IMark Microplate Absorbance Reader
IMark Microplate Absorbance Reader
IMark Microplate Absorbance Reader
Instruction Manual
Warranty Statement
This warranty may vary outside of the continental United States. Contact your local Bio-Rad office for the
exact terms of your warranty.
Bio-Rad Laboratories warrants to the customer that the iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader will be free
from defects in material and workmanship, and will meet all performance specifications for a period of one
year from the date of shipment. This warranty covers all parts and labor.
In the event that the instrument must be returned to the factory for repair under warranty, the instrument
must be packed for return in original packaging. Please contact your local Bio-Rad representative for the
necessary return documents. The required documentation includes a decontamination certificate.
Bio-Rad shall not be liable for any incidental, special, or consequential loss, damage, or expense directly or
indirectly arising from the use of the iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader. Bio-Rad makes no warranty
whatsoever in regard to products or parts furnished by third parties, such being subject to the warranty of
their respective manufacturers. Service under this warranty shall be requested by contacting your nearest
Bio-Rad office.
The following items are considered customer-installable consumables: thermal printer paper and light
bulbs. These parts are not covered by this warranty. All customer-installed parts are warranted only to be
free from defects in workmanship. This warranty does not extend to any instrument or parts thereof that
have been subject to misuse, neglect, or accident, or that have been modified by anyone other than Bio-Rad
or that have been used in violation of Bio-Rad instructions.
The foregoing obligations are in lieu of all other obligations and liabilities including negligence and all
warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or otherwise expressed or implied in fact or
by law, and state Bio-Rads entire and exclusive liability and buyers exclusive remedy for any claims or
damages in connection with the furnishing of goods or parts, their design, suitability for use, installation or
operation. Bio-Rad will in no event be liable for any special, incidental or consequential damages
whatsoever, and Bio-Rads liability under no circumstances will exceed the contract price for the goods for
which liability is claimed.
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Regulatory Notices
Electro Magnetic Compatibility:
This instrument is designed to meet the Class-A emissions and immunity levels of the EN 61326 product
family standard for the CE mark. This rating requires that it only be used in a laboratory environment.
NOTE: 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 equipment in a residential area is likely to
cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his/her own
expense.
Safety
This instrument is designed to meet EN 61010-1 requirements for the CE mark, which are internationally
accepted safety standards for electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use. EN
61010-1 applies to equipment which is used under the following conditions:
Indoor use
Altitude up to 2,000 m
MAINS supply voltage fluctuations up to 10%
This instrument has been tested, and its compliance has been confirmed under the following environmental
conditions:
Overvoltage category II
Pollution degree 2
If the instrument is used in a manner not specified in this manual, the protection provided by the instrument
may be impaired. This instrument should not be modified or altered in any way. Alteration of this
instrument will result in the following:
Void the manufactures warranty.
Void regulatory compliance.
Create a potential safety hazard.
Protective Ground
This instrument has a detachable, three-wire power cord for connection to both the power source and
protective ground. The protective ground contact is connected to the accessible metal parts of the
instrument. To prevent electrical shock, always use a power source outlet that has a properly grounded
protective-ground contact.
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Table of Contents
Introduction .................................................................................................. 1
Description .........................................................................................................1
USB Interface .....................................................................................................1
Built-in Printer ....................................................................................................1
External Features.................................................................................................3
Keypad Guide .....................................................................................................4
Software Overview......................................................................................... 7
Capabilities.........................................................................................................7
Quick Guide to Reading a Plate ............................................................................7
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Screen by Screen Procedures ......................................................................... 17
Initial Startup ....................................................................................................17
Configuring the System......................................................................................18
Printing Reports and Protocol information............................................................20
Memory Recall Operation ..................................................................................21
Editing the Kinetic Protocol................................................................................22
Checkmark Value Setting (Administrator only).....................................................24
Editing End Point Protocol .................................................................................25
Cutoff Setting Procedure ....................................................................................26
Standard Setting Procedure.................................................................................29
Mode Setting Procedure .....................................................................................32
Plate Map Setting Procedure...............................................................................33
Instrument Maintenance................................................................................ 36
Installing Interference Filters ..............................................................................36
Changing the Lamp ...........................................................................................36
Instrument Specifications.............................................................................. 39
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Introduction
Description
The iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader (catalog #168-1130) is an eight-channel, vertical pathlength
photometer that measures the absorbance of the contents in the wells of a 96-well microtitration plates. It can
perform single or dual wavelength measurements and can report absorbance values to three decimal places.
The iMark reader can be programmed by entering commands through the membrane keypad to define plate
reading and data analysis parameters as testing protocols and select report types. Hard copy reports can be
produced by an optional on-board thermal printer or external printer.
The iMark reader can also be controlled by the Windows-based Microplate Manager software (catalog #
168-9520) program, through its built-in USB 2.0 interface device. Microplate Manager software provides a
complete, user-friendly solution for protocol programming as well as data analysis, for all microplate absorbance
readers from Bio-Rad Laboratories.
