Except as provided in writing signed by an officer to Beckman Coulter, Inc., this system and any related
documentation are provided “as is” without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied, including that the system is
“error free.” This information is presented in good faith, but Beckman Coulter, Inc. does not warrant, guarantee, or
make any representations regarding the use or the results of the use of this system and related documentation in terms
of correctness, accuracy, reliability, currentness, omissions, or otherwise. The entire risk as to the use, results, and
performance of this system and related documentation is assumed by the user.
Except as expressly provided herein, Beckman Coulter, Inc. makes no other warranty, whether oral or written,
expressed or implied, as to any matter whatsoever, including but not limited to those concerning merchantability and
fitness for a particular purpose, nor is freedom from any patent owned by Beckman Coulter, Inc. or by others to be
inferred.
LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY
Beckman Coulter, Inc. shall not be liable, to any extent whatsoever, for any damages resulting from or arising out of
the use or performance of this system and related documentation or the procedures specified in this manual,
regardless of foreseeability or the form of action, whether in contract, tort (including negligence), breach of warranty,
strict liability or otherwise, and including but not limited to damages resulting from loss of data, loss of anticipated
profits, or any special, indirect, incidental or consequential damages. In no event shall Beckman Coulter, Inc.’s
liability to the user exceed the amount paid by the user to Beckman Coulter, Inc. hereunder. The user assumes full
responsibility for the results obtained from the use of this system and related documentation and for application of
such results.
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Indianapolis, Indiana
www.beckmancoulter.com
Biomek, SAMIOrca, and the Beckman Coulter logo are registered trademarks and Beckman Coulter and SAGIAN
are trademarks of Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Microsoft and MS-DOS are registered trademarks and Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation. All other
trademarks appearing in this manual are owned by their respective companies.
Copyright 2010 by Beckman Coulter, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced,
distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or
otherwise, or stored in a database or retrieval system, without the prior written permission of Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Warranty and Returned Goods Requirements
All standard Beckman Coulter, Inc. policies governing returned goods apply to this
product. Subject to the exceptions and upon the conditions stated below, the Company
warrants that the products sold under this sales agreement shall be free from defects in
workmanship and materials for one year after delivery of the products to the original
Purchaser by the Company, and if any such product should prove to be defective
within such one year period, the Company agrees, at its option, either (1) to correct by
repair or at the Company’s election by replacement, any such defective product
provided that investigation and factory inspection discloses that such defect
developed under normal and proper use, or (2) to refund the purchase price. The
exceptions and conditions mentioned above are as follows:
a.Components or accessories manufactured by the Company which by their
nature are not intended to and will not function for one year are warranted
only to reasonable service for a reasonable time. What constitutes a
reasonable time and a reasonable service shall be determined solely by the
Company. A complete list of such components and accessories is maintained
at the factory.
b.The Company makes no warranty with respect to components or accessories
not manufactured by it. In the event of defect in any such component or
accessory, the Company will give reasonable assistance to Purchaser in
obtaining from the manufacturer’s own warranty.
c.Any product claimed to be defective must, if required by the Company, be
returned to the factory, transportation charges prepaid, and will be returned
to Purchaser with transportation charges collect unless the product is found
to be defective, in which case the product must be properly decontaminated
of any chemical, biological, or radioactive hazardous material.
d.The Company shall be released from all obligations under all warranties,
either expressed or implied, if any product covered hereby is repaired or
modified by persons other than its own authorized service personnel, unless
such repair by others is made with the written consent of the Company.
e.If the product is a reagent or the like, it is warranted only to conform to the
quantity and content and for the period (but not in excess of one year) stated
on the label at the time of delivery.
iii
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 the company shall have no
liability for special or consequential damages of any kind or from any cause
whatsoever arising out of the manufacture, use, sale, handling, repair, maintenance, or
replacement of any of the products sold under the sales agreement.
Representatives and warranties made by any person, including dealers and
representatives of the Company, which are consistent or in conflict with the terms of
this warranty, shall not be binding upon the Company unless reduced in writing and
approved by an expressly authorized officer of the Company.
Parts replaced during the warranty period are warranted to the end of the instrument
warranty.
Note: Performance characteristics and specifications are only warranted when
Beckman Coulter replacement parts are used.
Shaking Peltier Device Integration Manual
Safety Information
All Warnings and Cautions in this document include an exclamation point, a lightning
bolt, or a light burst symbol framed within a triangle. Please pay special attention to
the specific safety information associated with these symbols.
v
WARNING: If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by
Beckman Coulter, Inc., the protection provided by the equipment may be
impaired.
Warning and Caution Definitions
All Warnings and Cautions in this document include an exclamation point, a lightning
bolt, or a light burst symbol framed within a triangle.
The exclamation point symbol is an international symbol which serves as a reminder
that all safety instructions should be read and understood before installation, use,
maintenance, and servicing is attempted.
WARNING: A WARNING calls attention to a condition or possible
situation that could cause injury to the operator.
CAUTION: A CAUTION calls attention to a condition or possible
situation that could damage or destroy the product or the operator’s
work.
When this symbol is displayed in this manual, pay special attention to the specific
safety information associated with the symbol.
Shaking Peltier Device Integration Manual
viSafety Information
Electrical Safety
To prevent electrically related injuries and property damage, properly inspect all
electrical equipment prior to use and immediately report any electrical deficiencies.
Contact a Beckman Coulter Service Engineer for any servicing of equipment
requiring the removal of covers or panels unless specifically stated otherwise.
High Voltage
This symbol indicates the potential of an electrical shock hazard existing from a high
voltage source and that all safety instructions should be read and understood before
proceeding with the installation, maintenance, and servicing of all modules.
