Manual Biotek ELx800 Lector ELISA

ELx800
Absorbance Microplate Reader

Operators Manual

BIO-TEK INSTRUMENTS, INC., P.O. BOX 998, HIGHLAND PARK, WINOOSKI, VERMONT 05404 USA
COPYRIGHT 2005 TEL: (888) 451-5171 FAX: (802) 655-7941 Outside the USA: (802) 655-4740 E-mail: [email protected]
www.biotek.com
Creating Solutions for the Future of Science

This Manual Update contains changes to the ELx800 Operators Manual.
These changes will be incorporated in the next full revision (Rev O) of the Manual.

Page 43, System Startup
Addition:

Important! Some ELx800 readers have custom programmed
software installed. Not all features of the software discussed
in this Operators Manual are available on custom instruments.

Please contact Bio-Teks Technical Assistance Center at 800-242-4685
if you have any questions about the software on your reader.

Page 119, Liquid Test 1
Recommendation:
After pipetting the diluted test solution into the microplate (step 3) 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. If a plate shaker is not available, wait 20 minutes
after pipetting the diluted test solution before reading the plate.

7331000 Rev N2
July 2005
.

ELx800
Absorbance Microplate Reader
Operators Manual

October 2004
2004
Part Number 7331000
Revision N
Bio-Tek Instruments, Inc.

ii | Preface
Notices
Bio-Tek
Instruments, Inc.
Highland Park, P.O. Box 998
Winooski, Vermont 05404-0998 USA
All Rights Reserved
2004, Bio-Tek Instruments, Incorporated. No part of this publication may be
reproduced, transcribed, or transmitted in any form, or by any means electronic
or mechanical, including photocopying and recording, for any purpose other
than the purchasers use without written permission of Bio-Tek Instruments,
Inc.

Trademarks
Bio-Tek is a registered trademark, and ELx800, KC4, KCjunior, and EL800
are trademarks of Bio-Tek Instruments, Inc. Microsoft, Windows, and the
Windows logo are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the
United States and other countries. All other trademarks are the property of
their respective holders.

Restrictions and Liabilities
Information in this document is subject to change and does not represent a
commitment by Bio-Tek Instruments, Inc. Changes made to the information in
this document will be incorporated in new editions of the publication. No
responsibility is assumed by Bio-Tek for the use or reliability of software or
equipment that is not supplied by Bio-Tek or its affiliated dealers.
Contents | iii
Contents
Notices ............................................................................................. ii
All Rights Reserved ................................................................................. ii
Trademarks ........................................................................................... ii
Restrictions and Liabilities........................................................................ ii
Contact Information ................................................................................. xi
Customer Service and Sales .................................................................... xi
Service/TAC.......................................................................................... xi
European Coordination Center ................................................................. xi
Document Conventions .............................................................................xii
Revision History...................................................................................... xiii
Intended Use Statement .......................................................................... xv
Quality Control ....................................................................................... xv
Repackaging and Shipping........................................................................ xv
Warnings ...............................................................................................xvi
General ...............................................................................................xvi
Readers...............................................................................................xvi
Hazards and Precautions ......................................................................... xvii
Hazards.............................................................................................. xvii
Precautions........................................................................................ xviii
Directive 89/336/EEC:Electromagnetic Compatibility..................................xix
Directive 73/23/EEC Low Voltage ............................................................xix
Directive 2002/96/EC: Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment ................xix
Directive 98/79/EC: In Vitro Diagnostics ..................................................xix
Electromagnetic Interference and Susceptibility........................................... xx
User Safety ............................................................................................ xx
Safety Symbols.......................................................................................xxi
Warranty ............................................................................................. xxiii
Registration Card .................................................................................. xxiv

ELx800 Operator's Manual
iv | Preface
Chapter 1: Introduction.................................................................... 1
Introducing the ELx800 Automated Microplate Reader .................................... 2
Hardware Features .................................................................................... 3
Software Features..................................................................................... 3
Package Contents ..................................................................................... 4
Optional Accessories.................................................................................. 5
Specifications ........................................................................................... 6
Standard Model ...................................................................................... 6
Ultraviolet/UV Model ............................................................................... 7
Narrow Beam/NB Model ........................................................................... 8
Technical Support ................................................................................... 10
Phone Support ..................................................................................... 10
Electronic Communication...................................................................... 11
Facsimile Support ................................................................................. 11
Written Communication ......................................................................... 11
Shipping Address.................................................................................. 11
Chapter 2: Installation ................................................................... 13
Unpacking and Inspecting the ELx800 ..................................................... 14
Unpacking the Instrument and Its Accessories .......................................... 15
Setting Up the ELx800 ............................................................................. 19
Operating Environment.......................................................................... 19
Electrical Connections............................................................................ 19
Power-Up and System Test .................................................................... 20
ELx800 Main Menu................................................................................ 20
Configuring Global Default Options.......................................................... 21
Connecting a Printer to the ELx800 ......................................................... 22
Setting Up the Serial Port for Communications With Other Devices................. 24
Attaching the Cable............................................................................... 24
Setting Communication Parameters......................................................... 24
Installing Additional Filters ....................................................................... 26

Contents | v
Repackaging and Shipping the ELx800 ....................................................... 30
Before Repackaging the Instrument......................................................... 30
Repackaging the ELx800 and Its Accessories ............................................ 31
Preparing the Shipping Container ............................................................ 37
Chapter 3: Operation...................................................................... 39
ELx800 Front Panel ................................................................................. 40
Overview ............................................................................................... 42
Recommendations for Achieving Optimum Performance................................ 42
System Startup ...................................................................................... 43
Main Menu ............................................................................................. 44
Define ................................................................................................... 46
Programming Note................................................................................ 47
Selecting an Assay to Define .................................................................. 48
Editing the Assay Name......................................................................... 48
Define (Method, Map, Formula and Curve).................................................. 49
Defining METHOD ................................................................................. 49
Defining MAP ....................................................................................... 53
Defining FORMULA................................................................................ 69
Defining CURVE.................................................................................... 81
Reading a Microplate ............................................................................... 88
Selecting an Assay to Run...................................................................... 89
Printing Reports ...................................................................................... 93
Editing Standard Outliers ....................................................................... 94
Printing Results .................................................................................... 96
Using the Utility Options........................................................................... 97
Setting the Date and Time ..................................................................... 97
Viewing/Editing the Filter Table............................................................... 98
Specifying Data Output and Reporting Options.......................................... 99
Selecting Read Options........................................................................ 101

vi | Preface
Chapter 4: Performance Verification and IQ/OQ/PQ Procedures.. 103
Recommendations for Achieving Optimum Performance.............................. 104
Recommended Test Schedule ................................................................. 105
Qualification Procedures......................................................................... 106
System Test....................................................................................... 107
Checksum Test................................................................................... 109
Absorbance Plate Test ......................................................................... 110
Entering the Absorbance Plate Specifications .......................................... 113
Test Failures ...................................................................................... 115
Liquid Testing....................................................................................... 116
Stock Solution Formulation .................................................................. 117
Liquid Test 1...................................................................................... 119
Liquid Test 2...................................................................................... 121
Liquid Test 3 (for UV Models Only)...................................................... 125
Chapter 5: Maintenance and Decontamination ............................. 129
Maintenance......................................................................................... 130
Routine Cleaning Procedure .................................................................... 130
Purpose............................................................................................. 130
Tools and Supplies.............................................................................. 131
Procedure.......................................................................................... 131
Replacing the Bulb ................................................................................ 132
Decontamination Procedure .................................................................... 135
Tools and Supplies.............................................................................. 136
Procedure.......................................................................................... 136
Contents | vii
Chapter 6: Troubleshooting and Error Codes ................................ 139
Overview ............................................................................................. 140
System Test Description......................................................................... 140
Glossary of Terms............................................................................... 140
Error Codes.......................................................................................... 141
General Errors.................................................................................... 142
Fatal Errors........................................................................................ 148
Appendix A: Controlling the Reader With KCjunior or KC4 ...... 149
Overview ............................................................................................. 150
Controlling the Reader With KCjunior .................................................... 151
Problems ........................................................................................... 152
Getting Started With KCjunior............................................................ 152
Controlling the Reader With KC4........................................................... 153
Problems ........................................................................................... 154
Getting Started With KC4.................................................................. 154
Appendix B: Using 384-Well Geometry ......................................... 155
KCjunior............................................................................................ 156
KC4.................................................................................................. 159
Appendix C: Report Format........................................................... 163
Appendix D: Comparison of the ELx800 and the EL800................. 171
viii | Preface
Appendix E: Instructions for Programming a New Assay.............. 173
Sample ANA Screen Enzyme Immunoassay Kit.......................................... 174
Intended Use ..................................................................................... 174
Background ....................................................................................... 174
Principle of the Assay .......................................................................... 174
Materials ........................................................................................... 175
Quality Control and Results .................................................................. 176
Expected Values ................................................................................. 176
Programming the ANA Screen Enzyme Immunoassay Kit ............................ 177
Sample Human Anticardiolipin IgG Enzyme Immunoassay Kit...................... 179
Intended Use ..................................................................................... 179
Background ....................................................................................... 179
Principle of the Assay .......................................................................... 179
Materials ........................................................................................... 180
Quality Control and Results .................................................................. 181
Expected Values ................................................................................. 183
Programming the Human Anticardiolipin IgG Enzyme Immunoassay Kit ........ 184

List of Figures | ix
List of Figures
Figure 1: Removing the Power Supply and Shelf..................................... 15
Figure 2: Removing the Foam End Caps................................................ 16
Figure 3: Removing the Top Cover Mounting Screws............................... 17
Figure 4: Removing the Shipping Block................................................. 18
Figure 5: Global Configuration Options Available Under UTIL.................... 21
Figure 6: Connectors for Printer (Parallel), Computer (Serial), and Power
Supply ........................................................................................ 23
Figure 7: Filter Wheel Assembly........................................................... 26
Figure 8: Securing the Carrier ............................................................. 31
Figure 9: Hooking the Shipping Straps Around the Shaft ......................... 32
Figure 10: Installing the Shipping Block ................................................ 33
Figure 11: Reinstalling the Top Cover ................................................... 34
Figure 12: Reattaching the End Caps.................................................... 35
Figure 13: Placing the Unit in the Box................................................... 36
Figure 14: Keyboard .......................................................................... 40
Figure 15: Options Available from the Main Menu ................................... 44
Figure 16: Sample Output for the System Test (Sheet 1 of 2) ................ 108
Figure 17: Sample Output for the System Test Autocal Analysis
(Sheet 2 of 2) ............................................................................ 109
Figure 18: Sample Absorbance Test Plate Data Sheet ........................... 112
Figure 19: Sample Test Plate Analysis Report ...................................... 112
Figure 20: Lamp Assembly................................................................ 133
Figure 21: KCjunior Main Menu, Setup|Reader 1 Dialog......................... 156
Figure 22: Reader Setup 1 Dialog ...................................................... 156
Figure 23: Read Plate Dialog ............................................................. 157
Figure 24: Protocol Definition (General Information) Dialog ................... 157
Figure 25: Protocol Definition (Read Method) Dialog ............................. 158
Figure 26: KC4 Main Menu, System|Readers........................................ 159
Figure 27: Reader Selection Dialog..................................................... 159
Figure 28: Data|New Plate Dialog....................................................... 160
Figure 29: New Data File Dialog......................................................... 160
Figure 30: Reading Parameters Dialog ................................................ 161
x | Preface
List of Figures (Continued)
Figure 31: Samples With Calls on Matrix Report ...................................... 164
Figure 32: Curve Fit Report .................................................................. 165
Figure 33: Samples With Calls on Column Report .................................... 166
Figure 34: Column Report Without Samples............................................ 167
Figure 35: Panel Report ....................................................................... 168
Figure 36: Assay Detail Report (Sheet 1 of 2) ......................................... 169
Figure 37: Assay Detail Report (Sheet 2 of 2) ......................................... 170

List of Tables
Table 1: Recommended Test Schedule................................................... 105
Table 2: Typical Enzyme-Substrate Combinations and Stopping Solutions... 116
Table 3: Test Tube Dilutions................................................................. 121
Table 4: PBS 10X Concentrate Solution.................................................. 126

Contact Information | xi
Contact Information
Bio-Tek
Instruments, Inc.
Highland Park, P.O. Box 998
Customer Service and Sales
Internet: www.biotek.com
Phone: 888-451-5171 (toll free in the U.S.)
802-655-4040 (outside the U.S.)
Fax: 802-655-7941
E-Mail: [email protected]
Service/TAC
Phone: 800-242-4685 (toll free in the U.S.)
802-655-4740 (outside the U.S.)
Fax: 802-655-3399
European Coordination Center
Bio-Tek
Instruments GmbH
Kocherwaldstrasse 34
D-74177 Bad Friedrichshall
Germany
Internet: www.biotek.de
Phone: +49 (0) 7136 9680
Fax: +49 (0) 7136 968 111

xii | Preface
Document Conventions
This manual uses the following typographic conventions:
Example Description

This icon calls attention to important safety notes.
Warning! A Warning indicates the potential for bodily harm and tells you
how to avoid the problem.
Caution A Caution indicates potential damage to the instrument and tells
you how to avoid the problem.
DEFINE
Text in COURIER font represents menu options as they appear on
the instruments display.
Note: Bold text is primarily used for emphasis.

This icon calls attention to important information.

Revision History | xiii
Revision History
Revision Date Changes
A 3/95 First Release
B 7/95 Generic
C 9/95 Add Errata sheet
D 10/95 Incorporate Errata: cal plate PN cover text to UV
E 11/96 Added Panel Assay info. Added TVar parameter. Added
Appendix D to include all reports.
F 2/97 Added Notes including info on 384-well format. Updated Reuse
of Standard Curves and Panel sections. Added Appendix E
KcJr for 384-well format.
G 03/98 Added Liquid Test 1 and 2 to Chapter 4 Performance
Verification. Added Appendix F Comparison, to show the
differences between the ELx800 and the EL800.
Added printer information.
Changed plate type information to include
384-well and 72-/96-well Terasaki plate formats. Added
reference to Quick Read on display.
H 09/98 Modified Appendix B - Computer Control. Updated Elx800 and
EL800 model comparison table in Appendix F.
I 2/99 Incorporated Manual Updates.
Changed European addresses.
J 9/99 Changed printer-compatible description. Changed the number
of samples necessary if there aren't controls, standards or blanks
defined. Corrected the number of stored plates to 8. Corrected
the positions for re-use of standard curves. Removed the "M"
command from Appendix B- Computer Control.
K 1/00 Added Liquid Test 3 to test 340 nm filters. Updated screens in
Chapter 3. Updated chart in Appendix F.
L 5/03 Preface:
- Updated contact information in Notices
(page iii).
- Added Document Conventions (page v).
- Corrected errors in Safety Symbol text
(page ix).
Removed "screwdriver" from Package Contents, and added "Bio-
Tek QC Check Solutions for 405 nm" to Optional Accessories list
(page 1-7).
Removed About This Manual section (page 1-5).
Updated contact information in Technical Support (Chapter 1).
Modified appearance of display screens throughout.
Revised lamp alignment section in Chapter 2.

xiv | Preface
Revision History (Continued)

L 5/03
(Cont.)
Chapter 4:
- Changed title to "Performance Verification and
IQ/PQ/OQ Tests."
- Added IQ/PQ/OQ test procedure information.
- Clarified procedures for liquid tests.
Replaced outdated Appendix E with instructions for using KCjunior
to read 384-well microplates.
Added new Appendix G with two examples of assay kit instructions
and directions for programming an assay.
Made editorial and formatting changes throughout.
M 9/03 Preface:
- Updated Warnings section (pages vii and viii).
- Updated Electromagnetic Compatibility section (page x).
- Added Consult instructions for use and In vitro diagnostic
medical device safety symbols (page xii).
- Expanded Intended Use Statement (page xiii).
Added Absorbance Test Plate to Optional Accessories list (Chapter 1,
page 1-8).
Changed callout in Figure 2-2 from Place unit in bag to Unit in
plastic bag (Chapter 2, page 2-2).
Added KC4 startup information to Appendix E.
Removed references to ELx800UV and EL800UV from Appendix F.
Standardized the presentation of significant digits throughout.
Changed Abs to OD throughout.
N 10/04 Restructured manual according to new template.
Removed references to General Formula throughout.
Updated Chapter 4, Performance Verification and IQ-OQ-PQ
Procedures.
Added new Chapter 5, Maintenance and Decontamination.
Added new Chapter 6, Troubleshooting and Error Codes.
Removed Computer Control portion of Appendix A; renamed
Appendix to Controlling the Reader With KCjunior or KC4.
Added new Appendix B, Using 384-Well Geometry.
Updated sample reports in Appendix C, Report Format (formerly
Appendix D).
Removed previous Appendix A, Decontamination.
Removed previous Appendix C, Error Codes.
Added new Appendix E, Instructions for Programming a New Assay.

Intended Use Statement | xv
Intended Use Statement
The intended use of this instrument is dependent on the instruments rear panel label. If
there is an IVD label, then the instrument may be used for clinical, research and
development, or other nonclinical purposes. If there is no such label, then the instrument
may only be used for research and development, or for other nonclinical purposes.
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.
Repackaging and Shipping

If you need to ship the instrument to Bio-Tek for service
or repair, contact Bio-Tek for a Return Materials
Authorization (RMA) number, and be sure to use the
original packing. Other forms of commercially available
packing are not recommended and can void the warranty.
If the original packing materials have been damaged or
lost, contact Bio-Tek for replacement packing.
xvi | Preface
Warnings
General
Operate the instrument on a flat surface away from excessive humidity.
Readers
Excessive Ambient Light: Bright sunlight or strong incandescent light
can reduce the linear performance range of the instrument.
Dust: Measurement values may be affected by extraneous particles (such as
dust) in the microplate wells. A clean work area is necessary to ensure
accurate readings.
When operated in a safe environment according to the instructions in this
document, there are no known hazards associated with the instrument.
However, the operator should be aware of certain situations that could
result in serious injury; these may vary depending on the instrument
model.

Hazards and Precautions | xvii
Hazards and Precautions
Hazards

Warning! Power Rating. The instruments 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 two-prong plug
adapter to connect primary power to the external power supply. Use
of a two-prong adapter disconnects the utility ground, creating a
severe shock hazard. Always connect the power cord directly to a
three-prong receptacle with a functional ground.

Warning! Internal Voltage. Always turn off the power switch
and unplug the power cord before cleaning the outer surface of the
instrument.

Warning! Potential Biohazards. Some assays or specimens may
pose a biohazard. Adequate safety precautions should be taken as
outlined in the assays package insert. Always wear safety glasses
and appropriate protective equipment, such as chemically resistant
rubber gloves and apron.

Warning! Liquids. Avoid spilling liquids on the instrument; fluid
seepage into internal components creates a potential for shock
hazard. Wipe up all spills immediately. Do not operate the
instrument if internal components have been exposed to fluid.

Warning! Software Quality Control. The operator must follow
the manufacturers assay package insert when modifying software
parameters and establishing reading or wash methods, using the
instruments onboard software. Failure to conduct quality
control checks could result in erroneous test data.

Warning! Reader Data Reduction Protocol. For readers with
onboard assay software, the software will flag properly defined
controls when they are out of range. The software will present the
data with the appropriate error flags for the operator to determine
control and assay validity. For readers operated via computer control,
no limits are applied to the raw absorbance data. All information
exported via computer control must be thoroughly analyzed by the
operator.
xviii | Preface
Precautions
The following precautions are provided to help avoid damage to the instrument:

Caution: Service. Only Bio-Tek authorized service personnel
should service the instrument. Only qualified technical personnel
should perform troubleshooting and service procedures on internal
components.

Caution: Environmental Conditions. Do not expose the system
to temperature extremes. For proper operation, ambient temperatures
should remain between 15-40C. Performance may be adversely
affected if temperatures fluctuate above or below this range. Storage
temperature limits are broader.

Caution: Sodium Hypochlorite. Do not expose any part of the
instrument to the recommended diluted sodium hypochlorite
solution (bleach) for more than 20 minutes. Prolonged contact may
damage the instrument surfaces. Be certain to rinse and thoroughly
wipe all surfaces.

Caution: Warranty. Failure to follow preventive maintenance
protocols may void the warranty.

Caution: Disposal. This instrument contains printed circuit boards
and wiring with lead solder. Dispose of the instrument according to
Directive 2002/96/EC, on waste electrical and electronic equipment
(WEEE).
Hazards and Precautions | xix
Based on the testing described below and information contained
herein, this instrument bears the CE mark.

Directive 89/336/EEC:Electromagnetic Compatibility
Emissions - CLASS A
IEC 61326-1:2002
EN 55022:2000 Class A, CISPR 16-1:1993, CISPR 16-2:1999
Immunity
IEC 61326-1:2000
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
EN 61000-4-11: Voltage Dips, Short Interruptions and Variations

Directive 73/23/EEC Low Voltage
EN 61010-1 (2001): Safety requirement for electrical equipment for measurement,
control and laboratory use. Part 1, General requirements.
Directive 2002/96/EC: Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment
Disposal Notice
This instrument contains printed circuit boards and wiring with lead solder. Dispose
of the instrument according to Directive 2002/96/EC, on waste electrical and
electronic equipment (WEEE).
Directive 98/79/EC: In Vitro Diagnostics
Product registration with competent authorities
Traceability to the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology
(NIST):
Optical density measurements, and if equipped, incubator
temperature readings, are traceable to NIST.
Specific data for a particular serial number is available on request from Bio-Tek
Instruments. See page xi for contact information.
xx | Preface
Electromagnetic Interference and Susceptibility
USA FCC CLASS A
Warning: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by
the manufacturer could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
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.
Like all similar equipment, 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 interference,
in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his/her
expense.
Canadian Department of Communications Class A
This digital apparatus does not exceed Class A limits for radio emissions from
digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian
Department of Communications.
Le present appareil numerique n'emet pas du bruits radioelectriques depassant
les limites applicables aux appareils numerique de la Class A prescrites dans le
Reglement sur le brouillage radioelectrique edicte par le ministere des
Communications du Canada.
User Safety
This device has been type tested by an independent laboratory and found to meet the
requirements of the following:
North America
Canadian Standards Association CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 1010.1-92
Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control,
and Laboratory Use, Part 1: General Requirements
UL 61010A-1, 1st Edition
International
EN 61010-1:2001
Safety Symbols | xxi
Safety Symbols
Some of the following symbols will appear on the instrument.

