Epoch 2 Operators Manual - 1331002 Rev E

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Microplate Spectrophotometer

Epoch 2 TM

Operator’s Manual
 
Epoch™ 2
Microplate Spectrophotometer
Operator's Manual

BioTek® Instruments, Inc.


May 2015
© 2015
PN 1331000 
Revision E
ii | Notices

Notices
BioTek® Instruments, Inc.
Highland Park, P.O. Box 998
Winooski, Vermont 05404-0998 USA

All Rights Reserved


© 2015, BioTek® Instruments, Incorporated. No part of this publication may be reproduced,
transcribed, or transmitted in any form, or by any means electronic or mechanical, including
photocopying and recording, for any purpose other than the purchaser’s use without written
permission of BioTek Instruments, Inc.

Trademarks
BioTek® is a registered trademark, and Epoch™, Gen5™, BioStack™, Take3™, and Take3Trio™
are trademarks of BioTek Instruments, Inc. BioCell™ is a trademark of BioTek Instruments and
is patented under U.S. patent number 5,963,318.

Microsoft®, Windows ®, and Excel® are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

Bluetooth® is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG.

All other trademarks are the property of their respective holders.

Restrictions and Liabilities


Information in this document is subject to change and does not represent a commitment by
BioTek Instruments, Inc. Changes made to the information in this document will be
incorporated in new editions of the publication. No responsibility is assumed by BioTek for the
use or reliability of software or equipment that is not supplied by BioTek or its affiliated
dealers.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Contents| iii

Contents

Notices ii
Contents iii
Contact Information vi
Revision History vii
Document Conventions viii
Intended Use Statement ix
Quality Control ix
Warranty and Product Registration ix
Repackaging and Shipping ix
Warnings x
Hazards x
Precautions xi
CE Mark xiii
Electromagnetic Interference and Susceptibility xiv
User Safety xv
Safety Symbols xvi
Introduction 1
Product Description 2
Package Contents 3
Optional Accessories 3
Product Support and Service 4
Installation 7
Product Registration 8
1: Unpack and Inspect the Reader 8
2: Select an Appropriate Location 8
3: Remove the Shipping Hardware 9
4: Install the Power Supply 10
5: Install the Cuvette Holder 11

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


iv | Contents

Installation for Models without a Touch Screen 12


6: Connect the Host Computer 12
7: Install Gen5 on the Host PC 12
8: Install the USB Driver 12
9: Turn on the Reader 12
10: Establish Communication 13
11: Run a System Test 14
Installation for Models with a Touch Screen 16
6: Turn on the Touch Screen 16
7: Turn on the Reader 16
8: Turn on the Mouse 17
9: Run a System Test 18
Operational/Performance Qualification 19
Repackaging and Shipping Instructions 20
Getting Started 27
Gen5 Software 28
Using the Touch Screen 29
Using Gen5 TS 32
Using a Mouse with the Touch Screen 34
Recommendations for Optimum Performance 39
Preventive Maintenance 41
Preventive Maintenance Overview 42
Warnings and Precautions 42
Routine Cleaning Procedure 43
Clean the Touch Screen 44
Decontamination 45
Instrument Qualification 47
Instrument Qualification Overview 48
IQ/OQ/PQ Description 48
Recommended Qualification Schedule 49

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Contents| v

System Test 50
Absorbance Plate Test 51
Absorbance Liquid Tests 56
Cuvette Test 64
Specifications 69
General Specifications 70
Absorbance Specifications 71
Error Codes 75
Error Codes Overview 76
Error Codes 76

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


vi | Contact Information

Contact Information
BioTek® Instruments, Inc.
Highland Park, P.O. Box 998
Winooski, Vermont 05404-0998 USA

Global Service and Support


BioTek instrument service and repair is available worldwide at one of BioTek's
International Service Centers and in the field at your location. To arrange for
service or repair of your instrument, contact the office nearest you; visit
www.biotek.com for up-to-date contact information. For customer service, sales,
and technical assistance, refer to the information below.

Customer Service and Sales


Internet: www.biotek.com
Phone: 888-451-5171 (toll-free in the U.S.)
802-655-4740 (outside the U.S.)
Fax: 802-655-7941
Email: [email protected]

Service/Technical Assistance Center (TAC)


Phone: 800-242-4685 (toll-free in the U.S.)
802-655-4740 (outside the U.S.)
Fax: 802-654-0638
Email: [email protected]

European Coordination Center/Authorized European


Representative
BioTek® Instruments GmbH
Kocherwaldstrasse 34
D-74177 Bad Friedrichshall
Germany
Internet: www.biotek.de
Phone: +49 (0) 7136 9680
Fax: +49 (0) 7136 968 111
Email: [email protected]

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Revision History| vii

Revision History
Rev Date Changes

A 7/2014 Initial release

Updated and clarified unpacking and packing


B 8/2014
instructions.

Preface: Updated CE directive editions


Chapter 1, Introduction: Added note to Product
Description that the tablet's sole purposes is to
control the instrument and that the user is
responsible for protecting it against viruses if it is
connected to external or internal networks; added
C 2/2015 the Bluetooth mouse to the Package Contents.
Chapter 2, Installation: Added new step to turn on
the mouse, if applicable.
Chapter 3, Getting Started: Added section about
using the Bluetooth mouse; added note to
Recommendations for Optimum Performance
about the use of acids, corrosives, and solvents.

Preface: Updated the global contact information


for some offices
Chapter 2, Installation: Updated 2: Select an
Appropriate Location to include the temperature
ranges for both touch screen and non-touch
screen models.
D 4/2015 Appendix A, Specifications: Updated the operating
temperature range to differentiate between touch
screen and non-touch screen models, added note
that for incubation setpoints > 60ºC, the ambient
room temperature must be at least 22ºC;
removed mention of the use of the Innovative
Instruments Inc. temperature test plate.
Preface: Updated contact info to direct users to
biotek.com for up-to-date info on BioTek offices.
E 5/2015 Appendix A, Specifications: Changed the Power
Consumption specification to 120 Watts
maximum.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


viii | Document Conventions

Document Conventions

This icon calls attention to important safety notes.

A Warning indicates the potential for bodily harm and tells you how to
Warning!
avoid the problem.

A Caution indicates potential damage to the instrument and tells you


Caution
how to avoid the problem.

Note Bold text is primarily used for emphasis.

Topics that apply only to specific Epoch 2 models are preceded by a


italic notice in italic, for example, Applies only to Epoch 2 models with
cuvette.

This icon calls attention to important information.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Intended Use Statement| ix

Intended Use Statement


The Epoch 2 is a UV-Vis monochromator-based absorbance reader. Read modes
include endpoint, kinetics, spectral scanning, and well area scanning. Incubation,
shaking, and robot capability are standard features. A cuvette port and an
embedded touch screen interface are also available. Gen5 software is used for data
collection and analysis.
If the instrument has an "IVD" label, it may be used for clinical and nonclinical
purposes, including research and development. If there is no such label, the
instrument may be used only for research and development or other nonclinical
purposes.

Quality Control
It is considered good laboratory practice to run laboratory samples according to
instructions and specific recommendations included in the assay package insert for
the test to be conducted. Failure to conduct Quality Control checks could result in
erroneous test data.

Warranty and Product Registration


Please take a moment to review the warranty information that shipped with your
product. Please also register your product with BioTek to ensure that you receive
important information updates about the product(s) you have purchased.
You can register online through the Customer Resource Center (CRC) at
www.biotek.com or by calling 888-451-5171 or 802-655-4740.

Repackaging and Shipping


If you need to ship the instrument to BioTek for service or repair,
contact BioTek for a service authorization number, and be sure to use
the original packing materials. Other forms of commercially available
packaging are not recommended and can void the warranty. If the
original packing materials have been damaged or lost, contact BioTek
for replacement packing.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


x | Warnings

Warnings
Operate the instrument on a level, stable surface away from excessive
humidity.

Bright sunlight or strong incandescent light can reduce the linear


performance range of the instrument.
Measurement values may be affected by extraneous particles (such as
dust) in the microplate wells. A clean work area is necessary to ensure
accurate readings.
When operated in a safe environment according to the instructions in this
document, there are no known hazards associated with the instrument.
However, the operator should be aware of certain situations that could
result in serious injury; these may vary depending on the instrument
model. See Hazards and Precautions.

Hazards
The following hazards are provided to help avoid injury:
Warning! Power Rating. The instrument’s power supply or power
cord must be connected to a power receptacle that provides voltage
and current within the specified rating for the system. Use of an
incompatible power receptacle may produce electrical shock and fire
hazards.
Warning! Electrical Grounding. Never use a plug adapter to
connect primary power to the external power supply. Use of an
adapter disconnects the utility ground, creating a severe shock
hazard. Always connect the power cord directly to an appropriate
receptacle with a functional ground.
Warning! Service. Only qualified technical personnel should
perform service procedures on internal components.
Warning! Accessories. Only accessories that meet the
manufacturer's specifications shall be used with the instrument.
Warning! Lubricants. Do not apply lubricants to the microplate
carrier or carrier track. Lubricant on the carrier mechanism or
components in the carrier compartment will attract dust and other
particles, which may obstruct the carrier path and cause the
instrument to produce an error.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Precautions| xi

Warning! Liquids. Avoid spilling liquids on the instrument; fluid


seepage into internal components creates a potential for shock
hazard. If a spill occurs while a program is running, abort the
program and turn off the instrument. Wipe up all spills immediately.
Do not operate the instrument if internal components have been
exposed to fluid. Contact BioTek TAC for assistance.
Warning! Unspecified Use. Failure to operate the equipment
according to the guidelines and safeguards specified in this manual
could result in a hazardous condition.
Warning! Software Quality Control. The operator must follow the
manufacturer’s assay package insert when modifying software
parameters and establishing reading methods. Failure to conduct
quality control checks could result in erroneous test data.
Warning! Reader Data Reduction Protocol. No limits are applied
to the raw measurement data. All information exported via computer
control must be thoroughly analyzed by the operator.
Warning! Internal Voltage. Always turn off the power switch and
unplug the power supply before cleaning the outer surface of the
instrument.

Warning! Potential Biohazards. Some assays or specimens may


pose a biohazard. This hazard is noted by the symbol shown here.
Adequate safety precautions should be taken as outlined in the
assay’s package insert. Always wear safety glasses and appropriate
protective equipment, such as chemical-resistant rubber gloves and
apron.

Precautions
The following precautions are provided to help avoid damage to the instrument:
Caution: Service. The instrument should be serviced by BioTek-
authorized service personnel. Only qualified technical personnel should
perform service procedures on internal components.

Caution: Spare Parts. Only approved spare parts should be used for
maintenance. The use of unapproved spare parts and accessories may
result in a loss of warranty and potentially impair instrument
performance or cause damage to the instrument.
Caution: Environmental Conditions. Do not expose the system to
temperature extremes. For proper operation, ambient temperatures
should remain within the range listed in Appendix A, Specifications.
Performance may be adversely affected if temperatures fluctuate
above or below this range. Storage temperature limits are broader.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


xii | Precautions

Caution: Sodium Hypochlorite. Do not expose any part of the


instrument to the recommended diluted sodium hypochlorite solution
(bleach) for more than 20 minutes. Prolonged contact may damage the
instrument surfaces. Be certain to rinse and thoroughly wipe all
surfaces.
Caution: Power Supply. Use only the power supply shipped with the
instrument. Operate this power supply within the range of line voltages
listed on it.
Caution: Carrier Shipping Bracket. The microplate carrier shipping
bracket must be removed before operating the instrument and
reinstalled before repackaging the instrument for shipment.
Caution: Disposal. Dispose of the instrument according to Directive
2012/19/EU, “on waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE)” or
local ordinances.
Caution: Warranty. Failure to follow preventive maintenance
protocols may void the warranty. See Chapter 4, Preventive
Maintenance.
Caution: Electromagnetic Environment. Per IEC 61326-2-6 it is the
user’s responsibility to ensure that a compatible electromagnetic
environment for this instrument is provided and maintained in order
that the device will perform as intended.
Caution: Electromagnetic Compatibility. Do not use this device in
close proximity to sources of strong electromagnetic radiation (e.g.,
unshielded intentional RF sources), because these may interfere with
the proper operation.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


CE Mark| xiii

CE Mark
Based on the testing described below and information
contained herein, this instrument bears the CE mark

Refer to the Declaration of Conformity for more specific information.

Directive 2014/30/EU: Electromagnetic Compatibility

Emissions—Class A
The system has been type-tested by an independent, accredited testing laboratory
and found to meet the requirements of EN 61326-1: Class A for Radiated Emissions
and Line Conducted Emissions.
Verification of compliance was conducted to the limits and methods of EN 55011 –
(CISPR 11) Class A. In a domestic environment it may cause radio interference, in
which case you may need to mitigate the interference.

