Multidrop® Combi

User Manual
Rev. 1.0

Analyze • Detect • Measure • Control™

Multidrop® Combi
User Manual

Rev. 1.0
Copyright © 2005 Thermo Electron Corporation. All rights reserved. Printed in Finland. Reproduction of the
accompanying user documentation in whole or in part is prohibited.

The Multidrop Combi is protected by the following patent: US 4995432.

“Cliniplate”, “Combiplate”, “Immulon”, “Microfluor”, “Microtiter” and “Multidrop” are registered

trademarks of Thermo Electron.
“Microlite” is a trademark of Thermo Electron.

All other trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective holders.

Thermo Electron reserves the right to change its products and services at any time to incorporate technological
developments. This manual is subject to change without prior notice as part of a continuous product
development. Although this manual has been prepared with every precaution to ensure accuracy, Thermo
Electron assumes no liability for any errors or omissions, nor for any damages resulting from the application or
use of this information. This manual supersedes all previous editions.

Thermo Electron shall not be liable for any damages whatsoever arising out of the use or inability to use this
product.

Thermo Electron Microplate Instrumentation Business products are fully guaranteed against defective parts
and materials, including defects caused by poor workmanship, for a period of one year from the date of
delivery. Thermo will repair or replace defective parts or materials during the term of warranty at no extra
charge for materials and labor provided that the products were used and maintained in accordance with
Thermo’s instructions. The warranty is invalid if products have been misused or abused. For the warranty to
be effective, the product must have been purchased either directly from Thermo or from an authorized
Thermo distributor. The guarantee is not transferable to a third party without prior written approval from
Thermo. This guarantee is subject to the following exclusions:
● Any defects caused by normal wear and tear.
● Defects caused by fire, lightning, flood, earthquake, explosion, sabotage, war, riot, or any other occurrence
of the type listed above.
● Refurbished products that are subject to different warranty conditions.
THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES,
INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. The seller is not liable for any loss or damage arising out of or
in connection with the use of the product or other indirect damages. These warranty terms and conditions can
be obtained from your local Thermo dealer.

Consumables are not included in the warranty.

 About This User Manual
Intended users This User Manual is written for the actual user (e.g., laboratory
technician) and provides information on the Multidrop Combi,
including the installation and operating instructions.
Read the manual in its entirety before operating the instrument.

How to use this This User Manual is designed to give you the information to:
user manual ● Review safety precautions
● Setup the Multidrop Combi
● Use the Multidrop Combi internal software
● Carry out dispensing procedures
● Perform basic cleaning and maintenance procedures
● Troubleshoot the instrument performance
This User Manual also describes all the features and specifications of the
Multidrop Combi instrument. Refer to Chapter 7: “Technical
Specifications”.
In Chapter 4: “Routine Operation” you find explanations of the
dispensing principles and procedures and on how to use the Multidrop
Combi internal software.
In Chapter 9: “Troubleshooting Guide” you find explanations of error
and warning messages and a problem-solving guide. The user should be
familiar with the contents of Chapter 5: “Maintenance”.
For ordering information, refer to Chapter 10: “Ordering
Information”.

For more For the latest information on products and services, visit our worldwide
websites on the Internet at:
information
http://www.thermo.com
http://www.thermo.com/com/cda/product/detail/1,1055,10122226,00.ht
ml

In an effort to produce useful and appropriate documentation, we

appreciate your comments on this User Manual to your local Thermo
representative.

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 3

About This User Manual
Safety symbols and markings

Safety symbols These symbols are intended to draw your attention to particularly
important information and alert you to the presence of hazards as
and markings indicated.

Safety symbols and The following symbols and markings appear on the type label and the
markings used on instrument itself.
the Multidrop Combi

Power ON ▲

Power OFF ▲

Serial number ▲

Catalog number ▲

Date of manufacture ▲

Consult instructions for use ▲

WEEE symbol This product is required to comply with the European

Union’s Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive
2002/96/EEC. ▲

4 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 About This User Manual
Safety symbols and markings

Warning and other The following symbols and markings appear in this User Manual.
markings used in
the documentation

Warning Risk of electric shock. ▲

Warning Biohazard risk. ▲

Warning Risk of injury to the user(s). ▲

Caution Risk of damage to the instrument, other equipment or loss of

performance or function in a specific application. ▲

Note Marks a hint, important information that is useful in the

optimum operation of the system, or an item of interest. ▲

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 5

About This User Manual
Instrument safety and guidelines for use

Instrument safety ● Always follow basic safety precautions when using the Multidrop
Combi to reduce the risk of injury, biohazardous contamination,
and guidelines fire, or electrical shock.
for use ● Read this User Manual in its entirety prior to operating the
instrument. Failure to read, understand, and follow the instructions
in the manual may result in damage to the instrument, injury to
laboratory and operating personnel or poor instrument
performance.
● Observe all “Warning”, “Caution”, and “Note” statements as well as
safety symbols and markings on the instrument and in the
documentation.
● The Multidrop Combi is intended for laboratory research use only.
Observe proper laboratory safety precautions, such as wearing
protective clothing and following approved laboratory safety
procedures.
● Use of the Multidrop Combi in ways other than those described in
the documentation supplied with the equipment may result in
injury to persons or damage to the property. Avoid unintended use
of the equipment, for example, using incompatible materials,
making unauthorized modifications, using incompatible or
damaged parts, using unapproved auxiliary equipment or
accessories, or operating equipment in excess of maximum ratings.
● Preventative maintenance instructions should be followed closely to
keep the instrument in the best condition for maximum reliability.
A poorly maintained instrument will not give the best results.

6 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Contents
Intended users ................................................................................... 3
How to use this user manual ............................................................. 3
For more information ....................................................................... 3
Safety symbols and markings............................................................. 4
Safety symbols and markings used on the Multidrop Combi.......... 4
Warning and other markings used in the documentation ............... 5
Instrument safety and guidelines for use............................................ 6

Chapter 1 Introduction to the Multidrop Combi........................................................ 13

Intended use.................................................................................... 13
Principle of operation...................................................................... 13
Advantages of using Multidrop Combi ........................................... 15

Chapter 2 Functional Description ............................................................................... 17

Instrument layout............................................................................ 17
Front view.................................................................................... 17
Back view ..................................................................................... 18

Chapter 3 Installation .................................................................................................... 19

Delivery check................................................................................. 19
Checking delivery......................................................................... 19
Unpacking ................................................................................... 19
Requirements .................................................................................. 20
Precautions and limitations ............................................................. 20
Installation setups............................................................................ 21
Releasing the transport lock.......................................................... 21
Fastening the transport lock ......................................................... 22
Operational check ........................................................................... 23

Chapter 4 Routine Operation........................................................................................ 25

Priming vessel ................................................................................. 25
Dispensing cassettes ........................................................................ 25
Installing the cassette.................................................................... 27
Control panel.................................................................................. 31
Keyboard...................................................................................... 31
Keys .......................................................................................... 31
Display......................................................................................... 32
Navigating ................................................................................... 33
Dispensing ...................................................................................... 35
Three key selections to start dispensing ........................................ 36
Using internal software.................................................................... 37
Dispensing parameters .................................................................... 37
Plate type ..................................................................................... 37

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 7

Contents

Dispensing cassette and volume.................................................... 38

Column selection ......................................................................... 39
Protocol settings.............................................................................. 42
Dispensing speed.......................................................................... 42
Dispensing offset.......................................................................... 43
Dispensing height ........................................................................ 44
Predispensing volume................................................................... 45
Dispensing direction .................................................................... 46
Running a protocol ......................................................................... 48
Save and edit protocol .................................................................. 49
Select protocol.............................................................................. 52
Delete protocol ............................................................................ 52
Instrument options.......................................................................... 54
Computer interface ...................................................................... 54
Remote mode............................................................................... 55
Start-up protocol.......................................................................... 56
Contrast and buzzer ..................................................................... 57
Cassette calibration ...................................................................... 58
Screen saver..................................................................................... 59
Shutdown ....................................................................................... 60
Emergency situations ...................................................................... 61

Chapter 5 Maintenance .................................................................................................63

A) Instrument maintenance............................................................. 63
Regular and preventive maintenance ............................................ 63
Disposal of materials ....................................................................... 64
Decontamination procedure............................................................ 64
Packing for service........................................................................... 66
Service contracts.............................................................................. 66
Disposal of the instrument .............................................................. 66
B) Dispensing cassette maintenance ................................................ 67
Washing the dispensing cassette ................................................... 67
Cleaning the tips .......................................................................... 68
Cleaning the metal tips................................................................. 68
Autoclaving the dispensing cassette .............................................. 69
Changing the tubing set .................................................................. 69
Changing the tip band ................................................................. 70
Fitting the new tubing set step by step ......................................... 71
Disposal of the dispensing cassette................................................... 78

Chapter 6 Calibration of the Dispensing Cassette ...................................................79

Verifying and recalibrating the dispensing cassette........................... 79
Accuracy verification (gravimetric) ............................................... 79
Materials and equipment needed for accuracy verification......... 79
Accuracy verification procedure................................................. 80
Accuracy verification worksheet................................................. 81
Precision verification (photometric) ............................................. 83
Materials and equipment required for precision verification ...... 83
Precision verification procedure................................................. 83

8 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Contents

Calibration (gravimetric) .............................................................. 85

Material and equipment required for calibration ....................... 85
Calibration procedure ............................................................... 86

Chapter 7 Technical Specifications ........................................................................... 89

General specifications...................................................................... 89
Safety specifications......................................................................... 90
Live parts ..................................................................................... 90
In conformity with the requirements............................................... 90
Remote control to Multidrop Combi .............................................. 92

Chapter 8 Frequently Asked Questions...................................................................... 93

Chapter 9 Troubleshooting Guide ............................................................................... 97

Error and warning codes ................................................................. 97
Hazards........................................................................................... 99
Electrical ...................................................................................... 99
Mechanical................................................................................... 99
Environmental ........................................................................... 100
Defects and abnormal stresses..................................................... 100
Service request protocol................................................................. 100
Certificate of Decontamination..................................................... 101

Chapter 10 Ordering Information................................................................................. 103

Multidrop Combi ......................................................................... 103
Dispensing cassettes ...................................................................... 103
List of accessories .......................................................................... 103
List of plates .................................................................................. 104

Chapter 11 References .................................................................................................. 105

Literature ...................................................................................... 105

Appendix A 6 – 48-Well Plate Dispensing Instructions ........................................... 107

6-well plate settings ....................................................................... 109
12-well plate settings ..................................................................... 110
24-well plate settings ..................................................................... 111
48-well plate settings ..................................................................... 112

Appendix B Certificate of Decontamination............................................................... 113

Appendix C Multidrop Combi Feedback Form ........................................................... 115

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 9

Figures

Figures
Figure 1–1. Multidrop Combi microplate dispenser......................................14
Figure 2–2. Multidrop Combi front view........................................................17
Figure 2–3. Close-up of the Multidrop Combi keyboard and display............18
Figure 2–4. Multidrop Combi back view........................................................18
Figure 3–5. Transport lock and transport lock tag present ...........................21
Figure 3–6. Transport lock fastened ..............................................................21
Figure 3–7. Transport lock storage ................................................................22
Figure 3–8. Inserting the priming vessel .......................................................23
Figure 4–9. Priming vessel inserted into place .............................................25
Figure 4–10. Parts of a dispensing cassette .................................................26
Figure 4–11. Inserting the dispensing cassette ............................................27
Figure 4–12. Inserting the lower part of the dispensing cassette into its
slots..................................................................................................................27
Figure 4–13. Inserting the upper part of the dispensing cassette................28
Figure 4–14. Lower and upper parts of the dispensing cassette inserted
evenly into their slots ......................................................................................28
Figure 4–15. Correct placement of all the dispensing cassette tubes .........29
Figure 4–16. Pulling the tip protection off from the dispensing cassette ....29
Figure 4–17. Removing the tubing weight protection and rubber holder.....29
Figure 4–18. Cassette with the tip and tubing weight protections removed .30
Figure 4–19. Rest position of the dispensing cassette .................................30
Figure 4–20. Pulling the rotor cover over the rotor .......................................30
Figure 4–21. Keyboard of the Multidrop Combi ............................................31
Figure 4–22. Main view on the display of the Multidrop Combi ..................32
Figure 5–23. Pressing liquid through the tip..................................................69
Figure 5–24. Removing the cover plate of the lower part of the dispensing
cassette............................................................................................................70
Figure 5–25. Removing the old tip band........................................................70
Figure 5–26. Tip band removed .....................................................................70
Figure 5–27. New tip band.............................................................................71
Figure 5–28. New tubing set with the tip band attached .............................71
Figure 5–29. Inserting the tip manifold into the lower part of the dispensing
cassette............................................................................................................71
Figure 5–30. Pressing the tube fasteners into place.....................................72
Figure 5–31. New tubing inserted into the lower part of the dispensing
cassette............................................................................................................72
Figure 5–32. Tension limiting wires attached ...............................................72
Figure 5–33. Replacing the lower part cover of the dispensing cassette ....72
Figure 5–34. Parts belonging to the upper part of the dispensing cassette.73

10 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Figures

Figure 5–35. Placing the sight window......................................................... 73

