Columbus Washer Manual Eng

OEM Operating Manual for
Columbus Washer
Document Part No. 1109 005

August 1998
Document revision : 1.2
Firmware level: 3.x
Table of Contents
1. General
1.1 Introduction 1-1
1.2 Instrument Specifications 1-2
1.3 Instrument Description 1-4
1.3i Rear Panel Connections 1-4
1.3H Connection Diagram 1- 5
1.3iii Instrument Options 1 -6
1.3iv Liquid System Diagram 1- 7
1.4 Instrument Software Features 1-8
1.4i Software Menus 1- 8
1.5 Washing Sequence Modes 1-9
7.5/ Washing Modes 1 -9
1.5H Aspirating Positions 1 -10
1.6 Rinse Modes 1-10
2. Installation Procedure
2.1 Unpacking and Inspection 2-1
2.2 Unpacking Procedure 2-2
2.3 Power Requirements 2-2
2.4 Installation Procedure 2-3
2.4i Connecting the Waste Tubing 2 -3
2.4/7 Fitting the Manifold 2-4
2.4iii Fitting the Plate Support 2-6
2.4iv Connecting the Solution Tubes 2 -6
2.4v Fitting and Connecting the Liquid Sensors (Optional) 2-7
2.4vi Connecting the Barcode Reader (Optional) 2 -8
2.4vii Connecting the Printer (Optional) 2 -8
2.4viii Power Connections 2 -8
3. Operating Instructions
3.1 Switching the Instrument On 3-1
3.2 Mode Selection Menu 3-2
3.3 Priming Procedure 3-3
3.4 Operating Instructions 3-4
Procedure to Wash Individually Selected Strips 3 -4
Instrument with Printer and Barcode Options 3-5
Fill Verification Option 3-6
Drip Mode Option (Cell Wash) 3-8
3.5 Error Messages 3-9
3.5i Standard Instrument 3-9
3.5ii Instrument with Liquid Sensors (Optional) 3-10
3.5iii Instrument Fitted with Printer (Optional) 3-11
3.5iv Instrument Fitted with Manifold Detect Sensors (Optional).... 3 - 11
3.5v Instrument Fitted with Fill Verification (Optional) 3 - 11
3.6 End of Working 3 -13
Instrument Left Switched On 3-13
Switching the Instrument Off 3-13
0-2 Columbus OEM Operating Manual

4. Programming Procedure
4.1 Introduction 4 -1
4.2 Procedure for Defining a New Program 4-2
4.21 Process Step: Aspirate 4-3
4.2H Process Step: Wash 4-3
4.2iii Process Step: Dispense 4 -4
4.2iv Process Step: Soak 4-4
4.2v Process Step: END 4-5
4.3 Editing a Defined Program 4-6
4.3i Changing the Type of Defined Process Step 4-6
4.3H End Programming Procedure 4-6
4.4 Show Program 4-7
4.5 Clear Program 4-8
5. Adjust Menu
5.2 Plate Type 5-3
5.2i Round Bottom Plates 5-3
5.2H Flat Bottom Plates 5-4
5.2iii Movement Diagrams 5-5
5.3 Adjust Liquid Sensors (Optional) 5-6
6. Cleaning and Maintenance

6.1 Manifold Removal 6 -1
6.H Manifold Cleaning 6-2
6.1 ii Exchanging the Manifolds 6-2
6.2 Replacing the Mains Fuses 6-3
6.3 Cleaning Procedures 6-4
6.3i Daily Cleaning 6-4
6.3H Monthly Cleaning 6-4
6.4 Rinse Modes ...6 - 4
6.4i Rinse: Soak 6-5
6.411 Rinse: Day 6-6
6.4iii Rinse: Night 6- 7
6.4b/ Rinse: Auto 6- 7
6.5 Instrument Disinfection 6-8
6.5i Disinfection Procedure 6-8
7. Service Menu
7.2 Skip Messages 7-3
Duration Test 7-4
Function Test 7-4
Select Options 7-4
Adjust Dispensing Pump 7-4
Adj. Prime Pos 7-4
Adj. Plate Ref 7-4
Columbus OEM Operating Manual 0-3

1. General
1. General
1.1 Introduction
This instrument is a microprocessor controlled washer, designed to wash
microplates.
The instrument can be fitted with either an 8,12 or 16 way manifold which are
fitted with one aspirating and one dispensing needle per well.
The instrument can use up to nine software user-defined plate types that control
the dispensing and aspirating positions for round or flat bottomed plates.
The dispensing and aspirating speeds can be selected from five set speeds and
for dispensing a dropwise speed can be used.
These features allow the instrument to be used for all washing applications
including Cell Washing applications.
Important
STOP If the instructions given in this manual are not correctly performed, the
instrument may be damaged or the procedure may not be correctly
performed and the safety of the instrument cannot be guaranteed.
Columbus OEM Operating Manual 1 -1

1. General
1.2 Instrument Specifications

The table below lists the physical specifications for the instrument. All
specifications listed below are based on the following instrument settings:
Dispensing speed: 3
Aspirating rate: 5
PARAMETERS CHARACTERISTICS
General
Display unit Liquid Crystal Display with two rows of sixteen digits
Keyboard four key membrane keyboard
Number of dispensing up to four channels
channels
Manifold types 8,12, or 16 way
Variable
Volume of solution 50 - 3000 ul in 50 ul steps for washing
dispensed (50 - 400 ul if 'Dispense rate: drip' is selected)
50 - 400 ul in 50 ul steps for dispensing
Dispensing accuracy CV: <= 4% over the plate (300\i\ dispensing volume,
dispensing rate: 3)
Residual volume crosswise aspiration: <=2 ul per well
single aspiration - cell wash manifold: <= 5 ul per well
(Asp. rate 5, Asp. time 4 sec, Asp. speed 10mm/sec)
Interface All connected devices must be approved and listed as
per EN 60950, UL 1950 or CSA C22.2 No. 950 for Data
Processing Devices.
Serial RS 232 C 9600 Baud (fixed)
Power
Supply Auto sensing for the settings
100 -120 volt or 220 - 240 volt, 50 / 60 Hz
Consumption <65VA
Main fuse 2 x 1.6 T Amp. (slow blow)
Physical
Outside dimensions Width : 28,5 cm, Depth : 39,5 cm
Height: 22,0 cm
Weight 8.2 kg
Environmental
Ambient temperature
Operation 15°Cto35 o C(59 o Fto95°F)
Non-operation Below:-10°C(14°F) Above: 43°C(109°F)
o o
Storage -40 Cto70°C(-40 Fto158°F)
Relative Humidity
Operation 20 % to 90 % no condensing
Non-operation Below: 5 % Above: 95 %
Storage 5 % to 95 %
1 -2 Columbus OEM Operating Manual

1. General
Others
Overvoltage category
Pollution degree
Method of disposal Contaminated waste
Linear Shaking
Mode Shaking Speed
1 2 3
Low 1.2 mm 4 Hz 7.5 Hz 11.0 Hz
Normal 1.7 mm 2 Hz 5.0 Hz 8.0 Hz
High 2.6 mm 2 Hz 3.5 Hz 5.0 Hz
The instruments conform to the legal norms at date.