USB Interface
The iMark Microplate Reader has a built-in USB interface. This allows external computers to control the
instrument. When an external computer is in control of the microplate reader, the printer and the membrane keys,
except for the Start/Stop and Open/Close keys, are automatically deactivated, and the LCD display appears as
below.
Remote mode
The reader will remain in remote control mode until it is released or until the Start/Stop key is pressed on the
reader.
Built-in Printer
The iMark Microplate Reader has a built-in printer. It can generate all types of reports, including graphs and
kinetic plots.
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Catalog # Description
168-1130 iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader with built-in printer
168-1135 iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader with built-in printer,
including Microplate Manager 6 software
168-6940 Checkmark Absorbance Reader Performance Validation Kit
Accessories
Catalog # Description
168-1011 405 nm filter
168-1013 415 nm filter
168-1020 450 nm filter
168-1028 490 nm filter
168-1038 540 nm filter
168-1040 550 nm filter
168-1044 570 nm filter
168-1049 595 nm filter
168-1054 620 nm filter
168-1056 630 nm filter
168-1061 655 nm filter
168-1080 750 nm filter
Custom filters between 400 and 750 nm may be ordered. Corresponding catalog numbers can be found on
www.bio-rad.com, or you can order by specifying the wavelength and the model number of the reader.
Checkmark Absorbance Reader Performance Validation Kit (catalog item 168-6940) consists of a plate with
absorbance standards and software to calculate the accuracy and precision of the iMark Microplate Absorbance
Reader.
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Keypad
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Keypad Guide
Main Returns to MAIN SCREEN.
Open/Close Memory
Edit
Start/Stop Initiates plate reading using current active protocol. Recall
START
Stops plate reading and printing. /
Paper Feed Advances paper strip in internal printer. STOP
Main Paper Feed Print
Print Prints out the plate data and protocol information.
Edit Enters the Edit Menu, and sets up the instrument.
Memory Recall Reads out protocol and plate data.
Open/Close Opens or closes the reading chamber door.
6 / CAL : Calibrator 4 5 6
2 / BLK : Blank SMP BLK STD
7 / CP : Positive Control
1 2 3
3 / STD : Standard
8 / CN : Negative Control EMP FUNC
4 / CO : Cutoff control 0 0
9 / CW : Weak Positive Control
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Instrument Setup
Unpacking the Instrument
The shipping carton contains the following items:
iMark Microplate Reader, with 415 nm, 450 nm, 490 nm, 595 nm, 655 nm, and 750 nm interference
filters installed on the filter wheel
Power cord
USB cable
Dust cover
Instruction manual
Warranty card
One roll of thermal printer paper
Inspect the exterior of the instrument for any signs of shipping damage. Contact your local Bio-Rad
representative if any of these items are damaged or missing.
Initial Instrument Startup
1. Place the instrument on a clean, sturdy table or bench. It is important to keep the instrument in a clean,
relatively dust free environment to ensure optimal performance.
2. Connect the power cord to the back of the instrument. Before connecting the instrument to the main
electrical supply, check that the AC voltage is appropriate for the instrument.
3. To turn the power on press the green power button on the top of the instrument. The LCD will display the
version number of the on-board firmware. After about three seconds, the instrument will perform an
initial self-diagnosis that requires about fifteen seconds. The login screen displays for you to choose
your user level (administrator or common user), and enter the password (initial password: 00000).
Please allow three minutes for the instrument to warm up (reach thermal equilibrium) before reading
plates.
System Login
User: Administrator
Password:*****
Press ENTER
Change password
Select Change Password in the Security Menu.
Enter the current Password then move the cursor to the 3rd line and enter a new password. Press
Enter to complete the field entry. The system will return to the previous Security Menu.
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
4. Install the printer paper. The thermal printer paper is printable on one side only and must be properly
installed for the printer to function. The outside of the roll is the printable side.
a. Open the rear cover of the instrument.
b. Tear off a small piece at the beginning of a new roll at an angle to form
a point.
c. Place the roll of paper in the small pan-like holder positioned below
the printer. The roll should be positioned so that it will feed from the
bottom.
d. While pressing the PAPER FEED key, feed the pointed end of the
paper into the paper feed slot in the underside of the printer until the
printer grabs the paper and feeds it through the slot in the top of the
instrument.
e. Securely close the rear compartment.
Multi-language support
The iMark LCD can produce text in three languages; English, Russian and Chinese. To switch to English from
Russian or Chinese, press the Main button, then the Edit button to get to the configuration screen. Press the
downward-pointing arrow on the key pad six times to navigate to the language options line. Press Enter twice to
select English, and then press Enter a third time to shut down the reader. When restarted, the iMark will display in
English.
Instrument Shutdown
To shut down the instrument, press the green power button on the top of the instrument for a few seconds. Then
the LCD will display a Power off, Yes or No screen. Select Yes to shut down the instrument.
