Apricot Designs i-PIPETTE Series Operating Instructions Manual

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Page 3 Thank you! Thank you for purchasing an i-Pipette. Designed and manufactured by Apricot Designs, Inc. – this instrument is precision-engineered to the highest industrial standards. Our ongoing commitment is to help you get the best results, so we designed and manufactured this instrument with you in mind.
Page 4 Apricot Designs is not responsible for any errors that may occur. Apricot Designs, Inc. assumes no responsibility for any damage or loss resulting from the use of this manual. The information contained in this manual is subject to change without notice.
Page 5: Table Of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 - Speciﬁcations.............................. 7 1.1 - Safety Precautions ........................8 1.2 - Inspection and Set-Up........................9 1.3 - Moving the i-Pipette........................10 1.4 - Warning Symbols ........................10 1.5 - Software Specs and Requirements.................... 11 2 - Features..............................12 2.1 - Applications ..........................
Page 6 4.7.6 - Auto Delay (Sec) ......................43 4.7.7 - Head Open Adj (Step) ....................43 4.7.8 - Four-in-one Head ......................43 4.7.9 - Head Sensor Status......................43 4.7.10 - Blow Volume (µL) ......................44 4.7.11 - Elevator Speed (%) ......................44 4.7.12 - Asp Target Z (mm) ......................44 4.7.13 - Dsp Target Z (mm) ......................44 4.7.14 - Adj Original Z (mm).......................44 4.7.15 - Auto Airgap Volume (µL)....................44...
Page 7: Specifications
SPECIFICATIONS The following is a list of the ideal operating parameters for the i-Pipette. This instrument will perform optimally and safely under standard laboratory settings. The use of this instrument in other environments is not recommended, and results may prove unsatisfactory. Model Dispensing Precision (96-1000) <3% CV at 10µL...
Page 8: Safety Precautions
Our optional tools, equipment, and peripherals will enhance the performance of the ◆ manufactured instrument to help you get the best results. It is highly recommended that you use disposable tips manufactured by Apricot Designs ◆ because they are designed to perform optimally with our instruments.
Page 9: Inspection And Set-Up
Care should be exercised when unpacking the crate. Inspect the instrument for any visible damage that may have occurred during shipping. DO NOT PLUG IN OR TURN ON THE SYSTEM Contact Apricot Designs immediately – take a picture of the damage and send it to info@apricotdesigns.com Contact the freight carrier.
Page 10: Moving The I-Pipette
1.3 – Moving the i-Pipette Lift the i-Pipette unit by the base plate of the instrument. DO NOT lift the instrument by the cover or by the shuttle! Keep your back straight and lift with your legs to avoid possible injury. Place the instrument on a steady, sturdy, ﬂat and level surface.
Page 11: Warning Symbols
The i-Pipette works on a Windows 7/8/10 64-bit computer. i-Pipette System Requirements • Microsoft Surface Pro • i5 CPU Processor, 4gb RAM, 1gb HD Apricot representative will assist in developing your requirements/speciﬁcations list. • USB cable, type B to type A • Power cord Software Requirement: Microsoft Ofﬁce 2010, AccessDatabaseEngine_64.exe...
Page 12: Features
FEATURES Automated High-Performance Multichannel Pipetting Innovative, Accurate, Precise Trusted Brand A high-performance Apricot Designs multi-channel liquid handling specializes in high quality system – easily conﬁgured for multi-channel pipettors a variety of applications designed to help you get the best results...
Page 13: Quick Reference Diagrams
2.2 – Quick Reference Diagrams i-Pipette Pro 1 iPod controller 2 Tips 3 Pipetting head 4 Elevator Handle 5 Tray seat 6 Elevator height lock 7 Power connector 8 ON/OFF switch...
Page 14 i-Pipette Basic 1 iPod controller 2 Tips 3 Pipetting head 4 Pipetting head locking lever 5 Elevator Handle 6 Tray seat 7 Elevator height lock 8 Power connector 9 ON/OFF switch...
Page 15: Core, Tip, And Head Compatibility
Tips are available in Non-Sterile (NS), Sterile (S), and Filter Sterile (FS). Please see the matrix below for complete Core/Head/Tip compatibility. The part numbers listed are for your convenience in ordering. *Please contact your Apricot Sales or Service representative for assistance. Serial Dilution Tips (096/384...
