Thermo Fisher Scientific MagMAX™ Express 96 Owner's manual

MagMAX™ Express 96

User Manual

Rev. 1.5

Contents

Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Manual; Rev. 1.5; January 2011 2

Information in this document is subject to change without notice. Applied Biosystems assumes no responsibility for any errors that

may appear in this document.

APPLIED BIOSYSTEMS DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES WITH RESPECT TO THIS DOCUMENT, EXPRESSED OR

IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THOSE OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR

PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL APPLIED BIOSYSTEMS BE LIABLE, WHETHER IN CONTRACT, TORT, WARRANTY,

OR UNDER ANY STATUTE OR ON ANY OTHER BASIS FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT, PUNITIVE,

MULTIPLE OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES IN CONNECTION WITH OR ARISING FROM THIS DOCUMENT,

INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE USE THEREOF.

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

NOTICE TO PURCHASER: License Disclaimer

Purchase of this product alone does not imply any license under any process, instrument or other apparatus, system, composition, reagent or

kit rights under patent claims owned or otherwise controlled by Applied Bisosytems, either expressly or by estoppel.

TRADEMARKS:

Applied Biosystems, and AB (Design) are registered trademarks, and MagMAX is a trademark of Applied Biosystems or its

subsidiaries in the U.S. and/or certain other countries.

All other trademarks are the sole property of their respective owners.

Part Number N07849 Rev. B

January 2011

Contents

Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Manual; Rev. 1.5; January 2011 3

Contents

1Safety Symbols and Markings . ....................................................................................... 7

2About the User Manual. ................................................................................................. 10

3Introduction to the MagMAX™ Express 96. ................................................................. 13

4Functional Description. .................................................................................................. 14

5Installation ...................................................................................................................... 19

6Routine Operation. ......................................................................................................... 36

7Maintenance . .................................................................................................................. 46

8Technical Specifications . ............................................................................................... 50

9Troubleshooting Guide. ................................................................................................. 53

10 Warranty Information . ................................................................................................... 58

11 Ordering Information . .................................................................................................... 62

12 Glossary and Abbreviations . ......................................................................................... 63

13 Index................................................................................................................................ 66

14 Appendix A. MagMAX™ Express 96 Brief User’s Guide . ............................................ 69

15 Appendix B. MagMAX™ Express 96 Feedback Form . ................................................. 70

16 Appendix C. Certificate of Instrument Decontamination . .......................................... 71

17 Appendix D. Addresses. ................................................................................................. 73

Table of Contents

Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Manual; Rev. 1.5; January 2011 4

Table of Contents

1 Safety Symbols and Markings . ....................................................................................... 7

1.1 Instrument safety and guidelines for use . ....................................................................... 8

1.1.1 Chemical Safety Guidelines. .......................................................................................... 8

1.1.2 Biohazard Warning. ........................................................................................................ 9

2 About the User Manual. ................................................................................................. 10

2.1 Preface............................................................................................................................. 10

2.1.1 Purpose of This Guide. ................................................................................................. 10

2.1.2 Audience........................................................................................................................10

2.1.3 Assumptions. ................................................................................................................ 10

2.1.4 Text Conventions . ........................................................................................................ 11

2.1.5 User Attention Words . ................................................................................................. 11

2.1.6 Safety Alert Words . ...................................................................................................... 11

2.2 How to Obtain More Information. .................................................................................. 11

2.2.1 Related Documentation . .............................................................................................. 11

2.3 How to Obtain Support . ................................................................................................. 12

3Introduction to the MagMAX™ Express 96. ................................................................. 13

3.1 Intended use.................................................................................................................... 13

3.2 Principle of operation . .................................................................................................... 13

3.3 Advantages of processing magnetic particles with MagMAX™ Express 96 . ................... 13

4Functional Description. .................................................................................................. 14

4.1 Instrument layout. ........................................................................................................... 14

4.1.1 Front view......................................................................................................................14

4.1.2 Back / Side view . .......................................................................................................... 15

