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Biotek ELx50 Operator's Manual

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Microplate Strip Washer
ELx50
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Operator's Manual
All Models

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  • Page 1 Microplate Strip Washer ELx50 ™ Operator’s Manual All Models...
  • Page 3 ELx50™ Microplate Strip Washer Operator’s Manual August 2008 © 2008 Part Number 4071000 Revision M ® BioTek Instruments, Inc.
  • Page 4 BioTek Instruments, Inc. Changes made to the information in this document will be incorporated in new editions of the publication. No responsibility is assumed by BioTek for the use or reliability of software or equipment that is not supplied by BioTek or its affiliated dealers.

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Electromagnetic Interference and Susceptibility ......xvii User Safety................xvii Safety Symbols ..............xviii Chapter 1: Introduction ..............1 Introducing the ELx50 Microplate Strip Washer ....... 2 ELx50 Washer Variations ............. 3 Manifold Variations ..............3 Carrier Variations ..............5 Software Variations ..............5 Hardware Features..............
  • Page 6 Serial Port for Communication With Other Devices ....36 Verifying Performance ............... 37 Repackaging and Shipping ............38 Before Repackaging the Instrument ........38 Repackaging the ELx50 and Its Accessories ......38 Chapter 3: Operation ..............51 ELx50 Front Panel ..............52 Keypad Description ..............53 Entering Program Names ............
  • Page 7 Configuration Information (CHKSUM) ......... 89 Setup ................. 90 Manifold (MANIFLD) ............90 SENSOR................. 90 AutoPrime ................91 ELx50™ Microplate Strip Washer Menu Maps ........ 92 Chapter 4: Maintenance and Performance Verification (IQ/OQ/PQ) ................97 Overview ................. 98 Recommended Maintenance Schedule.......... 99 Recommended Performance Verification Schedule ......100...
  • Page 8 Microplate Carrier ............111 Aspiration Carrier (ELx50/8FMW only) .......112 Cleaning the Check Valves............114 Long-Term Storage Maintenance..........115 LONG_SHUTDOWN ..............115 Disinfect the Aspiration Carrier (ELx50/8FMW) ......116 Storing the ELx50™ ..............116 Decontamination ..............117 Purpose ................117 Tools and Supplies ..............118 Procedure for External Components ........119 Procedure for Tubing and Manifold.........119...
  • Page 9 Materials ...............130 Evacuation Efficiency Test Procedure .........131 Dispense Precision Test Procedure ........132 Liquid Tests Worksheet (16-Channel Manifold) ......133 Liquid Test for the Aspiration Carrier (ELx50/8FMW) .....134 Evacuation Efficiency Test ............134 Materials ...............134 Evacuation Efficiency Test Procedure .........134 Liquid Test Worksheet (Aspiration Carrier) ......136 Maintenance/Performance and Operational Logs......137...

  • Page 10: Contact Information

    802-655-4740 (outside the U.S.) Fax: 802-654-0638 E-Mail: tac@biotek.com European Coordination Center/Authorized European Representative ® BioTek Instruments GmbH Kocherwaldstrasse 34 D-74177 Bad Friedrichshall Germany Internet: www.biotek.de Phone: +49 (0) 7136 9680 Fax: +49 (0) 7136 968 111 E-Mail: info@biotek.de BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 11: Document Conventions

    About This Manual The intent of this Operator’s Manual is to instruct the new user how to set up and operate BioTek’s ELx50™. To help you read and understand this manual, certain document conventions have been used. Major topic headings start a new page (such as...

  • Page 12: Revision History

    Added instructions and information in all chapters of the manual for the aspiration carrier (ELx50™/8FMW model). Removed hyphen from “Bio-Tek” (“BioTek”) and changed “ELx50 Automated Strip Washer” to “ELx50 Microplate Strip Washer.” Replaced the previous cover with new cover design from Marketing. Updated regulatory/safety information and removed Warranty and Registration Card sections in the Preface.
  • Page 13 0.020” diameter hole in the black vent plug. General. Added information on the Liquid Level Alert™ option, which is 10/07 available for all ELx50 models. Added information on the new ‘First Strip’ run-time parameter. Additional cleanup and clarifications as described below.
  • Page 14 For the Evacuation Efficiency liquid test procedures, added text to state that the user’s own wash program or one of the ELx50’s onboard Wash programs can be used. In the Liquid Test Worksheets, for the Mean Residual Weight (Evacuation Efficiency) and Mean Absorbance (Dispense Precision) calculations, changed references to ‘96’...

  • Page 15: Intended Use Statement

    Failure to conduct Quality Control checks could result in erroneous test data. Repackaging and Shipping If you need to ship the instrument to BioTek for service or repair, contact BioTek for a Return Materials Authorization (RMA) number, and be sure to use the original packing. Other forms of commercially available packing are not recommended and can void the warranty.

  • Page 16: Hazards And Precautions

    Warning! Electrical Grounding. Never use a two-prong plug adapter to connect primary power to the ELx50 power supply. Use of a two-prong adapter disconnects the utility ground, creating a severe shock hazard. Always connect the power cord directly to a three-prong receptacle with a functional ground.
  • Page 17 70% ethyl, isopropyl, or methyl alcohol, 40% formaldehyde, and 20% sodium hydroxide. Never use acetic acid, DMSO, or organic solvents. Other chemicals may cause severe damage to the instrument. Contact BioTek prior to using any other chemicals. Refer to...
  • Page 18 (WEEE).” Directive 98/79/EC: In Vitro Diagnostics (some models) • Product registration with competent authorities • Traceability to the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST): Dispense precision and average residual volume is traceable to NIST. BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 19: Electromagnetic Interference And Susceptibility

    Underwriters Laboratories UL 61010-1:2004 “Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and Laboratory Use, Part 1: General Requirements.” International • EN 61010-1 “Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and Laboratory Use, Part 1: General Requirements.” ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 20: Safety Symbols

    Borne de terre de protection Schutzleiteranschluss Borne de tierra de protección Terra di protezione On (Supply) Marche (alimentation) Ein (Verbindung mit dem Netz) Conectado Chiuso Off (Supply) Arrêt (alimentation) Aus (Trennung vom Netz) Desconectado Aperto (sconnessione dalla rete di alimentazione) BioTek Instruments, Inc.
  • Page 21 Separate collection for electrical and electronic equipment Les équipements électriques et électroniques font l’objet d’une collecte sélective Getrennte Sammlung von Elektro- und Elektronikgeräten Recogida selectiva de aparatos eléctricos y electrónicos Raccolta separata delle apparecchiature elettriche ed elettroniche ELx50 Operator's Manual...
  • Page 22 | Preface BioTek Instruments, Inc.
  • Page 23 Chapter 1 Introduction This chapter introduces the ELx50™ Microplate Strip Washer, and describes its hardware and software features and technical specifications. Instructions on how to contact BioTek for Product Support & Service are included on page 12. Introducing the ELx50 Microplate Strip Washer ......2 ELx50 Washer Variations ............

