and is located on the right-hand side of the dispensing area (Figure 3–30). optional dispenser Caution If the dispenser is not properly installed, leakage may occur. ▲ Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...

  • Page 48: Figure 3-30. Varioskan With The Dispenser Sliding Cover Open

    Setups before you put the instrument into operation Dispenser Reagent bottle Figure 3–30. Varioskan with the dispenser sliding cover open Note that the aspirate tubing (Figure 3–32) is factory installed into the right hole of the valve. Ensure that the aspirate tubing is finger tight.

  • Page 49: Installation Of Skanit Software

    Dispensing tip (2 options: 0.40 mm, and 0.25 mm) Figure 3–32. Dispenser assembly Installation of Refer to the SkanIt Software for Varioskan User Manual (Cat. no. N02723) for installing SkanIt Software. SkanIt Software Note Operate the instrument only with software and hardware specifically designed or selected for it.

  • Page 50: Operational Check

    Serial connector Mains power supply connector Figure 3–33. Connecting the mains supply cable Operational First switch the Varioskan ON (Figure 2–2). check The instrument has a sophisticated control system. The instrument automatically performs a complete set of initialization tests and adjustments.

  • Page 51: Automatic Runtime Calibration

    However, the warning does not mean that the measurement failed, only that the accuracy of the results may have suffered. Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...
  • Page 52 Installation Operational check Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 53: Chapter 4 Routine Operation

    Chapter 4 Routine Operation The operation of the Thermo Electron Varioskan spectral scanning multimode reader is controlled by an external computer and run on SkanIt Software. Note Operate the instrument only with software and hardware specifically designed or selected for it. Thermo Electron assumes no liability for the use of third-party software applications.

  • Page 54: Don't

    When you change the dispensing tip, remove the protective cap that ● protects the sensitive tip (Figure 3–31). Exchange the 8-well plate strip piece (1 x 8 Thermo Microtiter Solid ● Strip Assembly), i.e., the tip priming vessel, after about 250 tip primings if the priming volume is 10 µl and after 2500 tip primings...

  • Page 55: Switching On

    Warning Never operate your instrument from a power outlet that has no ground connection. ▲ Switch the Varioskan on by pressing the power switch on the left side panel of the instrument into the ON position (Figure 2–2). At startup the following items are checked for correct operation: tray positioning ●...

  • Page 56: Loading The Microplate

    (see “Tray options” on page 27) User Manual, Cat. no. N02723) Switch the Varioskan ON (Figure 2–2). The tray is driven out, after which the microplate can be loaded. Load the microplate onto the instrument tray for measurement (Figure 4–34). If the tray is in, first drive the tray out by selecting either Execute >...

  • Page 57: Fluorometric Measurement

    A1 to facilitate correct insertion of the microplate. After this the measurement is executed with SkanIt Software. The software measures according to the selected measurement parameters. Refer to the SkanIt Software for Varioskan User Manual (Cat. no. N02723). Fluorometric In fluorescence intensity or time-resolved fluorescence measurements...
  • Page 58 If there is a necessity to improve the quality of the results, the flash amount should be increased. The result is the mean value of individual 10 ms readings during the total measurement time. Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 59: Fluorometric Spectrum Scanning

    TRF integration time defines the time used for emission signal collection. When the Varioskan performs a TRF measurement, it excites the sample with a very short light pulse, waits for the defined TRF delay time and then collects the signal during the defined TRF integration time.

  • Page 60: Photometric Measurement

    The phases of the photometric spectrum scanning measurement are the same as for the photometric measurement but with several wavelengths. spectrum See “Photometric measurement” on page 58. scanning The air blank spectrum is also measured in photometric spectrum scanning measurements. Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 61: Other Functions

    Routine Operation Other functions Other functions The Varioskan also has shaking, incubating and reagent dispensing capabilities, which are presented below. Orbital shaking The orbital shaking function is used for shaking the microplate in order to mix the samples. Movement of the track mechanism (Figure 2–16) can perform the shaking action.

