Beckman Coulter Optima LE-80K Instruction Manual

TM

Optima™ LE-80K

Preparative Ultracentrifuge

LLE7/8-IM-5

Instruction Manual

Published by the Centrifuge Instrument Systems Development Center of Beckman Coulter, Inc., Palo Alto, California 94304

Symbol
Symbol
Symbole
Símbolo
Simbolo

!

Title / Titel / Titre / Titulo / Titolo /

Dangerous voltage
Gefährliche elektrische Spannung
Courant haute tension
Voltaje peligroso
Pericolo: alta tensione

Attention, consult accompanying documents
Achtung! Begleitpapiere beachten!
Attention, consulter les documents joints
Atención, consulte los documentos adjuntos
Attenzione: consultare le informazioni allegate

On (power)
Ein (Netzverbindung)
Marche (mise sous tension)
Encendido
Acceso (sotto tensione)

Off (power)
Aus (Netzverbindung)
Arrêt (mise hors tension)
Apagado
Spento (fuori tensione)

Protective earth (ground)
Schutzleiteranschluß
Liaison à la terre
Puesta a tierra de protección
Collegamento di protezione a terra

Earth (ground)
Erde
Terre
Tierra
Scarica a terra

!

This safety notice summarizes information basic to the safe operation of the equipment
described in this manual. The international symbol displayed above is a reminder that all
safety instructions should be read and understood before installation, operation, mainte­nance, or repair of this instrument. When you see the symbol on other pages, pay special
attention to the safety information presented. Observance of safety precautions will also
help to avoid actions that could damage or adversely affect the performance of the
equipment.

Other symbols may also be displayed on the equipment. These are reproduced and
described on the inside of the front cover.

Safety During Installation and/or Maintenance

SAFETY NOTICE

This instrument is designed to be installed by a Beckman Coulter Field Service
representative. Installation by anyone other than authorized Beckman Coulter personnel
invalidates any warranty covering the instrument. Also, if the instrument needs to be
moved, a Beckman Coulter Field Service representative must reinstall and relevel the
instrument in its new location.

Any servicing of this equipment that requires removal of any covers can expose parts
which involve the risk of electric shock or personal injury. Make sure that the power
switch is turned off and the instrument is disconnected from the main power source,
and refer such servicing to qualified personnel.

Electrical Safety

To reduce the risk of electrical shock, this instrument uses a three-wire electrical cord and
plug to connect this equipment to earth-ground. Make sure that the matching wall outlet
receptacle is properly wired and earth-grounded.

Do not place containers holding liquid on or near the chamber door. If they spill, liquid
may get into the instrument and damage electrical or mechanical components.

Safety Against Risk of Fire

Fuses protect certain electrical circuits within this instrument against overcurrent condi­tions. For continued protection against the risk of fire, replace only with the same type and
rating specified.

This instrument is not designed for use with materials capable of developing flammable
or explosive vapors. Do not centrifuge such materials (for example, chloroform or ethyl
alcohol) in this instrument nor handle or store them near the centrifuge.

.

Mechanical Safety

For safe operation of the equipment, observe the following:

• Use only the Beckman Coulter rotors and accessories designed for use in this
instrument.

• Do not exceed the maximum rated speed of the rotor in use.

• NEVER attempt to slow or stop a rotor by hand.

• Do not move the centrifuge while the drive motor is spinning.

• In the event of a power failure, do not attempt to retrieve the sample from the instru­ment for at least one hour. Then follow the instructions for recovery of the sample
under

TROUBLESHOO TING AND MAINTENANCE

Chemical and Biological Safety

Normal operation may involve the use of solutions and test samples that are pathogenic,
toxic, or radioactive. Such materials should not be used in this instrument, however, unless

all necessary safety precautions are taken .

• Handle body fluids with care because they can transmit disease. No known test offers
complete assurance that they are free of micro-organisms. some of the most virulent—
Hepatitis (B and C) and HIV (I–V) viruses, atypical mycobacterium, and certain
systemic fungi—further emphasize the need for aerosol protection. Handle other infec­tious samples according to good laboratory procedures and methods to prevent spread
of disease. Because spills may generate aerosols, observe proper safety precautions for
aerosol containment. Do not run toxic, pathogenic, or radioactive materials in a rotor
without taking appropriate safety precautions. Biosafe containment should be used
when Risk Group II materials (as identified in the World Health Organization

tory Biosafety Manual

) are handled; materials of a higher group require more than one

Labora-

level of protection.

• Dispose of all waste solutions according to appropriate environmental health and safety
guidelines.

It is your responsibility to decontaminate the instrument and accessories before
requesting service by Beckman Coulter Field Service.

LLE7/8-IM-5

January 2003

Optima™ LE-80K

Preparative Ultracentrifuge

Instruction Manual

© 2003 Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Printed in the U.S.A.

Published by the Centrifuge Instrument Systems Development Center of Beckman Coulter, Inc., Palo Alto, California 94304

I.S. EN ISO 9001

Contents



Page

INTRODUCTION

Instrument Certification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii

Scope of this Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii

Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . viii

Radio Interference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ix

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xi

Installation Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xii

SECTION 1: DESCRIPTION

Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

Standby Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

Control Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

Hardkeys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Displays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Run Status Indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Diagnostic Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Rotor Chamber. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Vacuum System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Temperature Sensing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Temperature Control System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Overspeed System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Rotor Energy System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

Drive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

Name Rating Plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

SECTION 2: RUN PREPARATION

Entering Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

Standard Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Keypad. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

(Clear Entry) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

_')a

ENTER/RECALL

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

iii

iv























Page

Parameter Keys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

_74))(a

_8-1)a

ω

_,30(a

_8)14a

_%'')0a

_()')0a

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

2

(Accumulated Centrifugal Effect) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

t

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

(Temperature). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

(Acceleration). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

(Deceleration). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Programmed Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

_463+a

(Program) and

_7%:)a

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Activation Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

_:%'991a

_78%68a

_7834a

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

Delayed Start Program Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

Entering Program 0 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

Running Program 0 with a Second Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

SECTION 3: RUN PROCEDURE

Standard Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Programmed Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Delayed Start Program Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

Points to Remember . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

SECTION 4: TROUBLESHOOTING AND MAINTENANCE

In Case of Power Failure During the Run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

Retrieving Your Sample. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

Diagnostic Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7

Rotor Chamber. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7

Decontamination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Sterilization and Disinfection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Storage and Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Supply List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10

Warranty

Illustrations

Tables

Page

Figure 1-1. The Control Panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Figure 1-2. The Rotor Chamber. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Figure 4-1. Removing the Control Head Cover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

Figure 4-2. Depressing the Latch to Loosen the Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4

Figure 4-3. Interior View of Instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

Figure 4-4. Reinstalling the Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

Figure 4-5. Location of Diagnostic Messages on the Control Panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7

Page

Table 1-1. Run Status Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Table 2-1. Vacuum LEDs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

Table 4-1. Diagnostic Troubleshooting Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8

v

INSTRUMENT CERTIFICATION

To assure full system quality, the Beckman Coulter Optima™

LE-80K ultracentrifuges have been manufactured in an NSAI-

registered ISO 9001 facility. They have been designed and tested to

meet the laboratory equipment safety standards and regulations (only

when used with Beckman Coulter rotors) of CSA and CE Mark.

Introduction

SCOPE OF THIS MANUAL

This manual is designed to familiarize you with the Beckman Coulter

Optima LE-80K Preparative Ultracentrifuge—its functions, specifi-

cations, operation, and routine operator care and maintenance.

• The following introductory pages contain the instrument specifica-

• Section 1 provides a brief description of the instrument, the

• Section 2 explains how to use the control panel to enter run

• Section 3 covers operating procedures for both kinds of runs.

• Section 4 lists possible malfunctions, together with probable

We recommend that you read this entire manual, especially the

SAFETY NOTICE

or performing maintenance on this instrument.

tions and preinstallation requirements.

operating controls, and indicators.

parameters for standard and programmed operation.

causes and corrective actions, and maintenance procedures.

and all safety-related information, before operating

vii

Introduction

CONVENTIONS

➠

NOTE

If the Optima LE-80K is used in a manner other
than specified in this manual, the safety and
performance of this instrument could be
impaired. Further, the use of any equipment
other than that intended for use by Beckman
Coulter has not been evaluated for safety. Use of
any equipment not specifically recommended in
this manual is the sole responsibility of the user.