Immunity
The system has been type-tested by an independent, accredited testing laboratory
and found to meet the requirements of EN 61326-1 and EN 61326-2-6 for Immunity.
Verification of compliance was conducted to the limits and methods of the
following:
EN 61000-4-2, Electrostatic Discharge
EN 61000-4-3, Radiated EM Fields
EN 61000-4-4, Electrical Fast Transient/Burst
EN 61000-4-5, Surge Immunity
EN 61000-4-6, Conducted Disturbances from RFI
EN 61000-4-11, Voltage Dips, Short Interruptions and Variations

Directive 2014/35/EU Low Voltage (Safety)


The system has been type-tested by an independent testing laboratory and was
found to meet the requirements of this Directive. Verification of compliance was
conducted to the limits and methods of the following:
EN 61010-1. "Safety requirement for electrical equipment for measurement, control
and laboratory use. Part 1, General requirements."
EN 61010-2-081. “Particular requirements for automatic and semi-automatic
laboratory equipment for analysis and other purposes.”
EN 61010-2-010. “Particular requirements for laboratory equipment for the heating
of materials.“

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


xiv | Electromagnetic Interference and Susceptibility

Directive 2012/19/EU: Waste Electrical and Electronic


Equipment
Disposal Notice: Dispose of the instrument according to Directive 2012/19/EU,
“on waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE)” or local ordinances.

Directive 98/79/EC: In Vitro Diagnostics (if labeled for this


use)
l Product registration with competent authorities
l EN 61010-2-101. “Particular requirements for in vitro diagnostic (IVD)
medical equipment.”
l Traceability to the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology
(NIST).

Electromagnetic Interference and Susceptibility

USA FCC CLASS A
RADIO AND TELEVISION INTERFERENCE
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the
equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates,
uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause
harmful interference, in which case the user will be required to correct the
interference at their own expense.
In order to maintain compliance with FCC regulations, shielded cables must be
used with this equipment. Operation with non-approved equipment or unshielded
cables is likely to result in interference to radio and television reception.

Canadian Department of Communications Class A


This digital apparatus does not exceed Class A limits for radio emissions from
digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadians
Department of Communications.
Le present appareil numerique n'emet pas du bruits radioelectriques depassant les limites
applicables aux appareils numerique de la Class A prescrites dans le Reglement sur le
brouillage radioelectrique edicte par le ministere des Communications du Canada.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


User Safety| xv

User Safety
This device has been type-tested by an independent laboratory and found to meet
the requirements of the following:
l Underwriters Laboratories UL 61010-1, “Safety requirements for electrical
equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use; Part 1: General
requirements.”
l Canadian Standards Association CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 61010-1, “Safety
requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control and
laboratory use; Part 1: General requirements.”
l EN 61010 Standards, see CE Mark starting on page xiii.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


xvi | Safety Symbols

Safety Symbols
Some of the following symbols may appear on the instrument or accessories:

Alternating current Warning, risk of crushing or


pinching
Courant alternatif
Attention, risque d'écrasement
Wechselstrom et pincement
Corriente alterna Warnen, Gefahr des
Corrente alternata Zerquetschens und Klemmen

Precaución, riesgo del


machacamiento y sejeción

Attenzione, rischio di
schiacciare ed intrappolarsi

Direct current Warning, hot surface

Courant continu Attention, surface chaude

Gleichstrom Vorsicht, heiße Oberfläche

Corriente continua Precaución, superficie caliente

Corrente continua Attenzione, superfice calda

Both direct and Laser radiation: Do not stare


alternating current into beam

Courant continu et Rayonnement laser: Ne pas


courant alternatif regarder dans le faisceau

Gleich - und Laserstrahlung: nicht in den


Wechselstrom strahl blicken

Corriente continua y Radiación de laser: No mire


corriente alterna fijamente al rayo

Corrente continua e Radiazione di laser: Non stare


corrente alternata nel fascio

Earth ground terminal Warning, potential biohazards

Borne de terre Attention, risques biologiques


potentiels
Erde (Betriebserde)
Warnung! Moegliche
Borne de tierra biologische Giftsoffe
Terra (di Atención, riesgos biológicos
funzionamento)
Attenziones, rischio biologico

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Safety Symbols| xvii

Protective conductor Caution (refer to accompanying


terminal documents)

Borne de terre de Attention (voir documents


protection d'accompanement)

Schultzleiteranschluss Achtung siehe Begleitpapiere

Borne de tierra de Atención (vease los


protección documentos incluidos)

Terra di protezione Attenzione, consultare la doc


annessa

On (Supply) Consult instructions for use

Marche (alimentation) Consulter la notice d'emploi

Ein (Verbindung mit Gebrauchsanweisung beachten


dem Netz)
Consultar las instrucciones de
Conectado uso

Chiuso Consultare le istruzioni per uso

Off (Supply) In vitro diagnostic medical


device
Arrêt (alimentation)
Dispositif médical de diagnostic
Aus (Trennung vom in vitro
Netz)
Medizinisches In-Vitro
Desconectado Diagnostikum
Aperto (sconnessione Dispositivo médico de
dalla rete di diagnóstico in vitro
alimentazione)
Dispositivo medico diagnostico
in vitro

Warning, risk of Separate collection for


electric shock electrical and electronic
equipment
Attention, risque de
choc électrique Les équipements électriques et
électroniques font l'objet d'une
Gefährliche elektrische collecte sélective
schlag
Getrennte Sammlung von
Precaución, riesgo de Elektro- und Elektronikgeräten
sacudida eléctrica
Recogida selectiva de aparatos
Attenzione, rischio di eléctricos y electrónicos
scossa elettrica
Raccolta separata delle
apparecchiature elettriche ed
elettroniche

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


xviii | Safety Symbols

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Chapter 1

Introduction

This chapter introduces the Epoch 2, describes its hardware


and software features, and provides contact information for
technical assistance.

Product Description 2
Package Contents 3
Optional Accessories 3
Product Support and Service 4
2 | Chapter 1: Introduction

Product Description
Epoch 2 is a compact monochromator-based absorbance reader for 6- to 384-well
microplates and 2 µL micro-volume measurements from 200–999 nm. Read modes
include endpoint, kinetics, spectral scanning, and well area scanning. Incubation to
65°C, shaking, and robot capability are standard features. Gen5 software is used for
data collection and analysis, as well as reporting and exporting. The reader is
available in four models:
l EPOCH2: Contains the features described above, with no onboard display.
The reader is controlled using Gen5 software installed on a host PC.
l EPOCH2T: Contains the features described above, with a 10-inch color
touch screen interface and onboard Gen5 software.
l EPOCH2C: Adds a cuvette port to the EPOCH2.
l EPOCH2TC: Adds a cuvette port to the EPOCH2T.

Absorbance reads are performed using a monochromator. The xenon lamp allows
for both UV and visible light measurements. The monochromator provides
wavelength selection from 200–999 nm in 1-nm increments.
Temperature may be controlled from 4°C over ambient to 65°C. Internal plate
shaking, with both linear and orbital modes, is supported to ensure that reagents
are properly mixed prior to reading.
The reader accommodates 6-, 12-, 24-, 48-, 96-, and 384-well microplates with 128 x
86 mm geometry, BioTek’s patented BioCell quartz vessel for 1-cm measurements,
and the BioTek Take3 and Take3 Trio Multi-Volume Plates. The cuvette port holds
one standard-size cuvette.
All models are robot accessible and compatible with the BioTek BioStack
Microplate Stacker. Most Gen5 editions support OLE automation to facilitate
integration into an automated system.

Use of labware other than those described here can result in positioning
errors during program execution.

The Epoch 2 models with a touch screen are controlled by a tablet


computer. The tablet's sole purpose is to control the instrument. Using
the tablet for any other purpose that causes its failure will void the
warranty.

BioTek strongly advises that this tablet not be connected to the


Internet for security reasons. The customer is responsible for all virus
prevention if connection to external or internal networks is allowed.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Package Contents | 3

BioTek does not recommend the use of one brand of USB peripheral
device over another. If you choose to use a USB device with the Epoch
2, it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct drivers to
support the device.

See the Specifications for performance and technical specifications.

Package Contents
Package contents and part numbers are subject to change. Please contact BioTek
Customer Care with any questions.

Item Part #

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual 1331000

Power supply 76077

varies according to
Power cord
country of use

USB cable 75108

Phillips screwdriver 01188

Cuvette holder (if applicable) 1330504

Take3/Take3 Trio (if included) TAKE3/TAKE3TRIO

Gen5 TS on a USB flash drive (includes USB driver software


GEN5TSE2
and Gen5 Getting Started Guide)

HP Slim Bluetooth mouse (for touch screen models) 01995

Optional Accessories

Accessory availability and part numbers are subject to change. Please


contact BioTek Customer Care if you have any questions or visit
www.biotek.com and use the Accessories search tool.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


4 | Chapter 1: Introduction

Item Part #

7-filter Absorbance Test Plate for


7260522
absorbance measurement testing

Epoch 2 Product Qualification (IQ-OQ-


1330520
PQ) package

4690011 (which includes adapter plate


Adapter for cuvette qualification test
PN 7302030)

Take3 Micro-Volume Plate TAKE3

Take3 Trio Micro-Volume Plate TAKE3TRIO

BioCell quartz vessel for 1-cm


wavelength fixed pathlength absorbance 7272051
measurements

BioCell adapter plate for containing up to


7270512
eight BioCells

The Epoch 2 is compatible with the BioStack 2WR, BioStack 3WR, and BioStack 4
Microplate Stackers. The stackers rapidly and systematically transfer a “stack” of
microplates to and from the instrument’s microplate carrier. Contact BioTek or visit
our website to learn more.

Solutions for Liquid Tests Part #

Absorbance Liquid Test Solutions:

BioTek Wetting Agent Solution (PN 7773002) 7773002

BioTek QC Check Solution No. 1 (25 mL) or 7120779


BioTek QC Check Solution No. 1 (125 mL) 7120782

β-NADH Powder (β-Nicotinamide Adenine Sigma #N6785-10VL (or


Dinucleotide, Reduced Form) BioTek PN 98233)

Phosphate-Buffered Saline (PBS) Tablets (pH 7.2–


Sigma #P4417
7.6)

Product Support and Service

See Contact Information on page vi for contact information for BioTek


Global Service and Support.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Product Support and Service | 5

Technical Assistance Center (TAC)


If your instrument or software fail to function properly, if you have questions
about how to use or maintain our products, or if you need to send an instrument
to BioTek for service or repair, please contact our Technical Assistance Center
(“TAC”).
TAC is open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM (EST), Monday through Friday, excluding
standard U.S. holidays.
n Phone: (800) 242-4685 or (802) 655-4740
n Fax: (802) 654-0638
n E-Mail: [email protected]
n Web: www.biotek.com

Please be prepared to provide the following information:


l Your name and company information, along with a daytime phone or fax
number, and/or an e-mail address
l The product name, model, and serial number (the serial number is located
on the right side of the reader)
l The onboard software part number and basecode version (available via
Gen5 for the Epoch 2 by selecting System > Instrument
Configuration, select Epoch 2, then click View/Modify > Setup, select
the Basecode tab, and click Get Basecode Information)
l For troubleshooting assistance or instruments needing repair, the specific
steps that produce your problem and any error codes displayed in Gen5
(see also Appendix B, Error Codes)
l A text file of the diagnostic history of the instrument (available via Gen5 by
selecting System > Diagnostics > History, then selecting the
appropriate file and clicking Export)

Running a system test when a problem occurs provides valuable


information for TAC. When the test is complete, click Save As to save a
text file of the system test report, which can be emailed to TAC.

If you need to return an instrument to BioTek for service or repair, please contact
the TAC for a service authorization number and the shipping address. Repackage
the instrument according to the instructions at the end of Chapter 2, Installation.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


6 | Chapter 1: Introduction

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Chapter 2

Installation

This chapter includes instructions for unpacking and setting up


the Epoch 2. Instructions are also included for preparing the
reader for shipment.

Product Registration 8
1: Unpack and Inspect the Reader 8
2: Select an Appropriate Location 8
3: Remove the Shipping Hardware 9
4: Install the Power Supply 10
5: Install the Cuvette Holder 11
Installation for Models without a Touch Screen 12
6: Connect the Host Computer 12
7: Install Gen5 on the Host PC 12
8: Install the USB Driver 12
9: Turn on the Reader 12
10: Establish Communication 13
11: Run a System Test 14
Installation for Models with a Touch Screen 16
6: Turn on the Touch Screen 16
7: Turn on the Reader 16
8: Turn on the Mouse 17
9: Run a System Test 18
Operational/Performance Qualification 19
Repackaging and Shipping Instructions 20
8 | Chapter 2: Installation

Product Registration
Please register your product(s) with BioTek to ensure that you receive important
information and updates about the product(s) you have purchased.
Register online through BioTek’s Customer Resource Center (CRC) at
www.biotek.com or by contacting BioTek Customer Care at (888) 451-5171 or (802)
655-4740.

