Molecular Devices QPix 420 User Manual
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Molecular Devices QPix 420 User Manual

Colony picking system
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QPix 420
Colony Picking System
User Guide
5031496 G
August 2022

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  • Page 1 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 5031496 G August 2022...
  • Page 2 For research use only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures. The trademarks mentioned herein are the property of Molecular Devices, LLC or their respective owners. These trademarks may not be used in any type of promotion or advertising without the prior written permission of Molecular Devices, LLC.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Contents Safety Information Warnings, Cautions, Notes, and Tips Symbols on the Instrument Before Operating the Instrument Electrical Safety Ultraviolet (UV) Light Safety Magnet Safety External or Implanted Medical Device Safety Heat and Burn Safety Chemical and Biological Safety Moving Parts Safety Cleaning and Maintenance Chapter 1: Introduction Functionality of the QPix 420 System...
  • Page 4 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Chapter 6: Picking Processes Creating and Editing Picking Processes Running Picking Processes Chapter 7: Blue-White Picking Processes Creating and Editing Blue-White Picking Processes Running Blue-White Picking Processes Chapter 8: Zone of Inhibition Detection Picking Processes...
  • Page 5 Exporting Data and Settings Working With Plate Properties Viewing Receptacle Location Maps Working With Sample Trails Chapter 17: Maintenance Doing Preventive Maintenance Cleaning the Instrument Testing the Pins Aligning the Camera Replacing Fuses Draining the Compressor Moving the Instrument Adding a New User to the SQL Server Database Running the Software as an Administrator Resetting the Path to the SQL Server Obtaining Support...
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  • Page 7: Safety Information

    When warnings and cautions are displayed in this guide, be careful to follow the specific safety information related to them. The following user-attention statements can be displayed in the text of Molecular Devices user documentation. Each statement implies a particular amount of observation or recommended...

  • Page 8: Symbols On The Instrument

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Symbols on the Instrument Each safety label on the instrument contains an alert symbol that indicates a type of potential safety hazard. Symbol Indication Indicates a warning for a situation or operation that could cause personal injury if precautions are not followed.

  • Page 9: Before Operating The Instrument

    For products under the requirement of the WEEE directive, contact your dealer or local Molecular Devices office for the procedures to facilitate the proper collection, treatment, recovery, recycling, and safe disposal of the device.

  • Page 10: Ultraviolet (Uv) Light Safety

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide WARNING! HIGH VOLTAGE  Power off the instrument and disconnect the power cord before you do maintenance procedures that require removal of a panel or cover or disassembly of an interior instrument component. Do not try to use the instrument until all covers are replaced.

  • Page 11: Chemical And Biological Safety

    Safety Information Chemical and Biological Safety Normal operation of the instrument can involve the use of materials that are toxic, flammable, or otherwise biologically harmful. When using such materials, observe the following precautions: Handle infectious samples based on good laboratory procedures and methods to prevent the spread of disease.

  • Page 12: Cleaning And Maintenance

    Unplug the instrument if there is a fluid spill in the instrument and contact Technical Support. Perform only the maintenance tasks described in this guide. Contact a Molecular Devices service engineer to inspect and perform a preventive maintenance service on the instrument each year.

  • Page 13: Chapter 1: Introduction

    For research use only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures. Functionality of the QPix 420 System The QPix 420 system is part of the QPix 400 series. The QPix 420 system offers a range of features to accommodate various requirements for picking of microbial colonies including multiple imaging modes, organism-specific pins, agar height sensor, and specific algorithms to detect variable biological samples.
  • Page 14 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Picking Microbial Colonies The QPix 420 system can automatically pick more than 3000 colonies per hour. This is done with an integrated vision, detection, and analysis hardware and software system and a 96-pin head assembly, all custom designed by Molecular Devices.

  • Page 15: Chapter 2: Qpix 420 System Instrument Overview

    Chapter 2: QPix 420 System Instrument Overview The QPix 420 Colony Picking System is constructed within a welded steel framework. Before operating the instrument or performing maintenance operations, make sure you are familiar with the safety information in this guide. See...

  • Page 16: Front Panel Controls And Display

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Front Panel Controls and Display Front Panel Controls and Display Item Description 1  LCD indicator panel 2  START button 3  STOP button 4  Emergency Stop button 5  Power is on 6  Air pressure is low 7 ...

  • Page 17: Instrument Connections

    Chapter 2: QPix 420 System Instrument Overview Instrument Connections The power, data, and compressed air connections are on the right side of the instrument. Connection Ports and Fuses Item Description 1  Power Inlet: Instrument Mains 2  Power Outlets: Computer and Monitor 3 ...

  • Page 18: Compressed Air Supply

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Compressed Air Supply Compressed air is required for the picking movement of the picking pins. Laboratories with built-in compressed air systems can connect directly to the filter-regulator inlet on the side of the QPix instrument. Alternatively, an optional oil-free compressed air unit can be connected that draws air from the local environment and delivers it to the instrument through the filter-regulator inlet.

  • Page 19: Computer System Requirements

    Chapter 2: QPix 420 System Instrument Overview Computer System Requirements The QPix 420 software version 2.5.79 upgrade requires the following computer specifications: Minimum Computer System Requirements Item Description Operating system Windows 10, 64-bit Windows 7, 32-bit Memory 4 GB RAM Data Connection 10/100 Ethernet port Camera Connection USB 2.0 port...
  • Page 20 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 5031496 G...

  • Page 21: Chapter 3: Qpix 420 Software Overview

    Chapter 3: QPix 420 Software Overview The QPix 420 Colony Picking Software controls the QPix 420 Colony Picking System. To start the software, from the Windows desktop, double-click the QPix 420 Colony Picking icon. When the software first starts, the Navigation window displays the New Process tab. The processes that appear depend on the modules you bought and installed.

  • Page 22: Menu Options

    Administrate Properties lets you change the Properties view and default values. Tools Menu Configuration displays the Edit Configuration dialog. Note: Molecular Devices recommends that only trained personnel configure these settings. Hardware Model View displays an interactive 3-D model of the instrument.

  • Page 23: New Process Options

    Chapter 3: QPix 420 Software Overview New Process Options The New Process tab of the Navigation window gives you a full set of options for creating and managing processes and system maintenance. The processes that are available depend on the licenses that you bought with your system. Gridding Processes Gridding deposits liquid samples from one or more source plates to one or more destination surfaces using either agar filled QTrays or filters.
  • Page 24 OmniTray, 1-way, 4-way, or 5-way petri dish holders. Only one style per holder type can be set as the default, either the original style, or the adjustable style. Maintenance Processes Note: Molecular Devices recommends that only trained personnel configure these settings. 5031496 G...

  • Page 25: Chapter 4: Starting And Setting Up The Instrument

    Chapter 4: Starting and Setting Up the Instrument The QPix 420 Colony Picking System must be located in a well-ventilated area. The instrument is installed by approved personnel with the software pre-installed on the system computer. For more information about the installation requirements, see Technical Specifications on page 219.
  • Page 26 Shutting Down the System To shut down the system: 1. In the Navigation window of the QPix 420 system Colony Picking, click File > Exit. The software closes down. 2. From the computer desktop, click Start > Shut Down and wait for the computer to turn off.

  • Page 27: Preparing To Run Processes

    Chapter 4: Starting and Setting Up the Instrument Preparing to Run Processes Molecular Devices recommends regular and thorough cleaning and maintenance of the QPix 420 system Instrument to ensure that it continues to function correctly. See Maintenance on page 195.