NOTES, CAUTIONS, AND WARNINGS

Certain symbols are used throughout this manual to call attention to

safety-related and other important information. The symbols used and

their definitions are as follows:

➠

!

NOTE

Used to call attention to information that should
be followed during installation, use, and/or
servicing of the equipment.

CAUTION

Used to indicate a potentially hazardous situa­tion which, if not avoided, may result in minor or
moderate injury and/or mechanical damage. It is
also used to alert against unsafe practices.

viii

!

WARNING

Used whenever an action or condition may
potentially cause serious personal injury or
loss of life. Mechanical damage may also
result.

TYPOGRAPHIC CONVENTIONS

ix



Introduction

WARNING

Indicates high voltage or risk of electric
shock. Refer servicing of all areas displaying
this symbol to service personnel.

Certain typographic conventions are used throughout this manual to

distinguish names of user interface components, such as keys and

displays.

RADIO INTERFERENCE

• Key names (for example,

_78%68a

ENTER/RECALL

or ) appear in

capital letters within boxes.

•

Display names

(for example,

TEMP°C

or

SPEED-RPM

) appear

in bold type.

This instrument has been tested and found to comply with the limits

for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of FCC Rules. These

limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful

interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environ-

ment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio

frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with

this instruction manual, may cause interference to radio communica-

tions. Operation of this equipment in a residential area may cause

interference, in which case the user will be required to correct the

interference at his or her own expense.

Introduction

CANADIAN REGULATIONS

x

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio

noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the radio interfer-

ence regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.

Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques

dépassant les limites applicables aux appareils numériques de Classe

A prescrites dans le reglement sur le brouillage radioelectrique édicté

par le Ministère des Communications du Canada.

xi

t

Introduction

M

U

U

C

A

V

89

MP–˚C

TE

ME–HR:MIN

I

T

M

P

–R

D

E

E

P

S

µ

–

M

U

U

C

A

V

ROGHOLD

P

2

t

w

CEL

E

D

EL

C

C

A

7

D

E

E

P

S

6

5

4

START

123

ME

I

T

CE

0

STOP

STOP

L

L

A

C

TEMP

E

/R

R

E

T

EN

E

V

SA

SPECIFICATIONS

CONTROL FEATURES

X 10,000

POWER OFF

Only values with tolerances or limits are guaranteed data. Values

without tolerances are informative data, without performance

guarantee.

Speed

Set speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1000 rpm to 80 000 rpm in increments of 100 rpm

Speed control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . actual rotor speed will be ±50 rpm of the set speed (above 1000 rpm)

Speed display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . indicates rotor speed in increments of 10 rpm at speeds below 1000 rpm,

and increments of 100 rpm at speed above 1000 rpm

Time

Set time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 99 hours and 59 minutes; HOLD for runs of unspecified length

Time display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . indicates time remaining in timed runs, time elapsed in HOLD runs, or

estimated time remaining in

2

ω

runs

Rotor Temperature

Set temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 to 40°C in increments of 1°C

Temperature control. . . . . . . . . . . . . ±1°C of set temperature

Temperature display. . . . . . . . . . . . . indicates rotor temperature in increments of 0.1°C

Temperature stability . . . . . . . . . . . . within 0.3°C of set after equilibrium is reached

Introduction

ω

Acceleration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . selection from two profiles: maximum acceleration from 0 rpm to set speed,

Deceleration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . selection from three profiles: full dynamic braking to 0 rpm, slow (full brake

Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . standard, programmed, or delayed start; instrument memory can store up to

2

Integrator

2

Set

ω

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 9.99 × 10

2

ω

display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . shows accumulated centrifugal force to three significant digits

(in exponential notation)

or slow acceleration from 0 to 500 rpm, followed by maximum acceleration

to set speed

to 500 rpm followed by reduced braking to a gentle stop), or no brake

nine individual programs

14

radians squared per second

t

t

t

OPERATIONAL FEATURES

Revolution Counter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . displays accumulated total number of rotor revolutions in tens of thousands

Barrier Ring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41-mm (1.63-in.) heat-treated steel alloy armor ring surrounded by a 12-mm

(0.50-in.) steel vacuum chamber to provide full protection for the operator

Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17.5-mm (0.69-in.) high-strength structural steel

Vacuum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . diffusion pump in series with a mechanical pump reduces chamber pressure

to below 5 microns (0.7 Pa)

Instrument Classification . . . . . . . . . R (uses all Beckman Coulter preparative rotors except Types 35 and

42.1 rotors with serial numbers 1299 or lower); not equipped for zonal or

continuous-flow operation

INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS

!

CAUTION

Do not attempt to install or turn on the power
to the instrument. Its purchase price includes
installation by Beckman Coulter Field Service.
Installation by anyone other than authorized
Beckman Coulter personnel invalidates the
warranty.

xii

PREINSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS

Preinstallation requirements have been sent prior to shipment of the

instrument. (Copies are also attached to the shipping container.) The

following information is provided in case the ultracentrifuge must be

relocated. Contact your Beckman Coulter Field Service representa-

tive to adjust and level the instrument if it must be moved. (The pads

on each leveling leg are designed to prevent possible rotation of the

instrument in case of a rotor mishap.)

Electrical Data

Instrument rating: 220 to 240 VAC, 50 Hz, 20 A

Power line range: 180 to 264 VAC, 60 or 50 Hz (single-phase), 30 A

200 to 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 20 A

Introduction

To reduce the risk of electrical shock, this equipment uses a three-

wire electrical cord (1.8 m; 6 ft) and plug to connect the equipment

to earthground. In regions where the instrument is supplied with

an unterminated cord, a plug that meets local electrical and safety

requirements must be supplied. (Contact your local Beckman Coulter

office for specific information regarding these requirements.) See the

Table below for the required wire connections. Make sure that the

matching wall outlet receptacle is properly wired and earth-grounded.

30-ampere

Circuit

Protector

Measured
Line Voltage

30-ampere

Circuit

Protector

Earth

Ground

Wall Outlet:
Hubbell 9330,
Bryant 96-30-FR,
or Equivalent
(NEMA 6-30 R)

North
American
Plug

xiii

Introduction

Required Wire Connections

Space

Wire Insulation

Color

Green/Yellow Earth ground

Light Blue Neutral N L
Brown Live or Line L L

Terminal

Harmonized North American

Symbol

To ensure safety, the instrument should be wired to a remote emer-

gency switch (preferably outside the room where the centrifuge is

housed, or adjacent to the exit from that room), in order to disconnect

the instrument from the main power source in case of a malfunction.

Locate the Optima LE-80K in a clean, safe, uncluttered environment.

Be sure to provide a 5.1-cm (2-in.) clearance on each side of the

instrument, as the feet extend about 5.1 cm (2 in.) beyond the instru-

ment. (The pads under each foot have been designed to prevent

possible rotation of the instrument in the event of a rotor mishap.)

A 15.2-cm (6-in.) clearance is required at the rear of the instrument

for servicing the control panel and to ensure sufficient air ventilation

during operation.

xiv

The instrument will operate within specifications in a laboratory with

ambient temperatures ranging from 15 to 40°C.

!

WARNING

Do not place the instrument near areas
containing flammable reagents or
combustible fluids.

15.2
6

cm

in.

67.3

26.5

5.1

Introduction

94.0
37

2

5.1
2

PHYSICAL DATA

Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 465 kg (1025 lb)

Height (overall) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120.7 cm (47.5 in.)

Width. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94.0 cm (37 in.)

Depth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67.3 cm (26.5 in.)

Clearances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.1 cm (2 in.) sides;

15.2 cm (6 in.) rear

Finish. . . . . . . . . . . . . urethane paint on top surface; general-purpose paint

on other surfaces; coated polycarbonate finish on control panel

Maximum heat dissipation into the room . . . . . . . . . 1.0 kW (3400 Btu/hr)

Humidity restrictions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . <95% (non-condensing)

Noise level measured 0.91 m (3 ft) in front of the instrument . . . . . .57 dBa

Installation category . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . II

Pollution degree. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

xv

POWER

1

Description

This section describes major instrument components.

