USER MANUAL USER MANUAL
Contents
1. c ge SERRE I TL ce ab ab ee a M COT EE k Vb mni aba an SERVERS EEELSOCELS SERENE amp rkhhhhhhhhhh nhduis t hhhhh e e HOH F Source Target Figure 46 Model duplication Example 4 6 replicates of 5 wells from a 96 well microplate to a 384 well microplate Version 2 0 41 Date Nov 07 2011 Example 2 7 tips used Target Figure 47 Model duplication Example 5 3 replicates of seven wells from one 96 well microplate to another 96 well microplate C Protocol Validation Once the creation of the protocol has finished click on Validate to get to the next step Back to the sequence page click on each sequence to make them visible on the screen The sources are marked in red and the targets are marked in green TROUBLESHOOTING This message appears when your source does not contain enough liquid for the task that you ask So add the volume needed and go to Initialization stage for that source again AskConfirmationZ Buttons Window This container does not have enough solution Do you want ajust volume Figure 48 Source volume adj2. AlphaHelix TM aBot USER MANUAL Innehall 4 1 FEW WORD ABOUT ALPHAHELIX TECHNOLOGIES 5 5 ADVICE 6 Sad TW 6 TION 6 S BLBOCIRONIGAL SAFETY TS SUES 7 INSTALLATION AND SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 7 3 4 CONTEXT OP USE AND USER 5 EET E I 8 8 Bae ADVIGES 8 AFET X SS 9 PRURE QUTSII 9 ENVIRONMENT 9 WEEKLY NAN E Odo 11 4 1 DESINFECTING SOLUTIONS DESCRIP TION S 11 11 13 5 1 UNPACKING PROCEDURE OF THE 13 5 2 PREPARING THE ROBOT FOR TRANSPORT esee rennen entren tenete tenete tatit intr
3. aj 9 aj aj aj aj aj aj aj aj Lo 3 0 0 0 0 o 44 49 4 44 4 4 2000009 Wells selected 1t ODD as source 8 5909 channels pipette 44 Garbage 100 a M S rm Figure 36 Source selection SELECTED TARGET Second select the target wells in which the pipette will dispense the liquid Wells or containers that are used as targets are circled in green Select targets Return to the hr to next previous step 9 4 aj o step aj aj aj aj aj aj aj a aj aj 6 aj aj aj aj aj MultiDispense 59 9 9 2 2 Lo to Lo Lo 2 0 2 99 QQ OOOOQOO 167670070 Garbage 100 c 60000000 Garbage 100 2 Target wells selected Figure 37 Target selection SELECTED VOLUMES AND OPTION Version 2 0 35 Date Nov 07 2011 Once target are
4. F Figure 60 Instruction for using 8 channel pipette Version 2 0 52 Date Nov 07 2011 8 8 TROUBLESHOOTING If vour workstation does not work Make sure your power outlet is plugged Make sure that the button On Off Figure 4 is on 1 Check the status of your fuse near the power switch On Off Figure 4 If the problem is the fuse here are its specifications 250V 4A Housing material ceramic Size 5x20 mm Ifthe problem persists please contact your local distributor paragraph 2 CONTACTS Version 2 0 53 Date Nov 07 2011 Gy 9 APPENDIX 9 1 PROFIL OF ASPIRATION DISPENSE OF ALPHAHELIX Vd Volume to dispense Vd 0 33V G A T Aspirating Time D T Dispense Time AXX Airgap XX Volume aliquot Vd A2 2 1 A1B D xo G2 The picture above sums up the profile of aspiration dispense carried out by the AlphaHelix pipettes The graph describes three times dispension of a solution Airgap 1 and 1b s aspiration Solution and Start Aliquot s aspiration Start Aliquot s ejection Airgap 2 s aspiration Airgap 2b s aspiration First volume of the solution dispense and Airgap 2 and 2b s ejection Airgap 2 and 2b s aspiration Second volume of the solution dispense and Airgap 2 and 2b s ejection Airgap 2 and 2b s aspiration 10 Third volume of the solution dispense and Airgap 2 and 2b s ejection 11 A
5. Pipeting Profile Manager These options allow the creation edition and deletion of liquids and pipeting profile management File Edit Tools Help Liquid Manager Pipeting Profile Manager Figure 55 Edit function Liquid manager system allows you to create edit or delete the liquids that will be handled by the workstation within the aBot software Select Liquids to add List of the existing liquid List of existing liquids List of liquids to be added vix REF vix pcr ac aurFERI 2 BUFFER BurFERA 2 4 70 B on the software Create edit or deletea liquid Ajust volume New Remove Figure 56 Liquid Manager window Version 2 0 Date Nov 07 2011 47 CREATION A NEW LIQUID There is already a list of predefined liquids in the database software If you want to create a new liquid click New A new window appears which allows you to give a name to choose a color and a type for your new liquid New Liquid Cancel Figure 57 Window for new liquid creation Name your liquid choose a color then a type for it Define Type of your liquid depending on its viscosity When you press the Advanced button a similar window to the Pipeting Profil Manage
6. Cursor relative to the total volume of Value sd Solution the solution Figure 40 Cone position in the liquid Solution You are free to change the level of the tips in the liquid For this enter directly the Value or use the button on the left of the picture Version 2 0 37 Date Nov 07 2011 Mix None Position Figure 41 Dispense parameters Target Target box e The default settings can be changed for each mixing functions e After mix after each dispenses If you choose this mode the pipette will change the cone after each dispense mix e After all mixing wells target once the action Multidispense is finite Change the pipette cone before going stir in wells target Custom if you choose this mode click then on Advanced for changing the defaults mixing parameters amp Position Bottom Go down to the bottom for dispensing Middle stay in the middle of the wells for dispensing Top remain in the upper wells for dispensing Custom click then on Advanced for changing the position of the cone relative to the liquid Position Configuration Adjusts the level of descent of the pipette relative to the total volume of container Value Eli Container Figure 42 Cone position in the liquid container Repeat the step B Add a sequence as many times as desired for a complete protocol Version 2 0 38 Date
7. In case of problem or for any information please contact your distributor AlphaHelix AlphaHelix Technologies AB Kungsangsvagen 29 SE 753 23 Uppsala SWEDEN Telephone 46 0 18 12 07 01 Fax 46 0 18 12 07 03 Email info alphahelix com Web www alphahelix com Version 2 0 5 Date Nov 07 2011 QU 3 SAFETY ADVICES 3 1 INTRODUCTION The aBot is a system that has been designed to automate setup of q PCR reactions and other low volume dispensing in the laboratory Using the system out of limits specified by AlphaHelix is at the user own risk Some elements and accessories can only be used by qualified and authorized personnel Using the system is only allowed and guaranteed when the workstation is controlled by the aBot software running under Windows Vista or Windows 7 It is of the user responsibility to contact its distributor or AlphaHelix before using its aBot robot in a way not described in the current manual 3 2 SPECIFICATIONS Dimensions Lxlxh cm 60x50x56 Weight 35 Kg Power supply 230V 50Hz 80W Motor Accuracy X Y Reproducibility X Y Interface USB Version 2 0 6 Date Nov 07 2011 3 3 ELECTRONICAL SAFETY ISSUES The user must ensure that all measures have been taken to ensure that the use of the workstation meets the requirements of performance and safety and comply with current laws regulations codes and standards The place of use of the station shou