Do not remove system covers unless the instructions state explicitly to do so. To avoid
electrical shock, use supplied power cords only and connect to properly grounded
(three-holed) wall outlets. Use only multiplug power strips provided by the
manufacturer.
Disposal of Electronic Equipment
It is important to understand and follow all laws regarding the safe and proper
disposal of electrical instrumentation.
The symbol of a crossed-out wheeled bin on the product is required in accordance
with the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive of the
European Union. The presence of this marking on the product indicates that:
•the device was put on the European Market after August 13, 2005.
•the device is not to be disposed via the municipal waste collection system of
any member state of the European Union.
For products under the requirement of WEEE directive, please contact your dealer or
local Beckman Coulter office for the proper decontamination information and take
back program, which will facilitate the proper collection, treatment, recovery,
recycling, and safe disposal of the device.
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Chemical and Biological Safety
Normal operation of the Shaking Peltier Device may involve the use of materials that
are toxic, flammable, or otherwise biologically harmful. When using such materials,
observe the following precautions:
•Handle infectious samples according to good laboratory procedures and
methods to prevent the spread of disease.
•Observe all cautionary information printed on the original solutions
containers prior to their use.
•Dispose of all waste solutions according to your facility’s waste disposal
procedures.
•Operate the Shaking Peltier Device in accordance with the instructions
outlined in this manual, and take all the necessary precautions when using
pathological, toxic, or radioactive materials.
•Splashing of liquids may occur; therefore, take appropriate safety
precautions, such as using safety glasses and wearing protective clothing,
when working with potentially hazardous liquids.
•Use an appropriately contained environment when using hazardous
materials.
Safety Informationvii
Moving Parts
•Observe the appropriate cautionary procedures as defined by your safety
officer when using flammable solvents in or near a powered-up instrument.
•Observe the appropriate cautionary procedures as defined by your safety
officer when using toxic, pathological, or radioactive materials.
Note: Observe all warnings and cautions listed for any external devices attached or
used during operation of the Shaking Peltier Device. Refer to applicable external
device user’s manuals for operating procedures of that device.
To avoid injury due to moving parts, observe the following:
•Never attempt to exchange labware, reagents, or tools while the instrument
is operating.
•Never attempt to physically restrict any of the moving components of the
Shaking Peltier Device.
•Keep the Shaking Peltier Device work area clear to prevent obstruction of
the movement.
Shaking Peltier Device Integration Manual
viiiSafety Information
Cleaning
Maintenance
Important
Observe the cleaning procedures outlined in this user’s manual for the Shaking Peltier
Device. Prior to cleaning equipment that has been exposed to hazardous material:
•Appropriate Chemical and Biological Safety personnel should be contacted.
•The Chemical and Biological Safety information contained in this user’s
manual should be reviewed.
Perform only the maintenance described in this manual. Maintenance other than that
specified in this manual should be performed only by service engineers.
It is your responsibility to decontaminate components of the Shaking Peltier Device
before requesting service by a Beckman Coulter Service Engineer or returning parts
to Beckman Coulter for repair. Beckman Coulter will NOT accept any items which
have not been decontaminated where it is appropriate to do so. If any parts are
returned, they must be enclosed in a sealed plastic bag stating that the contents are
safe to handle and are not contaminated.
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Warnings and Cautions Found in this Manual
Please read and observe all cautions and instructions. Remember, the most important
key to safety is to operate this software and its supporting equipment with care.
The WARNINGs and CAUTIONs found within this document are listed below.
WARNING: If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by Beckman Coulter, Inc., the protection provided by the
equipment may be impaired.
CAUTION: Use only the cables that were included with the
Shaking Peltier Device. Other cables may result in power or
communication problems.
CAUTION: Do not overtighten the screws. There is a gap between the tabs on the adapter plate and the Shaking Peltier
Device. Overtightening may result in the adapter plate being
uneven and affect heating and cooling performance of the
Shaking Peltier Device.
WARNING: ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD! Checking and
changing the coolant requires removing the covers from the
Shaking Peltier Device, exposing internal electrical components. Remove covers with care and use caution when servicing the device.
The Shaking Peltier Device (Figure 1-1) is a labware positioner with microplate
shaking and heating and cooling capabilities from a connected controller. Each Peltier
may be equipped with an adapter plate which allows for different labware types to be
used with the Peltier device. Adapter plates are available for:
1
•flat-bottomed microplates
•96-well thermocycler plates
•384-well thermocycler plates
Figure 1-1. Shaking Peltier Device
Shaking Peltier Device Integration Manual
2Shaking Peltier Device
1.1.1Control Modes
There are two control modes for the Shaking Peltier Device:
1.1.2Reference Documents
This manual covers integrating and using the Shaking Peltier Device with the Biomek
3000 in Biomek Software. Refer to the original manuals from the device
manufacturer, Inheco, for more information not included in this manual:
•Biomek® Software — the Peltier step controls operations on the Shaking
Peltier Device during a method.
•Supplied Watlow Controller — manually control without software. Refer to
the TEC Control 96 User’s Manual for more information.
•Thermoshake Heating and Cooling Unit Manual
•TEC Control 96 User’s Manual
•Biomek 3000 User’s Manua
•Biomek Software User’s Manual
l
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Shaking Peltier Device3
1.2Installing the Shaking Peltier Device
The Shaking Peltier Device is installed on a special mounting bracket that is installed
on the left side of the Biomek 3000 deck in place of the side module. The Shaking
Peltier Device may be installed on either of two positions on the mounting bracket.
Installing the Shaking Peltier Device on the Biomek 3000 includes:
•Raising the Biomek 3000 Deck
•Installing the Mounting Bracket
•Leveling the Biomek 3000 and Mounting Bracket
•Installing the Shaking Peltier Device
•Installing Adapter Plates
•Adjusting the Plate Holder
(Section 1.2.1).