  • Page 24: Chapter 1: Introduction

    The intuitive menu-driven software allows you to create and store up to 75 washer programs. When you are ready to run a program, simply select the program name and follow the screen prompts. The ELx50 will then process the plate according to the program parameters.

  • Page 25: Elx50 Washer Variations

    Each ELx50 washer is equipped with a manifold containing 8, 12, or 16 sets of aspirate and dispense tubes, or “channels.” The...

  • Page 26: Patented Dual-Manifold Design

    Dispense manifold Tubes are positioned for overfill washing Aspirate manifold Tubes are positioned Figure 1: Patented Design of the 16-Channel Manifold BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 27: Carrier Variations

    The aspirate-only program parameters ASPIRATE TYPE and BOT ASPIRATE TIME only appear if the washer model is the ELx50/8FMW, and the manifold is configured as either 8- or 8s-channel. Software Variations The ELx50™ washer is operated by onboard software, controllable through the washer’s keypad.
  • Page 28 ELx50/8FMW washer’s aspiration carrier. basecode is not compatible with the 16-channel manifold, the Liquid 4070201 Level Alert option, or the ELx50/8FMW washer’s bottom aspiration carrier. This basecode does not provide the ability to create Soak or Link programs. BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 29: Hardware Features

    • ELx50/8FMW model: one vent port (0.047” in diameter) on the aspiration carrier and two selectable vent plugs (with 0.032” and 0.020” diameter holes) for varying the amount of vacuum used with the aspiration carrier.

  • Page 30: Accessories Included

    • Optional in-line vacuum filter (PN 48146) • Optional vacuum pump muffler (PN 4073009) for ELx50 washers that are equipped with the new vacuum pump (washers manufactured after January 2008) • Aspirate tube stylus (PN 4072042) and Dispense tube stylus (PN 4072043) •...

  • Page 31: Optional Accessories

    1.2 μm filter pore size (Millipore PN’s MSBVN1B50 or MSBVN1210) • RS-232 serial cable (PN 75053) • In-line vacuum filter replacement (PN 48146) • BioTek blue test dye solution (PN 7773001) and wetting agent solution (PN 7773002) for liquid testing • Installation-Operational-Performance Qualification (IQ-OQ-PQ) package (PN 4070530) •...

  • Page 32: Specifications

    16 in. D x 14 in. W x 6.5 in. H (40.6 cm x 35.6 cm x 16.5 cm) • Weight: ≤ 20 lbs. (8.9 kg) all models except ELx50/8FMW; ≥ 22 lbs. (9 kg) ELx50/8FMW model Environmental • Operating conditions: 15°...

  • Page 33: Performance Specifications

    The aspirate height adjustment should be optimized for the plate prior to testing. Residual Volume specifications do not apply to the ELx50™/8FMW washer when using the aspiration carrier for filter-bottom plates. Residual Volume specifications are only applicable when using the microplate carrier for solid-bottom plates.

  • Page 34: Product Support & Service

    Appendix A, Error Codes Returning Instruments for Service/Repair If you need to return an instrument to BioTek for service or repair, please contact the TAC for a Return Materials Authorization (RMA) number before shipping the instrument. Repackage the instrument properly (see...

  • Page 35: Chapter 2: Installation

    Chapter 2 Installation This chapter includes instructions for unpacking and setting up the ELx50™ Microplate Strip Washer, installing the washer's components, and repackaging the instrument for shipment. Unpacking and Inspecting the Instrument ........14 Setting Up the ELx50 ...............20 Operating Environment ............20 Installing the Carrier and Manifold .........20...

  • Page 36: Unpacking And Inspecting The Instrument

    BioTek and ask for part number 4073001 The ELx50™ washer and its accessories are securely packaged inside custom-designed shipping materials. This packaging should protect the instrument from damage during shipping. Inspect the shipping box, packaging, instrument, and accessories for signs of damage.
  • Page 37 Carefully open the shipping tray for the 8-, 8s-, or 12-channel manifold, microplate carrier, power supply and power cord, tubing, in-line vacuum filter, optional vacuum pump muffler, manual, and Declaration of Conformity or other documents. Remove the accessories listed above and set aside the shipping materials. ELx50 Operator's Manual...
  • Page 38 | Chapter 2: Installation Figure 3: Unpacking the 8-, 8s-, or 12-Channel Manifold, Microplate Carrier, Power Supply, Tubing, In-Line Vacuum Filter, and Optional Vacuum Pump Muffler BioTek Instruments, Inc.
  • Page 39 Remove and set aside the foam corner blocks. Carefully open the inner shipping container, using a blunt tool. Figure 4: Unpacking the Inner Shipping Container and Foam Corner Blocks ELx50 Operator's Manual...
  • Page 40 | Chapter 2: Installation Unpacking the Aspiration Carrier (ELx50/8FMW models only) Remove the aspiration carrier from its storage compartment in the inner shipping container. Remove and set aside any bubble wrap, plastic bag, or other shipping materials. Figure 5: Unpacking the Aspiration Carrier (ELx50™/8FMW)
  • Page 41 Slide the foam shipping block out from underneath the manifold mounting bracket. Store the inner shipping container and all shipping materials (including those noted on the previous pages) in the outer shipping container. Figure 6: Unpacking the ELx50 Washer ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 42: Setting Up The Elx50

    Specifications Chapter 1 Introduction specifications. Installing the Carrier and Manifold All ELx50 washers have a microplate carrier that is specific to their manifold type. , for information on the ELx50 Washer Variations Chapter 1 Introduction various manifold and carrier types.

  • Page 43: 8S-, Or 12-Channel Manifold

    Setting Up the ELx50 8-, 8s-, or 12-Channel Manifold Orient the manifold so that the aspirate/dispense tubes are pointed down, and the fittings for the supply and waste tubing are pointed toward the back of the washer. Slide the manifold gently down over the two support pins on the manifold mounting bracket that are closest to the front of the washer.