STANDBY MODE

A circuit breaker, labeled I (on) and O (off), is located on the right
side of the instrument and controls electrical power to the instrument.
Power may be left ON at all times (see STANDBY MODE below)
except in the case of an emergency or when maintenance is required.

A red POWER OFF button is provided on the neck of the control
head for your convenience (see Figure 1-1). Pressing the POWER
OFF button trips the circuit breaker to the off position. To return
power to the instrument, the circuit breaker must be returned to the
up position.

When the instrument is at rest, it automatically goes into standby
mode. In this condition, only minimal power is used by the instru­ment. To restore the instrument to fully operational mode, press
any key.

CONTROL PANEL

Figure 1-1 shows the Optima LE-80K control panel, which includes a
video display and keys for entering run information.

1-1

Description

Location of

Diagnostic

Messages

Parameter

Keys

SPEED–RPM TIME–HR:MIN TEMP–˚C

VACUUM–µ

2

tDECELACCEL

X 10,000

SAVEPROGHOLDw

Figure 1-1. The Control Panel

Parameter

Keys Keypad

SPEED

TIME

TEMP

789

456

123

0

ENTER/RECALL

POWER OFF

Activation

Keys

VACUUM

START

CE

STOP

HARDKEYS

DISPLAYS

•Parameter hardkeys are used to enter the run conditions. They are

_74))(a, _8-1)a, and _8)14a to the left of the keypad and _%'')0a,
_()')0a, , _,30(a, _463+a, and _7%:)a along the bottom of the

2

ω

t

display area.

• Activation keys control specific ultracentrifuge functions. These

are

_:%'991a,_78%68a and _7834a, located to the right of the

keypad.

The keypad is used to enter numerical values. It consists of
the numbers 0 through 9, a

ENTER/RECALL

key.

_')a (clear entry) key, and an

Digital displays indicate rotor speed, run time, rotor temperature, the

2

ω

t value (when in that mode), and the selected program number (if

used). The displays serve a dual purpose.

1-2

Actual (Current) Values

Set V alues

Description

When the power is on, the displays show actual operating conditions
at all times except when the instrument is in editing mode or when

ENTER/RECALL

has been pressed (see below).

Set values are the run conditions entered by the user. When you press
a parameter key, the associated display blinks to indicate that a value
can be entered or modified. This is referred to as the “editing” mode.

The display continues to blink until you press another parameter key

ENTER/RECALL

or . If you press another parameter key, the associated
display begins to blink and the set values continue to be displayed.
If you press , the instrument displays the set values for

ENTER/RECALL

5 seconds, then exits the editing mode and returns to showing actual
conditions. Set values remain in memory until new v alues are entered.

RUN STATUS INDICATORS

DIAGNOSTIC MESSAGES

Whenever you press , the instrument displays the set

ENTER/RECALL

values for 5 seconds, then returns to showing actual conditions.

Run indicators are provided in the form of green and red LEDs to
indicate the status of the instrument. Figure 1-1 shows the location of
the LEDs on the control panel and Table 1-1 describes the meaning of
each. (Unless otherwise noted, the LEDs appear above their respec­tive keys.)

Diagnostic messages appear as red LEDs under the SPEED display
(see Figure 1-1) to alert you to conditions that may need attention.
The indicators are not visible unless an abnormal condition occurs.

The meanings of the diagnostic messages, as well as appropriate
actions to take, are discussed in Section 4,

MAINTENANCE.

TROUBLESHOO TING AND

1-3

Description

Table 1-1. Run Status Indicators

Key

Pressed

START A green LED on the _78%68a key lights when the key has been pressed. It blinks until the rotor

reaches set speed and then remains lit until the run ends or_7834a is pressed.

STOP A green LED on the_7834a key lights when either the key is pressed or the rotor begins to decel-

erate. It blinks until the rotor comes to a stop.
ACCEL “MAX” or “SLOW” indicates which acceleration profile has been selected.
DECEL “MAX,” “SLOW,” or “NO BRAKE” indicates which deceleration profile has been selected.

Description of Run Status Indicators

2

ω

t “
HOLD “HOLD” indicates that the ultracentrifuge is in the HOLD mode.
PROG A number (1 through 9) above the _463+a (program) key indicates the number of the stored

SAVE “SAVE” blinks to indicates that you may save the program values just entered. Press _7%:)a and

VACUUM “750,” “200,” and “<20” (microns)— located in the upper display—indicate the approximate

2

ω

t ” indicates that the ultracentrifuge is in the

program that has been selected for the run.

the values will be saved in memory under the assigned program number.

chamber pressure as the chamber is being evacuated. Only one LED will be on continuously at
any given time. Once below 20 microns the “<20” LED shines continuously until the _:%'991a key
is pressed to vent the chamber. (The instrument will typically draw vacuum to 5 microns or less.)

2

ω

t mode.

DOOR

The chamber door is made of high-strength structural steel. A sole­noid interlock prevents it from being opened during operation. The
door can be opened only by using the door handle and only if the
power is on and the vacuum is off, with the chamber at atmospheric
pressure. Refer to Section 4 for instructions on accessing the chamber
to retrieve a sample in case of a power outage.

1-4

ROTOR CHAMBER

The rotor chamber is made of aluminum, coated with a chemical­resistant epoxy finish. The rotor drive spindle, radiometer,
photoelectric devices, and safety plate are visible in the bottom
of the chamber (Figure 1-2).

Description

Drive

Spindle

Safety

Plate

VACUUM SYSTEM

Photoelectric
Devices

Radiometer

Figure 1-2. The Rotor Chamber

The vacuum system is automatically activated when
and

_78%68a are pressed, or it may be turned on directly by pressing

the

_:%'991a key. Three vacuum LEDs, labeled 750, 200, and <20,

ENTER/RECALL

are located in the middle of the upper display to indicate the level of
chamber pressure in microns.

At the end of a run, the chamber vacuum must be vented (by pressing

_:%'991a) before the door can be opened. After the door is opened,

the chamber is brought to approximate room temperature to prevent
condensation from collecting in the chamber. To help keep the
chamber dry and clean, the door should be kept closed whenever
possible.

A purge system removes significant amounts of moisture from the
vacuum pump and chamber. If it takes a long time to pull a vacuum,
however, it is likely caused by excess moisture in the system. Refer
to Section 4 for information on correcting this condition.

1-5

Description

TEMPERATURE SENSING

TEMPERATURE CONTROL SYSTEM

Rotor temperature is monitored by a radiometer mounted in the
bottom of the rotor chamber (see Figure 1-2) when the chamber pres­sure is below 100 microns. Above 100 microns (or if the radiometer
fails), chamber temperature is measured by a thermistor mounted in
the chamber.

The instrument uses a solid-state thermoelectric refrigeration and
heating system, which eliminates the need for a conventional refriger­ation system and heater. Neither Freon

1

nor water is needed; the only

coolant required is forced air from the cooling fans.

OVERSPEED SYSTEM

After the power is turned on, the temperature control system is acti­vated when the door is closed and the vacuum system is turned on.
The rotor temperature is controlled to ±1°C of the set value. If the
temperature system malfunctions, the TEMP diagnostic message will
appear and the rotor will decelerate to a stop.

The overspeed system is a safety feature designed to ensure that the
rotor does not exceed its maximum allowable speed. This system
includes photoelectric sensors in the rotor chamber next to the drive
spindle (see Figure 1-2) and an overspeed disk on the bottom of the
rotor. Individual rotor manuals provide information on the correct
overspeed disks to be used with each rotor.

The overspeed disk has alternating light and dark sectors. As the rotor
spins, the passage of reflecting and nonreflecting sectors over the pho­toelectric device generates a series of pulses that are detected by elec­tronic circuitry and processed by the software.

1-6

1

Trademark of E. I. Du Pont de Nemours & Company.