4.2 MagMAX™ Express 96 magnetic particle processor. ................................................... 16

4.3 Principle of magnetic particle processing . .................................................................... 17

4.4 Working with a magnetic rod. ........................................................................................ 17

4.4.1 Collecting magnetic particles. ...................................................................................... 17

4.4.2 Releasing magnetic particles. ...................................................................................... 17

4.4.3 Washing magnetic particles. ........................................................................................ 18

4.4.4 Incubation ......................................................................................................................18

4.4.5 Changing the volume during the magnetic particle processing. ............................... 18

5 Installation ...................................................................................................................... 19

5.1 What to do upon delivery. .............................................................................................. 19

5.1.1 How to unpack. ............................................................................................................. 19

5.1.2 Checking delivery for completeness . .......................................................................... 19

5.1.3 Checking for damage during transport . ...................................................................... 19

5.1.4 Environmental requirements . ...................................................................................... 19

5.1.5 Things to avoid. ............................................................................................................ 20

5.1.6 Technical prerequisites. ............................................................................................... 20

5.2 Setups before you put the instrument into operation . ................................................. 20

5.2.1 How to release the transport locks. ............................................................................. 20

5.2.2 How to ensure startup. ................................................................................................. 24

5.2.3 How to fit the subassemblies of the instrument into place. ....................................... 25

Table of Contents

Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Manual; Rev. 1.5; January 2011 5

5.3 Operational check . .......................................................................................................... 31

5.4 How to pack the instrument for transportation. ............................................................ 31

5.4.1 How to refit the transport lock of the heating block. .................................................. 31

5.4.2 How to refit the transport lock of the tip comb holder. .............................................. 34

6 Routine Operation. ......................................................................................................... 36

6.1 Do’s and Don’ts of the MagMAX™ Express 96 . ............................................................ 36

6.1.1 Do’s ............................................................................................................................... 36

6.1.2 Don’ts............................................................................................................................ 36

6.2 Switching on ....................................................................................................................36

6.3 How to use the keypad and display. .............................................................................. 37

6.4 How to handle tip combs . .............................................................................................. 38

6.5 How to start..................................................................................................................... 39

6.6 Changing the heating block. ........................................................................................... 43

6.7 Shutdown........................................................................................................................ 45

6.8 Emergency situations . .................................................................................................... 45

7Maintenance . .................................................................................................................. 46

7.1 Regular and preventive maintenance . ........................................................................... 46

7.1.1 How to clean the turntable. .......................................................................................... 46

7.1.2 How to clean the magnetic rods. ................................................................................. 47

7.1.3 How to clean the shield plate . ..................................................................................... 47

7.2 Disposal of materials . ..................................................................................................... 47

7.3 Decontamination procedure . ......................................................................................... 47

7.4 How to pack for service. ................................................................................................. 48

7.5 Disposal of the instrument . ............................................................................................ 49

8Technical Specifications . ............................................................................................... 50

8.1 General specifications . ................................................................................................... 50

8.2 Safety specifications. ...................................................................................................... 51

8.2.1 In conformity with the requirements. .......................................................................... 51

9Troubleshooting Guide. ................................................................................................. 53

9.1 Error messages and warnings. ....................................................................................... 53

9.2 Troubleshooting guide . .................................................................................................. 54

9.3 Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about MagMAX™ Express 96 processing. ........... 55

9.4 Service request protocol . ............................................................................................... 57

10 Warranty Information . ................................................................................................... 58

11 Ordering Information . .................................................................................................... 62

11.1 List of accessories. .......................................................................................................... 62

11.2 List of spare parts ........................................................................................................... 62

12 Glossary and Abbreviations . ......................................................................................... 63

12.1 Keywords for web pages. ............................................................................................... 64

12.2 Literature ......................................................................................................................... 64

13 Index................................................................................................................................ 66

