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OpenSPR 1-Channel Operation Manual V4.1.01
3 MAINTENANCE AND CLEANING
Proper cleaning and maintenance of the fluidic lines within the OpenSPR is important to ensure
accurate kinetic results. The following sections outline the recommended procedures for
maintaining the OpenSPR.
3.1 Preparation of Reagents
As the OpenSPR uses microfluidic tubing, it is very important to prevent any large particulates
from entering the fluidic lines as they may cause clogs.
• All running buffers and DI water must be passed through a 0.2 µm filter prior to being
used in the OpenSPR.
• All reagents to be injected into the OpenSPR should be inspected for any large particulates
or aggregation prior to be introduced into the OpenSPR and prevented accordingly
dependent on the sample type.
3.2 Standby Mode
After an experiment is complete, and the OpenSPR instrument is not going to be used
immediately afterwards, it should be placed into standby mode. Standby mode will maintain a
low flow of running buffer/DI water through the fluidic lines to prevent any buildup of
salts/sediment.
The OpenSPR software contains built-in procedures to place the instrument into standby mode.
These procedures can be accessed once finishing a test, or by selecting the “Standby” option on
the home screen. Details into the standby mode procedures are outlined in Section 2.6.2.
It is recommended to place the OpenSPR into standby mode for a maximum of 7 days. If the
instrument is not to be used within this period, a full instrument shutdown is recommended.
3.3 Instrument Shutdown
If the OpenSPR instrument is not to be used for over 7 days before the next experiment, it is
recommended to perform a full shutdown.
To shut down the OpenSPR, all the fluidic lines must be rinsed with DI Water and 80%
isopropanol, followed by purging the lines with air. The OpenSPR software contains built-in
procedures to prepare the instrument for shutdown. These procedures can be accessed once
finishing a test, or by selecting the “Shutdown” option on the home screen. Details into the
standby mode procedures are outlined in Section 2.6.3.