  • Page 28: Changing The Head

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Wash Bath 3 (closest to the front): 1% sodium hypochlorite (bleach) CAUTION! Bleach can cause corrosion if it is left in the instrument for too long. Remove the bleach from the instrument immediately after its use. In general, bleach is required only for difficult-to-sterilize organisms.
  • Page 29 Chapter 4: Starting and Setting Up the Instrument Removing the Head To remove the head: 1. Unscrew and remove the thumbscrew and washer on the left that secures the head to the actuator assembly. 2. Grab the handle on the right and slide the head out of the actuator. 3.
  • Page 30 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 5031496 G...

  • Page 31: Chapter 5: Sanitizing The Instrument Interior

    Chapter 5: Sanitizing the Instrument Interior Before you start a new process, Molecular Devices recommends that you manually clean the QPix 420 Colony Picking System interior. For information on manually cleaning the instrument, see Cleaning the Instrument on page 196.

  • Page 32: Running Uv Sanitise Processes

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Running UV Sanitise Processes The UV Sanitise process uses ultra-violet light to sanitize the instrument interior. Before running a UV Sanitise process, Molecular Devices recommends that you manually clean the instrument interior. To run the UV Sanitise process: 1.

  • Page 33: Creating And Editing Sanitise Profiles

    Chapter 5: Sanitizing the Instrument Interior Creating and Editing Sanitise Profiles The QPix 420 Colony Picking comes with one default Sanitise profile. If this is the first time doing a routine, Molecular Devices recommends that you open Manage Sanitise Profiles to edit the supplied default profile to suit your specific needs.
  • Page 34 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Creating Sanitise Profiles In the Manage Sanitise Profiles window, you can create, edit, or delete a Sanitise profile. To create a new Sanitise profile: 1. From the Navigation window under Utility Processes, double-click Manage Sanitise Profiles.
  • Page 35 Chapter 5: Sanitizing the Instrument Interior Editing Sanitise Profiles To edit a Sanitise profile: 1. From the Navigation window under Utility Processes, double-click Manage Sanitise Profiles 2. In the Manage Sanitise Profiles window, in the Profiles table, click the profile you want to edit.
  • Page 36 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 3. From the Stages list, if needed, select the wash stage that you want to edit, and click Edit. In the Steps area, the Add and Remove button are available in Edit mode.
  • Page 37 Chapter 5: Sanitizing the Instrument Interior Deleting Sanitise Profiles To delete a Sanitise profile: 1. From the Navigation window under Utility Processes, double-click the Manage Sanitise Profiles icon. 2. In the Manage Sanitise Profiles window, in the Profiles table, click the profile you want to delete.
  • Page 38 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 5031496 G...

  • Page 39: Chapter 6: Picking Processes

    Chapter 6: Picking Processes The QPix 420 Colony Picking System can pick colonies from receptacles using either standard picking or regional picking. You can set up control wells for the destination plates before running a picking process. The following options are available in the Navigation window under Picking Processes: Picking picks colonies from receptacles using the standard process described in this chapter.

  • Page 40: Creating And Editing Picking Processes

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Creating and Editing Picking Processes The procedures to create and edit standard or regional picking processes are very similar. The regional picking process has more options to define the regions for picking. If this is the first picking process, you must edit or create a Sanitise profile to use with the picking process.
  • Page 41 Chapter 6: Picking Processes Adding and Removing Picking Routines The Select Routine list contains the routines that are in the database. Only routines that match the type of routine that you are creating are included in the list. For example, a white light and fluorescent imaging routine is not included in the Select Routine list if you are creating a White Light only routine.
  • Page 42 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Using a Barcode Reader Note: You should always use barcodes for accurate data tracking. To use a barcode reader: 1. Select the Use Barcode Reader check box to scan source and destination receptacles for barcodes.
  • Page 43 Chapter 6: Picking Processes 2. Select the method to define the unique identifiers. To have the software generate random identifiers with the prefix Auto for the source receptacles, select the Generate Random Barcodes check box. No other parameters are required for this option. To manually define identifiers for the source receptacles, enter each identifier in the field below the Barcode list and then click Insert.
  • Page 44 1. In the Destination Options window, from the Select Destination Microplate list, select the plate type to be inoculated with the picked colonies. If the plate type that you need is not listed, contact Molecular Devices to add a new plate type to the list. See Obtaining Support on page 209.
  • Page 45 Chapter 6: Picking Processes 6. Under Destination Microplate Template, click Edit to define the wells to dip or skip. You can skip wells that you want to use as blank or control wells. The defined template is used for all the destination plates during the picking routine.
  • Page 46 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Setting Source Receptacle Options To set source receptacle options: 1. In the Source window, from the Holder list, select the type of holder used to hold the source receptacles on the instrument deck.
  • Page 47 Chapter 6: Picking Processes Changing the Picking Head The Change Head window reminds you which picking head must be loaded, based on the Setting Summary routine you configured, and provides you an opportunity to change the head. The head is housed in a unique actuator system that permits easy exchange and set-up of the head.

  • Page 48: Running Picking Processes

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Running Picking Processes After a picking routine has been configured, you can run the process on the instrument. If you have not configured the picking routine you want to run, you must create a new picking routine or edit an existing routine.
  • Page 49 Chapter 6: Picking Processes 8. When the Please Load Source window displays, load the source receptacles in the correct locations on the instrument deck. Tip: If needed, the filter must be installed between the lightbed and the source tray before continuing. 9.
  • Page 50 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 2. Under Acquisition, adjust the Exposure and Gain settings. In the Exposure (ms) field, enter the number of milliseconds (from 10 to 1000) to expose the sample to light when acquiring the image.
  • Page 51 Chapter 6: Picking Processes 6. With the Auto Threshold Each Frame check box selected, enter threshold values in the Low Limit and High Limit fields. To determine the Low Limit value, clear the Use Auto Thresholding check box and then drag the slider to the left until some background is clearly detected. Select the Use Auto Thresholding check box and the Auto Threshold Each Frame check box again and then enter the value from the Threshold field into the Low Limit field.
  • Page 52 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 11. Select the Debris tab. 12. Adjust the Diameter and Axis Ratio to exclude objects that are smaller than the desired colonies. Each detected feature displays within a yellow ring while excluded features do not have a yellow ring.
  • Page 53 Chapter 6: Picking Processes To adjust the test image: 1. From the Receptacle list, select the number of the receptacle to view and then click the frame to view in the receptacle image below the list. The frame is in red. 2.
  • Page 54 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide In the Feature Selection window, pickable objects show in yellow and unpickable object show in red outline. A colony can be considered unpickable if it is too close to the edge of the receptacle or it does not match the selection criteria.
  • Page 55 Chapter 6: Picking Processes To change the selection of the system-chosen pickable objects that display in the image map, click the +/- user selection button to override the system-chosen and unchosen objects, and then click the objects in the image map that you want to change. When clicked as an override, the yellow-marked pickable objects change to blue and become unpickable.
  • Page 56 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide To undo all selections, click the Remove User Selections icon to display the Remove User Selections dialog. Click Yes. If you run a routine for white light and fluorescent imaging, two tabs are available.
  • Page 57 Chapter 6: Picking Processes 3. For a fluorescent image, adjust the Intensity Measure as shown in the histogram. This option is available only for instruments with a fluorescence imaging module. Mean Intensity is the average fluorescence of the detected colony (the fluorescence of all the pixels within the colony perimeter divided by the number of pixels within the colony perimeter).
  • Page 58 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 7. Select the Display Options tab to change the display options of the source receptacle image. Select the Display Detected Features check box to display all detected features with a yellow circle. Select the Shade Features check box to give the detected colonies some shading for clearer visualization.
  • Page 59 Chapter 6: Picking Processes 14. When the Finished Picking Current Batch dialog displays, select an option for how you want to continue, then click OK. Viewing the Picking Progress While the picking routine is running, the Picking Progress window displays a summary of the routine.
  • Page 60 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Continuing or Ending the Picking Routine After all the colonies have been picked from the source receptacles and delivered to the destination plates, the Finished Picking Current Batch dialog displays. If there are no more source receptacles to be picked, click Finish Picking and then click OK.
  • Page 61 Chapter 6: Picking Processes Changing the Picking Head The Change Head window reminds you which picking head must be loaded, based on the Setting Summary routine you configured, and provides you an opportunity to change the head. The head is housed in a unique actuator system that permits easy exchange and set-up of the head.
  • Page 62 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 5031496 G...

