The OMNI Prep Multi-Sample Homogenizer is a variable speed, multi-sample homogenizer designed for efficient and rapid processing of up to six samples simultaneously. It is powered by a 150-watt, 30,000 rpm belt-driven motor, which contributes to its high efficiency and speed control. The device features a digital speed display and a built-in timer, allowing for precise control over homogenization parameters. The OMNI Prep operates exclusively with Disposable Probes™ plastic generator probes or specially designed Stainless Steel Probes, ensuring sample integrity and preventing cross-contamination. The motor drive unit housing is specifically designed to reduce motor noise to less than 75dB at top speed, enhancing user comfort in laboratory environments. The OMNI Prep is capable of processing samples in volumes ranging from 1.5 mL to 50 mL.
Technical Specifications:
- Variable Motor Speed: 500 - 30,000 rpm
- Speed Control Accuracy: +/- 1%
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 15.7" (40 cm) x 7.8" (20 cm) x 11.8" (33 cm)
- Weight: 21 lbs. (9.53 kg)
- Electrical Requirements: 110-230 VAC 50/60 Hz
- Standards Approval/Compliance: CE and UKCA certified
Usage Features:
The OMNI Prep offers a user-friendly interface with a control panel that includes a digital display for speed and time, along with control buttons for operation. The device has two modes of operation: Program mode and Manual mode.
- Program Mode: Allows users to define a specific process time and speed. The processing time counts down from the set value, and the operation stops when the timer reaches zero. The active program number is displayed on the LCD screen (e.g., PROGRAM 1). Programs are modifiable when active and when the OMNI Prep is not running. Modified time and speed values are automatically stored in the active program. Pressing START begins processing, and the speed can be adjusted during a run. The time counts down from the stored value. Processing can be paused at any time by pressing the STOP button or by lowering the rack; the message line will display "RUN PAUSED". Pressing START again resumes the run, with "RUN RESUMED" displayed (rack must be locked). Pressing the STOP button twice cancels the run and resets the time to the starting value.
- Manual Mode: The timer counts up from zero, and the OMNI Prep continues to process until the "Stop" button is pressed (maximum 10 minutes). The speed value is actively stored and can be changed at any time. Processing can be paused by pressing the STOP button or lowering the rack, displaying "RUN PAUSED". Pressing START resumes the run, displaying "RUN RESUMED" (rack must be locked). Pressing the STOP button twice cancels the run and resets the time to zero.
The processing rack is designed to hold up to six open or sealed tubes of various sizes. Loading samples involves determining the number of samples to be processed and placing the tube holders accordingly. For two samples, tube holders are placed between the two middle bars. For four samples, tube holders are mounted on the rack, leaving the far ends empty. For six samples, all three tube holders are mounted in the rack. Empty sample tubes are loaded into tube holders first, and fluid is added after a complete "dry" setup. Disposable or Stainless Steel Probes are installed by inserting the lower end into the sample tube, then lowering the Tip/Probe until it rests securely in the probe cradle. It is crucial to ensure probes do not touch the bottoms of the tubes.
The processing rack can be adjusted to position the samples vertically relative to the probes. This involves loading tube holders, sample tubes, and Disposable/Stainless Steel Probes. The top and lower adjustment knobs on the rear of the rack are loosened to raise or lower the platform to the desired Tip/Probe depth in the sample tubes, then tightened. The platform is moved up or down to achieve maximum height in sample tubes, and the lower adjustment knob is raised to meet the platform and tightened. Probes must not touch the bottoms of the tubes, and care must be taken to prevent probes from being extracted from the sample tubes during processing. After processing, Disposable/Stainless Steel Probes and sample tubes are removed. Tubes containing sample and fluid are then replaced, and the rack is ready to be loaded into the OMNI Prep. For stationary operation, the tube holders are loaded as described, and the processing rack toggle switch is left in the Off position. Sealed tube caps should not be used when move-able rack processing is desired, as the rack will not move with tube caps in place. A portion of the Disposable/Stainless Steel Probe shown below the red line must be submerged in liquid during processing.
An optional ice bath can be installed underneath the tube holders to keep frozen and sensitive samples cold during processing. The tube holders are lowered so that the tubes are at the desired depth relative to the ice bath, and a cooling agent (chilled water, ice, dry ice, etc.) is placed into the bath.
Installing the processing rack involves ensuring the lever is positioned all the way to the left, holding the rack in the right hand using the thumb-tab located on the center of the top plate. The rack is then slid onto the lift plate and pushed completely back until it stops. The door is closed, and the lever is swept to the right until the processing rack locks in its raised position. The lever should move smoothly and with constant motion; if it does not, the lever should be slid back to the left, the rack removed, the tops of the probe shafts rotated, and the rack replaced. This procedure should be repeated until the locking lever moves smoothly all the way to the right (fully locked position).
The processing rack operation is controlled by a toggle switch on the side of the OMNI Prep. This mechanism raises and lowers the rack, allowing for even/efficient processing. When in use, the rack oscillates through a user-specified range of motion, approximately 2 inches. The rack oscillates at an approximate rate of 0.8 Hz. The system disengages until the rack is raised into the running position by sweeping and locking the lever to the right. Once the rack is installed and a program specified, the START button is pressed, and the movable rack toggle switch is turned on.