Figure 5–36. Pressing the tubing identification plate into place.................. 73
Figure 5–37. Pressing the tube fasteners into place .................................... 74
Figure 5–38. Fastening the calibration screws ............................................. 74
Figure 5–39. Calibration screws fastened .................................................... 74
Figure 5–40. Replacing the cover of the upper part of the dispensing
cassette ........................................................................................................... 75
Figure 5–41. Ensuring the tubing does not get trapped ............................... 75
Figure 5–42. Fastening the cover retaining screws ...................................... 75
Figure 5–43. Inserting the cover on the calibration screws ......................... 76
Figure 5–44. Lower and upper part of the dispensing cassette fitted ......... 76
Figure 5–45. Dispensing cassette before calibration ................................... 76
Figure 5–46. Precalibrating the dispensing cassette.................................... 77
Figure 5–47. Dispensing cassette precalibrated........................................... 77
Figure 5–48. Inserting the tubes into the white Teflon tubing weight ........ 77
Figure 6–49. 8 x 12 well microstrips adjusted onto the plate adapter ........ 86
Figure 6–50. Removing the filled microstrip to be weighed......................... 87
Figure 6–51. Screwing a calibration screw according to the calibration
results .............................................................................................................. 87
Figure 11–52. Tube order in the dispensing cassette................................. 108
Figure A–53. Columns and channels for a 6-well plate setup ................... 109
Figure A–54. Columns and channels for a 12-well plate setup ................. 110
Figure A–55. Columns and channels for a 24-well plate setup ................. 111
Figure A–56. Columns and channels for a 48-well plate setup ................. 112

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 11

Tables

Tables
Table 4–1. Multidrop Combi dispensing cassettes .......................................26
Table 4–2. Icons in the main view .................................................................34
Table 4–3. Default parameter values for different plate types ....................38
Table 4–4. Dispensing volumes of the cassettes..........................................39
Table 4–5. Dispensing speeds .......................................................................43
Table 6–6. Volume conversion factor ............................................................81
Table 6–7. Example of an accuracy verification measured with a small tube
cassette at 22°C ..............................................................................................82
Table 6–8. Accuracy verification results .......................................................82
Table 6–9. Precision verification procedure data..........................................83
Table 6–10. Photometric test data.................................................................85
Table 7–11. Technical specifications.............................................................89
Table 9–12. Error messages reported............................................................97
Table 10–13. Instrument catalog number....................................................103
Table 10–14. Codes for dispensing cassettes.............................................103
Table 10–15. Codes for accessories ............................................................103
Table 10–16. Codes for plates .....................................................................104
Table A–17. Channel and column settings for a 6-well plate.....................109
Table A–18. Channel and column settings for a 12-well plate ..................110
Table A–19. Channel and column settings for a 24-well plate ..................111
Table A–20. Channel and column settings for a 48-well plate ..................112

12 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Chapter 1
Introduction to the Multidrop
Combi
The available model of the Multidrop Combi is:
● 5840300 Multidrop Combi, 100 – 240 V 50/60 Hz
Each Multidrop Combi comes with a sample of different dispensing
cassettes, including both small and standard tube cassettes. The
included cassettes can cover the whole volume area, which then
immediately enables full use of the instrument.

Intended use The Multidrop Combi microplate dispenser is intended for professional
research use by trained personnel. The instrument is intended for
automated dispensing of up to eight different reagents simultaneously
into a variety of microplates and strips in 96-, 384- or 1536-well plate
format. Use for self-testing is excluded.

Principle of The Multidrop Combi (Figure 1–1) is an automatic, programmable,

eight-channel microplate bulk reagent dispenser for microvolume
operation dispensing. It has a peristaltic pump for rapid and continuous
dispensing of liquids into various microplates. It can dispense 1 to 8
different reagents from external liquid reservoirs into different rows and
can be used in several applications, for example, in drug discovery/high-
throughput screening, genomic, proteomic and cell-based assays and
ELISA.
With a volume range of 0.5 to 2500 µl for 96-, 384- and 1536-well
plates with plate heights from 5 to 50 mm, the Multidrop Combi offers
outstanding flexibility for a wide range of applications. Also 6 – 48-well
plates as well as tubes in a 96-channel rack can be used. The Multidrop
Combi is lightweight, transportable and compact on a laboratory
bench. It can dispense 1 µl into the entire 384-well microplate in
5 seconds or 1 µl into the entire 1536-well microplate in 14 seconds.
An additional feature is that each column can be programmed to have
individual volumes. Note that the whole microplate does not have to be
filled. Refer to “Column selection” on page 39.
The Multidrop Combi uses detachable and autoclavable dispensing
cassettes. The dispensing cassette contains eight individual tubes. Each
reagent can have a separate dispensing cassette to avoid mixing of

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 13

Introduction to the Multidrop Combi
Principle of operation

reagents. Alternatively, the same dispensing cassette can be used with

several reagents if the dispensing cassette is washed in between use.
Refer to “Dispensing cassettes” on page 25. All eight reagent lines can
be backflushed to the reagent bottle to minimize the loss of expensive
reagents.

Figure 1–1. Multidrop Combi microplate dispenser

With the 96-well plate selection, the columns with 8 wells are filled
starting from column 1 according to the selected columns, after which
the plate carrier returns to the home position and the pump lifting
mechanism to the up position. Row wise and column wise dispensing
show no differences in 96-well plate dispensing.
With the 384-well plate selection, the columns with 16 wells are filled
in two phases: first every other row (A, C, E, G, ... O) starting from the
columns selected and then the pump carrier shifts sideways so that the
remaining rows (B, D, F, H, ... P) are filled in the opposite order. If
column wise dispensing is used, it shifts the pump carrier first sideways
filling 16 wells and then the plate carrier moves dispensing over the next
column.
With the 1536-well plate selection, the columns with 32 wells are filled
in four phases: first every fourth row (A, E, I, M … AC) and then the
pump carrier shifts sideways above the rows (B, F, J, N … AD), which
are then filled in the opposite order. After three shifts the remaining
rows (D, H, L, P … AF) are filled. Column wise dispensing shifts the
pump carrier sideways three times filling 32 wells and then the plate
carrier moves the dispensing head over the next column.
In 384- and 1536-well plate mode, row wise and column wise
dispensing can be effectively used.
The Multidrop Combi can be used as a stand-alone instrument or
controlled with a PC via an RS-232 or an USB serial port as part of a
robotic system.

14 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Introduction to the Multidrop Combi
Advantages of using Multidrop Combi

Advantages of The Multidrop Combi microplate dispenser provides several advantages

relating mainly to the principle of operation in that it has:
using Multidrop
● Flexible volume range of 0.5 – 2500 µl
Combi
● Flexible plate height of 5 – 50 mm
● Superior precision covering the whole volume range
● Easy-to-use visual user interface
● Dispensing of column-specific volumes
● Backflush feature
● High-speed dispensing of microvolumes
● Robot compatibility and versatile remote control commands
● Autoclavable and detachable dispensing cassette and priming vessel

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 15

Introduction to the Multidrop Combi
Advantages of using Multidrop Combi

16 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Chapter 2
Functional Description
Instrument This section shows the front and back views of the Multidrop Combi
instrument.
layout
Front view The front view of the Multidrop Combi instrument is shown in
Figure 2–2.

Display

Keyboard
Rotor cover

Pump body

Priming vessel Plate carrier

Figure 2–2. Multidrop Combi front view

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 17

Functional Description
Instrument layout

The close-up of the Multidrop Combi keyboard and display is shown in

Figure 2–3.

Display

Keyboard

Figure 2–3. Close-up of the Multidrop Combi keyboard and display

Back view The back view of the Multidrop Combi instrument is shown in
Figure 2–4.

WEEE
symbol Mains connector Mains switch
Instrument
label

Serial
connector

USB

Figure 2–4. Multidrop Combi back view

18 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Chapter 3
Installation

Delivery check This section covers the relevant procedures to be carried out on receipt
of the instrument.

Checking delivery Check the enclosed packing list against order. In case of any deviations,
contact your local Thermo representative or Thermo Electron Oy.
Visually inspect the transport package, the instrument and the
accessories for any possible transport damage.
If the carton has been damaged in transit, it is particularly important
that you retain it for inspection by the carrier in case there has also been
damage to the instrument.
Neither the manufacturer nor its agents can be held responsible for any
damage incurred in transit, but the manufacturer will make every effort
to help obtain restitution from the carrier. Upon receipt of the carrier's
inspection report, arrangements will be made for repair or replacement.
If any parts are damaged, contact your local Thermo representative or
Thermo Electron Oy.
Unpacking Move the packed instrument to its site of operation. Unpack the
Multidrop Combi instrument and accessories carefully with the arrows
on the transport package pointing upwards. The following notes and
instructions are sent with the instrument and are immediately available
when you open the package:
● the Warranty Certificate card
● the Packing instructions/Packing list
● the User Manual and Quick Reference Guide
● the Transportation discrepancy report
Retain the original packaging and packing material for future
transportation. The packaging is designed to assure safe transport and
minimize transit damage. Use of alternative packaging materials may
invalidate the warranty. Also retain all instrument-related
documentation provided by the manufacturer for future use.

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 19

Installation
Requirements

Requirements When you set up your Multidrop Combi, avoid sites of operation with
excess dust, vibrations, strong magnetic fields, direct sunlight, draft,
excessive moisture or large temperature fluctuations.
● Make sure the working area is flat, dry, clean and vibration-proof
and leave additional room for accessories, cables, reagent bottles,
and so on.
● Make sure the ambient air is clean and free of corrosive vapors,
smoke and dust.
● Make sure the ambient temperature range is between +10°C (50°F)
and +40°C (104°F).
● Make sure relative humidity is between 10% and 80% (non-
condensing).
Leave sufficient space (at least 10 cm) on both sides and at the back of
the unit to allow adequate air circulation.
The Multidrop Combi does not produce operating noise at a level that
would be harmful. No sound level measurements are required after
installation.
Place the instrument on a normal laboratory bench. The net weight of
the entire equipment is approx. 9.1 kg (15.7 lbs.) and the dispensing
cassette 128 g (0.3 lb.).
The instrument operates at voltages of 100 – 240 Vac and a frequency
range of 50/60 Hz.

Precautions and ● Always ensure that the local supply voltage in the laboratory
conforms to that specified on the rating label on the back of the
limitations instrument (Figure 2–4).
● Do not smoke, eat or drink while using the Multidrop Combi.
● Wash your hands thoroughly after handling test fluids.
● Observe normal laboratory procedures for handling potentially
dangerous samples.
● Wear proper protection clothing, such as disposable gloves,
laboratory coats, and so on according to good laboratory practice.
● Ensure that the working area is well ventilated.
● Never spill fluids in or on the equipment.

20 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Installation
Installation setups

Installation This section describes the installation setups that you must carry out
before operating or relocating the instrument.
setups
Warning Ensure that the mains switch (Figure 2–4) at the left of the
back panel is in the OFF position. Also ensure that the mains supply
cable is disconnected. ▲

Releasing the The instrument has a transport lock (Figure 3–5).

transport lock Make sure the red transport lock is released before operating the
instrument.

Figure 3–5. Transport lock and transport lock tag present

1. Unscrew the two screws marked 1 and 2 of the transport lock with
the hexagonal screwdriver supplied (Figure 3–6) so that the track
mechanism is loosened.

Screw 1

Screw 2

Figure 3–6. Transport lock fastened

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 21

Installation
Installation setups

2. Remove the screws, the transport lock piece and the transport lock
tag from the screw marked 1 (Figure 3–6). Keep the tag for future
relocation or transportation of the instrument. The transport lock is
now released.

3. After that fasten the red transport lock piece to the back panel of
the dispenser with the same screws for storage (Figure 3–7). Keep
the transport lock there until needed for future relocation or
transportation of the instrument.

Figure 3–7. Transport lock storage

Fastening the 1. Remove the transport lock from the back panel of the instrument
transport lock (Figure 3–7).

2. First fasten the transport lock piece with screw 1 to the pump body.
Then adjust the pump mechanism height and plate carrier position
to fasten screw 2 (Figure 3–6).

22 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Installation
Operational check

Operational Complete the following procedure without the dispensing cassette to

confirm the correct functioning of the dispenser prior to normal use.
check
1. Connect the mains supply cable and switch the instrument on using
the mains switch (Figure 2–4).
● If the instrument starts properly:
● The display lights up.
● The plate carrier moves to the home position and the pump
lifting mechanism to the up position.

2. Install the priming vessel pressing it over a snap lock (Figure 3–8).

Figure 3–8. Inserting the priming vessel

3. Pull the rotor cover over the rotor (Figure 4–20).

4. Press PRIME.
● The lifting mechanism is lowered and the pump rotates as long as
you press PRIME.

5. Press START.
● The dispensing protocol selected with the user interface is started.

If the protocol or predispense is not started, follow the instructions on

the display or check Chapter 9: “Troubleshooting Guide”.

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 23

Installation
Operational check

24 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Chapter 4
Routine Operation
Priming vessel Ensure that the priming vessel is inserted correctly into its slot on the
left of the plate carrier. You have fastened it correctly when you slide it
over a snap lock. Make sure you have a tube assembly or a cap inserted
into the drain of the priming vessel (Figure 4–9) or a vessel underneath
the drain.

Safety grooves –
designed to slope and prevent
fluid from entering the instrument
Priming vessel –
with a crest
in the middle where the
priming liquid is aimed at
to avoid splashing and a
drain

Figure 4–9. Priming vessel inserted into place

Dispensing The Multidrop Combi can be used with dispensing cassettes with
different tubing sizes.
cassettes
The different dispensing cassettes of the Multidrop Combi are
presented below. See Table 4–1, Figure 4–10 and Table 10–14.

Caution With small tube cassettes, ensure that the liquid or reagent
does not contain any particles > 50 µm and that the liquid container is
covered. Avoid dust or any particles > 50 µm when operating with the
dispensing cassette. ▲

Note Do not touch the dispensing cassette tips or the tubing inlet to
ensure trouble-free dispensing. Thermo Electron assumes no liability for
the use of third-party dispensing cassettes. ▲

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 25

Routine Operation
Dispensing cassettes

Table 4–1. Multidrop Combi dispensing cassettes

Picture Code Item Dispensing Reagent Tubing Tip Autoclava-
range pretreatment material material bility
and ∅ and
inner ∅

24073290 Small tube 0.5-50 µl preferably silicone PP 10 times

plastic tip filtered, 0.4 mm 0.22 mm
dispensing < 50 µm
cassette, particles
green

24073295 Small tube 0.5-50 µl preferably silicone stainless 10 times

metal tip filtered, 0.4 mm steel
dispensing < 50 µm 0.22 mm
cassette, particles
gray

24072670 Standard 5-2500 µl – silicone PP 50 times

tube 1.3 mm 0.5 mm
dispensing
cassette,
black

8 silicone tubings Tip protection

Plastic covers

Tension
limiting wires

Tips

Sight window
with sight strip
Tubing weight
Tubing weight
protection

Figure 4–10. Parts of a dispensing cassette

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 Routine Operation
Dispensing cassettes

Installing the 1. Take the lower part of the cassette with the tip protection (only in
cassette small tube cassettes) into your right hand with the dispensing
cassette tips pointing down and the upper part into your left hand
(Figure 4–11).