Alternating current
Courant alternatif
Wechselstrom
Corriente alterna
Corrente alternata

Direct current
Courant continu
Gleichstrom
Corriente continua
Corrente continua

Both direct and alternating current
Courant continu et courant alternatif
Gleich - und Wechselstrom
Corriente continua y corriente alterna
Corrente continua e corrente alternata

Earth ground terminal
Borne de terre
Erde (Betriebserde)
Borne de Tierra
Terra (di funzionamento)

Protective conductor terminal
Borne de terre de protection
Schutzleiteranschluss
Borne de tierra de proteccin
Terra di protezione

On (Supply)
Marche (alimentation)
Ein (Verbindung mit dem Netz)
Conectado
Chiuso

Off (Supply)
Arrt (alimentation)
Aus (Trennung vom Netz)
Desconectado
Aperto (sconnessione dalla rete di alimentazione)
xxii | Preface

Caution (refer to accompanying documents)
Attention (voir documents daccompanement)
Achtung siehe Begleitpapiere
Atencin (vease los documentos incluidos)
Attenzione, consultare la doc annessa

Warning, risk of electric shock
Attention, risque de choc lectrique
Gefhrliche elektrische Shlag
Precaucin, riesgo de sacudida elctrica
Attenzione, rischio di scossa elettrica

Warning, risk of crushing or pinching
Attention, risque dcrasement et pincement
Warnen, Gefahr des Zerquetschens und Klemmen
Precaucin, riesgo del machacamiento y sejecin
Attenzione, rischio di schiacciare ed intrappolarsi

Warning, hot surface
Attention, surface chaude
Warnen, heie Oberflche
Precaucin, superficie caliente
Attenzione, superficie calda

Consult instructions for use
Consulter la notice demploi
Gebrauchsanweisung beachten
Consultar las instrucciones de uso
Consultare le istruzioni per uso

In vitro diagnostic medical device
Dispositif mdical de diagnostic in vitro
Medizinisches In-Vitro-Diagnostikum
Dispositivo mdico de diagnstico in vitro
Dispositivo medico diagnostico in vitro

Separate collection for electrical and electronic
equipment
Les quipements lectriques et lectroniques font lobjet
dune collecte slective
Getrennte Sammlung von Elektro- und Elektronikgerten
Recogida selectiva de aparatos elctricos y electrnicos
Raccolta separata delle apparecchiature elettriche ed
elettroniche
Warranty | xxiii
Warranty
This Warranty is limited and applies only to new products, except for computer-based
software, which is covered under a separate Warranty Policy, manufactured by Bio-Tek
Instruments, Inc. (Bio-Tek). Bio-Tek makes no warranty whatsoever regarding the
condition of used products.
Bio-Tek warrants the instrument (hereinafter collectively referred to as Products or
Product) for a period of one (1) year from the original purchase date against defective
materials or workmanship. This Warranty is limited to the original purchaser (the
Purchaser) and cannot be assigned or transferred. All claims under this Limited
Warranty must be made in writing to Bio-Tek, Attention: Service Department. Purchaser
must ship the Product to Bio-Tek, postage pre-paid. Bio-Tek shall either repair or replace
with new or like new, at its option and without cost to the Purchaser, any Product which
in Bio-Teks sole judgment is defective by reason of defects in the materials or
workmanship.
This Warranty is VOID if the Product has been damaged by accident or misuse, or has
been damaged by abuse or negligence in the operation or maintenance of the Product,
including without limitation unsafe operation, operation by untrained personnel, and
failure to perform routine maintenance. This Warranty is VOID if the Product has been
repaired or altered by persons not authorized by Bio-Tek, or if the Product has had the
serial number altered, effaced, or removed. This Warranty is VOID if the Product has
not been connected, installed, or adjusted strictly in accordance with written directions
furnished by Bio-Tek. Batteries, fuses, light bulbs, and other consumable items used in
any of the Products are not covered by this Warranty. Software utilized in conjunction
with any of the Products is not covered by the terms of this Warranty but may be
covered under a separate Bio-Tek software warranty.
We will continue to stock parts for a minimum period of five (5) years after the
manufacture of any equipment has been discontinued. Parts shall include all materials,
charts, instructions, diagrams, and accessories that were furnished with the standard
models.
THIS WARRANTY CONTAINS THE ENTIRE OBLIGATION OF BIO-TEK
INSTRUMENTS, INC., AND NO OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED, IMPLIED, OR
STATUTORY ARE GIVEN. PURCHASER AGREES TO ASSUME ALL LIABILITY FOR
ANY DAMAGES AND/OR BODILY INJURY OR DEATH THAT MAY RESULT FROM
THE USE OR MISUSE OF ANY EQUIPMENT OR INSTRUMENT BY THE
PURCHASER, HIS EMPLOYEES, AGENTS, OR CUSTOMERS, OTHER THAN THE
EXPRESS WARRANTY CONTAINED HEREIN. WE SHALL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE
FOR ANY DIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND. THIS
WARRANTY SHALL NOT BE CHANGED OR MODIFIED IN ANY WAY WITHOUT
THE EXPRESS WRITTEN PERMISSION OF AN OFFICER OF BIO-TEK
INSTRUMENTS, INC.
xxiv | Preface
Registration Card
Once the instrument has been set up and is running successfully, please take a moment
to fill out and mail the postage-paid Warranty Registration card. By sending in the
registration card, you will be assured of receiving prompt information on product
enhancements.
Chapter 1
Introduction
This chapter introduces the ELx800 Automated Microplate
Reader and describes its hardware and software features.
Also included is contact information if technical assistance is
needed.

Introducing the ELx800 Automated Microplate Reader.................. 2
Hardware Features.................................................................. 3
Software Features................................................................... 3
Package Contents ................................................................... 4
Optional Accessories................................................................ 5
Specifications ......................................................................... 6
Standard Model.................................................................. 6
Ultraviolet/UV Model ........................................................... 7
Narrow Beam/NB Model ...................................................... 8
Technical Support ................................................................... 10

2 | Chapter 1: Introduction

Introducing the ELx800 Automated Microplate
Reader
The ELx800 Automated Microplate Reader is a single-channel reader-assay
system, designed to automatically perform endpoint analysis for a variety of
ELISA-based applications. The reader can measure the optical density of
solutions in 6-, 12-, 24-, 48-, or 96-well microplates. The NB reader models can
measure 384-well microplates and 60-, 72-, 96-well Terasaki trays as well as 6-,
12, 24-, 48-, or 96-well plates. The reader features superior optical specifications,
with an extended dynamic range of up to 3.000 absorbance units in some read
modes. The wavelength range is from 400 nm to 750 nm. UV instruments
have an extended range from 340 nm to 750 nm. Kinetic analysis can be
performed using computer control (e.g., via KC4 or KCjunior running on a
host PC).
Assay definitions (consisting of protocols, templates and formulas) and the data
they produce are managed by an onboard processor, via a 2-line x 24-character
LCD screen and membrane switch. Data can be stored onboard, printed,
and/or uploaded to controlling software on a host PC. The ELx800 is designed
to serve as a stand-alone system, or as part of a larger laboratory data network,
sending, receiving, and manipulating assay data as needed.
The ELx800 is backed by a superior support staff. If the ELx800 ever fails to
work perfectly, please call the Technical Assistance Center, or visit Bio-Teks
Web site. Refer to the end of this chapter for contact information.
Hardware Features | 3
Hardware Features

The ELx800s hardware features include:
Single optics channel
Wavelength range of 400-750 nm
ELx800UV model provides extended wavelength range of
340 to 750 nm
A 5-position filter wheel
A 2-line x 24-character LCD display
A membrane keypad with alphanumeric keys
X-Y carrier movement
Capability of reading 6-, 12-, 24-, 48- and 96-well microplates.
ELx800NB model extends read capability to include 384-well and
60-/72-/96-well Terasaki microplates.
External 24-volt power supply, which runs on 100 to 240 V~ 10.0% @
50 to 60 Hz
One serial COM port, 25-pin male connector
One parallel port, 25-pin female connector

Software Features
An easy-to-use, menu-driven interface
Endpoint calculations
Curve Fitting, with 4-parameter, cubic, quadratic, linear, 2-P, cubic-
spline, and point-to-point methods
Transformation and Formula calculations for more complex
mathematical operations, including validations
Up to 75 assays can be programmed into memory and recalled instantly
Up to 10 results can be stored in memory

Package Contents
The contents of the ELx800 package include:
Microplate Reader
Power Cord (part number varies according to country of use)
Power Supply
Filter wheel with 4 standard filters: 405 nm, 450 nm, 490 nm, 630 nm
and one blank filter. The UV model includes a 340 nm filter.
Operators Manual (PN 7331000) and Registration Card
Printer Cable (PN 71072)
Dust Cover (PN 7332040)
RS-232 Serial Cable (PN 75053)
Unpacking instructions (PN 7271003); packing instructions
(PN 7271012)
Shipping document kit (PN 94075), including Warranty Registration
Card, Certificate of Compliance and Calibration, and FDA Certification
Form
Set of shipping materials (PN 7273000)
Declaration of Conformity (PN 7271004)
Sample UV transparent plates and literature

Optional Accessories | 5
Optional Accessories
Patented Bio-Cell Quartz vessel: to obtain 1 cm fixed pathlength
absorbance measurements (PN 7272051)
Bio-Cell adapter plate assembly: can contain up to 8 Bio-Cells
(PN 7270512)
Lamp for ELx800NB, ELx800RNB, ELx800UV, ELx800RUV
(PN 7330516)
Lamp for ELx800 and ELx800R (PN 7330513)
ELx800 filters (PN 7334---, plus wavelength)
340 (UV model only), 405, 415, 450, 490, 515, 540, 550, 562, 570,
590, 595, 600, 620, 630, 650, 660, 690, 750
Terasaki plate adapter for 60-, 72-, and 96-well Terasaki plates for
ELx800NB and ELx800RNB (PN 7330531)
Absorbance Test Plate (PN 7260522)
Epson LX-300 printer or equivalent (110V only) (PN 97145)
Sheet feeder for Epson LX-300+ (PN 97144)
HP DeskJet printer (PN 97152)
KC4 Software:
KC4 Reader Control and Data Analysis Software (PN 5290512)
KC4 Signature (21 CFR Part 11 Compliant Version) (PN 5290510)
KC4 Signature Upgrade (from v2.7 or lower) (PN 5290511)
KC4 Signature Upgrade (from v3.0) (PN 5290508)
KC4 Upgrade (from v2.7 or lower) (PN 5290514)
KCjunior Software:
KCjunior Software Package (PN 5270501)
KCjunior Upgrade (PN 5270508)
Delta-Soft Macintosh Software (PN 3070145)
ELx800 Qualification Package (PN 7330538)


Specifications
Standard Model
Wavelength Range: 400 to 750 nm
Filters: 10 nm half-bandwidth interference filters.
User-accessible filter wheel. Up to 5 filters may be
installed on the instrument at one time.
Filters supplied: 405 nm, 450 nm, 490 nm and 630 nm.
The following specifications apply to 96-well, flat- or round-bottom
plates, single-wavelength measurements with a 50-second read
(normal read mode).
Absorbance Measurement
Range:
0.000 to 3.000 OD
Accuracy: 1.0% 0.010 OD from 0.000 to 2.000 OD
@ 405 nm
Linearity: 1.0% from 0.000 to 2.000 OD at 405 nm
3.0% from 2.000 OD to 3.000 OD @ 450 nm
Repeatability (STD): 0.5% 0.005 OD from 0.000 to 2.000 OD @ 405 nm
The following specifications apply to 96-well, flat- or round-bottom
plates, single-wavelength measurements with a 30-second read
(rapid read mode).
Range:

0.000 to 3.000 OD
Accuracy: 2.0% 0.020 OD from 0.000 to 2.000 OD @ 405 nm
Linearity: 2.0% from 0.000 to 2.000 OD @ 405 nm
Light Source: Tungsten gas-filled bulb
Dimensions: 42 cm x 38 cm x 18 cm (16.5" deep x 15" wide x 7" tall)
Weight: 8 kg (18.5 lb. Maximum)
Environment: Operating temperature 18 to 40C
Humidity: 10% to 85% noncondensing
Power Supply: Input 100 to 240 V~ 10.0% @ 50 to 60 Hz
Output +24 VDC, 2.1 A
Specifications | 7
Ultraviolet/UV Model
The following specifications apply to 96-well, flat- or round-bottom plates.
Wavelength Range: 340 to 750 nm
User-accessible filter wheel. Up to 5 filters may
be installed on the instrument at one time.
Filters supplied: 340 nm, 405 nm, 450 nm,
490 nm and 630 nm.
Optical specifications for the 400 to 750 nm range (50-second read in
normal read mode):
Range:

0.000 to 3.000 OD
Accuracy: 1.0% 0.010 OD from 0.000 to 2.000 OD @ 405 nm
3.0% from 2.000 to 3.000 OD @ 450 nm
normal read mode):
Range:

0.000 to 3.000 OD
@ 340 nm
Repeatability (STD): 1.5% 0.005 OD from 0.000 to 2.000 OD
@ 340 nm
rapid read mode):
Range:

0.000 to 3.000 OD
@ 405 nm
@ 405 nm

Optical specifications for the 340 to 400 nm range (30-second read):
Range:

0.000 to 3/-*.000 OD
@ 340 nm
@ 340 nm
Narrow Beam/NB Model
User-accessible filter wheel. Up to 5 filters may
be installed on the instrument at one time.
Filters supplied: 405 nm, 450 nm, 490 nm and
630 nm.
The following specifications apply to 96-well, flat- or round-bottom plates
with a 50-second read (normal read mode).
Range:

0.000 to 3.000 OD
@ 405 nm
3.0% from 2.000 to 3.000 OD @ 450 nm
Repeatability (STD): 0.5% 0.005 OD from 0 to 2.000 OD @ 405 nm
Specifications | 9
The following specifications apply to 96-well, flat- or round-bottom plates
with a 30-second read (rapid read mode).
Range:

0.000 to 3.000 OD
@ 405 nm
@ 405 nm
The following specifications apply to a 384-well plate. The minimum
volume of fluid in a well to obtain the specified performance is 80
microliters. The specifications apply to the dual wavelength mode of read
only.

Range:

0.000 to 3.000 OD
Normal Read Mode: Dual wavelength (4 minutes, 45 seconds)
@ 405 nm
@ 405 nm
Rapid Read Mode: Dual wavelength (3 minutes, 25 seconds)
@ 405 nm
@ 405 nm

Technical Support
Bio-Teks ELx800 Absorbance Microplate Reader is backed by a superior
support staff. If the reader ever fails to work perfectly, please contact Bio-Teks
Technical Assistance Center (TAC).
Whichever method of contact you choose, please be prepared to provide the
following information:
Product name and serial number.
The software configuration information. To locate this information,
press UTIL TESTS CHKSUM from the reader's Main Menu.
The specific steps that reproduce your problem.
Any error codes displayed on the screen (descriptions of error codes are
available in Chapter 7).
A daytime phone number.
Your name and company information.
A fax number and/or e-mail address, if available.

If you need to return the reader to Bio-Tek for service, contact Bio-Tek for a
Return Materials Authorization number (RMA), repackage the reader properly
(see Chapter 3, Installation), and ship the instrument to Bio-Tek at the
shipping address listed on the following page.
Phone Support
You can telephone the Technical Assistance Center between 8:30 AM and
5:30 PM Eastern Standard Time (EST), Monday through Friday, excluding
holidays.
Bio-Tek Instruments Main Number: (802) 655-4040
Technical Assistance Center: (800) 242-4685
Technical Support | 11
Electronic Communication
Electronic communication is available via the following:
Internet Site: www.biotek.com
Facsimile Support
You may send a fax with your questions or requests for help 24 hours a day
to the following number:
Technical Assistance Center: (802) 655-3399
Written Communication
If you prefer, you may write a letter with your comments and send it to:
Technical Assistance Center
P.O. Box 998, Highland Park
Shipping Address
Ship instruments that need repair or service to Bio-Tek at the following
address:
Technical Assistance Center
100 Tigan Street
Highland Park
Winooski, Vermont 05404 USA


Chapter 2
Installation

This chapter includes instructions for unpacking and setting
up the ELx800 and instructions for connecting printers and/or
serial devices.
Unpacking and Inspecting the ELx800..................................... 14
Unpacking the Instrument and Its Accessories........................ 15
Setting Up the ELx800............................................................. 19
Operating Environment ....................................................... 19
Electrical Connections ......................................................... 19
Power-Up and System Test .................................................. 20
ELx800 Main Menu ............................................................. 20
Configuring Global Default Options........................................ 21
Connecting a Printer to the ELx800 ....................................... 22
Setting Up the Serial Port for Communications With Other Devices. 24
Attaching the Cable ............................................................ 24
Setting Communication Parameters ...................................... 24
Installing Additional Filters ....................................................... 26
Repackaging and Shipping the ELx800....................................... 30

14 | Chapter 2: Installation

Unpacking and Inspecting the ELx800

Important! Save all packaging materials. If the
ELx800 is shipped to the factory for repair or
replacement, it must be carefully repackaged,
according to the instructions on pages 30 through 31,
using the original packing materials (PN 7332062).
The individual packaging materials contained in PN
7332062 are listed in the table below. Using other
forms of commercially available packing materials, or
failure to follow the repackaging instructions may
void your warranty. If the original packing
materials have been damaged, replacements are
available from Bio-Tek.
The ELx800 and its accessories are securely packaged inside custom-designed
shipping materials. This packaging should protect the instrument from damage
during shipping. Inspect the shipping box, packaging, instrument, and accessories
for signs of damage.
If the reader is damaged, notify the carrier and your manufacturer's representative.
Keep the shipping cartons and packing material for the carrier's inspection. The
manufacturer will arrange for repair or replacement of your instrument
immediately, before the shipping-related claim is settled.
Refer to the unpacking instructions and Figures 1 through 4 on the following
pages when removing the instrument and its accessories from the shipping
container.
See Repackaging and Shipping the ELx800 at the end of this chapter for
complete shipping instructions.

Packing Materials PN
Outer shipping container 7332036
Inner shipping container (accessories) 7330002
Left foam end caps 7332060
Right foam end caps 7332061
2-Mil poly bag (ELx800) 98085
8 x 11 bubble bag (power supply) 91083

Required Tools PN
Slotted and Phillips-head screwdrivers 98145

Unpacking and Inspecting the ELx800 | 15

Unpacking the Instrument and Its Accessories
1. Carefully open the top of the box, and remove the power supply shelf
(Figure 1).
2. Remove the top foam end caps, manual, and Declaration of Conformity.

Figure 1: Removing the power supply and shelf
Power supply
Shelf

ELx800 Operators Manual

3. Lift the reader out of the box and remove the foam end caps
(Figure 2). Place the reader on a level surface and remove the
instrument from the plastic bag.

Figure 2: Removing the foam end caps
Right
end cap
Unit inside 26 x 32
2-Mil poly bag
Unpacking
instructions
Left end cap

Unpacking and Inspecting the ELx800 | 17

4. Carefully turn the ELx800 upside down on a level surface.
5. Use the slotted screwdriver to remove the four screws from the top
cover mounting (Figure 3) and shipping straps from the bottom of the
instrument. Set aside these screws.

Figure 3: Removing the top cover mounting screws

Shipping straps
Top cover

6. Turn the instrument right side up.
7. Remove the shipping block (Figure 4).

Figure 4: Removing the shipping block
Shipping block
8. Replace the top cover. Turn the instrument upside down and replace
the mounting screws.
9. Remove the shipping straps from the top of the carrier. Save these for
repackaging/shipping.

Setting Up the ELx800 | 19

Setting Up the ELx800
Operating Environment
The ELx800 is designed to operate optimally when installed on a level surface
in an area where ambient temperatures remain between 18C (64.4F) and 40C
(104F). The reader is sensitive to extreme environmental conditions, and these
conditions should be avoided:
Excessive humidity: Condensation directly on the sensitive electronic
circuitry can cause the instrument to fail internal self-checks.
Excessive ambient light: Bright sunlight or strong incandescent light
can reduce the linear performance range of the instrument.
Dust: Optical density readings may be affected by extraneous particles
(such as dust) in the microplate wells. A clean work area is necessary to
ensure accurate readings.
Electrical Connections

Caution! Power Supply. Only use the specified power
supply to ensure proper operation of the unit. The ELx800 has
a universal 24-VDC, 2-Amp power supply that functions from
100 to 240 V~ ( 10.0%) @ 50 to 60 Hz without external
switching.
Never use a two-prong plug adapter to connect primary
power to the ELx800 power supply. Use of a two-prong
adapter disconnects the utility ground, creating a severe
shock hazard. Always connect the supply power cord directly
to a three-prong receptacle with a functional ground.
1. Connect the power cord to the external power supply.
2. Plug the rounded end of the power supply line cord into the power
supply jack on the rear of the instrument.
3. Tighten the knurled nut on the power supply outlet to ensure that
the plug does not pull out.
4. Plug the 3-prong end of the power cord into an appropriate power
receptacle.

Warning! Power Rating. The ELx800 power supply 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.

Power-Up and System Test
After you have installed the ELx800 and connected the power supply, turn
on the instrument to run a system test. The on/off switch is located on the
lower right side of the base.
The System Test begins with a check of the stepper motors and the analog
power supplies, to ensure that they have a proper input voltage level. The
data flash checksum, motor axis, and analog offset are then verified. The
photodetectors dark current, noise, and gain are checked to ensure they
fall within specific pass/fail criteria.
If an error is detected, the reader will chirp and display an error code.
See Chapter 6 for a list of error codes. If no errors are detected, the reader
will briefly display SYSTEM TEST PASS.
The power-up system test does not produce a printed results report. To run
the test manually and obtain a printout of the system test values, start at
the Main Menu and press UTIL TESTS SYSTEM. See System Test
and Checksum Test in Chapter 4, or Connecting a Printer to the
ELx800 on page 22 for more information.
ELx800 Main Menu
Following successful power-up of the ELx800, the Main Menu appears:
R E A D Y 0 1 : 2 2 P M 0 1 / 2 3 / 0 4
R E A D D E F I N E R E P O R T U T I L
The Main Menu permits access to all onboard functions. See Main
Menu in Chapter 3 for more information, including a diagram
showing the flow of functionality (Figure 14).
The ELx800 front panel contains four circular buttons, referred to in
this manual as SOFT KEYS. One SOFT KEY is positioned directly
below each selectable option in the display. To select a menu option,
simply press its corresponding SOFT KEY. See ELx800 Front
Panel in Chapter 3 for additional instructions.


Configuring Global Default Options
The ELx800 contains several global configurable options, such as date and time,
report output, and plate reading preferences. These options are accessed via the
Select Utility Option menu (Figure 5 below), and include:
SETUP: Set the current date and time, as well as the date and time formats.
OUTPUT: Specify where plate data should be sent, to a printer, a computer,
or to both. Additional options include report format (Column and/or
Matrix), and whether or not to print standard curves.
READ: Enable or disable read-time prompting for Plate ID, Sample ID, and
Sample Count. Specify whether or not to read in Rapid mode.

Note: Refer to Using the Utility Options in Chapter 3 for
more specific information on setting up the ELx800.
READY 09:14AM 09/08/04
READ DEFINE REPORT UTIL
REPORT OUTPUT: PRINT
PRINT COMPUTER BOTH
SELECT UTILITY OPTION:
TESTS SETUP OUTPUT READ
PROMPT FOR PLATE ID? YES
YES NO
EDIT SETUP INFORMATION:
DATE TIME FILTER *MORE

Figure 5: Global configuration options available under UTIL

Connecting a Printer to the ELx800

Connect the printer to the ELx800 only if you are
running the instrument in standalone mode. If you
are using Bio-Teks KCjunior or KC4 software,
skip this step, and go to page 24, Setting Up the
Serial Port for Communications.

The ELx800 has a parallel port (LPT1) to allow connection to Epson-
compatible printers or HP Deskjet printers. (See Specifying Data
Output and Reporting Options in Chapter 3 for more information.) The
port is illustrated in Figure 6. The parallel port requires a 25-pin D-sub
connector. A parallel cable (PN 71072) designed to connect the reader to a
printer is provided with the ELx800.
To attach a printer to the ELx800:
1. Turn the reader off.
2. Place the printer in a location adjacent to the ELx800.
3. Attach one end of the cable to the parallel port on the printer.
4. Attach the other end of the cable to the parallel port on the ELx800.
5. Tighten the securing screws on both ends of the cable.
6. Turn on the reader, and then turn on the printer.

To avoid system instability, be sure to connect the
printer to the reader before powering up the reader.

Note: For the latest list of compatible printers, consult the
Bio-Tek Web site (www.biotek.com), or call Bio-Tek
Instruments' Technical Assistance Center (refer to
Chapter 1 for contact information).

Figure 6: Connectors for printer (parallel), computer (serial), and power supply
Power supply jack
Parallel port
(printer port)
Serial port

Setting Up the Serial Port for Communications
With Other Devices
Before serial communication can be initiated between the ELx800 and another
device (such as a host PC running Bio-Teks KCjunior or KC4 software), the
communication parameters must match between the devices.
The ELx800 has a 25-pin serial (RS-232) port located on the rear panel of the
instrument. The serial port allows the reader to communicate with a computer,
using standard communications software and/or RS-232 protocols.
The serial port also allows field upgrades of the ELx800 software.
Appendix A contains information on required protocols for
computer control of the reader.
Attaching the Cable
1. Power down the computer and the ELx800.
2. Connect the appropriate serial cable to both machines. The serial
port on the reader is a DTE configuration with a 25-pin (pin-male)
D-sub connector.
3. Power up the reader and the computer.
4. Ensure that the ELx800 and the computer are operating with the
same communications settings.
Setting Communication Parameters
The readers default communication parameters are:
9600 Baud Rate
8 Data Bits
2 Stop Bits
No Parity
The baud rate can be changed to 1200 or 2400 bps, if
necessary. The Data Bits, Stop Bits, and Parity settings
cannot be changed.
Setting Up the Serial Port for Communications With Other Devices | 25

To change the baud rate from the instrument keypad:
1. At the Main Menu, press UTIL.