Accessories:
- OMNI Prep Processing Rack: Movable for highly efficient process. Required for operating the OMNI Prep.
- OMNI Prep Rack Tube Holders: Available for 1.5 - 2 mL, 15 mL, and 30 or 50 mL sample tubes. Custom tube holder sizes are also available. Each holder holds 2 sample tubes. Required to operate the OMNI Prep.
- OMNI Tips™ Disposable Probes: Available in Soft Tissue (Order # 30750, 32750, 34750, 35750 for 25, 50, 100, 500 tips respectively) and Hard Tissue (Order # 30750H, 32750H, 34750H, 35750H for 25, 50, 100, 500 tips respectively).
- Stainless Steel Homogenizer Probes: Designed for larger sample volumes, larger initial sample tissue sizes, and tougher tissue types. Resistant to most organic solvents. Available in 5 x 75 mm (Order # B5-075, 6-pack # B5-075-6), 7 x 110 mm (Order # B7-110ST, 6-pack # B7-110ST-6), and 10 x 110 mm (Order # B10-110ST, 6-pack # B10-110ST-6).
- 7 mm Hybrid Probes: Combine the convenience of disposable plastic probes with the durability of traditional stainless steel probes. Made of an outer stainless steel tube with an inner Ultem plastic shaft. Can be disposed of after use or cleaned and reused multiple times. Simple two-piece design for easy disassembly and cleaning. Available as 7 x 110 mm (Order # 22-007, 6-pack # 22-007-6).
- OMNI Prep Ice Tray: Keeps frozen and sensitive samples cold during processing. Available for 1.5mL—2mL Tubes (Order # 06-207) and 15mL—50mL Tubes (Order # 06-210).
Maintenance Features:
- Cleaning: The rack and floor mat can be removed and wiped with a mild detergent and water solution. The OMNI Prep motor unit and tube holders can be wiped down with a damp cloth of the same mild detergent. Avoid submerging any part of the OMNI Prep in any solution. Do not spray cleaning solution directly onto the OMNI Prep. Plastic tube holders should not be sterilized in an autoclave as they may be damaged.
- Cleaning Disposable Probes/Tips: Disposable Probes can be autoclaved up to seven times for repeated use, but are not recommended for extended use with phenol or guanidine-based reagents. Disposal may be required when used in conjunction with these reagents. Recommended sterilization techniques include Autoclave up to 250°F, Ethylene Oxide, Formaldehyde, Glutaraldehyde (2%), and Gamma irradiation up to 5MRAD. Recommended biological disinfection methods include Alcohol (70%), Hypochlorite (5%) [chlorine bleach], and Formaldehyde (40%). Recommended radioactive decontamination methods include Radiacwash, Count-Off, and Water/Ethanol/SDS. Not recommended methods include UV Irradiation, Phenolic Derivatives, Extended exposure to Guanidine, and Dichloromethane.
- Fuse Check and Replacement: The power cord should be unplugged from the power entry module. The fuse holder is located in the center of the power entry module. To remove, slide the tab on the right-hand side of the fuse holder straight back with a screwdriver until it is completely removed. Check the fuse filament; if broken, replace it. Un-clip the expired fuse and discard, then press on one end of the enclosed portion of the fuse holder to remove the spare fuse from the casing. Replace the empty casing into the fuse holder. Clip the new fuse into the exposed side of the holder and reinstall into the power entry module. Contact OMNI International for a new replacement fuse.
- Checking Drive Belt Tension: The OMNI Prep operates by means of a belt-driven motor system. Over time, the tension of the belt may need to be adjusted or the belt itself replaced. The unit is equipped with a Belt Drive Window on top for easy viewing of the Belt Drive Tensioner. Correct belt tension is indicated when the tensioner is located between the letters "B" and "C" on the tension scale. If belt tension is incorrect, contact OMNI International.
Safety Warnings and Cautions:
- WARNING: DO NOT attempt to plug a cord into an incompatible outlet.
- WARNING: DO NOT attempt to remove the ground post on 115v cords. Service power must be earth grounded.
- CAUTION: It is strongly recommended that a surge protector be used to help protect the OMNI Prep.
- CAUTION: DO NOT allow probes to touch the bottoms of the tubes.
- CAUTION: Only probes made by OMNI International, a PerkinElmer company, are compatible with the OMNI Prep. Attempting to use other style processors will damage the OMNI Prep and void all warranties.
- CAUTION: DO NOT attempt to submerge any part of the OMNI Prep in any solution.
- CAUTION: DO NOT spray cleaning solution on to the OMNI Prep. Wipe the surfaces with a damp cloth.
- CAUTION: DO NOT sterilize plastic tube holders in an autoclave. They may be damaged if autoclaved.
- CAUTION: ANY ATTEMPT TO REMOVE ANY SURFACE OR MODIFY THE OMNI Prep IN ANY WAY WILL VOID ANY WARRANTY.
- WARNING: To reduce the risk of electric shock, personal injury, or death, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THE REAR PANEL OF THE OMNI Prep.
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