  • Page 44: 16-Channel Manifold

    Slide the manifold gently down over the three support pins on the manifold mounting bracket. Insert the thumbscrews (3). Do not overtighten. Figure 8: Installing the Microplate Carrier and 16-Channel Manifold BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 45: Aspiration Carrier (Elx50/8Fmw)

    Snap the two carrier rail guides onto the carrier transport rail. The pin should sit in the slot. Follow the instructions on the next page for setting the vacuum levels using the vent port and vent plugs. Figure 9: Installing the Aspiration Carrier (ELx50/8FMW model) ELx50 Operator's Manual...
  • Page 46 The approximate vacuum levels listed above (-64, -116, and -240 mmHg) are “typical” only, and may vary, depending upon factors such as relative humidity, barometric pressure, and mechanical tolerances. Figure 10: Close-Up View of Aspiration Carrier Vent Port and Vent Plugs BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 47: Connecting The Tubes And Bottles

    Identify the different tubes and bottles that came with your washer. For optimal operation of the ELx50™ washer, all tubing, cables, and fittings for the waste and supply systems must be properly connected. The figures on the following pages illustrate the rear panel of the instrument and the locations of the ports and connections for the waste and supply systems.
  • Page 48 | Chapter 2: Installation Figure 11a: Washer Rear Panel (all models except ELx50™/8FMW) Figure 11b: Attaching the Vacuum Pump Muffler (all models except ELx50/8FMW) BioTek Instruments, Inc.
  • Page 49 Setting Up the ELx50 Figure 12a: Washer Rear Panel (ELx50™/8FMW model) Figure 12b: Attaching the Vacuum Pump Muffler (ELx50/8FMW model) ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 50: Waste System

    Attach the free end of the tubing from the waste bottle to the vacuum port for waste fluid on the back of the washer. Finger-tighten only! ELx50/8FMW model (with aspiration carrier installed): Follow steps 1 through 7 below for connecting the waste tubing and bottle. Refer to...
  • Page 51 Setting Up the ELx50 Figure 13: Waste Tubing Connections (all models except the ELx50™/8FMW) Note: The washer's top shroud is removed from this illustration for clarity only. While it is acceptable to remove the mist shield, do not attempt to remove the shroud protecting the washer's components.
  • Page 52 | Chapter 2: Installation Figure 14: Waste Tubing Connections (ELx50™/8FMW model with Aspiration Carrier installed) BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 53: Supply System

    Attach the three tubes from supply bottles A, B, and C to valve ports A, B, and C on the back of the washer. Note: The ELx50/8FMW model does not support the multiple valve tubing option. ELx50 Operator's Manual...
  • Page 54 Figure 15b: Supply Tubing Connections (view of connections on rear panel) Note: The washer's top shroud is removed from this illustration for clarity only. While it is acceptable to remove the mist shield, do not attempt to remove the shroud protecting the washer's components. BioTek Instruments, Inc.
  • Page 55 Setting Up the ELx50 Figure 16: Washer with Multiple Valve Tubing Connections (“V” versions of the ELx50™) ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 56: Liquid Level Alert Option

    (p. 37), enable Liquid Level Alert by selecting UTIL > SETUP > SENSOR > LIQUID LEVEL ALERT? > YES. Shorting plugs Liquid Alert port Supply (A) Waste Figure 17: Liquid Level Alert select box (top), and cable connections BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 57: Final Check

    Setting Up the ELx50 Final Check Verify that the tubing was not crimped during installation. Make sure that the fluid supply and the waste output tubes are attached to the appropriate manifold ports. If the mounted manifold tilts forward or backward, make sure that the tubing to the manifold is not being pulled tight or off to the side.

  • Page 58: Connecting The Power Supply And Cord

    Insert the power cord into the power supply and into an appropriate wall outlet. Serial Port for Communication With Other Devices The ELx50 has a 25-pin serial (RS-232) port located on the rear panel of the instrument (see ). The serial port allows the washer to receive data from a...

  • Page 59: Verifying Performance

    Verifying Performance Verifying Performance Before using the ELx50™ washer for the first time, verify that it is operating properly by turning the washer on. The washer will automatically perform a system Self-Test to check the manifold, microplate carrier, vacuum pump and syringe pump positioning and operation.

  • Page 60: Repackaging And Shipping

    | Chapter 2: Installation Repackaging and Shipping If you need to ship the ELx50™ Washer to BioTek for service or repair, be sure to use the original packing. Other forms of commercially available packing are not recommended and can void the warranty.

  • Page 61: Repackaging The Elx50 And Its Accessories

    Repackaging and Shipping Repackaging the ELx50 and Its Accessories Refer to through below and on the following pages when Figures 19 repackaging the ELx50. Removing the Mist Shield Turn the washer off and disconnect the power supply cord and all waste and supply tubing (and, if applicable, the optional valve tubing) from the washer.
  • Page 62 Pack the manifold as instructed on the following two pages. Remove the microplate carrier and place it into a plastic ziplock bag. Figure 20: Removing the Manifold and Microplate Carrier BioTek Instruments, Inc.
  • Page 63 Ensure that the two vent plugs are inserted in the “A” and “B” storage slots in the front panel of the carrier, for shipping. Place the carrier into a plastic ziplock bag. Figure 21: Removing the Aspiration Carrier (ELx50/8FMW) ELx50 Operator's Manual...
  • Page 64 Place the manifold into the foam shipping container as shown. Wrap a large rubber band around the shipping block. Place the shipping block into a plastic ziplock bag. Figure 22: Packing the 8-, 8s-, or 12-Channel Manifold BioTek Instruments, Inc.
  • Page 65 Place the three thumbscrews into a small ziplock bag. Insert the bag into the hole in the bottom of the foam shipping container for the 16-channel manifold. Place the manifold into a plastic bag. Insert the bag into the container. Figure 23: Packing the 16-Channel Manifold in Its Container ELx50 Operator's Manual...
  • Page 66 Rotating the Cam Ensure that the mist shield, manifold, and carrier have been removed as instructed on the previous pages. Rotate the cam until it is in the downward position, as shown below. Figure 24: Rotating the Cam BioTek Instruments, Inc.
  • Page 67 Place insert #1 into the shipping container, as shown below. Slide the washer all the way back to insert #1. Place insert #2 into the front of the shipping container, as shown below. Figure 25: Placing the Washer into the Inner Shipping Container ELx50 Operator's Manual...
  • Page 68 Placing the Aspiration Carrier into the Inner Shipping Container ELx50™/8FMW model only: Place the aspiration carrier in its compartment as shown. Close the inner shipping container. Figure 26: Placing the Aspiration Carrier (ELx50/8FMW) into the Inner Shipping Container BioTek Instruments, Inc.
  • Page 69 Repackaging and Shipping Packing the Inner Shipping Container Place the eight foam corner blocks onto the inner container as shown. Place the container into the outer shipping container. Figure 27: Packing the Inner Shipping Container ELx50 Operator's Manual...
  • Page 70 Slide the 16-channel manifold underneath the mist shield as shown. Insert the mist shield and manifold into the top packing container. Place the container on top of the inner shipping box. Figure 28: Packing the 16-Channel Manifold and Mist Shield BioTek Instruments, Inc.
  • Page 71 Close the top of the outer shipping box and tape it shut. Write “RMA” and the RMA number in large, clear letters on the outside of the shipping container and ship the instrument to the BioTek address provided in the section of Product Support &...
  • Page 72 | Chapter 2: Installation BioTek Instruments, Inc.
  • Page 73 Chapter 3 Operation This chapter includes instructions for operating the ELx50™ Microplate Strip Washer and its software. ELx50 Front Panel ..............52 Keypad Description ..............53 Entering Program Names ............54 System Startup ...............54 Main Menu ................55 General Usage Guidelines ............56 Wash ..................60 Prime ..................72...