1: Unpack and Inspect the Reader


Save all packaging materials. If you need to ship the reader to BioTek for
repair or replacement, you must use the original materials. Using other forms
of commercially available packaging, or failing to follow the repackaging
instructions, may void your warranty.

During the unpacking process, inspect the packaging, reader, and accessories
for shipping damage. If the reader is damaged, notify the carrier and your
BioTek representative. Keep the shipping boxes and the packaging materials
for the carrier's inspection. BioTek will arrange for repair or replacement
immediately.

1. Open the shipping box, remove the accessories tray, and then remove the
instrument from the box and place it on a level, stable surface.
2. Place the packaging materials back into the shipping box for reuse if the
instrument needs to be shipped again.

2: Select an Appropriate Location


Install the reader on a level, stable surface. For models without a touch screen,
select an area where ambient temperatures between 18°C (71.6°F) and 40°C (104°F)
can be maintained. For models with a touch screen, the ambient temperature must
be between 18°C (71.6°F) and 30°C (86°F).
The reader is sensitive to extreme environmental conditions. Avoid the following:
l Excessive humidity. Condensation directly on the sensitive electronic
circuits can cause the instrument to fail internal self-checks. The humidity
must be in the range of 10–85%, non-condensing.
l Excessive ambient light. Bright light may affect the reader’s optics and
readings, reducing its linear range.
l Dust. Readings may be affected by extraneous particles (such as dust) in
the microplate wells. A clean work area is necessary to ensure accurate
readings.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


3: Remove the Shipping Hardware | 9

If you are installing the BioStack for operation with the Epoch 2, you may
wish to seat the instruments in their aligning plates now. Refer to the
BioStack Operator's Manual for more information.

3: Remove the Shipping Hardware

Remove and store all shipping hardware before you turn on the reader.

1. Using the supplied screwdriver, remove the shipping screws and shipping
bracket from the carrier.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


10 | Chapter 2: Installation

2. If equipped, remove the tape covering the cuvette port.


3. Touch screen models only: Remove the protective film from the touch
screen.
4. Store the shipping hardware in a safe place, in case it is needed in the
future.

4: Install the Power Supply


Power Rating. The instrument must be connected to a power receptacle
that provides voltage and current within the specified rating for the
system. Use of an incompatible power receptacle may produce electrical
shock and fire hazards.

Electrical Grounding. Never use a plug adapter to connect primary


power to the instrument. Use of an adapter disconnects the utility ground,
creating a severe shock hazard. Always connect the system power cord
directly to an appropriate receptacle with a functional ground.

1. Connect the power cord to the external power supply.


2. Locate the power inlet on the rear of the reader.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


5: Install the Cuvette Holder | 11

3. Plug the rounded end of the power supply's cord into the power inlet, and
tighten the collar by turning it clockwise.
4. Plug the other end of the power cord into an appropriate power
receptacle.

5: Install the Cuvette Holder


Applies to models with a cuvette port.
Gently insert the cuvette holder into the cuvette port on the front of the reader.
Magnets in the holder will secure the holder in place.

Instructions for installing Epoch 2 models with a touch screen continue


on page 16.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


12 | Chapter 2: Installation

Installation for Models without a Touch Screen

6: Connect the Host Computer

The USB port is located on the rear of the reader.

1. Turn off the computer. If the reader is on, turn it off.


2. Using the supplied USB cable, connect the square end of the cable to the
USB port on the reader.
3. Connect the other end of the cable to an available USB port on the
computer.

7: Install Gen5 on the Host PC


Models without a touch screen are controlled by Gen5 software running on
a host computer. There is a certain sequence of events that must be
followed to ensure that the software is properly installed and configured.
Please follow the instructions provided in Gen5 Getting Started Guide to
install the software.

8: Install the USB Driver

Refer to the instructions that shipped with the Gen5 software to install
the necessary drivers. The driver must be installed on the computer
before you connect the instrument.

9: Turn on the Reader


1. Locate the power on/off switch on the front of the instrument, next to the
carrier eject button. The power on/off switch has a green, internal
LED lamp that is illuminated when the power is on.
2. Turn on the reader. The reader performs a power-up system test. During
the test, the green LED on the power switch flashes. Do not attempt to use
Gen5 to communicate with the reader until the test is finished. When the
test is completed, the reader extends the microplate carrier.

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10: Establish Communication | 13

The carrier eject button, which has a blue LED light, is located to the
right of the reader’s power switch and can be used to extend/retract
the microplate carrier.

If an error occurs during the system test, the reader will beep. Press the carrier
eject button to stop the beeping.

10: Establish Communication


1. On the host PC, start Gen5 and log in if prompted. The default System
Administrator password is admin.
2. From the Gen5 main screen, select System > Instrument
Configuration and click Add.

3. Set the Reader Type to Epoch 2.


4. Perform one of the following steps:
l Select Plug & Play.

An Epoch 2 must be connected via USB to the computer and


turned on to appear in the Available Plug & Play Readers list.

l Set the Com Port to the computer's COM port to which the reader is
connected.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


14 | Chapter 2: Installation

The information can be found via the Windows Control Panel,


under Ports in the Hardware/Device Manager area of System
Properties (e.g., Serial Port (COM5)).

5. To verify that Gen5 can communicate with the instrument, click Test
Comm. If the communication attempt is successful, Gen5 displays a
success message. Return to Gen5’s main screen.

Communication Errors
If the communication attempt is not successful, try the following:
l Is the reader connected to the power supply and turned on?
l Is the communication cable firmly attached to both the reader and the
computer?
l Did you select the correct Reader Type in Gen5?

USB Cable:

l Try a different COM Port.


l Did you install the USB driver software?

If you remain unable to get Gen5 and the reader to communicate with
each other, contact BioTek’s Technical Assistance Center.

11: Run a System Test


Running a system test using Gen5 will confirm that the reader is functioning
properly, or will provide an error code if a problem is detected.

1. Turn on the incubator:


l From the Gen5 main screen, select System > Instrument Control
> Epoch 2.
l Click the Pre-Heating tab.
l Enter a Requested temperature of at least 37°C and click On.

Wait until the incubator temperature reaches the set point before
continuing.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


11: Run a System Test | 15

2. Return to Gen5’s main view and select System > Diagnostics > Run
System Test. If prompted to select a reader, select Epoch 2 and click OK.

The reader ran a "power-up" system test, but that test did not
include verifying that the incubator reaches a set temperature.
Therefore, you will need to run another system test.

3. A message appears, stating that the reader has a pending system test
report. Click OK, then click Cancel .
4. Again, select System > Diagnostics > Run System Test. If prompted
to select a reader, select Epoch 2 and click OK.
5. When the test is completed, a dialog requesting additional information
appears. Enter the information and click OK.
6. The results report appears. Scroll down toward the bottom; the text should
read “SYSTEM TEST PASS.”
l You may wish to print the report and store it with your records.
l The Gen5 software stores system test information in its database; you
can retrieve it at any time.
l You can save the system test report as a text file: click Save As in the
System Test Results dialog.

If an error code is returned, refer to Appendix B and look up the


code. If the problem is something you can fix, do so now and run
another system test. If the problem is something you cannot fix,
or if the test continues to fail, contact BioTek’s Technical
Assistance Center at (800) 242-4685 or (802) 655-4740.

7. Turn off the incubator:


l Select System > Instrument Control > Epoch 2.
l Click the Pre-Heating tab and click Off.
l Return to Gen5’s main view.

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16 | Chapter 2: Installation

Installation for Models with a Touch Screen

The Epoch 2 models with a touch screen are controlled by a tablet


computer. The tablet's sole purpose is to control the instrument. Using
the tablet for any other purpose that causes its failure will void the
warranty.

BioTek strongly advises that this tablet not be connected to the


Internet for security reasons. The customer is responsible for all virus
prevention if connection to external or internal networks is allowed.

6: Turn on the Touch Screen

When you first install the power supply, you must wait a few minutes
before turning on the touch screen to allow it to charge up.

1. Press and hold the power button until the touch screen turns on.
2. When the touch screen is ready, Gen5 TS will open. Communication
between Gen5 TS and the Epoch 2 is established automatically.

7: Turn on the Reader


1. Locate the power on/off switch on the front of the instrument, next to the
carrier eject button. The power on/off switch has a green, internal
LED lamp that is illuminated when the power is on.
2. Turn on the reader. The reader performs a power-up system test. When
the test is completed, the reader extends the microplate carrier.

The carrier eject button, located to the right of the reader’s power
switch, can be used to extend/retract the microplate carrier.

If an error occurs during the system test, the reader will beep. Press the carrier
eject button to stop the beeping.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


8: Turn on the Mouse | 17

8: Turn on the Mouse

Use of a mouse with the Epoch 2 touch screen is optional.

If you plan to use the HP wireless mouse that was supplied with the reader:

1. Turn the mouse's power switch on.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


18 | Chapter 2: Installation

2. Slide the mouse across a nearby horizontal surface. If the pointer on the
touch screen moves in synch with the mouse, proceed to step 9.

If the pointer does not move, or if you plan to use a different wireless mouse, refer
to Using a Mouse with the Touch Screen in Chapter 3.

9: Run a System Test


Running a system test using Gen5 TS will confirm that the reader is functioning
properly, or will provide an error code if a problem is detected.

1. Turn on the incubator:


l From the Gen5 TS main screen, select System > Instrument
Control > Epoch 2.
l Click the Pre-Heating tab.
l Enter a Requested temperature of at least 37°C and click On.

Wait until the incubator temperature reaches the set point before
continuing.

2. Return to Gen5 TS's main view and select System > Diagnostics > Run
System Test.

The reader ran a "power-up" system test, but that test did not
include verifying that the incubator reaches a set temperature.
Therefore, you will need to run another system test.

3. A message appears, stating that the reader has a pending system test
report. Click OK, then click Cancel .
4. Again, select System > Diagnostics > Run System Test. If prompted
to select a reader, select Epoch 2 and click OK.
5. When the test is completed, a dialog requesting additional information
appears. Enter the information and click OK.
6. The results report appears. Scroll down toward the bottom; the text should
read “SYSTEM TEST PASS.”
l The Gen5 TS software stores system test information in its database;
you can retrieve it at any time.
l You can save the report as a text file on a USB stick (F:\ drive) and
store it with your records or transfer it to a PC for printing.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Operational/Performance Qualification | 19

If an error code is returned, refer to Appendix B and look up the


code. If the problem is something you can fix, do so now and run
another system test. If the problem is something you cannot fix,
or if the test continues to fail, contact BioTek’s Technical
Assistance Center at (800) 242-4685 or (802) 655-4740.

7. Turn off the incubator:


l Select System > Instrument Control > Epoch 2.
l Click the Pre-Heating tab and click Off.
l Return to Gen5 TS’s main view.

Operational/Performance Qualification
Your Epoch 2 was fully tested at BioTek prior to shipment and should operate
properly following the successful completion of the installation and setup
procedures described in this chapter.
If you suspect that problems occurred during shipment, if you received the reader
back from BioTek following service or repair, or if regulatory requirements dictate
that Operational/Performance Qualification is necessary, turn to Chapter 5,
Instrument Qualification now to learn about BioTek’s recommended OQ/PQ
procedures for Epoch 2.

A Product Qualification & Maintenance (IQ/OQ/PQ) package for the


Epoch 2 is available for purchase (PN 1330520). Contact your local
BioTek dealer for more information.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


20 | Chapter 2: Installation

Repackaging and Shipping Instructions

Important! Please read all of the information provided below


before preparing the Epoch 2 for shipment.

Contact BioTek’s Technical Assistance Center for a service authorization


number and the shipping address before returning equipment for service.

If the reader has been exposed to potentially hazardous material,


decontaminate it to minimize the risk to all who come in contact with the
reader during shipping, handling, and servicing. Decontamination prior to
shipping is required by the U.S Department of Transportation regulations.
See the As-Needed Maintenance chapter for decontamination
instructions.

Remove the microplate from the carrier before shipment. Spilled fluids can
contaminate the optics and damage the instrument.

The instrument's packaging design is subject to change. If the instructions


in this section do not appear to apply to the packaging materials you are
using, please contact BioTek's Technical Assistance Center for guidance.

Replace the shipping hardware before repackaging the reader. Please


contact BioTek if you have misplaced any of these items.

l Carrier shipping bracket (PN 1332048)

l Carrier shipping bracket screws (PN 1032190)

If you need to ship the Epoch 2 to BioTek for service or repair, be sure to
use the original packaging materials. Other forms of commercially
available packaging are not recommended and can void the warranty.

The shipping materials are designed to be used no more than five times. If
the original materials have been damaged, lost, or used more than five
times, contact BioTek to order replacement part number 1333003. The
shipping box, accessories box, foam caps, and so on are included as a
whole set under this part number and cannot be ordered separately.

