Molecular Devices SpectraMax Paradigm User Manual page 91

Microplate Orientation
Insert the microplate in the orientation that matches the orientation selected in the
software. See the SoftMax Pro Software application help or user guide.
Landscape puts the A1 location in the upper-left corner closest to the instrument.
Portrait puts the A1 location in the upper-right corner closest to the instrument.
Opposite Landscape puts the A1 location in the lower-right corner farthest from the
instrument.
Opposite Portrait puts the A1 location in the lower-left corner farthest from the
instrument.
Selecting Suitable Microplate Types
Depending on the application, the can read and strip wells. For micro-volume
measurements, the instrument supports SpectraDrop 24-well Micro-Volume Microplates
and SpectraDrop 64-well Micro-Volume Microplates. The instrument is capable of reading
1536-well microplates when used with specific detection cartridges.
As well as the microplates supported in the SoftMax Pro Software microplate list, you can
use the software to define a new microplate type using the specifications from the
manufacturer for well size, spacing, and distance from the microplate edge.
The type of microplate and the way it is handled can have an effect on the measurement
performance of the instrument. Select a microplate type with properties suited for the
application and for use with multi-mode microplate readers.
CAUTION! To prevent damage to the instrument, the height of the microplate must
not exceed 25 mm, including the lid if the microplate is lidded.
The following are some general microplate handling guidelines:
Never touch the clear well bottom of microplates.
Visually inspect the bottom and rim of the microplate before use to make sure it is free of
dirt and contaminants.
Keep unused microplates clean and dry.
Make sure the strips on strip plates are inserted correctly and level with the frame.
Do not use V-bottom microplates unless the performance has been tested and validated
with this instrument. Irregular plastic density in the tip of the well can cause inaccurate
measurements.
For recommendations on microplate types to use for a specific detection cartridge, see
Available Detection Cartridges on page
5014038 E
93.
Chapter 4: Using the Instrument
91