4. Operating Instructions
Fill Verification
The Fill Verification option is a method of checking the filling of the wells in a
microplate. Possible errors with the dispensing system as well as the aspiration
system can be recognised.
The Fill Verification only works with the OVERFLOW wash procedure.
The wash buffer forms an electrical connection between the dispensing needles
and the aspirating needles. As soon as the wash liquid touches the aspirating
needles the electric circuit is closed.
Manifold
Dispensing needle
Aspirating needle
Well filled with washbuffer
The following errors can be detected using this method.
•
Fill Dispens Error
•
Fill Aspiration Error
•
Fill Function Error
Fill Dispens Error
The error messages
Inadequate
wash
,
Check
disp
path
are displayed.
These error messages appear if some of the needles are dispensing no or too
little solution. Possible errors could be a result of blocked dispensing needles,
bubbles in the dispensing channels, empty liquid bottles or the dispensing pump
no longer functions.
If no connection between the dispensing needles and the relevant aspirating
needles is made at least 30 µl before the end of the dispensing step, the wash
program will be interrupted.
Fill Aspiration Error
The error message
Fill
Asp
.
Err
. is displayed.
In order to prevent the wells from overflowing, the instrument checks when the
individual aspirating needles come into contact with the wash solution.
If this happens before
200
µl
has been dispensed into the wells the program is
stopped immediately. This can occur when the well was not or not completely
aspirated, due to a blocked aspirating needle / tube or the general aspiration
being too weak.
May 2003
Instructions for Use for Columbus Washer No. I 109 006 Rev No. 2.2
4-7
