Loading Samples And Consumables; Loading Samples - Dynex Agility Automated ELISA System Operator's Manual

Chapter 4 Operating the Agility System

4.7 Loading Samples and Consumables

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Note: When a worklist is generated (Section 4.6), the system will check that the
required consumables, reagents, samples are present. When an item is loaded, the
system inventory is updated and compared to what is required for the performance
of the worklist. The precise order of loading samples, SmartKits and consumables
is up to the personal preference of the operator. The worklist execution of the
assays cannot be initiated until all necessary materials have been successfully
loaded.
If only sample tips are required the consumables needed for worklist operation should be
loaded before starting the worklist wizard. Wait until the transport arm camera has latched the
trays in place, scanned the drawers for its contents, and the drawer LED indicators have
turned solid blue.
If the worklist(s) require deep well dilution, do not load and consumables before starting the
worklist. Start the worklist and let the system prompt for consumables while the worklist is
running and place them in the exact locations shown. It is recommended that the system be
shut down through the End-of-Day operation and restarted after running each session.
It should be noted that the status of consumables and SmartKits is monitored by the system
and messages will be provided when additional items need to be loaded to meet the workload
requirements

4.7.1 Loading Samples

The Agility system can hold 200 Sample Tubes (10 racks of 20 Tubes) and can detect the tube
Position, Sample ID Barcode and the Sample Tube size detection (Height x Diameter). The
Supported Sample tube Size is 45-100mm x 10-17mm. The system includes a laser barcode
reader which interprets 1D barcode labels on the sample tubes.
Barcode Label Suggestions
The following recommendations are suggested for optimizing the success of barcode label
reading on sample tubes and plates:
1. When using an Ink Jet label maker, large dot spacing may increase the number of
blank scans. Therefore, test the labels before using them in an assay. The print quality is very
important to reliable scans.
2. Ensure the barcode density selected is between 5.0 mil and 20.0 mil. High quality
barcodes are required to read 5.0 mil to 7.0 mil density.
3. The Vertical Scanner can read test tube barcodes up to 85mm in length, including the
5 mm Quiet Zone on each side of the barcode. However, this length may vary, depending
upon the code type and barcode density. The operator should test to ensure that a specific
barcode topology can be reliably scanned.
4. The Horizontal Scanner can read barcodes that are between 26mm and 50mm in
length.
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Agility System Operator's Manual