Attach the Shipping Hardware

The shipping hardware must be reattached to the carrier before the


Epoch 2 can be shipped.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Repackaging and Shipping Instructions | 21

1. If you have not already done so, retract the microplate carrier.
2. Turn off the reader, and unplug the power supply from the power outlet
and from the power supply connector on the back of the reader.
3. Disconnect the USB cable from the reader (if using a PC).
4. If you have a model with a touch screen, power down the touch screen.
5. If you have a model with cuvette port, remove the cuvette holder, and
apply tape over the cuvette port to prevent contamination during
shipment.
6. Using a screwdriver, reattach the shipping bracket to the carrier.

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22 | Chapter 2: Installation

Repackage the Instrument


Ensure that the shipping hardware has been attached to the carrier as instructed in
the previous section. Refer to the next two figures when performing the following
steps:

1. Place the foam corner cubes into the bottom of the shipping container. No
special orientation of the cubes is required.
2. Place the reader inside the original plastic bag, and carefully lower the
reader into the foam cubes in the bottom of the box.
3. Touch screen models only: If you are using new packaging materials,
remove the two pullouts so the sleeve fits over the touch screen.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Repackaging and Shipping Instructions | 23

4. Slide the packing sleeve over the reader.


5. Place the accessory tray in the box, and then place accessories into the tray
as shown in the figure.
6. Close the top of the box, and secure it with shipping tape.
7. Write the service authorization number and shipping address in large,
clear letters on the outside of the shipping container, and ship the box to
BioTek.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


24 | Chapter 2: Installation

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Repackaging and Shipping Instructions | 25

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


26 | Chapter 2: Installation

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Chapter 3

Getting Started

This chapter provides an introduction to using Gen5 to control


the Epoch 2. It also contains recommendations for optimum
performance.

Gen5 Software 28
Using the Touch Screen 29
Using Gen5 TS 32
Using a Mouse with the Touch Screen 34
Recommendations for Optimum Performance 39
28 | Chapter 3: Getting Started

Gen5 Software
BioTek Gen5 software supports all Epoch 2 reader models. Use Gen5, either on
your PC or on the Epoch 2's touch screen, to control the reader and a BioStack (if
equipped); perform data reduction and analysis on the measurement values; print
or export results; and more. This section provides brief instructions for working
with Gen5 to create protocols and experiments and read plates. Refer to the Gen5
Help system for more information.

Epoch 2 models with a touch screen come with Gen5 TS already


installed. See the Gen5 TS Getting Started Guide for more information
about this edition of Gen5.

Epoch 2 models without a touch screen are controlled using Gen5 on a


host PC.

Protocols and Experiments


In Gen5, a protocol contains instructions for controlling the reader and (optionally)
instructions for analyzing the data retrieved from the reader. At a minimum, a
protocol must specify the procedure for the assay you wish to run. After creating a
protocol, create an experiment that references the protocol. You’ll run the
experiment to read plates and analyze the data.
These instructions briefly describe how to create a protocol in Gen5. See the Gen5
Help system for complete instructions.

1. In the Gen5 Task Manager, select Protocol > Create New.


2. Open the Procedure dialog. If prompted to select a reader, select the
Epoch 2 and click OK.

3. Select a Plate Type.

The assay plate must match the plate type selected in Gen5.
Otherwise, the results of the read may be invalid.

To read cuvettes ("C" models only), select Cuvette. If reading multiple


cuvettes, the data will be mapped to a microplate matrix (cuvette 1
data in well A1, cuvette 2 data in well A2, and so on).

4. Add steps to the procedure for reading, shaking, or heating the plate and
more. Click Validate to verify that the reader supports the defined steps,
and then click OK.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Using the Touch Screen | 29

Optionally, perform the next steps to analyze and report the results:

5. Open the Plate Layout dialog and assign blanks, samples, controls, and/or
standards to the plate.
6. Open the Data Reduction dialog to add data reduction steps. Categories
include Transformation, Well Analysis, Curve Analysis, Cutoff, and
Validation.
7. Create a report or export template via the Report/Export Builders.
8. Select File > Save and give the file an identifying name.

These instructions briefly describe how to create an experiment and then read a
plate in Gen5. See the Gen5 Help system for complete instructions.

1. In the Gen5 Task Manager, select Experiment > Create using an


existing protocol .

2. Select the desired protocol and click OK.

3. Select a plate in the menu tree and click .


4. When the read is complete, measurement values appear in Gen5. Select the
desired data set from the Data list.
5. Select File > Save and give the file an identifying name.

Using the Touch Screen


For models with a touch screen.

Do not use a sharp stylus or pencil on the touch screen. Doing so can
damage the touch screen's surface. You can use a stylus designed for
capacitive touch screens.

Turning on Touch Screen, and Sleep Mode

Turning on the touch screen does not turn on the reader, which has a
separate power button. See Turn on the Reader on page 12.

To power down the entire instrument, you must turn off both the touch
screen and the reader.

l To turn on the touch screen, press and hold the power button. Once the
touch screen is ready for use, the Gen5 TS Task Manager opens.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


30 | Chapter 3: Getting Started

l You can power down the touch screen by pressing and holding the power
button on the top-left edge of the reader.
l To put the touch screen into sleep mode (i.e., still powered on, but not
actively displaying anything on the screen), press and release the power
button quickly. Note that if you minimize the Gen5 window before putting
the touch screen into sleep mode, it will still be minimized when you open
the touch screen from sleep mode.

When turning on the touch screen or opening it from sleep mode, the
touch screen displays the Lock screen. Swipe upward on the touch
screen to close the Lock screen and display the desktop.

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Using the Touch Screen | 31

On-Screen Actions

l To select a button, check box, or link, or to activate a text box, tap the item
once.
l To open a context menu (also known as a right-click menu), hold your
finger on the screen over the location for which you want to open the
menu. When the outline of the menu appears, release your finger. You can
then select a command from the menu by tapping it once.
l To enter text in a field in Gen5, tap in the text box to open the on-screen
keyboard. Enter the text and tap Enter or click in the top-right
corner of the keyboard to close it.
l To open a list, tap its downward-facing arrow.
l To move a dialog or the pop-up keyboard to a different location on the
screen, hold your finger on the title bar and drag it to another location. 
l To resize a dialog, drag the bottom-right corner of the dialog.

Gen5 TS does not support minimizing or maximizing the view using a


pinching motion.

WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity capability of the touch screen are


disabled by default.

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32 | Chapter 3: Getting Started

Navigating in Windows

l If you press the Windows button on the touch screen , the Windows
Start screen is displayed. To return to the desktop and Gen5 TS, tap the
Desktop tile.

l If Gen5 TS is closed, double-tap the Gen5 TS icon on the desktop to restart


the program.
l A toolbar on the bottom of the desktop provides access to the Windows
Start screen, a file navigator, and the onscreen keyboard. An icon for
Internet Explorer is also available; however, WiFi is disabled by default for
the touch screen.

Cleaning the Touch Screen


See Clean the Touch Screen on page 44.

Using Gen5 TS

This section briefly discusses common tasks. See the Gen5 TS Help for
more detailed information.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Using Gen5 TS | 33

Security
Gen5 TS opens automatically when the touch screen is turned on (it may take a
few moments to load). No login is required. Gen5 TS does allow a System
Administrator to log in (System > Administrator LogIn) with a default
password of "admin" and edit the permissions for non-Admin users. See the Gen5
Help system for more information.

Saving Files
After running a Gen5 TS experiment or measuring a Take3/Take3 Trio plate,
results are displayed on the touch screen. By default, protocol and experiment files
are stored in a database on the touch screen.

Viewing Reports
To view a report in Gen5 TS, tap Print Preview. If you have more than one
report defined, you will be prompted to select the report to view. Otherwise, the
report opens in a preview window. You can tap to zoom in or to zoom
out. Tap Close to close the Print Preview window and return to the experiment.

Exporting/Printing Data
A port for the USB flash drive is provided on the top of the reader, behind the
touch screen. If you wish to export the data for use on another device, you can
choose the QuickExport option to convert results to an HTML file, which can then
be saved to the flash drive (F:\).
The reader does not come equipped with Microsoft Excel, but you can install it to
support the Gen5 PowerExport feature.

Importing/Exporting Files
You can import and export experiment and protocol files, as well as sample names,
plate layout files, file exports, Take3 HTML export files, and diagnostic reports to
and from a USB flash drive (the F:\ drive). In Gen5 TS, you can define a default
location for saving files. Tap System > Preferences > Preferred File
Locations.

l From the Task Manager, tap to access the options to import or


export a protocol or experiment file from or to the USB flash drive.

l Select Protocol > Open. In the Open dialog, tap to import from the
USB stick.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


34 | Chapter 3: Getting Started

l For other files, such as sample names, Import and Export commands are
provided in relevant dialogs.

Installing Gen5 TS on a PC


Gen5 TS is provided on a USB stick so you can install it on a PC. You can create
protocols on a PC and transfer them to the touch screen using a USB flash drive.
You can also transfer an experiment from the touch screen to a PC in order to
export to Excel or print. Refer to the Gen5 TS Getting Started Guide for installation
and setup instructions.
After you install Gen5 TS on a PC, disable the on-screen keyboard capability:

1. Open Gen5 TS on the PC.


2. Go to System > Instrument Configuration, click Add Reader, and
select Epoch 2.
3. Configure the Epoch 2 as Plug & Play.
4. Go to System > Preferences > User Experience, and clear the This
computer is used with a touch screen check box.

5. Close Gen5 TS.


6. Press CTRL+ALT+DELETE, and select Start Task Manager.
7. On the Processes tab, highlight AutoKeyboardPopup, click End
Process, and close Windows Task Manager.

Controlling Epoch 2 with a Touch Screen from a PC


You can use either Gen5 TS or Gen5 v2.06 on a PC to control the Epoch 2 via USB
cord. If you have an Epoch 2 with a touch screen, this method of controlling the
reader disables the touch screen capability. To re-enable communication between
the touch screen and Epoch 2, unplug the USB cable between the PC and the
Epoch 2.

Using a Mouse with the Touch Screen


An HP wireless mouse is supplied with the Epoch 2 models with a touch screen.
This mouse was paired with your Epoch 2 touch screen at BioTek before shipment
and should function properly when you turn it on.
If the supplied mouse and the touch screen are not communicating, or if you wish
to use a different wireless mouse, this section provides setup and test instructions.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Using a Mouse with the Touch Screen | 35

Establishing or Restoring Communication between the Mouse


and the Epoch 2 Touch Screen
If the supplied mouse and the touch screen are not communicating, follow the
instructions under Pair the Mouse and the Touch Screen.

If using a different Bluetooth mouse or a replacement mouse from


BioTek, follow the directions for enabling Bluetooth communication on
the touch screen, and then follow the pairing directions supplied with
the mouse.

Enable Bluetooth Communication on the Touch Screen

1. Ensure that the touch screen is turned on.

The Windows Desktop, the Windows Tile Screen, or Gen5 should be


displayed on the touch screen.

2. Turn the mouse's power switch on.

3. On the touch screen, swipe from right to left to open the Charms menu.
4. Tap Setting > Change PC settings > Network > Airplane Mode.
5. Swipe the Bluetooth slider from left to right to enable Bluetooth
communication.
6. Tap the arrow at the top-left of the touch screen to return to the
PC settings menu.

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36 | Chapter 3: Getting Started

Pair the Mouse and the Touch Screen

1. If you are not already in the PC settings menu, open the Charms menu, tap
Settings > Change PC Settings, and then tap PC and devices
> Bluetooth.

2. Press the Connect button on the underside of the mouse. Typically, a blue
LED on the top of the mouse blinks, signifying that pairing mode is
enabled.

3. When the name of your mouse—such as "HP Slim Bluetooth Mouse" for


the supplied mouse—appears in the Manage Bluetooth devices screen,
select the mouse and tap Pair.
4. You should now be able to use the mouse to move the pointer on the
touch screen.
5. To close the PC and devices window, swipe from top to bottom on the
touch screen.

Configuring Mouse Sensitivity

1. On the Windows Desktop, right-click the Windows icon ( ) in the


lower-left side of the touch screen and select Control Panel .
2. Select Hardware and Sound > Mouse (under Devices and Printers).
3. On the Buttons tab, use the slider under Double-click speed to set how
quickly you must double-click to perform an action.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Using a Mouse with the Touch Screen | 37

4. On the Pointer Options tab, use the slider under Motion to set the desired
speed for pointer moverment, then click Apply.

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38 | Chapter 3: Getting Started

Changing the Mouse's Battery

The following procedure is for the HP Slim Bluetooth mouse that BioTek
ships with Epoch 2 models with touch screens. If you are using a
different Bluetooth-enabled mouse, refer to the instructions that
shipped with your mouse.