(Section 1.2.2).
(Section 1.2.4).
(Section 1.2.5).
(Section 1.2.6)
(Section 1.2.3).
Shaking Peltier Device Integration Manual
4Shaking Peltier Device
1.2.1Raising the Biomek 3000 Deck
To install the mounting bracket that holds the Shaking Peltier Device, the Biomek
3000 instrument must be raised by placing new standoffs and feet on the bottom of
the Biomek 3000.
To raise the Biomek 3000:
Note: Placing the new standoffs and feet on the bottom of the Biomek 3000
instrument requires two people.
1. Tilt the Biomek 3000 instrument on its back feet.
2. While one person holds the Biomek 3000, a second person screws a new foot into
each of the threaded holes adjacent to the two front feet (Figure 1-2).
Threaded hole
for new foot
Front feet
New feet installed
Figure 1-2. Installing new feet on Biomek 3000 instrument
3. After the two front feet are inserted, tilt the Biomek 3000 instrument on the front
feet and screw a new foot into each of the threaded holes adjacent to the two back
feet.
4. Set the Biomek 3000 down and fasten each of the feet using an adjustable
wrench.
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Shaking Peltier Device5
1.2.2Installing the Mounting Bracket
A mounting bracket is installed on the left side of the Biomek 3000 instrument. The
mounting bracket contains two positions in which Peltier devices or a Biomek 3000
Labware Positioner may be placed. An optional Disposal Unit may be attached to the
left side of the mounting bracket.
To mount the mounting bracket on the left side of the instrument:
1. If the Biomek 3000 Side Module is installed on the left side of the Biomek 3000
instrument, remove it (refer to the Biomek® 3000 Laboratory Automation Workstation User’s Manual, Section 1.3.4.1, Removing Installed Side Modules).
2. Position the upper locating holes marked L on the side of the mounting bracket
with the locating pins on the left side of the Biomek 3000 deck (Figure 1-3).
Locating pins
Locating holes
Mounting holes
Figure 1-3. Attaching the mounting bracket to the Biomek 3000
3. Using a 3/16” Allen wrench, fasten the two large socket-head cap screws in the
two lower mounting holes marked L on the mounting bracket to attach it to the
side of the deck (Figure 1-3).
Shaking Peltier Device Integration Manual
6Shaking Peltier Device
1.2.3Leveling the Biomek 3000 and Mounting
After installing the mounitng bracket to the left side of the Biomek 3000 instrument,
the instrument and bracket must be leveled.
To level the Biomek 3000 instrument:
1. Adjust the feet on the bottom of the mounting bracket such that the bottom of the
Bracket
mounting bracket clears the top of the feet on the Biomek 3000 (Figure 1-4).
Note: If also installing a mounting bracket on the right side of the Biomek 3000
instrument, install both brackets and adjust the feet to clear the Biomek 3000 feet
before leveling the instrument.
Mounting bracket
2. Using a bubble level, adjust the feet on the Biomek 3000 instrument to make sure
the deck is level. Turn the feet to the left to raise the feet or to the right to lower
them.
Note: Make sure the deck is level in both the X- and Y-axes.
3. Place the bubble level on the mounting bracket surface and adjust the mounting
bracket feet, if needed, until the bracket is level.
Biomek 3000 feet
Mounting bracket feet
Figure 1-4. Adjusting the feet on the mounting bracket
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Shaking Peltier Device7
1.2.4Installing the Shaking Peltier Device
The mounting bracket has two positions in which devices or positioners may be
placed. Either a Static Peltier Device, Shaking Peltier Device, or Biomek 3000
Position Holder, in any combination, may be installed in these two positions.
To install the Shaking Peltier Device on the mounting bracket:
1. Position the Shaking Peltier Device on the desired bracket location so the
locating pins on the bottom of the Shaking Peltier Device slip into the locating
holes on the bracket (Figure 1-5).
Shaking Peltier Device
Thumbscrews
Mounting bracket
Figure 1-5. Mounting the Shaking Peltier Device to the bracket
2. Fasten the Shaking Peltier Device to the bracket using the thumbscrews on the
base of the Shaking Peltier Device.
Note: After physically installing the Shaking Peltier Device, add it to the deck
in the Deck Editor of Biomek Software.
Shaking Peltier Device Integration Manual
8Shaking Peltier Device
CAUTION: Use only the cables that were included with the Shaking
Peltier Device. Other cables may result in power or communication
problems.
3. Connect the Shaking Peltier Device bundle cord from the Peltier device to the
Watlow controller (Figure 1-6).
Power switch
Main power port
Figure 1-6. Connections on Watlow controller for Shaking Peltier Device
Serial port
Bundle cord
connector
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
4. Connect one end of the RS-485 serial cable to the serial connector on the back of
the Watlow controller. (Figure 1-6).
5. Connect the other end of the RS-485 serial cable to the RS-485 end of the 485/
232 Adapter.
6. Connect the RS-232 end of the 485/232 converter to one of the serial ports on the
automation controller PC or the Digi cable.
7. Connect the power cable from the main power port on the back of the Watlow
controller to a power supply (Figure 1-6).
8. Power on the Watlow controller using the power switch on the back of the
Watlow controller just above the power cable (Figure 1-6).
Shaking Peltier Device9
1.2.5Installing Adapter Plates
Before using the Shaking Peltier Device, one of three available adapter plates must be
installed. Adapter plates should be chosen based on what type of microplates are used
on the Shaking Peltier Device. Each adapter plate provides a different heating and
cooling profile that is optimized for specific types of plates or applications.
The available adapter plates are:
•96-well adapter — for use with 96-well thermocycler plates.