14 Appendix A. MagMAX™ Express 96 Brief User’s Guide . ............................................ 69

15 Appendix B. MagMAX™ Express 96 Feedback Form . ................................................. 70

16 Appendix C. Certificate of Instrument Decontamination . .......................................... 71

17 Appendix D. Addresses. ................................................................................................. 73

List of Figures and Tables

Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Manual; Rev. 1.5; January 2011 6

List of Figures and Tables

Fig. 3.1 MagMAX™ Express 96 magnetic particle processor........................................... 13

Fig. 4.1 MagMAX™ Express 96 front view without see-through lid ................................. 14

Fig. 4.2 MagMAX™ Express 96 front view with see-through lid and plates..................... 14

Fig. 4.3 MagMAX™ Express 96 back view. ...................................................................... 15

Fig. 4.4 MagMAX™ Express 96 side view. ....................................................................... 15

Fig. 4.5 MagMAX™ Express 96 magnetic particle processor........................................... 16

Fig. 4.6 Inverse magnetic particle processing. ................................................................. 17

Fig. 4.7 A concentration step during magnetic particle processing ................................. 18

Fig. 5.1 MagMAX™ Express 96 transport locks fitted . ...................................................... 21

Fig. 5.2 Removing the transport lock of the tip comb holder (A). ..................................... 21

Fig. 5.3 Removing the transport lock of the tip comb holder (B)...................................... 22

Fig. 5.4 Tip comb holder transport lock removed. ............................................................ 22

Fig. 5.5 Removing the transport lock of the heating block (A).......................................... 23

Fig. 5.6 Removing the transport lock of the heating block (B). ......................................... 23

Fig. 5.7 Fastening the transport lock of the heating block to its storage site .................... 24

Fig. 5.8 Mains supply cable and serial cable connected. ................................................. 25

Fig. 5.9 Fastening/changing the heating block. ................................................................ 25

Fig. 5.10 Two different heating blocks available . ............................................................... 26

Fig. 5.11 Shield plate prior to fitting . .................................................................................. 26

Fig. 5.12 Inserting the shield plate . .................................................................................... 27

Fig. 5.13 Fastening/loosening the shield plate. .................................................................. 27

Fig. 5.14 Shield plate fitted . ............................................................................................... 28

Fig. 5.15 Interchangeable MagMAX™ Express 96 heads and tip combs available............ 28

Fig. 5.16 MagMAX™ Express 96 heads in their storage boxes . ......................................... 29

Fig. 5.17 Inserting the MagMAX™ Express 96 head . ......................................................... 30

Fig. 5.18 MagMAX™ Express 96 head for deep well plate fitted....................................... 30

Fig. 5.19 See-through lid fitted. .......................................................................................... 31

Fig. 5.20 Unfastening the transport lock screw from its storage site.................................. 32

Fig. 5.21 Refitting the transport lock of the heating block (A)............................................. 32

Fig. 5.22 Refitting the transport lock of the heating block (B). ............................................ 33

Fig. 5.23 Fitting the transport lock of the tip comb holder (A). ........................................... 34

Fig. 5.24 Fitting the transport lock of the tip comb holder (B) . ........................................... 34

Fig. 5.25 Fitting the transport lock of the tip comb holder (C). ........................................... 35

Fig. 5.26 Both transport locks refitted. ................................................................................ 35

Fig. 6.1 MagMAX™ Express 96 keypad. ........................................................................... 37

Fig. 6.2 Tip comb package with two tip combs . ............................................................... 38

Fig. 6.3 Separating the two tip combs . ............................................................................. 38

Fig. 6.4 Storing the other tip comb on a MagMAX™ Express 96 plate for further use ...... 39

Fig. 6.5 Combining the tip comb and MagMAX™ Express 96 plate (A) ........................... 39

Fig. 6.6 Combining the tip comb and MagMAX™ Express 96 plate (B) ........................... 40

Fig. 6.7 Loading the tip-plate. ........................................................................................... 40

Fig. 6.8 Loading the plates ................................................................................................ 41

Fig. 6.9 Plates loaded ........................................................................................................ 41