After the rotor reaches 1000 rpm, the set speed is checked against the
overspeed disk. If the set speed is greater than the maximum speed
permitted by the disk, the speed setting is automatically lowered to
the disk’s maximum speed, but the run continues without interrup­tion. An error message is displayed to alert you to the change. (In
the

ω

ROTOR ENERGY SYSTEM

As the rotor accelerates between 15 000 and 21 000 rpm, rotor inertia
is measured and the rotor energy is calculated for the set speed. If the
calculated rotor energy is determined to be excessive, a SPEED diag­nostic message will appear and the instrument will immediately shut
down, thus providing a redundant safety check.

2

ω

t mode, the time setting is recalculated to give an equivalent

2

t value.)

Description

DRIVE

NAME RATING PLATE

The instrument uses a frequency-controlled, air-cooled, direct-drive
induction motor that requires no gears or brushes. In addition, the
drive does not require an oil vacuum seal, external oil reservoir, or
continuously operating damper.

2

Externally cooled by forced air and
internally cooled by oil, the drive delivers ultra-smooth, quiet perfor­mance, with high tolerance of rotor imbalance.

A name rating plate is affixed to the rear of the instrument. Always
mention the serial number (located on the chamber door) and model
number when contacting Beckman Coulter regarding your Optima
LE-80K.

2

U.S. Pat. No. 4,846,773.

1-7

Run Preparation

This section explains how to enter run information.

2

ENTERING INFORMATION

Entering or modifying information is referred to as being in the
editing mode.

• Press the appropriate hardkey to enter or modify information or

•When you press a parameter key, the appropriate field on the

•While a field is still blinking, you can retrieve the original value

• Press

to access a specific function.

screen will begin to blink, indicating that you can enter or modify
the value in that field.

after having modified it by pressing that parameter key again.
The original value appears but the field continues to blink so that
you can either enter a new value or press
original one.

_)28)6a or another parameter key to save the entry. If the

entry is valid the field will stop blinking. If the entry is invalid,
the field will continue to blink, an error tone will sound, and a
message will be displayed to explain the error . Enter an acceptable
value as prompted.

_)28)6a to retain the

2-1

Run Preparation

STANDARD OPERATION

KEYPAD

aa

____''''))))aa

(CLEAR ENTRY)

Use the number keys, in sequence, to make numerical entries. As you
enter each digit, the digits already entered move one place to the left
in the display.

The

_')a key can clear a value after a parameter k ey has been pressed

(if the instrument is in the editing mode), or it can clear a diagnostic
message.

ENTER/RECALL

• Press

_')a once to clear a value while in the editing mode or to

clear a diagnostic message.

• Press

_')a a second time to exit from the editing mode. The field

will stop blinking and the actual values will reappear.

• Press to enter a setting into memory.

• Press and

• Press during a run to display the settings for

ENTER/RECALL

ENTER/RECALL

ENTER/RECALL

_78%68a within 5 seconds to start a run.

5 seconds. After 5 seconds, the displays show the actual conditions
once again.

• Press and

ENTER/RECALL

_7834a within 5 seconds to display the

STOP values (the values that existed when the rotor began
decelerating.)

2-2

PARAMETER KEYS

Follow the instructions below for using the parameter keys and
keypad to enter run settings.

Run Preparation

____77774444))))))))((((aa

aa

Run speed can be set between 1000 and 80 000 rpm in increments
of 100 rpm. Speeds between 0 and 1000 rpm are displayed in incre­ments of 10 (for example, 98
displayed in increments of 100 (for example, 45 6

0 rpm). Speeds above 1000 rpm are

00 rpm).

A delayed start program function automatically sets the speed at
“0” rpm. This function is described at the end of this section.

To enter or modify the set speed:

1. Press

_74))(a. The SPEED field blinks.

2. Use the keypad to enter or modify the speed. (The last two digits

are fixed as zeros and cannot be changed by keypad entries.) If
you try to enter an invalid number—such as 98 000 rpm—the
instrument will beep twice. Press

_')a to clear the value, then

enter a valid speed.

3. Press another parameter key or to save the set

ENTER/RECALL

speed.

Example: To enter 60 000 rpm as the set speed:

Press

_74))(a.
_a, _a, _a in that order.

Press
Press another parameter key or .

ENTER/RECALL

At 1000 rpm, the set speed is checked against the overspeed disk. If
the speed setting is greater than that allowed by the overspeed disk,
the run will continue, but the rotor speed will be lowered to the
maximum speed permitted by the disk. The TIME setting is also
changed to provide an equivalent

2

ω

t value, if in the

2

ω

t mode. A

SPEED diagnostic message will appear , indicating that these changes
have been made. Press

_')a to clear the message.

You may change the set speed at any time by repeating the steps in the
example. The rotor will accelerate or decelerate to the new speed.

The rotor will not accelerate beyond 3000 rpm until chamber pressure
drops below 750 microns. At that point, the rotor accelerates to set
speed.

If a speed-related malfunction occurs, the SPEED diagnostic
message will appear on the screen. Consult the Diagnostic Trouble­shooting Chart in Section 4 for further details.

2-3

Run Preparation

____8888----1111))))aa

aa

The run termination method depends on the run mode—TIME,

2

ω

t,

or HOLD. The information that appears in the TIME-HR: MIN
display also depends upon the mode selected.

Run time can be set up to 99 hours and 59 minutes. During the run,
the display indicates the time remaining in hours and minutes.
(When is pressed, however, the set time is shown for

ENTER/RECALL

5 seconds.)

To enter or modify the TIME setting (in TIME mode):

1. Press

_8-1)a. The TIME field blinks.

2. Use the keypad to enter or modify the run time. As each digit is

entered, the previous digit moves one place to the left.

3. Press another parameter key or to sav e the run time.

ENTER/RECALL

Example: To enter 16 hours and 30 minutes as the

run time:

Press

_8-1)a.
_a, _a, _a, _a in that order.

Press
Press another parameter key or .

ENTER/RECALL

If you entered a number that is between 60 and 99 minutes, the
instrument automatically recalculates the time in hours and minutes.

Example: If you enter

_a _a as your run time, the

instrument will change the entry to read
1:30.

After you press and

ENTER/RECALL

_78%68a to begin the run, the

instrument checks to make sure that a time entry has been made. (The
instrument cannot proceed without a valid entry for TIME,

2

ω

t, or
HOLD.) If you have not made an entry, the TIME field blinks and you
must enter one before the run can proceed.

The time begins counting down when the rotor begins to accelerate.
When the time remaining reaches zero, the rotor automatically decel­erates to a stop.

2-4

2



ω

t

(Accumulated
Centrifugal Effect)

2

The

ω

t display indicates the accumulated centrifugal effect in
radians squared per second, to three significant digits, using exponen­tial notation. The
per second. The

2

ω

t can be set for up to 9.99 × 1014radians squared

2

ω

t begins accumulating when and

ENTER/RECALL

Run Preparation

_78%68ahave been pressed and the rotor be gins spinning; deceleration

begins when the set value is reached.
There is no separate

2

ω

t display—the

SPEED display when the instrument is in the

2

ω

t values are shown in the

2

ω

t mode and the

key is pressed.

To enter or modify the

1. Press . The SPEED field blinks.

2

ω

t

2. Use the keypad to enter an

2

ω

t setting:

2

ω

t value. An “E” remains stationary in
the hundreds place to indicate that the last two places represent the
exponent. If you enter an invalid number, the instrument will beep
twice. Press

3. Press another parameter key or to save the
value. The

Example: To enter 3.24 × 10

_')a to clear the value, then enter a valid number.

2

ω

t indicator will light.

Press .
Press

2

ω

t

_a, _a, _a, _a, _a in that order . (The display

ENTER/RECALL

12

as the

ω

2

t value:

ω

will show “3.24E12.”)
Press another parameter key or .

ENTER/RECALL

2

ω

t

2

t

____,,,,33330000((((aa

When in the

2

set

ω

t value is reached) is shown in the TIME display. (If the calcu-

2

ω

t mode, a calculation of the time remaining (until the

lation exceeds 99 hours and 59 minutes, four dashes will appear in the
TIME display.)