8. Nov 07 2011 quu b Auto Mode The Auto mode has been created to improve your protocol by selecting automatically the pipette to be used and the protocol to set up to execute a given task In the Auto mode you have to define the source format you want no matter the pipettes which are connected to the workstation You have the possibility to choose a group of wells as source for one track pipette or a group of rows of wells for 8 tracks pipette But these wells have to belong to the same consumable However the format of the target will depend on the format of the source The format of the target must thus correspond to the format of the source or a multiple of there amp Ifthe amount of liquid to be dispensed into each well does not exceed the capacity of the available pipettes the pipette will change the cone each time it finishes copying the source model amp If the amount of liquid to be dispensed into each well beyond the capacity of the available pipette the number of cone depend on the volume used to dispense The pipette will change tips after 4 aspirations to ensure a good quality of pipetting The Auto mode has other specific function depending on the size of robot described below aBot robot The aBot robot is empowered with 3 axes which are 1 axe X 1 axe Y and 1 axe Z One pipette is fixed on the Z axe Thanks to the Auto mode you can ask the workstation to
9. 0 DeQquelee UCS CI ELO TN ee 43 EU 44 Choice of sequences order for protocol s procedure sss 44 e RUTIN IN e EN 45 Error message during 46 47 Liquid Manager WING OW 47 Window for new Iquid continet eo 48 Creating a new pipetting protocol 49 Figure representing a tip with pipeting profile essere rennen nnns 50 Instruction for using an 8 channel pipette esee nennen nannten 52 56 07 2011 e AlphaHelix AlphaHelix Technologies AB Kungsangsvagen 29 SE 753 23 Uppsala SWEDEN Telephone 46 0 18 12 07 01 Fax 46 0 18 12 07 03 Email info alphahelix com Web www alphahelix com
10. 07 2011 Qu 4 For having informations about a liquid well click on it A description of the liquid in in the container appears Consummable Initialisation Information about the liquid Description in the selected container Remaining Volume Used Volume Pie chart Color Name Volume representing the amount of liquid relative to the total volume of the container Clear Selection Figure 33 Description of the liquid If you want to reset the values of some wells or reservoir select the wells or the reservoir involved and then click Empty If you want to change a liquid and his volume contained in a consumable click on Init to change it Click Close once the initialization completed F Perr Figure 34 Workspace after initialization Click Validate to go to next step of creating a protocol Version 2 0 33 Date Nov 07 2011 A Initialization sequence A protocol in the aBot software is composed of different sequences of tasks Each sequence is linked to a serie of individual tasks The first sequence is defined as the Initialization This step reflects the state of the work Space the types and positions of consumables and the definition of the sources How to add a sequence When you click on Add drop down list appears In this list you can either select
11. 1 DESINFECTING SOLUTIONS DESCRIPTIONS The following solutions can be used for cleaning the robotic workstation but you need to dilute these solutions before using e Ethanol effective against most of bacteria and fungus as well as a lot of virus It is not effective against bacterial spores e Active chlorine sodium hypochlorite efficient against gram bacteria mycobacterium yeast fungus and virus It is not efficient against bacterial spores Ammonium Quaternary derivatives efficient only on Gram bacteria partial on Gram mycobacterium proteins yeast fungus and virus No effect on spores e Active oxygen effective on large range of pathogenic organisms bacteria gram amp virus and fungus 4 2 CLEANING PROCEDURES The following procedures may apply depending on the parts that one would like to clean pipette working space plate holders and consumables 1 Pipetting unit bottom part of the pipette and especially the conic support is washed and disinfected with Ethanol at 7096 solution or a 396 active chlorine solution sodium hypo chloride or ammonium quaternary derivatives or containing active oxygen Donotimmerse the whole pipette into a cleaning bath since the upper part which comprises electronic part is not removed Apply your washing solution on the pipette bottom part encircled in red on the picture Letitreact during 1 to minutes before removing remaining solution with absorbing
12. Figure 175 Saving a Hew P OLOCO den ET RUE 23 Figure 16 Window amp Sc P cb P 23 Figure 19 Save modification done on a protocol esee neret nennen 24 Figure 20 Main Ug le THO cee metre tend pH ODD 25 Figure 21 Configuration of panels nate n peres bee tado Da Rb 26 22 Panel Hardware 27 27 Figure 24 Tools and plates Selection 27 SPa 28 E 29 30 Figure 28 Creation of a WOERSDACO 30 Figure 29 Initialization of the sources on 31 Figure 30 Initialization window of your 31 Fig ure 31i Sources ITU ANZAC ON 32 Figure 32 mtialzauoror VOLUP NA GA 32 Figure 33 Description of the Cu EO NIU 33 Figure 34 Workspace after initialization esee esses eene nente t
13. OF MICROSOFT FRAMEWORK If you chose to install the Microsoft Framework a window starts at the end of the installation of the software Please follow the instructions on the screen Framework has to install for the first installation of Bot software NOTICE Generally on Windows Vista 7 Microsoft Framework is already installed Check the release is 4 0 or upper Version 2 0 20 Date Nov 07 2011 Gy 9 RUNNING THE SOFTWARE 8 1 LAUNCHING THE SOFTWARE After installing succesfully the software the following icon should be on the desktop of your computer ge Ll d Figure 10 aBot shortcut icon To open aBot software double click on it the main interface appears as the below figure Figure 11 Software s main interface FILE menu is to manage your protocol see page 24 New Project to create a new protocol Open Project to open an existing protocol Save As to save a protocol as a new file Save to save the modification of a protocol in the same file EDIT menu is to manage your liquid parameters Liquid Manager to manage solutions used in protocol Pipeting Profil Manager to manage profile of pipette These functions will be described more details in chapter 8 6 page 48 Version 2 0 21 Date Nov 07 2011 9 2 PROJECT MANAGEMENT FILE OPTIONS File Edit Tools Help New