  • Page 63: Chapter 7: Blue-White Picking Processes

    Chapter 7: Blue-White Picking Processes The QPix 420 Colony Picking System can pick colonies from receptacles using either standard picking or regional picking. You can set up control wells for the destination plates before running a picking process. The following options are available in the Navigation window under Picking Processes: Picking picks colonies from receptacles using the standard process.

  • Page 64: Creating And Editing Blue-White Picking Processes

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Creating and Editing Blue-White Picking Processes The procedures for creating and editing picking processes are similar. The regional picking process has more options available for defining the regions for picking. Blue-White picking can be run as either a standard picking process or a regional picking process.
  • Page 65 Chapter 7: Blue-White Picking Processes Adding and Removing Blue-White Picking Routines The Select Routine list contains the routines that are in the database. Only routines that match the type of routine that you are creating are included in the list. For example, a white light and fluorescent imaging routine is not included in the Select Routine list if you are creating a White Light only routine.
  • Page 66 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Selecting Barcode Options When you create or edit a routine for white light only, the Barcodes window displays. Using a Barcode Reader Note: You should always use barcodes for accurate data tracking. To use a barcode reader: 1.
  • Page 67 Chapter 7: Blue-White Picking Processes Defining Unique Identifiers Without Barcodes To define unique identifiers without barcodes: 1. Clear the Use Barcode Reader check box to define unique identifiers for source receptacles without scanning for barcodes. 2. Select the method to define the unique identifiers. To have the software generate random identifiers with the prefix Auto for the source receptacles, select the Generate Random Barcodes check box.
  • Page 68 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Setting Destination Plate Options To set destination plate options: 1. In the Destination Options window, from the Select Destination Microplate list, select the plate type to inoculate with the picked colonies. 2. Select either to dip the pins a number of times or to stir the wells of the destination plate during inoculation.
  • Page 69 Chapter 7: Blue-White Picking Processes Selecting the Head and Sanitizing Options To select the head and sanitizing options: 1. In the Head and Sanitise window, from the Picking Head list, select the head to use for the picking routine. 2. In the Pin Columns (Rows) Before Inoculation list, select the number of pins to use to pick in each column or row before transferring the picked colonies to the destination plate.
  • Page 70 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Viewing the Settings Summary The Settings Summary window contains a full summary of the picking routine settings. Review the summary details to make sure that the settings and options are configured correctly for the picking routine. If you must make changes, click Back until you return to the window where the changes can be made.

  • Page 71: Running Blue-White Picking Processes

    Chapter 7: Blue-White Picking Processes Running Blue-White Picking Processes After a blue-white picking routine has been configured, you can run the process on the instrument. If you have not configured the blue-white picking routine you want to run, you must create a new picking routine or edit an existing routine.
  • Page 72 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 8. When the Please Load Source window displays, load the source receptacles in the correct locations on the instrument deck. Tip: If needed, the filter must be installed between the lightbed and the source tray before continuing.
  • Page 73 Adjust the Gain to increase the image signal without changing the light exposure. Tip: Molecular Devices recommends not changing the default Gain setting. After you adjust the Exposure or Gain settings, click Grab Image to apply the new settings to the test image.
  • Page 74 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 4. In the Threshold intensity histogram, click and drag the red slider line to the right of the large spike to view the White colonies as green spots. Click and drag the red slider to the left of the large spike to view the Blue colonies as dark black spots against the background.
  • Page 75 Chapter 7: Blue-White Picking Processes 9. Adjust the Diameter and Axis Ratio to exclude objects that are smaller than the desired colonies. Each detected feature displays within a yellow ring while excluded features do not have a yellow ring. In the Diameter (mm) field enter a value in millimeters for the minimum diameter of the required colonies.
  • Page 76 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Note: During image processing, each object without a yellow ring in the test image is excluded from becoming a pickable object. Drag the Zoom slider below the image to get a closer look at the image and drag the Contrast slider to change the contrast between the objects and the background.
  • Page 77 Chapter 7: Blue-White Picking Processes To change the selection of the system-chosen pickable objects that are displayed in the image map, click the +/- user selection button to override the system-chosen and unchosen objects, and then click the objects in the image map to change. When clicked as an override, the yellow-marked pickable objects change to blue and become unpickable.
  • Page 78 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide To undo all the selections, click the Remove User Selections icon to display the Remove User Selections dialog. Click Yes. If you run a routine for white light and fluorescent imaging, two tabs are available.
  • Page 79 Chapter 7: Blue-White Picking Processes 3. For a fluorescent image, adjust the Intensity Measure as shown in the histogram. This option is available only for instruments with a fluorescence imaging module. Mean Intensity is the average fluorescence of the detected colony (the fluorescence of all the pixels within the colony perimeter divided by the number of pixels within the colony perimeter).
  • Page 80 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 7. Select the Display Options tab to change the display options of the source receptacle image. Select the Display Detected Features check box to display all detected features with a yellow circle. Select the Shade Features check box to give the detected colonies some shading for clearer visualization.
  • Page 81 Chapter 7: Blue-White Picking Processes 14. When the Finished Picking Current Batch dialog displays, select an option for how you want to continue, then click OK. Viewing the Picking Progress While the picking routine runs, the Picking Progress window displays a summary of the routine. Start Time shows the time that the picking of the colonies began.
  • Page 82 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Continuing or Ending the Picking Routine After all the colonies are picked from the source receptacles and delivered to the destination plates, the Finished Picking Current Batch dialog displays. If there are no more source receptacles to pick, click Finish Picking and then click OK.

  • Page 83: Chapter 8: Zone Of Inhibition Detection Picking Processes

    Chapter 8: Zone of Inhibition Detection Picking Processes The QPix 420 Colony Picking System can pick colonies from receptacles using either standard picking or regional picking. You can set up control wells for the destination plates before running a picking process.