Safety EMC
IEC 1010-1:1990 + A1: 1992 + A2:1995 EN 50082-: 1992
UL3101 - 1 EN 55014-: 1993
CAN / CSA C22.2 No. 1010 - 1 EN 50011 -:1994
EN 60555-2: 1987
/-2:1987/-3/A1: 1991

1. General
1.3 Instrument Description

The diagram below shows the main components of the instrument:
Manifold Arm illifiill

~!BHi311iiHHi
ft |1|;. .•:-:.^-:^;\-/-:,^«-
Keyboard and " " ' .
. . . .
;
- " •"
mMm
•;' : N-'y>>• •-:•;.•;;••;;:;•:;•""' :\':'- G u i d e B a r X : . ; : ' : '•:• . . [ " :
:
• . "" - ' • • • • . : . " ' " • ' . - :
- " ' ' - ' '
. • • . . ' : : ' . . - C . - . ' . . : • " . ' • " • • ' . ] ' .
: :
; • • ; : : . ' ; ; ' • • = ' . • : ' ; , ' . ' • ; . • „ : • : • ; . : ' . • •
• • . . " . . . . . . - : • . • • . . • ; ; • • • : " . _ • ^
1.3i Rear Panel Connections

The instrument has the following connections on the back panel:
Mains Power
Socketv-
Fuse
Compartment
ON/OFF^
Switch
Hand held Bottle Holder with Printer Connector Aerosol Waste

Barcode Liquid Sensor for or Tubing Tubing
Reader each bottle Serial RS 232 for (option) (red)
Remote Control
All connected devices must be proved and listed with regulations

EN 60950, UL 1950 or CSA C22.2 No. 950 for Data Processing Devices

1. General
1.3H Connection Diagram
Hand held Barcode

Reader (option)
Computer for
Remote Control
Bottle Holders
with liquid sensor
for each bottle

1. General
7.3/7/ Instrument Options

Please note that some of the options listed below require an instrument firmware
level of 3.x.
See price list for more details and order numbers.
Barcode Pen HBCS-A300 pen (Hewlett Packard) or a compatible pen

with a magnetic core for reading the microplate
identification numbers for the printout of the washing
protocol.
Decoder IC: HBCR 1611 (Hewlett Packard) included
This decoder can read:
Code 39, Interleaved 2 of 5, UPC A, EO, E1
EAN/JAN8, 13
Codabar, Code 128
Printer External printer for printing the washing protocol.

We recommend a DPU - 201 GS hand held thermal printer
(or EPSON compatible) with 27 character per line and a
power supply.
RS 232 interface, 9600 Baud, 8 data, 1 stop, no parity and
hardware handshake (BUSY on pin8 on the Washer
connector).
Fill Verification This option checks whether the wash buffer was dispensed
into each well during an overflow wash step (special
manifold required, M8 or M16).
The Fill Verification includes also the Manifold Detection
function.
Please note:
The Fill Verification Option can not be combined with the
Aerosol Protection option.
Possible from firmware level 3.23 onwards.
Factory installation required!
Manifold Automatic detection for the type of manifold fitted

Detection (M8, M12, M16).
Aerosol Special manifold and pump to aspirate any aerosol vapors

Protection away from the microplate when it is washed.
Please note:
The Aerosol Protection option can not be combined with the
Fill Verification option.
Possible from firmware level 3.23 onwards.
Factory installation required!
Liquid Channel Option to upgrade the number of liquid channels from 1 to a

Upgrade maximum of 4.
Liquid Sensor Allows the level of liquid in the bottles (wash buffer, rinse
System solution, waste etc.) to be controlled. An acoustic signal
alerts the user when the bottles are empty or full.

1. General
Columbus PC Consisting of WinWash and Download including the

Software operating manual and RS232 interface cable.
Firmware Update Consisting of the Download software, the latest version of

the firmware 3.x, as well as 5 language software files
(English, German, French, Spanish and Italian) that can
change the on-board language of the Columbus (from
firmware level 2.23 onwards) in the field.
Drip Mode Drip Mode allows a wash buffer to be added dropwise.

(Ceil Wash) This option is only available together with our cell wash
manifolds (M 8, M12, M16).
1.3iv Liquid System Diagram
Dispense Solenoid
Manifold Valve
Dispensing Pump
•I
//
\
\
\ /
Channel select
Solenoid Valves
Aerosol Pump
(optional)

1. General
1.4 Instrument Software Features

The instrument has the following software features:
• 30 user definable washing programs, permanently stored under the
numbers 1 to 30.
• Up to 60 processing steps per program, each processing step can be
identical or different from the previous step.
• 3 Washing Modes, Normal Washing, Bottom Washing and Overflow
Washing.
Set using the Plate type parameters.
• Soak Time selectable from 1 to 999 seconds.
• Software selectable Dispensing Speeds
• Software selectable Aspirating Speeds
• Software selectable Bottom position, for aspiration contact to the bottom of
the wells.
• Four Rinse Modes, the different Rinse modes can be used to select how the
instrument is rinsed before it is left to stand or switched off.
• Automatic Microplate Centering, the microplate is automatically centered
before the start of the washing program.
• Programmable Strip Selection, the program can be defined so that the
strips to be washed can be selected before starting the washing procedure.
1.4i Software Menus

The instrument can be used in the following software menus:
Run Selection of the Run procedure to perform the selected
program
Prime Priming procedure for each channel
Rinse Rinsing procedure
Program Selection of the Programming procedure, to define the
required program
Clear Procedure to clear a program from the instrument's memory
Show Procedure to show the parameters for a program
Adjust Procedure to adjust the instrument parameters
Service Selection of the Service submenu
For service technician only
1
-8 Columbus OEM Operating Manual
1. General
1.5 Washing Sequence Modes

The instrument can wash a microplate using the following sequence modes:
Plate Mode All the process steps up to a Soak step are performed on a strip
before proceeding to the next strip.
Strip Mode The complete program is performed on a strip before proceeding
to the next strip.
1.5i Washing Modes

The instrument can use the following washing modes to wash a microplate:
Normal Washing
Overflow Washing
Bottom Washing
Normal Washing Overflow Washing

Bottom Washing
1
I
|
\

1. General
1.5H Aspirating Positions

To ensure that all the wash solution is correctly aspirated out of the wells, the
manifold can be positioned so that the aspirating needles are correctly positioned
in the wells for both round or V shaped and flat bottom microplates.
All settings are defined in the Plate Type setting option of the Adjust menu.
With round or V shaped bottom wells, the aspirating needles are placed in the
middle of the wells.
V Shaped Wells
Round Bottom Wells
With flat bottom wells, the instrument can perform crosswise aspiration as the
aspirating needles move across the bottom of the well.
Crosswise Aspiration for Flat Bottom Wells
Aspirate position 1 Aspirate position 2
1.6 Rinse Modes

The instrument has four Rinse modes to flush the liquid system and to prevent
needle blockages. This mode is for use before the instrument is left to stand or is
switched off at the end of working.
The Rinse modes are:
Rinse: Soak
Rinse: Day
Rinse: Night
Rinse: Auto
See Chapter 6 for description of the Rinse modes and how they are used.

2.1 Unpacking and Inspection

The instrument is shipped in one carton which contains:
Instrument
• Accessory package which contains:
Manifold with two screws and Allen key
Operating manual
Mains power cable
Cleaning needles
2 spare fuses
Solution tube
• Bottle set containing:

3 x 2.5 I bottles for the standard instrument
Liquid Sensor System Accessory package

(optional) \ and operating^nanual
Bottles

2.2 Unpacking Procedure

1. Visually inspect the container for damage before it is opened.
Report any damage immediately.
2. To place the instrument, select a location that is flat, level, vibration free,
away from direct sunlight, and free from dust, solvents and acid vapors.
Allow 10 cm distance between the back of the instrument and the wall or
any other equipment.
3. Place the carton in an upright position and open it.
4. Lift the instrument out of the carton and place it in the selected location.
5. Visually inspect the instrument for loose, bent or broken parts.
Report any damage immediately.
6. Compare the serial number on the rear panel of the instrument with the
serial number on the packing slip.
Report any discrepancy immediately.
7. Check the instrument accessories against the packing list.
8. Save packing materials for future use.
2.3 Power Requirements

The instrument is designed to operate at either 100-120 volt or 220 - 240 volt.
No voltage setting is required as the washer automatically senses the supplied
voltage.
The washer requires 2 x T 1.6 A / 250 V (slow blow) fuses.
WARNING
TO PREVENT THE RISK OF FIRE, THE MAINS FUSES SHOULD ONLY BE
REPLACED WITH THE SAME TYPE AND RATING OF FUSE.

2.4 Installation Procedure

Before the instrument is installed and switched on, it
should be left to stand for at least three hours, so there is
no possibility of condensation causing a.short circuit.
2.41 Connecting the Waste Tubing

Turn the instrument onto the right hand side.
Slide the waste tube through the hole in the back panel.
\
Aerosol Tube Hole Waste Tube Hole
Connect the waste tube onto the T connector of the tubing from the top
connector of the aspirating pump.
Standard Instrument
Waste Bottle
Turn the instrument back to the normal position.

Place the other end of the waste tubing into the waste bottle.

Connect the aerosol tube onto the aerosol pump if this option is fitted. This is not
necessary for the standard instrument.
Instrument with Aerosol Protection Option
Turn the instrument back to the normal position.

Place the other end of the aerosol tubing into the aerosol bottle.