Figure 4–11. Inserting the dispensing cassette

2. Carefully place the eight tubes below the pump rotor and insert the
lower part of the dispensing cassette into the lower part slots of the
pump body (Figure 4–12). Check that the tubes are freely placed
below the pump rotor and the tension limiting wires below the
rotor shaft.
Lower part slots

Figure 4–12. Inserting the lower part of the dispensing cassette into its
slots

3. Take a firm grip on the upper part of the dispensing cassette with
your right hand and carefully pull the tubes around the pump rotor
until the upper part reaches and fits into the upper part slots of the
pump body (Figure 4–13). Insert into the slots. Hold onto the
instrument firmly with your other hand.

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Routine Operation
Dispensing cassettes

Figure 4–13. Inserting the upper part of the dispensing cassette

Note The tension limiting wires are designed to prevent the user from
pulling the tubes too much as excessive tension may damage the tubes
or change the calibration of the dispensing cassette. ▲

4. Double-check that both the upper and the lower parts of the
dispensing cassette are properly placed into their corresponding slots
(Figure 4–13 and Figure 4–14).

Upper part slots

Figure 4–14. Lower and upper parts of the dispensing cassette inserted
evenly into their slots

5. Ensure that all the tubes are evenly placed on the rotor needles
(Figure 4–15), four tubes on each half of the pump rotor.

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 Routine Operation
Dispensing cassettes

Figure 4–15. Correct placement of all the dispensing cassette tubes

6. Ensure that the tension limiting wires have a loose fit around the
rotor shaft.

7. With small tube cassettes, pull the tip protection off from the
dispensing cassette once the dispensing cassette has been installed
(Figure 4–16).

8. Remove the tubing weight protection by removing the rubber

holder and pulling the tubing weight out of the tubing protection
tube (Figure 4–17 and Figure 4–18).

Figure 4–16. Pulling the tip protection off from the dispensing cassette

Figure 4–17. Removing the tubing weight protection and rubber holder

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Routine Operation
Dispensing cassettes

Figure 4–18. Cassette with the tip and tubing weight protections removed

9. Place the tubing weight into the reagent vessel, and always ensure
that there is sufficient liquid present to run the protocol.
During prolonged standby, keep the cassette in its rest position
(Figure 4–19).

Figure 4–19. Rest position of the dispensing cassette

10. Pull the rotor cover over the rotor (Figure 4–20). A sensor controls
that the cover is properly placed over the pump rotor. The
Multidrop Combi is now ready for priming.

Figure 4–20. Pulling the rotor cover over the rotor

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 Routine Operation
Control panel

Control panel This section describes the Multidrop Combi control panel and internal
software.
Keyboard The keyboard is shown in Figure 4–21.

Control buttons

Arrow keys and OK button

Figure 4–21. Keyboard of the Multidrop Combi

Keys The relevant keys and control buttons are described in detail below.

The arrow keys are used to select, modify and change the parameters
and to navigate in the main view.

The OK button is used to accept the selection.

The START button is used to start the dispensing protocol.

The STOP button is used to stop the protocol at any time. The plate
and pump body are returned to the home position.
While editing values, the changes can be discarded by pressing the
STOP button.
The STOP button is also used to stop the shaking action.

Note In addition, the STOP button is used as an “Esc” (Escape)/

“Cancel” button. ▲

The PRIME button is used to fill the tubings of the cassette and
predispense.
Predispenses as long as you press the button.

The EMPTY button is used to empty the liquid from the dispensing
cassette into the liquid reservoir (backflush option).
Empties as long as you press the button.

The SHAKE button is used to shake the plate linearly. The shaking is
started by pressing the SHAKE button and stopped by pressing the
STOP button.

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Routine Operation
Control panel

Display The main view in the display is shown in Figure 4–22.

Menu tabs

Icon Main view row

Info text bar

Figure 4–22. Main view on the display of the Multidrop Combi

There are three menu tabs in the Multidrop Combi user interface:
Main, Settings and Options. In routine use you mainly navigate in the
Main menu. In advanced level options there are two extra levels,
Settings and Options. You can navigate between these three menu
levels using the Left and Right arrow keys.

The main view row is either colored (active) or uncolored (inactive).

All the descriptive icons used in the main view are shown in Table 4–2
below.
The info text bar shows explanatory information on how to proceed and
which keys to use.

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 Routine Operation
Control panel

Navigating This section visualizes navigation in the Multidrop Combi user

interface.

The main view changes according to the selections you make either
with the Up and Down arrow keys or the OK button. The available
buttons and their function are shown on the info text bar.

Active item

Available buttons and

their function

The color of the items, for example, the icon and main view row, in the
main view changes when they are selected (active/inactive).

To move from one menu to another, make sure you are in the main
view of one of the menus and use the Left and Right arrow keys.

The main views of each menu tab are shown below.

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Routine Operation
Control panel

Table 4–2. Icons in the main view

Menu tab Icon Function
“Plate type” on page 37

“Dispensing cassette and volume” on page 38

“Column selection” on page 39

“Save and edit protocol” on page 49

“Dispensing speed” on page 43

“Dispensing offset” on page 43

“Dispensing height” on page 44

“Predispensing volume” on page 45

“Dispensing direction” on page 46

“Computer interface” on page 54

“Remote mode” on page 55

“Start-up protocol” on page 56

“Contrast and buzzer” on page 57

“Cassette calibration” on page 58

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 Routine Operation
Dispensing

Dispensing You can immediately start dispensing by following the quick start
guidelines below. Routine dispensing only requires to key in a few
buttons.

1. Power ON the instrument.

2. Insert the correct dispensing cassette and the priming vessel. Close the
rotor cover.

3. Make sure you are in the Main menu.

4. Select the plate type and insert the plate.

5. First select the cassette type and then the dispensing volume.

6. Keep the PRIME button down until the tubings are completely filled.

7. Press the START button to start the protocol. The instrument dispenses
the plate.

8. Press the EMPTY button to empty the dispensing tubing.

9. During prolonged standby, keep the cassette in its rest position.

Remove the cassette when the maximum amount of plates are dispensed
or you want to change the cassette type in use.

10. Power OFF the instrument.

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Routine Operation

Three key After the instrument is turned on, make the following selections to start
selections to start dispensing when you are in the Main menu: plate type, dispensing
volume and cassette, and number of columns. For more information,
dispensing refer to “Dispensing parameters” on page 37.

1 – Plate type, see Step 3 on p. 35.

If the plate type is correct,

press
If you want to change the
plate type, press
Select the plate type
with
To accept, press

2 – Volume and cassette, see Step 4 on p. 35.

If the volume is correct,

press
If you want to change the
volume, press
Select the appropriate
cassette with
Set the needed volume
with
To accept, press

3 – Columns, see Step 5 on p. 35.

If you intend to fill the

whole plate, you can start
dispensing after priming
the instrument.

If you intend to fill only part

of the columns, press
and

To select the columns,

navigate with
and to confirm each
selection, press

Last, select Accept with

When the Accept box is
highlighted, press
Selected column(s) = red
You are now ready to start
after filling the tubes
through predispense.

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 Routine Operation
Using internal software

Using internal This section describes procedures related to the Multidrop Combi
internal software.
software
Dispensing This section describes the relevant dispensing parameters required to
create and edit a protocol. All these parameters are set in the Main
parameters menu.
Note Make the plate type selection first because all the other
parameters are dependent on the plate type. ▲

Caution Make sure the plate lid (if used) is removed before
dispensing. ▲

Plate type Go to the Main menu.

Press OK.

Select the plate type using the Up and Down arrow keys.

Press OK to accept the selection.

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Routine Operation
Dispensing parameters

The available plate types and the default parameter values are given in
Table 4–3. Each plate type has a selected default dispensing cassette
type, which is automatically set by the instrument.
Table 4–3. Default parameter values for different plate types
Plate type Cassette Max. Dispensing
type dispensing height (mm) **
volume * (µl)
96-well standard (15 mm) Standard 500 16
96-well low DW (deep well) (22 mm) Standard 600 23
96-well DW (44 mm) Standard 2500 45
384-well low volume (7.5 mm) Small 25 8.5
384-well low profile (10 mm) Small 70 11
384-well standard (15 mm) Small 130 16
384-well DW (22 mm) Standard 200 23
384-well DW (44 mm) Standard 300 45
1536-well low volume (5 mm) Small 2 6
1536-well standard (10.5 mm) Small 13 11.5

* You can dispense without warning to the maximum dispensing volume, but once the maximum is
exceeded, a warning appears and you have to press OK to continue dispensing.
** The default dispensing height is 1 mm above the selected plate.

Note If the default plate values do not agree with yours, change the
dispensing offset and height values under the Settings menu tab. You
can save the plate values for future use. ▲

Dispensing cassette There are two types of dispensing cassettes available, Small tube cassette
and volume (either plastic tip or metal tip) and Standard tube cassette. Refer to
“Dispensing cassettes” on page 25 and Table 10–14. Each dispensing
cassette type covers a specific volume area.
Go to the Main menu. Select the Volume and cassette row.

Press OK. The default cassette type and dispensing volume for the
selected plate type are shown.

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 Routine Operation
Dispensing parameters

Max. volume

Min. volume

First select the cassette type using the Left and Right arrow keys.

Then select the dispensing volume using the Up and Down arrow keys.
You can speed up the selection by holding down the arrow key
continuously.
The minimum and maximum dispensing volumes are displayed in the
Volume and cassette window. See Table 4–4 below.

Table 4–4. Dispensing volumes of the cassettes

Cassette Volume range (µl) Increment (µl)
Small tube cassette 0.5…50 0.5
Standard tube cassette 5…2500 5

The default cassette types and dispensing volumes for different plate
types are given in Table 4–3.

Accept the selections using the OK button.

Ensure that the cassette selection corresponds to the installed cassette.
Column selection You can dispense either into the whole plate or only into certain
selected columns. Go to the Main menu. Select the Column selection
row.

Press OK.

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Routine Operation
Dispensing parameters

If you want to dispense into all the wells of the plate, select Full plate if
it is not already shown on the screen. If you want to dispense only into
some of the wells, select Selected columns… using the Down arrow
key.

Column number

Use the arrow keys to move from one column to the next.

Press the OK button every time to select a column. The selected column
becomes red. Use the OK button to toggle between a filled or empty
column.

Use the Down arrow key and select Accept and press OK after selecting
all the columns you wish.

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 Routine Operation
Dispensing parameters

You can press the STOP button to exit the column selection without
making any changes.

The dispensing volume selected in the Volume and cassette window

(see “Dispensing cassette and volume” on page 38) is shown in the
bottom left box. You can adjust the dispensing volume for each
individual column.

Volume value box

Press the OK button for 0.5 seconds. The Volume value box is now
activated (bright red). Adjust the dispensing volume of the column
where the cursor is located using the Up and Down arrow keys.

Press OK after selecting the desired volume.

You can press the STOP button to exit the volume selection without
making any changes.

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Routine Operation
Protocol settings

Protocol settings This section describes the additional parameters that supplement the
plate type you have selected. These additional parameters are set in the
Settings menu. The values shown in the Settings menu are those set for
the plate type that is selected in the Main menu.

Note The protocol settings do not normally have to be changed in

routine use. ▲

Note An exclamation mark will appear in the menu tab and in the
circle on the main view row in question when the setting differs from
the default parameter setting. ▲

The changes made to the protocol settings only remain in the

instrument memory if the protocol is saved with a name (see “Save and
edit protocol” on page 49). If the protocol is not saved, the changes
only remain effective until the plate type is changed or the instrument is
switched off.
Dispensing speed The default dispensing speed is High, but you can change the
dispensing speed, for example, to reduce foaming.
Go to the Settings menu. Select the Pump speed row.

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 Routine Operation
Protocol settings

Press OK.

Use the Up and Down arrow keys to select the pump speed. The
available settings are High, Med (medium) and Low. The recommended
speed is High.

Press OK.

Table 4–5. Dispensing speeds

Speed Small tube cassette (rpm) Standard tube cassette (rpm)
HIGH 900 285
MED 733 255
LOW 567 225

Dispensing offset The default dispensing offset is 0.0/0.0 mm. You can change the x- and
y-axis offset values if the plate used is not the standard one specified in
the plate type list (see Table 4–3).
Go to the Settings menu. Select the Dispensing offset row.

Press OK.

The track mechanism and pump body move to the setting position.

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Routine Operation
Protocol settings

Use the Left and Right arrow keys to set the dispensing offset in the
x-axis and the Up and Down arrow keys to set it in the y-axis direction.
While you change the offset values, the pump body moves *
accordingly. The offset is set in 0.05 mm increments in both the + and
– directions. The maximum offset value depends on the selected plate
type.

Press OK. If the OK button is not pressed within 60 seconds, the

adjustments are disregarded and the main view returns to the Settings
menu.

* y-axis = the pump body moves;

x-axis = the plate carrier moves

Dispensing height The default dispensing height depends on the plate type
(see Table 4–3). You can change the dispensing height values if the
plate used is not the standard one specified in the plate type list.
Go to the Settings menu. Select the Dispensing height row.

Press OK.

The track mechanism and pump body move to the setting position.