After the run, pressing ,

ENTER/RECALL

will show the accumulated value for

_7834a, and in succession

2

ω

t (in the SPEED display)

2

ω

t

when the rotor began to decelerate. After 5 seconds, the display
returns to showing current conditions.

2

The

ω

t LED will remain on until a dif ferent run mode is selected as a

reminder that the instrument is still in the

2

ω

t from the previous run will automatically return to zero when

ENTER/RECALL

aa

The HOLD mode is used for runs of unspecified lengths. When

ENTER/RECALL

and

_78%68a are pressed to begin a new run.

is pressed while the instrument is in this mode, the

2

ω

t mode. The accumulated

word HOLD appears in the TIME display for 5 seconds. The display
then returns to showing the time elapsed since the beginning of
the run.

2-5

Run Preparation

To select the HOLD mode:

____8888))))11114444aaaa

(Temperature)

1. Press

_,30(a. The LED above the _,30(a key lights to indicate

that the instrument is in HOLD mode, and the word HOLD
appears in the TIME display.

2. Press the next parameter key or .

After and

ENTER/RECALL

_78%68a have been pressed, the run will

continue indefinitely until you press

ENTER/RECALL

_7834a to end it. If the run

exceeds 99 hours and 59 minutes, dashes appear in the TIME display.

The temperature can be set between 0 and 40°C in increments of 1°C.
If no other value has been entered, the instrument automatically
selects 25°C as the default value for the operating temperature.

To enter or modify the TEMP setting:

1. Press

_8)14a. The TEMP field blinks.

2. Use the keypad to enter or modify the temperature setting. If you
make an invalid entry, the instrument will beep twice. Press

_')a

to clear the entry, then enter a valid temperature setting.

3. Press another parameter key or to save the

ENTER/RECALL

temperature setting.

____%%%%''''''''))))0000aaaa

(Acceleration)

Example: To enter 20°C as the run temperature:

Press _8)14a.

_a, _a in that order.

Press
Press another parameter key or .

ENTER/RECALL

You may change the set temperature at any time by repeating the
steps in the example. The rotor temperature will be adjusted
accordingly.

Actual rotor temperature, after equilibration, is controlled to ±1°C
of the set value. If the temperature control system malfunctions, the
TEMP diagnostic message will light and the rotor will decelerate
to a stop.

The instrument has two acceleration profiles: maximum and slow.
(The default setting is MAX.) To select slow acceleration, press

_%'')0a. The SLOW run status indicator will light. The key acts as a

toggle switch; press it again to select MAX acceleration. Each time
you press the

_%'')0a key, the alternate choice will light.

2-6

Run Preparation

____(((())))''''))))0000aaaa

(Deceleration)

The instrument has three deceleration profiles: maximum, slow, and
no brake. (The default setting is MAX.) To select slow deceleration,
press
as a toggle switch; press it again to select NO BRAKE and again to
select MAX deceleration. Each time you press the
next choice in the series will light.

PROGRAMMED OPERATION

and

aa

(Program)

aa

The instrument internal memory is capable of holding up to nine sets
of user-specified run conditions, referred to as programs. Each
program is stored by number and can be recalled using the keypad.
Programs are retained in memory even when the power is turned off.

You can select an existing program by either pressing the program
number (1 to 9) using the keypad, or by pressing the
repeatedly until the desired set of parameters appears. (This is useful
if you do not remember the contents of a particular program or to scan
through available programs.)

____444466663333++++aa

____7777%%%%::::))))aa

_()')0a. The SLOW run status indicator will light. The k ey acts

_()')0a key, the

_463+a key

Follow the instructions below to create a new program or to modify
an existing one.

To create or modify a program:

1. Press

_463+a. If no program has been previously selected, a dash

will appear above the

_463+a key. Actual values remain in the

other displays.

2. Use the keypad to select a program number, which replaces
the dash in the display. (Or continue pressing

_463+a until the

program number appears.) The program number blinks to indicate
that you are editing the program.

3. Use the parameter keys and keypad to enter the run settings. After
all parameters have been entered, press . The SAVE

ENTER/RECALL

indicator blinks indicating that you may save the program.

4. Press

_7%:)a and the program will be stored in memory under the

assigned number. Actual values will reappear in the displays.

2-7

Run Preparation

To select a program for use:

ACTIVATION KEYS

____::::%%%%''''999999991111aa

aa

1. Press

_463+a.

2. Press the appropriate program number.

3. Press and

ENTER/RECALL

_78%68a.

To modify a parameter during the run without affecting the program,
change the setting in the normal manner, then press .
Do NOT press

_7%:)a. The instrument will run using the modified

ENTER/RECALL

settings, but the program itself will remain unchanged. The number
above the

_463+a key will go out to indicate that the instrument is

no longer running from program memory.

Use the activation keys to control the following ultracentrifuge
functions.

The vacuum system is activated automatically when you press

ENTER/RECALL

and

_78%68a to begin a run. To evacuate the chamber

at another time, make sure the chamber door is closed, then press

_:%'991a.

As the vacuum system begins to evacuate the chamber, a series of
three LEDs (labeled 750, 200, and <20 microns) blink, remain
lighted, or go off to allow you to monitor the change in pressure (see
Table 2-1). When the pressure drops below 20 microns, the < 20 LED
will remain lit until

_:%'991a is pressed to vent the chamber at the

end of the run.

Table 2-1. Vacuum LEDs

Pressure 750 LED 200 LED <20 LED

750 or above
220 to 750
20 to 200
<20

blinking
lit
off
off

off
blinking
lit
off

off
off
blinking
lit

2-8

Run Preparation

When the run begins, the rotor will not accelerate past 3000 rpm until
the chamber pressure drops below 750 microns. At that time, the rotor
accelerates to set speed.

____77778888%%%%66668888aa

____7777888833334444aa

aa

To vent the chamber, press

_:%'991a. The chamber door can be

opened only when the vacuum has been completely vented and the
rotor is at rest.

aa

Press and

_78%68a, the instrument will not be activated. If this occurs, press

After you have pressed and

ENTER/RECALL

ENTER/RECALL

_78%68a to begin a run. If you press only

and

_78%68a again to begin the run.

ENTER/RECALL

_78%68a, the instrument

checks for a setting in the TIME field. If there is no entry, the instru­ment beeps twice and the TIME display begins blinking. Enter a
value and press . Then press and

ENTER/RECALL ENTER/RECALL

_78%68a

again to begin the run.
As the rotor begins to accelerate, the green LED on the

_78%68a key

begins to blink. When the rotor reaches set speed, the LED stops
blinking and remains on until the run ends or

_7834a is pressed.

Use the _7834a key to do the following:

• Press

_7834a at any time to terminate the run. A green LED on the

key will blink to indicate that the rotor is decelerating; a tone will
sound when the rotor comes to a stop and the green LED will
turn off.

• Press and

ENTER/RECALL

run conditions that existed when the rotor began decelerating.
These are called the STOP values.

• Press ,

accumulated

ENTER/RECALL

2

ω

t at the time the rotor began decelerating. The

value is displayed in the SPEED display.

DELAYED START PROGRAM FUNCTION

The delayed start program function allows you to delay the start of a
run so that it begins and ends at the time you require—without you
being there to start the run. For example, if you require a four-hour
run to end at 8:00 am, you can program the instrument to hold the
rotor at a specified temperature and time at zero speed and then auto­matically begin the run at 4:00 am.

_7834a within 5 seconds to display the

_7834a, and in succession to display the

2

ω

t

2

ω

t

2-9

Run Preparation

ENTERING PROGRAM 0

To use the delayed start program function, a special program (called
program “0”) is created, followed by a second program that contains
the run conditions for the actual run. Follow the instructions below.

The first program—program 0—is used to delay the start of the run
until the required time. Enter the settings as follows.

1. Press

_463+a then _a on the keypad to access program 0. A

blinking zero appears above the
for program 0 are displayed.

2. Use the parameter keys and keypad to enter time and temperature
settings as required. You cannot change the speed setting, which
is set at zero. (If you try to change it, the instrument will signal
an error.)

3. Press . The SAVE message blinks to indicate that

ENTER/RECALL

you can save the program settings.

4. Press

_7%:)a to save program 0.