Page 16 Serial Dilution Tips (096/024 Serial Dilution Tips 96/1000 Volume Range Heads Heads/Inserts channel) (Strip Tips) by Column 5-1000µL 096-A-01-EZL-SL-1000 1000-096-EZ-NS/S/FS 096-A-01-EZL-1000-SC 1000-008-EZ-NS/S/FS (M519-410-1400B) (w/096-A-01-EZL-SL-1000) 5-500µL 096-A-01-EZL-SL-550 550-096-EZ-NS/S/FS 096-A-01-EZL-0500-SC 550-008-EZ-NS/S/FS (M519-455-1000B) 250-096-EZ-NS/S/FS (w/096-A-01-EZL-SL-550) 250-008-EZ-NS/S/FS 550-024(OS)-EZ-NS/S/FS 5-125µL 096-A-01-EZL-SL 125-096-EZ-NS/S/FS 096-A-01-EZL-SC 125-008-EZ-NS/S/FS (M519-401-0700B) 050-096-EZ-NS/S/FS (M519-103-07CM) 050-008-EZ-NS/S/FS...
Page 17: Pipettor + Head + Tips = Repeatable Results
The i-Pipette uses the exclusive EZ-Load tips to simplify pipettor operation with disposable tips. This patented technology from Apricot Design is the only system using disposable tips that do not need to be “pressed on” with excessive downward force in order to create a reliable seal.
Page 18: Operation Overview
OPERATION OVERVIEW...
Page 19: Gui Overview
‘Apricot’ then tap the Search button. The i-Pipette under ‘Apricot Designs Inc.’ with an apricot icon will display. Tap it and tap INSTALL and the latest software will be downloaded into the iPod. When using the iPod to control the i-Pipette, change the iPod IP address back to connect to the Wi-Fi network of the i-Pipette.
Page 20: Main Screen Overview
4.3 – Main Screen Overview Main Screen...
Page 21 1 Remaining volume – Displays the current remaining volume in the tips 2 Conﬁguration File Button – Tap it to open the conﬁguration parameter list. 3 Aspirate Volume Input Button – Display and change the aspirate volume value. 4 Aspirate Speed Input Button – Display and change the aspirate speed value. 5 Aspirate Depth Input Button –...
Page 22: Using The Software
4.4 – Using the Software 4.4.1 – Confirm Machine Model The iPod retrieves the i-Pipette information, i.e., model, machine ID and the original position. The i-Pipette model name and machine ID will be shown in the Information Page.
Page 23: Set Pipetting Head
4.4.2 – Set Pipetting Head It is necessary to set an appropriate pipetting head volume for the i-Pipette. For i-Pipette models IP96B-500 and IP96P-500, the default maximum volume is 500µL; for i-Pipette models IP96B-125 and IP96P-125, the default maximum volume is 125µL; for i-Pipette models IP384B-125 and IP384P-125, the default maximum volume is 125µL.
Page 24: Aspirate
4.5.1 – Aspirate Tap the Aspirate Volume button and the Input Panel window is displayed. Tap the + or - button or move the slider bar for each digit to the desired number, and tap OK to exit the Input Panel. The new number will replace the old value and display it on the volume value button.
Page 25: Dispense
Tap the Tip Depth button and the Integer Input Panel window is displayed. Tap the + or - button or move the slider bar for each digit to the desired number, and tap OK to exit the Input Panel. The new number will replace the old value and display it on the depth value button.
Page 26: Execute Command
4.6 – Execute Command After setting operation parameters, tap any execution button in the Command Execution Panel to execute the single command. Tap the Shift button to switch to another group of command buttons.
Page 27: Aspirate
4.6.1 – Aspirate Put a plate with liquid on the elevator and manually adjust the elevator to set the aspirate depth. Read the number on the scale and input the value into the Tip Depth button for the aspirate parameters on the left side. For automatic mode: Set the Tip depth value without locking the elevator.
Page 28: Blow Out
4.6.5 – Blow Out After ﬁnishing the Empty execution, tap the Blow Out button and the i-Pipette will execute the Blow Out function to blow out any remaining liquid in the tips. If the remaining volume is not greater than 1µL, the Blow Out command can be executed directly to empty and blow out all the liquid.
Page 29: Serial Dilution Function
4.6.7 – Serial Dilution Function This section is for machines equipped with a manual or motorized two station platform. Manual Serial Dilution For the IPB machine without motorized elevator functionality (models IP96B-500, IP96B-125, IP384B-125), when the Serial Dilution button is tapped, the manual Serial Dilution window will appear.