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 Routine Operation
Protocol settings

Use the Up and Down arrow keys to set the dispensing height. While
you change the height, the pump body moves accordingly. The height
is set in 0.05 mm increments in both the up and down directions. The
minimum height value depends on the selected plate type (see
Table 4–3). The default dispensing height is 1 mm above the selected
plate.

Press OK. If the OK button is not pressed within 60 seconds, the

adjustments are disregarded and the main view returns to the Settings
menu.

Predispensing You can change the predispensing volume – the volume that is
volume automatically dispensed before the start of plate filling, if necessary.
Some more viscose solutions used may sometimes require extra
predispensing.
Go to the Settings menu. Select the Predispense (Prime) row.

Press OK.

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Routine Operation
Protocol settings

Use the Up and Down arrow keys to set the predispensing volume.
The volume ranges from 2 (small tube cassettes)/10 (standard tube
cassette) to 10000 µl in 1 µl increments. For default predispensing
values for different plate types, see Table 4–3.

Press OK.

Dispensing The row wise dispensing direction is default for each plate type.
direction However, you may change the dispensing direction, if necessary.
Go to the Settings menu. Select the Dispensing direction row.

Press OK.

Row wise direction

Column wise direction

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 Routine Operation
Protocol settings

Use the Up and Down arrow keys to set the dispensing direction,
row wise or column wise. Note that the whole action is only effective
when 384 or 1536 plate types are selected.

Press OK.

With the 96-well plate selection, the columns with 8 wells are filled
starting from column 1 according to the selected columns, after which
the plate carrier returns to the home position and the pump lifting
mechanism to the up position. Row wise and column wise dispensing
show no differences in 96-well plate dispensing.
With the 384-well plate selection, the columns with 16 wells are filled
in two phases: first every other row (A, C, E, G, ... O) starting from the
columns selected and then the pump carrier shifts sideways so that the
remaining rows (B, D, F, H, ... P) are filled in the opposite order. If
column wise dispensing is used, it shifts the pump carrier first sideways
filling 16 wells and then the plate carrier moves dispensing over the next
column.
With the 1536-well plate selection, the columns with 32 wells are filled
in four phases: first every fourth row (A, E, I, M … AC) and then the
pump carrier shifts sideways above the rows (B, F, J, N … AD), which
are then filled in the opposite order. After three shifts the remaining
rows (D, H, L, P … AF) are filled. Column wise dispensing shifts the
pump carrier sideways three times filling 32 wells and then the plate
carrier moves the dispensing head over the next column.
In 384- and 1536-well plate mode, row wise and column wise
dispensing can be effectively used.

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Routine Operation
Running a protocol

Running a To run a dispensing protocol, follow the steps below.

protocol
Note Do not dispense extensively without any liquid.
● Check that there is always enough liquid in the reservoir and ensure
that all the tube ends are below the liquid level. Use the white
PTFE (Teflon) tubing weight supplied.
● Check after each dispensing that the priming vessel is not filled
up. ▲

1. Make sure you are in the Main menu.

2. Select the plate type.

3. Select the dispensing protocol from the

protocol list.

4. Keep the PRIME button down until the tubings

are completely filled.

5. Press the START button to start the protocol.

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 Routine Operation
Running a protocol

Save and edit Go to the Main menu. Select the Save and Edit Protocol row.
protocol

Press OK.

Press the Right arrow key to name/edit the name of your protocol.

Enter the name of your protocol.

Use the arrow keys to choose the character you want.

Press OK to enter the said character.

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Routine Operation
Running a protocol

The available characters are a to z, 0 to 9, hyphen (-), full stop (.) and
... , ... , , space.

Note Use max. 20 characters, including the space character. Some of

the characters are broader than the others, whereby some of the names
you edit will display less than 20 characters in the protocol list, shown
as three dots at the displayed name. The protocol name is automatically
capitalized. ▲

Backspace button

To remove characters, use the Backspace button. Use the Down arrow
key (and if needed, the Left and Right arrow keys) to select the
Backspace button and then the OK button to remove the character(s).

Use the Down arrow key to select the Save button and then press the
OK button to save the edited protocol name.

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 Routine Operation
Running a protocol

The sandglass window will appear while the Save action is in progress.

The protocol name is now shown on the Save and Edit Protocol row.

You can create a maximum of 100 protocols, including the factory

defined protocols.
When you save the protocol, all the following parameters are saved:

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Routine Operation
Running a protocol

Select protocol To select an existing protocol for a particular plate type, first select the
plate type (see “Plate type” on page 37) and then select the Save and
Edit Protocol row.

Press OK.

Select the protocol using the Up and Down arrow keys.

Press OK to accept the selection.

The protocol is now selected.

Note In the protocol list only the protocols made for the plate type in
question are shown. ▲

Delete protocol To delete an existing protocol for a particular plate type, first select the
plate type (see “Plate type” on page 37) and then select the Save and
Edit Protocol row.

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 Routine Operation
Running a protocol

Press OK.

Select the protocol using the Up and Down arrow keys.

Press the Right arrow key to enter the edit mode.

Delete button

To delete the protocol, use the Delete button. Use the Down arrow
key (and if needed, the Left and Right arrow keys) to select the Delete
button and then the OK button to delete the protocol. You cannot
delete default protocols (the Delete button is not activated). Also, if
you have selected a protocol to be a start-up protocol, it cannot be
deleted.

The protocol is now deleted.

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Routine Operation
Instrument options

Instrument This section describes the instrument parameters. All these parameters
are set in the Options menu. The values shown in the Options menu
options remain in the instrument memory and are instrument specific, not
protocol specific.

Note You do not normally have to change the instrument options in

routine use. ▲

The sandglass window will appear while the Save action is in progress.

Computer interface There are two types of computer interfaces available: RS-232 and USB.
Go to the Options menu. Select the Computer interface row.

Press OK.

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 Routine Operation
Instrument options

Use the Up and Down arrow keys to select the computer interface in
use.

Press OK.

Remote mode The Multidrop Combi can emulate the Multidrop 384 and Multidrop
Micro command sets when in remote use. Thus it enables replacement
of an old Multidrop unit with a Multidrop Combi. Select the dispenser
in remote mode in question. Refer to “Remote control to Multidrop
Combi” on page 92.
Go to the Options menu. Select the Remote mode row.

Press OK.

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Routine Operation
Instrument options

Use the Up and Down arrow keys to select the remote mode in use.

Press OK.

Start-up protocol You can set which protocol is automatically selected in the Main menu
when the Multidrop Combi is powered on.
Go to the Options menu. Select the Start-up protocol row.

Press OK.

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 Routine Operation
Instrument options

Use the Up and Down arrow keys to select the start-up protocol. The
protocols are listed grouped and indented under each plate type.

Press OK.

The protocol name is appended with the plate type.

When the instrument is started up the next time, the plate type and the
protocol are those just selected.
Contrast and buzzer You can adjust the contrast of the display to suit the lighting conditions
in the laboratory. You can also choose whether or not the instrument
produces a tone for different functions. Note that all functions make a
certain sound. Go to the Options menu. Select the Contrast and
buzzer (Instrument settings) row.

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Routine Operation
Instrument options

Press OK.

Use the Left and Right arrow keys to adjust the contrast. The display is
dimmer when the slider is more to the left and brighter when it is more
to the right.

Press OK.

Use the Left and Right arrow keys to select whether the buzzer (audible
tone) is On or Off.

Press OK.

Cassette calibration You can calibrate the dispensing pump. It is possible to calibrate the
cassettes for different fluids. There are two different calibration modes
available: Gravimetric and Standard tube volumetric (see “Verifying and
recalibrating the dispensing cassette” on page 79).
Go to the Options menu. Select the Calibration row.

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 Routine Operation
Screen saver

Press OK.

Use the Up and Down arrow keys to select the calibration mode.

Press OK.

Screen saver The Multidrop Combi screen saver shown below appears when the
instrument has not been used for 20 minutes. You can deactivate the
screen saver and return to the previous display by pressing any key.

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Routine Operation
Shutdown

Shutdown To shut down the Multidrop Combi, follow these steps:

Warning Remove any microplates still on the instrument. Dispose of

all microplates and strips as biohazardous waste. ▲

1. After all the plates have been dispensed, press the EMPTY button to
return the reagent or liquid from the tubes to the reservoir.

2. If there is only a break of a few minutes in dispensing, no washing

or cleaning of the tubes is necessary. However, after pressing the
EMPTY button, release the tubing tension by pulling the upper part
of the dispensing cassette from its slots and place it into its rest
position slots located on the left-hand side of the rotor
(Figure 4–19).

3. If there is a longer break (e.g., a day), wash the dispensing cassette

by priming it with deionized distilled aqua or with special washing
detergent if necessary.

4. After washing and emptying, store the dispensing cassette in the rest
position (Figure 4–19).

5. Switch the Multidrop Combi off by pressing the mains switch

(Figure 2–4) at the left of the back panel of the instrument into the
OFF position.

6. Wipe the instrument surfaces with a soft cloth or tissue paper

moistened with deionized distilled aqua, a mild detergent (SDS,
sodium dodecyl sulfate) or soap solution.

7. If you have spilt infectious agents on the dispenser, disinfect with

70% alcohol or some other disinfectant (see “Decontamination
procedure” on page 64).

Note Keep the dispensing cassette in the rest position when the
dispensing cassette is not in use (Figure 4–19). ▲

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 Routine Operation
Emergency situations

Emergency In case there is any abnormal situation during operation, such as fluids
spilling inside the instrument, follow these steps:
situations
1. Switch OFF the instrument (Figure 2–4).

2. Unplug the instrument immediately from the power supply.

3. Carry out appropriate corrective measures. However, do not

disassemble the instrument.

4. If the corrective measures taken do not help, contact authorized

technical service or your local Thermo representative.

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Routine Operation
Emergency situations

62 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Chapter 5
Maintenance
A) Instrument This section describes issues related to maintenance of the instrument.
maintenance
Regular and For reliable daily operation, keep the instrument free of dust and liquid
preventive spills. To prevent unnecessary wear or hazards, follow the routine and
service procedures described below at the frequency with which they
maintenance should be applied.
Clean the outside of the instrument periodically with a cloth dampened
with water or a mild detergent or 70% ethanol when necessary.
Immediately wipe away spilt saline solutions, solvents, acids or alkaline
solutions from outer surfaces to prevent damage.
Abrasive cleaning agents are not recommended, because they are likely
to damage the plastic instrument cover.

Caution The surfaces can be cleaned with most laboratory detergents.

Dilute the cleaning agent as recommended by the manufacturer. Do
not expose the surfaces to concentrated acids or concentrated alcohols
for prolonged periods of time as damage may occur. ▲

It is recommended to service the instrument at least yearly. Refer to

“Service contracts” on page 66.
If you believe that liquid has entered the Multidrop Combi, first switch
the instrument off (Figure 2–4) and unplug the instrument. Carry out
corrective measures. Refer to “Emergency situations” on page 61 and
“Decontamination procedure” on page 64 for aid. If necessary, contact
your local Thermo representative or the Thermo Electron technical
service department. Refer to “Packing for service” on page 66 and
“Service request protocol” on page 100.

Warning If any surfaces are contaminated with biohazardous material,

a mild sterilizing solution should be used. ▲

Caution Do not autoclave any part of this instrument except the

priming vessel and the dispensing cassettes. ▲

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Maintenance
Disposal of materials

Disposal of Follow laboratory and country-specific procedures for biohazardous or

radioactive waste disposal. Refer to local regulations for the disposal of
materials infectious material.

Warning The samples can be potentially infectious. Dispose of all used

dispensing cassettes, plates, strips, priming vessels, disposable gloves,
syringes, disposable tips, and so on as biohazardous waste. ▲

Decontamination Decontamination should be performed in accordance with normal

laboratory procedures. Any decontamination instructions provided with
procedure the reagents used should be followed.
A decontamination procedure is only recommendable when infectious
substances have been in direct contact with any part(s) of the
instrument.
If there is a risk of contamination with biohazardous material, the
procedure recommended below or some other corresponding
decontamination procedure must be performed.
It is strongly recommended to perform the complete decontamination
procedure before relocating the instrument from one laboratory to
another.
Decontamination is not required for the proper functioning of the
instrument.
Example of decontaminants:
● Ethanol 70%
● Virkon solution 1 – 3%
● Glutaraldehyde solution 4%
● Chloramine T
● Microcide SQ 1:64

Caution If local or laboratory regulations prescribe regular

decontamination, it is not advisable to use formaldehyde, since even
small traces of formaldehyde negatively affect the enzyme being used in
EIA tests resulting in bad test results. ▲

Warning The decontamination procedure should be performed by

authorized trained personnel in a well-ventilated room wearing
disposable gloves, protective glasses and clothing. ▲

1. Prepare the decontaminant: for example, 1 – 3% Virkon solution,

or 200 ml 4% glutaraldehyde solution (or another agent
recommended by your safety officer).

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 Maintenance
Decontamination procedure

2. Empty the reagent container. Ensure that you are wearing

disposable gloves.

3. Switch OFF the power (Figure 2–4) and disconnect the mains
supply cable.

4. Disinfect the outside of the instrument using a cloth dampened

with 70% ethanol.

5. Place the dispensing cassette, for example, in 1 – 3% Virkon

solution or 4% glutaraldehyde solution for 10 minutes and rinse it
with deionized distilled aqua.

6. Place the instrument in a large plastic bag.

7. Place a cloth soaked in the prepared solution into the bag. Ensure
that the cloth does not come into contact with the instrument.

8. Close the bag firmly and leave the instrument in the bag for at least
24 hours.

9. Remove the instrument from the bag.

10. Clean the instrument using a mild detergent.

11. Remove any stains using 70% ethanol.

12. Flush the fluid path of the instrument with deionized distilled aqua
using the predispensing procedure.

13. The dispensing cassette must be autoclaved.

14. Wash and disinfect the reagent containers.

15. After performing this decontamination procedure, enclose a signed

and dated Certificate of Decontamination both inside the transport
package and attached to the outside of the package (see Appendix B:
“Certificate of Decontamination”).