R E A D Y 1 2 : 4 5 P M 0 1 / 2 3 / 0 4
2. At the SELECT UTILITY OPTION screen, press SETUP.
S E L E C T U T I L I T Y O P T I O N :
T E S T S S E T U P O U T P U T R E A D

3. At the EDIT SETUP INFORMATION screen, press *MORE, and then
RS232 to continue.
E D I T S E T U P I N F O R M A T I O N
D A T E T I M E F I L T E R * M O R E

E D I T S E T U P I N F O R M A T I O N ?
R S 2 3 2 C A L P L A T E * M O R E

4. The SELECT BAUD RATE screen will appear, showing the currently
defined Baud Rate:
S E L E C T B A U D R A T E : 9 6 0 0
1 2 0 0 2 4 0 0 9 6 0 0 V I E W
Select the desired baud rate.
Select VIEW , if you wish, to see the readers other
communication settings.

R S 2 3 2 S E T T I N G : N O P A R I T Y
2 S T O P - B I T S 8 D A T A - B I T S

To change the baud rate (or other communications settings) in KC4 or
KCjunior, refer to their respective user guides, or to Appendix A,
Computer Control.

Installing Additional Filters
Installed in the internal, five-position filter wheel are the filters that come
standard with the ELx800 (standard models have 405, 450, 490, 630 nm filters;
the UV models filter set is 405, 450, 490, 630 and 340 nm).

Important! Keep track of all filter locations. The
physical location of the filters must match the filter
locations mapped in the readers software filter table.
The filter wheel must have no empty locations; all
locations must be filled with either a filter or a blank
plug. Install all filters with the arrow denoting the
light direction pointing downward.

Figure 7: Filter wheel assembly
Optics arm
Filter wheel
Thumbscrew
Filter wheel cover
Filter
Installing Additional Filters | 27

If you wish to install additional filters, or change the filter locations:
1. Turn off the unit and disconnect the power cord.
2. Tape down the carrier in the home (full out) position to prevent
movement while the instrument is being handled.
3. Carefully turn the instrument upside down on a level surface.
4. Using a slotted screwdriver, remove the four screws from the bottom of
the instrument (see Figure 3).
5. Hold on to both the instrument base and the top case to prevent the
detachment of the case from the body of the instrument.
6. Carefully turn the instrument right side up and remove the top cover.
With the cover off, the instruments mechanics and optics are exposed.
The filter wheel is housed within the small black box (filter wheel
cover) directly under the end of the optics arm (Figure 7).
7. Remove the four thumbscrews around the perimeter of the cover. The
filter wheel sits on a pin and can be lifted off.
8. Remove the filters by turning the wheel upside down over a cloth. The
filters, which are labeled with the wavelength and light direction arrow,
should easily slide out.
9. When replacing the filters in the wheel, handle them from the edges. Do
not touch the glass portion of the filter. Clean any filters that appear
dirty with lens paper and isopropyl alcohol.
10. Once the filters are installed in the filter wheel, place the wheel back on
the pin in the base of the instrument, making sure the filter wheel is
sitting flat and that it meshes with the filter wheel drive gear.
11. Install the filter wheel cover with the four thumbscrews.
Note: The cover can only be installed one way.
12. Place the top cover on the base, and carefully turn the instrument
upside down.
13. Reinstall the 4 screws with washers to hold the top cover in place.
14. Connect the power supply and cable to the rear of the instrument.

Important! Store unused filters in a cool, dry place
away from direct sunlight. The filters can be wrapped
in a piece of lens paper to protect them from scratches
and dust accumulation.

Checking the Readers Filter Table Setting
After installing new filters, ensure that the ELx800s filter table (the
readers software reference for filter locations) matches the physical
location of the filters.
To check or change the software filter table:
1 Power up the reader. At the Main Menu Screen, press UTIL to
display the SELECT UTILITY OPTION menu.

R E A D Y 9 : 4 5 A M 0 1 / 3 1 / 0 3


2 From the SELECT UTILITY OPTION menu, press SETUP. The
Edit Setup Information screen appears on the display.

E D I T S E T U P I N F O R M A T I O N :

3 From this menu, press FILTER.
4 The wavelength for Filter #1 will be displayed. To advance to
Filter 2, press ENTER.
5 To change the filter wavelength number, use the NUMERIC
keypad to enter a number at the cursor location. The cursor will
automatically advance to the next editable field. Press ENTER to
save the entry and move to the next filter on the filter table.
Installing Additional Filters | 29

E N T E R
F I L T E R # 1 W A V E L E N G T H : 4 0 5

When the last filter has been entered, the software exits the filter
routine, and displays the following screen:

6 Press the Main Menu key to return to the main menu.


Repackaging and Shipping the ELx800

IMPORTANT! Failure to properly repackage the
reader increases the likelihood of damage to the
instrument during shipping. The shipping system
was designed to stabilize the readers mechanical
mechanisms, which would otherwise be free to move
around during shipping.

If you need to ship the ELx800 Reader to Bio-Tek for service or repair, be sure
to use the original packing. Other forms of commercially available packing are
not recommended and can void the warranty.
If the original packing materials have been damaged or lost, contact Bio-Tek for
replacement packing (see Technical Assistance in Chapter 1 for contact
information).

Warning! If the reader has been exposed to
potentially hazardous material, decontaminate it to
minimize the risk to all who come in contact with the
reader during shipping, handling, and servicing.
Decontamination prior to shipping is required by U.S.
Department of Transportation regulations.

Before Repackaging the Instrument
1. Decontaminate the reader before repackaging it. (See
Chapter 5, Maintenance and Decontamination, for the
Decontamination procedure.)
2. Once the reader is clean, follow the instructions on the next few
pages to repackage the instrument.
Repackaging and Shipping the ELx800 | 31

Repackaging the ELx800 and Its Accessories
Refer to Figures 8 through 13 when repackaging the ELx800.
1. Move the carrier to the home position.
2. Turn off the unit and unplug the power supply.
3. Wrap the shipping straps around the carrier as shown in Figure 8.

Figure 8: Securing the carrier
Shipping
straps
Carrier

4. While holding the carrier, carefully turn the instrument over and
hook the shipping straps around the shaft (Figure 9).
5. Remove the four top cover mounting screws.
6. Lift the instrument off the cover and turn it over.

Figure 9: Hooking the shipping straps around the shaft
Shipping
straps
Top cover
Mounting screws
Post


7. Install the shipping block. Place the groove in the shipping block
over the shaft and screw it down (Figure 10).

Figure 10: Installing the shipping block
Shaft
Shipping
block

8. Turn the instrument over and install the top cover that was removed
in step 6 (Figure 11).

Figure 11: Reinstalling the top cover
Mounting screws
Top cover

9. Turn the instrument right side up, and put the end caps on the unit
(Figure 12).

Figure 12: Reattaching the end caps
Right
end cap
26 x 32 2-Mil
poly bag
Left end cap

10. Place the unit with the end caps into the box (Figure 13).


11. Place the shelf into the notched-out area in the end cap, and the
power supply into an 8 x 11 bubble bag. Place the power supply
on the shelf. (Figure 13).

Figure 13: Placing the unit in the box
Power supply
Shelf


Preparing the Shipping Container
1. Obtain a Return Materials Authorization (RMA) number from
Bio-Teks Technical Assistance Center through Bio-Teks Web site,
fax, or e-mail address listed in Chapter 1.
2. When obtaining the RMA, explain whether the reader requires
calibration, cleaning, periodic maintenance, warranty work, and/or
repair. Make a note of any error messages displayed and their
frequency.
3. Provide Bio-Tek with the name and contact information of a person
who may be contacted if questions arise.
4. Close the box and tape it shut.
5. Write RMA and the RMA number in large, clear letters on the
outside of the shipping container, and ship the instrument to the
Bio-Tek address provided in the Technical Support section of
Chapter 1.

Chapter 3
Operation

This chapter includes instructions for operating the ELx800 and its
software.
ELx800 Front Panel ................................................................. 40
Overview............................................................................... 42
Recommendations for Achieving Optimum Performance................ 42
System Startup ...................................................................... 43
Main Menu............................................................................. 44
Define................................................................................... 46
Define (Method, Map, Formula and Curve).................................. 49
Defining METHOD............................................................... 49
Defining MAP ..................................................................... 53
Defining FORMULA.............................................................. 69
Defining CURVE ................................................................. 81
Reading a Microplate............................................................... 88
Selecting an Assay to Run ................................................... 89
Printing Reports...................................................................... 93
Editing Standard Outliers..................................................... 94
Printing Results.................................................................. 96
Using the Utility Options .......................................................... 97
Setting the Date and Time................................................... 97
Viewing/Editing the Filter Table ............................................ 98
Specifying Data Output and Reporting Options........................ 99
Selecting Read Options ....................................................... 101
40 | Chapter 3: Operation

ELx800 Front Panel

Main
Menu
Previous
Screen
Options
Main
Menu
Previous
Screen
Options
7 8 9
1 2 3
0
.
G H
A B C
4 5 6
D E F
Shift
CLEAR ENTER
STOP READ
R E A D Y 9 : 4 5 A M 0 9 / 1 2 / 0 4

Figure 14: Keyboard
ELx800 Front Panel | 41

The keypad has four SOFT KEYS, one below each selectable menu
option. Press a SOFT KEY to make a selection. For example, from the
Main Menu, press the leftmost SOFT KEY to select READ, the
rightmost to select UTIL.
Exit the current screen and return to the Main Menu. Pressing Main
Menu while defining or modifying an assay automatically saves the
current settings.
Cycle through available options within a screen. For example, press
Options within the Select Assay Number screen to cycle through
the names of the onboard assays.

Pressing ENTER generally saves the current screen settings and
advances to the next screen in a series.

Pressing Previous Screen generally saves the current screen settings
and returns control to the screen most previously viewed.
Press CLEAR to reset a numeric value to 0, or to clear all characters
when editing an assay name. Tip: Press Shift + Clear at the Map
Generation screen to clear a previously defined manual map.

Move the cursor to the left in data-entry screens.

Move the cursor to the right in data-entry screens.

Initiate a plate read.

Halt the read currently in progress.
7G
Press a number to enter it in a data-entry screen.
Shift + 7G
Press Shift + a number (for example, Shift + 7G) to enter the
letter, then press Options to advance through the alphabet.
Main
Menu
Options
ENTER
Previous
Screen
CLEAR

READ
STOP

Overview

IMPORTANT! Do not turn on the instrument until the
carrier shipping block has been removed.

The ELx800 features a 25-pad keypad and a 2-line x 24-character LCD display, allowing
you to access the readers program menus and print test results. The readers bidirectional
serial port allows computer control of the instrument, and provides the means for
downloading additional assay definition files to the instrument. This chapter describes the
operation of the open (configurable) assays onboard the ELx800.
Recommendations for Achieving Optimum
Performance
Microplates should be perfectly clean and free of 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 when not reading the plate. Filter solutions to remove
particulates that could cause erroneous readings.
Although the readers support standard flat, U-bottom, and V-bottom microplates,
optimum performance is achieved with optically clear, flat-bottomed wells.
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.
Inaccuracy in pipetting has a large effect on measurements, especially if smaller volumes
of liquid are used. For best results, use at least 100 l per well in a 96-well plate and 25 l
in a 384-well plate.
Dispensing 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; however, for best results, remove the air bubbles by degassing the plate in a
vacuum chamber before reading.
The inclination of the meniscus can reduce reading accuracy in some solutions, especially
with small volumes. Agitate the microplate before reading to help bring this problem
within acceptable limits. Use Tween 20, if possible (or some other wetting agent) to
normalize the meniscus. Some solutions develop menisci over a period of several minutes.
This effect varies with the brand of microplate and the solution composition. As the center
of the meniscus drops and shortens the light path, the density readings change.
System Startup | 43

System Startup
To turn on the ELx800, press the on/off switch on the right side of the readers base. The
ELx800 will perform a System Test, displaying the screens shown below until initialization
is complete. During this period, all keys are inactive.
If the instrument fails the System Test, a chirp will sound, and an error code will display.
Refer to System Self-Test and Checksum Test in Chapter 4 for more
information.
Refer to Chapter 6, Troubleshooting and Error Codes to interpret error codes,
and Chapter 1, Introduction for information on contacting Bio-Tek Instruments
Technical Assistance Center (TAC).

P o w e r u p S e q u e n c e V x . x x
I n i t i a l i z i n g . . .

B i o - T e k I n s t r u m e n t s
S y s t e m S e l f - T e s t


Main Menu
Following successful power-up of the ELx800, the Main Menu appears:

R E A D Y 9 : 4 5 A M 0 1 / 3 1 / 0 3

The Main Menu permits access to all reader functions (Figure 15):
READ option (or, press the key labeled READ on the keyboard) for plate-
reading prompts. You will be asked to select from a list of preprogrammed
assays.
DEFINE option: Allows the creation of a reading and data reduction protocol.
You will be prompted to select an assay from an assay definition list.
REPORT option: Allows printing of results and protocol descriptions. You will
be prompted for the name of a previously run assay with valid data.
UTIL option: You will be prompted to select options from the list of onboard
utilities.

READY 09:14AM 09/08/04
READ DEFINE REPORT UTIL
SELECT UTILITY OPTION:
TESTS SETUP OUTPUT READ
PRINT REPORT:
RESULT MAP ASSAY LIST
SELECT ASSAY NUMBER: 53
NAME: 53_Bordetella M
SELECT ASSAY NUMBER: 53
NAME: 53_Bordetella M

Figure 15: Options available from the Main Menu
Main Menu | 45

Important: On some Universal Microplate Readers,
Assay 01 has been designed to allow for quick and
simple programming. It appears as _Quick Read on
the display. Most of the options available in Assays
2-55, and described in this section, are unavailable for
programming within Quick Read. You can quickly
access the Quick Read assay by selecting READ from
the main menu.

The Quick Read assay default DEFINE settings are shown below, and cannot be edited,
except where noted.
Method
Single Wavelength 405 nm (editable)

Map
96-well plate geometry
Blank on Air
Automap
Map starting location A1
Samples only (no blanks, standards or controls)
Sample count prompted at runtime (can be turned off in UTIL|READ options)

Define
The Main Menu option DEFINE allows you to define the data acquisition and reduction
parameters for a new assay, or modify previously defined assays stored in memory.
1. Start at the Main Menu and select DEFINE to display the SELECT ASSAY
NUMBER screen.
S E L E C T A S S A Y N U M B E R : 0 1
N A M E : H B S -A G 1
2. Select an assay to define or modify, and then press ENTER. See Selecting an
Assay to Define on page 48 for detailed instructions. The EDIT ASSAY NAME
screen will appear.
If you are modifying/selecting a PANEL assay (#99), see page 85 for
instructions.
- / : S P A C E
3. (Optional) Edit the assay name, and then press ENTER. See Editing the Assay
Name on page 48 for detailed instructions. The DEFINE menu will appear:
D E F I N E :
M E T H O D M A P F O R M U L A C U R V E
The following options are available within the DEFINE menu:
METHOD: Define the wavelength type (single or dual), wavelength(s), and
plate geometry (page 49).
MAP: Specify the plate layout, using blanks, controls, standards, and/or
samples. Choose to map the plate manually, or let the software map it
automatically (page 53).
FORMULA: Define cutoff, transformation, and validation formulas. Create
variables to be used within formulas (page 69).
CURVE: Specify a curve fit type and x/y axis types (lin/log). Specify whether
or not standard outliers can be edited, and then the method by which they will
be edited. Enable or disable the extrapolation feature (page 81).
Define | 47

Programming Note
Assays with certain criteria may lock up during the Calculating Results
phase of data reduction (see Beginning the Plate Read on page 92). This can be
corrected by modifying assay criteria as follows:
Specify at least one (01) sample when mapping the plate, and/or
Change PROMPT SAMPLE COUNT? to YES.
Set CURVE FIT to NONE if you do not have a standard curve as part of the
assay.
1 From the Main Menu, press DEFINE MAP, and continue to press
ENTER until ENTER NUMBER OF SAMPLES is displayed. Enter at least
one sample.
The software will lock up if zero (00) samples are selected.
E N T E R N U M B E R O F
S A M P L E S : 0 1
2 From the Main Menu, press UTIL READ, and continue to press
ENTER until PROMPT SAMPLE COUNT? is displayed. Select YES.

P R O M P T S A M P L E C O U N T ? Y E S
Y E S N O
3 From the Main Menu, press DEFINE SELECT ASSAY NUMBER:
ENTER. At the DEFINE: menu, press CURVE to display CURVE-FIT
TYPE: and select NONE.

C U R V E - F I T T Y P E : N O N E
N O N E L I N E A R Q U A D * M O R E


Selecting an Assay to Define
To select an assay to define or modify, start at the Main Menu and select DEFINE
to display the SELECT ASSAY NUMBER screen.
1. Use the numeric keys to enter the number of any predefined Assay
Definition Files stored in the readers memory, or the Options key to
advance one assay at a time. The cursor is positioned at the first editable
field, and advances automatically. The numeric range depends on the
number of assays stored in the readers memory.
The ELx800 has 55 open assays available; the EL800 has only 10.
2. Press ENTER to advance to the EDIT ASSAY NAME screen. You may
change the default assay name to a more descriptive one (see Editing the
Assay Name below):
CLEAR: Clears the readers display.
MAIN MENU: Returns the display to the Main Menu screen.
PREVIOUS SCREEN: Returns the display to the previous screen.
ENTER: Saves the current settings and advances to the next screen.
Editing the Assay Name
Use the EDIT NAME screen to edit the name currently assigned to the assay. The
assay name can contain up to 16 alphanumeric characters.
N A M E : H B S - A G 1
- / : S P A C E

The cursor is positioned at the first editable field (e.g., under H). Use the
alpha and numeric keys to change the assay name.
Use the Options key to sequentially advance the character positioned
above the cursor. The characters will cycle through the alphabet (A-Z), with
a space following Z.
Use the left and right arrow keys to move the cursor to the previous or
next editable field. The cursor will wrap around the edit field.
Use the CLEAR key to remove the assay name from the display.
Use SOFT KEYS 1, 2, 3, and 4 to select a dash, forward slash, colon, or
space for inclusion in the assay name.
Define (Method, Map, Formula and Curve) | 49

Define (Method, Map, Formula and Curve)
The DEFINE screen allows you to edit the Method, Map, Formula, or Curve Fit
parameters for the currently selected assay.
D E F I N E :

Press the SOFT KEY beneath the displayed option to access the following functions:
METHOD: Specify the wavelength type, wavelength, filter(s), and plate
geometry.
MAP: Specify mapping information.
FORMULA: Access the formula entry screens.
CURVE FIT: Specify curve-fit options.
Defining METHOD
Defining a method includes selecting:
Single or dual wavelength
Filter(s)
Plate geometry

The options appear on the display in the order that they
were programmed in the assay. If the assay contains a closed
variable (i.e., an element of the assay definition that you
cannot access or modify), the entry screen is skipped.


Single or Dual Wavelength

W A V E L E N G T H : D U A L
S I N G L E D U A L

1. Select SINGLE or DUAL wavelength.
2. Press ENTER to continue.

The WAVELENGTH selection screen allows you to select SINGLE or DUAL
wavelength for the assay.
If SINGLE wavelength is chosen, the reader measures the optical density of each
well with a single filter.
If DUAL wavelength is chosen, each well is read twice, each time with a different
filter. The microplate is not removed from the reading chamber between the two
measurements. The final reported optical density is the difference between the two
readings (the delta OD). Dual-wavelength readings can significantly reduce optical
interference caused by scratched or fingerprinted microplates, since the scratches
or fingerprints reduce the amount of light on both wavelengths.
The currently selected wavelength appears on the top line of the display, and the
available options appear on the bottom.
MEAS Selection
The MEAS selection screen allows you to select the filter(s) for the assay.

M E A S : 4 5 0 R E F : 6 3 0
4 0 5 4 5 0 4 9 0 6 3 0

1. Select the wavelength.
2. Use the right arrow key to move the cursor to REF and then select the
Reference Filter.
3. Press ENTER to move to the next screen.

Plate Type
For 6- to 384-well standard plates, the plate types and sizes included in the
software onboard the ELx800 are based on the brands listed below. For best
measurement results, use these brands when operating the ELx800 via its onboard
software.

Plate Type Brand
6-well Costar
12-well Corning
24-well Corning
48-well Costar
96-well Costar
384-well
Nunc square*
96 T
Terasaki*
72 T
Terasaki*
60 T
Terasaki*

*Used only on ELx800NB version
The PLATE TYPE selection screen allows you to select the geometry of the plate
that will be used for the assay. Press *MORE to cycle through the available options.
Note: The NB version of the reader includes choices for 384-well, or
72- and 96-well Terasaki plate formats. An adapter (P/N 7330531) is
available from Bio-Tek if Terasaki plates are to be used with the NB
reader.

P L A T E T Y P E : 9 6 W E L L S
2 4 4 8 9 6 3 8 4

6 1 2 2 4 * M O R E


4 8 9 6 9 6 H * M O R E

9 6 M * M O R E

Press *MORE to cycle through the available options.
6: 6-well (2 x 3) 96: 96-well (8 x 12)
12: 12-well (3 x 4) 96H: 96-well Hellma Quartz (8 x 12)
24: 24-well (4 x 6) 96M: 96-well Metric (8 x 12, 9 mm well
48: 48-well (6 x 8) spacing)

Defining MAP
The MAP GENERATION screen allows you to edit or specify the following options
in the assay:
Automatic or manual map generation
Mapping direction
Replication direction
Blank Map Selection
Blanking constant
Number of Blanks
Location of Blanks
Number of Standards
Number of Standard Replicates
Averaging of Standards
Concentration and Location of Standards
Number of Controls
Control Type Definition
Number of Control Replicates
Control Location
Number of Samples
Number of Sample Replicates
Sample Location

Important! The NB reader using 384-well geometry does
not have access to map, formula, or curve options. The
384-well plate type is preset for the map to have 384
samples. This does not include any blanking, controls, or
standards. (Selecting 6-, 12-, 24-, 48-, or 96-well geometries
enables data reduction capabilities.)


MAP screens appear in the order that they were defined in the assay. If the
assay has a closed variable, the screen for this variable is omitted.

D E F I N E :

At the DEFINE options screen, select MAP to begin the plate map process.
Map Generation
Map Generation represents the method by which blanks, controls, standards,
and/or samples are assigned to specific locations on the plate.
M A P G E N E R A T I O N : M A N U A L
A U T O M A N U A L
Select AUTOMATIC PLATE MAP GENERATION to instruct the software
to automatically generate a plate map after the blanks, controls,
standards, and/or samples have been defined.
Select MANUAL PLATE MAP GENERATION to indicate that the well
assignments will be performed manually (by the user) at Define and/or
Read time.
Press ENTER to save the selection and continue.

Use the SHIFT-CLEAR keys to clear any previously defined
manual map.


Mapping Direction
This option allows you to specify how the blank, control, standard, or sample
groups will be mapped on the plate. The well types can be listed in column
format (down) or in row format (across). The currently selected Mapping
Direction appears on the top line of the display, and the available options
appear on the bottom.

M A P P I N G D I R E C T I O N : D O W N
D O W N A C R O S S

Select DOWN to map down the column.
Select ACROSS to map across the row.

Replication Direction
This option allows you to specify how replicates are mapped on the plate.
The currently selected Replication Direction appears on the top line of the
display, and the available options appear on the bottom.

R E P D I R E C T I O N : A C R O S S
D O W N A C R O S S

Select DOWN to map the replicates down the column, following the
direction of the map listing.
Select ACROSS to map the replicates across (in a paired format). As an
example, two replicates can be placed in A1 and A2 wells. The third
replicate would follow in B1. The next standard control, or sample,
would follow in B2.
Examples of mapping directions are shown on the next page.


Examples of Mapping Directions
Map Direction DOWN, Rep Direction DOWN:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
A STD1 STD5 SMP
B STD1 STD5 SMP
C STD2 PC SMP
D STD2 PC
E STD3 NC
F STD3 NC
G STD4 SMP
H STD4 SMP
Map Direction ACROSS, Rep Direction ACROSS:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
A STD1 STD1 STD2 STD2 STD3 STD3 STD4 STD4 STD5 STD5 PC PC
B NC NC SMP SMP SMP SMP SMP SMP
C
D
E
F
G
H
Map Direction DOWN, Rep Direction ACROSS:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
A STD1 STD1
B STD2 STD2
C STD3 STD3
D STD4 STD4
E STD5 STD5
F PC PC
G NC NC
H SMP SMP
Map Direction ACROSS, Rep Direction DOWN:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
A STD1 STD2 STD3 STD4 STD5 PC NC SMP SMP
B STD1 STD2 STD3 STD4 STD5 PC NC SMP SMP
C
D
E
F
G
H

Start Mapping at Well Location
The Start Mapping at Well Location screen is only shown if automatic mapping
is selected. This option allows you to enter the location of the well that will be
the starting point for automatic mapping.