  • Page 74: Chapter 3: Operation

    | Chapter 3: Operation ELx50 Front Panel The front panel on the ELx50™ Microplate Strip Washer features a 25-key keypad and a 2 x 24-character LCD display as shown in below. Figure 30 LCD display BIO-TEK ELx50 DEFINE MAINT UTIL...

  • Page 75: Keypad Description

    Press the ► (forward) arrow to move the cursor to the right in the LCD ► display. START To start running a washer program, press the START key. STOP To stop running (abort) a washer program, press the STOP key. ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 76: Entering Program Names

    WASH 96 System Startup To turn on the ELx50™, press the on/off switch on the right side of the base. The ELx50 will perform a self-test, displaying the screens shown below until initialization is complete. During this time, all keys are inactive.

  • Page 77: Main Menu

    Main Menu Main Menu Following successful power-up of the ELx50™, the Main Menu appears: BIO-TEK ELx50 DEFINE MAINT UTIL The following options are available through the Main Menu. (See the Washer Menu on pages 92 through 95for a complete listing of menu options.)

  • Page 78: General Usage Guidelines

    Check the external tubing connections for kinks and clogs. • For washers with the aspiration carrier (ELx50/8FMW): when setting up the tubing from the aspiration carrier to the port on the back of the washer, ensure that there is sufficient room for the tubing.
  • Page 79 The microplate carrier has a microplate spring that holds the microplate against the front edge of the carrier. The aspiration carrier in the ELx50™/8FMW model has a plate clamp for securing the microplate in place. (See...

  • Page 80: Maintenance

    Ensure that the correct plate type (96 or 384) is specified when selecting the Define Wash program options. • When editing, copying, deleting, running, or linking programs, the list of programs displayed is dependent on the manifold configurations. For example: BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 81: Liquid Level Alert Option

    Bottom aspiration time: When you are using the aspiration carrier in the ELx50/8FMW washer, ensure that you do not define a bottom aspiration time (BOT ASPIRATE TIME) that is too long for your assay type. Long aspiration times may cause beads to stick to the bottom of the wells in the filter-bottom plates.

  • Page 82: Wash

    Specify the number of microwell strips to be washed (the actual selectable range is based on the First Strip value): 1 to 12 for the 8- or 8s-channel manifold 1 to 8 for the 12-channel manifold 1 to 24 for the 16-channel manifold BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 83: Define Wash Program

    Crosswise Height, Crosswise Horizontal Position, Final Aspiration, Final Aspirate Delay. The fields are described in the Aspiration table, page 67. Press Main Menu to After all wash components have been programmed, press Main Menu then select YES to save the program. ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 84: Define Wash Method Program Options

    Prime After Soak? Choose YES to prime the dispense tubes after a soak cycle. Prime Volume Specify the volume, in milliliters, of the solution used to prime the dispense tubes. The volume range is from 1 to 200 ml. BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 85: Wash Method Defaults And Ranges

    3 = 17 4 = 18 5 = 19 Prime After Soak? Yes/No Prime Volume 1-200 milliliters Prime Flow Rate 1-9 (1-7 for Selection = Flow rate in the 12-channel ul/well/second manifold) 8/8s ----- 9 = 1000 ----- ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 86: Define Wash Dispense (Disp) Program Options

    Note: During program creation, it is possible to enter a Dispense Volume/Flow Rate combination that is invalid for the current washer manifold type. The ELx50™ basecode performs validation of these parameters at program run-time only—if the configuration is found to be invalid, the 0F00 error will display.
  • Page 87 7 for the 12-channel manifold), where 1 = Slowest, 9 = Fastest. The washer display shows the corresponding µl/well/sec value for each option. Press Enter to Define another wash component. continue Press Main Menu to Select YES to save the program. ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 88: Wash Dispense Defaults And Ranges

    50-3000 50-3000 25-3000 50-3000 50-3000 50-3000 25-3000 50-3000 50-3000 50-3000 25-3000 50-3000 50-3000 56-3000 28-3000 50-3000 60-3000 60-3000 30-3000 50-3000 70-1100 90-3000 45-3000 55-3000 70-1100 100-3000 50-3000 100-1100 not valid 106-3000 53-3000 110-1100 not valid 110-3000 55-3000 BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 89: Define Wash Aspiration (Aspir) Program Options

    Wash Define Wash ASPIRATION (ASPIR) Program Options Note: The shaded options are not available for Aspirate-only programs. Note: Bottom aspiration using the aspiration carrier (ELx50™/8FMW washer) is not available for Wash programs. Options Actions Aspirate Height Aspirate Height represents the height between the bottom of the aspirate tubes and the carrier surface on which the plate rests when aspirating the microwells.
  • Page 90 The Final Aspir Delay range is 0 to 5000 milliseconds. Press Enter to Define another wash component. continue Press Main Menu to Select YES to save the program. Note: The shaded options are not available for Aspirate-only programs. BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 91: Wash Aspirate Defaults And Ranges

    -24 to 88 (8s-channel manifold) 2 = 05.2 -15 to 24 (16-channel manifold, 96-well plates) 3 = 05.8 -10 to 22 (16-channel manifold, 384-well plates) 4 = 06.7 5 = 08.0 6 = 10.7 7 = 16.0 ELx50 Operator's Manual...
  • Page 92 Carrier Aspirate height Figure 31: Dispense and Aspirate Heights for the 8-, 8s-, and 12-Channel Manifolds (See Figure 1 for an illustration of the 16-channel manifold) Note: The dispense tubes are shorter than the aspirate tubes. BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 93: Edit Wash Program

    The options are described below. DEFINE DELETE WASH SELECT WASH PROGRAM OK TO DELETE? Delete Wash Program Options Options Actions Select Wash Program Select the Wash program you wish to delete. OK to Delete? Select YES to delete the program. ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 94: Prime

    Soak Duration represents the time to allow the dispense and aspirate tubes to be soaked in wash buffer, rinse, or disinfectant. The range is from 1 minute to 18 hours. OK to Save Program? Select YES to save the program. BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 95: Prime Program Defaults And Ranges

    Prime Dispense Volume 1-200 milliliters µl/well/sec Prime Flow Rate 1-9 (1-7 for 12-channel)* Soak After Prime Yes/No minutes to hours Soak Duration 1 minute 1 minute to 18 hours *Prime Flow Rate (µl/well/sec): 8/8s ----- 9 = 1000 ----- ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 96: Run Prime Program

    To change a Prime program, follow the menu path shown here. Some of these items are options and some are prompts. DEFINE EDIT PRIME SELECT PRIME PROGRAM Edit the Program Parameters MAIN MENU KEY OK TO SAVE PROGRAM? BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 97: Copy Prime Program

