Chapter 4 Operating The Agility System; Overview - Dynex Agility Automated ELISA System Operator's Manual

Chapter 4 Operating the Agility System

4.1 Overview

This chapter presents an overview of how a typical series of assays is set up and performed by
the Agility system. It includes a discussion about how:
 Samples, SmartKits and Consumables are loaded into the system
 The operator can monitor the progress of the assays.
 Data can be retrieved, reviewed and downloaded.
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Note: The information provided in this chapter is designed to be of a general
nature and it should be recognized that the actual operation of the system is
dependent on the assays that are run on the instrument.

Note: Different assays may require additional washing and cleaning steps
due to the viscous nature of the solutions used. The end-user is responsible
for adapting and validating the system for their specific assay and intended
use.
The SmartKit is the basis for system operation. Each SmartKit has reagents and instructions
for a single assay and must be coupled with a companion microplate. Samples are run against
the SmartKits that are loaded. The overall operation of the system is governed by the Worklist
which lists the assays that are to be performed on the samples that have been placed in the
system. A worklist can be created manually as described in Section 4.5.1 or via a Laboratory
Information System (LIS).
The analysis of samples will begin when all required materials and information for an assay
on the worklist has been loaded onto the system and the Start button is pressed on the Worklist
Filter screen. The order of the various operations for the assay is determined by the specific
requirements of the assay; if more than one assay is indicated on the worklist, it is possible
that processes for different assays might be run at the same time. The system automatically
generates a schedule based on the various processes that need to be performed to analyze the
samples in a manner to maximize system efficiency and throughput.
The Agility system is designed to allow for continuous sample loading and analysis,
replacement of consumables and SmartKits as well as the disposal of waste materials. On a
periodic basis, the system may generate messages to the operator to perform operations such
as Replace Sample Tips or Empty the Waste Bottle. Additional samples can be loaded during
the operation of the system, which will require new SmartKits and subsequent worklists.
The touchscreen is the main user interface; it presents details about system status, prompts the
operator to load additional consumables. As an example, it may present messages to perform
operations such as Replace Sample Tips or Empty the Waste Bottle. In addition, USB ports are
Agility System Operator's Manual
Chapter 4 Operating the Agility System
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