S T A R T M A P P I N G
A T W E L L L O C A T I O N : A 0 1

Use the numeric and alpha keys to enter a letter or number at the
cursor location. For any well location, only the alpha keys are active for
the first character and numeric for the second and third characters. The
valid entry range is from A01 to the last well on the plate, depending on
the plate type and the number of blanks, standards, controls, and/or
samples defined in the assay.
Press ENTER to save the well location and continue.


Blank Map
This option allows you to select which blanking method to apply to the assay.
The blanking options, AIR, FULL and CONSTANT; ROW and COLUMN; and
P-ACROSS and P-DOWN are displayed on three screens.

B L A N K M A P : F U L L
A I R F U L L C O N S T * M O R E

R O W C O L U M N * M O R E

P - A C R O S S P - D O W N * M O R E

Select the BLANK MAP type (see the descriptions on the next page).
Press *MORE to cycle through the available options: ROW or COLUMN, and
P-ACROSS or P-DOWN.
Press ENTER to save the well location and continue.

Blank Map Definitions
AIR performs an initial reading on air just prior to the plate read,
and uses that value as the blank value. This value is subtracted from
each well on the plate.
FULL enables a single blank well or an average of blank wells to be
subtracted from the whole plate.
CONST (Constant) allows entry of a user-specified absorbance value.
This value will be subtracted from each well on the plate.
Tip for using CONST: Use a blank value from the first plate, or a
blanking plate, to save space on subsequent assay plates.
ROW enables a single blank well or an average of blank wells to be
selected for each row. The maximum number of blanks is 48. The
blank (or average) will be subtracted from each well in the row. Use
manual mapping to position blanks, controls, standards, and
samples.
COLUMN enables a single blank well or an average of blank wells to
be placed in each column. Since the maximum number of blanks is
12, and if all 12 columns are used, each column can have only one
blank. Manual mapping is recommended in this case. Replicates
follow in the same column as the first well of each sample, even if
the ACROSS direction has been specified for replicates.
P-ACROSS enables a blank in every even-numbered column to be
subtracted from the well to the left of it in every odd column.
Manual mapping is recommended to set up the appropriate map by
placing the standards, controls, and samples in only the odd
columns.
P-DOWN enables a blank in the B, D, F and H rows to be subtracted
from the well above in the A, C, E and G rows. Manual mapping is
recommended to set up the appropriate map by placing the
standards, controls, and samples in only the A, C, E, and G rows.


Constant Blank Value
This entry screen only appears when a CONSTANT BLANK map is selected.
Enter the value to be subtracted from each well on the plate.

E N T E R
B L A N K I N G C O N S T A N T : 1 . 2 0 0
Use the numeric keys to enter the value. The range is 0.000 to 3.000.
The cursor is positioned at the first editable field and advances
automatically.
Press CLEAR to clear the value on the display.
Press ENTER to continue.

Number of Blanks
The NUMBER OF BLANKS field allows you to enter the number of blank wells
in the assay. This entry screen is only displayed when Full, Column, or Row
blank maps is selected. Any previously defined value is displayed.

B L A N K S : 0 2

Use the numeric keys to enter the number of blanks. The range is 0 to
48.
Use the CLEAR key to clear the NUMBER OF BLANKS value from the
display.


Blank Location
The BLANK LOCATION screen allows you to define where the blank well or
wells occur on the microplate. This screen only appears if manual mapping
was selected.

E N T E R T H E L O C A T I O N O F
B L A N K # 1 : A 1 2

Use the numeric and alpha keys to enter a Blank Location, based upon
the plate geometry.
Use the arrow keys to move the cursor to the next or previous editable
field. The cursor is positioned beneath the first editable field.
Number of Standards
This option allows you to enter the number of standard groups that will be
used in the assay. Any previously defined value will be displayed on the
screen.
Note: If the number of standards is altered, the number of
replicates for the standard automatically reverts to 1.

S T A N D A R D S : 0 2

Use the numeric keys to enter the NUMBER OF STANDARDS. The valid
range depends on the selected curve fit method. The maximum number
of standards is 12. The minimum is 4 for 4-P fit, cubic, cubic spline, and
logit-log; 3 for quadratic; and 2 for linear and point-to-point.

Number of Standard Replicates
This option allows you to enter the number of replicates per standard group in
the assay. Any predefined value appears on the display.

S T A N D A R D R E P L I C A T E S : 0 2
Use the numeric keys to enter the NUMBER OF STANDARD
REPLICATES. The range is 1 to 8 replicates. The software will verify
that the number of replicates, multiplied by the number of standards,
does not exceed the number of wells on the plate.
Average Standards
The AVERAGE STANDARDS option allows you to select whether or not to
average the replicates of each standard group. This average is used to calculate
the standard curve instead of using the individual replicates of each standard.
If the number of standard replicates is 1, this option is not available.

A V E R A G E S T A N D A R D S ? Y E S
Y E S N O
Select YES to average the replicates for each standard group, and then
use the group averages when calculating the standard curve.
Select NO to use the individual standard replicates when calculating the
standard curve.


Standard Concentrations
The Standard Concentration field allows you to enter the predicted or expected
concentration value for each standard group. If manual mapping was
selected, the replicate locations must also be defined.

C O N C N O F L O C A T I O N
S T D 1 : 0 R E P # 1 : A 0 1

Use the numeric and alpha keys and the decimal point key to enter
standard concentration values. The range is 0.00001 to 999999. The entry
cannot exceed six characters including the decimal point.
If automatic mapping is selected, each replicates location is available
for viewing only. Pressing ENTER advances to the concentration value
entry for the next standard.
If manual mapping is selected, the location must be defined. Pressing
ENTER from the standard concentration entry moves the cursor to the
LOCATION field. Pressing ENTER from the LOCATION field advances to
the concentration value entry for the next standard.
Valid Well Locations
When defining the replicate locations, only the alpha keys are active for
the first character and numeric for the second and third characters. Valid
characters and numeric entries are based on the selected plate geometry.
The following table lists acceptable entries for well locations based on plate
geometry:

Plate Type Range
6-Well A01-B03
12-Well A01-C04
24-Well A01-D06
48-Well A01-F08
96-Well A01-H12
96H A01-H12
96M A01-H12


Reuse of Standard Curves
The ELx800 has the ability to reuse a standard curve that has already been
established.
Limitations of the Reuse of Standard Curves
Standard curves can only be reused in assay positions 31 through
55. Each of these positions can only store one standard curve.
Standard curves cannot be reused on panels (see page 85 for Panel
Definition).
Standard curves will be stored in memory with the Assay Name,
Standard Concentrations, Replicate Counts, and Optical Density
values for each standard replicate.
Stored standard curves can only be reused for the assay that the
curve was originally generated on (e.g., the curve for Assay 53
cannot be applied to samples on a plate to be run in Assay 51).
To reuse a standard curve, you must first program an assay (in
positions 31 through 55) and then run the assay. During the defining
process, you will be prompted to enter the number of standards, the
number of standard replicates, and the standard concentrations. The
following screen will appear after these prompts:

R E U S E S T A N D A R D C U R V E ? Y E S
Y E S N O

After the assay has been run, the results have been calculated, and the reports
have been generated, the reader will prompt if this standard curve should be
stored in memory. The following display will appear:

S A V E S T A N D A R D C U R V E ? Y E S
Y E S N O

Select YES to store the curve for use at a later time. The next time a plate is to
be read using this assay, the instrument will prompt if there are standards on
the plate. Select NO to discard the curve.


S T A N D A R D S O N P L A T E ? N O
Y E S N O

If YES is chosen, a new standard curve will be generated. The plate map is not
changed. (If Prompt for Sample ID is enabled in the UTIL section, you will be
prompted to enter the number of samples. See Other Utility Options in
Chapter 3 for more information on the UTIL options.)
If NO is chosen, the stored standard curve will be used. If Auto mapping had
been used to originally map the standards, blanks, controls and samples
defined for this assay, the map will be automatically regenerated without the
standards, beginning in well xxx (where xxx was chosen as the starting well in
the map, usually well A01). If manual mapping was used to map the plate,
the map is not regenerated the reader will not produce results for the well
positions that originally were standards. Auto mapping is recommended, if
the standards curves will be routinely reused.
Number of Controls
The NUMBER OF CONTROLS screen allows you to enter the number of control
groups that will be used in the assay. Any previously defined value will
appear on the display.

C O N T R O L S : 0 2

Use the numeric keys to enter the NUMBER OF CONTROLS groups in
the assay. For example, if the assay requires one or more positive
control wells and one or more negative control wells, enter 02.
The valid entry range depends on the number of locations on the plate
that are undefined. The maximum number of control groups is 8.


Control Type
This option allows you to enter the type of control used in the assay. Any
previously defined Control Type will be displayed on the screen.

C O N T R O L # 1 : P C
P C N C H P C * M O R E

C O N T R O L # 1 : P C
L P C C T L 1 C T L 2 * M O R E

C O N T R O L # 1 : P C
C T L 3 C T L 4 * M O R E

Choose one control identifier for each type of control in your assay. The
available options are: Positive Control, Negative Control, High Positive
Control, Low Positive Control, CTL1, CTL2, CTL3, CTL4.
After choosing an identifier for CONTROL# 1, press ENTER to choose
the identifier for the next control.
Number of Control Replicates
The NUMBER OF CONTROL REPLICATES entry screen is displayed if the
number of control groups is greater than 0.

R E P L I C A T E S O F P C : 0 2

The well ID associated with CONTROL# 1 appears first. Press ENTER to
advance to the next control.
Use the numeric keys to enter a value for Number of [Control]
Replicates.
The valid entry range is from 1 to 12 replicates. The software
automatically performs a check to ensure the number of replicates,
multiplied by the number of controls, does not exceed the number of
undefined wells remaining on the plate.

Location of Controls
Use this option to enter the location of controls in the assay.

C O N T R O L # 1 L O C A T I O N
T Y P E : P C R E P # 1 : A 0 2

The displayed location field can only be edited if manual
mapping was selected (see page 54). This screen is not
accessible in auto map.
Use the numeric and alpha keys to enter the well location for Rep #1
of Sample Group #1. Press ENTER to advance to the next replicate or
sample group.
Number of Samples
The number of sample groups on the plate can be defined here, and/or it can
be defined at run-time if UTIL READ PROMPT FOR SAMPLE COUNT?
is set to YES. See Selecting Read Options on page 101 for more information.

S A M P L E S : 2 4
Use the numeric keys to enter the number of sample groups on the
plate.
The range is 0 to the number of undefined well locations remaining on
the plate. For example, if there are no controls, blanks, or standards
defined on a 96-well plate, the maximum number of samples is 96, and
the minimum number of samples is 1.


Number of Sample Replicates
After the number of sample groups is entered, the NUMBER OF SAMPLE
REPLICATES entry screen is presented.

S A M P L E R E P L I C A T E S : 0 2

Use the numeric keys to enter the number of sample replicates.
The valid range is from 1 to 12 replicates. The software automatically
performs a check to ensure that the number of replicates multiplied by
the number of samples does not exceed the number of undefined wells
remaining on the plate.
Sample Location
If MANUAL MAP GENERATION is selected and samples are defined, the
locations for each sample replicate must be specified.

S A M P L E # 1 L O C A T I O N
R E P # 1 : C 0 2

Use the numeric and alpha keys to enter the well location for Rep #1
of Sample Group #1. Press ENTER to advance to the next replicate or
sample group.


Defining FORMULA
The ELx800 supports three types of formulas (Cutoff, Transformation, and
Validation), as well as the ability to program variables for use within formulas. Up
to three types of Validation formulas may be defined (Blank, Control, and Assay
Validation).
Formula definition is not available in the EL800 version.
To define formulas:
1. Start at the Main Menu and select DEFINE.
2. Select the assay then press ENTER to display the DEFINE options screen.

D E F I N E :
3. Select FORMULA. The SELECT FORMULA TYPE screen will appear
(described on the next page).
Calculation Structure
During data reduction, formulas are processed in the order shown below. The
number of permitted formulas of each type is shown as well.
Blank Validation 0-1
Control Validation 0-4
Assay Validation 0-4
Transformations 0-1
Cutoff Formulas 0-1
Curve-Fit Analysis (if a curve-fit method is defined)

To capture and manipulate the raw data using 384-well
microplates with the ELx800NB, you must use KCjunior
or KC4. KCjunior and KC4 are PC-based software
programs you can use to set up your assay, communicate
with the ELx800 to run the assay, and then manipulate the
raw data that is automatically retrieved from the reader.
See Refer to Appendix B for additional information.

Formula Type
The ELx800 supports three types of formulas, as well as the ability to define
variables for use within Transformation formulas.
Note: GENERAL formulas are not used.

S E L E C T F O R M U L A T Y P E :
C U T O F F T R A N S V A L * M O R E

S E L E C T F O R M U L A T Y P E :
G E N E R A L T R A N S - V A R * M O R E
CUTOFF formulas are used to classify results. During data reduction,
results are evaluated against the cutoff formulas, and each well is
assigned a user-specified label (POS, NEG, or EQUIV).
TRANSformation formulas are applied to the raw data in preparation
for further data reduction and/or curve fit calculation.
VALidation formulas can be used to determine whether or not blanks
and/or controls are valid. In addition, Assay Validation formulas can
be used to determine whether or not the entire assay should be
considered valid.
The TRANS-VAR option allows you to define a variable to be used in
transformation formulas.


Formula Entry
After the formula type is selected, the FORMULA ENTRY screen appears. Each
formula can contain a maximum of 24 characters. Spaces are not necessary.
Note: In formulas, OD is used to represent the optical density
value.
F O R M U L A # 1 :
M A T H O T H E R M A P F U N C T N

P C ; X > 1 . 2 0 0
M A T H O T H E R M A P F U N C T N
After a moment, the FORMULA #1: prompt disappears, and the formula
can be entered. Use the options found under MATH, OTHER, MAP, and
FUNCTN to build the formula.
To cycle through the available MATH, OTHER, MAP, or FUNCTION
options, continue to press the appropriate SOFT KEY. For example,
press the MATH SOFT KEY several times to see +, -, *, /, %, =, etc.
When the desired option appears, press the right arrow key to
select it and advance to the next editable field.
Press the left arrow key to move the cursor to the left.
Press CLEAR to delete the item above the cursor.
When a formula is complete, press ENTER to continue.
Select MATH to insert a mathematical symbol such as +, %, or <=.
Select OTHER to insert an opening ( or closing ) parenthesis, or
logical operators AND or OR.
Select MAP to insert a well ID such as BLK;x or NC;1.
Select FUNCTN to insert a mathematical function such as LOG or SQRT.

The reader software checks the formulas for errors
during data reduction. A syntax error in a formula will
result in a Token Error on results reports.

MATH
The following mathematical symbols can be used in formulas:

+ Addition == Equal to
- Subtraction > Greater than
* Multiplication >= Greater than or equal to
/ Division < Less than
% Percent <= Less than or equal to
OTHER
The following additional symbols can be used in formulas:

( Left parenthesis
) Right parenthesis
AND Logical AND
OR Logical OR
MAP
The available MAP options depend on the formula type and the current plate map.
MAP options resemble BLK;x (mean of the blank wells), NC;1 (the first NC well),
or OD (every well).
FUNCTION
The following functions can be used in formulas:

LOG10 Log Base 10 ALOG Anti Log
ALOG10 Anti Log Base 10 LOG Log
AB Absolute Value SQRT Square Root
PWR Power
EXAMPLES
LOG10- Log Base 10-
Log10 2 = 0.301029995
ALOG- Anti Log- ALOG (0.69314718) = 2
ALOG10- Anti Log Base 10-
ALOG10 (0.30102995) = 2
LOG- Log- LOG 2 = 0.69314718
AB- Absolute Value- AB (-1) = 1 SQRT- Square Root- SQRT 2 = 1.4142
PWR- Power- (10 PWR 2) = 100


Validation Formulas
Validation formulas can be used to determine whether or not blanks
and/or controls are valid. In addition, Assay Validation formulas can be
used to determine whether or not the entire assay should be considered
valid.
See Formula Type on page 70 for instructions on selecting an assay and
accessing the SELECT VALIDATION TYPE screen.
S E L E C T V A L I D A T I O N T Y P E :
C O N T R O L A S S A Y B L A N K

Control and Blank Validation Formulas
Blank Validation is used to ensure that the OD values for the blank
replicates, or for the blank mean, meet certain criteria. Control Validation
serves the same purpose as Blank Validation, but it applies to the control
replicates or control mean. If the criteria are not met, results are considered
suspect, and the message RESULTS INVALID! BLANK (OR CONTROL)
VALIDATION FAILED appears on results reports.
One blank validation formula can be defined.
Up to four control validation formulas can be defined.
Define the plate map (via DEFINE MAP) before creating blank or
control validation formulas.
Blank/Control validation can be performed on individual replicates
(BLK, PC), or on the group mean (BLK;x, NC;x).
Examples
If an assay protocol states that
Each blank well on a plate should have an OD of less than 0.050, the
formula is: BLK < 0.050
Each Positive Control replicate must have an OD higher than 1.000,
but less than 2.500, this can be accomplished with one formula:
PC>1.000ANDPC<2.500
Or with two separate formulas:
PC > 1.000 and PC < 2.500
Negative Control mean must have an OD of less than 0.100, the
formula is: NC;x < 0.100

Number of Required Controls/Blanks
If a control or blank validation formula is defined, enter the number of
valid controls or blanks that must meet the criteria established by that
formula.

P C : N U M B E R O F V A L I D
R E P L I C A T E S R E Q U I R E D : 0 2
Use the numeric keys to enter the NUMBER OF REQUIRED
CONTROLS. The range is 1 through the number of defined replicates
of a control or blank.
Press the CLEAR key to clear the displayed value.
Press ENTER to save the displayed value and advance to the next
screen, or use the Previous Screen key to move backward through
the menu structure.
Assay Validation Formulas
Assay Validation formula(s) establish a set of criteria used to determine
whether or not an assay can be considered valid. If the criteria are not met,
results are considered suspect, and the message RESULTS INVALID!
Assay validation failed appears on results reports.
Up to 4 assay validation formulas can be defined.
Define the plate map (via DEFINE MAP) before creating assay
validation formulas.
Examples
If an assay protocol states that for the assay to be valid:
The mean of the negative controls must be less than 0.100. The
formula is: NC;x<0.100
The mean of the positive controls must be greater than the mean of
the negative controls. The formula is: PC;x>NC;x


Transformation Formulas
Transformation formulas can be used to transform raw or blanked absorbance
data in preparation for further data reduction, including curve-fit analysis.
accessing the Transformation Formula definition screen.
If a blanking method is selected in the assay, transformation formulas
are applied to the blanked absorbance values; otherwise, they are
applied to the raw data. Turn to page 69 to review the results
calculation structure.
One transformation formula may be defined per assay.
A transformation formula can be simple (ex. (OD/2)*100 to multiply
all wells on the plate by 100), or more complex with the inclusion of a
predefined Transformation Variable (see TVAR, below).
Simple Transformation Formulas
Simple transformation formulas are typically applied to all wells on the
plate. For example:
To divide the OD in each well on the plate by 2 and then multiply
by 100, the formula is: (OD/2)*100
Transformation Variable (TVAR)
For more complex transformations, a Transformation Variable (TVAR) can
be defined for use within a transformation formula. This variable defines
the scope of the transformation: whether to apply the transformation to all
of the wells on the plate (OD), or just to the sample wells (SMP).
S C O P E V A R I A B L E : O D
S M P O D

If SMP is chosen:
- The transformation formula will be applied to the sample wells
only.
- SMP and any other well identifiers (BLK, PC, NC, STD, etc.)
defined will become available as MAP options when building the
transformation formula.
Example:
The assay plate map contains 2 NC wells and 2 PC wells. The
remainder of the map is filled with samples.
The assay data reduction requires that the mean of the NC be
subtracted from all the samples on the plate.
The transformation formula is: SMP-NC;x
If OD is chosen:
- The formula definition screen will appear so that you can define a
formula for use within the transformation formula.
- Use the formula keys (Math, Other, Map and Function) to define
the Transformation Variable (TVAR). Once the variable has been
defined, it can be used in a transformation formula. The TVAR
will be available as a MAP option when building the
transformation formula.
Example:
The assay plate map has 2 blanks, 1 control well in duplicate
(CTL1), 1 negative control well in triplicate (NC), and 5 standards
in duplicate (STD1-STD5).
The assay data reduction states:
- Subtract the mean of CTL1 from the mean of the NC. Subtract the
difference from all ODs on the plate.
- Divide the result of the above by the mean of the NC less the mean
of CTL1, and then multiply by 100.

On paper, the formula reads:
(OD-(NC;x-CTL1;x))/(NC;x-CTL1;x)*100
On the reader, the formula (NC;x-CTL1;x) will be programmed as the
TVAR, since the transformation will apply to all standards, controls,
and samples on the plate.
At the SCOPE VARIABLE selection screen, choose OD and press
ENTER.
Enter the formula (NC;x-CTL1;x) by using the MATH, OTHER,
MAP and FUNCTION keys. Press ENTER.
The formula definition screen is displayed. Choose TRANS.
Enter the formula (OD-(TVAR)/(TVAR)*100) using the MATH,
OTHER, MAP, and FUNCTION keys. (TVAR is available as MAP
option.)
Example:
In the case of competitive reactions, converting absorbance data to
percent B/B
0
can be: (OD/STD1)*100. This divides all the wells by
STD1,presumably the 0 standard, and multiplies the results by 100.
To do this:
At the SCOPE VARIABLE selection screen, choose OD and press
ENTER.
Enter STD1 as the TVAR formula. Press ENTER.
The formula selection screen is displayed. Choose TRANS.
Enter the formula (OD/TVAR)*100 using the MATH, OTHER,
MAP, and FUNCTION keys. TVAR is available as a MAP option.

Cutoff Formulas
A cutoff formula calculates a cutoff value that is used for classifying samples.
accessing the Cutoff formula definition screen.
During data reduction, results are evaluated against the cutoff value (with an
optional greyzone), and each well is assigned a call POS (positive), NEG
(negative), or EQUIV (equivocal).
One cutoff formula may be defined per assay.
If Transformation Formulas are defined, cutoffs are based on the
transformed results. Refer to Defining Formula on page 69 for the
order in which formulas are processed.
A cutoff formula can consist of a simple numeric value (1.500); a well
identifier (PC to indicate the criterion for each of the PC replicates, or
PC;x to indicate the average of the Positive Control replicates); or a
formula combining the two (NC;x+0.050).
A greyzone around the cutoff value can be defined, to indicate
equivocal or indeterminate results.
Do not use the < or > mathematical symbols in a cutoff formula.
Tip: Choose to print a Column Report to see the greyzone and cutoff
values as well as the equations used to assign calls to samples.
Greyzone Entry
The greyzone is a definable area around the cutoff value. Samples that fall
within an area defined by the greyzone (ex. 5.0% of the cutoff value)
could be considered equivocal (EQUIV).
E N T E R G R E Y Z O N E : 0 5 %

Use the numeric keys to enter the greyzone percentage.
The valid entry range is from 00 to 99%. An entry of 00% indicates
no greyzone, although a sample equal to the cutoff value will still
receive the EQUIV call.
See Positive / Negative Calls on the next page for information on
how calls are assigned.