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Maintenance
Packing for service

Packing for To pack for service, follow the guidelines presented below.
service
Caution It is important that the instrument is thoroughly
decontaminated before it is removed from the laboratory or any
servicing is performed on it. ▲

When you ship the instrument for service, remember to:

● Inform about the use of hazardous materials.

● Decontaminate the instrument beforehand. Empty the tubings of
the dispenser and remove any loose items from the plate carrier, for
example, plates and priming vessels before decontamination.
● Install the transport lock of the instrument. Refer to “Fastening the
transport lock” on page 22.
● Pack the instrument according to the enclosed packing instructions.
● Use the original packaging to ensure that no damage occurs to the
instrument during shipping. Any damage incurs additional labor
charges.
● Enclose a dated and signed Certificate of Decontamination (see
Appendix B: “Certificate of Decontamination”) both inside and
attached to the outside of the package, in which you return your
instrument (or other items).
● Enclose the return authorization number (RGA) given by your local
Thermo representative.
● Indicate the fault after contacting your local Thermo representative
or the Thermo Electron technical service department.
Refer to “General specifications” on page 89 for details on storage and
transportation temperatures.

Service It is recommended to maintain and service the instrument regularly

every 12 months on a contract basis by the manufacturer's trained
contracts service engineers. This ensures that the product is properly maintained
and gives trouble-free service. Contact the Thermo Electron technical
service department for more details.
Disposal of the If the Multidrop Combi has to be disposed of, follow the guidelines
below.
instrument
Warning Decontaminate the instrument before disposal. Refer to
“Decontamination procedure” on page 64 and “Certificate of
Decontamination” on page 101 about decontamination. ▲

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 Maintenance
B) Dispensing cassette maintenance

Follow laboratory and country-specific procedures for biohazardous or

radioactive waste disposal.
Dispose of the instrument according to the legislation stipulated by the
local authorities concerning take-back of electronic equipment and
waste. The proposals for the procedures vary by country.
Pollution degree 2 (see “Safety specifications” on page 90)
Method of disposal Electronic waste
Contaminated waste
(Infectious waste)

WEEE symbol Thermo Electron has contracted with one or more

recycling/disposal companies in each EU Member State European
Country, and this product should be disposed of or recycled through
them. Further information on Thermo Electron’s compliance with
these Directives, the recyclers in your country, and information on
Thermo Electron products which may assist the detection of substances
subject to the RoHS Directive are available at
www.thermo.com/WEEERoHS. ▲

Regarding the original packaging and packing materials, use the

recycling operators known to you.
For more information, contact your local Thermo representative.
B) Dispensing This section describes issues related to maintenance of the dispensing
cassettes.
cassette
maintenance
Washing the To wash the dispensing cassette, follow these steps:
dispensing cassette
1. Wash the tubes by predispensing them with deionized distilled
aqua. Make sure all the tubes are washed properly.

2. If cleaning with water is insufficient, use a mild laboratory detergent

and then predispense with large amounts of deionized distilled
aqua.

3. Empty the tubings of the dispensing cassette. The dispensing

cassette can be dried at room temperature.

4. After washing, store the dispensing cassette in the rest position

(Figure 4–19).

5. If the instrument is not used for a couple of hours, insert the

dispensing cassette into the rest position (Figure 4–19). Refer to

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Maintenance
B) Dispensing cassette maintenance

“Shutdown” on page 60. Handle the dispensing cassette with great

care so that you do not damage the tubes and dispensing tips. These
factors affect the useful life of the dispensing cassette.

Caution With small tube cassettes, ensure that the liquid or reagent
does not contain any particles > 50 µm and that the liquid container is
covered. Avoid dust or any particles > 50 µm when operating with the
dispensing cassette. ▲

Cleaning the tips The following instructions are valid for the Small tube plastic tip
dispensing cassette and the Standard tube dispensing cassette. If the tip(s)
are clogged, you can first try the following alternative procedures to
remove the blockage.

1. Press the EMPTY button for a few seconds. Then press the PRIME
button for a few seconds.

2. Place a liquid reservoir filled with deionized distilled aqua under the
cassette tips so that the tips are submerged in liquid and press the
EMPTY button.

3. Clean the tips according to the procedure described below (gray

metal tip cassette only). Use the cleaning tool provided.

Note To avoid particles re-entering the reagent, place the tubing end
weight into a separate vessel while you empty the tubing. ▲

Cleaning the metal The following cleaning instructions are only valid for the Small tube
metal tip dispensing cassette.
tips
1. Unfasten the four screws of the cover.

2. Detach the tubing from the tips and remove the tip holder from the
Small tube metal tip dispensing cassette (Cat. no. 24073295).
Avoid touching the inlet of the tip.

3. Fill the 20 ml syringe (provided with the cassette) with deionized

distilled aqua, ethanol or another suitable liquid.

4. Attach the syringe with a round filter unit (provided) and then
attach the pink adapter with the short piece of tubing (provided)
onto the filter unit.

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 Maintenance
Changing the tubing set

5. Press liquid through the syringe to wash out any particles from the
tubing.

6. Attach the short tubing onto the outlet of the tip and press liquid
through the syringe (Figure 5–23).

Figure 5–23. Pressing liquid through the tip

7. To verify the cleaning, remove the tubing from the tip outlet and
attach it to the inlet. Press the liquid through the tip and inspect the
jet coming through the tip outlet with the small orifice.

8. Insert the tubing back onto the tips and place the tip holder back
into the cassette. Ensure that the tubing does not twist. Avoid
touching the tip inlets.

9. Close the cover by fastening the four screws.

Autoclaving the Both small tube cassettes can be autoclaved 10 times and the standard
dispensing cassette tube cassette 50 times depending on the reagent used.
The autoclaving conditions of the dispensing cassettes are as follows:
1 bar pressure at 121°C for 20 minutes.

Warning After autoclaving, the dispensing cassette must cool down at

least 2 hours to room temperature before use. ▲

Changing the With the Standard tube dispensing cassette the tubing set can be changed
according to the instructions below. First the tip band is changed and
tubing set then the new tubing set is fitted.

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Maintenance
Changing the tubing set

Changing the tip 1. Place the dispensing cassette onto the laboratory bench with the
band dispensing tips pointing down.

2. Unfasten the four cover retaining screws of the lower part of the
dispensing cassette (Figure 5–24).

Figure 5–24. Removing the cover plate of the lower part of the dispensing
cassette

3. Remove the tip manifold, the tube fasteners and the rest of the
tubing from the lower part of the dispensing cassette. Then detach
the tip band from the tubing by pulling the tubes away from the tip
band (Figure 5–25).

Figure 5–25. Removing the old tip band

4. Replace the tip band (Figure 5–26). The tips of the tip band must
be clean to function correctly (Figure 5–27).

Figure 5–26. Tip band removed

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 Maintenance
Changing the tubing set

Insert tube here

Tip

Figure 5–27. New tip band

Fitting the new 1. First place the new tubing set onto the laboratory bench with the
tubing set step by tip band attached (Figure 5–28). Ensure that you save the eight
calibration screws and the white Teflon tubing weight from the
step previous tubing set.
Tubing identification plate
with tube lot number

Figure 5–28. New tubing set with the tip band attached

2. Remove the four cover retaining screws on the lower part of the
dispensing cassette; the tubes with the tube fasteners and the tip
manifold with the tips; the three cover retaining screws on the
upper part of the dispensing cassette; the two tension limiting wires;
the calibration screws (Figure 5–43), and the tubes with the tube
fasteners. Save the calibration screws and the white Teflon tubing
weight for installing the new tubing set.

3. Insert the tip manifold so that the tips go through the holes in the
lower part of the dispensing cassette (Figure 5–29). Guide the tubes
through the eight openings in the side wall by pressing the small
cubic tube fasteners into place (Figure 5–30). Ensure that each tube
is in its designated opening (Figure 5–31).

Tube fasteners
Tip band

Figure 5–29. Inserting the tip manifold into the lower part of the dispensing
cassette

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Maintenance
Changing the tubing set

Figure 5–30. Pressing the tube fasteners into place

Figure 5–31. New tubing inserted into the lower part of the dispensing
cassette

4. Attach the tension limiting wires into their slots (Figure 5–32).

Slots for tension

limiting wires

Figure 5–32. Tension limiting wires attached

5. Fasten the four cover retaining screws of the lower part of the
dispensing cassette (Figure 5–33).

Figure 5–33. Replacing the lower part cover of the dispensing cassette

6. Once the lower part of the dispensing cassette has been fitted, place
the remaining parts belonging to the upper part of the dispensing
cassette onto the laboratory bench (Figure 5–34).

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 Maintenance
Changing the tubing set

Figure 5–34. Parts belonging to the upper part of the dispensing cassette

7. Place the plastic sight window with the grooves pointing upwards
onto the bottom cover of the upper part of the dispensing cassette,
if it is not already there (Figure 5–35).

Figure 5–35. Placing the sight window

8. Press the white tubing identification plate into place on the right-
hand side of the bottom cover of the upper part of the dispensing
cassette (Figure 5–36).

Figure 5–36. Pressing the tubing identification plate into place

9. Press each tube fastener into place in its groove on the plastic sight
window (Figure 5–37).

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Maintenance
Changing the tubing set

Figure 5–37. Pressing the tube fasteners into place

10. Fasten the calibration screws from the previous tubing into their
places using a hexagonal screwdriver (Figure 5–38).

Figure 5–38. Fastening the calibration screws

11. Insert the tension limiting wires into their slots into the upper part
of the dispensing cassette (Figure 5–39).

Slots for tension

limiting wires

Figure 5–39. Calibration screws fastened

12. Replace the upper part cover of the dispensing cassette carefully
(Figure 5–40).

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 Maintenance
Changing the tubing set

Figure 5–40. Replacing the cover of the upper part of the dispensing
cassette

13. Ensure that you do not get the tubing trapped or bent between the
bottom and upper cover of the upper part of the dispensing cassette
(Figure 5–41).

Figure 5–41. Ensuring the tubing does not get trapped

14. Fasten the three cover retaining screws of the upper part of the
dispensing cassette, leaving the front screw slightly open
(Figure 5–42).

Figure 5–42. Fastening the cover retaining screws

15. Insert the calibration screw cover easier by lifting or bending the
upper cover slightly (Figure 5–43).

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Maintenance
Changing the tubing set

Figure 5–43. Inserting the cover on the calibration screws

16. Fasten the front cover retaining screw (Figure 5–44).

Figure 5–44. Lower and upper part of the dispensing cassette fitted

17. Turn the dispensing cassette so that the eight sight strips are visible
(Figure 5–45). Look at the eight sight strips in the upper part of the
dispensing cassette. You will notice that the tubes are not
precalibrated. First open the calibration screw cover. For
precalibration of the dispensing cassette, adjust the tube fasteners in
the sight strips roughly to the middle using a hexagonal screwdriver
(Figure 5–46).

Sight strips

Figure 5–45. Dispensing cassette before calibration

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 Maintenance
Changing the tubing set

Figure 5–46. Precalibrating the dispensing cassette

18. When the tube fasteners have all been adjusted roughly to the
middle of the sight strip, close the calibration screw cover
(Figure 5–47).

Figure 5–47. Dispensing cassette precalibrated

19. Insert the eight tubes into the white Teflon tubing weight either at
this stage or earlier (Figure 5–48). The new tubing set has now been
successfully fitted.

Figure 5–48. Inserting the tubes into the white Teflon tubing weight

20. Calibrate the dispensing cassette according to the instructions in

Chapter 6: ”Calibration of the Dispensing Cassette”.

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Maintenance
Disposal of the dispensing cassette

Disposal of the Dispose of the dispensing cassette according to the legislation stipulated
by the local authorities concerning take-back of the above-mentioned
dispensing materials. The proposals for the procedures vary by country.
cassette
Warning The dispensing cassette may contain biohazardous materials
depending on the use of the cassette. It consists of PTFE (Teflon),
silicone, stainless steel, PA (polyamide) and PP (polypropylene). ▲

78 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Chapter 6
Calibration of the Dispensing
Cassette
Verifying and The verification and recalibration instructions cover the following three
sections using the methods mentioned: accuracy verification
recalibrating the (gravimetric); precision verification (photometric), and calibration
dispensing (gravimetric).

cassette
Accuracy The dispensing cassette has been calibrated by the manufacturer with
verification deionized distilled aqua at 22°C ± 2°C. It is recommended to
recalibrate the small tube cassettes after dispensing about 1000 384-well
(gravimetric) plates corresponding to 5 µl/well or after every three months. However,
it is recommended that you check the calibration of the standard tube
cassette after dispensing 3000 to 5000 96-well plates depending on the
reagent used. It is also recommended that you recalibrate the dispensing
cassette if you forget the cassette in the Multidrop Combi under tension
for prolonged periods, for example, a weekend or longer. You should
also check the calibration when liquid types other than water are used.
For accuracy verification, use the example table (Table 6–7) as a model
when you fill out the results in the enclosed empty table (Table 6–8) in
the accuracy verification worksheet.
The volume conversion factor (Z) for water to change the weights into
volumes at different temperatures is presented in Table 6–6.
The gravimetric method of accuracy verification requires you to weigh
each individual strip that contains water to be dispensed from the
Multidrop Combi. The analytical balance that you use should be well
maintained, calibrated with an appropriate set of certified weights, and
capable of reading with a resolution of at least 0.1 mg, preferably
0.01 mg. The gravimetric method also requires a thermometer that
should be calibrated and readable to 0.5°C.
Materials and equipment The following materials and equipment are required for accuracy
needed for accuracy verification:
verification ● Multidrop Combi with the dispensing cassette to be verified
inserted
● Analytical balance (resolution at least 0.1 mg, preferably 0.01 mg)
● Calibrated thermometer (readable to 0.5°C)

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Calibration of the Dispensing Cassette
Verifying and recalibrating the dispensing cassette

● 96-well plate with 8 x 12 well microstrips (e.g., Thermo Microtiter

1 x 12 Strip Assembled, Universal Binding Flat, Cat. no.
95029370) or another similar 8 x 12 strip plate
● Disposable gloves
● High-purity water (deionized distilled aqua)
● Photocopy of the accuracy verification worksheet from this manual
(p. 81)

Accuracy verification 1. Install the dispensing cassette (see “Installing the cassette” on page
procedure 27).

