Measure OD600
Thermo Scientific NanoDrop One User Guide 131
The upper detection limit is the measured OD600 value at which there ceases to be a
linear correlation between dilution factors and OD600 readings.
• Mix samples gently but thoroughly immediately before taking an aliquot for
measurement.
• For micro-volume measurements:
– Ensure pedestal surfaces are properly cleaned and conditioned.
– Avoid introducing bubbles when mixing and pipetting.
– Start the measurement promptly to avoid settling or evaporation.
– Follow best practices for micro-volume measurements.
– Use 2 μL sample volume. See Recommended Sample Volumes for more information.
– For dilute samples that exhibit low absorbance at 600 nm, use an alternative
wavelength such as 400 nm to measure absorbance, or use cuvettes instead of
micro-volume measurements.
• For cuvette measurements (NanoDrop One
C
instruments only):
– Use clean plastic, glass or quartz cuvettes.
– Follow best practices for cuvette measurements.
– Do not use the automatic stirring feature for this assay.
To measure OD600 samples
Before you begin...
Before taking pedestal measurements with the NanoDrop One instrument, lift the instrument
arm and clean the upper and lower pedestals. At a minimum, wipe the pedestals with a new
laboratory wipe. For more information, see Cleaning the Pedestals.
NOTICE
• Do not use a squirt or spray bottle on or near the instrument as liquids will flow into
the instrument and may cause permanent damage.
• Do not use hydrofluoric acid (HF) on the pedestals. Fluoride ions will permanently
damage the quartz fiber optic cables.