Epoch 2 Operators Manual - 1331002 Rev E
Epoch 2 Operators Manual - 1331002 Rev E
Epoch 2 Operators Manual - 1331002 Rev E
Epoch 2 TM
Operator’s Manual
Epoch™ 2
Microplate Spectrophotometer
Operator's Manual
Notices
BioTek® Instruments, Inc.
Highland Park, P.O. Box 998
Winooski, Vermont 05404-0998 USA
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.
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
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
Contact Information
BioTek® Instruments, Inc.
Highland Park, P.O. Box 998
Winooski, Vermont 05404-0998 USA
Revision History
Rev Date Changes
Document Conventions
A Warning indicates the potential for bodily harm and tells you how to
Warning!
avoid the problem.
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.
Warnings
Operate the instrument on a level, stable surface away from excessive
humidity.
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.
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.
CE Mark
Based on the testing described below and information
contained herein, this instrument bears the CE mark
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
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.
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.
Safety Symbols
Some of the following symbols may appear on the instrument or accessories:
Attenzione, rischio di
schiacciare ed intrappolarsi
Introduction
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.
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.
Package Contents
Package contents and part numbers are subject to change. Please contact BioTek
Customer Care with any questions.
Item Part #
varies according to
Power cord
country of use
USB cable 75108
Optional Accessories
Item Part #
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.
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.
Installation
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
l Set the Com Port to the computer's COM port to which the reader is
connected.
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:
If you remain unable to get Gen5 and the reader to communicate with
each other, contact BioTek’s Technical Assistance Center.
Wait until the incubator temperature reaches the set point before
continuing.
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.
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.
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.
If you plan to use the HP wireless mouse that was supplied with the reader:
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.
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.
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.
Remove the microplate from the carrier before shipment. Spilled fluids can
contaminate the optics and damage the instrument.
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.
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.
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.
Getting Started
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.
The assay plate must match the plate type selected in Gen5.
Otherwise, the results of the read may be invalid.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
Using Gen5 TS
This section briefly discusses common tasks. See the Gen5 TS Help for
more detailed information.
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 Select Protocol > Open. In the Open dialog, tap to import from the
USB stick.
l For other files, such as sample names, Import and Export commands are
provided in relevant dialogs.
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.
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.
4. On the Pointer Options tab, use the slider under Motion to set the desired
speed for pointer moverment, then click Apply.
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.
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
Preventive Maintenance
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
Warning! Internal Voltage. Turn off and unplug the instrument for all
maintenance and repair operations.
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.
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
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.
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.
Required Materials
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.
Instrument Qualification
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.
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.
IQ OQ PQ
Tasks/Tests Initially/
Initially Monthly Quarterly
Annually
All models:
System Test ü 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.
If the test continues to fail, or if the cause is not something you can fix, contact
BioTek’s Technical Assistance Center.
To run this test, you need the BioTek Absorbance Test Plate (PN 7260522), with its
accompanying data sheet.
The instructions provided below are guidelines. Refer to the Gen5 Help
system for more information.
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.
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
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.
1. From the Gen5 main screen, click System > Diagnostics > Test Plates
> Run.
You need to select only those wavelengths most appropriate for your
use of the reader.
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.
Alkaline
o-nitrophenyl phosphate 3N sodium hydroxide
Phosphate
beta-
o-nitrophenyl -beta-D galactopyranoside 1M sodium carbonate
Galactosidase
Materials
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
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.
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.
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
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
Materials
Tube Number 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
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.
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.
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:
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:
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.
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:
Materials
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 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.
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.
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:
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:
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
Specifications
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.
Incubation (microplate Note: For incubation setpoints > 60ºC, ambient room
reading chamber only): temperature must be at least 22ºC.
Linear:
Frequency*: ~18 Hz to ~6 Hz
Orbital Slow:
Frequency*: ~10 Hz to ~3 Hz
Orbital Fast:
Frequency*: ~14 Hz to ~5 Hz
Frequency*: ~10 Hz to ~3 Hz
Frequency*: ~14 Hz to ~5 Hz
Absorbance Specifications
Optics
Wavelength Accuracy ± 2 nm
Wavelength Bandpass 5 nm
Accuracy
96-well plate, normal read speed, 100-ms delay after plate movement
384-well plate, normal read speed, 100-ms delay after plate movement
Linearity
96-well plate, normal read speed, 100-ms delay after plate movement
384-well plate, normal read speed , 100-ms delay after plate movement
Repeatability
384-well plate, normal read speed , 100-ms delay after plate movement
Read Speed
450 nm (sec) max Delay Time (msec)
96 well
Normal mode,
64 0
minimum delay time
384 well
Normal mode,
154 0
minimum delay time
96 well
Normal mode,
40 0
minimum delay time
384 well
Normal mode,
131 0
minimum delay time
Error Codes
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.
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
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.
Possible causes:
l Dirty axis rail where the bearings are worn and cause too much
friction.
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.
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:
Probable causes:
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:
The 24VDC power to the motors was below the level needed to assure
correct performance.
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.
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.
Probable causes:
1600
l The wrong version of Gen5 is being used.
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.
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