Power off
>>Yes No
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Software Overview
Capabilities
The iMark Microplate Reader has on-board software that allows the user to set the plate reading and data analysis
conditions, to save these settings as a test protocol, to read a microplate under this protocol, and to print reports
from the built-in printer. The software communicates through the 4-line, 20-character LCD and is controlled
through the instrument's membrane keypad.
The software has three different protocol types: End-point analysis, Kinetic analysis, and Checkmark validation.
The Checkmark validation function is used only by the administrator to verify quality control.
The display shows the current mode. The user can choose between these protocol types, or can press the Memory
Recall key to use the current protocol type.
Quick Guide to Reading a Plate
1. Turn on the instrument. Allow about 30 seconds for self-diagnosis. The instrument needs to warm up for
about three minutes prior to reading a plate.
2. Upon power up, the login screen will appear. Enter the login password (initial password: 00000), press
Enter.
3. Program a protocol for your assay. See page 22 for information on Editing a Kinetic protocol, or page 25
for Editing an End Point Protocol. Make sure filters installed correlate with information entered in reader
firmware.
4. Select the protocol of choice, if programmed. See the Memory Recall section on page 21 for detailed
operation.
5. Review or print parameters set in the protocol. See the Editing End Point Protocol section on page 25 for
details.
6. Verify settings on Cutoff, Report, Limit, STDs, Mode, Mapping, and kit name parameters are as desired.
7. Protocol setting can be printed; see the Printing Reports and Protocols section on page 20 for
information.
8. All reports other than the raw data report require plate mapping. Set the plate map with instructions from
the Plate Map Setting Procedure section on page 33.
9. The Matrix and Limit reports require assignment of upper and lower limits. Set the upper and lower
limits in the Editing End Point Protocol Limit setting window.
10. The Cutoff report requires definition of the cutoff setting. Refer to the Cutoff Setting Procedure section
on page 26.
11. The Curve fit and Concentration reports require that standard concentration and locations must be
defined. Refer to page 29 for details on how to define the standards and the curve fit parameters.
12. Set the general reading mode (single or dual wavelength reading, plate shaking, read mode) following the
instructions in the Mode Setting Procedure section on page 32.
After warm-up is complete:
13. Press the Main key. The main screen appears on the LCD.
14. Carefully place the microplate in the reading chamber. Press the Start/Stop key to read.
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Instrument Functions
Calculations
The Microplate Reader uses Beer's Law to calculate the absorbance value of each well. Beer's Law states that
absorbance is equal to the log10 of the ratio of the baseline measurement intensity (Io) to the sample
measurement intensity (I).
Beer's Law: Absorbance = Log10 (Io/I)
Before measuring the plate, the reader takes a reading for all eight photodiode channels. These values are
recorded as the baseline measurement (Io) values for each channel, respectively. The reader then records the
sample measurement (I) value for each well, and calculates the absorbance using these values.
Channel-to-channel error is significantly reduced because the Io value for a given channel is used only in
determining the absorbance of the wells of that channel.
Security password
The iMark Microplate Reader requires a user login with password. This security feature helps to prevent any
unwarranted modifications to the analysis conditions/protocols and data stored in the instrument, and identifies
the operator on reports. The reader has two user settings, the Administrator and the Common user. Each user level
has its own security password.
Memory Back-Up
The battery back-up provides memory even after the reader is turned off.
The following information will be saved in the memory until new reading parameters are set by the user or a new
plate is read by the instrument. Note that if a run is aborted before it is finished, all the previous plate reading data
remain in memory and none of the data from the aborted reading is stored.
The ten latest sets of End-point protocol plate reading results
The two latest sets of Kinetic plate reading results (max. 30 series of readings for each Kinetic
Protocol)
64 End-point Protocol settings and 2 Kinetic Protocol settings
A set of Checkmark reference data and the one latest set of Checkmark reading result
A set of standard curve data for the storage of standard curves and graphs
Eight wavelength values for filters
Laboratory name
Two security passwords (for the Administrator and the Common user)
Instrument serial number
In addition to the battery back-up memory, the instrument has a small amount of non-volatile memory to keep the
system information after the battery is dead. The serial number is stored in this memory. The average battery life
is 5 years.
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
The first time the instrument is turned on, or after a battery failure, the following default information is held in the
memory.
1. Both Administrator and Common user security passwords are set to "00000".
2. Laboratory name is "Bio-Rad Laboratories".
3. All wavelength values of the filters are set to "---" nm.
4. The date and time of the calendar chip are set to 1 day, 1 month, 00 year, 0 hour and 0 minute.
5. No plate reading data is available.
6. End-point protocol is chosen and the protocol number is set to #1.
7. No standard curve data for the storage of standard curves and graphs is available.
Limits
The Microplate Reader displays absorbance readings with absolute values as 3.500. Out-of-range absorbance
values, (those with absolute values greater than 3.500) are displayed as either "*.***" or "-*.***". For example, if
the absorbance is 4.500, then the display will read "*.***", and if the absorbance is -4.500, the display will read
"-*.***".