•384-well adapter — for use with 384-well thermocycler plates.
•no adapter plate — the device may be used without an adapter plate for flat-
bottomed labware.
Note: The Shaking Peltier Device must be replaced in the Deck Editor (refer to
Section 1.3.2, Adding the Shaking Peltier Device to the Deck in the Deck Editor
reframed each time the adapter plate is changed (refer to Section 1.4, Framing
Instructions).
Each adapter plate has three tabs with screw holes
To install an adapter plate on the Shaking Peltier Device:
1. Place the adapter plate on the Shaking Peltier Device such that the three tabs
align with three of the screw holes on the device (Figure 1-7).
) and
Adapter plate tabs
Align the tabs over the screw holes
on the Shaking Peltier Device.
Make sure all four edges of adapter
plate are flush with the Shaking
Peltier Device.
Figure 1-7. Shaking Peltier Device with 96-well adapter plate
2. Make sure the adapter plate is flush with all edges of the interior area of the
device.
Shaking Peltier Device Integration Manual
10Shaking Peltier Device
CAUTION: Do not overtighten the screws. There is a gap between the
tabs on the adapter plate and the Shaking Peltier Device. Overtightening
may result in the adapter plate being uneven and affect heating and
cooling performance of the Shaking Peltier Device.
3. Fasten the adapter plate to the Shaking Peltier Device using the 1.5 mm screws
1.2.6Adjusting the Plate Holder
The Shaking Peltier Device has four adjustable corner guides for holding labware
snugly in the device (Figure 1-8). The four corner guides need to be adjusted for the
specific labware type used on the Shaking Peltier Device to ensure that labware is
firmly held in place while shaking.
and Allen wrench.
Adjustable labware guides
Figure 1-8. Adjusting the corner guides of the Shaking Peltier Device plate holder
To adjust the corner guides for labware:
1. Place a piece of labware of the desired type on the Shaking Peltier Device.
Note: Make sure the appropriate adapter plate is installed before placing
labware on the Shaking Peltier Device.
2. Using a 1.5 mm Allen wrench, adjust the corner guide screws to control how
tightly labware is held in place. The microplate should fit snugly in the position
but still move freely in and out of the plate holder.
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Shaking Peltier Device11
1.3Setting Up the Shaking Peltier Device in Biomek
Software
After physically installing the Shaking Peltier Device on the Biomek 3000 Laboratory
Automation Workstation, it is must be set up to use in Biomek Software.
Setting up the Shaking Peltier Device in Biomek Software includes:
•Installing Software for the Shaking Peltier Device
•Adding the Shaking Peltier Device to the Deck in the Deck Editor
1.3.2)
(Section 1.3.1)
(Section
1.3.1Installing Software for the Shaking Peltier
Device
A software module needs to be installed to enable use of the Shaking Peltier Device in
Biomek Software.
The software module install includes:
•ALP definitions to add the Shaking Peltier Device to the deck (refer to
Section 1.3.2, Adding the Shaking Peltier Device to the Deck in the Deck
Editor).
•steps to control the Shaking Peltier ALP in a Biomek method (refer to
Section 1.6, Using the Shaking Peltier Device in a Method
•device controls to control the Shaking Peltier Device outside a method using
the Device Editor (refer to Section 1.7, Manually Controlling the Shaking
Peltier Device).
To install the Shaking Peltier Device software:
1. Close Biomek Software if it is open.
Note: The installation only installs the Shaking Peltier Device to the active
instrument file. Make sure the desired instrument is active before closing Biomek
Software.
).
To install the Shaking Peltier Device for multiple instrument files, run the install
once for each instrument, changing the active instrument file in Biomek Software
between each run.
2. Insert the Shaking Peltier Device CD in the CD-ROM drive of the Biomek
Controller PC.
3. In Windows Explorer, browse to and select Shaking Peltier Module
Install.exe.
Shaking Peltier Device Integration Manual
12Shaking Peltier Device
4. Double-click Shaking Peltier Module Install.exe to launch the install
program. Shaking Peltier SILAS Module appears (Figure 1-9).
Figure 1-9. Shaking Peltier SILAS Module install
5. In Module Name, enter a name for the device. This name is used when
associating the device with a position in the Deck Editor (refer to Section 1.3.2,
Adding the Shaking Peltier Device to the Deck in the Deck Editor
6. In Adapter Plate Type, select the type of adapter plate that is installed on the
Shaking Peltier Device.
•Flat
•96-well Thermocycler
•384-well Thermocycler
Note: The install only installs the necessary information for the selected adapter
plate type. The first time a new adapter plate type is used, the install needs to be
run again and the new Adapter Plate Type selected.
7. Select Simulation only if using the software on a computer that is not attached
to an instrument. This allows methods to be created without the controller
attempting to communicate with the device.
8. Choose Next to install the Shaking Peltier SILAS Module. The installation
begins.
).
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Shaking Peltier Device13
9. When the installation completes, Figure 1-10 appears.
Figure 1-10. Installation of Shaking Peltier SILAS Module complete
10. Choose Finish to close the installation program. The Shaking Peltier SILAS
Module has been installed successfully.
Shaking Peltier Device Integration Manual
14Shaking Peltier Device
1.3.2Adding the Shaking Peltier Device to the
After physically installing the Shaking Peltier Device on the deck of the Biomek 3000
instrument, it must be added to the deck in the Deck Editor.
To add the Shaking Peltier Device to the Deck Editor:
1. Launch Biomek Software, if necessary.
2. From the Instrument menu, choose Deck Editor. Deck Editor appears showing
3. From the ALPs List on the left, select the appropriate Shaking Peltier Device for
4. Click and drag the selected ALP to the desired location. The positions that
Deck in the Deck Editor
the representation of the current deck.
the adapter plate installed:
•ShakingPeltier_Flat — select this device for the Shaking Peltier
Device without an adapter plate.
