SpectraMax M3, M4, M5, and M5
e
Multi-Mode Microplate Readers
0112-0115 F 29
Functional Description
The full power of a SpectraMax Multi-Mode Microplate Reader can only
be harnessed when the instrument is controlled using SoftMax
®
Pro
Software running on a computer connected to the instrument. For a
complete description of the modes of operation, how to choose
instrument settings, etc. refer to the SoftMax
®
Pro Software User
Guide.
However, some functionality is available directly on the instrument
without having to use SoftMax Pro Software:
• Temperature control
• Wavelength control
• Fixed-point cuvette readings
Temperature Regulation
The SpectraMax Multi-Mode Microplate Readers have been designed to
regulate the temperature of the cuvette and microplate chamber from
2°C above ambient to 60°C. Upon power up, when the incubator is off,
the temperature in the chambers is ambient and isothermal. Turning on
the incubator by pressing the key causes the instrument to
begin warming the cuvette and microplate chambers. The temperature
set point defaults to 37.0°C at start-up.
Accuracy of the temperature set point is guaranteed only if the set
point is at least 2°C above ambient. If the temperature set point is
lower than the ambient temperature, the chamber temperature
remains at ambient. Temperature regulation is controlled by heaters
only and, therefore, cannot cool the temperature to a setting lower
than ambient. Additionally, the highest setting (60°C) can be achieved
only if the ambient temperature is greater than 20°C.
Typically, the cuvette and microplate chambers reach 37.0°C in less
than 30 minutes. The temperature is maintained at the set point until
you press the incubator key again, turning temperature
regulation off.
If you turn the incubator back on after a momentary shutdown, allow
about ten minutes for the control algorithm to fully stabilize the
temperature.
Temperature regulation and control is achieved through electric
heaters, a fan, efficient insulation, and temperature sensors. The
heaters are located in the microplate chamber, which is insulated to
maintain the temperature set point. The sensors are mounted inside
the chamber and measure the air temperature.
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