Disposal of the Instrument and Materials ......77 Ordering Information ............79 Glossary and Abbreviations ..........83 Literature................85 Warranty Certificate............87 Specifications..............89 Index................. 95 Appendix A. Brief User’s Guide ..........99 Appendix B. Addresses............101 Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
Symbols and Markings SYMBOLS USED IN THE LUMINOSKAN ASCENT Power ON Power OFF Connection to the protective grounding system WARNING MARKINGS USED ON THE INSTRUMENT Caution: risk of electric shock. Caution: risk of personal injury to the operator or a safety hazard to the surrounding area.
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Luminoskan Ascent, Cat. no. 5300160 and 5300170 (with dispenser) User Manual Rev. 2.1; Dec. 2003, Cat. no. 1507520 Copyright 1995 – 2003 Thermo Electron Corporation. All rights reserved. Printed in Finland. Reproduction of the accompanying user documentation in whole or in part is prohibited.
Introduction The Luminoskan Ascent (Fig. 1) designed and made by Thermo Electron is a microplate luminometer which offers versatility and flexibility for even the most demanding luminometric applications. The instrument covers the full range of glow and flash luminometric applications.
15 mm, then an adapter must be used below the plate to raise the plate to the proper height. This adapter for low 384-well plates (Fig. 3.6:4) is included in the Luminoskan Ascent instrument and can also be ordered separately.
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Filter slot 7 is empty for measurement and filter slot 8 is blocked to enable measurement of the PMT (photomultiplier tube) dark current. DO NOT install any filters into slots 7 and 8. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
Rear view Mains power supply socket Power switch (ON/OFF) Power fuses Serial communication connector for the computer Identification plate Housing retaining screws Cooling-air outlet Fig. 2.2 Luminoskan Ascent rear view Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
Optical system In the Luminoskan Ascent the light beam is strictly limited by a light shield to avoid crosstalk. Mirror An optional filter in the filter wheel The photomultiplier tube (PMT) detects the light. Light shield Fig. 2.4 Principle of the optical system Control switches The control switch box (Fig.
Fig. 2.3. The dispensers consist of modular digital pumps with valves, syringes, tubing and dispensing heads. The dispensing heads have three alternative dispensing positions, one of these dispenses into the well in the measurement position. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
A1 corner of the microplate Positioning lever Adjustable stoppers Waste strip holder (opt., 4 wells) for the tip priming during the measurement session Plate carrier door Fig. 2.8 Plate carrier Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
Installation Upon delivery 3.1.1 Unpacking The Luminoskan Ascent is packed in a specially designed shipping carton. Move the unpacked instrument to its site of operation. To prevent condensation, the instrument should be left in its protective plastic wrapping until the ambient temperature has been reached. Unpack the Luminoskan Ascent instrument and accessories carefully with the arrows on the transport package pointing upwards.
3.1.2 Checking delivery for completeness Check the enclosed packing list against order. If any parts are missing, contact your local Thermo representative or Thermo Electron Oy. 3.1.3 Checking for damage during transport Visually inspect the transport package, the instrument and the accessories for any possible transport damage.
If any parts are damaged, contact your local Thermo representative or Thermo Electron Oy. 3.1.4 Environmental requirements and noise When you set up your Luminoskan Ascent, avoid sites of operation with excess dust, vibrations, strong magnetic fields, direct sunlight, draft, excessive moisture or large temperature fluctuations.
4. Lift the cover aside (Fig. 3.2a:4). 5. Undo the two screws (Fig. 3.2b:1) at the right rear corner of the measurement chamber. 6. Turn the locking piece upside down (Fig. 3.2b:2). Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
4. Connect the serial cable to the serial connector (Fig. 3.3:3) and secure it with the locking screws. Connect the other end similarly to the controlling computer. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
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Warning: Never operate your instrument from a power outlet that has no ground connection. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
Note that the plunger can be extremely firm. Instructions concerning the pump are reproduced from CAVRO XP3000 Modular Digital Pump Operators Manual made by Cavro Scientific Instruments, Inc., USA, 1994. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
(Fig. 3.5b) and the microplate is placed onto the drop plate. The holding capacity of the drop plate is 19 ml of liquid. Note: The drop plate cannot be used for bottom reading. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
Fig. 3.5a Drop plate Fig. 3.5b Drop plate placed into the plate carrier Plate adapters Reading certain plate types with the Luminoskan Ascent instrument requires special plate adapters (Fig. 3.6). These plate adapters are required for the following reasons: ...