    The options are described below. DEFINE DELETE PRIME SELECT PRIME PROGRAM OK TO DELETE? Delete Prime Program Options Options Actions Select Prime Program Select the Prime program you wish to delete. OK to Delete? Select YES to delete the program. ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 98: Dispense

    FIRST STRIP NUMBER OF STRIPS PLACE PLATE IN CARRIER AND PRESS <START> KEY DISPENSE PROGRAM RUNNING. PRESS <STOP> KEY TO QUIT DISP PROGRAM COMPLETE. PRESS <ENTER> KEY appears only on the “V” version washers. * SELECT REAGENT BOTTLE BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 99: Edit Dispense Program

    Copy Dispense Program To copy a Dispense program, follow the menu path shown here. Some of these items are options and some are prompts. The options are described below. DEFINE COPY DISPENSE SELECT DISP PROGRAM NAME OK TO COPY? ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 100: Delete Dispense Program

    The options are described below. DEFINE DELETE DISP SELECT DISP PROGRAM OK TO DELETE? Delete Dispense Program Options Options Actions Select Dispense Select the Dispense program you wish to delete. Program OK to Delete? Select YES to delete the program. BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 101: Aspiration

    ** ASPIRATE TYPE BOT ASPIRATE TIME ELx50/8FMW and the manifold is configured as either 8- or 8s-channel. Define Aspiration Program Options on page 67 for a complete Define Wash ASPIRATION Program Options listing of Aspiration Program Options that are available for Wash programs and Aspirate-only programs.

  • Page 102: Define Aspirate-Only Program Options

    Aspirate-only program. This is only available for ELx50/8FMW models, and the manifold must be either 8- or 8s-channel. The two options are TOP for top aspiration using the manifold with the microplate carrier, and BOT for bottom aspiration using the aspiration carrier.

  • Page 103: Edit Aspiration Program

    To copy an Aspiration program, follow the menu path shown here. Some of these items are options and some are prompts. The options are described below. DEFINE COPY MORE ASPIR SELECT ASPIR PROGRAM NAME OK TO COPY? ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 104: Delete Aspiration Program

    DEFINE DELETE MORE ASPIR SELECT ASPIR PROGRAM OK TO DELETE? Delete Aspiration Program Options Options Actions Select Aspiration Select the Aspiration program you wish to delete. Program OK to Delete? Select YES to delete the program. BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 105: Soak

    The carrier returns to its home position so that the tubes are above the carrier trough. Shake Duration Shake Duration represents the length of time that the microwells are agitated. The duration range is from 1 to 600 seconds. ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 106: Edit Soak Program

    OK TO COPY? Copy Soak Program Options Options Actions Select Soak Program Select the Soak program you wish to copy. Name Type a unique name for the new Soak program. OK to Copy? Select YES to copy the program. BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 107: Delete Soak Program

    The options are described below. DEFINE DELETE MORE SOAK SELECT SOAK PROGRAM OK TO DELETE? Delete Soak Program Options Options Actions Select Soak Program Select the Soak program you wish to delete. OK to Delete? Select YES to delete the program. ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 108: Linking Programs

    Link program. Programs will run in the order in which they are selected. Note: If the Plate Type option appeared (see above), only programs with the selected Plate Type will be accessible for inclusion in the Link program. BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 109: View Link Program

    Link program, select DEFINE > EDIT > choose the program > press Main Menu > choose YES to save the program. If this does not solve the problem, please contact BioTek TAC. View Link Program A Link program cannot be edited, but its contents can be viewed.

  • Page 110: Delete Link Program

    The options are described below. DEFINE DELETE MORE LINK SELECT LINK PROGRAM OK TO DELETE? Delete Link Program Options Options Actions Select Link Program Select the Link program you wish to delete. OK to Delete? Select YES to delete the program. BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 111: Utility

    Tests The system Self-Test (SLFCHK) and Checksum Test (CHKSUM) are performed automatically whenever the ELx50™ is turned on. The Tests option enables you to manually run both of these tests. Self-Test (SLFCHK) The Self-Test verifies system components, such as vacuum, manifold, and manifold to carrier positioning.

  • Page 112: Setup

    UTIL SETUP MANIFLD SELECT MANIFOLD: 16** * For washers with the aspiration carrier (ELx50/8FMW model), if 12 is selected for the manifold, aspiration using the aspiration carrier is not available. **16 will not be displayed on ELx50/8FMW washers. SENSOR ELx50 washers manufactured after October 2007 support the...

  • Page 113: Autoprime

    Utility AutoPrime The AutoPrime option is important for preventive maintenance of the ELx50™. Frequent priming keeps the washer manifold tubes moist and helps to prevent them from clogging. See Chapter 4, Maintenance and Performance Verification (IQ/OQ/PQ) for more information on the AutoPrime feature.

  • Page 114: Elx50™ Microplate Strip Washer Menu Maps

    | Chapter 3: Operation ELx50™ Microplate Strip Washer Menu Maps Main Menu (DEFINE function path for Create and Edit) DEFINE MAINT UTIL CREATE EDIT COPY DELETE SELECT SELECT PROGRAM TYPE PROGRAM TYPE WASH PRIME DISP ASPIR SOAK LINK SELECT SELECT...
  • Page 115 ELx50™ Microplate Strip Washer Menu Maps Main Menu (DEFINE function path for Copy and Delete) DEFINE MAINT UTIL CREATE EDIT COPY DELETE SELECT PROGRAM TYPE WASH PRIME DISP ASPIR SOAK LINK SELECT SELECT SELECT SELECT SELECT SELECT WASH PROGRAM PRIME PROGRAM...
  • Page 116 * FIRST STRIP and NUMBER OF STRIPS are not displayed for Aspirate programs using the aspiration carrier (ELx50/8FMW model). ** The SELECT BUFFER option only appears for ELx50™ washers equipped with the multiple valves hardware. *** A Soak program cannot be run independently; it must be selected within a Link program.
  • Page 117 MANIFLD SENSOR ENABLE PERFORM DISPLAY SELECT MANIFOLD LIQUID LEVEL ALERT? AUTOPRIME? SYSTEM TEST CHECKSUM 8 12 8s 16* YES / NO YES / NO DISPLAY AUTOPRIME SOFTWARE INTERVAL CONFIGURATION * “16” is not displayed on ELx50/8FMW washers. ELx50 Operator's Manual...
  • Page 118 | Chapter 3: Operation BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 119: Chapter 4: Maintenance And Performance Verification (Iq/Oq/Pq)

    Installation Qualification (IQ).............123 Operational Qualification (OQ) ...........123 Performance Qualification (PQ) ..........124 Self-Test and Checksum Test.............125 Liquid Tests for the 8-, 8s-, and 12-Channel Manifolds ....126 Liquid Tests for the 16-Channel Manifold ........130 Liquid Test for the Aspiration Carrier (ELx50/8FMW) .....134...