Page 30 Serial dilution parameters can be saved into three sets: VALUE 1, VALUE 2 and VALUE 3. After exiting the window, enter the serial dilution window and it shows the set of parameters used previously. Automatic Serial Dilution For the machine with the elevator movement motor (model IP96P-500, IP96P-125, IP384P-125), when the Serial Dilution button is tapped the following automatic Serial Dilution window will be shown.
Page 31 the dispense height in mix is the height deﬁned under Dispense Height. After ﬁnishing the mix cycle, the elevator will move to the deﬁned aspirate height to aspirate the volume that is deﬁned in Pre-Aspirate. After serial dilution is ﬁnished in one column or row, the Serial Dilution Count number will be increased to 1 and the elevator will move back to the index height deﬁned under Index Height.
Page 32: Initialize
With the motorized two station mechanism, the column serial dilution function could be executed automatically column-by-column without adjusting index instrument to move the plate by columns manually. In addition to the buttons just described (Automatic Serial Dilution), other buttons are enabled.
Page 33: Change Head
4.6.11 – Change Head The Change Head function is only for models with automated head changing (model IP96P-500, IP96P-125, and IP384P-125). Tap the Change Head button, and the head will unlock and be ready for changing. After changing the head, tap OK to lock the new head in place. 4.6.12 –...
Page 34: Home Z
The transfer function combines Aspirate, Dispense and Empty functions together in one window to perform a transfer function. Input Air Gap, Volume, Speed and Height for aspirate in the Aspirate section. Input the Passing Height, Volume, Speed and Height for dispense or empty in the Dispense section.
Page 35: Function
4.6.16 – Function If the i-Pipette has motorized elevator functionality (models IP96P-500, IP96P-125, IP384P-125), after tapping the Shift button, the Function button will be available. The Function command allows a user to write and save up to 10 multi-step protocols. The protocols are written using the command buttons on the right side of the screen.
Page 36 If Left or Right under STATION is enabled, the station needs to be deﬁned beforehand in the protocol before making other execution commands. To move a command line within a protocol highlight the line by touching it and tap the Up button once to move the selected command up one line.
Page 37: Fill Plate
command will replace the highlighted command. If the Replace button is tapped, the button text will change back to Add. After the protocol has been completed, tap the RUN button to execute the commands in the protocol. During the running period, tap the STOP button to terminate the execution of the protocol.
Page 38: Record
The target station for serial dilution is ﬁxed as the left side station. If a 384 channel plate is used as the target plate, the button will show ‘384.’ Otherwise, tap the 384 button to let the text change into ’96’ and use a 96 channel plate to perform serial dilution. Input the start column number in Start Column and input the end column number in End Column for automatic serial dilution.
Page 39 Record is a new way of creating new protocols by recording the commands the user sent to the i-Pipette. These commands can be stored for later use. The user can press Start Record and the green color around it will turn red, indicating that it’s recording commands. Then tap OK and the main window will appear.
Page 40: Pooling
4.5.19 – Pooling The Pooling command is used to aspirate liquid from multiple source columns and empty to a single destination column. The Left station is the default position for the pooling (source) plate, the Right station is the default position for the Collecting (destination) plate. Set the appropriate plate formats, volumes and speeds by toggling the buttons on the menu.
Page 41: Set Configuration Parameters
4.7 – Set Configuration Parameters Tap the CONFIG button on the main screen to show the conﬁguration widow. Tap the values on the right side to change the conﬁguration parameters. Tap the name of the parameter on the left side of the screen to restore the default values. Self Test is for the i-Pipette life test.
Page 42: Max Volume (Μl)
4.7.3 – Max Volume (μL) Sets the maximum volume that can be aspirated by the Pipettor. If low volume tips are being used, changing this setting to match the tip volume can help avoid aspirating liquid into the dispensing block. 4.7.4 –...
Page 43: Auto Delay (Sec)
4.7.6 – Auto Delay (Sec) Auto Delay sets the delay time (in seconds) for the auto functions. After the elevator sensor is touched, the i-Pipette will wait for the deﬁned delay time and then begin to execute the auto function. The auto delay adjustment range is from 1 to 8 seconds. 4.7.7 –...
Page 44: Blow Volume (Μl)
4.7.10 – Blow Volume (μL) Blow Volume sets the volume for the blow out function. The range is 16µL~80µL for 500µL plungers and 4µL-20µL for 125µL plungers. Any changes in the setting are effective only after initialization. It sets a larger value for the blow out volume and while it is easier to kick out the remaining volume in the tips by using the blow out function, it may affect the accuracy of any remaining liquid in the tips.