•ShakingPeltier_96 — select this device for the Shaking Peltier
Device with a 96-well adapter plate.
•ShakingPeltier_384 — select this device for the Shaking Peltier
Device with a 384-well adapter plate.
support the Shaking Peltier Device are indicated by a blue outline. There are two
deck positions on the left side of the deck that support that Shaking Peltier
Device.
5. Double-click the Shaking Peltier position. The position name varies depending
on the adapter plate and will be either SPelt_1, SPelt96_1, or SPelt384_1. Position Properties appears (Figure 1-11).
Figure 1-11. Position Properties for Shaking Peltier Device
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Shaking Peltier Device15
6. Choose More to expand Position Properties (Figure 1-12).
Figure 1-12. Position Properties for Shaking Peltier Device — expanded
7. In Device, select the ShakingPeltier device.
8. Choose Manual Teach to frame the position (refer to Section 1.4, Framing
Instructions).
9. Choose OK to close Position Properties.
10. Choose Save to save the deck and close the Deck Editor.
Note: Choosing Cancel loses all changes, including framing information, since
the Deck Editor was opened.
Shaking Peltier Device Integration Manual
16Shaking Peltier Device
1.4Framing Instructions
The Shaking Peltier Device must be framed before using it in a method. Framing
allows the Biomek 3000 to accurately move labware to and from the Shaking Peltier
Device and pipette to and from microplates positioned on the Shaking Peltier Device.
Framing the Shaking Peltier Device is performed using the Biomek 3000 framing
adapter to visually align the head assembly to the wells of a microplate. Frame the
Shaking Peltier Device to the center of well A1 using manual framing with tips. The
tip type and labware type that will most commonly be used on the Shaking Peltier
Device should be used while framing for best performance.
Note: Pipetting on the Shaking Peltier Device is only supported in 96-well and less
dense labware. If using the 384-well plate adapter, use a P20 tip for framing.
Note: The Shaking Peltier Device must be reframed each time the adapter plate is
changed.
Framing the Shaking Peltier Device includes:
•Attaching the Manual Framing Tool
•Manually Framing the Shaking Peltier Position
(Section 1.4.1).
(Section 1.4.2).
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Shaking Peltier Device17
1.4.1Attaching the Manual Framing Tool
Manually framing the Shaking Peltier Device requires the framing tool to be installed
on the head assembly. The framing tool is a tool with a single probe used to precisely
teach the Biomek Software the locations of all labware positioners on the deck.
To attach the manual framing tool to the head assembly:
1. Push a tip onto the probe on the framing tool (Figure 1-13).
Note: Make sure the tip is fully loaded onto the framing tool and is not bent or
damaged even slightly.
Tool release
button
Plunger
Framing tool
Tip
Figure 1-13. Installing the framing tool on the head assembly
2. Press the tool release button on the head assembly and push the framing tool onto
the plunger (Figure 1-13).
Note: Make sure that the arrow marked FRONT on the framing tool is pointing
towards the front of the Biomek 3000 deck.
3. Release the button when the framing tool is properly seated.
Shaking Peltier Device Integration Manual
18Shaking Peltier Device
1.4.2Manually Framing the Shaking Peltier
Manual Teach is a wizard-type interface that is used to manually frame deck
positions on the Biomek 3000 workstation. Using Manual Teach helps to ensure that
the tips can access the wells without causing any damage to the tips, tools, or labware
positioners.
The Shaking Peltier Device is framed to a microplate positioned on the device. The
framing tool tip must be aligned to the center of well A1.
To frame using Manual Teach:
1. Choose Start>Programs>Beckman Coulter>Biomek to open the Biomek
2. From the Instrument menu, choose Deck Editor. Deck Editor appears (Figure
Position
Software.
1-14).
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Figure 1-14. Deck Editor for Biomek 3000 workstation
Shaking Peltier Device19
3. Open Position Properties for the desired Shaking Peltier Device by doubleclicking on the deck position. Position Properties appears (Figure 1-15).
Figure 1-15. Position Properties for a Shaking Peltier Device
4. In Name, verify that the position is assigned a unique name.
5. Choose Manual Teach. Biomek 3000 Manual Teaching opens with a Warning (Figure 1-16).
Note: On the left side of Manual Teaching, a list of steps required to complete
the teaching process is displayed. As the steps of Manual Teaching are
accessed, the steps are highlighted on the left.
6. Address the Warning appropriately and choose Next to continue. Biomek 3000
Manual Teaching displays Adapter. No framing adapter is required to frame
the Shaking Peltier Device.
Figure 1-17. Manual Teaching if framing adapter is not required.
7. Choose Next to continue to the next screen. Biomek 3000 Manual Teaching
displays Load Tool.
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Figure 1-18. Loading tool during manual teach
8. If not already installed, install the framing tool on the Biomek 3000 head
assembly (refer to Section 1.4.1, Attaching the Manual Framing Tool
).
Shaking Peltier Device21
9. Manually load a tip onto the framing tool, if a tip is not already loaded. Any tip
type defined in the Tip Type Editor may be used; it is recommended that the type
of tip that will be used most frequently for liquid handling operations at the
Shaking Peltier Device is used for framing.
Note: If an alignment tip is bent or damaged even slightly, replace the tip before
framing.
10. In Please manually load a tip of type, select the type of tip that is currently
loaded on the framing tool (from step 9). This selection must match the tip type
physically loaded on the framing tool.
11. Choose Next to continue to the next screen. Biomek 3000 Manual Teaching
displays Select Target (Figure 1-19).