1. Turn the mouse's power switch off.


2. Using your fingers, gently pry apart the top and bottom halves of the
mouse, starting at the end opposite the scroll wheel.
3. Remove the AA battery from its slot, and replace it with a new AA battery.
4. Place the top half of the mouse back on the bottom half, and gently press
them together until they click into place.
5. Turn the mouse's power switch back on.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Recommendations for Optimum Performance | 39

Pry apart the mouse Change the battery

Recommendations for Optimum Performance

General
l Microplates should be clean and free from dust or bottom scratches. Use
new microplates from sealed packages. Do not allow dust to settle on the
surface of the solution; use microplate covers or seals when not reading
the plate. Filter solutions to remove particulates that could cause
erroneous readings.
l Although the Epoch 2 supports standard flat, U-bottom, and V-bottom
microplates, the reader achieves optimum performance with flat-bottomed
wells. See Appendix A, Specifications for more information on the
supported plates.
l Non-uniformity in the optical density of the well bottoms can cause loss of
accuracy, especially with U- and V-bottom polyvinyl microplates. Check
for this by reading an empty microplate. Dual wavelength readings can
eliminate this problem, or bring the variation in density readings to within
acceptable limits for most measurements.
l Inaccuracy in pipetting has a large effect on measurements, especially if
smaller volumes of liquid are used. For best results in most cases, use at
least 100 µL per well in a 96-well plate and 25 µL in a 384-well plate.
l Pipetting solution into 384-well plates often traps air bubbles in the wells,
which may result in inaccurate readings. A dual-wavelength reading
method usually eliminates these inaccuracies. For best results, however,
remove the air bubbles by degassing the plate in a vacuum chamber or
spinning the plate in a centrifuge before reading.
l The inclination of the meniscus can cause loss of accuracy in some
solutions, especially with small volumes. Shake the microplate before

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


40 | Chapter 3: Getting Started

reading to help bring it within acceptable limits. Orbital shaking helps to


reduce the meniscus effect. Use Tween 20, if possible (or some other
wetting agent) to normalize the meniscus for absorbance measurements.
Some solutions develop menisci over a period of several minutes. This
effect varies with the brand of microplate and the solution composition. As
the center of the meniscus drops and shortens the light path, the density
readings change. The meniscus shape will stabilize over time.
l It is the user’s responsibility to understand the volumetric limits of the
plate type in use as it applies to the assay being run.
l Use of liquids with concentrations of acids, corrosives, or solvents of 3%
and greater can begin attacking the materials inside the instrument's
chamber. Running multiple plates with concentrations < 3% in long
kinetic experiments may also have a destructive effect. If the experiment is
incubated, it will accelerate the deterioration of chamber components.
When in doubt about the use of acids, corrosives, or solvents, please
contact [email protected].

Using 384-Well Microplates


When using a 384-well microplate, you can use the Gen5 Auto Map feature to
ensure you are using an accurate plate map for your reads. See the Gen5 Help for
more information.

Incubation and Partial Plates


When performing a partial plate read that includes an incubation step, the
following recommendations can reduce the effects of evaporation of your samples:
l Use microplate lids.
l Fill unused wells with fluid.
l Cluster your sample wells rather than spacing them throughout the plate.
l Place your sample wells in the center of the plate. This placement may lead
to less evaporation than if you place the samples in wells on the edge of
the plate.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Chapter 4

Preventive Maintenance

This chapter provides instructions for cleaning and


decontaminating the Epoch 2.

Preventive Maintenance Overview 42


Warnings and Precautions 42
Routine Cleaning Procedure 43
Clean the Touch Screen 44
Decontamination 45
42 | Chapter 4: Preventive Maintenance

Preventive Maintenance Overview


A general preventive maintenance regimen for all Epoch 2 models includes
periodically cleaning all exposed surfaces and decontaminating the instrument
before storage or shipment. This chapter includes instructions for the following:
l Routine cleaning procedure, page 43
l Cleaning the touch screen, page 44
l Decontamination, page 45

Required Materials
l Mild detergent
l Deionized or distilled water
l Clean, lint-free cotton cloths
l Sodium hypochlorite (NaClO, or bleach) (decontamination only)
l Safety glasses
l Surgical mask
l Protective gloves
l Lab coat
l Biohazard trash bags
l 125-mL beakers
l Cotton swabs or paper towels

Warnings and Precautions


Read the following before performing any maintenance procedures:

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Routine Cleaning Procedure | 43

Warning! Internal Voltage. Turn off and unplug the instrument for all
maintenance and repair operations.

Important! Do not immerse the instrument, spray it with liquid, or use a


“wet” cloth on it. Do not allow water or other cleaning solution to run into the
interior of the instrument. If this happens, contact BioTek’s Technical
Assistance Center.

Important! Do not apply lubricants to the microplate carrier or carrier


track. Lubricant attracts dust and other particles, which may obstruct the
carrier path and cause errors.

Warning! Wear protective gloves when handling contaminated instruments.


Gloved hands should be considered contaminated at all times; keep gloved
hands away from eyes, mouth, nose, and ears.

Warning! Mucous membranes are considered prime entry routes for


infectious agents. Wear eye protection and a surgical mask when there is a
possibility of aerosol contamination. Intact skin is generally considered an
effective barrier against infectious organisms; however, small abrasions and
cuts may not always be visible. Wear protective gloves when handling
contaminated instruments.

Routine Cleaning Procedure

This procedure is for the housing of the Epoch 2 instrument. See page
44 for the cleaning procedure for the touch screen.

A regular cleaning regimen is recommended to keep the instrument free from dust
and particulates that can cause erroneous readings. Exposed surfaces may be
cleaned (not decontaminated) with a cloth moistened (not soaked) with water or
water and a mild detergent.

1. Turn on the instrument, and press the carrier eject button to eject the
microplate carrier.
2. Turn off and unplug the instrument from the power supply and, if
applicable, turn off the touch screen.
3. Moisten a clean, lint-free cloth with water, or with water and mild
detergent. Do not soak the cloth.
4. Wipe the plate carrier and all exposed surfaces of the instrument.
5. If detergent was used, wipe all surfaces with a cloth moistened with water.
6. Use a clean, dry, lint-free cloth to dry all wet surfaces.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


44 | Chapter 4: Preventive Maintenance

If liquid is spilled inside the reader, call BioTek TAC for cleanup


instructions.

Clean the Touch Screen

Materials
Use the following products to safely clean the touch screen:
l Dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride 0.3 percent maximum concentration
(For example: germicidal disposable wipes. These wipes come in a variety
of brand names.)
l Alcohol-free glass-cleaning fluid
l Water with mild soap solution
l Dry microfiber cleaning cloth or a chamois (static-free cloth without oil)
l Static-free cloth wipes, such as Kimwipes

Never spray solutions directly on the touch screen.

Avoid the following cleaning products:

l Strong solvents, such as alcohol, acetone, ammonium chloride,


methylene chloride, and hydrocarbons, which can permanently
damage the surface of the touch screen.
l Fibrous materials, such as paper towels, which can scratch the
touch screen. Over time, dirt particles and cleaning agents can
get trapped in the scratches.

Procedure

1. Turn off the touch screen, and turn off and unplug the instrument.
2. Moisten a clean, lint-free cloth with water, or with water and mild
detergent. Do not soak the cloth.
3. Wipe the touch screen gently with the moist cloth.
4. Dry the screen gently using another cloth.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Decontamination | 45

Decontamination
Any laboratory instrument that has been used for research or clinical analysis is
considered a biohazard and requires decontamination prior to handling.
Decontamination minimizes the risk to all who come into contact with the
instrument during shipping, handling, and servicing. Decontamination is required
by the U.S. Department of Transportation regulations.
Persons performing the decontamination process must be familiar with the basic
setup and operation of the instrument.

Turn off and unplug the instrument for the decontamination procedure.

BioTek Instruments, Inc., recommends the use of the following


decontamination solutions and methods based on our knowledge of the
instrument and recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC). Neither BioTek nor the CDC assumes any liability for the
adequacy of these solutions and methods. Each laboratory must ensure
that decontamination procedures are adequate for the biohazard(s) they
handle.

Wear prophylactic gloves when handling contaminated instruments.


Gloved hands should be considered contaminated at all times; keep gloved
hands away from eyes, mouth, and nose. Eating and drinking while
decontaminating instruments is not advised.

Mucous membranes are considered prime entry routes for infectious


agents. Wear eye protection and a surgical mask when there is a
possibility of aerosol contamination. Intact skin is generally considered an
effective barrier against infectious organisms; however, small abrasions
and cuts may not always be visible. Wear protective gloves when
performing the decontamination procedure.

Decontaminating the Reader Housing

See Clean the Touch Screen on page 44 for decontaminating the


touch screen.

Required Materials

l Sodium hypochlorite (NaClO, or bleach)


l 70% isopropyl alcohol (as an alternative to bleach)
l Deionized or distilled water

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


46 | Chapter 4: Preventive Maintenance

l Safety glasses
l Surgical mask
l Protective gloves
l Lab coat
l Biohazard trash bags
l 125-mL beakers
l Clean, lint-free cotton cloths

Procedure

1. Turn on the instrument, and press the carrier eject button to eject the
carrier.
2. Turn off and unplug the reader from the power supply, and, if applicable,
turn off the touch screen.
3. Prepare an aqueous solution of 0.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaClO, or
bleach). If the effects of bleach are a concern, 70% isopropyl alcohol may be
used.

Check the percent NaClO of the bleach you are using. Commercial
bleach is typically 10.0% NaClO; prepare a 1:20 dilution. Household
bleach is typically 5.0% NaClO; prepare a 1:10 dilution.

4. Moisten a clean, lint-free cloth with the bleach solution. Do not soak the
cloth.
5. Wipe the plate carrier and all exposed surfaces of the instrument, except
the touch screen (if equipped).
6. Allow the instrument to dry for 20 minutes for thorough decontamination
by the bleach.
7. Moisten a cloth with deionized or distilled water and wipe all surfaces of
the instrument that have been cleaned with the bleach solution.
8. Use a clean, dry lint-free cloth to dry all wet surfaces.
9. Discard the used gloves and cloths, using a biohazard trash bag and an
approved biohazard container.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Chapter 5

Instrument Qualification

This chapter contains procedures for qualifying the initial and


ongoing performance of the Epoch 2.

Instrument Qualification Overview 48


IQ/OQ/PQ Description 48
Recommended Qualification Schedule 49
System Test 50
Absorbance Plate Test 51
Absorbance Liquid Tests 56
Cuvette Test 64
48 | Chapter 5: Instrument Qualification

Instrument Qualification Overview


This chapter contains BioTek Instruments’ recommended Installation Qualification
(IQ), Operational Qualification (OQ), and Performance Qualification (PQ)
procedures for all models of the Epoch 2 Microplate Reader.
Every Epoch 2 reader is fully tested at BioTek prior to shipment and should
operate properly upon initial setup. If you suspect that a problem occurred during
shipment, if you have received the equipment after returning it to the factory for
service, and/or if regulatory requirements dictate that you qualify the equipment
on a routine basis, perform the procedures outlined in this chapter.

A Product Qualification Package (PN 1330520) for the Epoch 2 is


available for purchase. The package contains complete procedures,
Gen5 protocols, checklists, and logbooks for performing Installation
Qualification, Operational Qualification, Performance Qualification, and
Preventive Maintenance. Contact your local BioTek dealer for more
information.

IQ/OQ/PQ Description
Installation Qualification confirms that the reader and its components have been
supplied as ordered and ensures that they are assembled and configured properly
for your lab environment.
l The recommended IQ procedure consists of setting up the instrument and
its components as described in Chapter 2, Installation, and performing
the System Test.
l The IQ procedure should be performed initially (before the reader is used
for the first time).
l The successful completion of the IQ procedure verifies that the instrument
is installed correctly. The Operational Qualification procedure should be
performed immediately following the successful IQ.
Operational Qualification confirms that the equipment operates according to
specification initially and over time.
l The recommended OQ procedure consists of performing the system test,
absorbance plate test, and a series of liquid tests.
l The OQ procedure should be performed initially (before first use) and
then routinely; the recommended interval is annually. It should also be
performed after any major repair or upgrade to the hardware or software.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Recommended Qualification Schedule | 49

l Although out-of-tolerance failures will be detected by the OQ tests, results


should be compared with those from the routine Performance
Qualification tests and previous OQ tests to monitor for trends.
l The successful completion of the OQ procedure, in combination with
results that are comparable to previous PQ and OQ tests, confirms that the
equipment is operating according to specification initially and over time.
Performance Qualification confirms that the reader consistently meets the
requirements of the tests performed at your laboratory.
l The recommended PQ procedure consists of performing the system test,
absorbance plate test, and a series of liquid tests.
l Your facility’s operating policies may also require that you routinely
perform an actual assay, to confirm that the reader will consistently give
adequate results for the assays to be run on it.
l These tests should be performed routinely; the recommended interval is
monthly or quarterly, depending on the test. This frequency may be
adjusted depending on the trends observed over time.
l The successful completion of the PQ procedure confirms that the
equipment is performing consistently under normal operating conditions.

Recommended Qualification Schedule


This schedule defines BioTek-recommended intervals for qualification for an
instrument used for one shift seven days a week.