2.4/7 Fitting the Manifold

The instrument can be used with the following types of manifolds:
• Normal (8, 12 and 16)
• Normal with aerosol aspiration Factory installation required
• Fill verification Factory installation required
The manifolds are fitted to the instrument using the following procedures:
1. Lift the manifold arm.
2. Carefully fit the manifold onto the manifold arm and ensure that the locating
pins are correctly inserted through the holes in the plate.
3. If the manifold detection option is fitted, ensure that the manifold type
indicator is correctly fitted between the manifold type detector switches.
4. Tighten the manifold into place using the two screws.
5. Fit the dispensing tube onto the top connector on the rear of the manifold.
6. Fit the aspirating tubing (marked with red rings) onto the two bottom
connectors on the rear of the manifold.
7. If the aerosol pump option is fitted, fit the aerosol tubing (marked with
yellow rings) onto the aerosol connectors of the aerosol part.
8. If the Fill Verification option is fitted, connect the small ribbon cable onto the
connector block on the left hand side of the circuit board in the manifold
arm.
Manifold for the Standard Instrument

(without Aerosol Aspiration and Fill Verification)
Aspirating Tube Connectors Dispensing Tube Connector
red blue
Locating Pin
Locating Pin
Manifold Type
Indicator
n
o o o e
C O o O O

Manifold for Instrument with Aerosol Aspiration and Fill Verification

Aspirating Tube Connectors Dispensing Tube Connector
red blue
Locating Pin
Locating Pin
Ribbon Cable
Aerosol Tube Connectors yellow
Ribbon Cable
connectorsv^
For a 8 or 12
manifold only usa
connector 2
When all the required tubing and ribbon cable have been connected, lower the
manifold arm.

2.4/77 Fitting the Plate Support

The instrument is delivered with the plate support already installed. If the plate
support is removed, e.g. for cleaning, it can be replaced using the following
procedure:
Lift the manifold arm
Slightly tilt the plate support towards the right.
Carefully slide the plate support with the waste sink at the rear over the guide bar.
HI-Guide Bar
The plate support must be slightly tilted so that it goes over the pin that activates
the automatic microplate centering mechanism.
Push the plate support so that it is fully inserted into the instrument.
Lower the plate support.
Lower the manifold arm.
2.4iv Connecting the Solution Tubes

The solution tubes are connected onto the inlet connectors on the back panel of
the instrument. The instrument is supplied with four meters of tubing that can be
cut to the required length (maximum 1 meter).
Inlets for channels 1 - 4

n
Aerosol T u b e * Waste Tube

(optional) red

2.4v Fitting and Connecting the Liquid Sensors (Optional)

Connect the detector unit cable into the appropriate socket in the back panel of
the instrument. The liquid sensor system can be extended to control up to four
different liquid bottles and one waste bottle.
1
1IB 1 •"•• i: i"::""- ::::: :;-5::-;'1/i'- : ?:
< » s
Bottle Liquid
Sensor
Fix the tube support in the bottle holder as shown below.
Insert the tubes and connect the bottle holder to the instrument.

2.4vi Connecting the Barcode Reader (Optional)

Before the barcode reader can be connected to the instrument, the supplied
barcode chips must be added to the main board. For more details contact your
service technician.
r m1
OK
••• i
I
jl
Hand Held Barcode Liquid Sensor
Reader
2.4vii Connecting the Printer (Optional)

Before the printer can be connected to the instrument, the supplied chip must be
added to the main board. For more details contact your service technician.
Connect the printer to the instrument using the supplied cable.
Connect the power supply cable to the printer.
Power Cable
ON /OFF
Switch
Connection Cable
2.4viii Power Connections
Before the instrument is installed and switched on, it

should be left to stand for at least three hours, so there is
no possibility of condensation causing a short circuit.
Ensure that the on / off switch in the back panel of the instrument is in the off
position.
Insert the mains power cable into the mains power socket on the rear of the
instrument.

3.1 Switching the Instrument On

Ensure the instrument has been correctly installed and the power cable is
connected into the power cable socket in the back panel of the instrument.
If the printer is fitted, switch the printer on using the on/off switch (position 2)
Switch the instrument on, using the on/off switch in the back panel of the
instrument.
The initialization procedure is performed and, depending on the washer type, one
of the following initialization messages is displayed:
HEADER
V3.xx
Version V X.x is the instrument's software version.
If the 'Rinse: Night' rinsing procedure was not performed before the instrument
was switched off, the following message is displayed:
You should Rinse

no yes
Select if a rinsing procedure is to be performed.
After the rinsing procedures have been completed or omitted, the instrument
proceeds to the standby mode and the following message is displayed:
Run XX yyyyyyyy
- + other yes
Where XX is the displayed program number and yyyyyyyy the program name.
Important
STOP The instrument must be primed before it can be used. Please ensure that
the dispensing and aspiration pumps are not run for longer than a few
minutes without liquid or they will be damaged.

3.2 Mode Selection Menu

The Mode Selection menu has the following submenu selections:
Run XX:yyyyyyy
z
+ other yes
Selection of the Run procedure
to perform the selected program
Prime: Chi
Rinse:
z
+ other yes
Soak
Priming procedure for each channel
Prog
z
+ other yes
XX:
T.
Rinsing procedure
z
+ other yes
Clear XX:yyyyyyy
Selection of the Programming procedure,
to define the required program
z
+ other yes
Show XX:yyyyyyyy
Procedure to clear a program from
the instrument's memory
z
+ other yes
Adjust Menu
Procedure to show parameters
for a program
Service
z
other yes
other yes
Procedure to adjust the
instrument parameters
J Selection of the Service submenu

For service technicians only

3.3 Priming Procedure

Before the instrument can be used, all dispensing channels must be primed
with the required solution.
Ensure that the bottle of priming solution is always full at the beginning of
the priming procedure and check that the inlet filters in the liquid tubes are
clear.
Please ensure that the dispensing and aspiration pumps are not run for
longer than a few minutes without liquid or they will be damaged.
The priming procedure is performed using the following procedure:
Run XX yyyyyyyy
+ other yes
Prime Chi Select required channel to be primed

+ other yes
V
Prime Solution ? Required solution in bottle and inlet
exit yes
tube inserted into solution
V
Waste Bottle OK? Waste bottle empty
exit yes
Prime ChX Y sec Priming procedure being performed

Stop
Priming Procedure
performed
V
Run xx yyyyyyyy Instrument ready to wash microplate
+ other yes
Important
S1OP Do not use the instrument to aspirate or dispense any acidic solutions as
this could damage the instrument.

3.4 Operating Instructions

Insert the microplate to be washed into the plate support and ensure that the
microplate is correctly inserted for the type of manifold that is fitted.
11 way manifold!
The operating procedure is dependent on the instrument options and the program
settings.
Procedure to Wash Individually Selected Strips
Run XX Select required program

+ other yes
The strips are represented by Y (yes) or N (no).

The number of Ys depends on the manifold size.
An 8 manifold has 12 Y/Ns, a 12 manifold has 8 Y/Ns.
1: NYYNNNNNYNNN A 16 manifold has 12 Y/Ns each representing 2 strips.
< > chg yes
Select required strips using the cursor keys to
(selected strip is underlined) and press 'chg' key
to change the strip's setting.
E.g. NYYNNNNNYNM means that the
2nd, 3rd and 9tK strips will be washed.
Channel X primed? Required channel primed
no yes
Primings-
procedure
Plate inserted ? Plate inserted

exit yes
Waste Bottle OK? Waste bottle empty

exit yes
Procedure
performed
y
Run xx yyyyyyyy Remove the microplate from plate support,
+ other yes instrument ready to wash next microplate

Instrument with Printer and Barcode Options
Run xx yyyyyyyy Select required program

+ o t h e r yes
Barcode Reader Fitted No Barcode Reader
Read Plate
ID Skip Man
Barcode Strip Read
P l a t e ID: Move Barcode reader over

xxxxxxxx Barcode strip or manually
890 J ABCDE
enter identification number
Read Barcode
displayed for 2 sees
Select Strips NO Select Strips Yes
Nr.of Strips: XX 1: YYYYYYYY Select required number of strips

+ exit yes < > chg yes or required strips
Channel X primed?
no yes Required channel primed
Priming
procedure
Plate inserted ? Plate inserted

exit yes
Procedure
performed
When Procedure Completed

Print setting YES
Print setting ASK
Print List now ? Select if list is to be printed

NO YES
Printing Printing procedure
Remove the microplate from plate support,

Run XX yyyyyyyy
+ o t h e r yes instrument ready to wash next microplate
Important
STOP When the instrument is busy, do not touch the manifold. After the
instrument has been used, the manifold may be infectious.