Positive / Negative Calls for Cutoff
After the greyzone is defined, calls for the sample wells (POSitive, NEGative,
EQUIVocal) must be defined.
S A M P L E > C U T O F F + 0 5 % : P O S
P O S N E G
Select POS or NEG to select the call that will be assigned to samples
greater than the cutoff value plus the greyzone.
If, for example, POS is selected as shown in the above screen, calls
will be assigned according to the following equations (SMP
represents the sample wells):

EQUIV: SMP <= (CUTOFF+(CUTOFF*GREYZONE)) and
SMP >= (CUTOFF-(CUTOFF*GREYZONE))
POS: SMP > (CUTOFF+(CUTOFF*GREYZONE))
NEG: SMP < (CUTOFF-(CUTOFF*GREYZONE))
Examples
1. The cutoff between negative and positive calls should be calculated as the
average of the negative controls plus the OD value of 0.500. Samples
greater than the cutoff should be labeled as positive. No greyzone is
required.
For this example, NC;x (the mean of the NC wells) equals 1.000 OD
The cutoff formula is NC;x+0.5
The greyzone is 00%
POS is selected for SAMP>CUTOFF+00%
Calls are assigned to sample wells as follows:
EQUIV if the sample equals 1.500
POS if the sample is greater than 1.500
NEG if the sample is less than 1.500

2. For a quantitative assay, samples with OD values greater than the STD2
mean plus a 10% greyzone should be labeled as positive; samples with OD
values less than the STD2 mean minus the 10% greyzone should be labeled
as negative. All other samples should be considered equivocal.
For this example, STD2;x (the mean of the STD2 wells) equals 2.000 OD
The cutoff formula is simply STD2;x
The greyzone is 10%
POS is selected for SAMP>CUTOFF+10%
Calls are assigned to sample wells as follows:
EQUIV if the sample is greater than or equal to 1.800 and
less than or equal to 2.200
POS if the sample is greater than 2.200
NEG if the sample is less than 1.800


Defining CURVE
Note: This feature is not available in the EL800 version (see
Appendix D to compare the EL800 with the ELx800).
To define curve-fitting parameters for an assay:
1. Start at the Main Menu and select DEFINE.
2. Select the assay and then press ENTER. The DEFINE option screen will
appear:

D E F I N E :
3. Select CURVE. The definable curve-fitting parameters include:
Curve-Fit Type
Editing of Outliers
Axis Identification
Extrapolation of Unknowns
Note: These screens are displayed on the ELx800 in the order in which
they appear in the assay. If a closed variable (i.e., an element of the
assay definition that you cannot access or modify) is being used in the
assay, the entry screen is omitted.
Curve-Fit Type
The ELx800 supports seven different curve-fitting methods: linear, quadratic,
cubic, 4-P, 2-P, cubic-spline, and point to point.
C U R V E - F I T T Y P E : L I N E A R
N O N E L I N E A R Q U A D * M O R E

C U R V E - F I T T Y P E : C - S P L I N E
C U B I C 4 - P 2 - P * M O R E

C U R V E - F I T T Y P E : C - S P L I N E
C - S P L I N E P T - P T * M O R E
Linear curve fit: A simple best-fit straight line is plotted using the
values of the standards.
Quadratic or Quad curve fit: A curve fit that uses the quadratic
equation ax
2
+bx +c = y to plot the standards values. Utilizing this
curve, any data point for a standard that deviates from the ideal value
will not affect the entire curve.
Cubic curve fit: A curve fit that uses the equation
ax
3
+ bx
2
+ cx + d = y to plot the standards values. This type of curve
fit is affected even less than the quadratic fit when any particular
standard has a poor value.
2-P (LOGIT/LOG): A curve fitted to the standard values, which is
characterized by a skewed sigmoidal (S-shaped) plot that eventually
becomes asymptotic to the upper and lower standard values. The
logistic equation is algebraically transformed to a simpler form in which
experimentally determined values are used for the responses at
concentrations of zero and infinity. Note: Uses linear axis type only.
Cubic Spline (C-Spline) curve fit: A piecewise polynomial
approximation consisting of joining a set of data points by a series of
straight lines, which is then smoothed by using a cubic fit.
4-Parameter Logistic or 4-P: A curve fitted to the standard values,
which is characterized by a skewed sigmoidal (S-shaped) plot that
becomes asymptotic to the upper and lower standard values. The 4
parameters are: Left asymptote, Right asymptote, Slope and Value at
the Inflection point. This fit is most recommended for immunoassay
data, and is more exact than Logit/Log. Note: Uses linear axis type
only.
Point to Point or PT to PT: A plot that connects each standard point
with a line, with no averaging of the values to smooth the curve at
each standard.
Press SOFT KEYS 1, 2, 3, or 4 to select the curve-fit type that is
displayed above the soft key. Select *MORE to display additional
options.
Press ENTER to save the selection and advance to the next screen.

Edit Standard Outliers
This screen allows you to enable or suppress the editing of standard outliers.
After the standard curve has been calculated, one or more standards can be
excluded from the recalculation of the curve. Any previously defined edit
method is displayed.

E D I T S T D O U T L I E R S : M A N U A L
N O N E M A N U A L

Select NONE to suppress the EDIT STANDARD OUTLIERS capability for
this assay.
Choose MANUAL to enable the capability.
If AVERAGE STANDARDS is set to NO, the individual standard
replicates are available for editing. If set to YES, the standard
groups are available for editing.
After the assay is run and reports are generated, press REPORT
from the Main Menu. Press RESULT, select the assay, and then press
ENTER. The EDIT STD OUTLIERS? YES/NO prompt will appear.
See Editing Standard Outliers on page 94 for further
instructions.

X/Y Axis Type
Note: LIN/LIN axes are recommended when using the Cubic Spline fit.
After the curve-fit type is selected, select the X/Y Axis Type.
X / Y A X I S T Y P E : L I N
L I N L I N / L O G L O G L O G / L I N

Select the method by which the X- and Y-axes will be scaled.
This option is not available for the 2-P and 4-P curve-fit types. The X/Y
scaling for these curves is always LIN/LIN.
Extrapolation of Unknowns
This screen allows you to choose whether to extrapolate the curve to evaluate
samples outside of the absorbance range defined by the standards.
E X T R A P O L A T E U N K N O W N S ? Y E S
Y E S N O
Select YES to enable extrapolation; otherwise, select NO.
On the printed reports, extrapolated concentrations (RSLT values) are
surrounded by < > (e.g., <44.425>).

If extrapolation is chosen for the Point-to-Point curve
fit, unknown concentrations will be extrapolated
linearly from the nearest segment of the curve. If the
plot includes both increasing and decreasing segments,
the curve printout will be labeled Ambiguous. The
resulting values, which actually are extrapolated, may
not be indicated as such. All calculated results for an
Ambiguous curve should be considered unreliable.

Panel Assays
A Panel assay is a collection of up to 8 assays to be run on one plate.
The most common reason to use a Panel assay is for confirmatory tests
based on a screening test in clinical applications.
Only one panel can be defined on the reader at any time.
The assays specified within the Panel must be predefined in any of the
assay positions 1-55.
The assays specified within the Panel must all use the Endpoint read
method.
The assays specified within the Panel must all read at the same
wavelength(s).
Any curve-fit type, formulas, or standard concentrations previously
defined for each assay will be used when the assay is selected for a
Panel.
Panel assays cannot reuse standard curves.
The type and number of controls, blanks, standards, and replicates in
the assays chosen for the Panel will be copied into the Panel
definition. Map or assay parameters must first be changed in the
predefined assay before they can change in the Panel.
Tip: For use with mapping the Panel, consider printing a Map Report
for each assay that will be included in the Panel.
To create a panel assay, start at the Main Menu, select DEFINE, and then
choose assay number 99. Enter the panel assay name.

N A M E : P A N E L
- / : S P A C E
The default name is PANEL.
Use the alpha and numeric keys to update the assay name, if desired.
Press ENTER to continue. The NUMBER OF ASSAYS screen will appear.


N U M B E R O F A S S A Y S : 2

Specify the number of assays to include in the panel (1 to 8).
Press ENTER to continue. The MAPPING DIRECTION selection screen
will appear.
M A P P I N G D I R E C T I O N : D O W N
D O W N A C R O S S
This option ensures that all assays will be mapped in the same
direction.
Select DOWN or ACROSS.

The original mapping directions for the predefined
assays are overridden by the Panels mapping
directions. If the assay includes replicates, they will
follow the Panel mapping direction.
After selecting the mapping direction of the assays, choose which assays to
include in the panel.

N A M E : H B S - A G 1
Press Options to cycle through the assay numbers and names, or use
the numeric keys to enter an assay number. Press ENTER to make a
selection.
After an assay is selected, its starting location must be defined.


S T A R T M A P P I N G
A T W E L L L O C A T I O N : A 0 1
Use the alpha and numeric keys to choose the well location to begin
the assay. Wells A01 through H01 are valid for ACROSS mapping; A01
through H12 are valid for DOWN.
Repeat this process for each assay within the panel. Remain aware of
the total number of controls, standards, and blanks that were originally
mapped in each assay while mapping for the panel assay.
For example, to include Assays 1, 8, and 22 in the Panel assay (DOWN
mapping is selected for the Panel):
Assay 1 has a total of 12 wells defined for controls, blanks, and
standards. In the Panel, the mapping for Assay 1 begins in well A01.
The user wants to run 6 samples in Assay 1. Assay 1 now fills wells
A01 through B03.
The mapping for Assay 8 can begin in well B04, or any well other
than A01 to B03. The reader will chirp if you try to map into a
well that is already assigned for use with the Panel.
The mapping for Assay 22 may begin at the next available well
location after Assay 8 mapping is complete.
After all the assays have been entered into the Panel, consider
printing the Panels Map Report to verify the map before reading
the plate. Choose REPORT (from the Main Menu), MAP, ASSAY 99.
The reader will print the map of each assay configured in the Panel.
The Panel Assay results are sorted by sample (unless a custom
assay has been programmed by Bio-Tek).
Note: The interpretation of Results reports for each assay in the Panel
will print first, and then the Sample results will print.


Reading a Microplate
Use the READ option, found at the Main Menu, to select an assay to run, define any
required run-time options, and then begin a plate read.
Note: Before reading a plate, ensure that the reporting options are set
correctly under UTIL OUTPUT.
To read a plate:
1. Start at the Main Menu and select READ.
The SELECT ASSAY NUMBER screen will appear.
2. Select an assay, and then press ENTER. See Selecting an Assay to Run on
the next page for detailed instructions.
3. If required, enter the number of Samples, Plate ID, and/or Sample ID.
Note: The options to present these screens are configurable by
selecting UTIL READ. See Selecting Read Options on page 101 for
more information.
S A M P L E S : 2 0

P L A T E I D : 1 2 3 4 A
- / : S P A C E

E N T E R
S A M P L E I D : 0 0 0 1
4. Place the plate in the carrier, and then press the READ key to continue.
Reading a Microplate | 89

Selecting an Assay to Run
To select an assay to run, start at the Main Menu and select READ. The SELECT
ASSAY NUMBER screen will appear:
Use the numeric keys to enter the number of any predefined assay
stored in the readers memory, or the Options key to advance one
assay at a time.
Press ENTER to select the assay and continue.
Run-Time Prompts
After the assay is selected, one or more informational prompts may be
presented, depending on preferences selected in UTIL READ, whether or not
the assay specifies manual mapping, or if the assay was created or downloaded
from Bio-Teks Extensions Define Reader Protocol software.
Prompts enabled via UTIL READ can include ENTER NUMBER OF
SAMPLES, PLATE ID, and ENTER SAMPLE ID.
If the assay specifies manual mapping, prompts for information will
include the locations for the sample wells.
If running a custom assay, such as one that was created using
Extensions software, typical prompts might include:
The number of samples
Standard concentrations
Assay ID
Fill pattern
Blank method
First well location
Replicate count for each well type
Wavelength mode
Report preferences, etc.

Enter Number of Samples
If the ENTER NUMBER OF SAMPLES prompt is presented, indicate the number
of sample groups on the plate. The number of sample replicates is typically
predefined in the assay, but if this is a custom assay, you may also be
prompted to enter the replicate count.

S A M P L E S : 2 0

Use the numeric keys to enter the number of sample groups.
The valid entry range is from 01 to the maximum number of wells
remaining on the plate after any blank, control, or standard wells are
mapped.
If you enter a value greater than the number of empty wells remaining
on the plate, the reader will chirp and automatically change the value
to the maximum permissible number of samples.
Enter Plate ID
If the PLATE ID prompt is presented, enter a unique plate identifier to be
stored in memory with the assay name and absorbance data.

Use caution when creating multiple Plate IDs. The reader
does not warn you that you about to exceed the maximum of
8 plate IDs stored in memory. If a ninth Plate ID is added, it
will overwrite the first Plate ID stored in memory.

Reading a Microplate | 91

P L A T E I D : 1 2 3 A
- / : S P A C E
4

Use up to 10 alphanumeric characters. See page 40 for instructions on
using the keypad.
Press ENTER to advance to the ENTER SAMPLE ID screen.
Enter Sample ID
If the ENTER SAMPLE ID prompt is presented, enter a starting sample
identification number.
E N T E R
S A M P L E I D : 0 0 0 1
The valid entry range is from 0001 to 9999.
The software will automatically increment each subsequent sample
identification number by 1.
The sample IDs will be assigned according to the plate map defined in
the assay.
Prompts for Well Location
If the assay specifies manual plate mapping and if PROMPT FOR SAMPLE
COUNT is set to YES under UTIL READ, sample well locations can be
defined at run-time.

S A M P L E # 1 L O C A T I O N
R E P # 1 : G 0 1

The sample well locations originally defined in the assay will be
presented. If desired, use the keypad to enter new well locations for
each sample replicate.
Press ENTER again to advance to the next replicate.

Beginning the Plate Read
When the following screen appears on the display, the reader is ready to read a
plate:

P L A C E P L A T E I N C A R R I E R
A N D P R E S S < R E A D > K E Y

Before reading the plate, ensure that the printer is connected, turned on,
and full of paper.
Place the plate in the carrier and press the READ key to initiate the plate
read.
After the read is complete, data reduction will be performed
(Calculating Results), and then the reports will print (Generating
Reports).
To halt the read in progress, press the STOP key.

Printing Reports | 93

Printing Reports
Reports are automatically generated after a plate has been read (see Specifying Data
Output and Reporting Options on page 99 for information on selecting reports).
Results reports also can be regenerated manually by using the REPORT option from the
Main Menu. In addition, Map, Assay, and Assay List reports can be printed.
Note: See Appendix C for sample reports.

R E A D Y 0 1 : 2 2 P M 0 1 / 2 3 / 0 4

P R I N T R E P O R T :
R E S U L T M A P A S S A Y L I S T
Select RESULT to print an exact copy of results from the plate reading (the 8
most recent sets of plate data are stored in memory).
The form in which the results are presented is determined by the
report settings (Matrix, Column, Curve Fit) specified under
UTIL OUTPUT.
Select MAP to print a matrix showing the locations of the Blanks, Standards,
Controls, and Samples for a particular assay.
Select ASSAY to print a plate map and a listing of all of the assays settings,
such as wavelengths, numbers of well types, formulas, and curve-fit
parameters.
Select LIST to print a list of all assays (name and number) currently
programmed in the ELx800.

Results Report
The reader stores the data for the 8 most recent plate reads. Results reports can
be generated for these plates if, for example, the data that automatically
printed after the read needs to be printed in a different format, or if the
standard curve contains outliers that require editing.
R E P O R T : H B S - A G
I D : 0 0 1 0 1 / 2 3 / 0 4
The most recently read plate is presented first, showing the assay name,
the plate ID (if one was entered), and the date the plate was read.
Press Options to see the next plate in memory.
Press ENTER to select a plate and continue.
If a standard curve was generated and EDIT STANDARD OUTLIERS
was set to manual in the assay definition, the EDIT STD OUTLIERS?
prompt is presented; otherwise, the PRINT RESULTS? prompt is
presented.
Editing Standard Outliers
If a standard curve was generated and if EDIT STANDARD OUTLIERS was set to
MANUAL in the assay definition, the option to edit outliers is presented.

E D I T S T D O U T L I E R S :
Y E S N O
Select NO to include all standards in the curve-fit calculations.
Select YES to indicate that one or more standard replicates or groups
should be temporarily excluded from curve-fit calculations.
If AVERAGE STANDARDS was set to NO in the assay definition, one or
more standard replicates can be chosen for exclusion.

Printing Reports | 95

E D I T S T D 1 R E P 1 ? Y E S
Y E S N O
Select YES to exclude the replicate from curve-fit calculations.
Select NO to retain the replicate.
Press ENTER to advance to the next replicate.
If AVERAGE STANDARDS was set to YES in the assay definition, one
or more standard groups can be chosen for exclusion.
E D I T S T D 1 ; X ? Y E S
Y E S N O
Select YES to exclude the group from curve-fit calculations.
Select NO to retain the group.
Press ENTER to advance to the next group.

Each curve-fit type requires a minimum number of
standards for curve generation: 4 for 2-P, 4-P, cubic, and
cubic-spline; 3 for quadratic; and 2 for linear and point-to-
point. Exercise caution when editing outliers. If the assay is
left with insufficient standards, the curve fit will fail.

Printing Results
After the assay is selected and standard outliers are edited (if necessary), the
results report can be printed.
P R I N T R E S U L T S ?
Y E S N O
Ensure that the printer is connected, turned on, and filled with paper.
Press YES to print reports, or NO to return to the Main Menu.
Map Report
The Map Report contains a matrix in Row x Column format, showing the
location of every well identifier defined in the plate map.
N A M E : H B S - A G
Press Options to cycle through the list of available assays, or enter the
number of the desired assay.
Press ENTER to print the report.
Assay Report
The Assay Report lists the assay definition parameters and their current
settings.
N A M E : H B S - A G
Press Options to cycle through the list of available assays, or enter the
number of the desired assay.
Press ENTER to print the report.
List Report
The List Report lists the all of the assays (name and number), currently
programmed on the reader.
Select REPORT from the Main Menu, and then select LIST to print the
report.
Using the Utility Options | 97

Using the Utility Options
The UTILITY option allows you to set up the date and time, specify your data output and
report options, and select your read options.
Setting the Date and Time
To set the current Date and Time, and/or change their formats:
1. From the Main Menu, select UTIL SETUP. The EDIT SETUP
INFORMATION menu will appear:
2. Select DATE. The DATE entry screen will appear:
D A T E : 0 1 / 2 3 / 0 4 M D Y
M M D D Y Y D D M M Y Y
Enter the new date using the numeric keys on the keypad. The
cursor is positioned under the first editable field and advances
automatically.
To change the date format, press the soft key beneath MMDDYY or
DDMMYY. The display automatically updates to reflect the new format.
Press ENTER to return to the EDIT SETUP INFORMATION menu.
3. To change the current time and/or the time format, select TIME from the
EDIT SETUP INFORMATION menu. The TIME entry screen will appear:
T I M E : 1 2 : 4 7 P M 1 2 H O U R
1 2 H O U R 2 4 H O U R A M / P M
Enter the time using the numeric keys on the keypad. The cursor is
positioned under the first editable field and advances automatically.
To change the time format, select 12HOUR or 24HOUR, then AM or PM.
The display automatically updates to reflect the new format.
Press ENTER to return to the SELECT UTILITY OPTION menu.

Viewing/Editing the Filter Table
After installing new filters, ensure that the ELx800s filter table (the readers
software reference for filter locations) matches the physical location of the filters in
the filter wheel.
To edit the filter table:
1. From the Main Menu, select UTIL SETUP. The EDIT SETUP
INFORMATION menu will appear:
2. Select FILTER to display the wavelength for Filter #1.

E N T E R
F I L T E R # 1 W A V E L E N G T H : 4 0 5
3. Enter the correct wavelength for each of the five positions, using the
numeric keys. The range is from 400 to 750 nm (340 to 750 nm for the
ELx800NB).
4. Continue to scroll through the five available filter positions, pressing
ENTER between each.
5. When all five wavelengths have been defined, or skipped, the software will
automatically return to the EDIT SETUP INFORMATION menu.

Specifying Data Output and Reporting Options
Plate data can be sent to an attached printer or external computer.
The onboard software provides several different options for report format
and content.
Data sent to an external computer has no data reduction applied to it, with
the exception of dual-wavelength subtraction (if defined in the assay). Any
reporting options selected through the onboard software have no effect on
serial output.
1. To specify data output and reporting options, start at the Main Menu and
select UTIL OUTPUT. The REPORT OUTPUT screen will appear.

R E P O R T O U T P U T : B O T H
P R I N T C O M P U T E R B O T H

2. The current output option is displayed on the top line. Select PRINT to send
reports directly to a printer, COMPUTER to send data out through the serial
port, or BOTH.
Note: These options have no effect on data output if the instrument
is being controlled by software (such as KCjunior or KC4) running on a
host PC.
3. Press ENTER to continue. The SELECT PRINTER screen will appear.
S E L E C T P R I N T E R E P S O N
E P S O N H P
The ELx800 supports printers using either HP's PCL3 language, such as
the HP DeskJet series, or Epson's LQ language. For the latest list of
compatible printers, consult the Bio-Tek Web site (www.biotek.com),
or call Bio-Tek Instruments' Technical Assistance Center (refer to
Chapter 1 for contact information).
4. Select EPSON or HP as appropriate.

5. Press ENTER to continue. The REPORT TYPE screen will appear.
R E P O R T : T Y P E C O L U M N
C O L U M N M A T R I X B O T H

6. The currently selected report type is displayed in the top line. Select
COLUMN to print information in a list (columnar) format, MATRIX to print in
a format that resembles the plate type (ex. 8 x 12 matrix), or BOTH.
See Appendix C for examples of Reports.
7. Press ENTER to continue. The SAMPLES IN COLUMN REPORT screen will
appear:
S A M P L E S O N C O L R P T ? N O
Y E S N O

8. Select YES to print results for all wells on the plate, including samples.
9. Select NO to limit the results information to blanks, controls, and standards.
10. Press ENTER to continue. The PRINT CURVE-FIT screen will appear.

P R I N T C U R V E - F I T ? N O
Y E S N O
11. Select YES to print the standard curve (only applies to quantitative assays).
12. Press ENTER to return to the SELECT UTILITY OPTION screen.


Selecting Read Options
At plate-read time, the software can be configured to present the user with a series
of prompts, to enter information such as Plate ID, Sample ID, or Sample Count.
1. To specify various read-time options, start at the Main Menu and select
UTIL READ.
2. The PROMPT FOR PLATE ID screen will appear. Press ENTER to cycle
through the prompt screens.

P R O M P T F O R P L A T E I D ? Y E S
Y E S N O

P R O M O R P T F S A M P L E I D ? Y E S
Y E S N O

P R O M P T S A M P L E C O U N T ? Y E S
Y E S N O

R E A D I N R A P I D M O D E ? Y E S
Y E S N O
If selected, at read-time:
PLATE ID prompts for microplate identification.
SAMPLE ID prompts for identification for each sample group.
SAMPLE COUNT prompts for the number of samples on the plate.
RAPID MODE prompts for the plate to be read in Rapid Mode or
Normal Mode.
RAPID MODE reads a 96-well plate in approximately 30 seconds
(single-wavelength assay). If NO is selected, the plate will be read in
NORMAL MODE (approximately 50 seconds). Refer to Chapter 1 for
specifications.
Pressing ENTER after each selection advances the display.
When selections are completed, the display returns to the SELECT
UTILITY OPTION menu.

Chapter 4
Performance
Verification and
IQ/OQ/PQ Procedures

This chapter discusses the tasks and procedures necessary for
verifying and qualifying instrument performance on an ongoing
basis. A convenient Recommended Test Schedule arranges
tasks into Installation, Operation, and Performance
Qualification categories.

Recommendations for Achieving Optimum Performance................ 104
Recommended Test Schedule ................................................... 105
Qualification Procedures........................................................... 106
System Test ...................................................................... 107
Checksum Test .................................................................. 109
Absorbance Plate Test ......................................................... 110
Entering the Absorbance Test Plate Specifications ................... 113
Test Failures...................................................................... 115
Liquid Testing......................................................................... 116
Stock Solution Formulation .................................................. 117
Liquid Test 1...................................................................... 119
Liquid Test 2...................................................................... 121
Liquid Test 3...................................................................... 125

104 | Chapter 4: Performance Verification and IQ/OQ/PQ Procedures

Recommendations for Achieving Optimum
Performance
Microplates should be perfectly clean and free of 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 when not reading the plate. Filter
solutions to remove particulates that could cause erroneous readings.
Although the ELx800 supports standard flat, U-bottom, and V-bottom
microplates, optimum performance is achieved with optically clear, flat-
bottomed wells.
Nonuniformity 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.
Inaccuracy in pipetting has a large effect on measurements, especially if smaller
volumes of liquid are used. For best results, use at least 100 l per well in a
96-well plate and 25 l in a 384-well plate.
Dispensing 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; however, for best results, remove the air
bubbles by degassing the plate in a vacuum chamber before reading.
The inclination of the meniscus can reduce reading accuracy in some solutions,
especially with small volumes. Agitate the microplate before reading to help
bring this problem within acceptable limits. Use Tween 20, if possible (or
some other wetting agent) to normalize the meniscus. Some solutions develop
menisci over a period of several minutes. This effect varies with the brand of
microplate and the solution composition. As the center of the meniscus drops
and shortens the light path, the density readings change. The meniscus shape
will stabilize over time.
Recommended Test Schedule | 105
Recommended Test Schedule
The schedule shown in Table 1 defines the factory-recommended intervals for
performance testing for a microplate reader used two to five days a week.
Note: The risk factors associated with your tests may require
that the Performance and Operational Qualification procedures
be performed more or less frequently than shown below.

