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Thermo Scientific myECL Imager Manual

Thermo Scientific myECL Imager Manual

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Summary of Contents for Thermo Scientific myECL Imager

  • Page 1 Imager Manual ™...

  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Chapter 1: Overview ..................1 Thank You and Welcome Letter .............1 Contacting Thermo Fisher Scientific ...........2 Imager Overview ..................2 Included Accessories ................2 Functionality .....................3 ECL Imager Acquisition Software ............3 ImageAnalysis Software ..............4 Chapter 2: Imager ...................5 Installation Guidelines ................5 Space Requirements ................5 Electrical Requirements ................5...
  • Page 3 Chapter 3: Image Acquisition ............25 Imager Settings .....................25 Live Camera ...................25 ..............25 Live Camera in Chemi Mode ..............26 Live Camera in UV Mode ..............26 Live Camera in Vis Mode Camera Settings Available in Chemi, UV and Vis Modes ......27 Settings Only Available in UV and Vis Modes ...........29 Chemiluminescence (Chemi) Mode ...........30...
  • Page 4 Ultraviolet (UV) Mode ................46 Camera Settings ..................46 Capture Settings ..................46 ................46 Image Acquisition ...............47 Pre-set Exposure Time ...............48 Custom Exposure Time ...............49 Stop Image Acquisition Image Tools ....................49 ................49 Display Saturation ...................50 Invert Image .................50 Auto Contrast ..................50 Adjust Image ................51 Intensity Display ..................51...
  • Page 5 ..................62 UV Transilluminator ...................63 Band Excision ..................63 Cleaning the Transilluminator ..............64 Replacement of Transilluminator Bulbs ...........64 Emission Filters ..................65 Changing Filters ..................65 Appendix A: Technical Specifications ........67 Appendix B: Accessories ...............68 Appendix C: Related Thermo Scientific Products ..69 Glossary ........................70...

  • Page 6: Chapter 1: Overview

    Quick Start guide is provided if you want to begin using your new imager immediately. Thermo Scientific products are always at the forefront of scientific instrument design, and we strive to design and produce instruments that can help you achieve your research goals.

  • Page 7: Contacting Thermo Fisher Scientific

    Technical Support email for European customers: perbio.eurotech@thermofisher.com Technical Support email for Asia/Pacific customers: Info.bid.jp@thermofisher.com For more information about the Thermo Scientific Protein Biology product line, please visit our website: www.thermoscientific.com/pierce Imager Overview ECL Imager is designed to be a useful tool for the researcher needing intuitive equipment and software with fast imaging capabilities.

  • Page 8: Functionality

    Hardware and software optimized for image acquisition One-touch image acquisition Multiple image acquisition with pre-set and user-defined settings Thermo Scientific Each imager arrives loaded with the ECL Imager Acquisition Software. This manual gives detailed information on using all software functions and modes.

  • Page 9: My Imageanalysis Software

    Thermo Scientific ImageAnalysis Software is supplied with the ECL Imager as a vital tool for extracting information from your captured images. The analysis software features: ImageAnalysis Indentify lanes and bands automatically Software View and compare up to six images simultaneously Open multiple image formats (e.g., .tif, .jpeg, .png, etc.)

  • Page 10: Chapter 2: Imager

    Imager Chapter 2 Installation IMPORTANT Review and implement guidelines for proper set-up before installation. Locate the imager away from water, solvents, corrosive materials, strong magnetic Guidelines fields and vibration sources. IMPORTANT The imager weighs 65lbs (29.5kg). Use two people to lift it by grasping the bottom and the handle at the rear of the imager.

  • Page 11: Environmental Requirements

    Table 2-2. Imager electrical ratings. Electrical Parameter Rating Supply Voltage (VAC) 120-240 Frequency (Hz) 50-60 Power Rating (W) Fuse (power center) T4AL, 250V, 4A Table 2-3. Imager electrical requirements for major countries. Region Voltage Frequency Amps (A) (VAC) (Hz) US and Canada Europe Japan China...