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Report Types
Two types of reports can be generated; End-point protocol, and Kinetic protocol. Each of these and their subtypes
are described below. After these descriptions, there are flow diagrams that show how to access specific choices.
End-point Protocol Reports
Nine types of End-Point Protocol reports can be generated: raw data, absorbance, limit, matrix, cutoff, curve fit,
concentration, difference, and TeSeE screening reports.
1. Raw data report
The Raw data report is the uncorrected absorbance values (without blank subtraction). In single-wavelength
mode, the reported value is the measured absorbance. In dual-wavelength mode, the reported value is the
difference between the uncorrected readings taken with the measurement filter and with the reference filter.
2. Absorbance report
The Absorbance report is the blank-corrected absorbance values. The mean absorbance value of all of the wells
designated as assay blanks is calculated and then subtracted from all 96 values of the raw data set to produce the
Absorbance report.
Abs = Raw Blank mean
Blank mean = X/n
S.D. = [{X^2 n*(Blank mean)^2}/{n-1}]^1/2
Where:
S.D. = Standard deviation
X = Sum total of the raw absorbance for each blank
X^2 = Sum total of the squared raw absorbance for each blank
n = Number of blanks
3. Limit report
The Limit report provides a qualitative YES/NO report. Wells with blank-subtracted absorbance values between
the upper and lower limits are represented with an asterisk (*), wells with absorbance values below the lower
limit by minus signs (-), and wells with absorbance values greater than the upper limit by positive signs (+).
4. Matrix report
The Matrix report provides a qualitative report of the relative magnitude of the absorbance values on the plate.
The absorbance range defined by the upper and lower limits is divided into 10 equal partitions, numbered 0
through 9. The blank-subtracted absorbance value of each well is classified according to the partition of the
matrix to which it corresponds, and is reported as a signal digit. Wells with absorbance values greater than the
upper limit are reported by plus signs (+), and wells with absorbance values less than the lower limit by minus
signs (-).
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
5. Cutoff report
The Cutoff report provides a qualitative report of the relative magnitude of the absorbance values or converted
concentrations on the plate.
Four types of cutoff reports are supported; ranged constant, single constant, formula and ratio. These and their
subtypes are listed below.
a. Ranged Constant
The user inputs Positive and Negative values to be used as the cutoff.
For units designated "Abs", if the absorbance of a well is within the positive and negative cutoff values, the
well is scored "*". If the absorbance of a well is greater than the positive value, the well is scored "+", and if
the absorbance of a well is below the negative value, the well is scored "-".
For units not designated "Abs", the absorbance value of each well is converted to the concentration value
using the curve fit constants of the curve fit report. If the concentration of a well is within the positive and
negative cutoff values, the well is scored "*". If the concentration of a well is greater than the positive value,
the well is scored "+", and if the concentration of a well is below the negative value, the well is scored "-".
b. Single Constant
The user inputs Positive and Gray zone values to be used as the cutoff.
For units designated "Abs", if the absorbance of a well is within the gray zone value of the positive cutoff
value, the well is scored "*". If the absorbance of a well is more than the gray zone value and greater than the
positive value, the well is scored "+", and if the absorbance of a well is more than the gray zone value below
the positive value, the well is scored "-".
Upper cutoff absorbance = Positive absorbance + ((Gray zone/100) * Positive absorbance)
Lower cutoff absorbance = Positive absorbance ((Gray zone/100) * Positive absorbance)
For units not designated "Abs", the absorbance value of each well is converted to the concentration value
using the curve fit constants of the curve fit report. If the concentration of a well is within the gray zone value
of the positive cutoff value, the well is scored "*". If the concentration of a well is more than the gray zone
value greater than the positive value, the well is scored "+", and if the concentration of a well is more than the
gray zone value below the positive value, the well is scored "-".
Upper cutoff conc. = Conc. of positive controls + ((Gray zone/100) * Conc. of positive controls)
Lower cutoff conc. = Conc. of positive controls - ((Gray zone/100) * Conc. of positive controls)
c. Formula
The mean absorbance values of the Positive and Negative wells defined in the plate map are used for the
cutoff formula calculation.
The 12 types of formula-based cutoff reports are:
i. k * CNx vii. k + CNx
ii. k * CPx viii. k + CPx
iii. k * COx ix. k + COx
iv. CNx / k x. k*CNx + CPx
v. CPx / k xi. xi (CNx + CPx) / k
vi. COx / k xii. k1*CNx + k2*CPx
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
The result absorbance value of the formula calculation and the gray zone value that is entered by the user are
used for the cutoff.
The upper and lower cutoff values are:
Upper cutoff absorbance = Result of a Formula + ((Gray zone/100) * Result of a Formula)
Lower cutoff absorbance = Result of a Formula - ((Gray zone/100) * Result of a Formula)
The absorbance range of the upper and lower cutoff is divided into 10 equal partitions, numbered 0 through 9.