Table 1
Recommended Test Schedule

Installation
Qualification
Performance
Qualification:
Monthly
Performance
Qualification:
Semiannually
Operational
Qualification:
Initially and
Annually
System Self-Test, p. 107
Checksum Test, p. 109
Absorbance Plate Test,
p. 110

Liquid Test 1, p. 119
Liquid Test 2, p.121 * *
Liquid Test 3, p. 125
Optional for 340 nm

*Run Liquid Test 2 ONLY if you do not have an Absorbance Test Plate.
If you run Liquid Test 2, you do NOT have to also run Liquid Test 1.

Qualification Procedures
You may use the tests outlined in this section to confirm initial and ongoing
performance of the ELx800. Set up the ELx800 according to the instructions in
Chapter 3, Installation. Confirm that the instrument powers up and
communicates with peripherals for the Installation Qualification. After Installation
Qualification, conduct the Operational Qualification Tests.
Note: An Installation-Operational-Performance Qualification
(IQ-OQ-PQ) package (PN 7330538) for the ELx800 is available
for purchase. Contact your local dealer for more information.
Your ELx800

reader was fully tested at Bio-Tek before shipment and should
operate properly upon initial setup. If you suspect that problems may have
occurred during shipment, if you reshipped the instrument, or if regulatory
requirements dictate that Performance Qualification Testing is necessary, you
should perform the following tests. After the initial confirmation of operation, you
should perform the Absorbance Plate Test monthly and Liquid Testing
semiannually.
The System Test (described on the next page) confirms that the light
levels at all installed filter wavelengths and electronic noise meet factory
acceptance criteria.
The Checksum Test (page 109) compares the onboard software with
internally recorded checksum values to ensure that no corruption has
occurred.
The Absorbance Plate Test (page 110) uses Bio-Teks Absorbance Test
Plate to confirm the mechanical alignment, optical accuracy/linearity, and
repeatability of the instrument.
Liquid Testing (page 116) uses liquid solutions in a microplate to confirm
mechanical alignment, optical accuracy/linearity, and repeatability of the
instrument.

Set the ELx800 to Normal Read Mode when running
all verification procedures (Chapter 3).

Qualification Procedures | 107
System Test

IMPORTANT! Do not turn on the instrument until
the carrier shipping block has been removed. Refer to
Chapter 2.
The System Test is performed automatically whenever the instrument is
turned on. It can also be performed manually through the ELx800 Main
Menu.
The reader will chirp repeatedly if the power-on System Test results do
not meet the internally coded Failure Mode Effects Analysis (FMEA)
criteria established by Bio-Tek. A system test should then be initiated to try
to retrieve an error code from the reader.
To run the System Test from the instrument keypad:
1. If running a System Test, attach a printer to the instrument. See
Connecting a Printer to the ELx800 in Chapter 2 for
instructions.
2. From the Main Menu, select UTIL. The SELECT UTILITY OPTION
screen will appear:
3. From the SELECT UTILITY OPTION screen, select TESTS. The
SELECT TEST screen will appear:
S E L E C T T E S T
S Y S T E M C H K S U M C A L P L A T E
4. Select SYSTEM to run the System Test.
To run the System Test using KCjunior, open the Utilities menu
and select Diagnostics| Reader System Test.
To run the System Test using KC4, open the System menu and
select Diagnostics| Run Optics Test.
The System Test report lists results in a Pass/Fail format (Figures
16 and 17) and can be viewed, saved, and printed. Print the report
to document periodic testing or troubleshoot.
If the reader fails the System Test, it will not perform a read
until the error condition is cleared. See Chapter 6,
Troubleshooting and Error Codes, for a list of possible error
codes that may be displayed if the System Test indicates a
failure.

Note: This report may vary slightly if KC4 or KCjunior are
used.
Operator ID:______________________________________________________________

Notes:____________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

11:00 AM 06/02/03 SYSTEM SELF TEST

Lambda: 200 Gain: 3.28 Resets: 1
Channel: Ref 1
Air: 20506 35689
Dark: 9911 10002
Delta: 10595 25687

Channel: Ref 1
Air: 20072 35592
Dark: 9914 9960
Delta: 10158 25632

Channel: Ref 1
Air: 20280 35642
Dark: 9919 9949
Delta: 10361 25693

Channel: Ref 1
Air: 20248 35530
Dark: 9914 9985
Delta: 10334 25545

Channel: Ref 1
Air: 20230 35302
Dark: 9907 10018
Delta: 10323 25284

Channel: Ref 1
Air: 19977 34186
Dark: 9900 10050
Delta: 10077 24136

Channel: Ref 1
Noise Max: 9878 9980
Noise Min: 9877 9978
Delta: 1 2
Figure 16: Sample output for the System Test (sheet 1 of 2)


AUTOCAL ANALYSIS

Upper Left Corner: x= 9090 y= 10760
Lower Left Corner: x= 9082 y= 16280
Lower Right Corner: x= 412 y= 16282
Upper Right Corner: x= 416 y= 10762
Delta 1: 9090 - 9082= +8
Delta 2: 416 - 412= +4
Delta 3: 10762 -10760= +2
Delta 4: 16282 -16280= +2

SYSTEM TEST PASS

Figure 17: Sample output for the System Test -- Autocal Analysis (sheet 2 of 2)

Checksum Test
This test also runs automatically when the reader is turned on. The test
compares the software to the internally recorded checksum values to
ensure that the programming has not been corrupted. It verifies the
checksum, and displays the part numbers and versions of software
currently loaded onto your reader. If there are any errors during the power-
on checksum test, they will be displayed.
1. Press UTIL at the Main Menu. At the SELECT UTILITY OPTION
screen, press TESTS and then CHKSUM at the SELECT TEST screen
to run the Checksum Test. The information displayed will
resemble the following:

7 3 3 0 2 0 2 V E R S I O N 3 . 0 7
C O D E C H E C K S U M : ( 1 7 A 5 )
The initial checksum test display will show the onboard (base
code) software part number, version number, and checksum.
After a few moments, a second screen will display:

7 3 3 0 2 9 1 - F W V 1 . 0 0 . 0

The second checksum test display will show the assay
configuration software part number and version number. After
a few moments, the Main Menu will reappear.


Absorbance Plate Test
Note: Before running the Absorbance Plate test, ensure that
the Calibration Plate values are entered. See Entering the
Absorbance Plate Specifications in this chapter for more
information.
The Absorbance Test Plate or Test Plate can be used to conduct several
useful tests in a short time period: Mechanical Alignment, Accuracy and
Linearity, and Repeatability. The data and results for these tests can be
reviewed on the Absorbance Plate Test report. To run an Absorbance Plate
Test, you will need a Bio-Tek Absorbance Test Plate (PN 7260522) with its
accompanying data sheet.
Mechanical Alignment: The Test Plate has precisely machined
holes to confirm the mechanical alignment of different microplate
readers. The amount of light that shines through these holes
indicates whether the reader is properly aligned. A reading of more
than 0.015 OD for any of the designated alignment wells indicates
that the light is being clipped and the ELx800 may be out of
alignment. If the reader fails the alignment test, review the
following possible problems and solutions:
Ensure that the Test Plate is correctly seated in the microplate
carrier, with A1 in the upper left corner. Check the four
alignment holes to ensure that they are clear of debris.
Check the microplate carrier to ensure that it is clear of debris.
If these remedies are ineffective, call your Bio-Tek representative or
Bio-Tek Technical Support.
Accuracy and Linearity: The Test Plate contains neutral density
glass filters that have assigned OD values at several wavelengths.
Since there are several filters with differing OD values, the accuracy
across a range of ODs can be established. Once it is shown that the
device is accurate at these OD values then, by definition, it is linear.
Note that there may not be a Pass/Fail indication for filter values
that are beyond the specified accuracy range of the instrument.
If the reader fails the test, review the following possible problems
and solutions:
Check the filters on the test plate to ensure they are clean. If
necessary, clean them with lens paper.

IMPORTANT! Do not remove the filters from the
test plate, and do not use alcohol or other cleaning
agents.
Ensure that the filter calibration values entered are the same as
those on the Test Plate data sheet.
Ensure that the Test Plate is within its calibration certification
period.
If these remedies are ineffective, or if the Test Plate requires
recalibration, call your Bio-Tek representative or Bio-Tek Technical
Support.
Repeatability: This test ensures that the instrument meets its
repeatability specification by reading each Test Plate neutral density
filter twice with the filter in the same location. Note that there may
not be a Pass/Fail indication for filter values that are beyond the
specified accuracy (and, thus, repeatability) range of the device.
If the reader fails the repeatability test, review the following
possible problems and solutions:
Check the filters on the test plate to ensure that there is no debris
that may have shifted between readings and caused changes.
Check the microplate carrier to ensure that it is clear of debris.
If these remedies are ineffective, call your Bio-Tek representative
or Bio-Tek Technical Support.

Requirements
To run the Absorbance Plate Test, you need Bio-Tek's Absorbance 7-Filter
Test Plate (Part Number 7260522), with its accompanying Data Sheet,
shown in Figure 18. Figure 19 shows a sample Test Plate Analysis
Report.

This test plate can be used for testing the reproducibility, linearity, and
alignment of your Bio-Tek autoreader. The following calibration data has
been recorded by a N.I.S.T. traceable spectrophotometer.
WAVELENGTH (nm)
Well 405nm 450nm 490nm 550nm 620nm 630nm 690nm 750nm
C1 0.147 0.140 0.135 0.130 0.136 0.136 0.127 0.134
E2 0.618 0.575 0.574 0.568 0.573 0.568 0.485 0.434
G3 1.133 1.052 1.051 1.040 1.050 1.040 0.881 0.783
H6 1.701 1.578 1.577 1.560 1.575 1.560 1.323 1.179
F5 2.279 2.024 1.976 1.956 1.893 1.865 1.537 1.272
D4 2.945 2.604 2.545 2.513 2.437 2.400 1.972 1.632
Set # 2453 Serial # 161259

Figure 18: Sample Absorbance Test Plate data sheet

Note: The Test Plate Analysis report may vary slightly if KC4
or KCjunior are used.
Absorbance Test Plate Analysis
Wavelength: 405

Alignment Results
B2= 0.000 PASS B12= 0.000 PASS G1= 0.000 PASS G11= 0.000
PASS

Accuracy Results
C01 D04 E02 F05 G03 H06
STANDARD 0.147 2.945 0.618 2.279 1.133 1.701
DATA 0.139 2.914 0.613 2.265 1.128 1.694
RESULT PASS PASS PASS PASS PASS PASS

Repeatability Results
C01 D04 E02 F05 G03 H06
READ1 0.139 2.914 0.613 2.265 1.128 1.694
READ2 0.141 2.913 0.616 2.265 1.128 1.694
RESULT PASS PASS PASS PASS PASS PASS
Figure 19: Sample Test Plate Analysis Report
S A M P L E
Entering the Absorbance Test Plate Specifications
Using the Data Sheet provided with the Absorbance Test Plate, enter the
calibration values.
To enter the values into the reader from the instrument keypad:
1. Start at the Main Menu and select UTIL SELECT UTILITY
OPTION SETUP. The EDIT SETUP INFORMATION menu will
appear:


2. Press *MORE to display the second EDIT SETUP menu. Select
CALPLATE to access the CALIBRATION FILTER menu.
3. Using the insert packaged with the Test Plate, select the filter
wavelength.

R S 2 3 2 C A L P L A T E * M O R E

C A L I B R A T I O N F I L T E R : 4 0 5
4 0 5 4 5 0 4 9 0 * M O R E
4. Press ENTER. The WELL LOCATION/CALIBRATION VALUE screen
appears:

W A V E L E N G T H : 4 0 5 W E L L : C 0 1
C A L I B R A T I O N V A L U E : 0 . 1 5 8
5. Enter the values listed on the Test Plate Data Sheet. After each entry,
press ENTER to advance to the next consecutive well location.
Repeat for the remaining filters.
6. When all values have been entered, press the Main Menu key.


To enter the calibration values into KCjunior:
1. First define the Absorbance Test Plate to be used for the test. To do
this, open the Utilities menu, and select Diagnostics|Universal
Plate Test.
2. Click New Data Sheet. Click the Help button for guidance.
To enter the calibration values into KC4:
1. First define the Absorbance Test Plate to be used for the test. To do
this, open the System menu and select Diagnostics|Define
Universal Test Plate| Add Plate. Click the Help button for
guidance.
Running the Absorbance Plate Test

IMPORTANT: Before running the Absorbance Plate
Test, ensure that the reader is not running in Rapid
Mode. To check this, select UTIL READ and then
cycle through the prompts until READ IN RAPID
MODE? is displayed. Choose NO for an accurate result.
To run the Absorbance Plate Test from the instrument keypad:
1 Start at the Main Menu and select UTIL TESTS
CALPLATE. The SELECT TEST menu will appear:

S E L E C T T E S T :
S Y S T E M C H K S U M C A L P L A T E

2 Select the appropriate wavelength at the CALIBRATION FILTER
screen, and press ENTER to save the value and continue.

C A L I B R A T I O N F I L T E R : 4 0 5
4 0 5 4 5 0 4 9 0 * M O R E

3 When prompted, insert the Test Plate into the plate carrier, and
press the READ key to begin the test.
The Calibration Plate Analysis Report (Figure 19) will be sent
to a printer when the test is run.
To run the Absorbance Plate Test in KC4:
1 Open the System menu and select Diagnostics|Run
Universal Plate Test.
2 Select the Universal Plate and then click Run Test.
To run the Absorbance Plate Test in KCjunior:
1 Open the Utilities menu and select Diagnostics|Universal
Plate Test.
2 Select the Universal Plate ID and then click Run Test.
Test Failures
If any of the test parameters report as "FAIL," confirm that the standard
values on the test plate data sheet match the values on the printout. If not,
correct and retest. If the test still fails, contact Bio-Tek's Technical
Assistance Center (refer to Chapter 1 for contact information). Please have
a copy of the test and the readers serial number available when you call.

Liquid Testing
Conducting Liquid Tests confirms the ELx800s ability to perform to
specification with liquid samples. Liquid testing differs from testing with the
Absorbance Test Plate in that liquid in the wells has a meniscus, whereas the
test plates neutral density glass filters do not. The optics characteristics may
differ in these two cases, thus alerting the operator to different types of
problems. The liquid tests will help to detect optical defects or contamination
that can contribute to errant readings.
Liquid Test 1 confirms repeatability and consistency of the reader
when a solution is used in the microplate. If these tests pass, then the
lens placement and system cleanliness are proven.
Liquid Test 2 can be used to test the linearity, repeatability, and
alignment of the reader if you do not have an Absorbance Test Plate.
Prepare the series of solutions of varying absorbances as described on
page 121.
Liquid Test 3 is an optional test, and can only be performed with the
UV model. It is offered for those sites that must have proof of
linearity at wavelengths lower than those attainable with the
Absorbance Test Plate. This test is optional since the ELx800 has good
front end linearity throughout the specified wavelength range (see
page 125).
Bio-Tek offers a dye solution (PN 7120779, 25 ml; or 7120782, 125 ml)
that may be used in the stock solution formulation for Liquid Tests 1
and 2, or, if you prefer, you may use the dye solution described in
Table 3 (page 121). The purpose of the formulation is to create a
solution that absorbs light at ~ 2.000 OD full strength when dispensed
at 200 l in a flat-bottom microplate well.
Alternatively, any solution that gives a stable color will suffice. (This
includes substrates incubated with an enzyme preparation and then
stopped with an acidic or basic solution.) Some enzyme/substrate
combinations that may be used as alternates to the described dye are
shown in Table 2.
Table 2
Typical Enzyme-Substrate Combinations and Stopping Solutions
Enzyme Substrate Stopping Solution
Alkaline
Phosphate
o-nitrophenyl phosphate 3N sodium hydroxide
beta-
Galactosidase
o-nitrophenyl -beta-D galactopyranoside 1M sodium carbonate
Peroxidase 2,2'-Azino di-ethylbenzothiazoline-sulfonic
acid (ABTS)
citrate-phosphate
buffer, pH 2.8
Peroxidase o-phenylenediamine 0.03N sulfuric acid
Liquid Testing | 117
Stock Solution Formulation
The stock solution for Liquid Tests No. 1 and No. 2 may be formulated
from the ingredients listed below (Solution A), or by diluting a dye solution
available from Bio-Tek (Solution B).
Solution A
Required Materials:
Deionized (DI) water
FD&C Yellow No. 5 dye powder (typically 90% pure)
Tween
20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate) or

Bio-Tek wetting agent, PN 7773002
Precision balance with readability of 0.001 g
Weigh boat
1-liter volumetric flask

Preparation of Stock Solution:
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 Bio-Teks wetting agent.
4 Make up to 1 liter with DI water, cap, and shake well.
This should create a solution with an absorbance of about 2.000
when using 200 l in a flat-bottom microwell. The OD value will
be proportional to the volume in the well and the amount of
FD&C No. 5 dye used. You can use a larger or smaller well
volume, or add more dye or water to adjust the solution. Note
that too small a well volume may result in increased pipetting-
related errors.

Solution B
Required Materials:
Bio-Tek QC Check Solution No. 1 (PN 7120779, 25 ml; or
7120782, 125 ml)
Deionized water
5-ml Class A volumetric pipette
100-ml volumetric flask
Preparation of Stock Solution:
1 Pipette a 5-ml aliquot of Bio-Tek QC Check Solution No. 1 into a
100-ml volumetric flask.
2 Make up to 100 ml with DI water; cap and shake well.
This should create a solution with an absorbance of about 2.000
when using 200 l in a flat-bottom microwell. The OD value
result will be proportional to the volume in the well and the
amount of QC Check Solution No. 1 used. You can use a larger
or smaller well volume, or add more Check Solution or water to
adjust the stock solution. Note that too small a well volume
may result in increased pipetting-related errors.

Liquid Test 1

A 96-well, flat-bottom microplate is required for this
test (Corning Costar
#3590 is recommended). Use a

new microplate; any fingerprints or scratches may
cause variations in readings.

IMPORTANT: Before running the liquid tests, ensure
that the reader is not running in Rapid Mode. To
check this, select UTIL READ and then cycle
through the prompts until READ IN RAPID MODE?
is displayed. Choose NO for an accurate result.

1. Using freshly prepared stock solution A or B (the concentrated
solution), prepare a 1:2 dilution using DI water (one part stock, one
part DI water; the resulting solution is a 1:2 dilution).
2. Pipette 200 l of the concentrated solution into Column 1 of the
plate.
3. Pipette 200 l of the diluted solution into Column 2 of the plate.
4. Read the microplate five times at 405 nm using the Normal Read
Mode (Chapter 3), single wavelength, no blanking.
5. Print the five sets of raw data or export it to an Excel spreadsheet
using KCjunior or KC4.
If you are exporting the data to your own Excel spreadsheet,
perform the calculations described below and keep the
spreadsheet for future tests.
Calculations:
6. Calculate the mean and standard deviation for each well location in
columns 1 and 2 for the five plates read. Only one data set needs to
be analyzed for each concentration. The well that shows the most
variation for each concentration is selected for data reduction.
7. For each mean below 2.000 OD, calculate the allowed deviation
using the repeatability specification for a 96-well format of
0.5% 0.005 OD.

8. The standard deviation for each set of readings should be less than
the allowed deviation.
For 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 0.5% (1.951 * 0.005) = 0.0098,
which, when added to the 0.005 (0.0098 + 0.005) = 0.0148 OD, which
is the allowable deviation. Since the standard deviation is less than
this value, the reader meets the test criteria.
Repeatability Specification:
For comparison in this test, the following repeatability specification
is applied, using the Normal Read Mode and a 96-well microplate.
0.5% 0.005 OD from 0.000 to 2.000 OD @ 405 nm

Liquid Test 2
The recommended method of testing the instrument performance is to use
the Absorbance Test Plate to confirm alignment, repeatability, and
accuracy, which will also confirm linearity.
If a Test Plate is not available, Liquid Test 2 can be used for these tests.
Required Materials:
New 96-well, flat-bottom microplates (Corning Costar #3590 is
recommended)
Ten test tubes, numbered consecutively, stored in a rack
Calibrated hand pipette (Class A volumetric pipette
recommended)
Stock solution A or B (these are the same solutions as for Liquid
Test 1)
Preparation of Dilutions:
1 Set up a rack containing 10 tubes, numbered consecutively.
2 If you have not already done so, prepare concentrated stock Test
Solution A or B.
Refer to Table 3 when executing steps 3 and 4.
Table 3
Test Tube Dilutions
Tube Number 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Volume of Concentrated
Solution (ml)
20 18 16 14 12 10 8 6 4 2
Volume of 0.05% Tween
Solution (ml)
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18
Absorbance expected if
concentrated solution is
2.0 at 200 l
2.0 1.8 1.6 1.4 1.2 1.0 0.8 0.6 0.4 0.2

3 Create a percentage dilution series, beginning with 100% of the
concentrated stock solution in tube 1, 90% of the concentrated
solution in tube 2, 80% in tube 3, and so on to 10% in tube 10.
4 Dilute using amounts of the remaining 0.05% solution of
deionized water and Tween 20, as shown in Table 3.

Plate Preparation:
5 Pipette 200 l of the concentrated solution from tube 1 into each
well of the first column, A1 to H1, of the microplate.
6 Pipette 200 l from each of the remaining tubes into the wells of
the corresponding column of the microplate (tube 2 into wells
A2 to H2, etc.).
Note: The choice of dilutions and the absorbance of the
original solution can be varied. Use Table 3 as a model for
calculating the expected absorbances of a series of dilutions,
given a different absorbance of the original solution.
Read Plate
1 Read the microplate prepared above five times using Normal
Read Mode dual wavelength at 450 nm with 630 nm as the
blank.
Note: Do not discard the plate; you will use it for the
Alignment Test.
2 Print the raw data or export it to an Excel spreadsheet using
KCjunior or KC4.
If you are exporting the data to an Excel spreadsheet, perform
the calculations described below and on the following page, and
keep the spreadsheet for future tests.
Linearity Test:
3 Calculate the mean absorbance for each well, and average the
means for each concentration.
4 Perform a regression analysis on the data to evaluate linearity.
For example, using Microsoft
Excel:
In a spreadsheet, create two columns labeled X and Y. Enter the
actual absorbance values in column X. Enter the expected
absorbance values in column Y.
Select Tools Data Analysis Regression. Identify
column X as the Input X Range and column Y as the Input Y
Range and then click OK to perform the analysis.
Note: If the Data Analysis command is not available on the
Tools menu, you may need to install the Analysis ToolPak in
Microsoft Excel. Consult Excels help system for assistance.
Expected Results:
Since it is somewhat difficult to achieve high pipetting accuracy
when conducting linear dilutions, an R-Square value greater
than or equal to 0.990 is considered adequate.
Repeatability Test
1 Calculate the mean and standard deviation for the five readings
taken above at each concentration. Only one data set needs to be
analyzed for each concentration. The well that shows the most
variation for each concentration is selected for data reduction.
2 For each mean below 2.000 OD, calculate the allowed deviation
using the repeatability specification for a 96-well format of
0.5% 0.005 OD from 0.000 to 2.000 OD @ 405 nm.
3 The standard deviation for each set of readings should be less
than the allowed deviation.
For 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 0.5% (1.951 * 0.005) = 0.0098, which,
when added to the 0.005 (0.0098 + 0.005) = 0.0148 OD, which is
the allowable deviation. Since the standard deviation is less than
this value, the reader meets the test criteria.
Repeatability Specification:
For comparison in this test, the following repeatability spec is
applied, using Normal mode, 96-well microplate:
0.5% 0.005 OD from 0.000 to 2.000 OD @405 nm


Alignment Test
1 Using the prepared plate, conduct a turnaround test by reading
the plate with the A1 well in the H12 position five times. This
test results in values for the four corner wells that can be used to
determine alignment.
2 Calculate the means of wells A1 and H1 in the normal plate
position (data is from Linearity Test) and in the turnaround
position (from Step 1 above). 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.
For example:
If the mean of well A1 in the normal position is 1.902, where the
specified accuracy is 1% 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 * 1% = 0.019 + 0.010 = 0.029, which is added and
subtracted from 1.902 for the range.)
3 If the four corner wells are within the accuracy range, the reader
is in alignment.
Accuracy Specifications:
For comparison in this test, the following accuracy specification
is applied, using Normal Mode and a 96-well microplate:
1.0% 0.010 OD from 0.000 to 2.000 OD @ 405 nm

Liquid Test 3 (for UV Models Only)
Liquid Test 3 is an optional test offered for sites that must have proof of
linearity at wavelengths lower than those attainable with the Absorbance
Test Plate. This test verifies operation of the ELx800 at 340 nm and is
optional because the reader has good front-end linearity throughout its
wavelength range.
Required Materials:
340 nm filter installed in the reader
New 96-well, flat-bottom microplates (Corning Costar
#3590 is
recommended)
Calibrated hand pipette(s)
Beakers and graduated cylinder
Precision balance with readability to 0.01 g
Buffer solution A or B
Solution A: 10x Concentrate Phosphate Buffered Saline (PBS)
Required Materials:
Deionized water
Ingredients shown in Table 4
-NADH powder (-Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide,
Reduced Form) Sigma
bulk catalog number N 8129, or

preweighed 10-mg vials, Sigma
number 340-110
Store the -NADH powder according to the guidelines on its
packaging.