  • Page 12: Imager Images With Feature Locations

    Imager Images with Feature Locations Imager Front View Figure 2-1. Imager front and side views detailing main components. ECL Imager User Manual Thermo Fisher Scientific...
  • Page 13 Imager Front View with Sample Door Open Figure 2-2. Imager view with the sample door open and the transilluminator extended. ECL Imager User Manual Thermo Fisher Scientific...
  • Page 14 Imager Rear View Figure 2-3. Rear imager view. ECL Imager User Manual Thermo Fisher Scientific...

  • Page 15: Start Up

    Start Up IMPORTANT Allow the imager to equilibrate for 20-30 minutes after each initial hard power up. This ensures that the camera is optimally cooled before image acquisition. To perform the Hard Start Up procedure: Hard Start Up 1. Turn on the hard power switch located at the bottom of the rear imager panel. The hard power switch provides power to all of the imager components.

  • Page 16: Shut Down

    Soft Start Up If the imager is powered down by the Soft Shut Down procedure, then a Soft Start Up can be done using the front, soft power switch. The soft power switch is the blue lighted switch located just above the front door and below the touchscreen. This switch allows the user power down the imager computer and touchscreen, while maintaining power to the camera cooling unit.

  • Page 17: Usb Features

    USB Features The three external USB ports on the right side of the imager can be used for flash drives, which can be connected through any of the USB ports for easy file management. Note The Export button always exports files to the E:\ drive, which is automatically the first additional drive connected to the imager.

  • Page 18: Imager Settings

    Imager Settings The Tools button in the top right corner of the acquisition software screen allows access to basic imager settings and functionality. Tools 1. Select the Tools button to open the Tools screen. Tools button The Tools screen displays the serial number of the system and the current software version installed in the system.

  • Page 19: Date And Time

    To correct the date, time or time zone: Date and Time 1. Select the Date and Time button. A Windows clock and calendar is displayed. 2. Choose the correct settings as needed. 3. Select the Apply button, followed by the OK button to save the settings. ECL Imager User Manual Thermo Fisher Scientific...

  • Page 20: Printer

    Printer To select a default printer for imager exporting: 1. Select the Printer button. A Printers and Other Devices screen is displayed. 2. Choose the appropriate printer from the listed selections. Plug-and-play printers automatically populate the list. Select Add a Printer from the left column if the printer is not a local printer or plug-and-play type.

  • Page 21: Filters

    Filters The imager has four default filter positions: Position 1: No filter (for use in Chemi applications) Position 2: Orange filter (for use in UV and Vis applications) Position 3: No filter Position 4: No filter The imager is supplied with an orange filter in Position 2, but green, red and blue filters can also be purchased for additional applications.
  • Page 22 ECL Imager, the orange filter is optimal for Hoechst Blue imaging. † Coomassie Blue and Thermo Scientific Imperial Stains do not require the orange filter; however, these stains require the white light conversion screen. UV and Vis modes use the orange filter in Position 2 by default.

  • Page 23: Administrator Settings

    Administrator Settings Selection of Administrator Settings displays the following screen requiring a User Name and Password. Only the designated administrator should access this section. Users do not typically need to access Administrator Settings. Only the facility administrator should have access to these functions through password access. The default user name and password are myecl and 1234, respectively.

  • Page 24: Set Image Gallery Location

    Set Image Gallery Location The Set Image Gallery Location button allows the administrator to set up a default pathway for saving acquired images. The imager has a default image gallery location, “Computer – Local Disk (D:\) – Gallery_1”. The image gallery location can be changed to another folder in a local or network drive.
  • Page 25 Follow the instructions provided and contact our Technical Support team for questions or to troubleshoot the imager. U.S. contact: 800-874-3723 International contact: +1-815-968-0747 Europe contact: +49-228-8502820 Asia/Pacific contact: +81-3-5826-1659 Note Remote access requires the imager to be connected to a network with internet access.

  • Page 26: Other Operating System (Os) Settings

    Other OS Settings This function allows the administrator to access the Windows Control Panel to change system and user configurations as needed. Note Only qualified administrators should have access to this area. Altering configurations can cause imager errors. Reset Default Focus Position The default focus position can be reset or changed by selecting the Reset Default Focus Position button.