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Adapter for Petri dish, 6 x 40 mm Adapter for 96-well PCR plates Adapter for Petri dish, 93 mm Adapter for low 384-well plates Fig. 3.6 Example of plate adapters Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
Adjusting the plate carrier The plate carrier of the Luminoskan Ascent has been designed for plates with different footprints and to be robot compatible. The plate carrier has two adjusting knobs with two different orientations. These knobs have been set for standard plate types at the factory.
The instrument also performs different kinds of additional runtime hardware tests before each measurement run, like automatic blanking. Because of the relative nature of luminometry, we recommend you use known samples or controls to verify proper instrument operation. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
Operation The Luminoskan Ascent is fully computer-controlled. Thermo Electron Ascent Software controls the reader functions and provides complete data handling and report formatting. For further details on how to use the software, refer to the Ascent Software User’s Guide. Warning: DO NOT use any other software than Thermo Electron software designed for this instrument.
(Fig. 4.2) will automatically position the plate correctly into the upper left corner of the carrier when the plate is driven in. A1 corner of the microplate Positioning lever Fig. 4.2 Plate carrier Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
DO NOT open the plate carrier door during measurement. Note: DO NOT install any filters into the filter wheel positions 7 and 8. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
You can find the scaling entry in Ascent Software. The menu selection is Setup|Filters. Select the corresponding filter or None and key in the scaling factor. The measured results are expressed as Relative Light Units (RLU). Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
If the incubation period is long without any other important functions, the Luminoskan Ascent automatically changes the place of the plate within the measurement chamber to minimize temperature differences between the wells.
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700 µl and the recommended volume is 2700 µl. The Luminoskan Ascent also has control switches for priming the dispenser tubing. With these switches, priming can be carried out alternatively by using an external priming vessel or by using an empty microplate on the plate carrier as a priming vessel or a drop plate.
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5 – 20 µl. Notice that the Execute by command causes the syringe to fill. A1 corner of the microplate Fig. 4.4.3b Tip priming vessel (1) is a piece of a breakable strip Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
The correct tip height is also important to prevent damaging the tip or the plate. Note: Ensure that the dispenser tips are always correctly inserted sufficiently deep into their slots. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
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2. The red adjustment collars (Fig. 4.4.4b:2) should be moved from one side of the fixed collar to the other to select the correct dispenser head height. 3. Fit the dispenser head tube back into place. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
Moderate effect – fair Severe effect – not recommended Instructions concerning the pump are reproduced from CAVRO XP 3000 Modular Digital Pump Operators Manual made by Cavro Scientific Instruments, Inc., USA. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
Fig. 4.5a Removing the light cover of the optical unit Undo the six screws, three screws on each side of the instrument (Fig. 4.5b:1), fixing the measurement chamber to the chassis. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
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Six screws, three screws on each side of the instrument Handle Flat cable Long finger nuts, 3 pieces Fig. 4.5b Removing the optical unit Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
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15. Fit the six screws back to hold the measurement chamber and replace the instrument cover. The unfitted cover may increase stray light and harm the measurement. 16. To change the measurement direction, the optical unit and the cover plate are interchangeable. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
4. Undo the three long finger nuts (Fig. 4.5b:4) and remove the optical unit or, if the optical unit is below the measurement chamber, remove the cover plate (Fig. 4.5c:1). Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
Section 4.5 Changing the measurement direction. If the optical unit is below the measurement chamber, undo the six screws (Fig. 4.5b:1) fixing the measurement chamber to the chassis. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
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2 Filter wheel Fig. 4.7a Filter wheels in the optical unit Undo the fitting screws (Fig. 4.7b:1). Remove the spring wheel (Fig. 4.7b:2). 10. Remove the spacer collar (Fig. 4.7b:3). Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
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Dummy filter or previous filter used Fig. 4.7b Filters in a filter wheel 13. Replace the optical unit and connect the flat cable. Lower the measurement chamber and replace the instrument cover. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
70% pure ethanol in distilled water or some other disinfectant. See Section 8.2 Decontamination procedure. • If you are not using the Luminoskan Ascent for an extended period of time, always clean the external surfaces of the instrument. • Finally put the dust cover on.