Fill Verification
The Fill Verification option is a method of checking the filling of the wells in a
microplate. Possible errors with the dispensing system as well as the aspiration
system can be recognised.
The Fill Verification only works with the OVERFLOW wash procedure.
The wash buffer forms an electrical connection between the dispensing needles
and the aspirating needles. As soon as the wash liquid touches the aspirating
needles the electric circuit is closed.
Manifold
Dispensing needle
Aspirating needle
Well filled with washbuffer
The following errors can be detected using this method.

• Fill Dispens Error
• Fill Aspiration Error
• Fill Function Error
Fill Dispens Error

The error messages "Inadequate wash", "Check disp path" are displayed.
These error messages appear if some of the needles are dispensing no or too
little solution. Possible errors could be a result of blocked dispensing needles,
bubbles in the dispensing channels, empty liquid bottles or the dispensing pump
no longer functions.
If no connection between the dispensing needles and the relevant aspirating
needles is made at least 30 ul before the end of the dispensing step, the wash
program will be interrupted.
Fill Aspiration Error

The error message "Fill Asp. Err." Is displayed.
In order to prevent the wells from overflowing, the instrument checks when the
individual aspirating needles come into contact with the wash solution.
If this happens before 200 ul has been dispensed into the wells the program is
stopped immediately. This can occur when the well was not or not completely
aspirated, due to a blocked aspirating needle / tube or the general aspiration
being too weak.

Fill Function Error

The error message "Fill Funct. Err" is displayed.
Before each wash procedure and each row the program checks whether there is
an electrical connection between the dispensing and aspirating needle(s). If a
connection exists, the dispense and aspiration errors can not be detected and the
program is interrupted immediately or will not even be started
The underside of the manifold must then be cleaned, as the deposits from the
wash buffer can produce an electrical connection between the needles which
could prevent the Fill Verification option from functioning correctly.
Test Conditions
The following conditions are required for the Fill Verification to function flawlessly.
• The conductance of the wash buffer must be between 5 mS/cm and
30 mS/cm.
• The amount of wash liquid dispensed must produce at least 100 ul overflow.
• At least 450 ul should be dispensed with an Overflow Position slightly above
the upper well limit.
Conductance of some Standard Wash Buffers

Most of the commercial wash buffers lie in the mentioned conductance ranges.
The conductance is proportional to the wash buffer concentration.
The following values were measured using a normal dilution:
Wash buffer Ortho Diagnostic System: 1:20-14.0 mS/cm
Wash buffer SIGMA .Phosphate buffered 1 tablet in 200ml -14.7 mS/cm
saline Tablets:
Wash buffer ORGANON TEKNIKA. 1:25-13.7 mS/cm
Phosphat buffer concentrate:
Wash buffer BOUTY.Beta IgM: 1:20-14.2 mS/cm
Wash buffer MUREX .Wash fluid 1:20 - 7.8 mS/cm
(Glycine/Borate):
Wash buffer BIOTEST ELPHA . ( Nr. 3+4): 1:10-28.1 mS/cm

Drip Mode Option (Cell Wash)

Cell Washing is a very gentle wash procedure for cell based assays. For this
application a special Cell Wash manifold (with longer dispensing needles) is
available as an option. In combination with the Drip Mode - option this allows to
select a slow dispensing speed (drop wise dispensing of liquid) that reduces
turbulences during the wash step and assures optimum results:
Example for Instrument settings during programming procedure for Cell Wash
applications:
• Aspiration Crosswise must set to NO or
Asp. Position 1 and 2: parameters for Asp.Pos.1 and 2 should be set identical
to give only one aspiration point or
If a round bottomed plate is defined - only Aspiration Pos.1 will be used.
• Disp. Rate: drip
• Asp. Rate: 1 - 2
• Asp. Speed: 1 - 3 mm/sec

3.5 Error Messages
3.5i Standard Instrument

Program Not defined
If the selected program has not been defined, the following message is displayed:
Program not def

exit
Press exit to remove the message and return to the standby mode
Run XXyyyyyyyy
- + other yes
Select a defined program that is to be performed.
Wrong Manifold
If the selected program requires a different type of manifold than the manifold that
is fitted to the instrument, the following message is displayed:
WRONG MANIFOLD
exit
Press exit and the instrument returns to the standby mode.

Either exchange the manifold for the required type of manifold or re-program the
procedure for the type of manifold that is fitted.
If the correct type of manifold is fitted, check the setting for the fitted manifold in
the Adjust menu.
If either the Manifold Detection or Fill Verification option is enabled ensure that the
ribbon cable is in the correct connector, see diagram in chapter 2.
This message may also be displayed, if the Fill Verification or Manifold Detection
options are enabled but the required parts are not fitted to the instrument. In this
case please call your local representative.
Transport Error
If the instrument cannot move the plate support, the following message is
displayed:
Init-Err. CONT?
retry yes
Press yes (exit) to remove the error message and the instrument returns to the
standby mode.
Check that the plate support is correctly inserted and that the plate support
system is clear.
Columbus OEM Operating Manual 3.9

3.5H Instrument with Liquid Sensor (Optional)

Waste Bottle Full at Start
When the selected program is confirmed, the instrument checks if the waste bottle
is full. If it is full, the following message is displayed:
Wastebottle Full
yes
Press yes to remove the message and return to the start and the following
message is displayed:
Run XX
- + other yes
Empty the waste bottle and restart the program.

Waste Bottle Full during Procedure
If the waste bottle becomes full during the washing procedure, the following
message is displayed after the instrument has completed the washing procedure:
Wastebottle Full
yes
The instrument does not stop a procedure when the waste bottle becomes
full. Therefore ensure that the waste full sensor Is calibrated In such a way
so that there is enough space in the waste bottle, to accept the rest of the
solution. (See chapter 5)
Press yes to remove the message and the instrument proceeds to the standby
mode and the following message is displayed:
Run XX
- + other yes
Empty the waste bottle and the instrument is ready to start the next procedure.
Liquid Bottle Empty
If the liquid bottle is empty before a program is started, the following message is
displayed:
Liq. Empty Ch: X

yes
Fill the liquid bottle and press yes to remove the message and continue with the
program.

3.5/77 Instrument Fitted with Printer (Optional)

Printer Error
If the protocol cannot be printed, the following message is displayed:
Printer Error
cont retry
Check that the printer is connected to the instrument, switched on and that there
is paper in the printer. When the printer error has been corrected, press retry to
repeat the printing procedure.
If the printout is not required, press cont to proceed to the standby mode.
3.5iv Instrument Fitted with Manifold Detection Sensors

(Optional)
Manifold Arm Error
If the manifold arm is not lowered correctly due to the manifold becoming caught,
e.g. the side of the wells, the following message is displayed:
Manif. arm Error!

Exit
Press exit to remove the error message and return to the standby mode.
Check that the microplate is correctly inserted into the plate support.
Check that the manifold arm is not blocked.
Check if the needles are catching on the side of the microplate, use the Adjust
menu to adjust the positions for that particular type of microplate.
3.5v Instrument Fitted with Fill Verification (Optional)

Liquid Not Dispensed
During the Wash procedure
If the instrument detects that one or more needles are not dispensing solution or
non-conductive liquid is being used, the following error messages are scrolled on
the display:
Inadequate Wash!
Exit
Check Disp. Path

Exit

Check that the reagent bottle has enough solution and the inlet tube is fitted into
the solution.
Use the Prime menu to fill the liquid system with solution.
Check that the dispensing needles are clear.
Fill Communication Error

If the fill verification board does not respond, the following error message is
displayed:
Fill Comm. Err.!