  • Page 62: Incubating

    The above-the-plate element is fixed to the measurement chamber ceiling. Both heating elements are temperature controlled. Note The samples in the microplate reach the target temperature usually much later than the instrument. ▲ Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 63: Dispensing

    (Figure 2–5 and Figure 5–40). Priming The Varioskan can be primed using SkanIt Software or a control switch for priming the dispenser. Prime the dispenser tubing, if necessary. Either select Execute > Prime or press the...

  • Page 64: Tip Priming

    ▲ The tip priming vessel is an 8-well plate strip (1 x 8 Thermo Microtiter Solid Strip Assembly). There is a cavity for the tip priming vessel in the left side of the universal tray (position A) (Figure 2–17). The robotic tray has two optional locations for the tip priming vessel, either position A or in the front of the tray (position B) (Figure 2–19), depending on...

  • Page 65: Helpful Hints

    Note Kel F is the brand name for 3M’s PCTFE, i.e., polychlorotrifluoroethylene. The present brand name is Neoflon CTFE, manufactured by Deikon. ▲ Caution Also take into account the chemical resistance of microplates. ▲ Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...

  • Page 66: Table 4-5. Compatibility Chart Of Solvents Suitable With The Plastic Materials Used In The Dispenser

    — Ammonium sulfate — Amyl acetate — Aniline Benzene Benzyl alcohol Boric acid Bromine Butyl alcohol Butyl acetate — Carbon sulfide — Carbon tetrachloride Chloroacetic acid — Chlorine Chlorobenzene — — Chloroform — Continued Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...
  • Page 67 Naphtha Nitric acid Nitric acid (conc.) — Nitrobenzene — Phenol — Pyridine — — Silver nitrate — Soap solutions — Stearic acid — Sulfuric acid Sulfuric acid (conc.) — Sulfurous acid Tannic acid Continued Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...

  • Page 68: Shutdown

    3. However, if the tray is dirty, first switch the Varioskan off by pressing the power switch (Figure 2–2) on the left side panel of the instrument into the OFF position.

  • Page 69: Emergency Situations

    2. Unplug the instrument immediately from the power supply (Figure 3–33). 3. Carry out appropriate corrective measures. However, do not disassemble the instrument. 4. If the corrective measures taken do not help, contact authorized technical service or your local Thermo representative. Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...
  • Page 70 Routine Operation Emergency situations Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 71: Chapter 5 Maintenance

    Maintenance This chapter on maintenance contains an outline of the points mentioned in the checklist below (Table 5–6). Contact local authorized checklist technical service or your local Thermo representative for assistance, if necessary. Table 5–6. Maintenance checklist Item Keep the instrument free of dust. See “Regular and preventive maintenance”...

  • Page 72: Regular And Preventive Maintenance

    It is recommended to service the instrument at least yearly. Refer to “Service contracts” on page 84. If you believe that liquid has entered the Varioskan, first switch the instrument off (Figure 2–2) and unplug the instrument. Carry out corrective measures. Refer to “How to clean the measurement chamber”...

  • Page 73: How To Clean The Measurement Chamber

    (Figure 3–23), which may result in immediate damage to the instrument. ▲ How to clean the 1. Switch the Varioskan off by pressing the power switch (Figure 2–2) on the left side panel of the instrument into the OFF position. measurement chamber 2.

  • Page 74: How To Clean The Tray

    ▲ Caution Keep all the holes in the adapter clean, both the identification holes (Figure 2–17) and the well holes (Table 2–1 and Table 2–2). ▲ Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 75: How To Clean The Reagent Basin And Dispensing Area

    Refer also to optional dispenser “Dispenser washing” on page 62. The Varioskan is a very sensitive instrument. Therefore, take special care to avoid any contamination of any parts of the dispenser tubing and follow all GLP (Good Laboratory Practices) recommendations.

  • Page 76: Weekly Maintenance

    To clean the dispenser (Figure 3–30) with weak base and acid, follow these steps: 1. Prime the dispenser with 0.1 M NaOH and leave the solution in the dispenser for 10 minutes with the syringe (Figure 3–32) fully lowered. Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 77: Periodic Maintenance

    (Figure 3–32), follow these steps: complete dispensing tube assembly 1. To remove either the dispensing tube or the aspirate tube assembly from the valve, gently loosen the fittings manually. Unscrew the fittings and remove the tubing. Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...