  • Page 84: Creating And Editing Zone Of Inhibition Detection Picking Processes

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Creating and Editing Zone of Inhibition Detection Picking Processes The procedures for creating and editing picking processes are similar. The regional picking process has more options available for defining the regions for picking. Zone of Inhibition Detection picking is similar to the standard picking process.
  • Page 85 Chapter 8: Zone of Inhibition Detection Picking Processes Adding and Removing Zone of Inhibition Detection Picking Routines The Select Routine list contains the routines that are in the database. Only routines that match the type of routine that you are creating are included in the list. For example, a white light and fluorescent imaging routine is not included in the Select Routine list if you are creating a White Light only routine.
  • Page 86 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Selecting Barcode Options When you are creating or editing a White Light only routine, the Barcodes window displays. Using a Barcode Reader Note: You should always use barcodes for accurate data tracking. To use a barcode reader: 1.
  • Page 87 Chapter 8: Zone of Inhibition Detection Picking Processes Defining Unique Identifiers Without Barcodes To define unique identifiers without barcodes: 1. Clear the Use Barcode Reader check box to define unique identifiers for source receptacles without scanning for barcodes. 2. Select the method to define the unique identifiers. To have the software generate random identifiers with the prefix Auto for the source receptacles, select the Generate Random Barcodes check box.
  • Page 88 1. In the Destination Options window, from the Select Destination Microplate list, select the plate type to inoculate with the picked colonies. If the plate type that you need is not listed, contact Molecular Devices to add a new plate type to the list. See Obtaining Support on page 209.
  • Page 89 Chapter 8: Zone of Inhibition Detection Picking Processes Selecting the Head and Sanitizing Options To select the head and sanitize options: 1. In the Head and Sanitise window, from the Picking Head list, select the head to use for the picking routine.
  • Page 90 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Viewing the Settings Summary The Settings Summary window contains a full summary of the picking routine settings. Review the summary details to make sure that the settings and options are configured correctly for the picking routine. If you must make changes, click Back until you return to the window where the changes can be made.

  • Page 91: Running Zone Of Inhibition Detection Picking Processes

    Chapter 8: Zone of Inhibition Detection Picking Processes Running Zone of Inhibition Detection Picking Processes After you configure a Zone of Inhibition Detection picking routine, you can run the process on the instrument. If you have not configured the Zone of Inhibition Detection picking routine you want to run, you must create a new Zone of Inhibition Detection picking routine or edit a routine.
  • Page 92 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 7. Click Next. 8. When the Please Load Source window displays, load the source receptacles in the correct locations on the instrument deck. Tip: If needed, the filter must be installed between the lightbed and the source tray before continuing.
  • Page 93 Chapter 8: Zone of Inhibition Detection Picking Processes 2. Under Acquisition, adjust the Exposure and Gain settings. In the Exposure (ms) field, enter the number of milliseconds (from 10 to 1000) to expose the sample to light when acquiring the image. Adjust the Gain to increase the image signal without changing the light exposure.
  • Page 94 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Selecting Zone of Inhibition Detection Colonies for Picking After you adjust and refine test images, the system captures and processes a higher-resolution image using the test-image adjustments and then displays the Feature Selection window.
  • Page 95 Chapter 8: Zone of Inhibition Detection Picking Processes To display all found colonies in a gallery, click View Feature Gallery. The first time the gallery opens, a message displays while the gallery thumbnails generate. This only displays on the first opening for each run.
  • Page 96 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide To undo all your user selections, click the Remove User Selections icon to display the Remove User Selections dialog. Click Yes. To select the colonies for picking: 1. From the list in the upper-right area, select the barcode or identifier of the receptacle to view.
  • Page 97 Chapter 8: Zone of Inhibition Detection Picking Processes 3. Change the pickable property of individual objects. To define an object as pickable, right-click the object and select Pick Item to display the object in green. To define an object as unpickable, right-click the object and select Discard Item to display the object in blue.
  • Page 98 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Viewing the Picking Progress While the picking routine is running, the Picking Progress window displays a summary of the routine. Start Time shows the time that the picking of the colonies began. Source Barcode shows the barcode or identifier of the source receptacle being picked from.

  • Page 99: Chapter 9: Regional Picking Processes

    Chapter 9: Regional Picking Processes The QPix 420 Colony Picking System can pick colonies from receptacles using either standard picking or regional picking. You can set up control wells for the destination plates before running a picking process. The following options are available in the Navigation window under Picking Processes: Picking picks colonies from receptacles using the standard process.

  • Page 100: Creating And Editing Regional Picking Processes

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Creating and Editing Regional Picking Processes The procedures to create and edit standard or regional picking processes are similar. The regional picking process has more options available for defining the regions for picking.
  • Page 101 Chapter 9: Regional Picking Processes Adding and Removing Regional Picking Routines The Select Routine list contains the routines that are in the database. Only routines that match the type of routine that you are creating are included in the list. For example, a white light and fluorescent imaging routine is not included in the Select Routine list if you are creating a White Light only routine.
  • Page 102 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Selecting Barcode Options and Filter Pairs for Fluorescent Imaging If you create or edit a routine for white light only, the Barcodes window displays. If you create or edit a routine for white light and fluorescent imaging, the Filter Pair and Barcodes window displays.
  • Page 103 Chapter 9: Regional Picking Processes Defining Unique Identifiers Without Barcodes To define unique identifiers without barcodes: 1. Clear the Use Barcode Reader check box to define unique identifiers for source receptacles without scanning for barcodes. 2. Select the method to define the unique identifiers. To have the software generate random identifiers with the prefix Auto for the source receptacles, select the Generate Random Barcodes check box.
  • Page 104 Holder list, in which case the Receptacle option is preset and cannot be changed. If the type of source receptacle that you need is not listed, contact Molecular Devices to add a new source receptacle type to the list. See Obtaining Support on page 209.
  • Page 105 Chapter 9: Regional Picking Processes Setting Regional Picking Source and Destination Options To set the regional picking source and destination options: 1. In the Destination/Source Options window, select the Limit Max. Number of Features Per Region check box and then in the Number of Features Per Region field, enter the maximum number of colonies that can be picked from a single source receptacle.
  • Page 106 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Selecting the Head and Sanitizing Options To select the head and sanitizing options: 1. In the Head and Sanitise window, from the Picking Head list, select the head to use for the picking routine.
  • Page 107 Chapter 9: Regional Picking Processes Changing the Picking Head The Change Head window reminds you which picking head must be loaded, based on the Setting Summary routine you configure, and provides you an opportunity to change the head. The head is housed in a unique actuator system that permits easy exchange and set-up of the head.