14. Project Open Project Ctri O Save As Save Close project 2 Bat Figure 12 File function For creating opening or saving a project see the options which are describe below be New Project File Edit Tools Help Project PCH Open Project Ctri O Save As Save Close project Exit T Figure 13 Creating a new protocol Figure 14 Window New Project window appears allowing the user to enter the name of your protocol Figure 14 amp Then click on Create button to proceed to the next step Version 2 0 22 Date Nov 07 2011 On software s main screen clic File and choose Open Project Then click on Browse for finding your existing protocol After the choice of the protocol click on Open You would see the message Loading progress Afterall if the protocol is properly loaded you will see the working space you set before If nothing happened try again the two first steps Open Project a File Edit Tools Help New Project Wu Open Project Open existing project Save Close project Figure 15 Opening an existing protocol Figure 16 Opening window protocol To save your protocol clic on File button in the left head corner and choose Save As Choose a name and a directory for your protocol and clic on Save to confirm or Cancel to come back to the p
15. Tools Help NewProject HARDWARE Instructions Robotic WorkStation AlphaBot Working space ES Figure 25 Virtual working space Click Validate button to proceed to the next tab The main window of Consumables shows the working space where the user will add labwares see figure 22 A list of available consumables appears on the right hand side of the window These consumables are ranked by types amp brands for easily searching Select a consumable by clicking on the desired type microplate 96 microplate 384 tip boxes Then those available consumables of corresponding types appear in Sorted list Fig 20 Version 2 0 28 Date Nov 07 2011 Consumables BL T Information about each consumable is available as follow NV Consumable s brand Maximum volume Dead volume Figure 26 Consumables panel NOTICE All consumables are present on the software s database This database can be extended by the user s requests Version 2 0 29 Date Nov 07 2011 Arrange consumabless required for protocol s execution to the desired positions on workspace Add consumables by drag amp drop i B B E Figure 27 Workspace To create your protocol it is necessary that at least one of the following consumable is present on you
16. chosen new window appear which which will allow you to define the pipetting parameters Youre free to change those parameters By default the bottom of the tips will dive 2mm below the liquid level when aspirating Select volume to dispense Source Target Volume to dispense pL Mix Position Add the volume to dispense Options Figure 38 Pipetting parameters If the source has not enough liquid compare to the determined volume a message will ask you to complete the related source See page 44 for more detail Troubleshooting You have to fix the following parameters Source Source box Mix Before mix the source before aspirate parameters flexible Custom If you choose that mode click on Advanced to change default parameters scheme 34 amp Position e Bottom Go down to the bottom of the source to aspirate e Middle Go in the middle of the source e Custom Click on Advanced to change the position scheme 35 ADVANCED OPTIONS Version 2 0 36 Date Nov 07 2011 Mix Configuration 1 Volume to aspire for mixing 2 Speed of Aspiration Dispense When Volume 3 Number of Aspiration Dispense Speed Round Trip 4 Cone position in the liquid Offset Click the button to show or hide the image on the right Figure 39 Defaults mixtures Position Configuration Adjusts the level of descent of the pipette
17. launch a model duplication in one click instead of doing it well by well or row by row if it is an 8 tracks pipette under the manual mode To do so follow the steps as you would do under the manual mode but when you get to the sequence creation step choose Auto There you are able to select the sources the target and the volume to dispense Version 2 0 39 Date Nov 07 2011 QU In this part some examples are given for explain specificity of the Auto mode when you choose sources and targets wells 1 Multichannel pipettes 8 channels Some duplications models with the 8 channels pipette are described below Example 1 96 tips used m c s 7 Source Target Figure 43 Model duplication Example 1 Duplication of a 96 well microplate to another 96 well microplate amp Example 2 64 tips used i 16161616 a il H H Li H a 1 Es Es i AT Source Target Figure 44 Model duplication Example 2 Duplication of part of a 96 well microplate to another 96 well microplate Version 2 0 40 Date Nov 07 2011 Example 3 96 tips used Source Target Figure 45 Model duplication Example 3 Duplication of 96 well microplate to a 384 well microplate 2 Single channel pipette Example 1 5 tips used
18. paper 2 Working base is first cleaned amp disinfected with water then with Ethanol at 7090 solution or a 396 active chlorine solution sodium hypo chloride or ammonium quaternary derivatives or containing active oxygen amp Clean and rinse your working base with water amp Apply cleaning solution on it amp Let it react during 1 to 3 minutes before removing remaining solution with absorbing paper 3 Tip box holder as for working base tip box holder can be cleaned and disinfected through the same initial working base procedure Version 2 0 11 Date Nov 07 2011 4 Consumables please look technical data delivered by related suppliers WARNING e Protected Gloves amp glasses have to be used during cleaning operations to avoid any cleaning solution contacts and projections e During cleaning operations rub is recommended to remove all bacteria bio films e If organic components are used wood serum expectoration active chlorine is not recommended Version 2 0 12 07 2011 Gy 5 HANDLING 5 1 UNPACKING PROCEDURE OF THE PRIMARWS To move the aBot it is essential to having to 2 persons holding the machine XY WARNING Never hold the machine by the bridge Any mishandling of aBot may cause irreversible damage 1 Get the robot out of the box lift the robot by the bottom not by the bridge 3 Cut cable tie which immobiliz
