Optimize Performance | 99
l Select the right cassette for the job: match your desired dispense volume to the
recommended cassette. The smallest recommended volume for a cassette type is one
aliquot. An aliquot matches the cassette type, 1 µL for the 1 µL cassette, 5 µL for the 5 µL
cassette, and 10 µL for 10 µL cassette. Except the RAD technology 8-to-1 cassette with 5
µL tubing, one aliquot is 5 X 8 = 40 µL.
l Dedicate cassettes for specific fluids or applications. Reserving specific cassettes
for specific uses avoids contamination.
l When the dispenser is idle, release the Tube Tensioner element of the cassette from
its place on the pump to minimize unnecessary stretching of the tubing. This is especially
true for the 1 µL tubing. The best practice is to unload the 1 µL cassette when dispensing
is completed.
Important: Remove the priming trough inserts when using the 8-to-1 RAD cassette.
The chute will collide with both the RAD priming cup and the Syringe dispenser insert if they
are left in the priming trough.
Before using the Syringe Dispenser
l Sufficiently prime the Syringe dispenser to ensure precision and accuracy: increase the
number of prime cycles to adequately remove all air bubbles from the tubing.
l Use the priming trough insert to capture expensive reagents for reuse. Each Syringe
dispenser’s insert can hold up to 6 ½ mL.
Recommended prime volumes for the Strip Washer
The predefined maintenance protocol for the strip washer fully primes the system,
pumping 40 mL through the tubing and pump:
l W-DAY_RINSE - recommended for daily maintenance and when changing fluids.
l Quick Prime: 5,000 µL is dispensed each time the quick prime is run. Recommended
for conditioning the dispense tips to correct for evaporation immediately prior to plate
washing.
l See also Minimum Prime Volumes for the Strip Washer on page 114.
n Note: the washer aspirates fluid during the prime step, but it does not fully
evacuate the priming trough insert.
Recommended prime volumes for the Peri-pump
Generally, the recommended prime volume is three times the dead volume, where
dead volume is the total internal volume of the fluid path. However, a primary
advantage of the Peri-pump dispenser is its entirely visible fluid path. This allows
you to prime the tubing until all visible signs of air bubbles are dissipated.
BioTek Instruments, Inc.
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