Exit
Switch off the instrument to clear the display. Ensure that the small ribbon cable
and the interface cable (from the mainboard) are connected correctly to the Fill
Verification board. Switch the instrument on again.
Contact the service technician to disable the Fill Verification option in the Service
menu and to correct the problem.
Fill Function Error

If the fill verification board needle status can not be deleted, the following error
message is displayed:
Fill Funct.Err.!
Exit
The problem is caused by an electrical conducting liquid connection from the
dispensing to the aspirating needles on the manifold. The underside of the
manifold must then be cleaned using, for example, distilled water.
Contact the service technician to disable the Fill Verification option in the Service
menu and to correct the problem.
Fill Aspiration Error

When the well is not correctly aspirated the following error is displayed:
Fill Asp. Err.!

Exit
The problem is caused by a blocked aspirating needle / tube or the aspirating

pump may not be functioning correctly. Use the cleaning needles to clean the
aspirating needles (see chapter 7) or replace the pump.
Contact the service technician to correct the problem.

3.6 End of Working

At the end of working, the instrument can be either left switched on with the
manifold in the rinsing solution or switched off.
Instrument Left Switched On

Use the following procedure to leave the instrument switched on with the manifold
soaking in the distilled water at the end of working:
Place the wash solution tube into a bottle containing distilled water.
Use the 'Rinse: Night' rinsing procedure to rinse the wash system.
See chapter 6.
When rinsing procedure is completed the following message is displayed:
Soaking
Stop
If the manifold is to be soaked overnight, do not switch the instrument off.
Switching the Instrument Off

If the instrument is to be switched off at the end of working the 'Rinse: Day'
rinsing procedure should be performed to prevent the needles becoming blocked.
Place the wash solution tube into a bottle containing distilled water.
Use the 'Rinse: Day' rinsing procedure to rinse the wash system.
When the rinsing procedure is completed, switch the instrument off.

4.1 Introduction
The instrument can store up to thirty programs which contain the following
parameters:
Name Name for the program, up to eight characters long
Plate Type The plate type number (1 - 9)
Manifold The type of manifold that is to be used (8,12 or 16 way)
Disp. Rate The speed at which the solution is dispensed
Asp. Rate The speed at which the solution is aspirated
Crosswise Selection if crosswise aspiration is to be used if the plate
type has flat bottom wells.
Select Strips Select if the number of strips or individual strips can be
selected.
Mode The selection of which operating mode is to be used (plate or
strip)
Process Steps Each of the programs can contain up to a maximum of sixty
different or equal processing steps in a number of cycles.
The following processing steps are available:

• Aspirate: Aspirate solution out of the wells
• Wash: Aspirate and dispense a solution
• Dispense: Dispense a solution
• Soak: Leave the solution in the wells for a time, with or without
shaking.
• End: End the programming procedure for this cycle.

4.2 Procedure for Defining a New Program
Prog XX: Select required program to be defined

+ other yes
Name: Enter the required name for the program

890 J ABCDE (up to eight characters)
Plate Type: 1 Select required plate type

+ exit yes
(1-9)
Manifold Type: 8 Select the type of manifold to be used

+ exit yes
(8, 12 or 16 way)
Dlsp Rate: 3 Select the dispensing speed (1 - 5 or drip)

+ exit yes The speed of the dispensing pump.
Selected aspirating speed

Asp Rate: 2 (1-5 [8 or 12 manifold]
+ exit yes or 1 - 3 [16 manifold])
The speed of the aspirating pump.
Plate type: Plate type: flat bottomed
round bottomed
Crosswise: NO Select if crosswise aspiration is to be used
+ exit yes Crosswise aspiration is only for flat bottomed plates.
Sel. S t r i p s : NO Select if strips are to be selected

+ exit yes
Mode: Plate Select required operating mode

+ exit yes (strip or plate)
C:l P:l END Select required process step

+ other yes
Aspirate Aspirate solution out of the wells.

Wash Aspirate and dispense a solution
Dispense Dispense a solution
Soak Leave the solution in the wells for a time with or without shaking
End End the programming procedure for this cycle.

4.2i Process Step: Aspirate
C:X P:Y Asp. Select and confirm Aspirating step

+ other yes
Asp.Time: 4 sec Select required aspirating time

+ exit yes
(1-20 seconds)
V
Asp.Speed: lOmm/s Select required aspirating speed
+ exit yes (1-20 mm/sec)
The speed that the needles are lowered into the wells.
V
C:X P:Y END Select next type of step
+ other yes C:X = cycle number
P:Y = process step for this cycle
4.2/7 Process Step: Wash

This process step is used to aspirate solution out of the wells and simultaneously
dispense and aspirate the solution.
C:X P:Y Wash Select and confirm Wash step

+ other yes
AspSpeed: lOmm/s Select required aspirating speed

+ exit yes (1 - 20 mm/sec)
1 The speed that the needles are lowered into the wells.
Dispense Overfl Select required Dispensing position

+ exit yes (overflow or bottom)
1
Channel: 1 Select the channel to be used

+ exit yes (1-4)
Volume: 300ul Select the volume of solution to be used

+ exit yes (50 - 3000 nl in increments of 50 (il)
1 (50 - 400 nl in increments of 50 nl for drip mode)
1
V
+ other yes

4.21H Process Step: Dispense
r> C:X P:Y Disp Select and confirm Dispensing step

+ other yes
Select required dispensing position

Dispense Overfl
+ exit yes (overflow or bottom)
Channel: 1
Select the channel to be used
+ exit yes (1-4)
Volume: 400ul Select the volume of solution to be used

+ exit yes (50 - 400 jxl in increments of 50 fil)

- + o t h e r yes
4.2iv Process Step: Soak
C:X P:Y Soak Select and confirm Soak step

+ other yes
Soaktime: lOsec Select required soaking time

+ exit yes
(1-999 seconds)
Shake-Speed: NO Select required shaking speed

+ exit yes (No, Linear)

+ o t h e r yes
Linear Shaking
Select the shake speed: 1, 2 or 3. Confirm with 'yes'.
Select the shake mode: low, normal or high. Confirm with 'yes1.

4.2v Process Step: END
C:Y P: X END Select and confirm End step

+ other yes
Cycle Y END ? Confirm end of programming for this cycle

no yes
Nr. of Cycles: 1 Select number of cycles to be performed

+ yes using these programmed steps (1 - 9)
Different Cycle? Select if a different cycle

no yes is to be defined
C:Z P:l END Select steps for next cycle

+ other yes
Final Aspirate ? Select if the microplate is to be aspirated

no yes at the end of the procedure
Time: 4 sec Select required aspirating time (1 • 20 sec)

+ exit yes
Speed: lOmm/s Select required aspirating speed (1 • 20 mm/s)

+ exit yes
Flat bottom Round bottom
wells vG wells
Crosswise: NO Select if crosswise aspiration is to be used

+ e x i t yes
P r i n t P r o t . ? ASK If printer option fitted, select setting for

+ e x i t yes protocol printing (YES, NO, ASK)
Run X:yyyyyyy Instrument ready to perform defined

+ other yes washing procedure

4.3 Editing a Defined Program

To edit a defined program, proceed as described in the Defining a New Program
section and edit the parameters as required. If the program is locked it can not be
edited with the onboard software and the following error message is displayed:
Program locked
yes
4.3i Changing the Type of Defined Process Step

To change the type for a defined process step, use the - and + keys to scroll to
the required process step number that is to be altered.
When the required type of process step is displayed, press other to scroll the type
of process steps across the display.
When the required type of process step is displayed, press yes to confirm the
selection.
The instrument enters the programming procedure for the selected process step.
If an existing process step has been changed to End, all previously defined
steps after this step in this cycle have now been deleted.
4.3H End Programming Procedure

To end the programming / editing procedure when all the required parameters
have been altered, use the - and + keys to scroll to the End program step.
C:X P:Y END

- + other yes
Where C:X is the cycle number and P:Y is the process step number for this cycle.
Press yes to confirm the selection of the End process step and the programmed
parameters for the End step are displayed.
When the parameters for the End step have been confirmed, the instrument
returns to the standby mode and the following message is displayed:
Run XX:yyyyyyy
- + other yes
The instrument is now ready to use the program which has been edited.