The risk and performance factors associated with your assays may require
that the Operational and Performance Qualification procedures be performed
more or less frequently than shown here.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


50 | Chapter 5: Instrument Qualification

IQ OQ PQ
Tasks/Tests Initially/
Initially Monthly Quarterly
Annually

All models:

Unpacking, installation, setup, and


ü
verification

System Test ü ü ü

Plate Shaker Test ü

"Run Assay" Test ü

Absorbance Plate Test ü ü

Absorbance Liquid Test 1 ü ü

Absorbance Liquid Test 2* ü ü

Absorbance Liquid Test 3 (optional)** ü ü

Cuvette Test (if equipped) ü ü

* If you have an Absorbance Test Plate, run Liquid Test 1. If you do not have an
Absorbance Test Plate, run Liquid Test 2.
** Liquid Test 3 is optional; it is provided for sites requiring verification at
wavelengths lower than those attainable with the Absorbance Test Plate.

System Test
Each time the Epoch 2 is turned on, it automatically performs a series of tests on
the reader’s motors, lamp, and various subsystems. This test can take a few
minutes to complete. If all tests pass, the microplate carrier is ejected and the green
LED on the power switch remains on.
If any test results do not meet the internally coded Failure Mode Effects Analysis
(FMEA) criteria established by BioTek, the reader beeps repeatedly and the green
LED on the power switch flashes. If this occurs, press the carrier eject button to
stop the beeping. If necessary, initiate another system test using Gen5 to try to
retrieve an error code from the reader. Refer to Appendix B, Error Codes for
information on error codes and for troubleshooting tips.

If the power-up system test fails, when you initiate a system test using
Gen5, Gen5 displays a message stating that the reader has a pending
system test report. Click OK in the message box to review the report; it
contains information obtained up to the point of the failure.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Absorbance Plate Test | 51

1. Turn on the reader and launch Gen5.


2. If your assays use incubation, we recommend enabling Temperature
Control and allowing the incubator to reach its set point before running
the system test. To access this feature, from the Gen5 main screen, select
System > Instrument Control and click the Pre-Heating tab.

3. Select System > Diagnostics > Run System Test.

If the test fails during execution, a message box appears in the


software. Close the box; the test report contains the error code that
was generated by the failure.

4. When the test is complete, a dialog appears, requesting additional


information. Enter your user name and other information (if desired) and
then click OK.
5. The results report appears. Scroll down toward the bottom of the report; it
shows either “SYSTEM TEST PASS” or “SYSTEM TEST FAIL *** ERROR
(error code) DETECTED.”
l Gen5 stores the results in a database, so the results can be retrieved at
any time.
6. If the test failed, look up the error code in Appendix B, Error Codes to
determine its cause. If the cause is something you can fix, turn off the
reader, fix the problem, and then turn the reader back on and retry the
test.

If the test continues to fail, or if the cause is not something you can fix, contact
BioTek’s Technical Assistance Center.

Absorbance Plate Test


This test confirms the mechanical alignment; optical density accuracy, linearity,
and repeatability; and wavelength accuracy of the Epoch 2. The Absorbance Test
Plate compares the reader's optical density and wavelength measurements to NIST-
traceable values.

An alternate method for confirming accuracy, linearity, and


repeatability is Liquid Test 2.

To run this test, you need the BioTek Absorbance Test Plate (PN 7260522), with its
accompanying data sheet.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


52 | Chapter 5: Instrument Qualification

l The Absorbance OD Standards section contains NIST-traceable standard


OD values for the filters at several different wavelengths. We recommend
testing at six wavelengths—those at or close to the wavelengths used in
your assays.
l The Wavelength Accuracy Standards section contains Expected Peak
wavelength values for the filter in position C6 on the plate. Each value has
a valid test range associated with it. For example, an Expected Peak value
may be 586 nm with tolerance values of –6/+4 (or a test range of 580 to 590
nm).

The instructions provided below are guidelines. Refer to the Gen5 Help
system for more information.

Define the Absorbance Test Plate Parameters

1. Obtain the certificates that came with the test plate.


2. Start Gen5, and from the main screen, select System > Diagnostics >
Test Plates > Add/Modify Plates.

3. Click Add. The Absorbance Test Plate dialog appears.


4. Select the appropriate plate type, and enter the plate's serial number.
5. Enter the Last Certification and Next Certification dates from the
calibration sticker on the test plate.
6. If the wavelength values in the top row of the grid in Gen5 are appropriate
for your tests, enter the OD values from the Standards Certification into
the grid. Make sure you enter the correct value for each well/wavelength
combination.

If you need to change the wavelength values, click Wavelength List.


Click Help for assistance.

7. Select the number of Peak Wavelength tests to run (up to four), based on
the number of expected peak wavelength values provided on the
certificate.
8. Enter the Expected Peak value(s) from the certificate and set the Test
Range - and + values.

The glass in each test plate is unique. Therefore, the expected peaks
may differ slightly from plate to plate.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Absorbance Plate Test | 53

l If the C6 filter is Erbium or Holmium glass, the certificate contains two


Spectral Bandpass tables. For the Epoch 2, we recommend using the 5.0
nm table.
l For the Erbium glass, you can use any peak.
l For the Holmium glass, use the expected peak values closest to
242, 279, 362, 417, and 538 nm in the 5.0 nm table. For example,
if your certificate looks like the one below, you might choose to
run the test at four of the five highlighted Expected Peak/Test
Range combinations:

5.0 nm Spectral Bandpass

Expected Peak Test Range

242 -5+5

279 -6+4

288 -4+6

334 -5+5

362 -5+5

417 -5+5

485 -5+5

538 -5+5

643 -5+5

l If the C6 filter is Didymium glass, a single peak wavelength value is


provided. Enter this value and set the Test Range - and + values so the
range displayed in parentheses is 580 to 590, as shown here:

9. Review all of the values you entered, and then click OK to save the data.

The information just entered is available in Gen5 each time the Absorbance Plate
Test is performed. It may need to be modified after the annual recertification of
your test plate.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


54 | Chapter 5: Instrument Qualification

Running the Absorbance Plate Test

1. From the Gen5 main screen, click System > Diagnostics > Test Plates
> Run.

2. If prompted, select the desired Test Plate and click OK.


3. When the Absorbance Test Plate Options dialog appears, select Perform
Peak Wavelength Test, if it is not already selected.

4. Highlight the wavelength(s) to be included in this test.

You need to select only those wavelengths most appropriate for your
use of the reader.

5. (Optional) Enter any Comments.


6. Click Start Test.
7. Place the Test Plate in the microplate carrier so that well A1 is in the right-
rear corner of the carrier.
8. Click OK to run the test.
9. When the test is complete, the results report appears. Scroll through the
report; every result should show “PASS”.
l Gen5 stores the test results in a database, so they results can be
retrieved at any time.

Results and Troubleshooting Tips


Peak Absorbance: When the test is performed, the C6 filter is scanned at the test
range(s) defined by the user in the Absorbance Test Plate dialog. To verify
wavelength accuracy, the wavelength of the maximum absorbance is compared
with the peak wavelength value entered in the software, which comes from the
Peak Wavelength Certificate supplied with the Test Plate. The accuracy of the
wavelength should be ± 3 nm (± 2 nm instrument, ± 1 nm filter allowance). If the
reader fails this test:
l Make sure the information entered into Gen5 matches the Test Plate’s Peak
Wavelength Certificate.
l Verify that the Test Plate actually has a filter in location C6.
l Check the C6 filter to make sure it is clean. If needed, clean it with lens
paper.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Absorbance Plate Test | 55

Do not remove the filter from the Test Plate, and do not use alcohol or
other cleaning agents.

l Make sure the Test Plate is within its calibration certification period. If it is
out of date, contact BioTek to schedule a recertification.
l Check the microplate carrier to ensure it is clear of debris.

Alignment: This test measures the alignment of the microplate carrier with the
optical path. A reading greater than 0.015 OD represents an out-of-alignment
condition.
If the reader fails this test:
l Ensure that the Test Plate is correctly seated in the microplate carrier.
l Check the four alignment holes (A1, A12, H1, and H12) to ensure they are
clear of debris.
l Check the microplate carrier to ensure it is clear of debris.

Accuracy: Accuracy is a measure of the optical density of Test Plate wells C1, D4,
E2, F5, G3, and H6 as compared with known standard values contained in the
Standards Certificate that accompanies each Test Plate.
If the reader fails this test, review the following possible problems and solutions:
l Verify that the filter calibration values entered in Gen5 are the same as
those on the Test Plate’s Standards Certificate.
l Check the neutral-density filters on the Test Plate to ensure they are clean.
If necessary, clean them with lens paper.

Do not remove the filter from the Test Plate, and do not use alcohol or
other cleaning agents.

l Verify that the Test Plate is within its calibration certification period. If it is
out of date, contact BioTek to schedule a recertification.
Repeatability: Repeatability is a measure of the instrument’s ability to read the
same well with minimum variation between two reads with the well in the same
location. If the reader fails this test:
l Check the filters on the Test Plate to ensure there is no debris that may
have shifted between readings and caused changes.
l Check the microplate carrier to ensure it is clear of debris.

Linearity of the optical density readings is confirmed by default if the optical


density readings are accurate. To further verify this, you can perform a regression

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


56 | Chapter 5: Instrument Qualification

analysis on the Test Plate OD values in a spreadsheet program such as Microsoft


Excel. An R Squared value of at least 0.990 is expected.

Absorbance Liquid Tests


Conducting liquid tests confirms the reader’s ability to perform to specification
with liquid samples. Liquid testing differs from testing with the Absorbance Test
Plate in that liquid in the wells has a meniscus, whereas the Test Plate’s neutral
density glass filters do not. The optics characteristics may differ in these two cases,
thus alerting the operator to different types of problems.
l If you have the Absorbance Test Plate, you will need to perform only
Liquid Test 1 for routine testing.
l If you do not have the Absorbance Test Plate, you can test the linearity,
repeatability, and alignment of the reader by performing Liquid Test 2.
l BioTek offers a dye solution (PN 7120779, 25 mL; or 7120782, 125 mL) that
can be used in the stock solution formulation for Liquid Tests 1 and 2. The
purpose of the formulation is to create a solution that absorbs light in a
well-defined manner at ~2.000 OD full strength when dispensed at 200 µL
in a flat-bottom microplate well.
l Alternatively, any solution that gives a stable color will suffice. (This
includes substrates incubated with an enzyme preparation and then
stopped with an acidic or basic solution.) Some enzyme/substrate
combinations that may be used as alternates to the described dye are
shown in Table 1 below.
l If you must test the reader’s performance at 340 nm, perform the optional
Liquid Test 3.
Table 1: Typical Enzyme-Substrate Combinations and Stopping Solutions

Enzyme Substrate Stopping Solution

Alkaline
o-nitrophenyl phosphate 3N sodium hydroxide
Phosphate

beta-
o-nitrophenyl -beta-D galactopyranoside 1M sodium carbonate
Galactosidase

2,2'-Azino di-ethylbenzothiazoline- citrate-phosphate


Peroxidase
sulfonic acid (ABTS) buffer, pH 2.8

Peroxidase o-phenylenediamine 0.03N sulfuric acid

Absorbance Liquid Test 1


Absorbance Liquid Test 1 confirms repeatability and alignment of the reader when
a solution is used in the microplate. If these tests pass, then the lens placement and

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Absorbance Liquid Tests | 57

optical system cleanliness are proven.

Materials

Manufacturer part numbers are subject to change.

l New 96-well, clear, flat-bottom microplate (Corning Costar #3590


recommended)
l Stock Solution A or B, which may be formulated by diluting a dye solution
available from BioTek (A) or from the ingredients listed below (B).

Solution A

l BioTek QC Check Solution No. 1 (PN 7120779, 25 mL; or 7120782, 125 mL)
l Deionized water
l 5-mL Class A volumetric pipette
l 100-mL volumetric flask

1. Pipette a 5-mL aliquot of BioTek QC Check Solution No. 1 into a 100-mL


volumetric flask.
2. Add 95 mL of DI water; cap and shake well. The solution should measure
approximately 2.000 OD when using 200 µL in a flat-bottom microwell.

Solution B

l Deionized water
l FD&C Yellow No. 5 dye powder (typically 90% pure)
l Tween 20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate) or BioTek wetting
agent, PN 7773002 (a 10% Tween solution)
l Precision balance with capacity of 100 g minimum and readability of 0.001
g
l 1-liter volumetric flask
l Weigh boat

1. Weigh out 0.092 gram of FD&C No. 5 yellow dye powder into a weigh boat.
2. Rinse the contents into a 1-liter volumetric flask.
3. Add 0.5 mL of Tween 20, or 5 mL of BioTek’s wetting agent.
4. Make up to 1 liter with DI water; cap and shake well.

