Quadra 4 Operator Manual
Tomtec
129
8.0 Technical Tips
8.1 Introduction
Not only is it important to understand the function of the different transfer operations, it
is critical to arrange them correctly so that the protocol being designed functions
properly and can process the maximum number of plates in the shortest period of time.
To assure this, here are some suggestions for writing an effective protocol.
8.2 Pre-Planning
The first thing to do is determine what it is you want to accomplish, then write it down on
paper. Hypothetically, let us assume that the protocol to be created will go as follows:
Take 20uL of magnetic bead reagent (re-suspended) and add it to a compound plate
containing protein X. Mix the reagents, and then magnetize the compound plate for 2
minutes. Transfer the supernatant from the compound plate to an assay plate. Quickly
rinse the magnetic beads with 10-20uL ETOH. Remove the ETOH and dispose of it.
Repeat 20 times.
8.3 Labware
Now that you know what needs to be done, determine what you need to accomplish
with this procedure. In this case you would need: 20 assay plates, 20 compound plates,
a reservoir of magnetic bead reagent, a reservoir of ETOH, a waste station, a wash
station, a shaking stacker nest (optional), and a magnetic stacker nest.
8.4 Labware Location
Once you know what labware you need, you need to decide if you can fit it and where to
put it. First, unless it is removed, the ultra-sonic wash station should be located on the
edge of the shuttle (in order to accommodate the tubing), leaving you with 5 shuttle
positions to utilize. Use shuttle positions 4 or 6 because 1
and 3 can access the front & rear stackers so they are too valuable. Of the 40
micro-titer plates, only two are being used at the same time and therefore will only
occupy 2 shuttle positions.
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