4.4 Show Program

This submenu is used to display the parameters that have been defined for a
program.
The displayed parameter settings can not be altered in this submenu.
Show XX:yyyyyyy Select required program to be

+ other yes shown
Print List now ? If printer option fitted, select if

YES NO parameters are to be selected or not.
Printing. Parameters being printed
Plate Type: X Selected plate type displayed

exit yes
Manifold Type:XX Selected manifold type displayed

exit yes
Disp Rate: X Selected dispensing speed (1 - 5 or drip)

exit yes TTie speed of the dispensing pump.
Selected aspirating speed
Asp Rate: X (1-5 [8 or 12 manifold]
exit yes or 1-3 [16 manifold])
The speed of the aspirating pump.
Plate type Plate type
Round bottomed Flat bottomed
Crosswise: XX Selected setting for crosswise aspiration

exit yes
Sel. S t r i p s : XXX Selected setting for strip selection

exit yes
Mode: Xxxxxx Selected operating mode

exit yes (strip or plate)
C:1 P : 1 XXXX Select required process step to be shown

+ Exit yes
using - and + keys or press yes to step
through all steps and settings
Show xx:yyyyyyy
+ other yes

4.5 Clear Program

This submenu is used to clear a program from the instrument's memory. If the
program is locked it can not be cleared and the following error message is
displayed:
Program locked
yes
Clear XX:yyyyyyy Select required program to be

|—> + other yes cleared from instrument's memory
Clear XX:yyyyyyy Confirm that selected program is

no yes to be cleared
Clear XX:yyyyyyy Select next program to be cleared or

+ other yes required option in Mode Selection menu
The function 'Clear ALL' is available within the 'Clear Program' option. This
function enables you to clear all of the programs (excluding those that are
locked!). The 'Clear ALL' function is found before program 1 and after program 30.
Use the cursor keys to skip through the programs and once 'Clear ALL1 is
displayed press 'yes' and all of the programs (with the exception of those that are
locked) will be cleared.
This option is not to be confused with the 'Clear ALL' function in the Service
menu. See chapter 7 for more details.

5. Adjust Menu
5. Adjust Menu
5.1 Introduction
The Adjust menu has the following options:
Plate Type Adjustment procedure for setting the parameters for up

to nine different types of microplates.
Prime Time Adjust the time that the Priming procedure is performed
for.
Rinse Time Adjust the time that the Rinsing procedure is performed
for.
Autorinse Adjust the time between the Autorinse rinsing cycles.
Kit Selection Only available if a kit is defined by PC software.
Date Set the date.
Time Set the time.
Sel. Manifold Set the manifold that is fitted to the instrument.
(If the option Manifold Detection or Fill Verification is
enabled, this menu point does not exist).
Adjust Liquid The switch thresholds for the wash, rinse and waste
Sensors liquid can be defined.
(optional) (Only usable with the Liquid Sensor System option.)

5. Adjust Menu
Adjust Menu Confirm selection of Adjust menu

other yes
Platetype: 1 Plate Type definition menu

+ other yes Use - and + keys to select required plate type
- ^ Plate Type definition procedure
Primetime:10 sec
Priming Time setting
+ other yes Use - and + keys to select required priming time
(8 - 99 sec.)
Rinsetime: lOsec Rinse Time setting

+ other yes Use - and + keys to select required rinsing time
(8 • 99 sec.)
AutoRinse: 1h Automatic Rinsing Time setting

+ other yes Use - and + keys to select required time between
Automatic Rinsing procedures (1 • 24 hrs.)
ST*
Kit Select: Off Only available if a kit is defined
+ other yes by PC software.
Date setting (option)

Date: ddmnmyyyy Use d to change day setting
d m other y Use m to chang month setting
Use y to change year setting
Time setting (option)

Time: hh:mm xx Use h to change hour setting
h m other form Use m to chang minute setting
Use Form to change from 12 to 24 hr format
Sel.Manifold: xx Manifold setting (optional)

+ other yes Use - and + keys to select fitted manifold. (8, 12, 16)
If manifold detect option or fill verfication is enabled,
this setting can not be used
Adj. Liq Sensors

other yes Adjust Liquid Sensor (optional)
Exit Adjust Exit Adjust menu

other yes
Run XX yyyyyyyy
+ other yes

5. Adjust Menu
5.2 Plate Type

This option is used to set the following parameters for the different types of
microplates. If a plate type is defined in a locked program it can not be edited and
the following error message is displayed:
Plate locked
yes
Before starting the adjustment procedure, insert the microplate to be

adapted into the plate support.
5.21 Round Bottom Plates

other yes
V '
Platetype: X Plate type definition menu
+ other yes Use - and + keys to select required platetype
(1-9)
Bottomform Round Plate bottom form setting

+ exit yes Use - and + keys to select required bottom form
(flat or round)
1
\
Disp.Pos XXX Set dispensing position
+ exit yes Use - and + keys to move the plate support so
\ that the dispensing needles are in the correct
position
\
Asp.Pos XXX Set aspirating position
that the aspirating needles are in the correct position
\
>
Set bottom aspirating position
Asp.Pos Botm XXX
Use - and + keys to move the manifold so that the
+ exit yes
aspirating needles are in the correct position for
aspirating the bottom of the wells
N
Washpos Botm XXX Set bottom washing position
- + exit yes Use - and + keys to move the manifold so that the
1 the bottom washing procedure
N Set overflow washing position

Washpos Ovfl XXX
Use - and + keys to move the manifold so that the
+ exit yes
i—'
>
Platetype: X
the overflow washing procedure
Select plate type to be defined or other

+ other yes to proceed to the next option.

5. Adjust Menu
5.2/7 Flat Bottom Plates

other yes
y _J
Platetype: X Plate type definition menu
+ other yes Use - and + keys to select required plate type
(1-9)
Bottomform Flat Plate bottom form setting

+ exit yes Use - and + keys to select required bottom form
(flat or round)
>
Disp.Pos XXX Set dispensing position
that the dispensing needles are in the correct position
Asp.Pos 1 XXX Set aspirating position 1

exit yes Use - and + keys to move the plate support so that
the aspirating needles are in the correct position
><
Set aspirating position 2
Asp.Pos 2 XXX Use - and + keys to move the plate support so that
exit yes the aspirating needles are in the correct position
Only used if Crosswise Asp. is set to Yes.
N/
Asp.Pos Botm XXX Set bottom aspirating position
exit yes Use - and + keys to move the manifold so that the
aspirating the bottom of the wells
\{
Washpos Botm XXX Set bottom washing position
the bottom washing procedure
Y
Washpos Ovfl XXX Set overflow washing position
1 aspirating needles are in the correct position for
the overflow washing procedure
>f
Platetype: X Select plate type to be defined or
+ other yes
other to proceed to the next option.

5. Adjust Menu
5.2/7/ Movement Diagrams

The following diagrams show how the plate support and manifold are moved for
the various settings
Dispense Position
Instrument Front I I Instrument Front
Aspirate Position (1)
Instrument Front Instrument Front
Position to Edge Position to Centre
Aspirate Position (2) Fiat Bottom Welis Only
Instrument Front
Aspirate Bottom Position
Instrument Front
Instrument Front
Bottom Wash Position
Instrument Front
Instrument Front
Overflow Wash Position
Instrument Front
Instrument Front

5. Adjust Menu
5.3 Adjust Liquid Sensors (Optional)
Important
This procedure must be performed when the instrument is installed.
Please prepare the bottles before performing the procedure below. The bottles
marked green (wash solution) and gray (rinse solution) should be filled with 600ml
of water and the bottle marked red (waste) should be filled with 2000 ml of water.
Place all three bottles on the corresponding colored bottle holders. Go to the
Adjust menu and select Adj. Liq. Sens, as described below:
/ * •
Adj. Liq. Sens Press yes to start the adjustment procedure
other i'es
J Using the - and + keys select the liquid sensor to

be calibrated.
Y 1 = Green (wash solution)
Liq. Sens. 1
, — >
f exit yes 2 = Gray (rinse solution)
W = Red (waste)
I Press yes to continue the adjustment procedure.
Y XX = displayed sensor value (does not directly
Empty 1 XX 1 correlate to the volume of liquid in the bottles).
exit yes 1 = values above limit
Press yes to confirm the limit.
$ J
Empty 1 XX 0 XX = displayed value 0 = values below limit
exit yes Press exit to continue the adjustment of other
1 sensors.
Use the cursor keys to repeat this procedure

for the grey (rinse solution) and red (waste)
bottles. See also below for more details.
Liquid Sensors 1 - 2
When a liquid sensor (1 - 2) has been selected, the following message is
displayed:
Empty S XX Y
exit yes
Where S = the sensor number, XX is the displayed value and Y = limit