19. sequence In this example a single channel was used range 50 uL Version 2 0 43 Date Nov 07 2011 Gy 2 DELETE A SEQUENCE You can only delete the last protocol sequence see the example below In the example below you can t delete the sequence 5 if you don t delete first the sequences 7 and 6 Protocole Setting Instructions Select action to add to your current project Type LiquidHandling Action MultiDispense Steps Step Number 3 Step Name MultiDispense Volume Used Tool Used ETT bunjsssewpien Sequence you want Step Number 4 Step Name MultiDispense Volume Used 10 Tool Used to change Step Number Step Name MultiDispense Volume Used 10 Tool Used Step Number Sequences to clear Step Name Volume Used Tool Used Step Number Step Name Volume Used Tool Used MultiDispense 200 P1V50 MultiDispense 200 Delete L P1V50 before Figure 51 Clearing a sequence 3 SEQUENCE ORDER When you create a protocol you do not have to start this protocol by the first sequence or end with the last sequence of your protocol So you can skip the steps already done Choice of the ending sequence Choice of the beginning sequence Sequence that will not happen Shep Number Step Volume Used Figure 52 Ch
20. the components you don t want to install Click Next to continue 5 Description Select components to install Position your mouse over component to see its description V Shortcuts v Drivers Framework 4 0 interr Space required 67 6MB Nullsoft Install System v2 45 Figure 7 Choice of components 5 AlphaBot Choose Install Location Choose the folder in which to install AlphaBot Setup will install AlphaBot in the Following Folder To install in a different Folder click Browse and select another Folder Click Install to start the installation Destination Folder Space required 67 6MB Space available 13 1GB Nullsoft Install System v2 45 lt Back Install Figure 8 Installation path WARNING Use default value C abot as the installation path Version 2 0 Date Nov 07 2011 19 7 1 DRIVERS INSTALLATION If you chose to install drivers you can see following installation window Please follow instructions on the screen Drivers have to be installed for the first installation of aBot software Welcome to the InstallShield Wizard for Silicon Laboratories CP210x CP Drivers for Windows 7 5 40 24 The InstallShield Wizard will copy Silicon Laboratories CP210x VCP Drivers for Windows 7 v5 40 24 onto your computer To continue click Next Figure 9 Drivers installation window 7 2 INSTALLATION
21. the safety rules for handling this solution C Manipulation Hazard Injury Z axis moves can cause injuries as soon as a protocol is running amp Ensure that no one access the working space when the workstation is running amp Before accessing the working space stop the system via the software and wait for the axis to reach loading position amp If any problem occurs use the On Off switch to turn off the power supply ensure a Safe access to the workstation Do not touch any part of the workstation marked with the crossed hand pictogram when power is turn on and the machine is powered Hazardous substances contact Healthy problems or burning trauma can be initiated by chemical or biological substances To prevent any healthy risk please follow the recommendations Respect the security constraints specified by the manufacturer of the solutions used Use the well adapted protective wearing for these specific substances Follow the washing amp de contamination program then ensure that the hygiene standards are well respected D Warning pictograms To inform on potential risks with particular parts of the equipment some pictograms are included on PrimaRW34 Pictogram informs about a security risk Please report to the safety information list to know what type of specific risk is concerned Do not touch Version 2 0 10 Date Nov 07 2011 4 WEEKLY MAINTENANCE 4
22. tnn toten ni 14 D SET IP DE ROBOT uium ern eet eer ee EIE ERI MEME 15 6 1 REQUIREMENT AND SAFE 15 Ost DELIVERY PACKAGE a 15 6 3 SETTING UP THE aBot ROBOT AND THE COMPUTER 16 6 3 1 DESCRIPTION OF THE WORKSTATION 25 16 QUIM M N 17 6 3 3 TURN OFF THE ROBOT AT END OE USE 17 6 3 4 ADVICE BEFORE INSTALLATION OF 18 7 INSTALLATION OF THE ROBOT SOFTWARE irrita nic tc 19 des DRIVERS IAE 20 7 2 INSTALLATION OF MICROSOFT 20 D BUN NING THE SOFTWAR E EM Near 21 LAUNCHING THE SOFTWARE E 21 9 2 PROJECT MANAGEMENT FILE OPTIONS rennen nennen 22 CREATE A NEW FROJE 22 Version 2 0 2 Date Nov 07 2011 O 2 2 UP ENINGAN BAIS TING PRO POCO Mo 23 DA ANV EA NEVV PROTOCOL 23 8 2 4 SAVE NEW SETTINGS OF A 24 8 3 OVERVIEW OF THE SOFWARE S MAIN INTERFACE eere 25
23. 8 o5 s 999990900099 9566000000000 5666006000000 444 44 59999992999 LO 1335533355553 e AQOQOOQOOQQQOQG 2 Garbage 100 ail Garbage 100 Garbage 100 Start Stop button Figure 53 Running window Version 2 0 45 Date Nov 07 2011 Initialisation failed Please try again Figure 54 Error message during the running WARNING the message of figure 48 appears when you click on Play it means that e The aBot is not connected the PC check the USB connection The aBot is not On in this case check the power cord is properly plugged in or the On Off of figure 4 is to 1 Or there is a technical problem in that case please contact AlphaHelix as explained in the chapter 2 Contacts PROTOCOL RE LAUNCHING Ifyou want to do the same protocol again as soon as you click on the button Play the following message appears Please Check Your Tips Box In that case check if all the tips boxes on your space work are well filled amp Think to check again if your virtual space work matches to your real space work Version 2 0 46 Date Nov 07 2011 9 6 EDIT FUNCTION The Edit tab contains 2 features Liquid Manager
24. Do SOT WAT 26 Do USE DEI SOTT WARE caisses utm 26 8 5 1 TOOLS MANAGEMENT HARDWARE SETTINGS eese nennen nnns 26 8 5 2 LABWARE MANAGEMENT CONSUMABLES reete nenn nnne nenas 20 8 5 3 PROTOCOL MANAGEMENT SEQUENCES 34 8 5 4 PROTOCOL VALIDATION AND RUNNING STAGE 45 OO EPIT PUNG TION E 47 C 47 49 BT ADVICE 52 8 7 1 MULTICHANNELS 8 CHANNELS PIPETTE 52 DOO ert ME 53 PAP 54 9 1 PROFIL OF ASPIRATION DISPENSE 54 Version 2 0 3 07 2011 FOREWORD This document describes how to use the aBot dispensing robot in its PCR configuration We thank you for having choosen AlphaHelix products and hope that it will satify you fully in automating your dispensing If you have any comments don t hesitate to communicate with us info alphahelix com An aBot dispensing robot is a versatile plateform that can carry different accessories depending on the protocol the user wants to automatise In the PCR s