  • Page 120: Overview

    The schedules on the following pages recommend maintenance and verification tasks, the frequency with which each task should be performed, the pre-defined onboard program that can be run to perform the task, and where to find more information. BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 121: Recommended Maintenance Schedule

    Daily and periodic routines and minimal guidelines for frequency are listed. Beyond that, it is difficult for BioTek to recommend a fixed frequency for each task to be performed. The risk and performance factors of your assays should determine the frequency with which to conduct these tasks.

  • Page 122: Recommended Performance Verification Schedule

    16-Channel Manifold: Evacuation Efficiency Test, p. 131 Dispense Precision Test, p. 132 Aspiration Carrier (ELx50/8FMW): Evacuation Efficiency Test, p. 134 It is important to note that the risk and performance factors associated with your assays may require that some or all of the procedures be performed more frequently than presented in the schedule.

  • Page 123: Warnings & Precautions

    40% formaldehyde, and 20% sodium hydroxide. Never use acetic acid, DMSO, or organic solvents. Other chemicals may cause severe damage to the instrument. Contact BioTek prior to using any other chemicals. Refer to Appendix C, Chemical Compatibility Caution: Sodium Hypochlorite.

  • Page 124: Maintenance Programs

    | Chapter 4: Maintenance and Performance Verification (IQ/OQ/PQ) Maintenance Programs The ELx50™ onboard software contains pre-defined maintenance programs, including DAY_RINSE, RINSE_AND_SOAK, OVERNIGHT_LOOP, DECONTAMINATION, These programs are accessible from the washer main menu, under the LONG_SHUTDOWN. option. MAINT To run a maintenance program:...

  • Page 125: Prime Programs

    Maintenance Program: RINSE_AND_SOAK Prime Program: P_RINSE_AND_SOAK Prime Volume: 60 mL Flow Rate: Soak After Prime? Soak Duration: 5 minutes* Maintenance Program: OVERNIGHT_LOOP Prime Program: P_RINSE_LOOP Prime Volume: 40 mL Flow Rate: Soak After Prime? Soak Duration: 4 hours ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 126: Daily Maintenance

    DAY_RINSE Daily maintenance involves flushing the washer with an appropriate reagent at the beginning of the day (BioTek recommends using a buffer solution in the morning). program is recommended for the morning. This should be done on DAY_RINSE the same day the microplates are washed.
  • Page 127 Prime Volume 60 mL 1 to 200 mL Prime Flow Rate 1 to 9, or 1 to 7 for 12-channel manifold Soak After Prime? Enabled Enabled/Disabled Soak Duration 3 hours, 50 minutes 1 minute to 18 hours ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 128: Overnight Maintenance

    OVERNIGHT_LOOP important to keep the manifold in a wetted condition to ensure proper evacuation of fluid. BioTek recommends changing the Soak Duration to 18 hours for overnights and weekends when the washer isn't being used. This will decrease flow problems and is a more trouble-free way to operate the washer.

  • Page 129: Rinse_And_Soak

    CONNECT RINSE AND PRESS <START> KEY MAINTENANCE RUNNING PRESS <STOP> TO QUIT. Washers equipped with automatic valve switching: Select MAINT Press the Option key until RINSE_AND_SOAK appears RINSE VALVE? A START MAINTENANCE? YES MAINTENANCE RUNNING PRESS <STOP> TO QUIT. ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 130: Monthly Maintenance

    • Spare gasket for aspiration carrier (rubber seal, ELx50™/8FMW) (PN 4072096) • Spare vent plug o-rings for aspiration carrier (2 per plug, ELx50/8FMW) (PN 19497) Part numbers are subject to change over time. Please contact BioTek Customer Care if you have any questions.

  • Page 131: Cleaning The Bottles

    Run hot water through both the inlet and outlet fittings. Check to see if water comes out of all of the dispense and aspirate tubes. If not, soak the manifold in hot soapy water and repeat. ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 132: Cleaning The Aspirate And Dispense Tubes

    Rinse the manifold with deionized or distilled water. Check to see if water comes out of all of the dispense and aspirate tubes. When satisfied, replace all of the plugs. Remount the manifold and replace the tubing. See Figures 8 , and Replace the mist shield. BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 133: Cleaning The Carrier

    If liquid has overflowed onto the microplate carrier, some crystal buildup may occur, preventing the microplate from seating correctly onto the carrier. The aspiration carrier in the ELx50™/8FMW washer may also have some residual buildup, which can prevent proper seating of filter-bottom plates.

  • Page 134: Aspiration Carrier (Elx50/8Fmw Only)

    | Chapter 4: Maintenance and Performance Verification (IQ/OQ/PQ) Aspiration Carrier (ELx50™/8FMW only) Turn the washer on, wait for the self-test to complete, then turn the washer off. Make sure the manifold and tubes are resting above the priming trough on the aspiration carrier (“home” position).
  • Page 135 Connecting the Tubes and Bottles Chapter 2, Installation Verify performance of the aspiration carrier by performing the Evacuation Efficiency Test for the carrier on page 134. Figure 32: Replacing the Gasket in the Aspiration Carrier (ELx50™/8FMW model) ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 136: Cleaning The Check Valves

    Cleaning the Check Valves In the event that the check valves become stuck or leak, you can either clean or replace them. To replace a check valve, contact BioTek Customer Service (check valve PN 68061). To clean a check valve: Pull the tubing off the valve and pull the valve off the syringe pump port.

  • Page 137: Long-Term Storage Maintenance

    Flushes and soaks the supply tubing and manifold with disinfectant. Flushes the system with rinse. Purges the system of fluid. If your washer has the aspiration carrier (ELx50™/8FMW model) you should also disinfect the carrier as instructed on the following page. LONG_SHUTDOWN Prepare an aqueous solution of 0.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaClO, or bleach).

  • Page 138: Disinfect The Aspiration Carrier (Elx50/8Fmw)

    | Chapter 4: Maintenance and Performance Verification (IQ/OQ/PQ) Disinfect the Aspiration Carrier (ELx50™/8FMW) Do not insert a filter-bottom plate into the aspiration carrier for the following procedure. Disinfectant and rinse solutions will be dispensed into the empty carrier. Prepare an aqueous solution of 0.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaClO, or bleach).

  • Page 139: Decontamination

    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Neither BioTek nor the CDC assumes any liability for the adequacy of these solutions and methods. Each laboratory must ensure that decontamination procedures are adequate for the Biohazard(s) they handle.

  • Page 140: Tools And Supplies

    Warning! Internal Voltage. Turn off and disconnect the ELx50™ from its power supply for all decontamination operations. The bleach solution is caustic; wear gloves and eye protection when handling this solution. Do not immerse the instrument, spray it with liquid, or use a “wet”...