Page 45: Shuttle Status
Users do not need to tap Left Station or Right Station for changing stations before executing other commands. To disable the function, set Swap Station after Dispense to Off. 4.7.21 – IPC Dispenser Ipp can pair up with a 1-16 channel peristaltic pump for fast and bulk dispense. Please contact Apricot Designs for details.
Page 46: Cvtc
4.7.23 – Maintenance Alert User can manually turn off the Maintenance reminder. It is to remind the user to schedule a preventive maintenance with Apricot Designs or authorized dealer to ensure the operation of the instrument. 4.8 – Make User Profile The User Proﬁle is for users to save all the basic operation parameter settings on the main...
Page 47: File Name
4.8.1 – File Name The File Name text box is for the user to input a proﬁle name. Tap a proﬁle button and then tap the File name text box. When the keyboard pops up, input text to give the proﬁle a name. After saving the proﬁle, the input text as a proﬁle name will be shown on the deﬁned proﬁle button.
Page 48: Define Liquid Class
4.9 – Define Liquid Class Tap the Liquid Class button in the command execution panel to show the Deﬁne Liquid Class window. From zero to the maximum volume of the pipettor, the user can divide it into several volume ranges and set a different calibration value for each range. The sequence for setup is from the top to the bottom.
Page 49 Tap the top right-side calibration value button and a four digit Input Panel will display. Use the + or - button to set the calibration value. Use the same method to set up different calibration values for each volume range. If the Default button is tapped, all the settings will be changed to the default values.
Page 50: File
4.9.1 – File Users can save up to 8 different Liquid Class settings using the Files function. 4.9.2 – File Name The File Name text box is for the user to input a liquid class ﬁle name. Tap a liquid class ﬁle button and then tap the File Name text box.
Page 51: Cvtc (Continuous Variable Target Correction)
CVTC (Continuous Variable Target Correction) CVTC can adjust the plunger motor steps according to the liquid level in the tips. This is very useful for accurate multiple dispense like Fill plate with a column head. Click CONFIG and choose Yes or No to Use CVTC. ◆...
Page 52: How To Change The Cvtc
5.1 – How to Change CVTC CVTC is composed two part of values, Aspirate and Dispense. Aspirate value corrects the motor steps to aspirate the desired volume, and Dispense value corrects the motor steps to dispense at different region of the tip. Note: Turn off CVTC in conﬁg when obtaining new value.
Page 53: Dispense Value
5.1.2 – Dispense Value The most efﬁcient way to collect the values is to weigh smaller volume for the top and bottom region of the tip and weight larger volume for the middle region of the tip. For example: for 1000µL tips, aspirate 1000µL then weight every 20µL ﬁrst then increase to 100 or 200µL, then change back to 20µL for the last 200µL region of the tip.
Page 54: Backup And Restore Protocol
BACKUP AND RESTORE PROTOCOL The updated App allows users to save protocols, settings and Values to the Apricot Cloud. The stored information is then available for download if recovery is needed. The Backup function also facilitates ready sharing of database information amongst multiple users using separate iPOD/iPAD mini devices.
Page 55 After initialization is complete, exit the software and connect the iPod/iPad Mini to an ◆ external WiFi with Internet connection. Notice: The WiFi on the machine does not have internet access. Reopen the IPP software and select Click the information icon ( i ) to enter the Help Information Page ◆...
Page 56 Click on ADI Cloud for Backup/Restore menu Click Backup to save your protocols, settings and head/plate database to ADI cloud. ◆ Once the database has been backed up the Restore function can be used to retrieve the information.
Page 57 Match the ID with the Operating Machine Wait for “Backup/Restore successful” message to appear then click OK. All protocol and ◆ Value are ready to use.
Page 58: Operating Instructions
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 7.1 – Installing/Removing the Pipetting Head 7.1.1 – Installation Important Note: Before installing the pipetting head, please check the following; The Max Volume setting in the Conﬁg tab is not greater than the volume of the Head and ◆...
Page 59: Removal
◆ maximum volume of the pipettor during head reinstallation. I Apricot does not recommend parking the system with tips loaded. This may cause ◆ unnecessary wear to the silicone sealing pad. It is OK to park the system with the head installed without tips.