25. connection with the robot 6 3 4 1 RECOMMENDED CONFIGURATION Hardware configuration amp Processor clocked at 2 5 GHz amp memory 3 Go amp Free disk space 200 Mo Graphic 512 Software configuration Operating system Windows Vista Windows 7 32 or 64 bit 6 3 4 2 INSTALLATION OF SOFTWARE In order to ease your use of aBot software it is already installed on the provided computer In this case the software is ready to use Version 2 0 18 Date Nov 07 2011 Gy 7 INSTALLATION OF THE ROBOT SOFTWARE The installation of the software is done from SetupAlphaBotvxxxxxx exe Note x86 is 32 bit x64 is 64 bit version Please accept all permissions during installation At any time you can abort the installation by clicking Cancel To start the installation double click the installation file Then follow the instructions on the screen Extraction installation files for AlphaBot software Extraction de img schem cs Extraction de img schem cs Cone250 png Extraction de img schem cs CoolPortoir FastPlate png Extraction de img sschem cs CoolPortoir 25 png Extraction de img schem cs CoolPortoir B png Extraction de img schem cs CoolPortoirl 5 Extraction de img schem cs D eepwell96 png Extraction de img schem cs Deepwell96_PCR png Extraction de img sschem cs Microplaque384 V 4T T png Extraction de img schem cs Microplaque384 png Extracti
26. e the Y axis 4 Fixthe two rear feet of the workstation 5 Set machine according to protocol Version 2 0 13 Date Nov 07 2011 The transport of aBot must be in the box provided for that purpose delivered with machine 5 2 PREPARING THE ROBOT FOR TRANSPORT Do not under any circumstances carry the machine in a vehicle without this box After any movement it is necessary to realign the machine It should also go through an adjustment phase These points must be performed by qualified personnel AlphaHelix Version 2 0 14 Date Nov 07 2011 T 6 SET UP OF THE ROBOT The following part is describing the aBot installation for which 2 parts are defined amp Hardware setup robotic workstation and accessories aBot software and drivers This part is related to the system set up How to connect each unit to the robotic workstation amp How to install the software 6 1 REQUIREMENT AND SAFETY The lab bench where the aBot robot will be installed has to be large enough to receive the workstation and its computer For the aBot it would need 1 10x0 50 in space and 68 cm high Then the environment has to respect the following conditions Working Temperature between 15 C and 30 amp Enough aeration and ventilation to remove the heat generated by the workstation 6 2 DELIVERY PACKAGE The aBot robotic platform conditioning has been developed to enure its physical and fu
27. erne tite tatnen tnter teens 33 Figure 35 Choosing the FIPHETOO suci 34 95 BOULE SELBE O nane ema EU A HUE MS as MEDI E 35 ooo D A 35 Pureo a FOCUS 5 36 Figure 39 Defaults 37 Figure 40 Cone position in the liquid Solution seen nennen tnnt 37 lipure4r Dispense 38 Figure 42 Cone position in liquid container eese netten nnne nennen 38 Figure 43 Model auplication Example Leni 40 Figure 44 Model duplication Example 40 190re5 Model duplication EXarmplg R 41 F16 resp5 Model duplication EXAmple 41 Figure 47 Model duplication Example 5 eee eese eene ne nennen tete ne tnter rant ntn ns 42 Figure 48 Source volume adjustment eese entente RAR RAR ARR ttn tote teinte teni 42 Figure 49 Real time monitoring of your virtual workspace esee nennen 43 Version 2 0 55 Date Nov 07 2011 Figure 50 Figure 51 Figure 52 Figure 53 Figure 54 Figure 55 Figure 56 Figure 57 Figure 58 Figure 59 Figure 60 Version 2
28. etup configuration the aBot dispensing robot consists of A cartesian XYZ workstation base carrying one Z axis amp several pipetting modules exchangeable Furthermore aBot dispensing robot is provided in standard with a working space of 9 SBS positions as well as computer running the aBot software amp power cable A USB cable aBot User s manual Copyright 2011 rights reserved Unauthorized reproduction forbidden Version 2 0 4 Date Nov 07 2011 1 FEW WORD ABOUT ALPHAHELIX TECHNOLOGIES AlphaHelix is an innovative company that develops on its own and in cooperation with OEM partners products in the PCR field for research and diagnostic laboratories In 2011 AlphaHelix launched an ultra fast and uniquely specific PCR instrument aAmp and the aBot dispensing robot The aBot dispensing robot makes setting up PCR reactions easy and eliminates ergonomic problems in the laboratories AlphaHelix is continuesly improving functions and adding more accessories At the same time AlphaHelix also offers customized products for OEM partners around the world Hence Alphahelix is interested to get feedback from the users and also is interested in developing partnerships with other Do not hesitate to contact us at info alphahelix com 2 CONTACTS This device was installed by your local distributor Distributor informations
29. highly reactive substances amp not use the device for handling substances that could create an explosive atmosphere Electronic hazard amp only personnel authorized by AlphaHelix is able to open the device to perform maintenance or repair AlphaHelix staff only can dismantle the machine for maintenance Never use a damaged device Never turn on the machine if the power cable is damaged Connect the machine to a power point in compliance with current legislation and respect technical specifications of the workstation B Warnings Comfort For user convenience place the machine on a lab bench between 70 cm to 100cm high UV Lightning amp Avoid any UV source near the machine for a long period E Heat Do not place the device near a heating source amp Do not expose it to excessive sun light amp Allow a gap of 10 cm minimum security around the workstation Vibrations amp Avoid working support where vibrations can occur mixer centrifuge Residues amp Garbage can contain inflammable or infectious residues after tips ejection Treat these wastes in compliance with current legislation Version 2 0 9 Date Nov 07 2011 Contamination Decontaminate workstation and devices before reuse Spills amp Ifalarge quantity of liquid is spilled shut off the power and unplug the power cable up the spill taking care to observe
30. ing liquids that having a viscosity other than that of water Airgap 1 Airgap 1 b Start Aliquot Dispense solution End Aliquot Airgap 2 Figure 59 Figure representing with pipeting profile Version 2 0 50 Date Nov 07 2011 You can save new pipetting protocols by clicking Save in File menu then confirm by clicking OK You would find the AlphaHelix aspiration dispense profile in the appendices C DELETION OF A PIPETING PROFIL OR CANCEL CHANGES To erase a pipetting protocol choose the one you want to erase the list then click on Delete To cancel changes click on Cancel WARNING When you erase a pipetting protocol all the liquids you associate with this pipetting protocol will be change with standard protocol Version 2 0 51 Date Nov 07 2011 8 7 ADVICES There are several instructions to respect when using the aBot software During aspiration the software makes calculations to always go down to 2mm depth in the liquid Therefore when using a multichannel pipette 8 channels the amount of liquid in the wells will always be dispensed in the same way And even if the wells where the pipette aspires containing different liquids 000000000000 6000000 300800 4 44 33333333339 20222292022 999 1000000 2000000000000 44 4 44 4 4 4 4 4 d 444444444 50500000000 Ms YES NO