  • Page 108: Running Regional Picking Processes

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Running Regional Picking Processes After a regional picking routine has been configured, you can run the process on the instrument. If you have not configured the regional picking routine to run, you must create a new regional picking routine or edit a routine.
  • Page 109 Chapter 9: Regional Picking Processes Adjusting the White Light Test Image In the Test Image window, view detected features as potential colonies to pick for inoculation of the destination plates. To make sure that only colonies are detected, adjust the test image using the Exposure and Gain settings, the Detection settings, the Display settings, the Debris settings, and the Depth settings.
  • Page 110 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 6. With the Auto Threshold Each Region check box selected, enter threshold values in the Low Limit and High Limit fields. To determine the Low Limit value, clear the Use Auto Thresholding check box and then drag the slider to the left until some background is clearly detected.
  • Page 111 Chapter 9: Regional Picking Processes 14. Adjust the Agar Depth, Height, and Maximum Height manually. In the Agar Depth (mm) field, enter a value in millimeters for the depth that the picking head descends into the source agar. The Agar Height (mm) field is read only and displays the height, or thickness, of the detected agar within the source tray.
  • Page 112 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 2. Under Acquisition, adjust the Exposure and Gain settings. In the Exposure (ms) field, enter the number of milliseconds (from 10 to 1000) to expose the sample to light when acquiring the image.
  • Page 113 Chapter 9: Regional Picking Processes To view the details of a colony, hold the cursor over that colony to display the properties of that colony. If a colony is not selected as pickable, the reason for the exclusion displays in red text. Note: During image processing, each object with no yellow ring in the test image is excluded from becoming a pickable object.
  • Page 114 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide When clicked as an override, the red-marked unpickable objects change to green and become pickable. To undo the selection, right-click over the image map and select Discard Item. The object changes to blue and becomes unpickable.
  • Page 115 Chapter 9: Regional Picking Processes To select the colonies for regional picking: 1. From the list in the upper-right, select the barcode or identifier of the receptacle to view. 2. Refine the colony Selection criteria. Compactness sets the level of irregularity for picking colonies. The value is a ratio of the perimeter divided by the area of the colony, so that irregular shaped colonies are closer to 0 and colonies that are more of a perfect circle are closer to 1.
  • Page 116 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 5. In the Limit Colonies field, enter the maximum number of colonies to pick from each region. If a limit was previously set for the maximum number of colonies in the Destination/Source Options window, the Limit Colonies option is not available in the Feature Selection window.
  • Page 117 Chapter 9: Regional Picking Processes Start Time shows the time that the picking of the colonies began. Source Barcode shows the barcode or identifier of the source receptacle being picked from. Pin is the picking pin being used for the current picking operation. Copy Plate No is the barcode of the copy receptacle that is being inoculated, if you select Make Copy for the routine.
  • Page 118 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide To save this information in .csv format, click Export. To view details of all activities related to the source and destination receptacles, click Details. To save the detailed information in .csv format, click Export.

  • Page 119: Chapter 10: Blue-White Regional Picking Processes

    Chapter 10: Blue-White Regional Picking Processes The QPix 420 Colony Picking System can pick colonies from receptacles using either standard picking or regional picking. You can set up control wells for the destination plates before running a picking process. The following options are available in the Navigation window under Picking Processes: Picking picks colonies from receptacles using the standard process.

  • Page 120: Creating And Editing Blue-White Regional Picking Processes

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Creating and Editing Blue-White Regional Picking Processes The procedures to create and edit standard or regional picking processes are similar. The regional picking process has more options available for defining the regions for picking.

  • Page 121: Selecting Blue-White Regional Picking Routines

    Chapter 10: Blue-White Regional Picking Processes Selecting Blue-White Regional Picking Routines 1. In the Routines window, select to create a new routine or to edit a routine. To create a new routine, click New Routine. To edit a routine, click Run Existing Routine and then select the name of the routine from the Select Routine list.

  • Page 122: Selecting Barcode Options

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Deleting Routines You should export the routine before you delete it. This lets you import the routine after time. To delete a routine, select the routine in the Select Routine list and then click Delete. In the Delete Routine dialog, click OK to remove the routine from the database.
  • Page 123 Chapter 10: Blue-White Regional Picking Processes Defining Unique Identifiers Without Barcodes To define unique identifiers without barcodes: 1. Clear the Use Barcode Reader check box to define unique identifiers for source receptacles without scanning for barcodes. 2. Select the method to define the unique identifiers. To have the software generate random identifiers with the prefix Auto for the source receptacles, select the Generate Random Barcodes check box.

  • Page 124: Setting Destination Plate Options

    Holder list, in which case the Receptacle option is preset and cannot be changed. If the type of source receptacle that you need is not listed, contact Molecular Devices to add a new source receptacle type to the list. See Obtaining Support on page 209.
  • Page 125 Chapter 10: Blue-White Regional Picking Processes Setting Regional Picking Source and Destination Options To set regional picking source and destination options: 1. In the Destination/Source Options window, select the Limit Max. Number of Features Per Region check box and in the Number of Features Per Region field, enter the maximum number of colonies to pick from a single source receptacle.

  • Page 126: Viewing The Settings Summary

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Selecting the Head and Sanitizing Options To select the head and sanitizing options: 1. In the Head and Sanitise window, from the Picking Head list, select the head to use for the picking routine.
  • Page 127 Chapter 10: Blue-White Regional Picking Processes Changing the Picking Head The Change Head window reminds you which picking head must be loaded, based on the Setting Summary routine you configure, and provides you an opportunity to change the head. The head is housed in a unique actuator system that permits easy exchange and set-up of the head.

  • Page 128: Running Blue-White Regional Picking Processes

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Running Blue-White Regional Picking Processes After you configure a regional picking routine, you can run the process on the instrument. If you have not configured the regional picking routine you want to run, you must create a new blue- white regional picking routine or edit an existing routine.
  • Page 129 Chapter 10: Blue-White Regional Picking Processes 5. Remove all plate lids. 6. In the Load Plates window, follow the instructions to correctly place the destination plates. 7. Click Next. 8. When the Please Load Source window displays, load the source receptacles in the correct locations on the instrument deck.
  • Page 130 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide To adjust the test image: 1. From the Receptacle list, select the number of the receptacle to view and click the frame to view in the receptacle image below the list. The frame is in red.
  • Page 131 Chapter 10: Blue-White Regional Picking Processes To manually select blue or white colonies: To manually select Blue Colonies, select an Intensity Range that starts near the left side of the histogram and ends to the left of the large spike that represents the largest area, which is the agar.
  • Page 132 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Selecting Blue-White Colonies for Regional Picking After you adjust and refine test images, the system captures and processes a higher-resolution image using the test-image adjustments and then displays the Feature Selection window. In the Feature Selection window, pickable objects show in yellow and unpickable object show in red.
  • Page 133 Chapter 10: Blue-White Regional Picking Processes To change the selection of the system-chosen pickable objects that display in the image map, click the +/- user selection button to override the system-chosen and unchosen objects, and then click the objects in the image map that you want to change. When clicked as an override, the yellow-marked pickable objects change to blue and become unpickable.
  • Page 134 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide To undo all selections, click the Remove User Selections icon to display the Remove User Selections dialog. Click Yes. To select the colonies for picking: 1. From the list in the upper-right area, select the barcode or identifier of the receptacle to view.
  • Page 135 Chapter 10: Blue-White Regional Picking Processes 3. Optionally, in the Limit Colonies field, enter the maximum number of colonies to pick from each receptacle. Note: If a limit was previously set for the maximum number of colonies in the Source window, the Limit Colonies option is not available in the Feature Selection window.
  • Page 136 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Viewing the Regional Picking Progress While the regional picking routine is running, the Regional Picking Progress window displays a summary of the routine. Start Time shows the time that the picking of the colonies began.
  • Page 137 Chapter 10: Blue-White Regional Picking Processes Viewing the Regional Picking Summary After all regional picking routines are complete, the Regional Picking Summary window displays, showing the number of source colonies picked, the number of destination plates used, and missing source receptacles. To save this information in .csv format, click Export.
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  • Page 139: Chapter 11: Control Plate Creation Processes

    Chapter 11: Control Plate Creation Processes The QPix 420 Colony Picking System can pick colonies from receptacles using either standard picking or regional picking. You can set up control wells for the destination plates before you run a picking process.