  • Page 27: Create Dark And Bias Images

    Create Dark and Bias Images Dark current is the thermal noise generated from a CCD (charge coupled device). This thermal noise is proportional to a power law of CCD temperature. The bias noise is introduced as the analog signal is converted to a digital signal. The Imager applies dark and bias noise compensation using dark and bias masters upon image acquisition.
  • Page 28 6. Select OK to begin or Cancel to return to the Administrator Settings screen. 7. Select OK. The following screen will appear: Note To avoid inaccurate dark and bias master creation, the door must remain closed during the entire dark and bias image acquisition process. Note Interruption of dark and bias master creation by opening the door or selecting the Stop button stops the process and discards all acquired masters.

  • Page 29: Return

    8. Once the dark and bias image acquisition process is complete, the following screen will appear: 9. Select OK to return to the Administrator Settings screen. Return Select Return to return to the previous Tools menu. ECL Imager User Manual Thermo Fisher Scientific...

  • Page 30: Chapter 3: Image Acquisition

    Image Acquisition Chapter 3 Imager Settings Upon powering up the imager, the ECL Imager welcome screen is displayed. Note When performing the Hard Start Up procedure, the thermoelectric camera cooler is NOT at the ideal temperature of -25°C. After powering up the imager, allow 10-30 minutes for the camera to cool to the optimal temperature.

  • Page 31: Live Camera In Uv Mode

    Live Camera in Selection of Live Camera in UV mode turns on the UV light. The live image is displayed with the exposure time used in the previous image acquisition in UV mode UV mode unless the user changes the exposure time or changes the mode. Live Camera in Selection of Live Camera in Vis mode turns on the UV and epi-white lights.

  • Page 32: Camera Settings Available In Chemi, Uv And Vis Modes

    Camera Settings Available in Chemi, UV and Vis Modes Note Camera Settings are only available with the live image display Focus Icon for performing minimal focusing adjustments that may be needed as varying object depths change. Note An Imaging Reference Target is supplied with the imager. Use this target in Vis mode when performing camera focusing.
  • Page 33 Figure 3-1. The binning process. The Resolution/Sensitivity selection allows for choosing among five different sensitivities: 1×1 (far left setting), 2×2, 3×3 (middle, default setting), 4×4 and 8×8 (far right setting) binning. Selection of 1×1 binning provides minimum sensitivity/maximum resolution, while selection of 8×8 binning provides maximum sensitivity/minimum resolution.

  • Page 34: Settings Only Available In Uv And Vis Modes

    Settings Only Available in UV and Vis Modes Aperture Slider bar for adjusting the camera lens opening to control sensitivity and depth of field. The aperture can be fully closed (far right position) or fully opened (far left position) depending on the light sensitivity needed. UV Light Button for turning on/off the transilluminator UV bulbs.

  • Page 35: Chemiluminescence (Chemi) Mode

    Chemiluminescence Chemiluminescence (Chemi) Mode is the default mode. Chemi mode is used for the capture of sample images using sample-emitted light. A visible image of the sample (Chemi) Mode is automatically captured in Chemi mode using reflected light (ChemiV image), which is useful for imaging colorimetric molecular weight markers.
  • Page 36 2. The imager calculates and displays the exposure time with maximum dynamic range and minimum pixel saturation. The slider bar location and Time Display/Input button correspond to the calculated exposure time. Note Exposure time ranges from 1 second to 99 minutes 99 seconds. If the 15-second sample image is saturated, then the imager automatically sets the calculated exposure time to 5 seconds.
  • Page 37 4. Select the Reset Calculated Exposure button to return to the imager calculated exposure time. Note The Invert button is a useful tool for viewing faint gel bands. This tool inverts the standard black background with white highlights to a white background with black highlights.

  • Page 38: Capture Settings

    Capture Settings 1. Select the Chemi tab on the touchscreen. 2. (Optional) Select the Live Camera button if the live image is not displayed. Single Image Acquisition 3. The epi-white lights and live image display are activated. Open the imager door, pull out the transilluminator and install the chemiluminescence exposure screen (black) on the transilluminator glass.