31. irgap 1 s ejection 12 Airgap 3 s aspiration Version 2 0 54 Date Nov 07 2011 Table of figures Figure 1 Left view of the aBot robot eese nennen tente tenente tenen tete 16 Figure 2 Front view of the aBot EU 16 Figures Topview ol cniin Rb 16 O m 17 PV WUT Se re d bo SA 0n M 19 IJSure 5 InstalldtroH VV HOO E 19 Peor 7 19 Piz re o Installation t in E 19 Figure 9 Drivers installation 20 Figure TO 21 Figure 11 Software s main interface 21 Fip re 22 heure Io Creatine a mew 22 Figure 14 Window NEW Project 22 Figure 15 Opening an existing protOCO 23 Figure 16 Opening window 23
32. l AlphaHelix responsibility whatever the consequences of any nature are Any modification of the robot by the user in particular electric system or electronic cards is strictly forbidden and warranty uncovered Before cleaning up the machine unplug the power wire Unplugging wires as the computer and the machine are switched on is not recommended Beware of hot spots that can appear on the machine during the working aBot and the computer on which aBot software is installed are not protected against voltage fluctuations or spikes Therefore all devices can be damaged by spikes or brutal power cuts amp Current micro cuts can also involve information loss especially concerning aBot Version 2 0 7 Date Nov 07 2011 3 4 CONTEXT OF USE AND USER SAFETY This material might be used in research development or industrial laboratories as well as educational institutes The area of application includes life sciences biotechnologies chemistry cosmetology and pharmacology aBot robot must be used in a clean working environment Check Cleaning section for further information aBot robot conforms to basic requirements of CE directives and declaration of conformity norms 2004 108 CE 2006 95 CE 2006 42 CE aBot robot might be used only by qualified staff and for professional use Anyone manipulating samples has to wear appropriate protections gloves clothes and to adopt appropriate behavior Fo
33. ld be selected according to the conditions of a research laboratory and does not compromise the functioning of the device Before plugging in aBot and turning it on PLEASE CAREFULLY READ THE FOLLOWING INSTRUCTIONS amp The installation and use of this material must match current norms in analysis laboratory research ones The robot must be connected with an electrical installation in compliance with the standards aBot must not be placed near water sources or under rain amp must lie solid support lab bench from 70 to 100 cm high amp Before starting the machine check the power wire the connectors poor condition of connectors due to contacts oxidation can imply sparks or fire starts amp case of electrical problem call authorized personnel only AlphaHelix or approved distributors amp When plugging in or out the power wire electric arcs or sparks can occur consequently the aBot must be installed in a non explosive atmosphere Avoid any danger of electrocution use a ground connected power point It is strictly forbidden to cut any ground wire on the machine for user safety amp The power point must be proportionate to the machine supply thus 230 Volts 3A and must be protected by appropriate device fuse and automatic switch Avoid additional wires and extension cords Any dismantling of the machine by the user will cause immediate warranty loss and cance
34. manually your pipette s or the Auto mode This mode chooses the most appropriate pipette required for the sequence a Manual mode Each serie of tasks is defined by adding a sequence For this make sure that the Type of task is Liquid Handling Choose then the action of the sequence Multi dispense A listing appears when you click on Add allowing you to choose the right pipette for the selected task select tool for new sequence Tools PiV50 Figure 35 Choosing right tool If you choose manual mode you can select sources and targets in relation to the available pipette amp Ifthe chosen or available pipette is a single channel you can only choose one well as the source and one or several wells for dispense amp Incase of 8 channels itis the same with a row of 8 amp After choice of the tool click on A window appears leading you for the different steps to achieve The lower part of the window indicates the kind of task The upper part leads you for the following events SELECTED SOURCE Version 2 0 34 Date Nov 07 2011 First you have to choose source where pipette will aspirate Then click on arrow for the next step The wells or tubes selected as sources are underlined in red Go to next step G aj aj 9 9 j 4
35. nagement Protocolel Start Aliquot End Aliquot Airgap 1 16 Delay Aspiration Airgap 2 Delay Dispense 2b Speed Aspiration Airgap 3 Speed Dispense Cancel Figure 58 Creating a new pipetting protocol window Version 2 0 49 Date Nov 07 2011 P won B DESCRIPTION OF FEATURES Type you can choose protocol s type corresponding to a pipette Different volume range amp 10 uL pipette amp 50 uL pipette E 250 uL pipette 1000 uL pipette Airgap the unit is the uL it corresponds to air s volume that would be aspired on the tip amp Airgap 1 Allows to eject the last drop contained on tip amp Airgap 2 Avoids drops falling during workstationic arm movements Airgap 1b and Airgap 2b Modify depending viscosity amp Airgap 3 Avoids lost of End Aliquot Aliquot the unit is uL Start Aliquot Increases the quality of multidispense End Aliquot Amount of reserve s liquid to have greater security when dispense E Delay Aspiration Dispense the unit is the ms these values allow to control the aspiration delay It is important when using liquids having a viscosity other than that of water It is the delay between each aspiration dispense Speed Aspiration Dispense the unit is UA 1 is the slower speed and 6 the faster This value is important when us