Figure 1-19. Selecting target to manual teach position
12. Select Line tip up against a ... plate and select a plate type to use a piece of
labware to frame. The plate type selected should be the plate type that will be
used most frequently on the Shaking Peltier Device.
13. Place a microplate of the selected type on the Shaking Peltier Device. Push it so
that the microplate is flush with the back left corner of the Shaking Peltier
Device.
Shaking Peltier Device Integration Manual
22Shaking Peltier Device
14. Choose Next to continue to the next screen. Biomek 3000 Manual Teaching
15. Select Well Center to align the tips to the center of the wells.
displays Teach X,Y (Figure 1-20).
Figure 1-20. Framing to the center of a well
16. To align the tips in the X- and Y-axes with the microplate placed on the labware
positioner, lower the framing tool tip in the Z-axis until it is approximately 1 mm
above the top of the microplate.
Note: Since tip height is set in the next step in the Biomek 3000 Manual
Teaching process, it is safe to move the head assembly to any height to make
aligning the tips with the target position easier.
17. Visually verify the physical position of the tips in relation to the microplate well.
18. Adjust the position of the tip to align it with the microplate well by either:
•Using the Graphic Alignment Tool
•Using the Delta Value and Directional Buttons
19. Frame the Z-axis height to complete the framing process (refer to Section 1.4.2.3,
Framing the Z-Axis
).
(Section 1.4.2.1).
(Section 1.4.2.2).
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Shaking Peltier Device23
1.4.2.1Using the Graphic Alignment Tool
The graphic alignment tool (Figure 1-21) is used to instruct the Biomek Software of
the current position of the framing tool tip to the center of well A1 on the microplate.
The Biomek Software uses the information it is given to move the head assembly so
the framing tool tip is directly above the center of the well.
Graphic alignment tool
The graphic alignment tool is a visual representation of
the tip (small circle) and the target well. The small
circle is moved until it represents the tip’s current
physical location in relation to the center of the well.
Figure 1-21. Manually teaching the X- and Y-axes using the graphic alignment tool
To use the graphic alignment tool:
1. Drag the center (small) circle until it represents the tip’s physical position in
relation to the center of well A1 on the microplate.
Note: The small circle represents the tip on the framing tool. The objective is to
provide the software with a representation of the tip’s position in relation to the
center of well A1 on the microplate. The software uses this graphical
representation to know approximately how far in any direction the tips must
move.
2. Select Go. The pod moves in accordance with the position of the small circle in
relation to the large circle.
Note: When the move is completed, the small circle resets itself to the center of
the large circle. The values displayed in Total Moved from Start (cm) changes
each time steps 1 and 2 are completed. If desired, the values in Tota l M ov e d
from Start (cm) can be reset to zero by selecting Reset.
Shaking Peltier Device Integration Manual
24Shaking Peltier Device
3. Visually verify the position of the tip on the framing tool in relation to the center
4. Once the tip is aligned with the center of well A1 on the microplate, choose Next
1.4.2.2Using the Delta Value and Directional Buttons
The tip can be positioned manually using the delta values and directional buttons to
align it with the target position on the labware positioner or microplate. Pressing one
of the directional buttons moves the head assembly that direction by the distance
specified in Delta. Position the tip above the target position on the microplate.
of well A1 on the microplate. If the tips are still not accurately positioned above
the center of well A1 on the microplate, repeat steps 1 and 2 until they are
accurately positioned above the center of well A1 on the microplate.
Note: The tip may also be aligned with the position using the delta value and
directional buttons (refer to Section 1.4.2.2, Using the Delta Value and
Directional Buttons).
to continue. Biomek 3000 Manual Teaching displays Teach Z (refer to
Section 1.4.2.3, Framing the Z-Axis
).
Delta value
The magnitude of change applied to the tips
each time a directional button is selected.
Figure 1-22. Manually teaching the X- and Y-axes using delta values and directional buttons
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Directional buttons
The directional buttons move the
head assembly by the amount
shown in Delta with each press of
a button.
Shaking Peltier Device25
To use the delta value and directional buttons to position the tip:
1. In Delta, select the magnitude of change applied to the tips each time a
directional button is selected (Figure 1-22).
Note: The default Delta value is 0.05 cm. This is the smallest movement that
can be made in the X and Y axes. If the tips are a considerable distance from the
desired location, increase the distance traveled by increasing the Delta value
(maximum setting is 1.0 cm).
2. Select the directional button representing the motion required to physically
move the tip into position over the target position on the microplate (Figure 1-
22).
Note: Each time a directional button is selected, the pod and tips move the
distance specified in Delta in the indicated direction.
Note: The tips can be physically positioned over the wells of a microplate
using:
•the directional buttons in Manual Teach.
•the directional keys on the keyboard.
•the directional keys on the numeric keypad.
The directional buttons displayed in Manual Teach parallel the keys on the
numeric keypad. More specifically, Fwd. correlates to the ‘1’ on the numeric
keypad, while Down is found on the ‘2’, Left is found on the ‘4’, Right on ‘6’,
Up on ‘8’, and Back on ‘9’.
3. Visually verify the position of the tip on the framing tool in relation to the target
position on the microplate. If the tip is still not accurately positioned above the
target position on the microplate, repeat steps 1 and 2 until they are accurately
positioned above the target position on the microplate.
Note: The tip may also be aligned with the position using the graphic alignment
tool (refer to Section 1.4.2.1, Using the Graphic Alignment Tool).
4. Once the tip is aligned with the target position on the microplate, choose Next to
continue. Biomek 3000 Manual Teaching displays Teach Z (refer to Section
1.4.2.3, Framing the Z-Axis
).