The absorbance value of each well is classified according to the partition of the matrix to which it
corresponds and is reported as a signal digit. Wells with absorbance values greater than the upper cutoff are
reported by plus signs (+), and wells with absorbance values less than the lower cutoff by minus signs (-).
d. Ratio
The mean absorbance value of the Calibrator wells defined in the plate map and the concentration value
entered by the user are used for the cutoff ratio. Before the cutoff, the absorbance value of each well is
converted into the concentration value. The ratio of Concentration/Absorbance of Calibrator is applied to
the conversion. Then, the cutoff is done with the defined Positive and Negative or the defined Positive and
Gray zone values.
The onboard software calculates the best fit of the defined curve between each set of two consecutive data points
in the standard curve of absorbance vs. concentration. And then it generates the report with the coefficients of
regression, the correlation coefficient, and the standard error.
For readers with the optional internal printer or with an external ESC/P printer which accepts ESC/P code, a
graph of the standard curve may be generated when selected in the report parameter.
7. Concentration Report
In case of the curve fit, the Concentration report also provides the regression analysis. After the calculation of the
curve fit, it calculates the concentrations values of the samples, and generates the report.
In case of the cutoff constant with the unit not designated "Abs" and in case of the cutoff ratio, the reader
generates the list of concentration of each well.
8. Difference Report
The Difference report is the subtraction report between the neighboring columns or row.
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Concentration 0 - 9999
Ratio
Unit 17 choices of unit
Ranged
Cutoff Values setting
Cutoff value Cutoff
Gray zone setting when single Cutoff
Single
Cutoff
Raw(Raw data), Abs(Absorbance), Lim(Limit), Mtx(Matrix), Cut(Cutoff)
Report Crv(Curve fit), Cnc(Concentration), Dif(Difference)
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Report Absorbance, KINETIC Plots, Linear regression when General Kinetic Assay selected
GALT report when GALT Kinetic assay selected
.Func key to switch from [ABC] to [abc] to [sym]
Kit name
key to move cursor
Language Select Language Choices of pre-installed language for LCD and report printout
Special Buttons
Report
Print Protocol Printout
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Initial Startup
Self-diagnosis Self-Diagnosis
iMark
Microplate Reader
This screen will appear upon power-up and during self-diagnosis. Date and time are also
13:05 18/09/01 indicated on this screen.
Initialization
Initializing reader
After self-diagnosis, the system initializes all the hardware.
Login SCREEN
System Login Security Check
User: Administrator
Password:*****
The system requires a password to confirm that the user is the authorized operator.
Press ENTER Pressing the Change/Right arrow key will switch the user mode between Common user and
Administrator.
Password for both Common user and Administrator is set as 00000 upon factory shipment.
Operator can change the password in the EDIT menu. See Security.
MAIN SCREEN
01:EndPoint Assay01
System Ready
M405(1)R655(6) When this MAIN screen is on the LCD, the Start/Stop key can be pressed for microplate
Shake:999s,Mid
38.2/40.2 18/09/01 reading. Pressing Start/Stop key will begin reading with the current protocol.
There are three kinds of MAIN screens, depending on the current protocol type: Endpoint,
End point mode Kinetic, and Checkmark program.
01:Kinetic-1 The four arrow keys, Numeral keys, Main key and Enter key are inactive.
M405(1)R605(6)30read Start/Stop, Memory Recall, Edit, Print and Paper Feed keys are active.
Shake:999s,Mid,Every
38.2/40.2 18/09/01
Kinetic mode
Checkmark
Validation Program
18/09/01
Checkmark mode
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Protocol
Security
Lab.name
SaveSTDC Edit Menu
Filters Language This menu can be accessed by pressing the Edit key in the MAIN SCREEN.
Date set LCD adj
Security Menu
Security function
Change Password
Security Setting
Change user Select Security in the Edit Menu screen, and press Enter. The Security Menu appears
Lock/Unlock Prtl on the screen.
Change Password
Change Password Change Password
Current:***** Select Change Password in the Security Menu.
New:*****
Common user Enter the current password then move the cursor to the 3rd line and enter a
new password. Press Enter to complete the field entry. The system will
return to the previous Security Menu.
Change user
Change User Mode
System Login
User: Administrator
Select Change user in the Security Menu.
Password:***** Select a desired user mode by pressing the Right Arrow key. Enter the
Press ENTER
appropriate Password for the selected user mode. Press Enter to complete the
field entry. The system will return to the previous Security Menu.
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Filter
Filter Setting
1:400nm 5:650nm
2:450nm 6:...nm
Move the cursor to the desired position by using the Up, Down, and Right arrow keys.
3:475nm 7:...nm Enter the filter wavelength on the selected position using the number keys.
4:650nm 8:...nm
If the selected position of the filter disk is empty, enter three ....
Press Enter to complete the field entry. The system will return to the previous Edit
Menu screen.
Save STDC
Save STDC Setting
Save STD Curve
> Save STD Curve Select Save STDC in Edit Menu screen above, and press Enter. The Save STD
Rename STD Curve Curve Menu appears on the screen.
Move the cursor to the desired position by using the Up and Down arrow keys.