  • Page 140: Creating And Editing Control Plate Creation Processes

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Creating and Editing Control Plate Creation Processes If this is the first control plate creation process, you must edit or create a Sanitise profile to use with the control plate creation process. See...
  • Page 141 Chapter 11: Control Plate Creation Processes Adding and Removing Control Plate Creation Routines The Select Routine list contains the routines that are in the database. Only routines that match the type of routine that you are creating are included in the list. For example, a white light and fluorescent imaging routine is not included in the Select Routine list if you are creating a White Light only routine.

  • Page 142: Selecting Barcode Options

    1. In the Destination Options window, from the Select Destination Microplate list, select the plate type to be inoculated with the control colonies. If the plate type that you need is not listed, contact Molecular Devices to add a new plate type to the list. See Obtaining Support on page 209.

  • Page 143: Selecting The Head And Sanitizing Options

    Chapter 11: Control Plate Creation Processes Selecting the Head and Sanitizing Options To select the head and sanitize options: 1. In the Head and Sanitise window, from the Picking Head list, select the head to use for the control plate creation routine. 2.

  • Page 144: Defining The Control Wells

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Defining the Control Wells To define the control wells: 1. In the Control Plate window, click a source receptacle on the left. 2. In the destination plate on the right, click the well or wells where you want to place the control colonies from the receptacle.

  • Page 145: Changing The Picking Head

    Chapter 11: Control Plate Creation Processes Changing the Picking Head The Change Head window reminds you which picking head must be loaded, based on the Setting Summary routine you configure, and provides you an opportunity to change the head. The head is housed in a unique actuator system that permits easy exchange and set-up of the head.

  • Page 146: Running Control Plate Creation Processes

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Running Control Plate Creation Processes After you configure control plate creation routine, you can run the process on the instrument. If you have not configured the control plate creation routine you want to run, you must create a new control plate creation routine or edit an existing routine.
  • Page 147 Chapter 11: Control Plate Creation Processes Adjusting the White Light Test Image In the Test Image window, all detected features are viewed as potential colonies to pick for inoculation of the destination plates. To make sure that only colonies are detected, adjust the test image in this window using the Exposure and Gain settings, the Threshold settings, and the Debris settings.
  • Page 148 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 4. Select the Use Auto Thresholding check box to have the software automatically detect the colonies in the image. To manually detect the colonies, clear this check box and drag the slider until all the desired colonies are detected and the background is not.
  • Page 149 Chapter 11: Control Plate Creation Processes 12. Adjust the Diameter and Axis Ratio to exclude objects that are smaller than the desired colonies. Each detected feature displays within a yellow ring while excluded features do not have a yellow ring. In the Diameter (mm) field, enter a value in millimeters for the minimum diameter of the required colonies.
  • Page 150 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide To select the control colonies for picking: 1. From the list in the upper-right area, select the barcode or identifier of the receptacle to view. 2. Refine the colony Selection criteria. Compactness sets the level of irregularity for picking colonies. The value is a ratio of the perimeter divided by the area of the colony, so that irregular shaped colonies are closer to 0 and colonies that are more of a perfect circle are closer to 1.
  • Page 151 Chapter 11: Control Plate Creation Processes 8. In the Continue or Save New Routine dialog or the Save Changes to Routine dialog, select whether or not to save the routine before continuing with the control plate creation process. If you create a new routine, the Continue or Save New Routine dialog displays. To save the settings for the routine before continuing, click Save Routine, enter a Name and a short Description for the routine, and then click Save.
  • Page 152 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Continuing or Ending the Control Plate Creation Routine After all the colonies are picked from the source receptacles and delivered to the destination plates, the Finished Picking Current Batch dialog displays. If there are no more source receptacles to pick, click Finish Picking and then click OK.

  • Page 153: Chapter 12: Manage Regional Tray Processes

    Chapter 12: Manage Regional Tray Processes The QPix 420 Colony Picking System can pick colonies from receptacles using either standard picking or regional picking. You can set up control wells for the destination plates before running a picking process. The following options are available in the Navigation window under Picking Processes: Picking picks colonies from receptacles using the standard process.
  • Page 154 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide To create a new regional tray: 1. From the Navigation window under Picking Processes, double-click the Manage Regional Trays icon. The new plate definition screen displays along with parameter fields and a guide image.

  • Page 155: Modifying Regional Trays

    Chapter 12: Manage Regional Tray Processes 6. In the Tray Created dialog, click OK to return to the Navigation window. The new tray is now available for use in a Regional Picking process. See Regional Picking Processes on page Modifying Regional Trays Removing a regional tray is also done from the Manage Regional Trays screen.
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  • Page 157: Chapter 13: Replication Processes

    Chapter 13: Replication Processes The QPix 420 Colony Picking System is capable of replicating colonies between plates. The following options are available in the Navigation window under Replication Processes: Library Replication replicates between plates that have the same number of wells.
  • Page 158 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Opening the Replication Window To open the Replication window: 1. From the Navigation window under Replication Processes, double-click the icon for the type of replication process. Library Replication replicates between plates that have the same number of wells.
  • Page 159 Chapter 13: Replication Processes Importing a Routine Before you can import a routine, you must export the routine from the other computer in .xml format and then save the export file on the system computer. To import the .xml file, click Import and then locate and select the file. Click Import to add the routine to the database.
  • Page 160 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Selecting Barcode Options You can scan source and destination plates for barcodes or define unique identifiers for source plates without scanning for barcodes. Using a Barcode Reader Note: You should always use barcodes for accurate data tracking.
  • Page 161 Chapter 13: Replication Processes Defining Unique Identifiers Without Barcodes To define unique identifiers without barcodes: 1. Clear the Use Barcode Reader check box to define unique identifiers for source receptacles without scanning for barcodes. 2. Select the method to define the unique identifiers. To have the software generate random identifiers with the prefix Auto for the source receptacles, select the Generate Random Barcodes check box.
  • Page 162 1. In the Microplates and Sanitise window, from the Source Microplate list, select the source plate type to hold the colonies to be replicated. If the plate type that you need is not listed, contact Molecular Devices to add a new plate type to the list. See Obtaining Support on page 209.
  • Page 163 Chapter 13: Replication Processes Viewing the Settings Summary The Settings Summary window contains a summary of the replication routine settings. Review the summary details to make sure that the settings and options are configured correctly for the replication routine. If you must make changes, click Back until you return to the window where the changes can be made.
  • Page 164 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Arranging the Plate Layout To arrange the plate layout: 1. Open the instrument door. 2. In the Holder Layout Summary window, follow the instructions to correctly arrange the plate holders in the instrument. The layout is defined by the selections you made in earlier steps.

  • Page 165: Running Replication Processes

    Chapter 13: Replication Processes Running Replication Processes After a replication routine has been configured, you can run the process on the instrument. If you have not configured the replication routine to run, you must create a new replication routine or edit an existing routine. Note: Before you running a picking process, it is important that you do the cleaning and set up procedures in Preparing to Run Processes on page...
  • Page 166 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Viewing the Replication Progress While the replication routine runs, the Library Replication Progress, Library Compression Progress, or Library Expansion Progress window displays a summary of the routine. Start Time shows the time the replication process began.