Shaking Peltier Device Integration Manual
26Shaking Peltier Device
1.4.2.3Framing the Z-Axis
After the X- and Y-axes are framed, the Z-axis must be framed to ensure aspirate and
dispense operations are performed at the desired height. The final screen in Biomek 3000 Manual Teaching is for framing the Z-axis (Figure 1-23).
Figure 1-23. Manually teaching the Z-axis
1. In Delta, select the magnitude of change applied to the framing tool tip each time
a directional button is selected (Figure 1-23).
Note: The default Delta value is 0.05 cm. If the tip is a considerable distance
above the position, increase the distance traveled by increasing the Delta value
(maximum setting is 1.0 cm). If the tip is almost to the desired location, reduce
the Delta value (minimum setting is 0.005 cm).
2. Select the directional button representing the motion required to physically
move the tip down until the bottom of the tip is at the same height as the top of
the well. One way to determine that the tip is at the right height is to put a PostIt® note over the well and lower the tip until it just touches the Post-It note.
Note: Each time a directional button is selected, the pod and tips move the
distance specified in Delta in the indicated direction.
Note: The tips can be physically positioned over the wells of a microplate
using:
•the directional buttons in Manual Teach.
•the directional keys on the keyboard.
•the directional keys on the numeric keypad.
The directional buttons displayed in Manual Teach parallel the keys on the
numeric keypad. More specifically, Fwd. correlates to the ‘1’ on the numeric
keypad, while Down is found on the ‘2’, Left is found on the ‘4’, Right on ‘6’,
Up on ‘8’, and Back on ‘9’.
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Shaking Peltier Device27
3. Once the framing tool tip is at the same height as the top of the well, select
Finish. The pod moves up to its maximum height in the Z-axis, Manual
Teaching closes, and Position Properties appears (Figure 1-15).
4. Choose OK to save the framing information and close Position Properties.
5. Repeat the procedure to frame additional deck positions using manual teach.
6. Choose Save to save framing information for all positions and close the Deck Editor (Figure 1-14).
Note: Choosing Cancel loses all changes to the deck, including framing
information, since the Deck Editor was opened.
7. After all positions have been framed, remove the framing tool by pressing the
tool release button and carefully pulling the framing tool off the plunger.
Shaking Peltier Device Integration Manual
28Shaking Peltier Device
1.5Calibrating the Peltier Device Temperature
For best heating and cooling results, the Shaking Peltier Device should be calibrated
to the target temperature at which the Shaking Peltier Device is operated.
A calibration offset can be specified in the Watlow Controller to adjust for the
difference between the temperature displayed on the Watlow Controller and the actual
temperature at the point of interest. The calibration compares the display temperature
on the front of the Watlow Controller to the actual temperature measured for the target
using a calibrated thermometer or thermocouple. The target is the desired location for
which the temperature is controlled. For example, if using the Shaking Peltier Device
to control the temperature of a liquid in a reservoir, the target could be the center of a
reservoir with the desired liquid placed on the Peltier Device.
Note: For most accurate results, a new offset should be calculated when changing
the desired temperature, the adapter plate, or the labware or liquid type used on the
device.
1. Set up the Shaking Peltier Device with the target labware and liquid type.
2. Adjust the Peltier temperature to the desired temperature. Record this value as
the displayed temperature.
3. Allow the Peltier Device to reach a steady state at the desired temperature.
4. Measure the temperature of the target using a calibrated thermometer or
thermocouple. Record this value as the measured temperature.
5. Determine the calibration offset value be subtracting the displayed temperature
recorded in step 2 from the measured temperature recorded in step 4. For
example, if the Peltier Device was set to 15ºC but the temperature was measured
to be 13.7ºC, then the calibration value is 13.7ºC - 15ºC = -1.3ºC.
6. On the front of the Watlow Controller for the Shaking Peltier Device, push and
hold both arrow buttons.
7. Use the arrow keys to scroll until the User option appears.
8. Press the green button to enter the User menu.
9. Use the arrow keys to scroll to CAL1.
10. Enter the calibration offset value CAL determined in step 5 above.
11. Press the
∞ (infinity symbol) button to set the calibration offset.
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Shaking Peltier Device29
1.6Using the Shaking Peltier Device in a Method
Using the Shaking Peltier Device in a Biomek method requires using the Peltier Step
step that is displayed on the Peltier step palette (Figure 1-24). The Move Labware
step from the Basic Step Palette is used to move labware to and from the Shaking
Peltier Device (refer to the Biomek Software User’s Manual, Section 16.4, Move Labware Step).
Note: Make sure that the Shaking Peltier Device is associated with the Shaking
Peltier position in the Deck Editor (refer to Section 1.3.2, Adding the Shaking Peltier
Device to the Deck in the Deck Editor).
Peltier step palette
Peltier Move Step
The Peltier Move step is only used with
the Static Peltier Device. Use the Move Labware step from the Basic step palette
with the Shaking Peltier Device.
Figure 1-24. Peltier step palette displayed
Shaking Peltier Device Integration Manual
30Shaking Peltier Device
1.6.1Using the Peltier Step in a Biomek Method
The PeltierStep is used to allow labware to be incubated at a specified temperature
and time, with or without shaking, on the Shaking Peltier Device in a Biomek
method.
Figure 1-25. Peltier Step configuration
1. Drag and drop Peltier Step into the Method View (Figure 1-25).
2. From Using the device at position, choose the Peltier ALP on which the
labware is positioned.
3. Select the command to execute:
•Initialize — initiate communication between the Shaking Peltier
Device and the Biomek Controller PC. Initialize has no further
configuration.
•Incubate — hold labware at a specified temperature for a specified
duration, with or without shaking.
•Start Shaking — begin shaking a microplate on the Shaking Peltier
Device.
•Stop Shaking — stop shaking a microplate that is shaking on the
Shaking Peltier Device. Stop Shaking has no further configuration.