Fig. 6.10 Tip comb in the tip comb holder . ........................................................................ 42

Fig. 6.11 Shield plate in function. ....................................................................................... 42

Fig. 6.12 MagMAX™ Express 96 plate. .............................................................................. 43

Fig. 6.13 Fastening/changing the heating block . ............................................................... 44

Fig. 6.14 Two different heating blocks available . ............................................................... 44

Fig. 11.1 KingFisher Software CD . ..................................................................................... 62

Fig. 14.1 MagMAX™ Express 96 keypad . .......................................................................... 69

Table 6.1 Processing volumes vs. plate types. .................................................................... 43

Chapter 1: Safety Symbols and Markings

Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Manual; Rev. 1.5; January 2011 7

1 Safety Symbols and Markings

These symbols are intended to draw your attention to particularly important

information and alert you to the presence of hazards as indicated.

Safety symbols and markings used on the MagMAX™ Express 96

Power ON

Power OFF

Warning: Hot surface, risk of burns.

Warning: Risk of body parts, hair, jewelry or clothing getting caught in a moving

part.

Serial number

Catalog number

Date of manufacture

Consult instructions for use

WEEE symbol This product is required to comply with the European Union’s Waste

Electrical & Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive 2002/96/EC.

A black label with the following text (Fig. 4.3, item 6):

WARNING: DISCONNECT SUPPLY BEFORE SERVICING

AVERTISSEMENT: COUPER L'ALIMENTATION AVANT L'ENTRETIEN ET LE

DEPANNAGE

Warning markings used in the documentation

Warning: Risk of electric shock.

Chapter 1: Safety Symbols and Markings

Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Manual; Rev. 1.5; January 2011 8

Warning: Biohazard risk.

Warning: Risk of injury to the user(s).

Other markings used in the documentation

Note: Marks a hint, important information that is useful in the optimum

operation of the system, or an item of interest.

1.1 Instrument safety and guidelines for use

1. Always follow basic safety precautions when using the MagMAX™ Express

96 to reduce the risk of injury, biohazardous contamination, fire, or electrical

shock.

2. Read the user manual in its entirety prior to operating the instrument.

Failure to read, understand, and follow the instructions in the manual may

result in damage to the instrument, injury to laboratory and operating

personnel or poor instrument performance.

3. Observe all Warning and Note statements as well as safety symbols and

markings on the instrument and in the documentation.

4. The device shall be operated only with software specifically designed for

the device.

5. Never open any other covers of the MagMAX™ Express 96 than the see-

through lid (Fig. 4.2, item 1) or the sliding door (Fig. 4.2, item 2) while the

instrument is plugged into a power source.

6. Only when the instrument is switched off, can you push in the heads or turn

the turntable manually.

7. Never force a microplate into the instrument.

8. The MagMAX™ Express 96 is intended for laboratory research use only.

Observe proper laboratory safety precautions, such as wearing protective

clothing and following approved laboratory safety procedures.

9. Preventative maintenance instructions should be followed closely to keep

the instrument in the best condition for maximum reliability. A poorly

maintained instrument will not give the best results.

1.1.1 Chemical Safety Guidelines

To minimize the hazards of chemicals:

•Read and understand the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) provided by

the chemical manufacturer before you store, handle, or work with any

chemicals or hazardous materials.

•Minimize contact with chemicals. Wear appropriate personal protective

equipment when handling chemicals (for example, safety glasses, gloves,

or protective clothing). For additional safety guidelines, consult the MSDS.

Chapter 1: Safety Symbols and Markings

Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Manual; Rev. 1.5; January 2011 9

•Minimize the inhalation of chemicals. Do not leave chemical containers

open. Use only with adequate ventilation (for example, fume hood). For

additional safety guidelines, consult the MSDS.

•Check regularly for chemical leaks or spills. If a leak or spill occurs, follow

the manufacturer’s cleanup procedures as recommended in the MSDS.

•Comply with all local, state/provincial, or national laws and regulations

related to chemical storage, handling, and disposal.