If the curve fit calculation is not done, or has not finished successfully, an error
STD curve does not message will appear and the STD Curve will not be saved.
exist yet.
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Language
Select Language Changing Language
English *******
*******
Select a desired language using the Up and Down arrow keys, and press Enter to
******* complete the selection. The system will generate a message for an immediate power off
to restart.
Select Yes and press Enter to activate the selected new language.
Power off The newly-changed language will be applied to the LCD screen and printed reports.
>>Yes No
LCD adj
LCD Contrast Adjusting LCD Contrast
12345678901234567890 Adjust LCD contrast by using the Right and Left arrow keys, and press Enter to
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ENTER to complete complete the adjustment.
Print Menu
Print menu Print Menu
Reports
Protocol Access this menu screen by pressing the Print key in the MAIN screen.
Printing Reports
Select Reports and press Enter to print the current active plate data report.
Stop Printing
Press the Start/Stop key during printing to stop the print job immediately.
When printing is completed, the system automatically returns to the MAIN screen.
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
End Point
Select Protocol #02
Selecting Protocol
*Protocol -2 Move the cursor to the position of the desired protocol and press Enter to
! Protocol -3
Protocol -4
complete the selection.
Checkmark
There is no protocol selection with Checkmark.
Checkmark program
has been activated. When a protocol is selected, the system will then automatically return to the
Press any key MAIN screen.
End Point
01 20/05/00 14:00 Selecting Plate Data
02*21/05/00 17:00
03 20/05/00 18:00
Move the cursor to the position of the desired plate data and press Enter to
0420/05/00 19:00 complete the selection.
Kinetic
NOTE: * indicates the currently activated plate data.
01*20/05/00 09:00
0220/05/00 10:00
Checkmark
20/05/01 09:00
There is only one storage for Checkmark data.
When plate data is selected, the system automatically returns to the MAIN
screen.
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Edit Menu
Protocol Lab.name This menu screen can be accessed by pressing the Edit key in the MAIN screen.
Security SaveSTDC
Filters Printer
Date set
Kinetic Mode
Reading Speed This menu screen can be accessed by selecting Mode in the Kinetic Protocol menu
Inter.
Shaking
above.
Ph.mode
Inter.
Use same interval Setting Reading Intervals
between all reads?
Yes No
The system prompts the operator to set a reading interval before each plate run.
Move the cursor to the desired selection Yes or No and press Enter. The
system generates the interval entry screen.
1->2: 100 sec Move to the active entry field by pressing the Up and Down arrow keys, and enter
2->3: 100 sec
3->4: 100 sec appropriate numbers using numeral keys. Press Enter to complete all field entries.
4->5: 100 sec The system will return to the Kinetic Mode menu.
Speed
Selecting Reading Speed
Reading speed
[Fast mode]
Use the Up or Down arrow keys to switch the selection. Press Enter to complete
Step mode the selection.
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Mapping
Select Mapping mode Plate Mapping
Manual mapping See Plate Map setting procedure.
Automatic mapping
Assay
Assay type selection
Selecting Kinetic Assay Type
[General KINETIC] Move the cursor to the desired Assay type by pressing the Up or Down arrow keys.
GALT assay
Press Enter to complete the selection.
The item with mark [ ] is the currently selected item.
GALT assay: Result = factor x (2nd Read 1st Read)
Report
[Lin.regression]
Selecting Report Type
Absorbance Move the cursor to the desired report type by pressing the Up or Down arrow keys.
KINETIC Plots
Pressing the Right arrow key will select or deselect the item.
Press Enter to complete the selection.
Note: When GALT assay is selected GALT report shall be the only one option on
this screen.
Kit name
Kit name for #01 Setting the Kit Name
G.A.P. TEST IgG Use the Up and Down arrow keys to select alphabet from A to Z and space.
[ABC] Use the Number keys for numeric input.
Use the Right arrow key to move the cursor to the right.
Use the Left arrow key to return to the Protocol Menu screen.
Pressing ./FUNC key will change the character mode: Upper case alphabet -> Lower
case alphabet -> symbol. The current character mode is indicated on the lower right
corner of the LCD.
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Edit Menu
Protocol Lab.name
Security SaveSTDC
This menu screen can be accessed by pressing the Edit key in the MAIN screen.
Filters Printer
Date set
Serial #/Report
Setting the Serial Number and Report Type
Serial #: 0000 Pressing the Up and Down arrow keys will move the cursor and change the field
Rep.type: Simple
entry.
When Serial # field is active, enter the serial number that will be shown in the data
sheet of the Checkmark plate using the numeral keys.
When the Rep. type field is active, pressing the Right arrow key will switch the
report type between Simple and Full.
Linearity reference
405nm S1:0.158 Setting the Linearity Reference Value
Linearity S2:0.309 Pressing the Up or Down arrow keys will move the field entry from S1 to S4.
reference S3:1.401
S4:2.109 Pressing the Right arrow key will change the wavelength:
405 nm->450 nm->492 nm->540 nm->620 nm->690 nm
Use the numeral keys for the reference value setting.
