DPC Micro Mix 5 Integration and control from the Biomek2000
The Micro Mix 5 is a Microplate based automatic plate Shaker. It has been integrated to the Biomek Left or Right Side Expansion Module. The Gripper automatically delivers and retrieves plates from the device or you may pipette directly onto the shaker. Communication from a serial port of the Biomek PC are utilized within a Biowork’s method to Automatically start plate shaking methods using the User Function command line tool. Shaking methods are pre-programmed into the MM5 from the front panel. Consult the MM5 manual for more information on front panel programming or consult the supplied help file for shaker operation.
Requirements
1. Biomek 2000 & Bioworks version 3.1c or greater will be required for this integration.
2. Gripper tool *Optional if pipetting directly
3. Available serial port on the PC.
4. Micro Mix 5 Shaker
BEFORE YOU START
To start the installation of this integration, you will need the following integration items:
1. REM/LEM bracket for attachment to the Biomek and Unimount base plate for the Micro Mix 5, (included with Acme-Automation integration kit)
2. Software installation disk i.e. UMix 5 driver software. (included Acme-Automation kit)
3. B2K legset. (included with Acme-Automation integration kit)
4. Micro Mix 5 shaker, from DPC products.
5. Properly aligned worksurface and R.E.M / L.E.M.
6. Available comport on the PC (use i/o card if required)
INSTALLATION
1. Communications Driver Software installation *Close all open programs
2. Insert floppy disk #1 , Click ‘Start’ , ‘Run’ A:\Setup from your desktop.
3. Follow the prompts. It is best if the install path is c:\Bioworks. This will make it easier to specify in the bioworks method (no path) i.e. uMix5.exe
4. When installed test software by clicking its icon under Start,Programs,uMix5.
You will have to click, File , Select commport, Save as default. Close the program and restart it to have the changes take effect. Make sure the shaker is on and connected. Then close it when you are happy with the operation. View its help screens F1, for more information.
Bracket mounting
Mechanical Installation
1. Install the B2K legset by tipping the Biomek on its back. ( use 2 people and always handle the Biomek by its deck. Insert setscrews into the Biomek base. Insert the feet into the standoff posts. Hand tighten the posts onto the setscrews. Upright the Biomek, then lower it onto the table. (be careful not to bend or break the feet). Level Biomek using a wrench on the flat portions at the base of the feet.
2. **Align worksurface and Left and Right Expansion Modules. Remove L.E.M. or REM
3. Mount the White base plate to the bracket with 5, 10-32 screws and feet, Level to the Biomek.
4. Mount bracket (longest portion forward) in place of L.E.M. or REM with 2, ¼-20 flathead screws.
5. Insert 2 Biomek labware holders into the acrylic top plate. I.e. Left most location for a REM installation and right most for a LEM installation. ( this is purposely a snug fit, support and press evenly. Do not remove these holders once mounted or damage may result). Remove the factory plate mount and screws from the shaker. Use 5 of the longer screws and the nylon standoffs to attach the top plate. 2 Additional springs may be added to the labware holders for better registration.
6. Set the shaker into the base plate.
Device creation in Bioworks
1. You will use the 2 logical devices name them something descriptive like:( uMix5@A1, uMix5@B1) you will use them in your initial configuration of any methods requiring the shaker.
2. HOW? *In Bioworks EDIT, click Edit ,Device, Select the labware holder device. Copy then name it. You should create 2 devices this way for the A or B positions.
3. Edit the Labware position difference fields X, Y, Z. Note that the reference point for each device is to its original R.E.M A1,B1 or L.E.M. A6,B6 position. +Z=Up , -X=Left, +Y=Front. All measurements are in mm. For a quick approach you can write and run a test method after temporarily increasing the Z fields +30-40mm to avoid collisions.
4. Test positioning by writing a short method with the devices in your initial configuration and then use the Stop/Trace functions to proceed to the A1 well position. Measure for any corrections required and edit the appropriate devices , Labware Position Difference fields, to center the position and height. Repeat until you are satisfied of position.
Tip. The Biomek does not always use the new values, if you do not close the Run module between adjustments. The following screen is an example only, actual values will have to be determined on your instrument.
Bioworks Functional testing
In the supplied Demo method there are examples of :
1. User functions. (also see uMix5.exe help screens)
2. Single and Multiple pipetting transfers.
TIP! To get the gripper or tool to move away either: write and insert a Bioscript that has one command, DH 2, call it up&away. or Pause the system for >12 seconds and the pod only will home. Do this before the user function.
Command line example for Bioworks
More examples exist in the uMix5.exe, help screen.
Amplitude of greater then 5 is usually to aggressive. You can double up the Labware holder springs with the wrench and 2 springs provided.
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