  • Page 78: Replacing A Dispensing Tip

    Dispensing head tube Figure 5–42. Replacing the dispensing tip (B) 3. Replace the dispensing head tube (Figure 5–42). Fasten the parts by turning in the opposite directions than shown in Figure 5–41. Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 79: Replacing A Dispenser Syringe

    6. To fit the new dispenser syringe, screw the syringe into the valve, pull the syringe plunger down to the plunger holder arm, and screw the syringe into place. Make sure the plunger lock screw is securely tightened (Figure 5–44). Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...

  • Page 80: Replacing The 3-Port Valve

    7. Install the new valve by inserting the slot in the valve coupling onto the tab of the encoder. The valve should be oriented with the tube fittings on top and the syringe on the bottom. Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 81: Disposal Of Materials

    It is strongly recommended to perform the complete decontamination procedure before relocating the instrument from one laboratory to another. Decontamination is not required for the proper functioning of the instrument. Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...
  • Page 82 7. Close the bag firmly and leave the instrument in the bag for at least 24 hours. 8. Remove the instrument from the bag. 9. Clean the instrument using a mild detergent. Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 83: How To Refit The Transport Lock

    4. Next lift up the front cover of the instrument from both sides (Figure 5–39) and remove it so that the storage site of the transport lock support and the support retaining screws marked 1, 2, 3, and 4 become accessible (Figure 5–46 A). Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...

  • Page 84: Figure 5-46. Transport Lock Released (A) And Fastened (B)

    1 and 2 of the transport lock (Figure 5–46 B). 9. Finally, replace the front cover (Figure 2–2 and Figure 5–39) and close the dispenser sliding cover and measurement chamber door (Figure 3–21). Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 85: Maintaining A System Log

    Then replace the dispenser sliding cover and the front cover (Figure 5–39). Install the transport lock of the tray holder. Refer to “How to refit ● the transport lock” on page 81. Pack the instrument according to the enclosed packing instructions. ● Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...

  • Page 86: Service Contracts

    Contact the Thermo Electron technical service department for more details. Disposal of the If the Varioskan is exposed to potentially infectious chemical samples, toxic or corrosive chemicals or radioactive chemicals, waste instrument management of the complete instrument must be carried out to ensure that there is no risk of contamination.

  • Page 87: Chapter 6 Technical Specifications

    Chapter 6 Technical Specifications General Thermo Electron reserves the right to change any specifications without prior notice as part of our continuous product development program. specifications Table 6–8. Technical specifications Technical specifications Overall ca. 540 mm (W) x 580 mm (D) x 500 mm (H) dimensions [21.3”...

  • Page 88: Performance Specifications

    Reads a 96-well plate in 15 s, a 384-well plate in 45 s, and a 1536- speed well plate in 135 s (from A1 back to A1, fixed Ex and Em selections, measurement time 10 ms/well, settle delay 0, manual dynamic range) Plate types 6- to 1536-well plates Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 89: Table 6-10. Photometry

    ± 0.5°C at 37°C, ambient 25°C, covered 96-well plate Mean temperature of the wells Temperature standard 0.3°C at 37°C, ambient 25°C, covered 96-well plate deviation Liquid warm-up time 1 h from 25°C to 37°C, covered 96-well plate, 200 µl water/well Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...

  • Page 90: Safety Specifications

    80 s, 384-well plate, 5 µl/well, 0.40 mm tip Dead volume 600 µl Tip priming volume 1 – 10 µl Plate sensing Photometric Safety Safety performance: specifications EN 61010-1:2001 (Ed. 2) EN 61010-2-010:2003 (Ed. 2), including US and CA National differences Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 91: In Conformity With The Requirements

    ▲ Both of these affect the dimensioning of the electrical insulation within the instrument. In conformity The Varioskan bears the following markings: Type 3001 with the 100 – 240 Vac, 50/60 Hz, 200 VA requirements CE mark...
  • Page 92 Technical Specifications In conformity with the requirements The Varioskan conforms to the following requirements: 73/23/EEC (Low Voltage Directive) 89/336/EEC (Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive, EMC) FCC Part 15, Subpart B/Class B EMC performance: EN 61000-6-3:2001 Generic standards – Emission standard for residential, commercial and light-...