Page 60 Place the IP-Indexer 384 into the center cutout on the elevator plate. Place the 384-well plate on top of the IP-Indexer 384. The upper cutout on the elevator plate allows the 384-well plate to access all four quadrants. The diagram below shows the 4 indexed corners that the 384-well plate is positioned to, as well as which well the positions will correspond to.
Page 61: Ip Indexer 96 Plate
7.3.2 – IP-Indexer 96 Plate 384 i-Pipettes will come with a slightly different elevator tray than the 96 i-Pipettes. For the 384 i-Pipette units, an additional accessory piece, the IP-Indexer 96 will be included. The IP-Indexer 96 is used only on the 384 i-Pipettes. The function of the IP-Indexer 96 is to use a 384 i-Pipette unit to dispense into a 96-well plate.
Page 62 Using the 384 i-Pipette to dispense into a 96-well plate. Place the IP-Indexer 96 into the center of the elevator tray. Fit the 96-well plate into the IP-Indexer 96. This will line up the 96-well plate with the 96 offset head used. Using the 384 i-Pipette to index into a 384-well plate with a 96 offset heat.
Page 63: Emergency Stop
EMERGENCY STOP Emergency Stop For emergency stop at any time, press the STOP button on the iPod controller..
Page 64: Care And Maintenance
CARE AND MAINTENANCE Proper care and maintenance can ensure the efﬁciency, safety and durability of the instrument. It is imperative that an appropriate daily cleaning procedure be devised so that the pipetting head assembly does not become contaminated or damaged by harsh solvents. Recommended daily maintenance program for the i-Pipette.
Page 65: Tip Cleaning (Fixed Tips)
9.1 – Tip Cleaning (Fixed Tips) Fixed stainless steel tips should be cleaned immediately after pipettor usage. NEVER LEAVE LIQUID IN the TIPS FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME! Certain types of liquid may cause damage or clogging of the tips when left inside the tips. ◆...
Page 66 Washing manifold Connect water hose to the rear of the wahing manifold. Water hose Place washing manifold onto tip head. To water tap Washing fixture Secure washing manifold with 4 thumbscrews. Invert the entire unit and turn on water at high pressurefor a minimum of 5 minutes.
Page 67: Sonic Cleaning (For Disposable And Fixed Tips)
9.4 – Sonic Cleaning (for Disposable and Fixed Tips) TIP HEAD ASSEMBLY CLEANING ILLUSTRATIONS USING SONICATOR. Positioning the pipetting head in sonicator as shown below, then sonicate the pipetting head fo about half hour. Pipetting Head Sonicator Cleaning Reagent Caution: Mixing more than 2.5 ounces of sonicating solution per liter of water may cause damage to tip surface.
Page 68: Warranty
WARRANTY Apricot Designs, Inc. warrants to the original purchaser of the i-Pipette that the instrument will meet the original manufacturer’s performance specifications, and that the instrument will be free from defects in material and/or workmanship in normal for one year from the date of delivery.
Page 69: Parts And Accessories
384) 384-A-01-EZL (Supplied with 384 Channel Head Apricot EZL i-Pipette 384) IP-Indexer 384 IP-Indexer 96 050-96R-EZL-NS Apricot 50µL EZL Tips 050-96R-EZL-S Comes in racks of 96 or 384 050-384R-EZL-NS Non-Sterile (NS) 050-384R-EZL-S Sterile (S) 125-96R-EZL-NS Apricot 125µL EZL Tips...
Page 70 The stored information is then available for download if recovery is needed. The Backup function also facilitates ready sharing of database information amongst multiple users using separate iPAD mini devices (please contact your Apricot representative for assistance with multi-user sharing).
Page 71 Step 3: Choose a destination Folder and click “Select Folder”. This action will create a sub Folder (named for the machine ID/Serial Number) and save the back-up data. Back-up data will appear as Text Documents in the folder. Click...
Page 72 Restore Follow Steps 1 and 2 as in the Backup procedure. At Step 3, select “Add File” at the iPipette3 File Sharing page. Use Browse to locate the Back-up ﬁle folder then drag the appropriate folder (system ID/Serial Number) into the iPipette3 Documents ﬁeld. This will transfer the backed-up data to the iPAD.
Page 74 Apricot Designs, Inc. 677 Arrow Grand Circle, Covina, CA 91722, USA Tel: (626) 966-3299 Fax: (626) 966-3200 info@apricotdesigns.com www.apricotdesigns.com © Copyright 2020 Apricot Designs, Inc.

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