(0 = values below limit, 1 = values above limit)
Adjust the volume of solution in the bottle to the lowest volume that can be used
before starting the procedure.
When the minimal volume is in the bottle, press yes to confirm the value (volume).
Green bottle (wash solution) = 600 ml
Gray bottle (rinse solution) = 600 ml
When the sensor detects a volume less than this entered volume, it will display an
error message either before starting the test procedure or after the procedure has
been completed.
When the value has been set, press exit and the following message is displayed:

5. Adjust Menu
Liquid Sens. 1
- + exit yes
Use the '<' and '>' keys to set the next required sensor (1 - 2 or W)
Waste Sensor
When the waste sensor has been selected, the following message is displayed:
Full W XX Y
exit yes
Where W = Waste sensor, XXX is the displayed value and Y = limit

(0 = values below limit, 1 = values above limit)
Adjust the volume of solution in the waste bottle to the highest volume that can be
used before starting the procedure.
When the maximum volume is in the bottle, press yes to confirm the value
(volume).
Red bottle (waste) = 2000 ml
When the sensor detects a volume greater than this entered volume, it will display
an error message either before starting the test procedure or after the procedure
has been completed.
When all the sensors have been set, press exit and the following message is
displayed:
Adj.Liq.Sens.:
other yes
Press other to proceed to the next option.

6. Maintenance and Cleaning
6.1 Manifold Removal

The manifold should be removed and thoroughly cleaned at least once a month or
if one or more of the needles are blocked.
Important
STOP After the instrument has been used, the manifold may be infectious.
Before the manifold is removed it should be thoroughly disinfected and gloves

should be worn when any procedures are performed.
Lift the manifold arm and remove the two screws that hold the manifold onto the
holder.
When the two screws have been removed, carefully pull the manifold away from
the holder.

Carefully pull the tubing off the connectors on the rear of the manifold.
Dispensing tube
Locating pin
Aspirating tubes
Manifold indicator type

Locating pin
6.1 i Manifold Cleaning

The most important cleaning procedure for this instrument is to rinse the wash
system before the instrument is left to stand or switched off at the end of each
day.
Important
If the manifold is not rinsed, the needles will become blocked.
This will result in the manifold either needing expensive repairs
or it could become completely ruined.
The manifold can be cleaned using :

• The supplied cleaning needles (accessory box)
Carefully push the cleaning needles into the aspirating and dispensing
needles.
The small cleaning needle is for the dispensing needles and the large
cleaning needle is for the aspirating needles.
Rinse the manifold block with distilled water to ensure that all particles have
been removed.
• A gentle ultrasonic bath of warm distilled water for fifteen minutes.
Autoclaving (max. 130 °C , max. five times)
Autoclaving Is only Intended for use with a manifold that is not fitted with
the Fill Verification option. Manifolds with the Fill Verification option should
only be cleaned In an ultrasonic bath. If additional cleaning is required, use
a small brush. Do not use autoclaving.

Should it become necessary to take the manifold apart (possibly infectious!) take
care to insert all sealings properly when reassembling the manifold.
Twisted or missing seals may result in a leaking manifold!
After the manifold has been cleaned, reconnect the tubing and replace it into the
instrument.
Tighten the manifold into place using the two screws, ensure that the screws are
tight.
When the manifold has been refitted, switch the instrument on and perform the
priming procedure using distilled water.
6. Hi Exchanging the Manifolds

Three different types of manifolds (8 way, 12 way and 16 way) as well as the cell
wash manifold can be used with the instrument.
If the instrument is fitted with the Fill Verification or Manifold Detection options, it
will automatically detect the type of manifold fitted.
Otherwise use the Select Manifold option in the Adjust menu to set the instrument
for the fitted manifold. (See Chapter 5)
Columbus OEM Operating Manual 6.3

6.2 Replacing the Mains Fuses
WARNING
TO PREVENT THE RISK OF FIRE, THE MAINS FUSES SHOULD ONLY BE
REPLACED WITH THE SAME TYPE AND RATING OF FUSE.
The following steps must be performed to replace the mains fuses, which are
located by the power cable connection, in the rear panel of the instrument.
1. Switch off the instrument and unplug the power cord.
Fuse
Compartment
2. Open the fuse compartment, by inserting a screw driver into the slot in the
right hand side of the compartment. Remove the compartment out and to the
right.
Fuses
3. Remove the fuses and replace them.

4. Ensure that the fuses have the correct rating.
T 1,6 A / 2 5 0 V (slow blow)
5. Replace the fuse compartment.
6. Reconnect the power cord and switch the instrument on
WARNING: If the fuse continues to blow, please call for service.

6.3 Cleaning Procedures

All parts of the instrument that come into contact with potentially
infectious material must be treated as potentially infectious areas. It is
advisable to wear gloves when performing the measurement procedure
and also when making adjustments to the instrument.
6.3i Daily Cleaning

The most important cleaning procedure for this instrument is to rinse the liquid
system with distilled water before the instrument is left to stand or switched off at
the end of each day.
If the manifold is not rinsed, the needles will become blocked. This will
result in the manifold either needing expensive repairs or it could
;
become completely ruined. '••'••u: : '
6.3U Monthly Cleaning

To ensure that the manifold does not become blocked by any particles which may
not be washed out by the rinsing procedures, it should be removed from the
instrument and thoroughly cleaned at least once a month.
See page 6 - 2 for details of how to clean the manifold.
6.4 Rinse Modes

There are four Rinse modes to flush the liquid system and prevent needle
blockages. They should be carried out when the instrument is left to stand or is
switched off at the end of working.
The Rinse modes are:
Rinse Soak
Rinse Day
Rinse Night
Rinse Auto

6.4i Rinse: Soak

This procedure is used if the instrument is to be left to stand for a short time.
(1/2 hr. or less).
With this procedure you can use either distilled water or wash solution.
r> Rinse: Soak Select and confirm Soak Rinse procedure

+ other yes
Soak: CHI Select required channel (1-4)

+ exit yes
I J
Rinse Solution ? Confirm that the rinsing solution
exit yes and the tube are in the bottle
I J
Waste Bottle OK? Confirm waste bottle is empty
exit yes
1
The waste sink is filled with solution
and the manifold is lowered into it
Soaking Manifold left in solution until Stop key pressed

Stop
Run XX:yyyyyyy Standby mode

+ other yes Washing procedure can be performed

6.4/7 Rinse: Day

This procedure is used to rinse the wash solution system if the instrument is to be
left standing for a longer time. Alternatively it can be used to rinse the wash
solution system after the instrument has been left for a long time.
With this procedure you can use either distilled water or wash solution.
If the instrument is left to stand for 1 hr to 1/2 day, wash solution can be used, for
longer times use distilled water.
r> Rinse: Day Select and confirm Day Rinse procedure

+ other yes
Day: CHI Select required channel (1-4)

+ exit yes
J
> V
Rinse Solution ? Confirm rinsing solution and tube in bottle
exit yes
V
\
exit yes
V
Rinse ChX YY sec Wash system rinsed for set rinse time
Stop
The waste sink is filled with solution and

the manifold is lowered into it
V
Soaking Manifold left in solution until
Stop Stop key pressed

+ other yes
Washing Procedure can be performed

6.4/77 Rinse: Night

This procedure is used to thoroughly rinse the wash solution system and leave
the manifold soaking in the waste sink full of solution at the end of working. This
procedure requires distilled water.
Rinse: Night Select and confirm Night Rinse procedure

+ other yes
Night: CHI Select required channel (1 - 4 or ALL)

+ exit yes
1
Rinse Solution ? Confirm rinsing solution and tube in bottle
exit yes
J
exit yes
1
I
Stop
The waste sink is filled with the distilled

water and the manifold is lowered into it
V
Soaking xx sec Manifold left in solution for set soak time (1 min)
Stop
Stop
1
I The waste sink is filled with the distilled water
and the manifold is lowered into it.
V
Soaking Manifold left in solution until Stop key pressed
Stop

+ other yes Washing procedure can be performed
6.4iv Rinse: Auto

This procedure is the same as the Rinse: Day procedure, except that the rinsing
procedure is automatically repeated after a set repeat time. The repeat time can
be set in the Adjust menu between 1 and 24 hrs.