36. nctional integrity during transportation storage and handling The following components are delivered with the aBot robot Robot workstation Deck 9 places SBS Pipetting unit Optional computer and its power aBot software on USB flash memory Version 2 0 15 Date Nov 07 2011 6 3 SETTING UP THE aBot ROBOT AND THE COMPUTER Version 2 0 Date Nov 07 2011 Figure 3 Top view of the aBot Figure 2 Front view of the aBot robot Modules support Workstationic arm USB port 16 WARNING Always place switch on Stop or 0 position before workstation connection to the power in order to protect the machine from electrical chocks Start the aBot robot amp Check ifthe robot is connected to the outlet Turn on the computer Turn on the workstationic workstation using the On Off switch located on the left side of the device Power cable port Figure 4 On Off Switch amp Plugin the computer to the workstation with USB cable If you have to disassemble the workstation follow these steps Check the arm is stopped and in home position Turn off the robot Plug out USB cable between the computer and the workstation Plug out power cord Put the protective sheet provided with the machine on the tray Version 2 0 17 Date Nov 07 2011 Before installing aBot software check all connections 6 3 2 The installation can be done without
37. oice of the sequences order for the protocol s procedure Version 2 0 44 Date Nov 07 2011 After clicking Validate on panel Sequences software skips to panel Running Click on Check to verify the consistance of all sequences At that step the software will check if the requested protocol is feasible If so the buttons Play Stop appear at the bottom of the work space if not you will get an error message figure 48 After the Play Stop buttons have appeared you can launch the execution of the protocol WARNING Before launching the protocol check the state of the consumables especially the tips boxes Select to clear add tips After clicking on the button Play it becomes a Pause button so you can stop the protocol whenever you want Clicking on the Pause button makes it become a button Play again To stop a protocol click on the button Stop Then the pipettes come back to the initial position after having ejected the tips 9 9 9 0 D D D 8 0 0 0 D D 8 8 8 o 0 D D Pj 9 0 P ie a ood cdc
38. on de img schem cs Microplaque96 png Extraction de imgschem cs MicroplaqueSB png Extraction de img schem cs Pixodock png F xtraction de img schem cs Platel 6SBS pra Dossier de destination Progression de l installation Figure 5 Extracting window S AlphaBot Welcome to the AlphaBot Setup Wizard This wizard will quide you through the installation of AlphaBot It is recommended that you close all other applications before starting Setup This will make it possible to update relevant system Files without having to reboot your computer Click Next to continue Figure 6 Installation window Then choose the components to install on your computer among following amp Shortcuts creation of a shortcut on your desktop to ease the access to the software amp Drivers installation of required drivers to control the workstation and its tools This option is only required for the first installation Refer to the section Installation of drivers 7 1 Framework 4 0 installation of library s classes required for the running of the software This option is only required for the first installation Refer to the section Installation of Microsoft Framework 7 2 Click Next to go to the next step 5 AlphaBot Choose Components IX Choose which features of AlphaBot you want to install Check the components you want to install and uncheck
39. r window appears which allows you to assign a specific pipetting mode to the new liquid To validate your creation press OK or Cancel to cancel EDITION OF A LIQUID Select the liquid that you want to edit by clicking on then click Modify A similar window to the figure 56 window appears Follow the same instructions to edit the selected liquid C DELETION OF A LIQUID If you want to remove a liquid from your list click on the target liquid and press Remove Your liquid will be removed from the list WARNING Be sure that the liquid that you want to remove is not used in another protocol Version 2 0 48 Date Nov 07 2011 This feature allows you to edit or delete pipeting profil The Standard protocol is a predefined protocol set by default This pipetting mode is suitable for pipetting liquid with viscosity approaching water s viscosity WARNING Standard protocol is not editable On this window you would be able to edit some parameters See details on page 55 amp Airgap 1 2 3 Aliquot Start End Delay Aspiration Dispense Speed Aspiration Dispense These features must be editing depending physical characteristics like viscosity volatility etc A CREATION OF A NEW PIPETTING PROFIL To create a new pipetting protocol clicK on New in the File menu Name your pipetting protocol All features are set at default values Pipeting profile ma
40. r instance do not hamper axis moves The Z axis of the workstation can exert a 15kg force during tips taking As the workstation is moving do not stand near the working space Ensure that no one does In case of accident if necessary amp Turn the station off by pressing the switch On Off figure 4 amp If needed call for rescue and bring first aid treatments Any incident or defect recorded as well as presumed must be reported to AlphaHelix or your distributor if disturbing the good working state of the workstation User has to ensure that all terms of use installation and working in this guide have been followed As for any collective equipment the good working state of the automat depends on the care of the users Any damage due to mishandling will be repaired at the expense of the user aBot has to be cleaned up and inspected periodically and efficiently Version 2 0 8 07 2011 3 5 SAFETY Important before using robotic workstation please read carefully user s guide all safety instructions to avoid incidents and accidents A Hazard Support Because of moving parts the machine the workstation must lie on a rigid and stable surface like laboratory lab bench amp The support has to be horizontal Explosion hasards Do not use the workstation within an explosive atmosphere amp Do not use machine to manipulate explosive radioactive or
41. r workspace amp Tip box amp Trash Microplate Deepwell or and Tube holders 2 WARNING Always think to use compatible tip with your pipettes Example tip of 10 uL with pipette of 10 uL 2 WARNING If you choose a ReservoirStandard as source you ll have to add a Deepwell microplate or rack type consumable on your workspace n If you place the cursor over of the workspace a B B message indicating the consumable to will m Recent 7 appear to guide you m JE Figure 28 Creation of a workspace Version 2 0 30 Date Nov 07 2011 Gy You can modify position of any consumable by simply slip deposit You can remove it as well by right click on the consumable then Delete WARNING Always respect positions alocated with your consumable on your real workspace when you configure your virtual workspace Once all the consumables are in place it is necessary to initialize the liquids levels contained in your containers To do this right click on the container which is the source then Initialization mmm Figure 29 Initialization of the sources on workspace A window opens representing this container and the list of the liquids to be added figure 24 Select the wells in which you want to define assource and then click on Init List of existing solution