1.1.2 Biohazard Warning

Biological samples such as tissues, body fluids, infectious agents, and blood of

humans and other animals have the potential to transmit infectious diseases.

Follow all applicable local, state/provincial, and/or national regulations. Wear

appropriate protective equipment, which includes but is not limited to:

protective eyewear, face shield, clothing/lab coat, and gloves. All work should

be conducted in properly equipped facilities using the appropriate safety

equipment (for example, physical containment devices). Individuals should be

trained according to applicable regulatory and company/institution

requirements before working with potentially infectious materials. Read and

follow the applicable guidelines and/or regulatory requirements in the

following:

•U.S. Department of Health and Human Services guidelines published in

Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (stock no. 017-

040-00547-4; http://bmbl.od.nih.gov).

•Occupational Safety and Health Standards, Bloodborne Pathogens (29

CFR§1910.1030; http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_01/

29cfr1910a_01.html).

•Your company’s/institution’s Biosafety Program protocols for working

with/handling potentially infectious materials. Additional information about

biohazard guidelines is available at: http://www.cdc.gov.

Chapter 2: About the User Manual

Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Manual; Rev. 1.5; January 2011 10

2 About the User Manual

The user manual has been written for the actual user (for example, laboratory

technician) and provides information on the MagMAX™ Express 96 magnetic

particle processor, including the installation and operating instructions.

Read the manual in its entirety prior to operating the instrument.

The user manual has been designed to give you the information you need to:

•Review safety precautions

•Install the MagMAX™ Express 96

•Use the MagMAX™ Express 96 in routine jobs – the processing step

•Perform basic cleaning and maintenance procedures

•Troubleshoot the instrument performance

The user manual also describes all the features and specifications of the

MagMAX™ Express 96 hardware and on-board software.

Sections 4.2 through 4.4 explain the processing principles and procedures.

In Chapter 9 Troubleshooting Guide you will find explanations of all error

messages and a problem-solving guide. The user should be familiar with the

contents of Chapter 7 on maintenance.

For warranty and ordering information, refer to Chapters 10 Warranty

Information and 11 Ordering Information.

For further software-related issues, refer to the KingFisher Software User

Manual (Cat. no. 1508540).

In an effort to produce useful and appropriate documentation, we appreciate

your comments on this user manual.

2.1 Preface

2.1.1 Purpose of This Guide

The Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Guide provides reference

material related to the Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 Magnetic

Particle Processor. It describes the system, theory of operation, and how to

prepare, maintain, and troubleshoot the system.

2.1.2 Audience

This guide is intended for novice and experienced MagMAX™ Express 96 users

who will:

•Install the Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96

•Perform routine runs using the Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96

•Perform planned maintenance procedures

2.1.3 Assumptions

This guide assumes that your Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 has

been installed by an Applied Biosystems technical representative. This guide

also assumes that you have a working knowledge of the Windows operating

system.

Chapter 2: About the User Manual

Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Manual; Rev. 1.5; January 2011 11

2.1.4 Text Conventions

This guide uses the following conventions:

•Bold text indicates user action. For example:

Type 0, then press Enter for each of the remaining fields.

•Italic text indicates new or important words and is also used for emphasis.

For example:

Before analyzing, always prepare fresh matrix.

•A right arrow symbol (→) separates successive commands you select from

a drop-down or shortcut menu. For example:

Select File → Open → Spot Set.

Right-click the sample row, then select View Filter → View All Runs.

2.1.5 User Attention Words

Two user attention words appear in Applied Biosystems user documentation.

Each word implies a particular level of observation or action as described

below:

Note: – Provides information that may be of interest or help but is not critical to

the use of the product.

IMPORTANT! – Provides information that is necessary for proper instrument

operation, accurate chemistry kit use, or safe use of a chemical.

Examples of the user attention words appear below:

Note: The Calibrate function is also available in the Control Console.

IMPORTANT! To verify your client connection to the database, you need a valid

user ID and password.