  • Page 93: Frequently Asked Questions

    6- to 1536-well plates. Dispensing can be carried out with 6- to 384-well plates. Q5: What kind of trays and adapters are available for the Varioskan? A5: The trays and adapters available are listed in Table 7–14.

  • Page 94: Table 7-14. Tray Vs. Plate-Specific Adapter

    Correction Factors dialog, which is found in the Settings menu. Q9: Why would I need to use a pathlength correction factor? A9: Pathlength correction is required to be able to calculate concentrations using Bouguer-Lambert-Beer’s law with molar absorption coefficients from the literature. Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...
  • Page 95 A11: Yes, with plates suitable for UV measurements down to 260 nm. ° Q12: How long does it take for the Varioskan incubator to reach 37 A12: Approximately 5 minutes (from 25°C). However, warming up solutions takes about 1 hour.
  • Page 96 Concentration of a sample of dsDNA = (OD * 50) µg/ml A260 Q16: Can I use the Varioskan to measure the expression levels of reporter genes? A16: Yes, Varioskan can be used to measure the expression level of any reporter gene that has either a photometric or fluorometric detection system available.

  • Page 97: Chapter 8 Troubleshooting Guide

    The sampling time for a single result is too long for scan Use normal measurement instead of scan. Use measurement. The plate cannot be moved as slowly as the a shorter sampling time. Continued Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...
  • Page 98 This is only reported in response to the factory calibration. Contact service. No tray attached to the instrument. The tray carriage will not Attach a tray to the tray holder. move unless there is a tray. Continued Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...
  • Page 99 Such an error during startup that the execution of some functions The measurement chamber door must be is not possible. closed during startup. If it is not, contact service. Invalid TRF measurement command. Contact service. Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...

  • Page 100: Table 8-16. Warning Codes Reported

    The synchronization of measurements failed. The second measurement started later than requested. The minimum timing depends on the combination of measurement parameters, plate movement parameters, dispensing parameters and volume, number of wavelengths and number of measured points. Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 101: Service Request Protocol

    Decontamination”) as well as the return authorization number (RGA) are sent with the instrument. The Thermo Electron technical service department will keep you up to date with the progress of service and provide you with any further details you might need, for example, on maintenance, serviceability, troubleshooting and replacement.
  • Page 102 Troubleshooting Guide Certificate of Decontamination Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 103: Chapter 9 Ordering Information

    Chapter 9 Ordering Information Contact your local Thermo representative for ordering and service information. Table 9–17. Instrument catalog numbers Code Instrument / System 5250000 Varioskan 5250010 Varioskan with dispenser List of spare Table 9–18. Codes for spare parts and accessories...

  • Page 104: Upgrade Kits

    * other plate-specific adapters for universal tray available on request ** longer USB cables available from PC stores Upgrade kits Table 9–19. Codes for upgrade kits Code Item Quantity N03082 dispenser kit, incl. Dispensing tip 5 – 1000 µl (0.40 mm) Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 105: Chapter 10 References

    For more information on microplate/plastics manufacturers, visit the following websites: Thermo Electron http://www.thermo.com Bibby-Sterilin http://www.bibby- sterilin.co.uk/internet/BibbySite.nsf/framesette r/TMAY5BQDST?OpenDocument Porvair Sciences http://www.porvair-sciences.com/products.html Corning-Costar http://www.corning.com/lifesciences/Greater_Euro pe/en/ BD Falcon http://www.bdbiosciences.com/discovery_labware/ Nunc http://www.nuncbrand.com Greiner Bio-One http://www.gbo.com Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...
  • Page 106 R&D Systems http://www.rndsystems.com * BD = Becton Dickinson For more information on fluorometric and TRF labels, visit the following websites: http://www.cambrex.com http://www.molecular-beacons.com http://www.rndsystems.com For information on TEMPCHECK plates, visit the following websites: http://www.TEMPCHECK.nl Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 107: Literature

    Zaman G. J. R., Garritsen A., Boer T. de, and van Boeckel C. A. A. (2003): Fluorescence Assays for High-Throughput Screening of Protein Kinases. Combinatorial Chemistry & High Throughput Screening (June) 6 (4), 313-320(8). Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...

