Bio-Tek ELx800 User Manual

ELx800™
Absorbance Microplate Reader
Operator’s Manual

Bio-Tek ELx800 Specifications

General

Brand	Bio-Tek
Model	ELx800
Category	Laboratory Equipment
Language	English

Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction

Introducing the ELx800 Automated Microplate Reader

Describes the ELx800 reader's purpose and capabilities as a single-channel reader-assay system.

Hardware Features

Details the physical components and specifications of the ELx800 instrument.

Software Features

Outlines the functionalities and capabilities of the ELx800's embedded software.

Package Contents

Lists all items included in the ELx800 package upon purchase.

Optional Accessories

Lists available add-ons and upgrades to enhance the ELx800's functionality.

Standard Model Specifications

Specifies performance parameters for the standard ELx800 configuration.

Ultraviolet/UV Model Specifications

Details specifications specific to the UV-capable ELx800 model.

Narrow Beam/NB Model Specifications

Lists specifications for the ELx800 model with narrow beam capability.

Technical Support

Provides contact information and procedures for obtaining technical assistance.

Chapter 2: Installation

Unpacking and Inspecting the ELx800™

Instructions for safely removing and checking the instrument and its accessories upon arrival.

Setting Up the ELx800

Guides on configuring the instrument's environment and connections.

Power-Up and System Test

Describes the initial power-on sequence and the automatic system self-test.

ELx800 Main Menu

Introduces the primary navigation interface of the ELx800.

Configuring Global Default Options

Explains how to set up general instrument preferences and settings.

Connecting a Printer to the ELx800

Provides steps for connecting a compatible printer to the reader.

Setting Up the Serial Port for Communications With Other Devices

Guides on configuring the serial port for data transfer and control.

Installing Additional Filters

Instructions for physically installing or changing optical filters in the instrument.

Repackaging and Shipping the ELx800

Detailed instructions for safely packing the instrument for transit.

Chapter 3: Operation

ELx800 Front Panel

Describes the physical interface and controls on the front of the ELx800.

Overview

General introduction to operating the ELx800 and its software.

Recommendations for Achieving Optimum Performance

Tips and guidelines for maximizing the accuracy and reliability of measurements.

System Startup

Procedures for powering on the ELx800 and initiating its self-test sequence.

Main Menu

Details the functions and navigation options available from the main operational screen.

Define

Guides on creating, modifying, and managing assay protocols and parameters.

Reading a Microplate

Step-by-step process for performing a measurement run with a microplate.

Printing Reports

Options and procedures for generating and printing assay results and data.

Using the Utility Options

Accessing and configuring instrument settings and preferences.

Chapter 4: Performance Verification and IQ/OQ/PQ Procedures

Recommendations for Achieving Optimum Performance

Guidelines to ensure accurate and reliable instrument operation.

Recommended Test Schedule

Defines intervals for routine performance testing of the instrument.

System Test

Verifies the instrument's internal components and light path functionality.

Checksum Test

Confirms the integrity of the instrument's software programming.

Absorbance Plate Test

Assesses mechanical alignment, accuracy, and linearity using a test plate.

Test Failures

Actions to take if the Absorbance Plate Test parameters report a "FAIL".

Liquid Testing

Procedures for verifying performance using liquid samples.

Chapter 5: Maintenance and Decontamination

Maintenance

General procedures for keeping the instrument in good working order.

Replacing the Bulb

Instructions for safely replacing the instrument's lamp.

Decontamination Procedure

Protocols for decontaminating the instrument, especially before shipping or servicing.

Chapter 6: Troubleshooting and Error Codes

Overview

Introduction to diagnosing and resolving instrument issues and error messages.

System Test Description

Explains the purpose and function of the ELx800's internal system test.

Glossary of Terms

Definitions of key terms used in troubleshooting and error code sections.

Error Codes

Lists and explains the various error codes displayed by the ELx800.

Appendix A: Controlling the Reader With KCjunior™ or KC4™

Overview

Introduces using PC software for enhanced reader control and flexibility.

Controlling the Reader With KCjunior™

Instructions for setting up and operating the ELx800 using KCjunior software.

Controlling the Reader With KC4™

Instructions for setting up and operating the ELx800 using KC4 software.

Appendix B: Using 384-Well Geometry

KCjunior™

Guidance on manipulating data from 384-well plates using KCjunior.

KC4™

Guidance on manipulating data from 384-well plates using KC4.

Appendix C: Report Format

Samples with calls on Matrix Report

Shows a matrix report displaying sample results and calls.

Curve Fit Report

Illustrates the graphical representation of curve fitting results.

Samples with calls on Column Report

Displays sample results and calls in a columnar format.

Column Report without samples

Example of a column report showing only header and control data.

Panel Report

Shows a report detailing results for assays within a defined panel.

Assay Detail Report (Sheet 1 of 2)

Comprehensive report detailing assay parameters and settings.

Assay Detail Report (Sheet 2 of 2)

Continuation of the detailed assay parameters and settings report.

Appendix D: Comparison of the ELx800 and the EL800

Feature Comparison Table

A table comparing the features of the ELx800 and EL800 microplate readers.

Appendix E: Instructions for Programming a New Assay

Sample ANA Screen Enzyme Immunoassay Kit (Transformation and Cutoff)

Example of programming an assay with transformation and cutoff calculations.

Sample Human Anticardiolipin IgG Enzyme Immunoassay Kit (Standard Curve and Cutoff)

Example of programming an assay with standard curve and cutoff determination.