6.5 Instrument Disinfection

All parts of the instrument that come into contact with potentially infectious
material must be treated as potentially infectious areas.
It is advisable to wear gloves when performing the measurement procedure

and also when making adjustments to the instrument.
It is very important that the instrument is thoroughly disinfected before it is

removed from the laboratory or any servicing is performed on it.
Before the instrument is returned to the distributor for servicing, it must be
disinfected and a disinfection certificate completed. If a disinfection certificate is
not supplied, the instrument may not be accepted by the servicing center or it may
be held by the customs authorities.
6.5i Disinfection Procedure
Important
STOP Before starting the disinfection procedure use a rinse procedure
(Rinse Day) with distilled / deionized water (lab quality) to flush the system.
If the laboratory has no specific disinfection procedure, the following procedure

should be used to disinfect the instrument.
The instrument should be disinfected using one of the following solutions:
Lysetol Manufacturer: Schulke & Mayr Ges.m.b.H.
Aseptisol Manufacturer: Bode Chemie Hamburg
If neither of these solutions are available 70% ethanol should be used as an
alternative.
WARNING
THE DISINFECTION PROCEDURE SHOULD BE PERFORMED BY
AUTHORIZED TRAINED PERSONNEL IN A WELL VENTILATED ROOM
WEARING DISPOSABLE GLOVES AND PROTECTIVE
GLASSES AND CLOTHING.
Please note that the disinfectant can influence the performance of your instrument
if it applied inside the instrument.
The following procedure should be used to disinfect the instrument.
1. Wear protective gloves, protective glasses and protective clothing.
2. Prepare an autoclaveable bag for all disposables used during the disinfection
procedure and label it with autoclave tape.
3. Rinse the complete pump and tube system with the disinfectant. Fill the
system with the disinfectant solution and allow a contact time of five hours.
4. Disconnect the instrument from the mains power supply.
5. Disconnect the instrument from any accessories that are used i.e. printer,
computer, etc. Accessories that should be shipped together with the
instrument have to be included in the disinfection procedure.

6. Carefully spray the disinfectant solution (or use a disposable soft tissue
paper towel soaked in the disinfectant) on all outer surfaces of the
instrument.
7. After a minimum contact time of 10 minutes, repeat step 6 of this procedure.
8. After a contact time of five hours wipe the instrument using a soft paper towel
and a mild detergent or distilled water to remove all traces of the disinfectant.
9. Wipe dry the outer surfaces of the instrument.
10. Pack the instrument and its accessories.
11. Disinfect your hands and clean them with a mild detergent.
12. Complete a disinfection certificate and attach it to the outside of the
box so that it is clearly visible. See below for an example of the
disinfection certificate.
I declare that the instrument in this package has never been exposed to any
hazardous biological material or that it has been decontaminated or
disinfected to remove or inactivate any biological material which could be
dangerous to the service personnel.
Name:
Firm:
Address:
Country:
Signature:

The following labels can be used to return the instrument to the servicing center
for repair.
Name:
Firm:
Address:
Country:
Signature:
Name:
Firm:
Address:
Country:
Signature:

7. Service Menu
7. Service Menu
7.1 Introduction
This chapter gives the instructions on how to use the Service submenu,
The Service submenu has the following options:
Clear All Procedure to clear all the defined programs and

settings from the instrument's memory.
Program Access Procedure to select if access to the programming

procedure is allowed.
Adjust Access Procedure to select if access to the Adjust menu is

allowed.
Header Procedure for defining the Start-up header for the

instrument.
Channels Procedure for setting the number of dispensing

channels that are used.
Skip Messages Procedure to set if the warning messages are to

be displayed.
Duration Test For service technician only,

Function Test For service technician only
Adj. Disp. Pump. For service technician only
Select Options For service technician only
Adj. Prime Pos. For service technician only
Adj. Plate Ref. For service technician only

7. Service Menu
Service
other yes
Code:
Enter required code
X X X X
Clear all programmes and settings from memory

Clear All ?
Attention: This deletes the parameter settings which
yes exit no
require special tools to be redefined
Prog Access ON Select access to programming procedure

+ exit yes If access is off the program menu is omitted
from the Mode Selection menu.
Adj. Access: ON Select access to Adjust menu

+ exit yes If access is off the Adjust menu is omitted
from the Mode Selection menu.
Header:XXXXXXXX Set Header

Set exit yes
Set number of dispensing channels fitted

Channels: X
+ exit yes (1-4)
Skip Messages: Select if warning message are to be skipped

yes exit no
Duration Test
yes exit no
Function Test For service technician only

yes exit no
Select Options For service technician only

yes exit no
Adj Dispens Pump

yes exit no
Adj.Prime Pos.
yes exit no
Adj.Plate Ref.
yes exit no For service technician only
Service End
yes other Exit Service menu
Standby Mode

7. Service Menu
7.2 Skip Messages

This option is used to select if the warning messages that are displayed when
performing a procedure, are to be displayed.
Skip Messages:
yes exit no
Channel primed? Select if this message is to be displayed

show exit skip Press show to display message
Press skip to omit message
\
Plate inserted ?
Select if this message is to be displayed
\
Waste Bottle OK?
Select if this message is to be displayed
\<
Rinse Solution ? Select if this message is to be displayed
>
Prime Solution ? Select if this message is to be displayed
<
You should Rinse Select if this message is to be displayed
i
Skip Messages:
yes no
Service Duration Test

other yes yes exit no

7. Service Menu
Duration Test
This option is only for use by the authorized service technician.
Function Test
Select Options
Adjust Dispensing Pump

WARNING: DO NOT ENTER THIS OPTION
Adj. Prime Pos.

Adj. Plate Ref.


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OEM Operating Manual for

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0-2 Columbus OEM Operating Manual

6. Cleaning and Maintenance

Columbus OEM Operating Manual 0-3

Columbus OEM Operating Manual 1 -1

1.2 Instrument Specifications

1 -2 Columbus OEM Operating Manual

The instruments conform to the legal norms at date.

Columbus OEM Operating Manual 1 -3

1.3 Instrument Description

Manifold Arm illifiill

. • • . . ' : : ' . . - C . - . ' . . : • " . ' • " • • ' . ] ' .

1.3i Rear Panel Connections

Hand held Bottle Holder with Printer Connector Aerosol Waste

All connected devices must be proved and listed with regulations

1 -4 Columbus OEM Operating Manual

1.3H Connection Diagram

Hand held Barcode

Columbus OEM Operating Manual 1 -5

7.3/7/ Instrument Options

Barcode Pen HBCS-A300 pen (Hewlett Packard) or a compatible pen

Printer External printer for printing the washing protocol.

Manifold Automatic detection for the type of manifold fitted

Aerosol Special manifold and pump to aspirate any aerosol vapors

Liquid Channel Option to upgrade the number of liquid channels from 1 to a

1 -6 Columbus OEM Operating Manual

Columbus PC Consisting of WinWash and Download including the

Firmware Update Consisting of the Download software, the latest version of

Drip Mode Drip Mode allows a wash buffer to be added dropwise.

1.3iv Liquid System Diagram

Columbus OEM Operating Manual 1 -7

1.4 Instrument Software Features

1.4i Software Menus

1.5 Washing Sequence Modes

1.5i Washing Modes

Normal Washing Overflow Washing

Columbus OEM Operating Manual 1 -9

1.5H Aspirating Positions

Crosswise Aspiration for Flat Bottom Wells

Aspirate position 1 Aspirate position 2

1.6 Rinse Modes

1 -10 Columbus OEM Operating Manual

2.1 Unpacking and Inspection

• Bottle set containing:

Liquid Sensor System Accessory package

Columbus OEM Operating Manual 2-1

2.2 Unpacking Procedure

2.3 Power Requirements

2 -2 Columbus OEM Operating Manual

2.4 Installation Procedure

2.41 Connecting the Waste Tubing

Turn the instrument back to the normal position.

Columbus OEM Operating Manual 2-3

Instrument with Aerosol Protection Option

Turn the instrument back to the normal position.

2-4 Columbus OEM Operating Manual

2.4/7 Fitting the Manifold

Manifold for the Standard Instrument

Columbus OEM Operating Manual 2-5

Manifold for Instrument with Aerosol Aspiration and Fill Verification

Aerosol Tube Connectors yellow

2-6 Columbus OEM Operating Manual