  • Page 39: Pre-Set Exposure Time

    Pre-set Exposure Time 1. Select one of the pre-set exposure time buttons on the touchscreen keypad. The imager takes an image as soon as the exposure time button is selected. 2. Captured images are displayed on the screen and automatically stored in the Gallery for further review and selection.

  • Page 40: Custom Exposure Time

    Custom Exposure Time 1. Select the Custom exposure button using the touchscreen keypad. 2. Enter the desired time in milliseconds (ms), seconds (s) or minutes (m) using the touchscreen keypad numbers. The m : s box is used to input seconds and/or minutes and is active by default (box is gray in color).

  • Page 41: Multiple Image Acquisition

    Multiple Image Acquisition 1. Select the Chemi tab. 2. (Optional) Select the Live Camera button if the live image is not displayed. 3. The epi-white lights and live image display are activated. Open the imager door, pull out the transilluminator and install the chemiluminescence exposure screen (black) on the transilluminator glass.

  • Page 42: Pre-Set Multiple Exposure Settings

    Pre-set Multiple Exposure The five pre-set multiple exposure settings allow you to select a time series of exposures. Settings 1. Select the Multi button from the touchscreen number keypad. 2. Select one of the Pre-set # option buttons with an appropriate time series of exposures.

  • Page 43: User-Defined Multiple Exposure Settings

    User-defined Multiple Exposure The User-defined Multiple Exposure settings allow the user to set custom times in situations where the pre-set exposure times do not meet your needs. Settings 1. Select the Multi button from the touchscreen number keypad. 2. To create or edit the user-defined exposure time settings, select the Edit button to highlight the five Exposure fields.
  • Page 44 5. The Total time is calculated and displayed as each new time is input into a cell. After all desired exposure times are entered, select the Save button (former Edit button) in the top right corner of the table. This saves the User # time settings for further uses.

  • Page 45: Image Tools

    Image Tools Note The Image Tools only function while viewing or printing the image. ChemiV Overlay, Display Saturation, Invert, Auto Contrast and Adjust Image adjustments are NOT saved with the image file. ChemiV Overlay After capturing an image in Chemi mode, the ChemiV Overlay button can be selected to superimpose the corresponding ChemiV image on top of the Chemi image.

  • Page 46: Invert Image

    If the image appears to be over- or under-saturated, the image exposure time may need to be increased or decreased to acquire a properly saturated image. Exposure time can be adjusted for subsequent image capture by using the number keypad. 3.

  • Page 47: Auto Contrast

    Auto Contrast Selecting the Auto Contrast button increases the contrast between the signal and the background to increase visibility. This adjustment can only be used for viewing or printing the image. The contrast adjustment is NOT saved with the image file. Note Auto Contrast is disengaged when the Adjust Image button is selected.

  • Page 48: Intensity Display

    Intensity Display Select a point of interest on the acquired image to view the Intensity Display containing the pixel intensity and pixel coordinates of the corresponding region. When multiple images of the same sample are acquired and displayed on the screen, the pixel intensities of the same location can be viewed and compared between multiple images by selecting the corresponding image tabs.

  • Page 49: Image Info

    This image file name can be changed within the Acquisition Information screen. File name Image title (imager-generated or user-defined) User Person using the MYECL Imager (user-defined) Project Name of project (user-defined) Notes Relevant notes pertaining to image or experiment (user-defined)

  • Page 50: Export

    Mode Single, multiple, custom, UV or Vis Acquisition time Time of day image was taken Acquisition date Date image was taken Sensitivity/Resolution Binning used for image acquisition Export Select Export to save the highlighted image to a USB flash drive. External flash drives can access the imager through three different ports on the right side of the imager.

  • Page 51: Ultraviolet (Uv) Mode

    Ultraviolet (UV) Mode Ultraviolet (UV) mode is used for the capture of images using transmitted UV light. CAUTION UV mode uses the UV light in the transilluminator. Long-term exposure to UV light can be harmful. Use the appropriate eye and skin personal protective equipment (PPE) if there is any chance of exposure to the UV light.