2.1.6 Safety Alert Words

Safety alert words also appear in user documentation. For more information,

see “Safety Symbols and Markings” on page 7.

2.2 How to Obtain More Information

2.2.1 Related Documentation

The following related documents are shipped with the system:

•Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Guide – Describes the

Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 hardware and software and

provides information on preparing, maintaining, and troubleshooting the

system.

•Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 Service Guide – Provides

explanatory procedures for servicing the Magnetic Particle Processors.

Chapter 2: About the User Manual

Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Manual; Rev. 1.5; January 2011 12

2.3 How to Obtain Support

For the latest services and support information for all locations, go to

http://www.appliedbiosystems.com, then click the link for Support.

At the Support page, you can:

•Search through frequently asked questions (FAQs)

•Submit a question directly to Technical Support

•Order Applied Biosystems user documents, MSDSs, certificates of analysis,

and other related documents

•Download PDF documents

•Obtain information about customer training

•Download software updates and patches

In addition, the Support page provides access to worldwide telephone and fax

numbers to contact Applied Biosystems Technical Support and Sales facilities.

Chapter 3: Introduction to the MagMAX™ Express 96

Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Manual; Rev. 1.5; January 2011 13

3 Introduction to the MagMAX™ Express 96

3.1 Intended use

The MagMAX™ Express 96 magnetic particle processor (Fig. 3.1) is intended for

professional research by trained personnel. The instrument is intended for

automated transfer and processing of magnetic particles in a microplate scale.

Use for self-testing is excluded. It is recommended that Good Laboratory

Practices (GLP) are followed to guarantee reliable analyses.

Refer to Chapter 8 Technical Specifications.

3.2 Principle of operation

The MagMAX™ Express 96 magnetic particle processor (Fig. 3.1) is designed

for automated transfer and processing of magnetic particles in microplate

format.

The technology of the MagMAX™ Express 96 system is based on the use of

magnetic rods covered with a disposable, specially designed tip comb and

plates. The instrument functions without any dispensing or aspiration parts or

devices.

Samples and reagents including magnetic particles are dispensed into the plates

according to the corresponding instructions. The protocol that is selected by

the user via the keypad and display have already been preloaded into the on-

board software. KingFisher PC software can be used to create and run proto-

cols.

Fig. 3.1 MagMAX™ Express 96 magnetic particle processor

3.3 Advantages of processing magnetic particles with MagMAX™ Express 96

The MagMAX™ Express 96 magnetic particle processor provides several

advantages relating mainly to the principle of operation in that it:

•Enables automation of complicated manual steps

•Enables simultaneous processing and purification

•Incubation is enhanced due to the heating option

•Enables concentration of the sample during processing

•Facilitates a good collection of bead-bound sample due to the efficiency of

the magnet

•Enables a quicker reaction and a more efficient wash due to the

simultaneous shaking during incubation and washing

•No carryover

•No cross contamination

•Facilitates the whole processing with the aid of an internal program/

KingFisher Software.

Chapter 4: Functional Description

Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Manual; Rev. 1.5; January 2011 14

4 Functional Description

4.1 Instrument layout

4.1.1 Front view

1. Display

2. Keypad

3. Loading station

4. Heating block

5. Interchangeable MagMAX™ Express 96 head

6. Shield plate

7. Turntable

8. Plate station (1 – 8)

Fig. 4.1 MagMAX™ Express 96 front view without see-through lid

1. See-through lid

2. Sliding door

Fig. 4.2 MagMAX™ Express 96 front view with see-through lid and plates

2

6

5

1 4

2

1

3

8

7

Chapter 4: Functional Description

Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Manual; Rev. 1.5; January 2011 15

4.1.2 Back / Side view

1. Cooling-air inlet

2. Type label

3. USB port (not in use)

4. Ethernet (not in use)

5. Serial port RS-232C

6. Warning marking

7. Mains power supply connector

8. ON/OFF switch

9. Cooling-air outlet

Fig. 4.3 MagMAX™ Express 96 back view

Fig. 4.4 MagMAX™ Express 96 side view

1 5 7 8 9

3 4 6

2

Chapter 4: Functional Description

Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Manual; Rev. 1.5; January 2011 16