If you believe liquid has entered the luminometer, switch the instrument off and contact your local Thermo representative or Thermo Electron or for technical service (see Sections 8.1 Service request protocol and 8.4 Shipping the instrument (or items).
Visually check the filter(s) by holding it (them) against an even light source. If the color of the filter is even, then the filter is suitable for use. On the Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
In case of any spills of infectious agents, clean the plate carrier with disposable towels dampened with a disinfectant solution containing 2% glutaraldehyde. Always use disposable gloves. Place the disposable towels and gloves in a biohazardous waste container. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
3. Replace the faulty fuse with the spare provided with the accessories or with the same certified type. 4. Reconnect the instrument to the mains power supply. If the fuse blows again, contact your local Thermo representative for technical service. Mains power supply Fuse holder Fuse Fig.
30 minutes. Instructions concerning the pump are reproduced from CAVRO XP 3000 Modular Digital Pump Operators Manual made by Cavro Scientific Instruments, Inc., USA. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
Section 4.5 Changing the measurement direction. 2. If needed, clean the main lens according to the instructions in Sections 5.2 Cleaning the optical system. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
Alternatively, only some parts of the assemblies can also be replaced. If only the dispensing tubing is changed, first remove the complete dispensing tube assembly from the dispenser unit. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
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Insert the new dispensing tubing into the brass tube holder/locking ring and the internal dispenser head tube. Connect the dispensing tip with the connecting piece of silicone tubing into the new dispensing tubing. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
1. Remove the dispensing head tube (Fig. 5.6.2:1) from the brass tube holder (Fig. 5.6.2:3). 2. Replace the dispensing tip (Fig. 5.6.2:2) connected with a small piece of silicone tubing in the dispensing tube. 3. Replace the dispensing head tube. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
7. To fit the new dispenser syringe, screw the syringe into the valve, pull the syringe plunger down to the plunger holder arm and screw it into place. Make sure the plunger lock screw is securely tightened. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
Too low/high signal Changed scaling factor Check the scaling factor used Microplate material Check if the plate manufacturer or material has changed Continued Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
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Aspiration tube not in Ensure that there is a the liquid sufficient volume of liquid Cont. in the vial Continued Ensure that the aspiration tube end weight is at the Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
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Loosen the filter wheel screw Transportation lock not Remove the removed transportation lock Plate adapter for low Remove the adapter when 384-well plates left using 96-well plates under a 96-well plate Continued Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
Error messages Error messages issued by the instrument are listed in the Reference part of the Ascent Software User’s Guide in the chapter on warning and error messages. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
Luminoskan Ascent Can Luminoskan Ascent be upgraded for fluorometric applications? : Luminoskan Ascent is a dedicated luminometer with no possibility to add the fluorometric option. It is not possible to add the luminometric option to the Fluoroskan Ascent. Only the Fluoroskan Ascent FL can measure both fluorescence and luminescence.
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: Is it possible to measure 96-well PCR plates with the Luminoskan Ascent? : Yes, and you can use the Luminoskan Ascent for measuring both PCR plates and 0.2 ml PCR tubes but you need a special adapter. This adapter is suitable, for example, for Hybaid Omniplates, Robbins Cycloplates and Axygen PCR microplates or tubes from Greiner or Sarstedt.