5. To exit from the program mode, press

RUNNING PROGRAM 0 WITH A SECOND PROGRAM

To run the delayed start program function, do the following.

_463+a key. The existing settings

_')a twice.

2-10

1. Press

_463+a then _a on the keypad to access program 0. A

blinking zero appears above the

_463+a key, and the display shows

the program 0 settings.

2. Use the keypad to select a second program from the stored
programs. The selected program settings appear in the display
and the program number appears in the

ENTER/RECALL

.

3. To begin the delayed start program function, press
and

_78%68a.

_463+a display. Press

ENTER/RECALL

The word “delay” appears in the SPEED display and the second
program number you selected appears in the

_463+a display.

Run Preparation

When the elapsed time in program 0 reaches zero, the second
program begins automatically.

Example: To run programs 0 and 3:

➠

_463+a, _a, _a, and .

Press
Press and

NOTE

ENTER/RECALL

If you change a run setting during program 0, the
second program is automatically canceled. The
instrument will stop at the end of
program 0.

ENTER/RECALL

_78%68a.

2-11

Run Procedure

This section summarizes standard and programmed operation as well
as the delayed start function. Use any of the acceptable Beckman
Coulter rotors, consulting the applicable rotor manual and Rotors
and Tubes for Preparative Ultracentrifuges (LR-IM) for instructions
on preparing the rotor and accessories for centrifugation. The
Optima LE-80K is not equipped for zonal or continuous-flow opera­tion. For fast temperature equilibration, refrigerate or warm the
rotor to the required temperature before the run.

3

!

WARNING

!

WARNING

Do not use the Optima LE-80K in the vicinity
of flammable liquids or vapors, and do not
run such materials in the instrument. Do not
lean on the instrument or place items on it
while it is operating.

Normal operation may involve the use of solu­tions and test samples that are pathogenic,
toxic, or radioactive. Operator error or tube
failure may generate aerosols. Do not run
toxic, pathogenic, or other hazardous
materials in this instrument unless you take
all appropriate safety precautions. Ask your
laboratory safety officer to advise you about
the level of containment required for your
application and the proper decontamination
or sterilization procedures to follow in the
event that fluids escape from containers.

3-1

Run Procedure

STANDARD OPERATION

The power must be turned on and the vacuum system turned off in
order to open the chamber door.

1. With the power on, open the chamber door, install the rotor, and
close the chamber door. Press

_:%'991a if you want to evacuate

the chamber now.

2. Enter the required run conditions (SPEED, TEMP, and TIME,
HOLD, or

2

ω

t).

3. Select ACCEL and DECEL profiles if required. Otherwise, the
instrument automatically selects maximum acceleration and
deceleration rates.

4. Press and

Press
for any reason). Runs in the timed and

ENTER/RECALL

ically activated now, unless you pressed

_7834a to terminate a run in the HOLD mode (or to stop any run

_78%68a. (The vacuum system is automat-

_:%'991a earlier.)

2

ω

t modes terminate automat­ically and the instrument sounds a tone to indicate the end of the run.
After the rotor has stopped, press

_:%'991a to vent the chamber.

Open the chamber door and remove the rotor. To keep the rotor
chamber clean and dry, keep the door closed between runs.

To repeat a run, press and

ENTER/RECALL

_78%68a.

3-2

PROGRAMMED OPERATION

1. With the power on, open the chamber door, install the rotor, and

close the chamber door. Press
the chamber now.

2. Press

press

3. Press and

system is automatically activated now, unless you pressed

_:%'991a earlier.)

_:%'991a if you want to evacuate

_463+a and use the keypad to select a program number. (Or
_463+a until the desired program appears.)

ENTER/RECALL

_78%68a to begin the run. (The vacuum

Run Procedure

Any of the run conditions can be changed while a programmed run is
in progress. However, such changes will affect only the current run.
To change a parameter during the run:

1. Press the appropriate parameter key (for example,

2. Enter the new value.

3. Press .

ENTER/RECALL

The run in progress will be modified accordingly.
Runs in the timed and

ω

set value is reached. After the rotor has stopped, press
vent the chamber.

Open the chamber door, remov e the rotor, and close the door. To keep
the rotor chamber clean and dry, keep the door closed between runs.

DELAYED START PROGRAM FUNCTION

1. With the power on, open the chamber door, install the rotor, and

close the chamber door.

_74))(a).

2

t modes terminate automatically when the

_:%'991a to

POINTS TO REMEMBER

2. Press

3. Press and

_463+a. Use the keypad to press _a and then a second

program number. Press .

ENTER/RECALL

ENTER/RECALL

_78%68a.

The word “delay” appears in the SPEED display and the second
program number appears in the

_463+a display. When the elapsed

time in program 0 reaches zero, the second program begins
automatically.

• Keep the chamber door closed whenever possible. This helps to

keep the chamber clean, as well as assuring optimum performance
of the vacuum system.

• For fast temperature equilibration, cool or warm the rotor to the

required temperature before the run.

3-3

Run Procedure

• Refer to the applicable rotor manual for complete instructions on

rotor preparation, use, and care.

• Refer to Section 4,

TROUBLESHOO TING AND MAINTENANCE, if

a diagnostic message flashes on the control panel during the run.

3-4

Troubleshooting

and Maintenance

This section lists possible malfunctions, together with probable
causes and corrective actions. Maintenance procedures are also
described. Refer to the applicable rotor manual for instructions on
the care of rotors and accessories. Troubleshooting and maintenance
not covered in this manual should be handled by Beckman Coulter
Field Service.

4

NOTE

➠

It is your responsibility to decontaminate the
instrument, as well as any rotors and/or accesso­ries, before requesting service by Beckman
Coulter Field Service.

IN CASE OF POWER FAILURE DURING THE RUN

If a power failure occurs during the run, the rotor begins to decelerate
with the brake off. If the rotor is still spinning above 1000 rpm when
power is restored, the instrument will resume operation and the
rotor will return to set speed with maximum acceleration. A PWR
diagnostic message will appear to alert you that a power outage
occurred.

If the rotor is spinning below 1000 rpm or has stopped when the
power is restored, the run automatically restarts. If the instrument is
in the TIME mode, it will automatically reset the TIME display to the
original set time. In the HOLD mode, the instrument will return to set
speed and elapsed time will begin to accumulate again from zero. A
PWR diagnostic message will appear to alert you that a power outage
occurred and that the run has been restarted automatically.

4-1

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

RETRIEVING YOUR SAMPLE

WARNING

!

WARNING

Any maintenance procedure requiring
removal of a panel exposes the operator to
the possibility of electrical shock and/or
mechanical injury. Theref ore, turn the power
off and disconnect the instrument from the
main power source, and refer such mainte­nance to service personnel.

NEVER attempt to slow or stop the rotor
by hand.

!

WARNING

The following procedure should be imple­mented only when absolutely necessary and
only by qualified service personnel.

If a power failure lasts for several hours, it may be necessary to
retrieve the sample from the rotor. (A rotor decelerating without the
brake may take hours to come to a complete stop.) To gain access to
the rotor, it will be necessary to remove the control head cover and
the front panel to disengage the door lock.

1. Locate the two metal latches (see Figure 4-1) at the lower outside

corners on the back of the control head. Use your fingers to
depress the latches to disengage the cover from the control head.
With both hands, lift it slightly and pull it toward you until it is
free. Set the cover aside in a safe place.

2. To remove the front panel, use a long, thin tool (about 1.5 mm in

diameter) to depress the latch (see Figure 4-2). While the latch is
depressed, use your free hand to lift the top panel until it stops,
remove the tool, then continue lifting the top panel to free the front
panel. Let the front panel tilt toward you.

4-2

3. Lift the front panel to free the bottom tabs that secure it in place.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

S

P

E

E

D

7

8

9

VA

C

U

U

M

45

6

TIME

12

3

ST

A

R

T

0

CE

T

E

MP

E

N

T

E

R

/

R

E

C

A

L

L

S

TOP

Cover Latch

Access to
Cover Latch

Figure 4-1. Removing the Control Head Cover

!

WARNING

After removing the panel, listen carefully
for any sounds coming from the drive. Then
touch the fan housing (Figure 4-3) to feel if it
is vibrating and listen again. Do not proceed
if any sound or vibration is emitted from the
housing.