  • Page 167: Chapter 14: Rearraying Processes

    Chapter 14: Rearraying Processes The QPix 420 Colony Picking System is capable of rearraying, or redepositing, colonies between one or more source and destination plates. Use the rearraying process to organize, or cherry-pick, your picked source colonies into destination subsets of a more specific and orderly layout.
  • Page 168 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Selecting Rearraying Routines To select a Rearraying routine: 1. In the Routines window, select to create a new routine or to edit a routine. To create a new routine, click New Routine. To edit a routine, click Run Existing Routine and then select the name of the routine from the Select Routine list.
  • Page 169 1. In the Source window, from the Source Microplate list, select the source plate type to hold the colonies to be rearrayed. If the plate type is not listed, contact Molecular Devices to add a new plate type to the list. See Obtaining Support on page 209.
  • Page 170 1. In the Destination window, from the Select Destination Microplate list, select the plate type to receive the colonies picked from the source plates. If the plate type that you need is not listed, contact Molecular Devices to add a new plate type to the list. See Obtaining Support on page 209.
  • Page 171 Chapter 14: Rearraying Processes Selecting the Head Options To select the head options: 1. In the Head window, from the Select Head list, select the head to use for the rearraying routine 2. Under Inoculation Heights (mm above well bottom), enter the distance in millimeters (mm) above the bottom of the plate where the pins stop in the Source and Destination plate wells.
  • Page 172 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 4. Install the picking head. To remove an installed head, unscrew and remove the thumbscrew and washer on the left that secures the head to the actuator assembly. Then, grab the handle on the right and slide the head out of the actuator.

  • Page 173: Running Rearraying Processes

    Chapter 14: Rearraying Processes Running Rearraying Processes After a rearraying routine has been configured, you can run the process on the instrument. If you have not configured the rearraying routine to run, you must create a new rearraying routine or edit an existing routine. Note: Before you run a rearraying process, it is important that you do the cleaning and set up procedures in Preparing to Run Processes on page...
  • Page 174 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Viewing the Rearraying Progress While the rearraying routine is running, the Rearraying Progress window displays a summary of the routine. Start Time shows the time the rearraying process began. Source Plate No shows the number of the source plate that is being rearrayed.

  • Page 175: Chapter 15: Gridding Processes

    Chapter 15: Gridding Processes The QPix 420 Colony Picking System uses the gridding process to collect liquid samples from one or more source plates and then to deposit the liquid on the surface of one or more filters or on the surface of the agar in one or more QTrays. The gridding head stamps the sample in a defined grid pattern on the filter or agar.
  • Page 176 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Selecting Gridding Routines To select a Gridding routine: 1. In the Routines window, select to create a new routine or to edit a routine. To create a new routine, click New Routine. To edit a routine, click Run Existing Routine and then select the name of the routine from the Select Routine list.
  • Page 177 Chapter 15: Gridding Processes 3. Use the Validation Barcode list to define the barcodes for source receptacles. If the scanned barcode on a source receptacle cannot be found in the list, a message displays. To manually enter valid barcodes, enter each barcode in the field below the list and then click Insert.
  • Page 178 1. In the Microplates and Filters window, from the Select Microplate list, select the plate type for the source. If the plate type that you need is not listed, contact Molecular Devices to add a new plate type to the list. See Obtaining Support on page 209.
  • Page 179 Chapter 15: Gridding Processes Although, the numbers and colors used in the patterns look similar, there is no relation between the numbers and colors used in the Spot Pattern and the Field Pattern. You can stamp from a maximum of 57600 samples to a minimum of 96 samples on your destination surface.
  • Page 180 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Defining the Filter Design Layout To define the filter design layout: 1. In the Filter Design window, from the Reuse list, select a filter design layout. If there are no filter designs in the Reuse list, or if the existing designs do not meet your needs, skip to step 4.
  • Page 181 13. Click Next to select the filter layout. Selecting the Destination Positions For the QPix 420 Colony Picking System, no options are available in the Filter Layout window for QTray usage. Click Next to select the stamping and inking options.
  • Page 182 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Selecting Stamping and Inking Options To select the stamping and inking options: 1. In the Substrate window, in the Stamps Per Spot field, enter a number from 1 to 5 for the number of times to stamp the pins in each spot.
  • Page 183 Chapter 15: Gridding Processes Changing the Picking Head The Change Head window reminds you which picking head to load, based on the Setting Summary routine you configure, and provides you an opportunity to change the head. The head is housed in a unique actuator system that permits easy exchange and set-up of the head.

  • Page 184: Running Gridding Processes

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Running Gridding Processes After a gridding routine has been configured, you can run the process on the instrument. If you have not configured the gridding routine you want to run, you must create a new gridding routine or edit an existing routine.
  • Page 185 Chapter 15: Gridding Processes Viewing the Gridding Progress While the gridding routine is running, the Gridding Progress window displays a summary of the routine. Start Time shows the time the gridding process began. Source Plate No shows the number of the source plate from which the sample is being taken.
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  • Page 187: Chapter 16: Data Viewer Processes

    Chapter 16: Data Viewer Processes The database stores information about the routines run on the QPix 420 Colony Picking System. You can view the data details and manage the database with Data Viewer processes. This chapter describes the procedures that follow:...

  • Page 188: Displaying The Settings For Routines

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Click a process to display a list of all the routines that were run by that process. Click a routine in the list to display a list of the receptacles used and annotations for the routine.

  • Page 189: Working With Tags

    Chapter 16: Data Viewer Processes Working With Tags A tag is a user-created identifier for a routine, receptacle, or location. Use tags to easily identify data of interest. You can create, add, or remove tags in the Data Viewer window. You must create one or more tags before you can add the tags to routines, receptacles, or locations.

  • Page 190: Adding Annotations To Routines, Receptacles, And Locations

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Adding Annotations to Routines, Receptacles, and Locations To add annotations to routines, receptacles, and locations: 1. Find and select the routine, receptacle, or location to which you want to add an annotation. Finding Data in the Database on page 187.

  • Page 191: Exporting Data And Settings

    Chapter 16: Data Viewer Processes Exporting Data and Settings To export data and settings: 1. Find and select the routine from which you want to export the data or the settings. 2. From the list on the left, select the type of export. Click Export Data to export the data from the routine in .csv format.

  • Page 192: Viewing Receptacle Location Maps

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Viewing Receptacle Location Maps To view a map of receptacle locations: 1. Find and select the plate well of which you want to view the location map. 2. From the list on the left, click Show Locations Map.
  • Page 193 Chapter 16: Data Viewer Processes Creating and Editing Sample Trails To create and edit sample trails: 1. Find and select the plate to which to add a sample trail. See Finding Data in the Database on page 187. 2. From the Sample Trail list in the lower-right area of the Data Viewer window, click Add/Remove.
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  • Page 195: Chapter 17: Maintenance

    Chapter 17: Maintenance Perform only the maintenance tasks described in this guide. Contact a Molecular Devices service engineer to inspect and perform a preventive maintenance service on the instrument each year. See Obtaining Support on page 209. Before operating the instrument or performing maintenance operations, make sure you are familiar with the safety information in this guide.