Pressing Enter will complete all field entries at all wavelength.
Max. CV%
Max.CV% S1:15%
Max. CV% setting
Linearity S2:05% Pressing the Up or Down arrow keys will move the field entry from S1 to S4.
reference S3:02%
S4:02% Use the numeral keys for the Max. CV% setting. Press Enter to complete all field
entries.
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Edit Menu
Protocol Lab.name This menu screen can be accessed by pressing the Edit key in the MAIN screen.
Security SaveSTDC
Filters Printer
Date set
Cutoff
[Not use] Ratio See Cutoff setting procedure
Constant
Contrl
Formula
STDs
Standard menu See Standard setting procedure.
STD information
Curvefit
Recall STD Curve
Mode
Set photo mode See Mode setting procedure.
Set shaking
Set read mode
Mapping
Select mapping mode See Plate Map setting procedure.
Manual mapping
Automatic mapping
Kit name
Kit name for #01 See Kit name setting in Editing Kinetic Protocol.
G.A.P. TEST IgG
[ABC]
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
a. Cutoff Constant
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
b. Cutoff Control
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
k1 * CNx + k2 * CPx
d. Cutoff Ratio
Concentration: 9999
Concentration of Calibrator
Concentration unit: mol/l The Numerical keys and the Decimal point key are used to enter
the calibrator concentration value. The Enter key sets the value and
returns to the previous screen.
Unit of Calibrator
01: ug/dl
Unit 02: ng/ml Seventeen standard units are supported. The unit marked with
03:[ pg/ml] [ ] is the current selection.
04: pm/ml
The setting procedure is the same as the unit selection of Standards.
Single cutoff
Positive >= 9999 Single Cutoff Control
Gray zone: 50% The Numerical keys are used to enter the Positive cutoff
Unit: mol/l concentration value and gray zone value. The Enter key sets these
cutoff ratio values and returns to the previous screen.
Ranged cutoff
Positive >= 9999 Ranged Cutoff Control
Negative < 9999
Negative<Positive
The Numerical keys are used to input the Positive and the Negative
Unit: mol/l cutoff concentration values. The Enter key sets these cutoff ratios
and returns to the previous screen.
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Unit
Unit 01: ug/dl
02: ng/ml Seventeen units are supported. The unit marked with [ ] is the
03:[ pg/ml] current selection. The Up and Down arrow keys move the cursor to
04: pm/ml
the desired unit type. The movement of the cursor also follows the
scroll of this screen. Press Enter twice to select the unit type and to
return to the previous screen.
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Recall setting
Recall setting Recall Setting
Yes No Move the cursor to the desired position using the Up, Down or
Right arrow keys. Enter key accepts the setting and returns the
user to the standard menu screen.
Yes: Recalling of the standard curve is active.
No: Recalling of the standard curve is inactive.
This setting screen consists of two parts. The Right arrow key is
Right arrow key used to switch the indication field between the date and time to the
standard curve name.
Select STD Curve
1: STD Curve #1
Move the cursor to the desired position using the Up and Down
2: STD Curve #2 keys. The Enter key accepts the storage number and returns to the
3: STD Curve #3
standard menu screen.
Select STD Curve
4: STD Curve #4
5: STD Curve #5
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
b. Set Shaking
Reading speed
Fast reading: 6 sec/single wavelength reading, 10 sec/dual wavelength
reading
Step reading: 15 sec/single wavelength reading, 30 sec/dual wavelength
reading
Reading mode
Normal mode: Plate reading once
Evaluation mode: Four plate readings per one of measurement are performed and
the average data of their plate readings is generated as a plate
data.
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
a. Manual Mapping
Manual Mapping
In this screen, the user can set the plate format manually. Ten well types can be set.
N 1 2 3 4
A B CN1 S01 S01
B
C
B
B
CN1 S02 S02
CN2 S03 S03 Well types:
[F] 5 6 7 8
The supported well types are:
A X11 X12 X13 X14 Well type Indication on LCD
B X21 X22 X23 X24
C X31 X32 X33[X34] 1. Blank: B
2. Sample: X00X99
3. Standard: S01S99
4. In-kit Control: Positive Control CP0CP9
5. Weak Positive Control CW0CW9
6. Negative Control CN0CN9
7. Cutoff Control CO0CO9
8. Calibrator CL0CL9
9. QC Control: QC0QC9
10. Empty well: -
Key Functions:
The Up, Down, Right and Left arrow keys move the cursor to the desired well. The
Discard change? movement of the cursor follows the scroll of this screen. The Left arrow key will return
1:Yes 2:No
Press 1 or 2 key the screen to the preceding screen, or the "select Mapping mode Menu", only if the
cursor is on column #1. At this time, the selection screen appears (see the left figure).
The Decimal point key changes the input mode.
The Numerical keys have two functions; one to input the number and another to select a
well type.
The Enter key checks the consistency between the edited plate map and other parameters,
memorizes the plate map into the protocol and changes this screen back to the preceding
screen. If it finds any inconsistency, a warning message will appear on the screen.