4-3

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Top Panel Tabs

M

U

9

U
C
A

V

8

7

D
E
E

P
S

6

5

4

T
R
A
T

S

3

2

1

E
M
I

T

E
C

0

P
O
T
S

L

L

P

ECA

M

E

/R

T

R
TE
N

E

Front Panel Access Port

Front Panel Tabs

Figure 4-2. Depressing the Latch to Loosen the Front Panel

4. Vent the vacuum chamber by slowly turning the small setscrew on
the vacuum solenoid valve to the right (clockwise) until you hear
the air released into the chamber. If you hear a whining noise,
close the valve and wait, because the rotor is still spinning.

5. About 10 seconds after the hissing noise stops, turn the screw to
the left (counterclockwise) until it stops.

6. Push down on the interlock pin (Figure 4-3) with your finger while
opening the chamber door with your free hand. (If the rotor is still
spinning, close the door and wait.) Be very careful not to touch
any wires or circuitry.

4-4

Fan housing

Figure 4-3. Interior View of Instrument

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Spring-loaded
Interlock Pin

Door
Lock
System

Vacuum
Solenoid

Screw

7. After retrieving the sample, close the chamber door, then replace
the front panel on the instrument. Insert the tabs at the bottom of
the front panel onto the lip at the base of the instrument, being
sure to align the front panel with the side panels (see Figure 4-4).

8. Lift the front edge of the top panel a few inches and insert the
upper edge of the front panel under it. Push back gently to engage
the tabs, then down to activate the latch.

9. Replace the control head by sliding it along the small ridges pro­vided, making sure to clear the emergency PO WER OFF switch in
front. When the control head cover is correctly positioned, push it
until the latches snap shut and the cover is aligned with the rest of
the instrument panels.

!

WARNING

Do not attempt to run the instrument before
returning the front panel to its correct
position.

4-5

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Align Panel

M
U

9

U
C

VA

8

7

D

E
E
P

S

6

45

T

R
A
T
S

3

2

1

E
M
TI

E

C

0

TOP

S

L

CAL

MP

RE

E

/

T

R
E
T

N
E

Front Panel Tabs

DIAGNOSTIC MESSAGES

Figure 4-4. Reinstalling the Front Panel

Diagnostic messages appear as red LEDs at the left side of the upper
display (see Figure 4-5) to alert you to conditions that may need your
attention. A tone will sound and the appropriate message will blink
until you press the

_')a key. The diagnostic messages will reappear if

you attempt to restart the instrument before the problem is corrected.
Some of the messages are intended to provide cautionary information

that will not shut down a run in progress. Others indicate a user error.
For example, if you left the chamber door open when you pressed

_78%68a, the DOOR message would appear to let you kno w it must be

closed.
If the associated display is flashing when a diagnostic message

appears, a shut-down malfunction has occurred. The run will come
to a stop.

See Table 4-1 to determine the nature of the error or problem,
possible causes, and recommended corrective actions. If no user
action is indicated, or the error persists, call Beckman Coulter Field
Service for assistance.

4-6

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

SPEED
IMBAL

TEMP
DOOR

Diagnostic Messages

SPEED–RPM TIME–HR:MIN TEMP–˚C

DRIVE
PWR

VAC
CPU

SPEED

VACUUM–µ

2

tDECELACCEL

X 10,000

SAVEPROGHOLDw

TIME

TEMP

789

456

123

0

CE

ENTER/RECALL

POWER OFF

VACUUM

START

STOP

Figure 4-5. Location of Diagnostic Messages on the Control Panel

CLEANING

ROTOR CHAMBER

Keep instrument surfaces clean by wiping them with a cloth damp­ened with a mild detergent such as Beckman Solution 555™ (diluted
10 to 1 with water). If salts or other corrosive materials are used, or if
spillage occurs, wash all affected areas immediately. Do not allow
corrosive materials to dry on the instrument. (Be careful not to spill
liquid on the instrument where electrical or mechanical components
could get damaged.)

The rotor chamber is coated with epoxy resin paint, and the chamber
door O-ring is Buna N rubber. The chamber can be wiped clean with
a cloth dampened with a mild detergent such as Solution 555. The
O-ring should be cleaned with a tissue or soft cloth every 3 or 4
months. Replace the O-ring whenever it becomes worn or damaged.
Lightly coat the O-ring with silicone vacuum grease (335148) before
reinstalling it to ensure an optimum vacuum seal. (Instrument O-rings
have not been designed as bioseals for aerosol containment.)

4-7

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Diagnostic

Message

Table 4-1. Diagnostic Troubleshooting Chart

Possible Cause User Action

SPEED Speed has been set above the

maximum allowable for the rotor; or
wrong, damaged, or missing overspeed
disk on the installed rotor

TEMP Temperature control or vacuum system

malfunctioning

DRIVE Abnormal change in drive speed or

overheated drive

VAC Vacuum not being drawn properly • Check door O-ring for damage and dirt.

IMBAL Rotor imbalance (at low speeds) Check for proper rotor loading.
DOOR Door is open when the _78%68a key is

pressed

PWR Loss of power during run Check TIME display; the run may need to be

Check set speed; check the rotor for clean, undam­aged, and correct overspeed disk (see the Rotors
and Tubes manual [LR-IM] for replacement
instructions).

Check the air inlet (at bottom of the front panel) for
obstructions. Call Beckman Coulter Field Service if
problem persists.

Be sure a rotor is properly installed on the spindle; if
power has failed, wait for 5 minutes for drive to cool;
check for air inlet obstruction.

• Check rotor lid O-rings for possible leakage.

• Check the vacuum oil. If milky in color, run the

vacuum system for several hours or overnight until
the oil is clear.

Be sure door is closed.

restarted or aborted.

CPU Microprocessor malfunction or loss of

program memory

NOTE

➠

No user action. Call Beckman Coulter Field Service.

Keep the chamber door closed between runs to
keep the chamber clean and dry. If necessary,
wipe off the chamber walls with a dry cloth
before operation.

Do not place containers holding liquid near
the, chamber door. Spilled liquid can damage
electrical or mechanical components.

4-8

DECONTAMINATION

If the instrument and/or accessories are contaminated with radioactive
or pathogenic solutions, follow appropriate decontamination
procedures as determined by your laboratory safety officer. Refer
to Chemical Resistances (publication IN-175), or contact Beckman
Coulter Field Service to ensure that the decontamination method
does not damage any part of the instrument (or accessories).

STERILIZA TION AND DISINFECTION

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

The top working surface is finished with urethane paint; the sides are
finished with general purpose paint. Ethanol (70%)
both these surfaces. See Chemical Resistances for more information
regarding chemical resistance of instrument and accessory materials.

While Beckman Coulter has tested these methods and found that they
do not damage the instrument, no guarantee of sterility or disinfection
is expressed or implied. When sterilization or disinfection is a
concern, consult your laboratory safety officer regarding proper
methods to use.

STORA GE AND TRANSPORTATION

Contact Beckman Coulter Field Service for specific instructions and/
or assistance in preparing the instrument for transport or long-term
storage. Temperature and humidity requirements for storage should
meet the environmental requirements described under

TIONS at the front of this manual.

1

may be used on

SPECIFICA-

1

Flammability hazard. Do not use in or near operating ultracentrifuges.

4-9

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

SUPPLY LIST

NOTE

➠

To obtain copies of referenced publications,
contact Beckman Coulter, Inc., Technical Publi­cations Department, 1050 Page Mill Road, Palo
Alto, CA 94304, U.S.A. (Telephone 650-859­1753; Fax [phone]).

Call Beckman Coulter Sales (1-800-742-2345 in the United States;
worldwide offices are listed at the back of this manual) or see Ultra-
centrifuge Rotors, Tubes & Accessories (BR-8101, available at
www .beckmancoulter .com) for detailed information on ordering parts
and supplies. For your convenience, a partial list is given below.

