Izon qNano, User Manual, Page: 52 / 56

Partial nanopore blockage
Particle or bubble build up on either side of the aperture can cause partial
blocking of the nanopore (indicated by a sudden > 5% drop in baseline current
or particle rate).
To prevent these blockages, replace the electrolyte in the lower fluid cell every
half hour.
If the current becomes unstable and the noise is high, replace the fluid in
the lower fluid cell 5 times with filtered deionised water as shown in the
troubleshooting protocol.
FURTHER ADVICE ON THE MOST COMMON ISSUES
WITH THE QNANO
Measurement planning
Before analysing samples on the qNano, run some quick preliminary tests
using other nanoparticle analysis techniques to determine the approximate
size and concentration of your particles.
Ensure you have purchased the correct nanopore and calibration particle
sizes for your sample. Most optical techniques significantly overestimate
particle size. If in doubt, purchase the nanopore size that is slightly smaller
than your average particle diameter, and use the larger of two calibration
standards if you can resolve two in the same pore.
Sample preparation
When working with small nanopores, and suspensions of particles < 150 nm,
extra care must be taken to balance the forces keeping particles in solution.
Consult the sample preparation guide for a brief overview, and contact
support@izon.com for free advice.
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