Instrument Service Service request protocol If the Luminoskan Ascent requires service, contact your local Thermo representative or Thermo’s service department. DO NOT under any circumstances send the instrument for service without any prior contact. It is imperative to indicate the fault and nature of the required service. This will ensure a faster return of the instrument to the customer.
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Close the bag firmly and leave the instrument in the bag for at least 24 hours. Remove the instrument from the bag. Clean the instrument using a mild detergent. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
The decontamination procedure is required prior to shipping the instrument to Thermo Electron Oy, for example, for repair. If, for any reason, the instrument is shipped back to Thermo Electron Oy, it must be accompanied by a dated and signed Certificate of Decontamination which must be attached to the outside of the package containing the instrument.
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*) 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): _________________________________________________ Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
10. Indicate the fault after you have been in touch with your local Thermo representative or Thermo’s service department. 11. Enclose the return authorization number (RGA) given by the Thermo representative.
The proposals for the procedures vary by country. • Regarding the original packaging and packing materials, use the recycling operators known to you. • For further information, contact your local Thermo representative. Disposal of materials Refer to local regulations for the disposal of infectious material.
Fuse 3.5 A/250 V UL 198G Time Delay 1006470 Light shield 1002820 Red adjustment collar 10.3 Ordering filters When ordering luminometric filters, please contact Thermo Electron Oy. E-mail address: info.microplateinstruments@thermo.com. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
Light-emitting diode. Luminescence Emission of light (other than from thermal energy causes) such as bioluminescence. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
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The measured values are expressed as RLU. Scaling is a way to convert readings to show desired values. Self-tests Initialization tests and adjustments that the instrument performs prior to operation as well as autocalibration. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
Bioluminescence & Chemiluminescence (2001). Case J. F., Herring P. J., Robison B. H., Haddock S. H. D., Kricka L. J., Stanley P. E. (eds.). World Scientific Publishing Co. Pte. Ltd., Singapore; 517 pages. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
Thermo will repair or replace defective parts or materials during the term of warranty at no extra charge for materials and labor provided that the products were used and maintained in accordance with Thermo’s...
13.1 Warranty limitations The following items are not included in the warranty: • Consumables • Software programs • Fuses. Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
14. Specifications Thermo Electron reserves the right to change any specifications without prior notice as part of our continuous product development program. 14.1 General specifications Weight Basic unit 21 kg (46 lbs.). 3 optional dispensers add 3.5 kg to the weight.
14.2 Safety specifications The Luminoskan Ascent fulfills the following requirements: EN 61010-1:1993 + A2:1995/IEC 61010-1:1990 + A1:1992 + A2:1995 Installation Category (Overvoltage Category) II; Pollution Degree 2 EN 61010-2-010:1994 + A2:1996/IEC 61010-2-010:1992 + A1:1996 CSA C22.2 No. 1010.1 M1992 The safety specifications are also met under the following environmental...
Type 392 100 – 240 Vac 50/60 Hz, 200 VA CE mark CSA monogram UL monogram The Luminoskan Ascent 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 Safety performance:...
Luminometric Up to approx. 5000 Relative Light Units (RLU) measurement range Luminometric sensitivity 1 fmol ATP/well (typical) in a white Thermo Electron 96-well strip plate (Thermo Electron ATP monitoring kit). Limit = (2 x SD ) / I Blank...
Procedure Desktop toolbar of Ascent Software. • Follow the instructions provided by the software. • Switch the instrument OFF after routine operation (p. 53). Maintain the Luminoskan Ascent instrument on a regular basis • (p. 55). Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
For the latest information on products and services, visit our worldwide web sites on the Internet at: http://www.thermo.com Manufactured by: Distributed by: P.O. Box 100, FIN-01621 Vantaa, Finland Tel. +358-9-329 100, Fax +358-9-3291 0415 www.thermo.com Luminoskan Ascent User Manual Rev. 2.1, Cat. no. 1507520...
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