2. Pull the rotor cover over the rotor.

3. Ensure that the priming vessel is installed.

4. Set the Multidrop Combi parameters as follows (see “Dispensing

parameters” on page 37):
Plate type: 96 standard (15mm)
Dispensing volume and cassette:
10 µl (small tube cassette)/100 µl (standard tube cassette)
Selected columns: 1-10

5. Mark and weigh each strip separately beforehand (Tare column).

Use disposable gloves when handling and weighing the strips. See
Table 6–8.

6. Place the 96-well plate with the 8 x 12 well microstrips into the
plate carrier of the Multidrop Combi.

7. Use high-purity water. Press the PRIME button until all eight
channels are dispensing continuously into the priming vessel.

8. Press the START button to start the first dispensing. Wait until all
10 columns have been dispensed. Repeat this step until dispensing
has taken place 5 times in all with the small tube cassette (final
volume per well ~ 50 µl) or once with the standard tube cassette
(final volume per well ~ 100 µl).

9. Weigh each dispensed strip (Gross column) immediately after

dispensing to avoid evaporation. The water that you use in the
gravimetric method may be subject to evaporation depending on
the environmental conditions during accuracy verification. See
Table 6–6.

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 Calibration of the Dispensing Cassette
Verifying and recalibrating the dispensing cassette

10. Calculate the net weights of the dispensed strips (Net column), the
dispensed volume per well in mg (Dispensed weight per well (mg)
column), the dispensed volume per well in µl (Measured volume
(µl) column), and the inaccuracy percentage (Inaccuracy % column)
as in the example table. See Table 6–7. If desired, you can also
calculate the average dispensed volume and inaccuracy percentage
for the whole plate.

11. Depending on the results obtained, perform the calibration

described below (“Precision verification (photometric)” on
page 83). Refer to Chapter 7: ”Technical Specifications”.

Accuracy verification Date:

worksheet Temperature:
Dispensing cassette sn:

Table 6–6. Volume conversion factor

Water volume conversion factor (Z) with pressure of 1013 mbar
Water temperature °C Conversion factor
16.0 1.0021
18.0 1.0025
20.0 1.0029
22.0 1.0033
24.0 1.0038
26.0 1.0043
28.0 1.0048

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Calibration of the Dispensing Cassette
Verifying and recalibrating the dispensing cassette

Table 6–7. Example of an accuracy verification measured with a small tube

cassette at 22°C
Channel/ Strip weight (g) Dispensed weight Measured volume Inaccuracy %
Strip per well (mg) (µl)
Tare Gross Net Strip Net x 1000 Weight per well x (Measured
10 x 5 conversion factor (Z) volume – Set
volume) x 100 /
Set volume
A 3.8707 4.4910 0.6203 10.3383 10.3724 3.72
B 3.8699 4.4859 0.6160 10.2667 10.3006 3.01
C 3.8623 4.4778 0.6155 10.2583 10.2922 2.92
D 3.8643 4.4981 0.6338 10.5633 10.5982 5.98
E 3.8635 4.4890 0.6255 10.4250 10.4594 4.59
F 3.8717 4.4950 0.6233 10.3883 10.4226 4.23
G 3.8718 4.4889 0.6171 10.2850 10.3189 3.19
H 3.8722 4.5022 0.6300 10.5000 10.5347 5.35
Mean (whole plate)/Average of channels A – H 10.4124 4.12

Table 6–8. Accuracy verification results

Channel/ Strip weight (g) Dispensed weight Measured volume Inaccuracy %
Strip per well (mg) (µl)
Tare Gross Net Strip Net x 1000 Weight per well x (Measured
10 x 5 (small conversion factor (Z) volume – Set
cassette)/10 x 1 volume) x 100 /
(standard cassette) Set volume
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
Mean (whole plate)/Average of channels A – H

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 Calibration of the Dispensing Cassette
Verifying and recalibrating the dispensing cassette

Precision This section describes the materials and steps needed for precision
verification verification.
(photometric)
Materials and equipment The following materials and equipment are required for precision
required for precision verification:
verification
● Microplate photometer set to measure absorbance at 540 nm
(measurement range 0 – 2 Abs, resolution 0.001 Abs)
● Two 96-well plates, e.g., Thermo Microtiter Assembly Strip 1 x 8
(Cat. no. 95029350) or Thermo Microtiter Microplate
(Cat. no. 9502227)
● Ponceau S reagent (BDH product # 341362T or equivalent); you
will need 0.4% and 0.08% (small tube cassette)/0.004% and
0.008% (standard tube cassette) stock solutions (absorbance
approximately 1 at 540 nm) (see Table 6–9). Use filtered and
preferably fresh reagent.

Note With small tube cassettes, ensure that the dispensed liquid does
not contain particles > 50 µm. ▲

● A 0.02% v/v solution of Tween (Fluka or equivalent) in deionized

distilled aqua
Precision verification Perform the following procedure at two test volumes of 2 µl and
procedure 10 µl (small tube cassette)/20 µl and 100 µl (standard tube cassette)
(Table 6–9).
Table 6–9. Precision verification procedure data
Cassette type Ponceau S Ponceau S stock Tween (0.02% v/v)
stock solution solution Volume dispensed
concentration Volume dispensed per well
(w/v) per well
Small tube cassette 0.4% 2 µl 200 µl
0.08% 10 µl 190 µl
Standard tube cassette 0.04% 20 µl 180 µl
0.008% 100 µl 100 µl

1. Install the dispensing cassette into the working position so that the
lower and upper parts of the dispensing cassette are inserted into
their slots.

2. Pull the rotor cover over the rotor.

3. Ensure that the priming vessel is installed.

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Calibration of the Dispensing Cassette
Verifying and recalibrating the dispensing cassette

4. Set the Multidrop Combi to deliver Ponceau S solution by inserting

all eight channel tubes into the first Ponceau S stock solution vessel
of the two.

5. Set the Multidrop Combi to dispense the first Ponceau S volume.

Select the 96 standard (15mm) plate.

6. Press the PRIME button to predispense the tubes.

7. Insert the first empty, 96-well plate (Microplate A) into the plate
carrier. Dispense the first volume into each well of the plate.

8. Empty the tubing of the first stock solution and insert all eight
channel tubes into the second Ponceau S stock solution vessel.

9. Set the Multidrop Combi to dispense the second Ponceau S

volume. Press the PRIME button to predispense the tubes. Insert the
second empty, 96-well plate (Microplate B) into the plate carrier.
Dispense the second volume into each well of the plate
(Table 6–10).

10. Predispense the Multidrop Combi with Tween (0.02% v/v).

Dispense the Tween solution into each well of both microplates.
Use the Low dispensing speed in this step to reduce foaming.
Dispense the appropriate volume according to Table 6–9. Note that
the maximum volume with the small tube cassette is 50 µl. You
must dispense appropriate aliquots several times. If you use the
standard tube cassette, you can dispense the whole volume in one
go.

11. Shake the plate 15 seconds before measurement in the microplate

reader or Multidrop Combi. Measure Abstest, the absorbance of each
well at 540 nm, in both microplates using a microplate photometer
with a measurement range of 0 to 2 Abs and a resolution of
0.001 Abs. Attach a table of the Abstest values to Table 6–10.

12. Calculate the average absorbance for each of the two microplates:
Absmean = mean absorbance of each well = ∑ Abstest ÷ 96

13. Record the value of Absmean for each of the two microplates in
Table 6–10.

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 Calibration of the Dispensing Cassette
Verifying and recalibrating the dispensing cassette

14. Calculate the standard deviation results obtained for each

microplate by using the following equation, or the STDEVP
function in MS Excel or the σ function in a scientific calculator,
and record the results in Table 6–10.
Standard Deviation= √ (( ∑ (Abstest - Absmean )2 / 96 )

15. Calculate the coefficient of variation, CV%, for the Standard

Deviation obtained for each microplate, and record the results in
Table 6–10. Compare the CV% values to the criteria in Table 6–9.
CV% = (Standard Deviation Abstest / Absmean) x 100
Table 6–10. Photometric test data
Microplate A: Volume 1 Microplate B: Volume 2
Set dispense volume: µl µl
Mean absorbance / well (Absmean):
Standard Deviation (SD) of Abstest values:
CV% = (SD Abstest / Absmean) x 100:

Calibration If necessary, calibration is carried out after performing the accuracy

(gravimetric) verification described above.

Note It is recommended to let the dispensing cassette rest for a

minimum of 10 hours before recalibration depending on the reagent
used. ▲

Note It is recommended to check the small tube cassette calibration

after a volume corresponding to 5 µl/well is dispensed into 1000 384-
well plates. With the standard tube cassette, it is recommended that you
check the calibration after dispensing 3000 to 5000 96-well plates
depending on the reagent used. ▲

Material and equipment The following materials and equipment are required for calibration:
required for calibration
● Multidrop Combi with the dispensing cassette to be verified
inserted
● Analytical balance (resolution at least 0.1 mg, preferably 0.01 mg)
● Calibrated thermometer (readable to 0.5°C)
● 96-well plate with 8 x 12 well microstrips (e.g., Thermo Microtiter
1 x 12 Strip Assembled, Universal Binding Flat, Cat. no.
95029370) or another similar 8 x 12 strip plate
● Disposable gloves

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Calibration of the Dispensing Cassette
Verifying and recalibrating the dispensing cassette

● High-purity water (deionized distilled aqua)

Calibration procedure 1. Install the dispensing cassette into the working position so that the
lower and upper parts of the dispensing cassette are inserted into
their slots (Figure 4–14).

2. Pull the rotor cover over the rotor.

3. Ensure that the priming vessel is installed.

4. Set the Multidrop Combi parameters as follows (see “Dispensing

parameters” on page 37):
Plate type: 96 standard (15mm)
Dispensing volume and cassette:
10 µl (small tube cassette)/100 µl (standard tube cassette)
Selected columns: 1-10

5. Open the calibration screw cover (Figure 6–50) on the upper part
of the cassette.

6. Use high-purity water. Place the tube of channel A (Figure 11–52)

into the reservoir with water at room temperature (working
temperature).

Figure 6–49. 8 x 12 well microstrips adjusted onto the plate adapter

7. Press the PRIME button until the channel is dispensing continuously

into the priming vessel.

8. Tare an analytical balance to 0 with one empty, dry 1 x 12 well

microstrip. Use disposable gloves when handling and weighing the
strips.

86 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Calibration of the Dispensing Cassette
Verifying and recalibrating the dispensing cassette

9. Place the microstrip into the microplate frame on the row

corresponding to the channel to be recalibrated (from A to H).

10. Press the START button to start dispensing.

11. Weigh the filled microstrip (Figure 6–50). The balance should now
read 100 mg ± 5 mg (small tube cassette)/1000 mg ± 20 mg
(standard tube cassette).

Figure 6–50. Removing the filled microstrip to be weighed

12. If the balance reads < 100 mg (small tube cassette)/< 1000 mg
(standard tube cassette), turn the calibration screw
counterclockwise, one turn corresponding to approximately 1 µl
(small tube cassette)/10 µl (standard tube cassette). If the balance
reads > 100 mg, turn in the opposite direction (Figure 6–51).
Recheck the delivery after each adjustment using steps 8 to 10.
Three acceptable calibrations must be obtained.

Figure 6–51. Screwing a calibration screw according to the calibration

results

13. Continue in the same way with each channel until all eight channels
have been recalibrated and close the calibration screw cover.

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 87

Calibration of the Dispensing Cassette
Verifying and recalibrating the dispensing cassette

88 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Chapter 7
Technical Specifications
General Thermo Electron reserves the right to change any specifications without
prior notice as part of our continuous product development program.
specifications
Table 7–11. Technical specifications
Technical specifications
Overall dimensions 355 mm (14 in.) (W) x 330 mm (12.9 in.) (D) x 220 mm (8.6 in.) (H)
Weight (total) Instrument Dispensing cassette
9.1 kg (15.7 lbs.) 128 g (0.3 lb.)
Mains power supply 100 – 240 Vac, 50/60 Hz, nominal (operating range 90 – 256 Vac)
Power consumption 100 VA max.
Fuses none
Operating conditions +10°C to +40°C (tested according to IEC 60068-2-1, test Ab, cold,
(indoor use) IEC 60068-2-2, test Bb, dry heat and IEC 60068-2-3, test Ca, RH
80%, damp heat, steady state)
Transportation -40°C to +70°C (tested according to IEC 60068-2-1, test Ab, cold
conditions test and IEC 60068-2-2, test Bb, dry heat), packed in transport
packaging
Storage conditions -25°C to +50°C, packed in transport packaging
Autoclaving pressure: 1 bar
conditions of the temperature: 121°C
dispensing cassette
time: 20 min
and priming vessel
autoclavings: 10 times (small tube cassettes)/
50 times (standard tube cassette)
Control panel Keys: arrow keys, OK, START, STOP, PRIME, EMPTY, SHAKE
Interface Serial RS-232C, USB 1.1 (2.0 compatible)
Small tube dispensing cassette
Dispensing volume 0.5 – 50 µl, in 0.5 µl increments
Dispensing speed 5 s/ 1 µl into 384 wells
8 s/ 5 µl into 384 wells
12 s/ 10 µl into 384 wells
20 s/ 20 µl into 384 wells
44 s/ 150 µl into 384 wells

14 s/ 1 µl into 1536 wells

26 s/ 5 µl into 1536 wells

Continued

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 89

Technical Specifications
Safety specifications
Cont.