Silicone vacuum grease (2 oz). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 335148

Spinkote lubricant (1 oz). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 306812

Beckman Solution 555 (1 qt) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 339555

Chamber O-ring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 801778

Logbook for Ultracentrifuges. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330049

Master Rotor Logbook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 339587

Direct-drive vacuum pump oil (1 L) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 341661

Diffusion pump oil (250 cc) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330246

4-10

™

OPTIMA

L, LE, XL, AND L-XP PREPARATIVE ULTRACENTRIFUGES

AND THE OPTIMA

SPECIAL WARRANTY FOR THE

™

XL-A AND XL-I ANALYTICAL ULTRACENTRIFUGES

Subject to the exceptions and upon the conditions specified
below, Beckman Coulter, Inc., agrees to correct, either by
repair, or, at its election, by replacement, any defects of
material or workmanship which develop within one (1) year
after delivery of the Optima Ultracentrifuge (the product), to
the original Buyer by Beckman Coulter, or by an authorized
representative, provided that investigation and factory inspec­tion by Beckman Coulter discloses that such defect developed
under normal and proper use.

Some components and accessories by their nature are not
intended to and will not function for as long as one (1) year. If
any such component or accessory fails to give reasonable
service for a reasonable period of time, Beckman Coulter will
repair or, at its election, replace such component or accessory.
What constitutes either reasonable service and a reasonable
period of time shall be determined solely by Beckman Coulter.

REPLACEMENT

Any product claimed to be defective must, if requested by
Beckman Coulter be returned to the factory, transportation
charges prepaid, and will be returned to Buyer with the trans­portation charges collect unless the product is found to be
defective, in which case Beckman Coulter will pay all trans­portation charges.

Beckman Coulter makes no warranty concerning products or
accessories not manufactured by it. In the event of failure of
any such product or accessory, Beckman Coulter will give
reasonable assistance to the Buyer in obtaining from the
respective manufacturer whatever adjustment is reasonable in
light of the manufacturer’s own warranty.

Damage to the instrument while operating a rotor not of
Beckman Coulter manufacture is not covered by warranty or
service contract terms. Further, Beckman Coulter shall be
released from all obligations under all warranties either
expressed or implied, if the product covered hereby is repaired
or modified by persons other than its own authorized service
personnel, unless such repair is made by others who meet
qualifications similar to those required of Beckman Coulter’s
service personnel, or unless such repair in the sole opinion of
Beckman Coulter is minor, or unless such modification is
merely the installation of a new Beckman Coulter plug-in
component for such product.

SPECIAL DRIVE WARRANTY

below. During the drive’s second through tenth year of use
there is a prorated drive replacement price based on years of
use if the drive unit is installed, serviced, and operated in
accordance with the conditions listed below.

Drive replacement price for units not under service contract*
= current drive exchange price

years of use



----------------------------

×



10

labor and travel.+

CONDITIONS

1. The drive has been operated only within its rated speed
and temperature ranges.

2. The drive unit has not been subjected to unequal loading,
improper rotor installation, corrosion from material
spilled onto the hub or accumulated in the chamber of the
instrument.

3. The drive unit has not been disassembled, modified, or
repaired, except by Beckman Coulter personnel.

4. The drive unit was installed by a Beckman Coulter Field
Service representative.

5. The instrument in which the drive unit has been used and
operated, and its associated rotors, were manufactured by
Beckman Coulter and serviced only by Beckman Coulter
Field Service representatives.

If the above conditions are not met, the full appropriate
exchange price for the drive will be charged.

DISCLAIMER

IT IS EXPRESSLY AGREED THAT THE ABOVE
WARRANTY SHALL BE IN LIEU OF ALL WARRAN­TIES OF FITNESS AND OF THE WARRANTY OF MER­CHANTABILITY AND THAT BECKMAN COULTER,
INC. SHALL HAVE NO LIABILITY FOR SPECIAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND WHAT­SOEVER ARISING OUT OF THE MANUFACTURE,
USE, SALE, HANDLING, REPAIR, MAINTENANCE, OR
REPLACEMENT OF THE PRODUCT.

During the instrument warranty period (one year), there will
be no charge for drive replacement if the drive unit is installed,
serviced, and operated in accordance with the conditions listed

*For details of drive coverage with a service contract, contact your

local Beckman Coulter service representative.

Beckman Coulter Worldwide Life Science Research Division Offices

AUSTRALIA

Beckman Coulter Australia Pty Ltd
Unit D, 24 College St.
Gladesville, NSW 2111
Australia

Telephone: [phone]
or toll free: 1 800 060 880
Fax: [phone]
email: [e-mail]

CANADA

Beckman Coulter (Canada) Inc.
6755 Mississauga Road, Suite 600
Mississauga, Ontario
Canada L5N 7Y2

Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

CHINA

Beckman Coulter Inc.
Beijing Representative Office
Unit 2005A, 2006-2009, East Ocean Center
Jian Guomenwai Avenue
Beijing 100004
China

Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

EASTERN EUROPE/
MIDDLE EAST/NORTH AFRICA

Beckman Coulter International S.A.
22, Rue Juste-Olivier
Case Postale 301-303
CH-1260 Nyon, Switzerland

Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

FRANCE

Beckman Coulter France S.A.
Paris Nord II, 33/66 rue des Vanesses
B.P. 50359
Villepinte, France
95942 ROISSY CDG Cedex

Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
e-mail: [e-mail]

GERMANY

Beckman Coulter GmbH
Siemensstrasse 1
D-85716 Unterschleissheim-Lohhof
Germany

Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
e-mail: [e-mail]

TM

HONG KONG

Beckman Coulter Hong Kong Ltd.
12th Floor, Oxford House
979 King’s Road
Taikoo Place, Hong Kong

Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

ITALY

Beckman Coulter S.p.a.
Centro Direzionale Lombardo
Palazzo F/1, Via Roma 108
20060 Cassina de’ Pecchi
Milano, Italy

Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

JAPAN

Beckman Coulter K.K.
Toranomon 37 Mori Bldg.
3-5-1, Toranomon
Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0001
Japan

Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

MEXICO

Beckman Coulter de Mexico S.A. DE C.V.
Avenida Popocatépetl #396
Colonia Gral. Pedro Maria Anaya
Codigo Postal 03340
Maxico, D.F. / Mexico City

Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

NETHERLANDS

Beckman Coulter Nederland B.V.
Nijverheidsweg 21
3641 RP-Mijdrecht
Postbus 47
3640 AA Mijdrecht
The Netherlands

Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

SINGAPORE

Beckman Coulter Singapore Pte. Ltd.
116 Changi Road
Unit #03-01/02
Singapore 419718

Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

SOUTH AFRICA/SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

Beckman Coulter
Stand 1A Primegro Park
Tonetti Street
1685 Halfway House
Johannesburg
Republic of South Africa

Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
e-mail: [e-mail]

SPAIN

Beckman Coulter España S.A.
C/ Caleruega, 81
28033 Madrid, Spain

Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
email: [e-mail]

SWEDEN

Beckman Coulter AB
Archimedesvaegen 7
Box 111 56
SE-168 11 Bromma
Sweden

Telephone: [phone]
Telefax: (0)8 564 85 901

SWITZERLAND

Beckman Coulter International S.A.
22, Rue Juste-Olivier
Case Postale 301-303
CH-1260 Nyon
Switzerland

Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

TAIWAN

Beckman Coulter Taiwan Inc.
Taiwan Branch
8th Floor
216 Tun Hwa South Road, Section 2
Taipei 106, Taiwan
Republic of China

Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

TURKEY

Beckman Coulter Ltd.
E-5 Yanyol Faith Cad.
81410 Soganlik Kartal
Istanbul
Turkey

Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

UNITED KINGDOM

Beckman Coulter United Kingdom Ltd
Oakley Court
Kingsmead Business Park
London Road
High Wycombe
Buckinghamshire HP11 1JU
England, U.K.

Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
e-mail: [e-mail]

Authorized dealers in other countries.

Beckman Coulter, Inc. • 4300 N. Harbor Boulevard, Box 3100 • Fullerton, California 92834-3100

Sales: 1-800-742-2345 • Service: 1-800-551-1150 • Internet: www.beckmancoulter.com • Telex: 678413 • Fax: [phone]

Printed on recycled paper

©2003 Beckman Coulter, Inc.

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