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58 | Chapter 5: Instrument Qualification

Prepare the Plate

A 96-well, flat-bottom microplate is required for this test (Corning


Costar #3590 is recommended). Use a new microplate; any
fingerprints or scratches may cause variations in readings.

1. Using freshly prepared stock solution (Solution A or B), prepare a 1:2


dilution using deionized water (one part stock, one part deionized water;
the resulting solution is a 1:2 dilution). The concentrated stock solution
should have an optical density of approximately 2.000 OD or lower.
2. Pipette 200 µL of the stock solution into column 1.
3. Pipette 200 µL of the diluted solution into column 2.

After pipetting the diluted test solution into the microplate and before
reading the plate, we strongly recommend shaking the plate for four
minutes. This will allow any air bubbles in the solution to settle and the
meniscus to stabilize. Alternatively, wait 20 minutes after pipetting the
test solution before reading the plate.

Read the Plate

1. Read the microplate five times at 405 nm using normal reading mode,
single wavelength, no blanking (“Normal” plate position).
2. Rotate the microplate 180° so that well A1 is now in the H12 position. Read
the plate five more times (“Turnaround” plate position).
3. The test generates ten sets of raw data. Perform the calculations described
below.

Calculations

1. Calculate the mean value for each physical well location in columns 1 and 2
for the five plates read in the Normal position, and then again for the five
plates read in the Turnaround position. This will result in 32 mean values.
2. Perform a mathematical comparison of the mean values for each well in its
Normal and Turnaround positions (A1/H12, A2/H11, B1/G12, B2/G11,
and so on). To pass this test, the differences in the compared mean values
must be within the accuracy specification for the instrument.

For example:

If the mean value for well A1 in the Normal position is 1.902, with a

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Absorbance Liquid Tests | 59

specified accuracy of ± 1.0% ± 0.010 OD, then the expected range for the
mean of the well in its Turnaround (H12) position is 1.873 to 1.931 OD.
1.902 x 0.010 + 0.010 = 0.029; 1.902 - 0.029 = 1.873; 1.902 + 0.029 = 1.931.

Repeatability Specification:
± 1.0% ± 0.005 OD from 0.000 to 2.000 OD
± 3.0% ± 0.005 OD from 2.000 OD to 2.500 OD

Accuracy Specification:
± 1.0% ± 0.010 OD from 0.000 to 2.000 OD
± 3.0% ± 0.010 OD from 2.000 OD to 2.500 OD

Absorbance Liquid Test 2


The recommended method for testing the instrument’s alignment, repeatability,
and accuracy is to use the Absorbance Test Plate. If the Test Plate is not available,
however, Liquid Test 2 can be used for these tests.

Materials

l A new 96-well, clear, flat-bottom microplate (Corning Costar #3590 is


recommended)
l Ten test tubes, numbered consecutively, set up in a rack
l Calibrated hand pipette (Class A volumetric pipette recommended)
l Solution A or B (see the instructions for Liquid Test 1)
l A 0.05% solution of deionized water and Tween 20

Prepare the Dilutions


Create a percentage dilution series, beginning with 100% of the original
concentrated stock solution (A or B) in the first tube, 90% of the original solution in
the second tube, 80% in the third tube, all the way to 10% in the tenth tube.
Dilute using the 0.05% solution of deionized water and Tween 20. This solution can
also be made by diluting the BioTek wetting agent 200:1.

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60 | Chapter 5: Instrument Qualification

Test Tube Dilutions for Liquid Test 2

Tube Number 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Volume of Original Concentrated


20 18 16 14 12 10 8 6 4 2
Solution (mL)

Volume of 0.05% Tween Solution


0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18
(mL)

Absorbance expected if original


2.0 1.8 1.6 1.4 1.2 1.0 0.8 0.6 0.4 0.2
solution is 2.0 at 200 μL

The choice of dilutions and the absorbance of the original solution can
be varied. Use this table as a model for calculating the expected
absorbances of a series of dilutions, given a different absorbance of the
original solution.

Prepare the Plate

l Pipette 200 µL of the concentrated solution from Tube 1 into each well of
the first column, A1 to H1, of a new flat-bottom microplate.
l Pipette 200 µL from each of the remaining tubes into the wells of the
corresponding column of the microplate (Tube 2 into wells A2 to H2, Tube
3 into wells A3 to H3, and so on).

After pipetting the diluted test solution into the microplate and before
reading the plate, we strongly recommend shaking the plate for four
minutes. This will allow any air bubbles in the solution to settle and the
meniscus to stabilize. Alternatively, wait 20 minutes after pipetting the
test solution before reading the plate.

Linearity and Repeatability Tests

1. Read the microplate prepared above five times using Normal mode, dual
wavelength at 450 nm with 630 nm as the blank. Save the data after each
read.

Do not discard the plate; you will use it for the Alignment test.

2. The test generates five sets of Delta OD data. Perform the calculations
described below.
3. Calculate the results for Linearity:

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Absorbance Liquid Tests | 61

l Calculate the mean absorbance for each well, and average the means
for each concentration.
l Perform a regression analysis on the data to determine if there is
adequate linearity.
Since it is somewhat difficult to achieve high pipetting accuracy when
conducting linear dilutions, an R Square value of at least 0.99 is considered
adequate.
4. Calculate the results for Repeatability:
l Calculate the mean and standard deviation for the five readings taken
in Step 1 at each concentration. Only one row of data needs to be
analyzed.
l For each mean below 2.000 OD, calculate the allowed deviation using
the repeatability specification for a 96-well plate of ± 1.0% ± 0.005 OD.
If above 2.000 OD, apply the ± 3.0% ± 0.005 specification.
l The standard deviation for each set of readings should be less than
the allowed deviation.
Example: Absorbance readings of 1.950, 1.948, 1.955, 1.952, and 1.950 will
result in a mean of 1.951, and a standard deviation of 0.0026. The mean
(1.951) multiplied by 1.0% (1.951 x 0.010) = 0.0195, which, when added to the
0.005 (0.0195 + 0.005) = 0.0245 OD, which is the allowed deviation. Since the
standard deviation is less than this value, the reader meets the test criteria.

Repeatability Specification:

± 1.0% ± 0.005 OD from 0.000 to 2.000 OD


± 3.0% ± 0.005 OD from 2.000 to 2.500 OD

Alignment Test

1. Using the plate prepared for the Linearity Test, conduct a Turnaround test
by reading the plate five times with the A1 well in the H12 position. Save
the data after each read.
This test results in values for the four corner wells that can be used to
determine alignment.
2. Calculate the means of the wells A1 and H1 in the Normal plate position
(data from Linearity Test) and in the Turnaround position (from Step 1).
3. Compare the mean reading for well A1 to its mean reading when in the
H12 position. Next, compare the mean values for the H1 well to the same
well in the A12 position. The difference in the values for any two
corresponding wells should be within the accuracy specification for the
instrument.

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62 | Chapter 5: Instrument Qualification

Example: If the mean of well A1 in the normal position is 1.902, where the
specified accuracy is ± 1.0% ± 0.010 OD, then the expected range for the
mean of the same well in the H12 position is 1.873 to 1.931 OD. (1.902 x 1.0%
= 0.019 + 0.010 = 0.029, which is added to and subtracted from 1.902 for the
range.)

If the four corner wells are within the accuracy range, the reader is in
alignment.

Accuracy Specification:

± 1.0% ± 0.010 OD from 0.000 to 2.000 OD


± 3.0% ± 0.010 OD from 2.000 to 2.500 OD

Absorbance Liquid Test 3 (optional)


This test is provided for verifying reader performance at 340 nm.

Materials

l New 96-well, clear, flat-bottom microplate (Corning Costar #3590


recommended)
l Calibrated hand pipette(s)
l Beakers and graduated cylinder
l Precision balance with readability to 0.01 g
l Buffer solution described below

Buffer Solution

l Deionized water
l Phosphate-Buffered Saline (PBS), pH 7.2–7.6, Sigma tablets, #P4417 (or
equivalent)
l β-NADH Powder (β-Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, Reduced Form)
Sigma bulk catalog number N 8129, or preweighed 10-mg vials, Sigma
number N6785-10VL (or BioTek PN 98233). Store the powder according to
the guidelines on its packaging.

1. Prepare a PBS solution from the Sigma tablets.


2. In a beaker, mix 50 mL of the PBS solution with 10 mg of the β-NADH
powder and mix thoroughly. This is the 100% Test Solution.

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Absorbance Liquid Tests | 63

Prepare the Plate

1. Prepare the 75% Test Solution by mixing 15 mL of the 100% Test Solution
with 5 mL of the PBS Solution.
2. Prepare the 50% Test Solution by mixing 10 mL of the 100% Test Solution
with 10 mL of the PBS Solution.
3. Carefully pipette the three solutions into a new 96-well microplate:
l 150 µL of the 100% Test Solution into all wells of columns 1 and 2
l 150 µL of the 75% Test Solution into all wells of columns 3 and 4
l 150 µL of the 50% Test Solution into all wells of column 5 and 6

After pipetting the diluted test solution into the microplate and before
reading the plate, we strongly recommend shaking the plate for four
minutes. This will allow any air bubbles in the solution to settle and the
meniscus to stabilize. Alternatively, wait 20 minutes after pipetting the
test solution before reading the plate.

Read the Plate

1. Read the microplate five times using Normal mode, single wavelength at
340 nm, no blanking. Save the data after each read.
2. The test generates five sets of raw data. Perform the calculations described
below.

Analyze the Results

1. For each well, calculate the Mean OD and Standard Deviation of the five
readings.
2. For each mean calculated in step 1, calculate the allowed deviation using
the repeatability specification for a 96-well plate: ± 1% ± 0.005 OD from
0.000 to 2.000 OD (Mean x 0.01 + 0.005). For each well, its standard
deviation should be less than its allowed deviation.
Example: Five readings in well A1 of 0.802, 0.802, 0.799, 0.798, and 0.801 result
in a mean of 0.8004 and a standard deviation of 0.0018. The mean multiplied
by 1.0% (0.8004 * 0.010) equals 0.008, which when added to 0.005 equals 0.013;
this is the allowed deviation for well A1. Since the standard deviation for
well A1 is less than 0.013, the well meets the test criteria.
3. Calculate the results for Linearity:

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64 | Chapter 5: Instrument Qualification

l For each of the three dye concentrations, calculate the average Mean
OD for the wells containing that solution (mean of wells A1 to H2, A3
to H4, and A5 to H6).
l Perform a regression analysis on the data to determine if there is
adequate linearity. Since it is somewhat difficult to achieve high
pipetting accuracy when conducting linear dilutions, an R Square
value of at least 0.99 is considered adequate.

Repeatability Specification:

± 1.0% ± 0.005 OD from 0.000 to 2.000 OD


± 3.0% ± 0.005 OD from 2.000 OD to 2.500 OD

Cuvette Test
Applies to models with a cuvette port.
The Cuvette Test confirms the accuracy of the cuvette optics by comparing the
Mean Delta OD of a sample read in the cuvette channel with the same sample read
in the plate channel.

Perform the Absorbance Plate Test before performing the Cuvette Test.
If that test fails, the Cuvette Test results are suspect.

Materials

Manufacturer part numbers are subject to change.

l Standard cuvette with stopper


l Cuvette adapter plate, such as BioTek PN 7302030, or a Take3 plate
l If you have not already done so, prepare stock solution A or B as described
onpage 56

Prepare the Cuvette

Ensure that the microplate carrier is inside the reader before beginning
the cuvette read. If it is extended, press the carrier eject button to
move it back inside the reader.

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Cuvette Test | 65

Be sure to use a new cuvette because fingerprints or scratches may


cause variations in readings.

1. Using freshly prepared stock solution (A or B), prepare a 1:2 dilution using
deionized water (one part stock, one part deionized water).
2. Fill the cuvette with the diluted solution, and firmly seat the stopper. Try
to minimize the air bubble inside the cuvette because it will be read in a
horizontal position during this procedure.

Procedure

1. Create a Gen5 experiment using a cuvette and a kinetic step with a run
time of 18 seconds and an interval of 2 seconds, for a total of 10 reads.
2. Inside the kinetic step, create an absorbance read using two
wavelengths: 426 and 540.
3. Insert the cuvette into the holder in the reader.
4. Run the experiment. When finished, remove the cuvette from the reader.
5. Create another experiment, this one with a kinetic step with a run time of 1
minute, 15 seconds, an interval of 8 seconds, for a total of ten reads. Do not
select Cuvette.
6. Inside the kinetic step, create an absorbance read using two wavelengths:
426 and 540. Select well E11 if using the BioTek adapter plate or Take3
plate.If using another adapter plate, select the appropriate well.
7. Place the cuvette in the plate, and run the experiment. If you are using the
cuvette adapter, place the cuvette into the slot on the cuvette adapter
microplate furthest from the A1 well corner, and place the plate on the
carrier.