4. For Incubate, in for, enter the time in seconds to incubate the labware on the
Shaking Peltier Device.
Note: The incubation timer starts when the step is executed, even if it is not at
the specified temperature.
5. For Incubate, to set a specified temperature, ensure Set Temperature to is
checked and enter a temperature in degrees Celsius (4.0 to 50.0).
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Shaking Peltier Device31
6. For Incubate, select the Shake checkbox to shake the microplate during
incubation.
7. For Incubate or Start Shaking, in Shake at, enter the rate of shaking in
rotations per minute (RPM).
8. For Incubate, select Continue Shaking after incubation until device receives Open command to continue shaking the microplate after the
incubation is complete until the position is accessed for gripping or pipetting.
9. For Incubate or Start Shaking, select the desired shake style option:
•Use one shake style — shake the microplate using one shake
pattern.
•Alternate between two shake styles — shake the microplate using
a repeating pattern that alternates between two shake patterns.
10. In Shake using or Start shaking using, select the first shake pattern. If using
only one shake style, configuration is complete.
11. If alternating between two shake styles, in for, enter the length of time to shake
using the first shake style before changing to the second shake style.
12. In Next shake using, select the second shake pattern and enter the length of
time to shake using the second shake style before changing back to the first shake
style. This shake sequece repeats until the incubation is complete, the position is
accessed, or a Stop Shaking command is sent.
Shaking Peltier Device Integration Manual
32Shaking Peltier Device
1.7Manually Controlling the Shaking Peltier Device
Device Editor allows users to manually control Peltier ALP actions, such as
incubating, outside of methods.
1.7.1Configuring Options for the Peltier ALP
Configuration Options for the Shaking Peltier Device allow for the communications
port to which the Shaking Peltier Device is connected to be configured.
To set the configuration options for the Shaking Peltier Device:
1. From the Instrument menu, choose Device Editor. Device Editor appears
(Figure 1-26).
Figure 1-26. Selecting the Shaking Peltier Device in the Device Editor
•Initialize — intializes communications between the Biomek instrument
and the Shaking Peltier Device. There is no further configuration
required; go to step 14.
•Incubate — sets the temperature and incubates a plate for a specified
duration.
•Start Shaking — begin shaking a microplate on the Shaking Peltier
Device.
•Stop Shaking — stop shaking a microplate that is shaking on the
Shaking Peltier Device. Stop Shaking has no further configuration; go
to step 14.
Shaking Peltier Device Integration Manual
34Shaking Peltier Device
5. For Incubate, in for, enter the time in seconds to incubate the labware on the
6. For Incubate, to set a specified temperature, ensure Set Temperature to is
7. For Incubate, select the Shake checkbox to shake the microplate during
8. For Incubate or Start Shaking, in Shake at, enter the rate of shaking in
9. For Incubate, select Continue Shaking after incubation until device
10. For Incubate or Start Shaking, select the desired shake style option:
Shaking Peltier Device.
Note: The incubation timer starts when the step is executed, even if it is not at
the specified temperature.
checked and enter a temperature in degrees Celsius (4.0 to 50.0).
incubation.
rotations per minute (RPM).
receives Open command to continue shaking the microplate after the
incubation is complete until the position is accessed for gripping or pipetting.
•Use one shake style — shake the microplate using one shake
pattern.
•Alternate between two shake styles — shake the microplate using
a repeating pattern that alternates between two shake patterns.
11. In Shake using or Start shaking using, select the first shake pattern. If using
only one shake style, configuration is complete.
12. If alternating between two shake styles, in for, enter the length of time to shake
using the first shake style before changing to the second shake style.
13. In Next shake using, select the second shake pattern and enter the length of
time to shake using the second shake style before changing back to the first shake
style. This shake sequece repeats until the incubation is complete, the position is
accessed, or a Stop Shaking command is sent.
14. Choose Run Now to perform the configured Action.
15. Select Update after completing the action configuration. The ShakingPeltier
module action configuration closes.
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
1.8Preventive Maintenance
WARNING: ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD! Checking and changing the
coolant requires removing the covers from the Shaking Peltier Device,
exposing internal electrical components. Remove covers with care and
use caution when servicing the device.
Check the coolant fluid level every seven weeks and refill as necessary. Refer to the
Thermoshake Heating and Cooling Unit Manual for specific instructions.
Refer to the Thermoshake Heating and Cooling Unit Manual and the TEC Control 96 User’s Manual for additional maintenance procedures.
Shaking Peltier Device35
Shaking Peltier Device Integration Manual
36Shaking Peltier Device
1.9Troubleshooting
Refer to the Thermoshake Heating and Cooling Unit Manual and the TEC Control 96
User’s Manual for additional troubleshooting information.
Do not attempt to repair the unit without first contacting a Beckman Coulter Service
Engineer.
Table 1-1. Troubleshooting the Shaking Peltier Device
The Shaking Peltier Device is not
reaching the desired temperature.
Problems with communication
between the Shaking Peltier ALP and
the Biomek Controller PC.
IFTHEN
Make sure the correct adapter plate is
used (refer to Section 1.2.5, Installing
Adapter Plates).
Calibrate the Shaking Peltier Device
(refer to Section 1.5, Calibrating the
Peltier Device Temperature).
Check the coolant level in the
Shaking Peltier Device (refer to the
Thermoshake User’s Manual).
Make sure all serial cables are
connected correctly between the
Shaking Peltier Device, Watlow
Controller and PC controller.
Pipetting tools cannot accurately
access the bottom of wells placed on
the Shaking Peltier Device.
Biomek method does not pause
during incubate.
Connect the serial cable to a different
serial port on the PC.
Frame the Shaking Peltier Device
(refer to Section 1.4, Framing