Technical specifications
Dispensing accuracy * 2 µl: ± 10% (typical)
10 µl: ± 5% (typical)
> 10 µl: ± 5% (typical)
Dispensing precision 2 µl: CV ≤ 5%
* 10 µl: CV ≤ 3%
> 10 µl: CV ≤ 3%
Standard tube dispensing cassette
Dispensing volume 5 – 2500 µl, in 5 µl increments
Dispensing speed 3 s/ 10 µl into 96 wells 5 s/ 5 µl into 384 wells
4 s/ 20 µl into 96 wells 6 s/ 10 µl into 384 wells
10 s/ 100 µl into 96 wells 9 s/ 20 µl into 384 wells
20 s/ 300 µl into 96 wells
Dispensing accuracy * 5 µl: ± 3% (typical)
20 µl: ± 2% (typical)
100 µl: ± 1% (typical)
> 10 µl: ± 1% (typical)
Dispensing precision * 5 µl: CV ≤ 10%
20 µl: CV ≤ 1.5%
100 µl: CV ≤ 1%
> 10 µl: CV ≤ 1%

* Dispensing accuracy and precision are valid at 22°C ± 2°C with deionized distilled aqua.

Safety This section describes the safety specifications for the Multidrop Combi
instrument.
specifications
Live parts The instrument is safe to operate with the covers fitted and these must
not be removed during operation. The covers protect the user from live
parts and they should only be removed after switching the instrument
off and disconnecting the mains supply cable, and only by suitably
qualified maintenance and repair personnel.

Warning The instrument uses voltages dangerous for human beings.

Before removing any covers, disconnect the instrument from the power
supply. ▲

In conformity The Multidrop Combi bears the following markings:

with the Type 836

100 – 240 Vac, 50/60 Hz, 100 VA
requirements
CE

90 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Technical Specifications
In conformity with the requirements

The Multidrop Combi conforms to the following requirements:

73/23/EEC (Low Voltage Directive)
89/336/EEC (Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive EMC)
FCC Part 15, Subpart B/Class B (July 2004)
2002/96/EEC (Waste of Electrical and Electronic Equipment)

Safety performance:
EN 61010-1:2001 (Ed. 2)
taking into account US and CA National differences
- Measurement Category (Overvoltage Category) II; Pollution Degree 2

The safety specifications are also met under the following environmental
conditions in addition to or in excess of those stated in the operating conditions:
Altitude up to 2000 m
Temperature +5°C to +40°C
Humidity maximum relative humidity 80% for temperatures up to
31°C decreasing linearly to 50% relative humidity at 40°C
Mains supply fluctuations ± 10% from nominal

EMC performance:
EN 61000-6-3:2001 Generic standards –
Emission standard for residential, commercial and light-
industrial environments
EN 61000-6-1:2001 Generic standards –
Immunity standard for residential, commercial and light-
industrial environments
EN 61326-1:1997 + A1:1998 Product family standard
+ A2:2001 + A3:2003

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 91

Technical Specifications
Remote control to Multidrop Combi

Test standards Performance limits

EN 55022:1998 + A1:2000 + A2:2003 Class B, 150 kHz – 1 GHz
EN 61000-3-2:2000 Class A
EN 61000-3-3:1995 + A1:2001

ANSI C63.4:2003 Class B, 150 kHz – 30 MHz; 30 MHz – 1 GHz

EN 61000-4-2:1995 + A1:1998 + A2:2001 4 kV CD, 8 kV AD, Criteria B

EN 61000-4-3:2002 + A1:2002 3 V/m, 80 MHz – 2 GHz, Criteria A
EN 61000-4-4:2004 1 kV, Criteria B
EN 61000-4-5:1995 + A1:2001 2 kV line to ground, 1 kV line to line, Criteria B
EN 61000-4-6:1996 + A1:2001 3 Vrms, 150 kHz – 80 MHz, Criteria A
EN 61000-4-8:1993 + A1:2001 30 A/m, Criteria A
EN 61000-4-11:1994 + A1:2001 30%/10 ms, Criteria B
60%/100 ms, Criteria B
100%/10 ms, Criteria B
100%/5 s, Criteria C

Remote control The Multidrop Combi can be used as part of a robot system.
to Multidrop When the Multidrop Combi is in remote mode, the main view is as
shown below. For more details, refer to the Multidrop Combi Remote
Combi Control Command Sets (Cat. no. D04640) document. Contact your
distributor or local Thermo representative to obtain the said document.

The instrument has two alternative computer interfaces: RS232 and

USB.

Note It is recommended to use USB to improve the reliability of traffic

in robot applications. ▲
The interface to use is selected from the Multidrop Combi user
interface.

92 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Chapter 8
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can the dispensing cassettes of the Multidrop Combi be used in the
Multidrop 384 and Multidrop DW?
A1: Yes, the dispensing cassettes are interchangeable. The standard tube
cassette (Cat. no. 24072670) can be used in the Multidrop 384 and
Multidrop DW. The small tube cassettes (Cat. no. 2407390 and
2407395) can be used in the Multidrop Micro.

Q2: Can the Dispensing cassette, machined covers (Cat. no. 24070300) be
used in the Multidrop Combi?
A2: No, it cannot be used.

Q3: How many times can the Multidrop Combi dispensing cassettes be
autoclaved?
A3: Either 10 times (small tube cassettes, Cat. no. 2407390 and
2407395) or 50 times (standard tube cassette, Cat. no. 24072670).

Q4: What are the autoclaving conditions for the dispensing cassettes?
A4: The autoclaving conditions are as follows: 1 bar pressure at 121°C
for 20 minutes.

Q5: What is the dead volume of the dispensing cassettes of the Multidrop
Combi with 40 cm tubing?
A5: The dead volume is about 1.0 ml with the small tube cassettes.
However, the dead volume is < 7 ml for the standard tube cassette.

Q6: Does the dispensing cassette of the Multidrop Combi include a

calibration certificate?
A6: Yes, all dispensing cassettes include a factory calibration report.

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 93

Frequently Asked Questions

Q7: What liquid is recommended to be used for washing the Multidrop

Combi tubes?
A7: It is recommended that you use deionized distilled aqua and/or
detergent solutions, e.g., 0.2 – 1% Tween followed by deionized
distilled aqua.

Q8: When do you have to calibrate the dispensing cassettes of the Multidrop
Combi?
A8: It is recommended that you check the calibration of the small tube
cassettes after dispensing a volume corresponding to 5 µl/well into as
many as 1000 384-well plates or less depending on the reagent used.
On the other hand, it is recommended that you check the calibration of
the standard tube cassette after dispensing 3000 to 5000 96-well plates
depending on the reagent used.

Q9: Can the dispensing cassettes of the Multidrop Combi be recalibrated?

A9: Yes, they can.

Q10: What is the tip inner diameter of the dispensing cassettes of the
Multidrop Combi?
A10: The tip inner diameter is either 0.22 mm (Small tube plastic tip
dispensing cassette, Cat. no. 24073290, and Small tube metal tip
dispensing cassette, Cat. no. 24073295), or 0.5 mm (Standard tube
dispensing cassette, Cat. no. 24072670).

Q11: Do particles in the reagent affect dispensing?

A11: Possibly. It is recommended that you ensure that there are no
particles > 50 µm in the reagent to avoid blockage of the tips, especially
when working with small tube cassettes.

Q12: What materials come into contact with liquids to be dispensed?

A12: The Small tube plastic tip dispensing cassette, Cat. no. 24073290,
and the Standard tube dispensing cassette, Cat. no. 24072670, are
made of: PTFE (Teflon), silicone, and PP (polypropylene).
The Small tube metal tip dispensing cassette, Cat. no. 24073295, is
made of: PTFE (Teflon), silicone, ruby, and stainless steel.

94 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Frequently Asked Questions

Q13: What should you do if the liquid foams during dispensing?

A13: Some liquids foam more easily than others. One option is to
reduce the pump rotor speed. There are three dispensing speeds
available: High, Med (medium) and Low.

Q14: Do you need specific plate adapters for the Multidrop Combi?
A14: No, the Multidrop Combi has a fixed plate adapter and does not
use any external plate adapters.

Q15: What is the material of the Multidrop Combi priming vessel?

A15: The Multidrop Combi priming vessel (Cat. no. N05640) is made
of green polypropylene (PP).

Q16: Can the Multidrop Combi priming vessel be autoclaved?

A16: Yes, it can be autoclaved.

Q17: Where can you see the Multidrop Combi internal software version
number?
A17: When the instrument is powered on, the version number only
appears on the bottom of the screen during the startup animation.

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 95

Frequently Asked Questions

96 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Chapter 9
Troubleshooting Guide
Note Do not use the instrument if it appears that it does not function
properly. ▲

Error and When an error is detected, the current operation is terminated. After an
error, it is best to abort the current run and restart from the beginning
warning codes after the problem is fixed. The Multidrop Combi internal software has
the following error messages (Table 9–12).
Table 9–12. Error messages reported
Code Error Cause Action
4 Pump position error. Peristaltic pump cannot rotate Power off/on (or contact service).
5 Plate X position error. Plate carrier cannot move Power off/on (or contact service).
6 Plate Y position error. Plate carrier cannot move Power off/on (or contact service).
7 Z position error. Pump lifting mechanism cannot move Power off/on (or contact service).
11 No more memory for Too many protocols saved Delete protocols that are not used.
storing user data.
14 Cannot dispense when Predispensing undone Press the PRIME button.
pump not primed.
15 Missing prime vessel. Priming vessel missing Insert the priming vessel.
16 Rotor shield not in Rotor cover not in place Pull the rotor cover over the pump.
place.

Examples of a few error messages that appear in the Multidrop Combi

internal software are shown below.

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 97

Troubleshooting Guide
Error and warning codes

Press OK to acknowledge the error and then press PRIME.

Press OK to acknowledge the error and then insert the priming vessel.

Press OK to acknowledge the error and then pull the rotor cover over
the rotor.

98 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Troubleshooting Guide
Hazards

An example of a warning message that appears in the main view of the

Multidrop Combi internal software is shown below.

Press OK to acknowledge the warning and then reselect the dispensing

volume.

Hazards This instrument is designed to provide full user protection. When

correctly installed, operated and maintained, the instrument will
present no hazards to the user.
The following recommendations are given to ascertain added user
safety.
Electrical Ensure that the mains supply cable supplied with the unit is always
used.
The mains plug should only be inserted into a socket outlet provided
with a protective ground contact.

Warning There are no user-replaceable parts inside the instrument.

The user should not remove the cover from the Multidrop Combi. ▲

The same precautions applicable when using any electrical equipment

should be observed with this instrument. Do not touch switches or
electrical outlets with wet hands. Switch the instrument off before
disconnecting it from the mains supply.
Mechanical The dispensing cassette is a free-moving mechanical device controlled
by the instrument and not directly by the operator. It is designed for
“hands-off” operation and should be used as such. Never reach into the
work space, while the instrument is performing a dispensing cycle. If it
is necessary to stop the operation of the equipment, press the STOP
button on the control panel.

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 99

Troubleshooting Guide
Service request protocol

Environmental Infectious samples and corrosive fluids are commonly used with this
equipment. The “hands-off” nature of the system allows the user to
dispense into the reaction wells without getting into direct contact with
these fluids. However, the wells that have been in contact with
potentially hazardous fluids must be handled with utmost care. Always
wear hand and eye protections as well as corrosive resistant laboratory
coats.

Warning Observe normal laboratory procedures for handling

potentially hazardous samples. ▲

Defects and Whenever it is likely that the protection against safety hazards has been
abnormal stresses impaired, make the instrument inoperative and secure against any
unintended operation.
The protection is likely to be impaired if, for example, the instrument:
● Shows visible damage.
● Fails to perform the intended functions.
● Has been subjected to prolonged storage under unfavorable
conditions.
● Has been subjected to severe transport stresses.
Service request If the Multidrop Combi requires service, contact your local Thermo
representative or the Thermo Electron technical service department. Do
protocol not under any circumstances send the instrument for service without
any prior contact. It is imperative to indicate the fault and nature of the
required service. This will ensure a faster return of the instrument to the
customer.
Your local Thermo representative or distributor will take care of
sending a complaint form (that is, the Warranty Claim Technical
Sheet) to the Thermo Electron technical service department. The
Warranty Claim Technical Sheet contains a more detailed description
of the fault, symptom or condition. Give all the necessary information
to the distributor, who will fill out and forward the Warranty Claim
Technical Sheet to the Thermo Electron technical service department.
Check “Packing for service” on page 66. You will find instructions on
how to proceed before shipping the instrument for service to Thermo
Electron Oy.

100 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Troubleshooting Guide
Certificate of Decontamination

Check that any necessary decontamination procedure has been carried

out before packing. Refer to “Decontamination procedure” on page 64
and “Certificate of Decontamination” on page 101. Ensure that the
Certificate of Decontamination (see Appendix B: “Certificate of
Decontamination”) as well as the return authorization number (RGA)
are sent with the instrument.
The Thermo Electron technical service department will keep you up to
date with the progress of service and provide you with any further
details you might need, for example, on maintenance, serviceability,
troubleshooting and replacement.
Certificate of The decontamination procedure is required before shipping the
instrument to Thermo Electron Oy, for example, for repair. If, for any
Decontamination reason, the instrument is shipped back to Thermo Electron Oy, it must
be accompanied by a dated and signed Certificate of Decontamination,
which must be attached to the outside of the package containing the
instrument. Refer to Appendix B: “Certificate of Decontamination”
and “Decontamination procedure” on page 64.
Failure to confirm decontamination will incur additional labor charges
or at worst the items will be returned for proper cleaning. Before
returning any instrument(s) or item(s), ensure that they are fully
decontaminated. Confirm A or B status. Refer to Appendix B:
“Certificate of Decontamination”.