  • Page 196: Cleaning The Instrument

    For efficient decontamination of pathogenic micro-organisms, wipe all non-removable parts within the instrument with a cloth using 70% ethanol. CAUTION! Molecular Devices recommends that you spray ethanol on a cloth for cleaning the instrument. Autoclaving is not compatible with anodized parts. Do not use the ethanol on acrylic parts.
  • Page 197 For further decontamination, soak the head in 100% ethanol. Before reassembly, make sure that all parts are thoroughly dry. CAUTION! Molecular Devices recommends that you spray ethanol on a cloth for cleaning the instrument. Autoclaving is not compatible with anodized parts. Do not use the ethanol on acrylic parts.
  • Page 198 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Sonicating the Pins and Springs You should sonicate the pins weekly. Before you sonicate the pins, remove the pins from the head and sonicate the pins and springs only. Removing the Pins From the Head To remove the pins from the head: 1.
  • Page 199 Chapter 17: Maintenance 4. Remove the picking head retaining plate to expose the pins. 5. Carefully pull the pins and springs up to remove them from their head mounting holes. Note: A gridding head does not contain springs. 6. Separate the springs from the pins, as applicable. 7.

  • Page 200: Testing The Pins

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 5. Verify that the screws are all flush with the retaining plate. 6. Install the head on the actuator. See Changing the Head on page 7. Test the fit in the actuator to be sure the fit is correct.
  • Page 201 Chapter 17: Maintenance 5. Click the type of test that to run. The test starts immediately after you click the button for the test. Fire Pins In Sequence test fires the pins one-by-one in column order, unless you select the X Row First check box to fire the pins in row order. To dampen the pins as they retract, select the Rearray Valve check box.

  • Page 202: Aligning The Camera

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Aligning the Camera To ensure accurate picking, the camera must be calibrated and correctly aligned to get pin-to- spot precision, relating the image pixel coordinates with the instrument x and y coordinates. Do this process whenever the head is returned to the actuator or if the actuator is hit during a maintenance operation, as this can have a negative effect on picking precision.
  • Page 203 Chapter 17: Maintenance 8. Click Goto Pos to enable the position screen controls and move the pin head over the source tray. 9. Under Head Position > Lateral, the red and green arrows move the pin head according to the millimeter distance increments specified in the Move Size field. 10.

  • Page 204: Replacing Fuses

    If these checks fail to remedy the loss of power, replace the fuses. You can obtain replacement fuses from Molecular Devices. Fuses must be replaced with the correct type and rating as specified in Technical Specifications on page 219.

  • Page 205: Draining The Compressor

    Chapter 17: Maintenance To replace a fuse: WARNING! HIGH VOLTAGE  Power off the instrument and disconnect the power cord before you do maintenance procedures that require removal of a panel or cover or disassembly of an interior instrument component. 1. Switch the power switch on the front of the instrument to the off position. 2.

  • Page 206: Moving The Instrument

    QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 3. Slowly open the valve by turning the lever on the Drain Valve to the right about a quarter of the way open until you hear the sound of high pressure blowing air.

  • Page 207: Adding A New User To The Sql Server Database

    Chapter 17: Maintenance Adding a New User to the SQL Server Database If a new user cannot log on to the QPix 420 Colony Picking, add the user to the SQL database. Note: This procedure requires a user with administrator privileges.
  • Page 208 Note: Make sure that you use the Computer Name, not the Full Computer Name if it is different. To edit the path statement in the software: 1. Close all open windows, and then start the QPix 420 Colony Picking. 2. In the Navigation window, click Tools > Configuration. 3. In the Edit Configuration dialog, double-click Verbs.

  • Page 209: Obtaining Support

    Our Support website—www.moleculardevices.com/service-support—describes the support options offered by Molecular Devices, including service plans and professional services. It also has a link to the Molecular Devices Knowledge Base, which contains documentation, technical notes, software upgrades, safety data sheets, and other resources.
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  • Page 211: Chapter 18: Troubleshooting

    Chapter 18: Troubleshooting This section describes some common problems that can occur and possible solutions. Generally, crash recovery involves some form of the following procedure: 1. An error is identified in the software or the instrument stops. 2. If the error condition is caused by a receptacle or other item, then remove the item from the instrument.
  • Page 212 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Poor picking results Run the camera alignment process. See Aligning the Camera on page 202. Run the Pin Fire Test to make sure the pins are firing correctly. See Testing the Pins on page 200.

  • Page 213: Troubleshooting Barcodes

    If you use barcodes and the instrument does not detect them correctly, try the following: Rotate the plate 180 degrees. The instrument scans from either the front or the back, but only one sensor is active. Contact Molecular Devices Technical Support if you need to change the scan direction on your instrument.
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  • Page 215: Appendix A: Replacement Parts And Optional Extras

    QPix™ Chroma Colorimetric Colony Selection Software License. Blue/White Colony Selection Software License for QPix 420 system Colony Picking Systems SL9400-A07 Zone of Inhibition Detection Software License for QPix 420 system Colony Picking Systems. SL9400-A08 QPix™ 420 Software Version 2.0 or Newer Upgrade X1101 QPix Chroma Filter, thin film optical filter for Blue/White colony selection, qty 1...
  • Page 216 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide QPix 420 system Colony Picking System Replacement Parts and Optional Extras (continued) Part Number Description Gridding Heads X4225 Gridding head for bacteria and phage, 96-pin for 96-well and 384-well plates, tip diameter 0.4 mm X4226 Gridding head for DNA macroarrays, 96-pin for 96-well and 384-well plates, tip diameter 0.25 mm...
  • Page 217 Appendix A: Replacement Parts and Optional Extras QPix 420 system Colony Picking System Replacement Parts and Optional Extras (continued) Part Number Description X4243 Gridding pins for yeast and streptomyces, tip diameter 1 mm Re-Arraying Pins X4311 Re-arraying pin, high-capacity, standard transfer (E coli/high viability samples), tip diameter 0.55 mm X4315 Re-arraying pin, high-capacity, standard transfer (E coli/high viability samples), tip...
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  • Page 219: Appendix B: Technical Specifications

    Appendix B: Technical Specifications The following tables list the technical specifications of the QPix 420 Colony Picking System. If you are using the optional air compressor, see the documentation that comes with the compressor for more details. Technical Specifications Item...
  • Page 220 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide Technical Specifications (continued) Item Description Clean, oil-free with sub-micron filtration Minimum operating pressure 6 bar (~90psi) Minimum operating volume 80 L/min Optional air compressor Compressor unit DynAir DA7001CS, Clean, oil-free compressor with sub-micron...

  • Page 221: Appendix C: System Diagrams And Dimensions

    Appendix C: System Diagrams and Dimensions In the following drawings, the dimensions are show in centimeters and inches. Front View of the QPix 420 Colony Picking System with Dimensions Item Description 1  Height of instrument: 75 cm (30 in.)  2  Width of instrument: 152 cm (60 in.) ...
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  • Page 223: Appendix D: Electromagnetic Compatibility

    Appendix D: Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulatory for Canada (ICES/NMB-001:2020) This ISM device complies with Canadian ICES-001. Cet appareil ISM est confomre à la norme NMB-001 du Canada. ISM Equipment Classification (Group 1, Class A) This equipment is designated as scientific equipment for laboratory use that intentionally generate and/or use conductively coupled radio-frequency energy for internal functioning, and are suitable for use in all establishments, other than domestic and those directly connected to a low voltage power supply network which supply buildings used for domestic purposes.
  • Page 224 QPix 420 Colony Picking System User Guide 5031496 G...
  • Page 225 The trademarks used herein are the property of Molecular Devices, LLC or their respective owners. ©2022 Molecular Devices, LLC. Specifications subject to change without notice. Patents: www.moleculardevices.com/patents All rights reserved. FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY. NOT FOR USE IN DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES...

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