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66 | Chapter 5: Instrument Qualification

Analyze the Results

1. Cuvette channel read: Calculate the Mean Delta OD of the 10 Delta ODs.
2. Plate channel read: Calculate the Mean Delta OD of the 10 Delta ODs.
3. The specification of ±2% is used to compare the cuvette channel and the
plate channel readings, to accommodate for slight variations in dye
preparation and pipetting. Calculate the valid range: (Cuvette Channel Mean
Delta OD * 0.02 – Cuvette Channel Mean Delta OD) to (Cuvette Channel Mean Delta
OD * 0.02 + Cuvette Channel Mean Delta OD). The Plate Channel Mean Delta
OD value must be within this range to pass.

Troubleshooting
l When performing the test, be sure to use a new, clean cuvette.
Fingerprints on the cuvette can affect measurements.
l Air bubbles may be present inside the cuvette when read in the horizontal
position. Make sure that an air bubble does not interfere with the light
path.

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Cuvette Test | 67

l At the start of the test, a calibration step is performed. This step must be
performed with an empty cuvette holder.
l Keep the door closed for cuvette calibration and measurement.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


68 | Chapter 5: Instrument Qualification

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Appendix A

Specifications

This appendix contains BioTek's published specifications for


the Epoch 2.

General Specifications 70
Absorbance Specifications 71
70 | Appendix A: Specifications

General Specifications
Microplates

The Epoch 2 accommodates standard 6-, 12-, 24-, 48-, 96-, and 384-well
microplates with 128 x 86 mm geometry and the Take3 and Take3 Trio Micro-
Volume Plates, BioCell, and standard cuvettes.

Maximum plate height: 0.80"

Hardware and Environmental


Xenon flash light source, 5W maximum average
Light Source
power (not user-changeable)

Touch screen models: 15.5" D x 12.5" W x 13" H


(39.3 x 32 x 33 cm)
Dimensions:
Non-touch screen models: 15.5" D x 12.5" W x 8" H
(39.3 x 32 x 20.3 cm)

Touch screen models: 25 lbs (11.3 kg)


Weight:
Non-touch screen models: 20 lbs (9.1 kg)

Operational temperature range:

Environment: 18º to 40ºC (non-touch screen configurations)

18º to 30ºC (touch screen configurations)

Humidity: 10% to 85% relative humidity (non-condensing)

24-volt external power supply compatible with 100–


Power Supply:
240 V~; +/-10% @50–60 Hz

Power Consumption: 120W maximum

Temperature control ranges from 4ºC over ambient


to 65ºC.

Incubation (microplate Note: For incubation setpoints > 60ºC, ambient room
reading chamber only): temperature must be at least 22ºC.

Temperature variation ± 0.5ºC across the plate @


37ºC.

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Absorbance Specifications | 71

Linear:

Amplitude: 1 mm to 6 mm in 1-mm steps

Frequency*: ~18 Hz to ~6 Hz

Orbital Slow:

Amplitude: 1 mm to 6 mm in 1-mm steps

Frequency*: ~10 Hz to ~3 Hz

Orbital Fast:

Plate Shaking Amplitude: 1 mm to 6 mm in 1-mm steps

Frequency*: ~14 Hz to ~5 Hz

Double Orbital Slow:

Amplitude: 1 mm to 6 mm in 1-mm steps

Frequency*: ~10 Hz to ~3 Hz

Double Orbital Fast:

Amplitude: 1 mm to 6 mm in 1-mm steps

Frequency*: ~14 Hz to ~5 Hz

* Frequency is based on the amplitude selected.

Absorbance Specifications

The specifications listed here apply to both microplates and cuvettes.

Optics

Wavelength Range 200 to 999 nm

Wavelength Accuracy ± 2 nm

Wavelength Precision 0.2 nm (standard deviation)

Wavelength Bandpass 5 nm

Photodiodes (2). Measures are reference-channel-


Detector
corrected for light source fluctuation.

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72 | Appendix A: Specifications

Accuracy, Linearity, Repeatability

All qualifications were conducted using 96-/384-well microplates.

Measurement Range: 0.000 to 4.000 OD Resolution: 0.0001 OD

Accuracy 

96-well plate, normal read speed, 100-ms delay after plate movement

0.000–2.000 OD: +/-1% +/-0.010 OD

2.000–2.500 OD: +/-3% +/-0.010 OD

384-well plate, normal read speed, 100-ms delay after plate movement

0.000–1.500 OD: +/-2% +/-0.010 OD

1.500–2.000 OD: +/-5% +/-0.010 OD

96-well and 384-well plate, sweep read speed

0.000–1.000 OD: +/-1% +/-0.010 OD

Linearity

96-well plate, normal read speed, 100-ms delay after plate movement

0.000–2.000 OD: +/-1% +/-0.010 OD

2.000–2.500 OD: +/-3% +/-0.010 OD

384-well plate, normal read speed , 100-ms delay after plate movement

0.000–1.500 OD: +/-2% +/-0.010 OD

1.500–2.000 OD: +/-5% +/-0.010 OD

96-well and 384-well plate, sweep read speed

0.000–1.000 OD: +/-1% +/-0.010 OD

Repeatability

96-well, normal read speed, 100-ms delay after plate movement

0.000–2.000 OD: +/-1% +/-0.005 OD

2.000–2.500 OD: +/-3% +/-0.005 OD

384-well plate, normal read speed , 100-ms delay after plate movement

0.000–1.500 OD: +/-1% +/-0.005 OD

1.500–2.000 OD: +/-3% +/-0.005 OD

96-well and 384-well plate, sweep read speed

0.000–1.000 OD: +/-2% +/-0.010 OD

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Absorbance Specifications | 73

Read Speed
450 nm (sec) max Delay Time (msec)

Endpoint (start of plate motion to stop of plate motion)

96 well

Normal mode 74 100

Normal mode,
64 0
minimum delay time

Sweep 35 0 (at end of row)

384 well

Normal mode 192 100

Normal mode,
154 0
minimum delay time

Sweep 42 0 (at end of row)

Kinetic (A1 to A1)

96 well

Normal mode 50 100

Normal mode,
40 0
minimum delay time

Sweep 8 0 (at end of row)

384 well

Normal mode 170 100

Normal mode,
131 0
minimum delay time

Sweep 14 0 (at end of row)

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


74 | Appendix A: Specifications

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Appendix B

Error Codes

This appendix lists and describes Epoch 2 error codes that


may appear in Gen5.

Error Codes Overview 76


Error Codes 76
76 | Appendix B: Error Codes

Error Codes Overview


When a problem occurs during operation with the Epoch 2, an error code appears
in Gen5. Error codes typically contain four characters, such as “4168,” and in most
cases are accompanied by descriptive text. With many errors, the instrument will
beep repeatedly; press the carrier eject button to stop this alarm.
Some problems can be solved easily, whereas others can be solved only by trained
BioTek service personnel. This appendix lists the most common and easily resolved
error codes that you may encounter.

Error codes beginning with “A” (e.g., A100) indicate conditions that
require immediate attention. If this type of code appears, turn the
instrument off and on. If the system test does not conclude
successfully, record the error code and contact BioTek’s Technical
Assistance Center.

If an error code appears in Gen5, you should run a system test for diagnostic
purposes. In Gen5, select System > Diagnostics > Run System Test. Having
the system test report before calling the BioTek Technical Assistance Center can
speed the resolution of the error.

If an error message appears while an experiment is in process


and after having received measurement data, it is your
responsibility to determine if the data is valid.

Contact Info: BioTek Service/TAC


Use this appendix to diagnose problems and solve them if possible. If you need
further assistance, contact BioTek’s Technical Assistance Center.
Phone: 800-242-4685 (toll free in the U.S.)
802-655-4740 (outside the U.S.)
Fax: 802-654-0638
E-Mail: [email protected]

For errors that are displayed during operation of the Epoch 2 with the
stacker, refer to the BioStack Operator’s Manual.

Error Codes
This table lists the most common and easily resolved error codes that you may
encounter. If an error code appears in Gen5, look for it here. If you find the code,
follow the suggestions provided for solving the problem. If you cannot find the

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Error Codes | 77

code or if you are unable to solve the problem, please contact BioTek’s Technical
Assistance Center. The Gen5 Help system also provides troubleshooting tips.

Code Description and Probable Causes

0210 The x-axis home opto sensor failed to change as expected.

02x1 A y-axis opto sensor failed to change as expected.

x = 1 for the home sensor.

x = 2 for the test sensor.

Possible causes:

l Dirty axis rail where the bearings are worn and cause too much
friction.

l Defective or broken optical sensors or connection.

l Defective motor, motor controller, or connection.

l Broken or untensioned drive belt.

l Obstruction in read chamber.

l Check that the shipping screw has been removed.

Note: In cases where a sensor is not functioning, the motor may drive the
axis to its mechanical stop and generate substantial noise but will not cause
permanent damage.

Carrier x-axis failed positional verify.

Motor x-axis failed to reach the same position when moved a known
number of steps from the home position and back.
0400
Probable causes:

l Dirty linear bearing

l Obstruction in read chamber

Carrier y-axis failed positional verify.

0401 l Dirty linear bearing

l Obstruction in read chamber

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78 | Appendix B: Error Codes

Code Description and Probable Causes

Cuvette holder not empty during self-test.


0509
This error is caused when an empty cuvette is in the cuvette holder during a
self-test. Remove the cuvette from the holder to resolve the error.

070p Reference channel failed noise test greater than 20 counts


where p=0 for the plate and p =1 for the cuvette.
071p
Measurement channel failed noise test greater than 20 counts
where p=0 for the plate and p =1 for the cuvette.

This error indicates significant variations in background electronic noise


were detected, when blocking the light and increasing the gain to
maximum.

Probable causes:

l Electrical noise may be penetrating the measurement chamber.


The bottom and top shrouds are part of the electrical shielding.
Ensure that the screws connecting the bottom case to the top
case are installed and tight.

l There may be an ambient light leak. Ensure that the plate


carrier door is properly closed.

l Detector PCB or connection failure.

l Internal electronic noise may be caused by a faulty analog PCB


or faulty internal grounding.

BioTek Instruments, Inc.


Error Codes | 79

Code Description and Probable Causes

The reference (c = 0) or measurement (c = 1) channel dark


range is < 100 or > 32000 during spectral scan.

09c0 The reference channel dark range is < 100 during optical test
(readset 1–6).
0901–
0906 The measurement channel dark range is < 100 during optical
0911– test (readset 1–6).
0916
The reference channel dark current value has changed since the last optics
test measurement by more than 10%, or the dark value is less than 100.
The last number in the error code is the lambda table position number used
during the failure.

Probable causes:

l The photo-detector is more sensitive to temperature changes.

l Ambient light leakage during the read.

l Failed photo diode PCB. Contact BioTek TAC.

24VDC voltage error.

The 24VDC power to the motors was below the level needed to assure
correct performance.

0C00 Probable causes:

l Defective power supply, power cable, connection or Main PCB.

l Power supply connection at back of reader may be loose, or


connection from mains to power supply may be loose.

Wavelength not found in table (readset 1–6).

This error indicates that the specified wavelength is not detected in the
instrument’s filter table.
0E01-
0E06 Before the read, verify that the software filter table has the wavelengths
loaded into the instrument from the controlling PC software. If a
wavelength needs to be added, you must click Send Wavelengths in
Gen5. See Gen5 Help for more information about absorbance wavelengths.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


80 | Appendix B: Error Codes

Code Description and Probable Causes

1300 Carrier not homed in the x-axis.

1301 Carrier not homed in the y-axis.


1302
Order sorting filter wheel not homed.

This error is seen if an error 0210/02x1/0212 occurs and you attempt to use
the reader before a self-test is run. Run a self-test.

Temperature zone out of range (the last digit is the zone number
failing).
1501-
Thermistor failed—resistance out of range (the last digit is the
1504
zone number).
1511-
1514
A/D converter failed; incubator PCB defective.
1520
If this error occurs, you can try to rerun the protocol or turn on incubation
manually to ensure that the reader can reach and maintain its setpoint.

PC Command format error.

Probable causes:
1600
l The wrong version of Gen5 is being used.

l The USB driver or cable connection is defective.

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Error Codes | 81

Code Description and Probable Causes

Interval too short for selected options.


1700
This error indicates that the kinetic interval in the current assay is too
short. Increase the kinetic interval.

X-axis test sensor position incorrect.

2402 This error occurs at the start of an assay if the carrier fails to find the test
sensor where it is expected. Usually this is because the carrier was pushed
or restricted on its way into the instrument. Restart the read.

Area scan or custom well defined outside valid plate limits.

The combination of the Gen5 plate definition and the read mode (area scan
or endpoint) being used results in dimensions that cannot be used by this
reader.

2600 l Verify that plate dimensions are correct in Gen5 Plate Type
Database

l Check for nonstandard plate dimensions.

l Reduce the number of data points in an area scan.

l Reduce the well diameter used with an area scan.

Epoch 2 Operator's Manual


82 | Appendix B: Error Codes

BioTek Instruments, Inc.

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