  • Page 141: Procedure For External Components

    Discard the used gloves and cloths using a Biohazard trash bag and an approved Biohazard container. Decontamination Procedure for Tubing and Manifold Perform the Decontamination procedure described on the previous page. Connect the ELx50™ to the power supply, and turn it on. Prepare to run the program, to decontaminate the internal DECONTAMINATION tubing and manifold parts.

  • Page 142: Alternate Decontamination Procedure For Tubing And Manifold

    Discard the used gloves and cloths using a Biohazard trash bag and an approved Biohazard container. Decontamination Procedure for Aspiration Carrier (ELx50/8FMW) If your washer is the ELx50™/FMW model, perform the following instructions to decontaminate the aspiration carrier. Prepare the cleaning solution as described on page 118.
  • Page 143 Hold the aspiration carrier over the rail so that the priming/soaking trough is closest to the rear of the washer. • Snap the two carrier rail guides onto the carrier transport rail. Reassemble the instrument, as necessary. ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 144: Performance Verification

    After the program completes, visual verification confirms that there is no residual fluid in any of the wells. If the Millipore filter-bottom plate recommended by BioTek is used, the test also measures the residual volume of the plate after evacuation.

  • Page 145: Installation Qualification (Iq)

    OQ tests to monitor for trends. • The successful completion of the OQ procedure, in combination with results that are comparable to previous PQ and OQ tests, confirms that the washer is performing consistently over time. ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 146: Performance Qualification (Pq)

    These tests should be performed routinely; the recommended interval is monthly. This frequency may be adjusted depending on the trends observed over time. • The successful completion of the PQ procedure confirms that the washer is performing consistently under normal operating conditions. BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 147: Self-Test And Checksum Test

    4070xxx Verx.xx CODE CHECKSUM: (DDA7) After a few moments, the second checksum test displays the customer configuration software part number and version: 4070xxx-FW vx.xx.x This information is important if you need to contact BioTek TAC. ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 148: Liquid Tests For The 8-, 8S- And 12-Channel Manifolds

    20 in deionized water Pipette 1 mL Tween 20 into 1 liter (1000 mL) of dionized water and mix well, Pipette 10 mL of BioTek Solution #1 100X Concentrate Wetting Agent (PN 7773002) into 1 liter of deionized water and mix well.

  • Page 149: Evacuation Efficiency Test Procedure

    There is a on page 129, for recording data reduction Liquid Tests Worksheet results. If your tests are failing, this information will be useful for BioTek TAC to help diagnose any problems. Evacuation Efficiency Test Procedure Important!

  • Page 150: Dispense Precision Test Procedure

    (630-450 nm), to reduce the influence of scratches and foreign particles that could be in the well. Print or export the results. Note: If you are using one of BioTek’s keypad-based readers, such as the ELx800™ or ELx808™, ensure that the reader is not running in Rapid mode.

  • Page 151: Liquid Tests Worksheet (8-, 8S-, And 12-Channel Manifolds)

    Calculate using a spreadsheet program Mean Absorbance (sum of all wells ÷ number of wells processed) % Coefficient of Variation (%CV) ÷ = (Standard Deviation Mean Absorbance) * 100 %CV value must be < 3.0 Pass Fail Comments: ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 152: Liquid Tests For The 16-Channel Manifold

    20 in deionized water Pipette 1 mL Tween 20 into 1 liter (1000 mL) of dionized water and mix well, Pipette 10 mL of BioTek Solution #1 100X Concentrate Wetting Agent* (PN 7773002) into 1 liter of deionized water and mix well.

  • Page 153: Evacuation Efficiency Test Procedure

    There is a on page 133, for recording data reduction Liquid Tests Worksheet results. If your tests are failing, this information will be useful for BioTek TAC to help diagnose any problems. Evacuation Efficiency Test Procedure Important!

  • Page 154: Dispense Precision Test Procedure

    (630-450 nm), to reduce the influence of scratches and foreign particles that could be in the well. Print or export the results. Note: If you are using one of BioTek’s keypad-based readers, such as the ELx800™ or ELx808™, ensure that the reader is not running in Rapid mode.

  • Page 155: Liquid Tests Worksheet (16-Channel Manifold)

    Calculate using a spreadsheet program Mean Absorbance (sum of all wells ÷ number of wells processed) % Coefficient of Variation (%CV) ÷ = (Standard Deviation Mean Absorbance) * 100 %CV value must be < 4.0 Pass Fail Comments: ELx50 Operator's Manual...

  • Page 156: Liquid Test For The Aspiration Carrier (Elx50/8Fmw)

    96-well filter-bottom microplate. The test is based on visual verification that there is no residual fluid left in any of the wells. If the Millipore plate recommended by BioTek is used (see PN below), the test also measures the residual volume of the plate after evacuation.
  • Page 157 Liquid Test for the Aspiration Carrier (ELx50/8FMW) Ensure that there is proper vacuum. Use the vent port (labeled “C”) on the carrier and the two vent plugs (located in storage slots “A” and “B”) to vary the vacuum levels. (See...

  • Page 158: Liquid Test Worksheet (Aspiration Carrier)

    0.45 µm filter pore size, 96-well plate Manufacturer brand and part number for the plate: Visual verification that all wells have been evacuated: Pass Fail Residual Weight: grams Residual Weight (Millipore MSHVN4550 only) must be < 1 g Pass Fail BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 159: Maintenance/Performance And Operational Logs

    Maintenance/Performance and Operational Logs Maintenance/Performance and Operational Logs Maintenance/Performance and Operational logs are provided on the following pages. ELx50 Operator's Manual...
  • Page 160 | Chapter 4: Maintenance and Performance Verification (IQ/OQ/PQ) BioTek Instruments, Inc.
  • Page 163 Chapter 5 Troubleshooting This chapter lists problems that you may experience with the ELx50™ washer, and suggests possible solutions for these problems. Overview ................142 Troubleshooting Checklist ............142 Troubleshooting Charts.............143 Washer Start-Up ..............143 Fluid Aspiration ..............144 Fluid Delivery ..............148 Fluid Leakage ..............150 Carrier Movement..............151...

  • Page 164: Chapter 5: Troubleshooting

    | Chapter 5: Troubleshooting Overview Every effort has been made to ensure that the ELx50™ Microplate Strip Washer is extremely reliable and easy to use. Nevertheless, you could experience problems with the washer hardware, software, and/or accessories. This chapter offers information to help resolve these problems.

  • Page 165: Troubleshooting Charts

    Supply Tubing Connections (view of connections on rear panel) Figure 16 Washer with Multiple Valve Tubing Connections (“V” versions of the ELx50) Figure 32 Replacing the Gasket in the Aspiration Carrier (ELx50/8FMW model) Washer Start-Up Problem Possible Cause Possible Solution...

