3-8 Set Up and Analyzer Description
3.5 Reagent Rotors
The reagent rotors are specially designed to perform all the steps required to convert a few drops
of blood into a panel of test results.
The rotor spins, separating the whole blood sample into
plasma and cells. Precisely measured quantities of plasma and
diluent are mixed together and delivered to the reaction
cuvettes along the rotor perimeter. The diluted plasma dis-
solves the reagent beads, initiating the chemical reactions
which are monitored photometrically. The bar code printed on
the rotor bar code ring provides calibration data specific for
the chemistries in the rotor, ensuring accurate results.
A sample is introduced into the reagent rotor via the Sample
Port. A circle around the sample port is printed on the surface
of each rotor to aid the operator in locating this port.
The Sample Fill Line is indicated by the two arrows on the rotor surface. The sample will form a
line between the arrows when sufficient sample has been placed in the rotor sample chamber.
A Diluent Container is sealed with foil and can be seen in the center of the reagent rotor. The
container is automatically opened after a rotor is inserted into the analyzer and the drawer is
closed. The diluent is an aqueous solution which is used to dilute the plasma.
Cuvettes are located along the perimeter of the reagent rotor and contain analyte-specific dry
reagent beads. System cuvettes perform internal rotor quality control. A dark cuvette and an open
cuvette are employed in calibrating the analyzer photometer. Another cuvette ensures that an ade-
quate amount of sample is in the rotor.
The Bar Code Ring is a white plastic piece that is attached to the top of the reagent rotor. A bar
code is printed on the ring. The bar code ring is designed to keep fingerprints off the cuvette opti-
cal surfaces. It also aids in preventing contamination of the analyzer by capturing small drops of
blood that may be on the rotor surface.
The Bar Code contains calibration coefficients, a rotor identification code, rotor lot number, and
rotor expiration date. The analyzer automatically checks the expiration date of each rotor. Calibra-
tion data contained in the bar code provides the analyzer with data specific to the reagents in that
particular rotor.
90 µL
> 90 µL
< 120 µL
<90 µL
> 120 µL
To Next Page
Loading...