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
b. Automatic Mapping
Automatic Mapping
The user can input the number of each well type in this screen. These defined numbers
Automatic mapping
BLK= 1 CP = 1 CAL= 0 are used to set a plate map automatically.
CN = 1 CO = 0 SMP=93
CW = 0 QC = 0 REP= 1
Well type:
Nine well types are available.
1. BLK : Blank (0->10)
Plate auto-mapping 2. CN : Control CN (0->9)
completed
3. CW : Control CW (0->9)
4. CP : Control CP (0->9)
5. CO : Control CO (0->9)
6. QC : Control QC (0->9)
7. CAL : Calibrator (0->9)
8. SMP : Sample (0->96)
9. REP : Replicate well (1->4)
It is possible to define the number of blanks, samples, calibrators and controls. But the
number of Standards is not included, because standards are defined at the Standard
Setting Menu.
The number of replicate wells is also included. It is used for replicating each well type
individually.
Key Functions:
The Up, Down, Right and Left arrow keys are used to move the cursor to the next
position. The Numerical keys are used to input the mapping parameters. The Enter key
accepts the mapping parameters and sets a plate map automatically using these
parameters.
During the execution of the plate mapping, the "Plate auto-mapping completed" message
appears on the screen. After that, the user returns automatically to the previous Protocol
Menu screen.
Discard change?
1:Yes 2:No
Press 1 or 2 key If the Left arrow key is pressed at the left end position of the cursor, the left figure will
appear on the screen. If the user chooses "Yes", the system will return to the previous
Protocol Menu screen. If the user chooses "No", the system will stay in this setting
screen.
(Blanks+Standards+CNs+CWs+CPs+COs+QCs+Calibrators+Sample)*Replicates
The plate mapping is executed normally and the exceeded part is invalidated.
Error screen:
If one or more mapping parameters are over the input range, an error message in the left
Entered value is
Out of range figure will appear on the screen.
BLK: 0 10 On the third line of the LCD, the name of the parameter which is out of range and its
Press any key
input range will appear.
Example: BLK: 0 10
In case there is more than one error, the first parameter of errors is indicated. By pressing
any key the user returns to the automatic mapping screen.
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Instrument Maintenance
Caution: Electrical shock hazard! Always disconnect the instrument from the AC power source
before opening the service compartment.
Caution: The lamp and the lamp cover may be very hot! Use caution and allow the lamp to cool
before attempting service.
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Error Recommendation
b. Unit is not plugged into AC outlet or power Check power cord connections at outlet and on the rear
code is not attached to the instrument. panel of the instrument.
2. Instrument displays Light bulb error message Check whether lamp is emitting light.
indicating that the bulb is burned out.
b. Lamp is emitting light. Check the alignment of the lamp in the housing.
Align or replace the lamp if necessary.
a. Printer paper is not installed properly. Verify that the paper is properly installed.
Refer to x for details.
a. Plate is not seated in carriage properly. Press the STOP button immediately. Position the plate
carefully in the carriage, making certain that it is properly
seated.
b. Plate height is exceeding 16mm. Use Microplate which is less than 16mm in height.
6. LCD displays Filter disk jammed, indicating that Turn off the instrument, and inspect the filter wheel. Turn by
the filter wheel is not turning freely. hand to verify that the wheel is moving freely. Make sure all
the filters are properly installed and firmly seated. Contact
your Bio-Rad representative if the filter wheel is jammed or
if the problem persists.
7. LCD displays Filter not installed. Enter the Edit Menu by pressing Edit key, and set up the
filters.
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
a. Incorrect filter used for measurement and/or Check wavelength used in analysis. Read plate in single
reference wavelength. wavelength mode at all wavelength to verify that the proper
filter was used. The measurement wavelength should
produce the highest absorbance.
b. The best measurement wavelength filter for the Check references for the substrate you are using, or
substrate in use has not been installed in the determine the best measurement wavelength by analyzing
filter wheel. the substrate product on a scanning spectrophotometer.
Custom filters are available from 400 to 750 nm.
c. The filters have been switched in the wheel. Check that the filters are installed in the correct position.
9. Printer error displayed. Check for paper jam. Install the printer paper correctly.
10. Battery error displayed. The internal battery is almost dead. Contact your local
Bio-Rad office.
11. The following messages are displayed. Contact your local Bio-Rad office if these problems persist.
Memory error ,
Calendar error ,
LCD hardware error ,
Printer error,
Light level error ,
D/A conversion error ,
A/D conversion error
EEPROM error,
USB error
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iMark Microplate Absorbance Reader Instruction Manual
Instrument Specifications
Computer interface USB 2.0
Plate shaking 3 speeds (low, mid, high) Programmable time period: 0 - 999 seconds
Data storage The most recent 10 data plates for end-point, most recent 2 data plates of 30
readings for kinetic readings, protocol data and calendar/clock function shall be kept
in memory by a lithium battery even when the power is off.
Average lifetime of the battery shall be 5 years.
39
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Laboratories, Inc.
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