  • Page 166: Fluid Aspiration

    (see Fig. 11: Washer Rear Panel Put your finger over the port; if there is no vacuum, contact BioTek TAC. Clogged aspirate tubes on Remove and clean the manifold (see the washer manifold.
  • Page 167 Bottom aspiration times (BOT ASPIRATE TIME) that are too long may cause beads to stick in the bottom of the wells. Try shorter aspiration times initially (e.g., 10 seconds), and then increase the aspiration time until suitable aspiration is achieved. ELx50 Operator's Manual...
  • Page 168 Define Wash ASPIRATION Program type used. microwells after ). Other options Options Ch. 3 aspiration. include decreasing the aspiration rate, increasing or decreasing aspiration height or tube position in the well, or adding a delay on the final aspiration. BioTek Instruments, Inc.
  • Page 169 Aspirate tubes are bent. Gently attempt to straighten the tubes using your fingers. If they remain bent, contact BioTek TAC. Note: Monthly performance of the Evacuation Efficiency test is recommended to verify that the residual volume per well after evacuation (aspiration) meets the specified criteria.

  • Page 170: Fluid Delivery

    No wash or rinse fluid. Fill bottles with appropriate fluid. System not primed. Run a Prime program using 200 ml. Faulty syringe pump. Contact BioTek TAC. Plate overfills Dispense height too high. Change the Dispense Height in the (floods). The aspirate tubes are too...
  • Page 171 When the program begins, you should be able to hear the vacuum pump turn on. If not, contact BioTek TAC. If the vacuum pump is turning on, remove the vacuum tubing from the back of the washer while the vacuum pump is on.

  • Page 172: Fluid Leakage

    ‘T’ plug (see Cleaning the Manifold in Ch. 4 Defective seals, cont’d. Replace o-rings on washer manifold inlet fittings. Contact BioTek TAC. Teflon sleeves are Reposition sleeves. ® defective or missing. Contact BioTek TAC.

  • Page 173: Carrier Movement

    If it remains bent, contact BioTek TAC. Microplate not properly Reseat the microplate in the carrier or seated or strips not level. the strips in the holder. Make sure the plate is distributed squarely to the front edge of the carrier.

  • Page 174: Microplate Scratches

    Make sure the carrier is clean (see Cleaning the Carrier Ch. 4 Try a different microplate or strip holder. If the problem is unresolved, the carrier may have to be realigned. Contact BioTek TAC. Syringe Drive Movement Problem Possible Cause Possible Solution Syringe drive Check valves incorrectly Re-mount check valves.

  • Page 175: Appendix A: Error Codes

    Appendix A Error Codes This appendix lists error codes that may appear on the ELx50™ washer. If an error appears, refer to Chapter 5, Troubleshooting. Contact BioTek’s Technical Assistance Center if further instructions are necessary. Error Codes ................154 General Errors.................155 Fatal Errors................157...

  • Page 176: Error Codes

    General Errors on the following page. • A denotes a more serious error, which requires that the ELx50™ be turned off and then powered up. Upon restarting the washer, you should be able to enter commands into the keypad. See Fatal Errors on page 157.

  • Page 177: General Errors

    General Errors General Errors General errors indicate non-fatal conditions that require attention. If an error is displayed, refer to Chapter 5, Troubleshooting . Contact BioTek’s Technical Assistance Center if further instructions are necessary. Error Code Cause ABORT_ERR 0100 Wash function aborted.
  • Page 178 This is not a valid hardware configuration. SOAK_SHAKE_ERR 3100 Error running shake/soak protocol. Notes: • Calibration errors (CAL_DATA_ERR; AUTOCAL_ABORT_ERR) will normally be displayed only during calibration or repair of the instrument by BioTek TAC. Syringe errors (SYRINGE_FMEA_ERR) indicate movement problems. • BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 179: Fatal Errors

    Fatal Errors Fatal Errors Fatal errors indicate conditions that require immediate attention. If a fatal error is displayed, contact BioTek’s Technical Assistance Center for further instructions. Error Code Cause TCB_NOT_AVAIL_ERR A100 Task control block not available. READ_NOT_AVAIL_ERR A200 Washer function already in use.

  • Page 180: Dispense Volume Invalid For Manifold Type (0F00 Error)

    An 0F00 error at run-time indicates a validation error in the washer program, and that the current dispense volume/flow rate combination is invalid for the washer manifold type. The ELx50™ basecode does not perform this type of validation during program creation. To eliminate this error, edit the washer program and change the Dispense Volume and/or Dispense Flow Rate so that they are compatible with your manifold type.

  • Page 181: Appendix B: Elx50 Manifold Variations

    Appendix B ELx50 Manifold Variations This appendix lists the parts you need to purchase and the steps you need to take to reconfigure the ELx50™ Washer to work with a different manifold. ELx50 Manifold Variations ............160 Reconfiguring the Washer.............160 Hardware Steps ..............161...

  • Page 182: Elx50 Manifold Variations

    For ELX50/8, ELX50/12 and ELX50/8FMW Note: If you have the ELx50/8FMW model, you can have either an 8-, 8s-, or 12-channel manifold. However, only the 8- and 8s-channel manifolds are compatible with the aspiration carrier. If your current...

  • Page 183: Hardware Steps

    ELx50 Manifold Variations For ELX50™/16 If your current And you plan to manifold is: use this manifold: You need to: 16- or 8-channel 8-, 8s-, or 16-channel • Purchase the new manifold. • Perform the hardware steps. • Perform the software steps.

  • Page 184: Software Steps

    SETUP MANIFLD SELECT MANIFOLD: * 16 is not available on ELx50™/8FMW models. To use the aspiration carrier: Select 8 or 8S from the menu path above for the manifold. Create an aspirate-only program and select BOT for the Aspirate Type.

  • Page 185: Appendix C: Chemical Compatibility

    Appendix C Chemical Compatibility This appendix contains a name and materials listing of each ELx50™ component that will come into contact with chemicals dispensed during operation or maintenance. If there are questions about compatibility of chemicals with the ELx50, contact BioTek.
  • Page 186 Body: Nylon; filter: borosilicate glass microfibers with PVDF Fluorocarbon Resin binder Paint Polyurethane The optional vacuum pump muffler (PN 4073009) is included with ELx50™ washers that are equipped with the new vacuum pump (washers manufactured after January 2008). BioTek Instruments, Inc.

  • Page 187: Appendix D: Default Programs

    Appendix D Default Programs This appendix lists all default wash, prime, dispense, aspirate, and maintenance programs available onboard the ELx50™. Default Programs..............166...
  • Page 188 LONG_SHUTDOWN DECONTAMINATION * ELx50/8FMW model: The microplate carrier for the ELx50/8FMW model should be installed when running any of the onboard programs. The aspiration carrier does not support these programs, and is specifically designed for bottom aspiration of filter-bottom plates.

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