  • Page 108: Photometry

    References Literature Photometry Gore Michael G., Ed., (2000): Spectrophotometry and Spectrofluorimetry. Oxford University Press. US Patent 6111636, (2000): Device for measuring optical density. Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 109: Appendix A System Log

    Appendix A System Log Instrument name/number: User Date Comments PHOTOCOPIABLE Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...
  • Page 110 System Log Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 111: Appendix B Varioskan Brief User's Guide

    Appendix B Varioskan Brief User’s Guide 1. Switch the Varioskan ON (p. 53). The tray is driven out, after which the microplate can be loaded. 2. Create or open a SkanIt Software session (see the SkanIt Software for Varioskan User Manual, Cat. no. N02723).
  • Page 112 10. Empty the dispensing tubing. Rinse and wash the tubing depending on the solvents used. Also remove or empty the priming vessels at shutdown. 11. Switch OFF the Varioskan after routine operation or before prolonged standby (p. 66). 12. Maintain your Varioskan instrument regularly (p. 69).

  • Page 113: Appendix C Certificate Of Decontamination

    *) The signature of a Radiation Safety Officer is also required when the unit has been used with radioactive materials. This unit is certified by the undersigned to be free of radioactive contamination. Date and place: Signature: Name (block capitals): PHOTOCOPIABLE Please include decontaminating solution used. Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...
  • Page 114 Certificate of Decontamination Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 115: Appendix D Varioskan Feedback Form

    User manual Software Customer support Overall Additional instrument and/or software features desired: Did you encounter any problems? Where did you first learn about the product? Would you like to receive information about other Thermo products? Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...
  • Page 116 Varioskan Feedback Form Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 117: Glossary

    Dynamic range refers to the range of signals an instrument can read, from the minimum to the maximum detectable. For Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...
  • Page 118 Reference chip (Figure 2–16) present for validation of the fluorometric optics. RFU or rfu Relative Fluorescence/Fluorometric Units. The arbitrary units in which fluorescence intensity is reported. rpm Revolutions per minute. 116 Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 119: Index

    6, 25, 26, 27, 45, 46, 47, 48, 52, 53, 61, 62, 63, 92, 101, 109, 115 64, 73, 74, 75, 77, 78, 79, 85, 88, 96, 97, 101, 102, 103, advantages of using Varioskan, 16 109, 116 application, 2, 5, 16, 27, 47, 51, 60, 63, 113...
  • Page 120 29, 30, 37, 43, 54 72, 74, 81, 82, 97 how to install the Varioskan, 37, 40, 47, 48, 89 chamber door, 6, 40, 41, 43, 52, 57, 58, 71, 72, 81, 82, how to load the microplate, 54...
  • Page 121 52, 53, 54, 55, 58, 60, 61, 62, 66, 67, 72, 73, 85, 92, setting range, 87 96, 109, 115, 116 shaker, 85, 88 type, 31, 44, 51, 54, 85, 86, 87, 88, 93, 109 shaking, 15, 28, 59, 88 plate sensing, 88 diameter, 88 Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...
  • Page 122 16, 87, 91 damage, 37, 38 resolution, 86, 87 lock, 37, 40, 41, 42, 43, 81, 82, 83 selection, 22, 85, 86, 87 package, 38, 81 Web links, 103 weight, 39, 85 120 Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...

  • Page 123: Notes

    Notes Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...
  • Page 124 Notes 122 Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation...
  • Page 125 Notes Thermo Electron Corporation Varioskan™ User Manual...
  • Page 127 Thermo Electron Corporation Microplate Instrumentation Ratastie 2, P.O. Box 100 FIN-01621 Vantaa Finland www.thermo.com 15018850...