4.2 MagMAX™ Express 96 magnetic particle processor

The MagMAX™ Express 96 (Fig. 4.5) has room for eight plates. The tip combs

are compatible with the plates. During the individual steps, the plates are kept

stationary, and the only moving assembly is the processing head with tip comb

and magnetic rods. The head consists of two vertically moving platforms. One

is needed for the magnetic rods (96 pieces) and the other one for the plastic tip

comb (Fig. 5.15).

Up to eight plates can be simultaneously on the turntable. However, during one

sample processing, the protocol enables the use of more than eight plates in

total. One tip comb contains 96 tips used for processing 96 samples at a time.

Before starting the magnetic particle processing via the keypad and display, the

samples and reagents are dispensed into the plates and the tip comb is placed

onto a MagMAX™ Express 96 plate, from which it is automatically loaded. The

plates are placed onto the turntable into the corresponding plate stations

according to the protocol instructions. During the operation, the sliding door

can be closed or open (Fig. 4.2) or the whole see-through lid can be absent. The

closed door protects the processing against environmental contamination.

The operating principle employed is MPP (inverse magnetic particle processing)

technology (Fig. 4.6). Rather than moving the liquids, the magnetic particles are

moved from plate to plate containing specific reagents, in contrast to the

external magnet method. Magnetic particles are transferred with the aid of

magnetic rods covered with a disposable, specially designed plastic tip comb.

Fig. 4.5 MagMAX™ Express 96 magnetic particle processor

Chapter 4: Functional Description

Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Manual; Rev. 1.5; January 2011 17

4.3 Principle of magnetic particle processing

Fig. 4.6 Inverse magnetic particle processing

4.4 Working with a magnetic rod

Working with magnetic particles can be divided into five separate processes:

•collecting magnetic particles

•releasing magnetic particles

•washing magnetic particles

•incubation

•concentration

4.4.1 Collecting magnetic particles

During the collection of the magnetic particles, the magnetic rod is fully inside

the tip. The magnetic rods together with the tip comb move slowly up and

down in the plate and the magnetic particles are collected onto the edge of the

tips. The magnetic rods together with the tip comb, having collected the

magnetic particles, can be lifted out of the plate and transferred into the next

plate.

4.4.2 Releasing magnetic particles

After collection of the magnetic particles, the magnetic rods together with the

tip comb are lifted from the plate, the magnetic rods are lifted off and the tip

comb is lowered into the next plate containing a reagent.

Magnetic particles are released by moving the tip comb up and down several

times at considerably high speed until all the particles have been mixed with the

substance in the next reaction.

Chapter 4: Functional Description

Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Manual; Rev. 1.5; January 2011 18

4.4.3 Washing magnetic particles

Washing the magnetic particles is a frequent and an important processing

phase. Washing is a combination of the release and collection processes in a

plate filled with washing solution.

To maximize washing efficiency, the magnetic rods together with the tip comb

are designed to have minimized liquid-carrying properties.

4.4.4 Incubation

To keep the magnetic particle suspension evenly mixed in long-running

reactions, the tip comb can be moved up and down in the solution.

4.4.5 Changing the volume during the magnetic particle processing

The volume of the first plate can be larger than the volume of the next plate,

and this is used for concentration purposes (see Fig. 4.7 below).

Fig. 4.7 A concentration step during magnetic particle processing

Chapter 5: Installation

Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Manual; Rev. 1.5; January 2011 19

5 Installation

5.1 What to do upon delivery

5.1.1 How to unpack

Move the packed instrument to its site of operation. Unpack the MagMAX™

Express 96 instrument and accessories carefully with the arrows on the

transport package pointing upwards. The following notes and instructions are

sent with the instrument and are immediately available when you open the

package:

•the packing instructions/packing list

•the MagMAX™ Express 96 Feedback Form

•the Warranty Certificate card

•the MagMAX™ Express 96 User Manual/Quick Reference Guide

Note: Do not touch or loosen any screws or parts other than those specifically

designated in the instructions. Doing so might cause misalignment and

will void the instrument warranty.