1 Prepare the stock buffer solution using the ingredients in
Table 4:
Table 4
PBS 10X Concentrate Solution
KH
2
PO
4
anhydrous 0.2 grams
NaCl 8.0 grams
Na
2
HPO
4
anhydrous 1.15 grams
KCl 0.2 grams
Tween

20 0.5 ml
Add DI water to bring to 100 ml

2 Mix 5 ml of the concentrated PBS solution with 45 ml of DI
water.
3 Add 10 mg of the -NADH powder and mix thoroughly.
This is the 10x Concentrate PBS Solution.
Solution B: Sigma PBS
Required Materials:
Deionized water
Tween 20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate)
Sigma
P 3563 packets
-NADH Powder (-Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide,
Reduced Form) Sigma
bulk catalog number N 8129, or

preweighed 10-mg vials, Sigma
number 340-110
Store the -NADH powder according to the guidelines on its
packaging.
1. Prepare a PBS solution using the Sigma powder.
2. In a beaker, mix 50 ml of the PBS solution (prepared from the
Sigma powder) with 10 mg of the -NADH powder and mix
thoroughly.
This is the Sigma PBS Solution.
Procedure
1. Check the absorbance of a sample of buffer solution A or B at
340 nm on the microplate reader. This solution, which will be
referred to as the 100% Test Solution, will have an optical
density (absorbance) of approximately 0.700 to 1.000. This value is
not critical, but it should be within this absorbance range.
If low, adjust up by adding -NADH powder until the solution is at
least at the lower end of this range. Do not adjust if slightly high.
2. Carefully prepare a 75% Test Solution by diluting 15 ml of the
100% Test Solution:
If using the Sigma PBS Solution, use 5 ml as the diluent.
If using the 10x Concentrate PBS Solution, mix one part of the
concentrate with nine parts of DI water. Use 5 ml of this solution
as the diluent.
3. Carefully prepare a 50% Test Solution by diluting 10 ml of the
100% Test Solution:
If using the Sigma PBS Solution, use 10 ml as the diluent.
If using the 10x Concentrate PBS Solution, mix one part of the
concentrate with nine parts of DI water. Use 10 ml of this solution
as the diluent.
4. Pipette the three solutions into a new 96-well microplate:
150 l of the 100% Test Solution into all wells of columns 1 and 2
150 l of the 75% Test Solution into all wells of columns 3 and 4
150 l of the 50% Test Solution into all wells of column 5 and 6
5. Read the microplate five times using Normal Mode, single
wavelength at 340 nm, no blanking (or blank on air).
6. Print the five sets of raw data or export it to an Excel spreadsheet
using KCjunior or KC4.
If you are exporting the data to an Excel spreadsheet, perform
the calculations described on the following page, and keep the
spreadsheet for future tests.


Repeatability Test
1 For each well, calculate the mean 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
in the Normal Read Mode, which is 1.5% + 0.005 OD from 0.000
to 2.000 OD @ 340 nm (mean * 0.015 + 0.005).
3 For each well, compare the standard deviation calculated in step
1 with the allowed deviation calculated in step 2. The standard
deviation should be less than the allowed deviation.
For example:
Absorbance readings of 0.802, 0.802, 0.799, 0.798, and 0.801 will
result in a mean of 0.8004 and a standard deviation of 0.0018.
The mean multiplied by 1.5% (0.8004 * 0.015) equals 0.012, and
when added to the 0.005 (0.012 + 0.005) equals 0.017, which is
the allowed deviation for well A1. Since the standard deviation
for well A1 is less than 0.017, the well meets the test criteria.
Linearity Test
1 For each of the three dye concentrations, calculate the mean
absorbance for the wells containing that solution (mean of wells
A1 to H2, A3 to H4, and A5 to H6).
2 Perform a regression analysis on the data to determine if there is
adequate linearity.
Example using Microsoft Excel:
In a spreadsheet, enter the three mean values in ascending order
and label the column as the Y values. Enter 0.50, 0.75, and 1.00
and label the column as the X values.
Select Tools Data Analysis Regression. Identify
column Y as the Input Y Range and column X as the Input X
Range and then click OK to perform the analysis.
If the Data Analysis command is not available on the Tools
menu, you may need to install the Analysis ToolPak in
Microsoft Excel. Consult Excels help system for assistance.
Expected Results:
Since it is somewhat difficult to achieve high pipetting accuracy
when conducting linear dilutions, an R-Square value greater
than or equal to 0.990 is considered adequate.
Chapter 5
Maintenance and
Decontamination
This chapter contains procedures for maintaining and
decontaminating the ELx800.
Maintenance .............................................................................130
Routine Cleaning Procedure.........................................................130
Replacing the Bulb.....................................................................132
Decontamination Procedure.........................................................135
130 | Chapter 5: Maintenance and Decontamination
Maintenance
A daily maintenance schedule is the best way to ensure accurate performance and a long
life for your instrument. Frequent cleaning of the microplate carrier and all exposed
surfaces of the instrument will help to reduce the amount of particulates or dust that can
cause erroneous readings.
Routine Cleaning Procedure

Warning! Internal Voltage. Always turn off and
disconnect the reader from the power supply for all cleaning
operations.

Do not immerse the instrument, spray it with liquid, or use a
wet cloth. Do not allow the cleaning solution to run into the
interior of the instrument. If this happens, contact the Bio-Tek
Service Department.
Do not soak the keypadthis will cause damage. Moisten a
clean cloth with deionized or distilled water and wipe the
keypad. Dry immediately with a clean, dry cloth.
Do not apply lubricants to the microplate carrier or carrier
track. Lubrication 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.

Purpose
Exposed surfaces may be cleaned (not decontaminated) with a cloth moistened (not
soaked) with water or water and a mild detergent.
Routine Cleaning Procedure | 131
Tools and Supplies
Mild detergent
Deionized or distilled water
Clean cotton cloths

Procedure
1. Turn off and disconnect the instrument from the power supply.
2. Moisten a clean cotton cloth with water, or with water and the mild detergent.
Do not soak the cloth.
3. Wipe the plate carrier and all exposed surfaces of the instrument.
4. If detergent was used, wipe all surfaces with a cloth moistened with water.
5. Use a clean, dry cloth to dry all wet surfaces.

Replacing the Bulb
The lamp is rated for an average life of 600 hours. The intensity of the lamp will
slowly drop over time until the run time self check detects a low signal level
and the instrument displays an error code.
The bulb should be replaced and aligned at this time (use replacement bulb
PN 7330513). For UV and NB readers, use replacement bulb PN 7330516.
Figure 20 shows a detailed view of the lamp assembly.

Warning! The lamp will be hot immediately after the
reader has been shut down. Allow the lamp to cool down for
at least 10 minutes before attempting to replace the bulb.
To replace the bulb:
1. Important! Turn off and unplug the instrument.
2. Turn the instrument over on its back and remove the screws holding on the
top cover (see Figure 3 in Chapter 2).
3. Turn the instrument over again and lift the top cover off.
4. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the optics arm cover.
5. Loosen the hex screws that hold the lamp in place.
(Do not remove the screws.)
6. Slide the bulb out backward and detach it from the connector at the back of
the optics arm.
7. Insert the new bulb into the bulb retention springs.
8. Plug in and power up the unit. The lamp should light, although an error
message will appear on the instruments display because the lamp is not
aligned. Press any key to return to the Main Menu.
To align the bulb:
1. From the Main Menu, press UTIL to access the SELECT UTILITY OPTION
screen.
2. At the SELECT UTILITY OPTION screen, press SETUP READ
*MORE until BULB ALIGN is displayed. The carrier will move to the bulb
alignment position.

E D I T S E T U P
B U L B A L I G N * M O R E
Replacing the Bulb | 133
Optics arm cover
Optics arm
#1 aperture
Lamp retention
screws
Lamp retention screws
Bulb retainer
Bulb
assembly
Optics arm
Filter wheel
cover

Figure 20: Lamp assembly
Lead wires
To align bulbs on a standard model reader:

Warning! The lamp will be hot immediately after the
reader has been shut down. Allow the lamp to cool down for
at least 10 minutes before attempting to replace the bulb.
1 Use the lead wires to position the bulb to avoid damaging the glass
covering the bulb with fingertips.
2 Push the bulb forward until it stops.
3 Rotate and/or swing the bulb left or right to get a full circular image
on the carrier sheet metal.
4 Tighten the lamp retention screws and verify that the lamp has not
moved.
5 After completing the alignment, turn the instrument off and on
again to return the carrier to the home position.

Warning! The alignment procedure requires you to
observe the light path while the bulb is turned on. To
prevent possible vision impairment, avoid looking directly
at the bulb while it is on.
To align bulbs on UV and NB model readers:
1 Use the lead wires to position the bulb to avoid damaging the glass
covering the bulb with fingertips.
2 Keep the tip of the bulb slightly away from the optics arm #1
aperture (1 mm).
3 Rotate and/or swing the bulb left or right to get a good circular
image on the carriers sheet metal.
4 Tighten the lamp retention screws and verify that the lamp has not
moved.
5 After completing the alignment, turn the instrument off and on
again to return the carrier to the home position.

Decontamination Procedure | 135
Decontamination Procedure
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.

Bio-Tek Instruments, Inc. recommends the use of the
following decontamination solutions and methods based on
our knowledge of the instrument and recommendations of the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Neither
Bio-Tek nor the CDC assumes any liability for the adequacy of
these solutions and methods. Each laboratory must ensure
that decontamination procedures are adequate for the
Biohazard(s) they handle.

Wear prophylactic gloves when handling contaminated
instruments. Gloved hands should be considered
contaminated at all times; keep gloved hands away from eyes,
mouth, nose, and ears. Eating and drinking while
decontaminating instruments is not advised.

Mucous membranes are considered prime entry routes for
infectious agents. Wear eye protection and a surgical mask
when there is a possibility of aerosol contamination. Intact
skin is generally considered an effective barrier against
infectious organisms; however, small abrasions and cuts may
not always be visible. Wear protective gloves when
performing the decontamination procedure.

Tools and Supplies
Sodium hypochlorite (NaClO, or bleach)
70% isopropyl alcohol (as an alternative to bleach)
Deionized or distilled water
Safety glasses
Surgical mask
Protective gloves
Lab coat
Biohazard trash bags
125 ml beakers
Clean cotton cloths
Procedure

The bleach solution is caustic; wear gloves and eye
protection when handling the solution.
Do not immerse the instrument, spray it with liquid, or use a
wet cloth. Do not allow the cleaning solution to run into
the interior of the instrument. If this happens, contact the
Bio-Tek Service Department.
Do not soak the keypadthis will cause damage.

Important! Turn off and unplug the instrument for all
decontamination and cleaning operations.

1. Turn off and unplug the instrument.
2. Prepare an aqueous solution of 0.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaClO, or
bleach). As an alternative, 70% isopropyl alcohol may be used if the effects
of bleach are a concern.
Be sure to check the percent NaClO of the bleach you are using; this
information is printed on the side of the bottle. Commercial bleach is
typically 10% NaClO; if this is the case, prepare a 1:20 dilution.
Household bleach is typically 5% NaClO; if this is the case, prepare a
1:10 dilution.
Decontamination Procedure | 137
3. Moisten a cloth with the bleach solution or alcohol. Do not soak the cloth.
4. Wipe the keypad (do not soak). Wipe again with a clean cloth moistened
with deionized or distilled water. Dry immediately with a clean, dry cloth.
5. Wipe the plate carrier and all exposed surfaces of the instrument.
6. Wait 20 minutes. Moisten a cloth with deionized or distilled water and wipe
all surfaces of the instrument that have been cleaned with the bleach
solution or alcohol.
7. Use a clean, dry cloth to dry all wet surfaces.
8. Discard the used gloves and cloths using a Biohazard trash bag and an
approved Biohazard container.


Chapter 6
Troubleshooting and
Error Codes
This appendix describes potential error codes that may be displayed
on the ELx800, and suggests possible solutions for these problems.

Overview................................................................................140
System Test Description ...........................................................140
Glossary of Terms ...............................................................140
Error Codes ............................................................................141
General Errors ....................................................................142
Fatal Errors ........................................................................148

140 | Chapter 6: Troubleshooting and Error Codes

Overview
If an error is displayed, consult the error code list to see if the error is easily correctable.
If you cannot resolve the problem, run the instrument System Test and note the exact
error code and serial number of the reader. Then call Bio-Teks Technical Assistance
Center (refer to Chapter 1 for contact information).
System Test Description
The System Test feature conducts a series of tests, at each of five set wavelengths,
which confirm adequate light levels, low electronic noise, adequate photodiode
sensitivity, and overall system cleanliness. The testing is designed to ensure that the
ELx800 will give in-specification performance for each set wavelength over the
specified OD range.
The reader automatically runs an internal System Test each time it is powered on. The
reader will chirp repeatedly if the power-on System Test results do not meet the
internally coded Failure Mode Effects Analysis (FMEA) criteria established by Bio-Tek.
A system test should then be initiated to try to retrieve an error code from the reader.

Glossary of Terms
Air Blank: A full light reading through a filter with no plate in the light
path.
Dark Current: A reading taken with the light blocked to measure
background light levels in the reading chamber. Also used as a measure of
background electronic noise within the measurement circuit.
Gain: An automatic electronic adjustment to the measurement circuit. The
gain adjustment compensates for changing light levels or filter variations.
For example, if the lamp output decreases slightly, the gain will increase to
make up the difference.
Axis: Refers to a motor for the filter wheel or plate carrier.
Offset: A numerical limit, usually a range. For example, if the gain fails an
offset test, it may be too high or too low.
Error Codes | 141
Error Codes
An error code is displayed on the instrument as a four-digit identifier. The first
character will be 0, 1, 2, or A.
Note: If an error code is displayed, run a System Self-Test for
diagnostic purposes.
0, 1, or 2 indicates a noncritical error, and the instrument will respond to
keypad input. See General Errors on the next few pages for more information.
Motor or Optical Sensor Channel
0 = Carrier X-Axis 0 = Reference
1 = Carrier Y-Axis 1 = Measurement
A indicates a more serious error. In this case, turn off the instrument. Upon
restarting the instrument, you should be able to use the keypad. See Fatal
Errors on page 148 for more information.
Contact Bio-Tek's Technical Assistance Center for further assistance if any of error
codes are displayed. Refer to Chapter 1 for contact information.

General Errors
General errors indicate nonfatal conditions that require attention.

Code Description and Probable Causes
0100 Abort
The read or task has been aborted.
0101 Abort Error
The read or task has been aborted. The 0101 indicates a software abort.
Probable Causes:
User aborted read from KC4.
User aborted from another serial interface.
0200 X-axis (carrier in/out) motor did not find the opto (home) sensor
A motor was unable to move to its home position as registered by feedback
from an optical sensor.
Probable Causes:
Defective or broken optical sensor.
Flex cable is disconnected or damaged.
X-axis movement is limited so that the optical sensor cannot be
interrupted.

Note: In cases where a sensor is not functioning, the
motor will drive the axis to its mechanical stop and
generate substantial noise.

Error Codes | 143
General Errors (Continued)

0201 Y-axis (carrier left/right) motor did not find the home sensor
A motor was not able to move to its home position as registered by feedback
from an optical sensor.
Probable Causes:
Defective or broken optical sensor.
Sensor not connected.
Y-axis movement is limited so that the optical sensor cannot be
interrupted.
0202 Filter wheel did not find opto (home) sensor
Probable Cause:
Failed lamp.
0300-
0301
Light beam not found
During the X-axis movement, the light beam (saturation) transition (max light
to no light) was never found during autocalibration.
Probable Causes:
Loose belt, loose motor pulley, or defective motor drive causing the
carrier to ignore movement instructions.
Failed lamp.
Loose filter wheel drive gear or defective motor controller PCB.
0302
Filter wheel failed positional verify; lamp failed
A failed lamp generates a 0302 error on power-up.


0400 Carrier X-axis movement failed positional verify
Motor X-axis failed to get to the same position when moved a known number
of steps from the home position and back.
Probable Causes:
The belt has slipped because of incorrect tension, a loose motor pulley, or
a loose belt clamp.
Defective motor drive.
0401 Carrier Y-axis movement failed positional verify
Motor X-axis failed to get to the same position when moved a known number
of steps from the home position and back.
Probable Causes:
The belt has slipped because of incorrect tension, a loose motor pulley, or
a loose belt clamp.
0402 Filter wheel failed positional verify; lamp failed
Probable Causes:
Optical trigger flag has moved or is loose.
Filter wheel is binding against the motor gear.
Bearings caused motors to fail.
0500 Filter not installed
Probable Causes:
Empty filter location on the filter wheel (all filter locations must have
either a filter or a filter blank, Bio-Tek PN 2872086).
Entire filter wheel is not installed.
Error Codes | 145

0601 Filter #1 Gain out of range
These errors indicate that the gain for the filter in question is out of the range
necessary to ensure performance to specifications.
Probable Causes:
Defective interference filter.
Defective lamp providing reduced signal, causing the error.
Misaligned optics.
0700 Reader failed noise test
Significant variations in background electronic noise were detected when
blocking the light and increasing the gain to maximum.
Probable Causes:
External signals may be penetrating the measurement chamber. Ensure
that the bottom and top shrouds, as well as the filter wheel cover, are
correctly installed.
A faulty motherboard (PN 7330400, 7330410, or 7330415) or daughter
board (PN 7330404 or 7330414).
Photodiode or power supply may be too close to the instrument.
Failure indicates excessive variation in the dark current (background)
noise levels of the measurement circuit.
0800 Reader failed offset test
During self-test, the background electronic signal detected is outside of
acceptable limits at maximum gain when blocking the light.
Probable Causes:
If noise Max is > 20000.
There may be an ambient light leak. Ensure that the plate carrier
door is properly closed.
Faulty motherboard (PN 7330400, 7330410, or 7330415) or daughter
board (PN 7330404, or 7330414).
Photodiode or power supply may be too close to the instrument.


0900 Read time dark value out of range
The dark current value taken during the current read is significantly
different from the same reading taken during the power-up self-check.
Probable Cause:
The measurement electronics background noise has changed since the last
power-up self-check.
Ambient light may have increased since power-up.
0A01-
0A05
Read time Air Blank out of range
The blank (full signal) reading taken during the current read has changed
significantly from the same reading taken during the power-up self-check.
Probable Cause:
Lamp is unstable. Reboot system and/or install new lamp. Turn unit OFF
when not in use to conserve lamp life.
0B00 Invalid assay
An assay number that is not programmed was selected.
0C00 Printer timed out
The time allotted for the instrument to make a valid connection to a printer has
expired.
Probable Causes:
Printer not connected, on line, or powered up.
Printer parallel port may not be correctly selected.
Error Codes | 147
Errors 0D00 through 1300 indicate that the reader has failed one or
more of a number of self-tests. Contact Bio-Teks Technical Assistance
Center for instructions. Refer to Chapter 1 for contact information.
0D00 Calibration checksum error
Reader failed calibration checksum test.
Probable Cause:
The stored checksum value for the calibration data does not match the
actual checksum.
0E01-
0E05
Wavelength not found in table
The specified wavelength is not detected in the instruments filter table. The
last number is the filter set number in the assay protocol.
Probable Causes:
Assay wavelength does not match the filter table.
Run system test. Verify that wavelengths in the filter wheel match
settings in the filter table (see Chapter 2).
0F00-
0F05
Filter signal out of range
The filter (1-5) has a signal that is out of range.
Probable Causes:
This indicates a light level problem with one or more filters.
A UV filter may have been installed in a non-UV instrument.
A blank filter may be incorrectly installed in a filter position.
Verify that filters in the filter wheel match settings in the filter table
(see Chapter 2).
1000 Configuration data missing
Required reader configuration data was missing at the beginning of the self-
test.
Possible Causes:
Necessary configuration data was not downloaded or was downloaded
incorrectly.



1100 Failed configuration checksum test
The stored checksum value from the configuration data does not match the
actual checksum of the current configuration data.
Probable Cause:
The configuration data has changed and the checksum stored is no longer
valid. The error is produced when outdated versions of assay definition
software are used to create an assay configuration file.
This file is incompatible with the operation code within the instruments
memory.
Recreate the assay definition using the correct version of assay
definition software and re-download the software.
1200 Autocalibration data missing
No Autocal data exists for the read location.
Probable Cause:
Autocalibration was not performed following assay definition download.
1300 Motor not homed successfully
If the motor is not correctly homed, the instrument sends an error and exits the
function.
Probable Causes:
Errors 0200 or 0300 have been ignored. Refer to Probable Causes for
these errors on pages 142 and 143.
Fatal Errors
Fatal Errors indicate conditions that require immediate attention. If a fatal error is
displayed, contact Bio-Teks Technical Assistance Center for further instructions.
Refer to Chapter 1 for contact information.
Code Description and Probable Causes
A100 Task control block not available
A200 Read already in progress
A300 Device not available
A304 Printer device not available
A400 Failed code checksum on power-up
A500 Code flash readback timed out
A600 Quick flash configuration timed out

Appendix A
Controlling the Reader
With KCjunior or
KC4

The ELx800 can be controlled either from Bio-Teks
KCjunior or KC4 PC Software. This Appendix provides
instructions for programming the computer to control the
reader.
Overview............................................................................... 150
Controlling the Reader With KCjunior...................................... 151
Problems........................................................................... 152
Getting Started With KCjunior ........................................... 152
Controlling the Reader With KC4 ............................................ 153
Problems........................................................................... 154
Getting Started With KC4.................................................. 154

150 | Appendix A: Controlling the Reader With KCjunior or KC4

Overview
Using KCjunior or KC4 software provides the user even more power and
flexibility. For example, complex assays using features not available through
the front panel may be defined and run.
This Appendix provides instructions for controlling the reader with Bio-Teks
KCjunior or KC4 software packages.

Controlling the Reader With KCjunior | 151

Controlling the Reader With KCjunior
The ELx800 can be operated using a computer running Bio-Tek's KCjunior
software. Follow the steps below:
1. Power off the computer and the reader. Connect the serial cable (PN
75053) between the two machines.
2. Power up both machines.
3. Install KCjunior on the computers hard drive.
4. Once installed, start KCjunior.
5. Select Setup, then Reader1. To select the reader and define the
communications parameters, choose the following setup parameters:
Reader: ELx800, EL800, or
ELx800UV, EL800UV, or ELx800NB, EL800NB
Com Port: COM1 or COM2 (the serial port used for the
RS-232 cable connection)
Baud Rate: 2400, 4800, or 9600 must match the baud rate on
the reader)
Data Bits: 8
Parity: None
Stop Bits: 2
EOT Character: Keep the default number.
6. Click the Test Communications button to attempt to establish
communications with the reader, using the currently defined
communication parameters. If a Serial Write Error dialog box is
displayed, an incorrect Com Port may have been selected. Select a
different port and then repeat this step.
7. If the test passes, click OK to save the settings and close the dialog box.
If the test fails, follow the directions provided by KCjunior, then click
Test Communications again.