  • Page 52: Pre-Set Exposure Time

    3. Open the imager door and confirm that the UV light is off. The epi-white lights are activated once the door is opened. Pull out the transilluminator and place the UV exposure screen (clear) on top of the transilluminator. 4. Insert and center the sample on top of the UV exposure screen (clear) using the live image display for reference.

  • Page 53: Custom Exposure Time

    Custom Exposure Time 1. Select the Custom exposure time button using the touchscreen keypad. 2. Enter the desired time in milliseconds (ms), seconds (s) or minutes (m) using the touchscreen keypad numbers. The m : s box is used to input seconds and/or minutes and is active by default (box is gray in color).

  • Page 54: Stop Image Acquisition

    Stop Image Acquisition Upon selecting the Acquire button, a Stop window appears over the keypad. Selecting the Stop button stops the current image acquisition exposure and return the screen to the current session exposure settings. Image Tools Note The Image Tools only function while viewing or printing the image. Display Saturation, Invert, Auto Contrast and Adjust image adjustments are NOT saved with the image file.

  • Page 55: Invert Image

    Invert Image The Invert button is a useful tool for viewing faint gel bands. This tool inverts the standard black background with white highlights to a white background with black highlights. Inverted UV Image Original UV Image 1. In the active live image, select the Invert button from under the time keypad. 2.

  • Page 56: Intensity Display

    Intensity Display Select a point of interest on the acquired image to view the Intensity Display containing the pixel intensity and pixel coordinates of the corresponding region. When multiple images of the same sample are acquired and displayed on the screen, the pixel intensities of the same location can be viewed and compared between multiple images by selecting the corresponding image tabs.

  • Page 57: Visible (Vis) Mode

    Visible (Vis) Mode Visible (Vis) mode is used for the capture of gel images using reflected and/or transmitted light. CAUTION Vis mode uses the UV lights from the transilluminator. Long-term exposure to UV light can be harmful. Use the appropriate eye and skin PPE if there is any chance of exposure to the UV light.

  • Page 58: Image Acquisition-Reflected Light

    Image Acquisition – 1. Select the Vis tab on the touchscreen. Changing to Vis mode automatically turns on the UV lights within the transilluminator and the epi-white lights. Reflected Light 2. (Optional) Select the Live Camera button and enable the UV button if the live image is not displayed.

  • Page 59: Custom Exposure Time

    3. Captured images are displayed on the screen and automatically stored in the Gallery for further viewing and selection. Note A Stop button appears over the keypad once the Acquire button is selected. Image acquisition can be stopped by selecting the Stop button. 1.

  • Page 60: Display Saturation

    Display Saturation In Vis mode, while viewing the live image or after capturing an image, the Display Saturation button can be selected to highlight live and captured pixels that are considered to be saturated. A red false-color is superimposed on the pixels deemed to be saturated.

  • Page 61: Auto Contrast

    Auto Contrast Selecting the Auto Contrast button increases the contrast between most bands and the background to increase visibility. This adjustment can be used only for touchscreen viewing or printing of the image. The contrast adjustment is not saved with the image file. Note Auto Contrast is disengaged when the Adjust Image button is selected.

  • Page 62: Print

    Note Users may need to momentarily wait for the imager to detect the external drive once it is connected to the USB port. The selected image is exported only to the first USB flash drive if there are more than two drives connected to the imager. Print The Print button allows the highlighted image to be printed to a selected external printer.

  • Page 63: Image Viewing

    Exposure Chosen exposure time for image Date/Time Date and Time image was taken Resolution Binning used for image acquisition (1x1=highest resolution, 8x8=lowest resolution Temperature CCD Temperature when image was taken Filter Emission Filter used for image acquisition Aperture Aperture change applied when image was taken Image Viewing 1.

  • Page 64: File List

    Choose an image or series of images (up to six images including ChemiV image) by selecting the images on the touchscreen. Selected images are highlighted in blue. Double-tap on an image or select the Back to Gallery button to return to the main image gallery screen.