42. rking space is shown In the first tab you can select your workstationic workstation your working space and also the different pipettes which are available on your workstation Version 2 0 26 Date Nov 07 2011 Hardware Settings Instructions Add tools and plate for your project Robotic WorkStation Choose WKS Figure 22 Panel Hardware Setting 1 Select the of aBot workstation in the list box normally default _ Robotic WorkStation Figure 23 Workstation s selection 2 Select the tool pipetting head P1V250 P8V250 by clicking on Tools Figure 18 Each pipette is indicated by its number of channel and its nominal volume For example P1V50 means Pipette 1 channel and Volume 50 3 Select the working space 9 SBS plates only one choice for the generic aBot by clicking on Plate button You can have more choices here depending on how your robot is equipped Version 2 0 Select the tools by clicking on this icon Tool Selection J 1 250 Type IPipette Name PiV250 Specification Associated Single channel pipette 1 250 1 Select the working Figure 24 Tools and plates selection space by clicking on this icon 27 Date Nov 07 2011 After selecting tools and working surface the virtual working space appears as below 2 AlphaBot File Edit
43. rotocol setting Save As Project PCR File Edit Tools New Project Open Project M Save Save a Project in new file NES Cancel Save Ge Close project M Figure 17 Saving a new protocol Figure 18 Window Save As Version 2 0 23 Date Nov 07 2011 When modifications had been done you can save it Click on File then Save to save changes on your protocol Your changes are saved after the Saving in progress message disappears You can also save your protocol by closing the protocol s tab A message appears Click on Yes to save changes No to ignore changes and Cancel to come back to your protocol Edit Took New Project Open Project Cleo Figure 19 Save modification done on a protocol Version 2 0 24 Date Nov 07 2011 8 3 OVERVIEW OF THE SOFWARE S MAIN INTERFACE POR Zoom Rotate Instructions to follow Summary Instructions steps to execute p Available pipettes wxrjxce Figure 20 Main interface Y 1 Working space shows your virtual working space 2 Control panel is used to create and manage all protocol s steps Modifying the working space s views You have tree cursors for modifying your working space s views Lines NNNM A Zoom in out
44. s in the database of the software Indication concerning remaining and used volume Selection of the sources then click on Init Figure 30 Initialization window of your container Version 2 0 31 Date Nov 07 2011 d You can then choose the liquid in the database For each liquid you can choose the name color and type using the Modify button for details see the section Edit page 48 You can also add new liquid using the New button When this liquid is added it will be saved in the data base and will appear in your list Select Liquids to add Arrows to add or remove a liquid in your container List of existing liquids List of liquids to be added Button to create modify or Use these button to change the amount of liquid once set remove any liquid in your list Figure 31 Sources initialization Choose the liquid in the list and click the green arrow to add it to your container and then enter the volume contained in the selected well expressed as microliter uL for plates or as milliliters mL for tube Select Volume To Added Volume added to the container Volume To Add uL Remaining Volume 200 uL Volume remaining in the container Figure 32 Initialization of volume NOTICE The amount of liquid relative to the capacity of wells is represented by a pie chart Version 2 0 32
45. ustment 1 Clicking on No you stop the creation of the sequence 2 Clicking on Yes the window shown in Figure 25 appears You can then adjust the volume with button Version 2 0 42 Date Nov 07 2011 d You can follow in real time the status of your consumables for each sequence by clicking on the REAL TIME MONITORING OF YOUR VIRTUAL WORKSPACE sequence 9 You see cone still in the box of See FSGS GPRS REA ES ES HESE PEPE eee PEUTFE UTPEETFEETT EHTEHSHE ERGERBRPERAGERRGERERRERHGAEHGAE Br BRE RR RSA ES Esika BHTEBITRHEFRRETEETEHZRERE The percentage represents the volume available in the trash Figure 49 Real time monitoring of your virtual workspace SEQUENCE MANAGEMENT 1 DESCRIPTION OF SEQUENCE TAB When you ve finished creating your protocol on the right hand of the window you can see informations about the sequences that you had created Step Number 2 Step MultiDispense Volume Used 20 Tool Used P1V50 Figure 50 Sequence description amp Step Number Order of the sequence in the protocol Step Dispense mode of the sequence Volume Used Volume dispense during the sequence Tool Used Tool used during the
46. working space NES B Resize the working space C Rotate the working space suggested position Version 2 0 25 Date Nov 07 2011 The software was created to simplify highest steps of creating a protocol In just few clicks you can generate a new protocol 8 4 SOFWARE PHILOSOPHY On the right of this figure you have the control panel and center the contents of each tab Hardware Settings m Add tools and plate for your project Tabs Robotic WorkStation rade Sequence Running Information on Choose WKS 3 Settings acte to take 5 Consumables Figure 21 Configuration of panels Validate button Each tab allows configuring a specific step in the creation of a protocol Click Validate button to proceed to next step The HardwareSetting tab manages the choice of the workstationic workstation the pipettes and the type of tray Consumables tab manages the consumables that will be used in the protocol Tip Box microplates amp The Sequence tab is used to manage the operations that will take place in the protocol The Running tab verifies the feasibility of the protocol and run it 8 5 USE OF aBot SOFTWARE Create a new protocol as describe in page 25 In the following parts you have all the steps that the user will be do for creating a new protocol The software shows the main interface where a virtual wo
Download Pdf Manuals
Related Search