To learn more about KCjunior and how to define assays and read plates, refer to
the KCjunior Users Manual.

Problems
If KCjunior fails to communicate with the reader, and displays a serial
communications error, check the cable plug-in location to make sure it
matches the setup choices and is not a Null cable. If this is suspected, add
another Null and try again.
Getting Started With KCjunior
The following instructions briefly describe how to read a plate using
KCjunior. Refer to KCjunior's Help system and User's Guide early and
often to learn how to create protocols, assign well identifiers, read plates,
print reports, and more.
To read a plate using KCjunior:
1. Click Read Plate from KCjunior's main screen. The Read Plate
Dialog will appear.
2. If desired, enter a Results ID and a Plate Description, and then click
Read Plate. The Protocol Definition dialog will appear.
3. Select a Read Method Type of Endpoint, Kinetic, or
Multiwavelength.
4. Define the wavelength(s) at which the plate will be read.
5. Select a Plate Geometry from the drop-down list.
6. Define other reading parameters as necessary. Click the Help button
for assistance.
7. When complete, click OK to return to the Read Plate dialog. If
desired, enter a Plate ID.
8. Place the plate on the carrier, then click OK to start the plate read.
The plate will be read and then the raw data results will display
in KCjunior. Print the raw data by selecting Plate|Print Results.
To analyze or manipulate results, a protocol should be defined.
Refer to KCjunior's Help system or User's Guide for instructions.
Controlling the Reader With KC4 | 153

Controlling the Reader With KC4
The ELx800 can be operated using a computer running Bio-Tek's KC4 software.
Follow the steps below:
1. Power off the computer and the reader. Connect the appropriate serial
cable
(PN 75053) between the two machines.
2. Power up both machines.
3. Install KC4 on the computers hard drive.
4. Once installed, start KC4.
5. Select System, Readers.
6. Scroll through the list of Available Readers and select the appropriate
ELx800 reader model. Click the Port button (and subsequent Setup
button), to define the following communications parameters:
Port: COM1, 2, 3, or 4 (the serial port used for the
RS-232 cable connection)
Baud Rate: 2400, 4800, or 9600 (must match the baud rate
on the reader)
Data Bits: 8
Parity: None
Stop Bits: 2
7. Click the Current Reader button to attempt to establish
communications with the reader, using the currently defined
communication parameters.
8. If the test passes, click OK to save the settings and close the dialog box.
If the test fails, KC4 will provide appropriate instructions for resolving
any problems. See also the Problems section below.

To learn more about KC4 and how to define assays and read plates, refer to the
KC4 Users Manual.

Problems
If KC4 fails to communicate with the reader and displays a serial
communications error, check the cable plug-in location to ensure that it
matches the setup choices and is not a Null cable. If this is suspected, add
another Null and try again.
If an Incorrect Reader Model Connected dialog box is displayed, click
OK to clear the screen and select System, Readers, Available Readers.
Verify that the reader selected is correct.
Getting Started With KC4
The following instructions briefly describe how to read a plate using KC4.
Refer to KC4's Help system and User's Guide early and often to learn how
to create protocols, assign well identifiers, read plates, print reports, and
more.
To read a plate using KC4:
1. Select Data|New Plate.
2. If prompted to select a protocol, select Empty Protocol and click
OK. If not prompted, select Protocol|New, or use KC4s Protocol
Wizard to step through protocol creation.
3. Select Protocol|Reading. The Reading parameters dialog will
appear.
4. Select a Reading Type of Endpoint, or Kinetic.
6. Select a Plate Type from the drop-down list.
7. Define other reading parameters as necessary. Click the Help button
for assistance.
8. When complete, click OK.
9. Select Data|Read Plate. The Plate Reading dialog will appear.
10. Enter any comments, place the plate on the carrier, then click Start
Reading to begin the plate read.
in KC4.
To analyze, manipulate, or print results, protocol parameters
should be defined. Refer to KC4's Help system or User's Guide
for instructions.

Appendix B
Using 384-Well
Geometry
The following describes how to manipulate data received
from a plate with 384-well geometry. To capture and
manipulate the raw data using 384-well geometry, you must
use KCjunior or KC4. The Optical Density values will be
downloaded, via the RS-232 port, and added to the data
logging program.
KCjunior............................................................................. 156
KC4 ................................................................................... 159

156 | Appendix B: Using 384-Well Geometry

KCjunior
KCjunior, Bio-Teks data reduction package for Windows
, can control the ELx800

in 6-, 12-, 24-, 48-, 96-, and 384-well formats, as well as in 60-, 72- ,and 96-well
Terasaki plate formats.
1. Start KCjunior.
2. At KCjuniors main menu, choose Setup|Reader 1.

Figure 21: KCjunior main menu, Setup|Reader 1 dialog

3. The Reader Setup 1 dialog will appear. Select ELx800,EL800 at
Reader Type, and define the communication parameters.Click OK to
return to the main menu screen.

Figure 22: Reader Setup 1 dialog

KCjunior | 157

4. Click Read Plate to enter the Results ID and Plate Description.

Figure 23: Read Plate dialog

5. Choose New Protocol to define the protocol.

Figure 24: Protocol Definition (General Information) dialog

6. Define the Read Method parameters.
Set the Plate Geometry to 8 x 12.

Figure 25: Protocol Definition (Read Method) dialog
7. Click OK to read the plate and display the results.
KC4 | 159

KC4
Bio-Teks KC4 data reduction package can control the ELx800 in 6-, 12-, 24-, 48-, 96,
and 384-well formats, as well as in 60-, 72-, and 96-well Terasaki plate formats.
1. Start KC4.
2. At KC4s main menu, choose System|Readers.

Figure 26: KC4 main menu, System|Readers

3. The Reader Selection dialog will appear. Select the ELx800 reader and
define the communications parameters. Click on Close to return to the
main menu.

Figure 27: Reader Selection dialog

4. Select Data|New Plate.

Figure 28: Data|New Plate dialog
5. If prompted to select a protocol, select Empty Protocol and click OK.
If not prompted, select Protocol|New, or use KC4s Protocol Wizard to
step through protocol creation.

Figure 29: New Data File dialog

KC4 | 161

6. Select Protocol|Reading from the main menu. The Reading
parameters dialog will appear.

Figure 30: Reading Parameters dialog

7. Select a Reading Type of End Point or Kinetic.
9. Select a Plate Type.
10. Define other reading parameters as necessary. Click the Help button for
assistance.
11. When complete, click OK.
12. Select Data|Read Plate. The Plate Reading dialog will appear.
13. Enter any comments, place the plate on the carrier, then click Start
Reading to begin the plate read.
in KC4.
To analyze, manipulate, or print results, protocol parameters
should be defined. Refer to KC4's Help system or User's Guide
for instructions.

Appendix C
Report Format
This appendix contains examples of reports that can be
generated and/or printed from the ELx800. Refer to Printing
Reports in Chapter 3 for details on how to print these
reports. In addition, an Assay List, Assay Definition, Map,
and Result can be printed by choosing Report from the Main
Menu screen.

164 | Appendix C: Report Format

Figure 31: Samples with calls on Matrix Report
| 165

Figure 32: Curve Fit Report

Figure 33: Samples with calls on Column Report
| 167

Figure 34: Column Report without samples


Figure 35: Panel Report
| 169

Figure 36: Assay Detail Report (Sheet 1 of 2)

Assay Li st
Ver si on: 3. 7
1 ASSAY 01
2 ASSAY 02
3 ASSAY 03
4 ASSAY 04
5 ASSAY 05
6 ASSAY 06
7 ASSAY 07
8 ASSAY 08
9 ASSAY 09
10 ASSAY 10
11 ASSAY 11
12 ASSAY 12
13 ASSAY 13
14 ASSAY 14
15 ASSAY 15
16 ASSAY 16
17 ASSAY 17
18 ASSAY 18
19 ASSAY 19
20 ASSAY 20
21 ASSAY 21
22 ASSAY 22
23 ASSAY 23
24 ASSAY 24
25 ASSAY 25
26 ASSAY 26
27 ASSAY 27
28 ASSAY 28
29 ASSAY 29
30 ASSAY 30
31 ASSAY 31
32 ASSAY 32
33 ASSAY 33
34 ASSAY 34
35 ASSAY 35
36 ASSAY 36
37 ASSAY 37
38 ASSAY 38
39 ASSAY 39
40 ASSAY 40
41 ASSAY 41
42 ASSAY 42
43 ASSAY 43
44 ASSAY 44
45 ASSAY 45
46 ASSAY 46
47 ASSAY 47
48 ASSAY 48
49 ASSAY 49
50 ASSAY 50
51 ASSAY 51
52 ASSAY 52
53 ASSAY 53
54 ASSAY 54
55 ASSAY 55
Figure 37: Assay Detail Report (Sheet 2 of 2)
Appendix D
Comparison of the
ELx800 and the EL800

The following chart compares the features on the ELx800 and EL800 microplate
readers.

Feature ELx800 EL800
340-750 nm
405-750 nm x x
Single- and dual-wavelength reading x x
6-well plates x
12-well plates x
24-well plates x
48-well plates x
96-well plates x x
Edit Assay Name x
Absorbance Values x x
Formulas x
Curve fits x
# Assays available 55 10
# Results stored 8 1
Blanks and samples only in Map x
Blanks, standards, controls and blanks in Map x
Panel Assay x
Computer Control capability* x x
Serial and Parallel output x x
Customizable via Extensions x

*The EL800 version can be computer controlled and will function as an ELx800.
All ELx800 optical specifications apply to the ELx800.

172 | Appendix D: Comparison of the ELx800 and the EL800

172
Appendix E
Instructions for Programming a
New Assay
This appendix provides two examples of assay kit instructions and
step-by-step directions for programming each assay. The appendix
includes two sample assays: one with a ratio transformation
calculation and a POS/NEG cutoff determination, and another with a
standard curve.These examples are based on real assays; however,
the results have not been verified on any clinical kits. The kit
instructions are provided so that users can see how it is possible to
translate the kit wording into an ELx800 assay program. For clarity,
only the user menu choices from the reader screens are shown.
Refer to Chapter 3 for details.

Important! The ELx800 user is responsible for
programming the reader properly according to their
specific kit instructions, and for verifying that the
calculations are performed correctly.

Sample ANA Screen Enzyme Immunoassay Kit........................... 174
Programming the ANA Screen Enzyme Immunoassay Kit ............. 177
Sample Human Anticardiolipin IgG Enzyme Immunoassay Kit....... 179
Programming the Human Anticardiolipin IgG
Enzyme Immunoassay Kit .................................................. 184

174 | Appendix E: Instructions for Programming a New Assay

Sample ANA Screen Enzyme Immunoassay Kit
(Transformation and Cutoff)
Intended Use
This assay is designed for the in vitro screening of human serum for the
presence of specific IgG antinuclear antibodies (ANAs), to aid in
diagnosing certain systemic rheumatic diseases. Sufficient materials are
supplied to allow a maximum of 93 samples to be screened in single, with a
positive, cutoff, and negative controls.
Background
Antinuclear antibodies occur in a large number of patients with systemic
rheumatic diseases. These diseases are characterized by the presence of one
or more ANAs.
Sera positive on this ANA kit should be tested for the specific
autoantibodies indicative of the various systemic rheumatic diseases.
Principle of the Assay
Microwells are pre-coated with purified antigens. The prediluted controls
and diluted patient samples are added to the wells, and autoantibodies
recognizing one or a combination of antigens bind during the first
incubation. After washing the wells to remove all unbound proteins, IgG
conjugate is added. The conjugate binds to the captured human
autoantibody, and the excess unbound conjugate is removed by a further
wash step. Substrate is added that causes a blue reaction, thereby exposing
the bound conjugate, and producing an intensity proportional to the
concentration of autoantibody in the sample. Phosphoric acid is added to
each well to stop the reaction. This produces a yellow end-point color,
which is read at 450 nm.
| 175

Materials
Materials Supplied
Instruction Leaflet: Giving full assay details.
QC Certificate: Indicating the expected performance of the batch.
ANA Coated Wells: 12 x 8 well strips coated with purified
antigens.
Type III Wash Buffer 20x Concentrate: 1 bottle containing 50
ml of a concentrated buffer for washing the wells.
Type III Sample Diluent: 2 bottles containing 50 ml of buffer for
sample dilution. Ready to use.
ANA Positive Control: 1 bottle containing 1.8 ml of diluted
stabilized human serum. Ready to use.
ANA Cutoff Control: 1 bottle containing 1.8 ml of diluted
ANA Negative Control: 1 bottle containing 1.8 ml of diluted
ANA Conjugate: 1 bottle containing 12 ml of peroxidase labeled
antibody to human IgG. Colored red, ready to use.
TMB Substrate: 1 bottle containing 14 ml TMB substrate. Ready to
use.
Stop Solution: 1 bottle containing 14 ml of 3M Phosphoric acid.
Ready to use.
Additional Materials and Equipment Not Supplied
Automatic Microplate Plate Washer: This is recommended;
however, plate washing can be performed manually.
Plate Reader: Capable of measuring optical densities at 450 nm
referenced on air.
Distilled or Deionized Water: This should be of the highest
quality available.
Calibrated Micropipettes: For dispensing 1000, 100, and 10 l.
Multichannel Pipette: Recommended for dispensing 100 l
volumes of conjugate, substrate, and stop solution.
Glass/Plastic Tubes: For sample dilution.

Quality Control and Results
Quality Control
For an assay to be valid, all the following criteria must be met:
Cutoff as well as Positive and Negative controls must be
included in each run.
The OD of the cutoff and the ANA result of the Negative and
Positive Controls should be in the ranges specified on the QC
Certificate.
For example: The absorbance of the Positive Control must be
greater than 1.200 OD.
The absorbance of the Negative Control must be less than 0.300
OD.
Note: If the above criteria are not met, the assay is invalid and
the test should be repeated.
Calculation of the Sample Results
Use the following formula to calculate the ANA result for each sample:
Control or sample OD

x 10 = Control or sample value (U/ml)
Cutoff control OD
9
Expected Values
The normal range was determined on serum from 200 normal adult blood
donors. The cutoff control has been set at a point equivalent to the upper
normal limit, or a cutoff level of 10 U/ml.
The ranges are provided as a guide only. ELISA assays are very sensitive
and capable of detecting small differences in sample populations. It is
recommended that each laboratory determine its own normal range, based
on the population techniques and equipment employed.

ANA Result Interpretation
< 10.0 Negative
> 10.0 Positive
| 177

Programming the ANA Screen Enzyme
Immunoassay Kit
(Transformation and Cutoff)
From the Main Menu, press DEFINE. Select the assay name and edit the name if
desired. At the DEFINE menu:

STEP COMMENTS
To program the reading method, press:
METHOD
WAVELENGTH (Dual or Single): Single
MEASURE (Wavelength): 450
PLATE TYPE: 96

To program the plate map, press:
MAP
AUTO: Auto mapping is normally
preferred, because it fills in the well
IDs logically and automatically after
determining which direction to map
and how many wells to fill.
DOWN: Maps the wells down the column
DOWN: Locates replicates in a vertical
orientation down the column
A01: Begins mapping at well location A01

BLANK MAP: AIR Choose to blank on AIR if no blank
wells are required
NUMBER STDS: 00
NUMBER CTLS: 03

CONTROL 1: PC
CONTROL 2: CTL1 Suggested choice for the cutoff control
CONTROL 3: NC

NUMBER OF REPLICATES
PC: 01
CTL1: 03

STEP COMMENTS
SAMPLES: 91 User-defined; recommendation is to fill
the entire plate
SAMPLE REPLICATES: 01
Use the MAP and MATH keys to
create the control validation formula:
FORMULA
VAL
CONTROL:
PC;x > 1.200
NO. OF REPLICATES: 01
NC;x < 0.300
NO. OF REPLICATES: 01
When defining control validation
formulas, use PC to indicate the
criterion for each of the PC replicates,
and PC;x to indicate the average of the
Positive Control replicates.

To create the plate transformation for CALC,
divide the ANA result by a cutoff standard.
FORMULA
*MORE
TRANS-VAR

SCOPE VARIABLE (SMP or OD) Select OD to advance to the formula
definition screen and define the
transformation variable (Tvar)
FORMULA
CTL1;X Defining TRANS VAR = CTL1;X isolates
the OD value for CTL1;X for use in
transformation
TRANS:
FORMULA: (OD/TVAR)*10 Converts all OD values on plate to
ANA Result per kit insert instructions

To define a cutoff formula for Positive and
Negative calls:
FORMULA
CUTOFF: 10.0
GREYZONE: 00%
SAMPLE > CUTOFF + 00%: POS
| 179

Sample Human Anticardiolipin IgG Enzyme
Immunoassay Kit
(Standard Curve and Cutoff)
Intended Use
This assay is intended for the in vitro measurement of IgG anticardiolipin
antibodies in human serum, as an aid in the diagnosis of antiphospholipid
syndrome (APS).
Sufficient materials are supplied to allow a maximum of 41 samples to be
tested in duplicate or 89 in single, with a standard curve and positive and
negative controls.

Background
Anticardiolipin antibodies are found in a wide range of conditions either
transiently, in some infectious diseases, or more persistently in
autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and
antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). Anticardiolipin antibodies have also
been associated with a range of clinical conditions

including fetal loss,
endocarditis, stroke, heart attack and autoimmune haemolytic.
Principle of the Assay
Microwells are precoated with cardiolipin and cofactor. Standards,
controls, and patient samples are added to the wells, and autoantibodies
recognizing cardiolipin bind during the first incubation. After washing the
wells to remove all unbound proteins, conjugate is added. The conjugate
binds to the captured human antibody, and the excess unbound conjugate
is removed by a further wash step. Substrate is added that causes a blue
reaction, thereby exposing the bound conjugate and producing an intensity
proportional to the concentration of autoantibody in the sample.
Phosphoric acid is added to each well to stop the reaction. This produces a
yellow end-point color, which is read at 450 nm.

Materials
Materials Supplied
Instruction Leaflet: Giving full assay details.
QC Certificate: Indicating the expected performance of the batch.
Cardiolipin Coated Wells: 12 break-apart 8-well strips coated
with bovine cardiolipin antigen. The plate is packaged in a re-
sealable foil bag containing two desiccant pouches.
Type II Sample Diluent: 2 bottles containing 50 ml of buffer for
sample dilution. Colored yellow, ready to use.
Type II Wash Buffer (20x Concentrate): 1 bottle containing 50
ml of a 20-fold concentrated buffer for washing the wells.
Cardiolipin IgG Standards: 5 bottles each containing 1.2 ml of
diluted human serum, with the following concentrations of
anticardiolipin autoantibody: 100, 50, 25, 12.5, 6.25 GPL U/ml.
Ready to use.
The standard set is calibrated against the Louisville APL reference
preparation.
Cardiolipin IgG Positive Control: 1 bottle containing 1.2 ml of
diluted human serum. The expected value is given on the QC
certificate. Ready to use.
Cardiolipin Negative Control: 1 bottle containing 1.2 ml of
diluted human serum. The expected value is given on the QC
certificate. Ready to use.
Cardiolipin IgG Conjugate: 1 bottle containing 12 ml of purified
peroxidase labeled antibody. Colored red, ready to use.
TMB Substrate: 1 bottle containing 14 ml TMB substrate. Ready to
use.
Stop Solution: 1 bottle containing 14 ml of 3M phosphoric acid.
Ready to use.

| 181

Additional Materials and Equipment Not Supplied
Automatic Microplate Plate Washer: This is recommended;
however, plate washing can be performed manually.
Plate Reader: Capable of measuring optical densities at 450 nm
referenced on air.
Distilled or Deionized Water: This should be of the highest
quality available.
Calibrated Micropipettes: For dispensing 1000, 100, and 10 l.
Multichannel Pipette: Recommended for dispensing 100 l
volumes of conjugate, substrate, and stop solution.
Glass/Plastic Tubes: For sample dilution.
Quality Control and Results
Quality Control
For an assay to be valid, all the following criteria must be met:
Standards and the positive and negative controls must be
included in each run.
The values obtained for all the controls should be in the ranges
specified on the QC Certificate.
The curve shape should be similar to the standard curve, shown
on the QC Certificate.
If the above criteria are not met, the assay is invalid and the test
should be repeated.
Calculate Mean Optical Densities (for assays run in
duplicate only)
For each standard, control and sample calculate the mean OD of the
duplicate readings. The user must verify that the percentage coefficient
of variation (%CV) for each duplicate OD is less than 15.0%.

Plot Calibration Curve
The calibration curve can be plotted either automatically or manually as
follows by plotting the anticardiolipin autoantibody concentration on
the log scale against the OD on the linear scale for each calibrator:
Automatic - Use appropriately validated software, and the curve
fit that best fits the data.
Manual - Using log/linear graph paper, draw a smooth curve
through the points (not a straight line or point to point).
Treatment of Anomalous Points
If any one point does not lie on the curve, it can be removed. If the
absence of this point means that the curve has a shape dissimilar to
that of the sample calibration curve, or more than one point appears
to be anomalous, then the assay should be repeated.
Calculation of Autoantibody Levels in Controls and
Samples
Read the level of the anticardiolipin autoantibody in the controls and
diluted samples directly from the calibration curve. The control values
should fall within the range given on the QC Certificate.
Note: The standard values have been adjusted by a factor of
100 to account for a 1:100 sample dilution. No further
correction is required.
Assay Calibration
The assays are calibrated against the Louisville reference LAPL-GM-
100. One GPL unit is defined as the cardiolipin binding activity of 1
g/ml of an affinity purified IgG anticardiolipin preparation from a
standard serum.
The Louisville reference center recommends the following positive
discrimination criteria according to the recommendation of the 2
nd
International Anticardiolipin Workshop.

Criteria Range (GPLU/ml)
High Positive > 80
Medium Positive 20-80
Low Positive 10, < 20
| 183

Results Interpretation
The association between low positive levels of anticardiolipin
antibodies and clinical findings is unclear.
Normal population studies indicate that there is a higher prevalence of
IgM positives in the normal population than IgG, 9.4% and 6.5%,
respectively. In normal pregnancy, the levels are higher still at 17.0%
(IgM) and 10.6% (IgG).
Expected Values
The normal range was determined on serum from 102 normal adult blood
donors. The ranges below are provided as a guide only. ELISA assays are
very sensitive and capable of detecting small differences in sample
populations. It is recommended that each laboratory determine its own
normal range, based on the population techniques and equipment
employed.

IgG Anticardiolipin
< 11 GPL U/ml Negative result
> 11 GPL U/ml Positive result


Programming the Human Anticardiolipin IgG
Enzyme Immunoassay Kit
(Standard Curve and Cutoff)
From the Main Menu, press DEFINE. Select the assay name and edit the name if
desired. At the define menu, follow steps below:
STEP COMMENTS
To program the reading method, press:
METHOD
WAVELENGTH (Dual or Single): Single
MEASURE (Wavelength[s] to use): 450
PLATE TYPE: 96

To program the plate map, press:
MAP
AUTO
DOWN
DOWN
A01
BLANK MAP: AIR
NUMBER STDS: 05
NUMBER STD REPLICATES: 01
CONCENTRATIONS:
STD1: 6.25
STD2: 12.5
STD3: 25
STD4: 50
STD5: 100
NUMBER CTLS: 02

CONTROL 1: PC
CONTROL 2: NC

NUMBER OF REPLICATES
PC: 01
NC: 01
SAMPLES: 89
SAMPLE REPLICATES: 01
| 185

STEP COMMENTS
To define a cutoff formula for Positive and
Negative calls:
Kit instructions specify that samples
with concentration values greater
than 11 should appear as positive. The
ELx800 software calculates the cutoff
based on absorbance value or
transformed value (see the previous
example) and cannot calculate based
on concentration. The technician must
make the positive or negative
determination visually, based on the
calculated concentration results.
Curve: 4P As a general guideline, choose
linear if you expect a straight line
result. Choose 4P for all others,
unless otherwise specified by the kit
instructions.
The reader will automatically
calculate the concentrations of the
samples when the assay is run.



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ELx800

Absorbance Microplate Reader

20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate) or

#3590 is recommended). Use a

bulk catalog number N 8129, or

bulk catalog number N 8129, or

, can control the ELx800

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