  • Page 65: Search Results

    Search Results The Search Results button allows for viewing results from the previous search. Results listings are sortable by field. File Manager The File Manager button allows for selection of multiple image files for copying, deleting, exporting and editing image information. Images selected in File Manager are highlighted in a light green color.

  • Page 66: Export

    Export The Export button allows users to copy the selected images to the first USB flash drive plugged into the imager. Edit Info The Edit Info button allows users to create or change the User/Project/Notes fields of the acquisition information for the selected images. File names cannot be changed using Edit Info from File Manager.

  • Page 67: Chapter 4: Maintenance

    Maintenance Chapter 4 Cleaning the Imager IMPORTANT When using any cleaning products with the imager, consult the appropriate material safety data sheet (MSDS) to confirm compatibility with the and Sample Screens imager and proper usage of the cleaning product. LCD Touchscreen Spray a soft cloth or paper towel with cleaning solution (e.g., general purpose cleaner, isopropanol or 70% ethanol).

  • Page 68: Uv Transilluminator

    UV Transilluminator CAUTION The UV transilluminator contains UV bulbs. Long-term exposure to UV light can be harmful. Use the appropriate eye and skin personal protective equipment (PPE) if there is any chance of exposure to the UV light. 1. Wearing UV-protective eyewear and clothing, open the imager door and slide Band Excision out the transilluminator.

  • Page 69: Cleaning The Transilluminator

    6. When finished, turn off the UV light by pushing in the white door peg. Push the transilluminator back into the imager. Alternatively, push the transilluminator back into the imager and close the door, which automatically pushes the white door peg back into place.

  • Page 70: Emission Filters

    Emission Filters A variety of emission filters can be used in the imager. The appropriate filter choice is dependent on the emission wavelength of the sample. Consult Table 2-5 in Chapter 2 to confirm the filter choice is appropriate for the application. The filter wheel allows for easy installation and removal by using threaded filters.
  • Page 71 3. To install an emission filter, insert the threaded side of the filter into an open port on the filter wheel. Turn clockwise to screw the filter in place until hand tight. 4. To remove an emission filter, grasp the outer edge of the filter housing and turn counterclockwise to unscrew and remove.

  • Page 72: Appendix A: Technical Specifications

    Appendix A Technical Specifications Imager Parameter Specification Power Maximum 120W Frequency Range 50-60Hz AC Voltage 100-240V Current 1.2A maximum (dependent on supply voltage) Fuse T4AL, 250V, 4A fuse Dimensions 21 inches H × 12.25 inches W × 22 inches D (53.3cm H ×...

  • Page 73: Appendix B: Accessories

    Appendix B Accessories Product Product Name Package Size 62237† ImageAnalysis Software 1 CD 62238† Orange Filter 1 filter 62239 Green Filter 1 filter 62240 Red Filter 1 filter 62241 Blue Filter 1 filter 62242† Chemiluminescence Exposure Screen 1 screen 62243† White Light Conversion Screen 1 screen 62244†...

  • Page 74: Appendix C: Related Thermo Scientific Products

    Appendix C Related Thermo Scientific Products Product No. Product Name 34087 SuperSignal™ West Pico Chemiluminescent Substrate 34075 SuperSignal West Dura Extended Duration Substrate 34095 SuperSignal West Femto Maximum Sensitivity Substrate 46640 SuperSignal Western Blot Enhancer 32209 Pierce™ ECL Western Blotting Substrate...

  • Page 75: Glossary

    Glossary Resolution Sharpness and clarity of an image; defined by the number of camera pixels used to capture an image Aperture Diameter of the lens opening that limits the Sample screens The clear, black and white panels placed amount of light entering the camera over the transilluminator during image acquisition CCD Charge coupled device that converts a photoelectric Sensitivity CCD camera’s degree of response to light...
  • Page 76 thermoscientific.com/pierce © 2013 Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. All rights reserved. Windows, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP, Excel, PowerPoint and Word are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. SYBR and SYPRO are registered trademarks of Life Technologies Corporation. Deep Purple is a trademark of GE Healthcare Limited UK.

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