Warning: The MagMAX™ Express 96 weighs approximately 28 kg [62 lbs.] without

the transport package and should be lifted with care. It is recommended

that two persons lift the instrument together, taking the proper

precautions to avoid injury.

To lift the instrument, put your fingers under the bottom on either sides and lift

it with your back straight, while another person is helping offset the weight.

Retain the original packaging for future transportation. The packaging is

designed to assure safe transport and minimize transit damage. Use of

alternative packaging materials may invalidate the warranty. Also retain all

instrument-related documentation provided by the manufacturer for future use.

5.1.2 Checking delivery for completeness

Check the enclosed packing list against order. If any parts are missing, contact

your local Applied Biosystems representative or Applied Biosystems.

5.1.3 Checking for damage during transport

Visually inspect the transport package, the instrument and the accessories for

any possible transport damage.

If the carton has been damaged in transit, it is particularly important that you

retain it for inspection by the carrier in case there has also been damage to the

instrument.

Visually check all interconnections in the basic instrument. Check that there are

no loose parts inside the instrument.

If any parts are damaged, contact your local Applied Biosystems representative

or Applied Biosystems.

5.1.4 Environmental requirements

When you set up your MagMAX™ Express 96, avoid sites of operation with

excess dust, vibrations, strong magnetic fields, direct sunlight, draft, excessive

moisture or large temperature fluctuations.

Chapter 5: Installation

Applied Biosystems MagMAX™ Express 96 User Manual; Rev. 1.5; January 2011 20

•Make sure the working area is flat, dry, clean and vibration-proof and leave

additional room for cables, lids, etc.

•Make sure the ambient air is clean and free of corrosive vapors, smoke and

dust.

•Make sure the ambient temperature range is between +10°C (50°F) and

+40°C (104°F).

•Make sure relative humidity is between 10% and 80% (non-condensing).

Leave sufficient space (at least 10 cm) at both sides and at the back/side of the

unit to allow adequate air circulation.

The MagMAX™ Express 96 does not produce operating noise at a level that

would be harmful. No sound level measurements are required after installation.

Note: Do not operate the instrument in an environment where potentially

damaging liquids or gases are present.

5.1.5 Things to avoid

Do not smoke, eat or drink while using the MagMAX™ Express 96. Wash your

hands thoroughly after handling test fluids. Observe normal laboratory

procedures for handling potentially dangerous samples. Use proper protective

clothing. Use disposable gloves. Be sure the working area is well-ventilated.

Never spill fluids in or on the equipment.

Note: The MagMAX™ Express 96 should not be kept in close proximity to

magnetic tapes, computer discs or other magnetic storage systems,

such as credit cards, as these can be damaged by the strong magnetic

field of the MagMAX™ Express 96 heads.

Do not hold the MagMAX™ Express 96 heads close to a PC display,

since this may cause damage to the display.

Do not use metal tools when handling MagMAX™ Express 96 heads.

Warning: This product contains very strong permanent magnets.

People wearing a pacemaker or metallic prostheses should not use this

product. A pacemaker or prostheses may be affected or damaged if it

comes in close contact with a strong magnetic field.

5.1.6 Technical prerequisites

Place the instrument on a normal laboratory bench. The net weight of the unit is

approx. 28 kg [62 lbs.].

The instrument operates at voltages of 100 – 240 Vac and the frequency range

50/60 Hz.

5.2 Setups before you put the instrument into operation

5.2.1 How to release the transport locks

Note: THERE ARE TWO TRANSPORT LOCKS PRESENT (Fig. 5.1): the tip comb

holder transport lock, and the heating block transport lock. Remove both

the transport locks. Ensure that the transport locks have been released

before you put the instrument into operation.

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