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 101

Troubleshooting Guide
Certificate of Decontamination

102 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Chapter 10
Ordering Information
Contact your local Thermo representative for ordering and service
information.
Multidrop Combi Table 10–13. Instrument catalog number
Code Instrument / System
5840300 Multidrop Combi, 100 − 240 V, 50/60 Hz

Dispensing Table 10–14. Codes for dispensing cassettes

cassettes Code Item
24073290 Small tube plastic tip dispensing cassette
24073295 Small tube metal tip dispensing cassette
24072670 Standard tube dispensing cassette
24072677 Long standard tube dispensing cassette (length of tubing 50-200 cm in
10 cm increments)

List of Table 10–15. Codes for accessories

accessories Code Item
N05616 Multidrop Combi User Manual
N05640 Priming vessel, Multidrop Combi
N05843 Priming vessel tube assembly and cap
1210550 Cord Mains EURO
1210520 Cord Mains UL/CSA
2305290 Serial cable F9/F25
N04001 USB A-B device cable *
030003 Tool 3mm DIN911 Allen key Handled
95029370 Combiplate 1x12
95040000 Cliniplate 384 (5 pcs)

* not included

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 103

Ordering Information
List of plates

List of plates Table 10–16. Codes for plates

Code Item Quantity
96-well microplates
3355 Immulon 1B Plate, Flat bottom 50 pcs/box
9502227 96 Well Plate UB, Flat bottom 50 pcs/box
7571 Microlite 1 + Plate, Flat bottom 50 pcs/box
9502887 White 96 Well Plate UB, Flat bottom 50 pcs/box
7605 Microfluor 1 Black Plate, Flat bottom 50 pcs/box
9502867 Black 96 Well Plate UB, Flat bottom 50 pcs/box
95029370 Microtiter Strip 1 x 12 Assembled (in a 50 pcs/box
microplate frame)
95040450 Microtiter 96 Deep Well Plate 50 pcs/box
384-well microplates
95040000 384 Round Well Plate 50 pcs/box
95040020 White 384 Round Well Plate 50 pcs/box

104 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Chapter 11
References
Literature Editorial (2004): Multidrop bulk reagent dispenser family from
Thermo Electron; precise dispensing in the microliter area allowing
assay miniaturization. Innovations in Pharmaceutical Technology 4 (14),
36.
Falconer M. et al. (2002): High-Throughput Screening for Ion
Channel Modulators. Journal of Biomolecular Screening 7 (5), 460 –
465.
Kiger A. A. et al. (2003): A functional genomic analysis of cell
morphology using RNA interference. Journal of Biology 2, 27.
Tanaka M. et al. (2005): An unbiased cell morphology-based screen for
new, biologically active small molecules. PLoS Biology 3 (5), e128.
Yarrow J. C. et al. (2004): A high-throughput cell migration assay using
scratch wound healing, a comparison of image-based readout methods.
BMC Biotechnology 4, 21.

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 105

References

106 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Appendix A
6 – 48-Well Plate Dispensing
Instructions
To dispense into a 6-, 12-, 24-, or 48-well plate, leave some of the
channels empty of liquid and select only some of the columns.

1. Insert the correct dispensing cassette and the priming vessel. Close the
rotor cover.

2. Make sure you are in the Main menu.

3. Select 96 as the plate type and insert the 6-, 12-, 24-, or 48-well plate.

4. Remove the tubes for the channels you leave empty from the tubing
weight manually. Keep the removed tubes outside the reagent bottle
while dispensing.
For information about the channel settings (Figure 11–52), see the
following sections below.

5. First select the cassette type and then the dispensing volume.

6. Select the columns. For information about the column settings, see the
following sections below.

7. Keep the PRIME button down until the tubings are completely filled.

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 107

6 – 48-Well Plate Dispensing Instructions

8. Press the START button to start the protocol. The instrument dispenses
the plate.

9. Press the EMPTY button to empty the dispensing tubing.

10. During prolonged standby, keep the cassette in its rest position.
Remove the cassette when the maximum amount of plates are dispensed
or you want to change the cassette type in use.

11. Power OFF the instrument.

Figure 11–52. Tube order in the dispensing cassette

108 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 6 – 48-Well Plate Dispensing Instructions

6-well plate
settings

Figure A–53. Columns and channels for a 6-well plate setup

Table A–17. Channel and column settings for a 6-well plate
Dispensing cassette: Multidrop Combi:
Channel settings Column settings
Channel Tube in tubing weight Column Selection
A removed 1 unselected
B in place 2 selected
C removed 3 unselected
D removed 4 unselected
E removed 5 unselected
F in place 6 selected
G removed 7 unselected
H removed 8 unselected
9 unselected
10 unselected
11 selected
12 unselected

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 109

6 – 48-Well Plate Dispensing Instructions

12-well plate
settings

Figure A–54. Columns and channels for a 12-well plate setup

Table A–18. Channel and column settings for a 12-well plate
Dispensing cassette: Multidrop Combi:
Channel settings Column settings
Channel Tube in tubing weight Column Selection
A removed 1 unselected
B in place 2 selected
C removed 3 unselected
D in place 4 unselected
E removed 5 selected
F removed 6 unselected
G in place 7 unselected
H removed 8 selected
9 unselected
10 unselected
11 selected
12 unselected

110 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 6 – 48-Well Plate Dispensing Instructions

24-well plate
settings

Figure A–55. Columns and channels for a 24-well plate setup

Table A–19. Channel and column settings for a 24-well plate
Dispensing cassette: Multidrop Combi:
Channel settings Column settings
Channel Tube in tubing weight Column Selection
A in place 1 selected
B removed 2 unselected
C in place 3 selected
D removed 4 unselected
E removed 5 selected
F in place 6 unselected
G removed 7 unselected
H in place 8 selected
9 unselected
10 selected
11 unselected
12 selected

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 111

6 – 48-Well Plate Dispensing Instructions

48-well plate
settings

Figure A–56. Columns and channels for a 48-well plate setup

Table A–20. Channel and column settings for a 48-well plate
Dispensing cassette: Multidrop Combi:
Channel settings Column settings
Channel Tube in tubing weight Column Selection
A in place 1 selected
B in place 2 unselected
C removed 3 selected
D in place 4 selected
E in place 5 unselected
F removed 6 selected
G in place 7 selected
H in place 8 unselected
9 selected
10 selected
11 unselected
12 selected

112 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Appendix B
Certificate of Decontamination

Name:
Address:
Tel./Fax:
Name: Serial no.:
A) I confirm that the returned items have not been contaminated by body fluids, toxic,
carcinogenic or radioactive materials or any other hazardous materials.
B) I confirm that the returned items have been decontaminated and can be handled without
exposing the personnel to health hazards.
Materials used in the unit: Chemicals + Biological • Radioactive *)

Specific information about contaminants:

Decontamination procedure1:

Date and place:

Signature:
Name (block capitals):
*) The signature of a Radiation Safety Officer is also required when the unit has been used with
radioactive materials.
This unit is certified by the undersigned to be free of radioactive contamination.

Date and place:

Signature:
Name (block capitals):

PHOTOCOPIABLE

1
Please include decontaminating solution used.

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 113

Certificate of Decontamination

114 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

 Appendix C
Multidrop Combi Feedback Form
Instrument: Multidrop Combi ̊ Instrument serial no.:

PURCHASED BY PURCHASED FROM

Company/Institute Distributor

Department Address
Address

Tel. Tel.
Fax Date of delivery
Internet home page
Date of purchase
Your application area
Dr. ̊ Mr. ̊ Mrs. ̊ Ms. ̊ Job title/Position
Surname (block capitals) First name (block capitals)

Internet e-mail address

Excellent Above expectations As expected Below expectations Comments
Instrument installation ̊ ̊ ̊ ̊
Ease of use ̊ ̊ ̊ ̊
Flexibility ̊ ̊ ̊ ̊
User manual ̊ ̊ ̊ ̊
Software ̊ ̊ ̊ ̊
Customer support ̊ ̊ ̊ ̊
Overall ̊ ̊ ̊ ̊

Additional instrument and/or software features desired:

Did you encounter any problems?

Where did you first learn about the product?

Would you like to receive information about other Thermo products?

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 115

Multidrop Combi Feedback Form

116 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

Glossary
backflush (empty) The operation of discharging predispense The operation of filling a pump
the contents of the tubing of fluid. intake with fluid to expel the air.
calibration screw The eight screws under the predispensing (priming) Completely filling the
calibration screw cover that will adjust the dispenser tubing with bubble-free fluid to allow
length of the tube during calibration of the sustained, reproducible dispensing action. The
dispensing cassette (Figure 6–51). air in an unpredispensed line acts as a spring,
CE Marking "Conformité Européene" = adversely affecting accuracy and precision.
European Conformity. CE Marking on a remote control Running mode allowing a remote
product is a manufacturer's declaration that the computer to operate the dispenser.
product complies with the essential tension limiting wires The tension limiting wires
requirements of the relevant European health, (Figure 4–10 and Figure 5–32) are designed to
safety and environmental protection legislations, prevent the user from pulling the tubes too
the product may be legally placed on the market much as excessive tension may damage the tubes
and thus the CE Marking ensures the free or change the calibration of the dispensing
movement of the product within EU. cassette.
decontamination Removal or neutralization of USB Universal serial bus.
radiologic, bacteriological, chemical or other
contamination.
dispense To distribute (pipette) liquid into the
wells of the preselected strips or microplate.
dispensing cassette The dispensing cassette
contains eight individual tubes. The dispensing
cassette is detachable and disposable.
dispensing height The tip position on top of the
microplate. The distance between the bottom
surface of the plate carrier to the tip of the
dispensing tip (Table 4–3).
EIA Enzyme immunoassay.
emulation mode Running mode imitating the
function of Multidrop 384 or Multidrop Micro.
EN European Norm.
EU European Union.
home position The plate carrier is positioned to
the furthest right of the transfer rails.
IEC International Electrotechnical Commission.

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 117

 Glossary:

118 Varioskan™ User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

Index

default protocols, 53
1 default values, 38
1536-well plates, 13, 14, 47 deleting a protocol, 52, 97
dispensing
3 accuracy, 89, 90
direction, 34, 46, 47
384-well plates, 13, 14, 47, 79, 85, 94, 104
height, 34, 38, 44, 45, 117
offset, 34, 38, 43, 44
6
parameters, 36, 37, 80, 86
6 – 48-well plate dispensing instructions, 107 precision, 90
range, 26
9 speed, 15, 34, 39, 42, 43, 84, 89, 90, 95
96-well plates, 14, 47, 79, 80, 83, 84, 85, 94, 104 volume, 35, 36, 38, 39, 41, 80, 85, 86, 89, 90, 99, 107
disposal of dispensing cassette, 78
A disposal of instrument, 66
disposal of materials, 64
accessories, 6, 19, 20, 103
accuracy verification, 79, 80, 81, 82, 85
advantages of using Multidrop Combi, 15 E
autoclaving the dispensing cassette, 69 editing a protocol, 34, 37, 42, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53
EIA, 64, 117
B empty, 31, 35, 40, 60, 65, 66, 67, 68, 79, 84, 86, 89, 107,
108, 117
backflush, 15, 31, 117
emulation mode, 117
EN, 91, 92, 117
C environmental requirements, 20
calibration, 28, 34, 58, 59, 71, 74, 75, 76, 77, 79, 81, 85, 86, error codes, 97
87, 93, 94, 117 error messages, 97
screw, 71, 74, 75, 76, 77, 86, 87, 117 EU, 67, 117
CE Marking, 117
cleaning the tips, 68
F
column selection, 13, 34, 39, 41
feedback form, 115
command set, 55
computer interface, 34, 54, 55
consumables, 2 G
contrast and buzzer, 34, 57 glossary, 117
control panel, 31, 89, 99 guidelines for use, 6

D H
dead volume, 93 hazards, 4, 63, 99, 100, 113
decontamination, 60, 63, 64, 65, 66, 101, 113, 117 home position, 14, 23, 31, 47
deep-well plates, 104

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 119

I rotor, 23, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 60, 80, 83, 86, 95, 97, 98,
107
icons, 33, 34
speed, 15, 34, 39, 42, 43, 84, 89, 90, 95
IEC, 89, 117
info text, 32, 33
installation, 3, 19, 20, 21, 23, 27, 66, 71, 80, 83, 86, 115
R
intended use, 3, 13 reagent pretreatment, 26
internal software, 3, 31, 37, 95, 97, 99 recalibrating the dispensing cassette, 79
releasing the transport lock, 21
K remote control, 15, 55, 92, 117
remote mode, 34, 55, 56, 92
keyboard and display, 18, 31, 89
rest position, 30, 35, 60, 67, 108
robotic, 14
M rotor, 23, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 60, 80, 83, 86, 97, 98, 107
maintenance, 3, 6, 63, 66, 67, 90, 101 cover, 23, 30, 35, 80, 83, 86, 97, 98, 107
markings, 117 needles, 28
shaft, 27, 29
N running a protocol, 48
navigating, 31, 32, 33, 36
S
O saving a protocol, 34, 38, 42, 49, 50, 51, 52, 54, 71
operational check, 23 selecting a protocol, 52
ordering information, 3 selecting columns, 13, 34, 39, 40, 80, 86
service, 61, 63, 66, 97, 100, 101, 103
P contracts, 63, 66
shutdown, 60, 68
packing instructions, 19, 66
specifications, 3, 66, 67, 89, 90, 91
packing list, 19
speed, 15, 39, 42, 43, 95
plate
startup, 34, 53, 56, 57, 95
carrier, 14, 22, 23, 25, 44, 47, 66, 80, 84, 97, 117
start-up protocol, 34, 53, 56, 57
type, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48,
52, 57, 80, 86, 107 symbols and markings, 4, 5, 6
precalibration, 76, 77
precautions and limitations, 20 T
precision verification, 79, 81, 83 technical specifications, 3, 81, 89
predispense, 23, 31, 36, 45, 67, 84, 117 tension limiting wires, 27, 28, 29, 71, 72, 74, 117
predispensing, 34, 45, 46, 65, 67, 97, 117 tip, 26, 27, 29, 30, 38, 68, 69, 70, 71, 94, 103, 117
volume, 34, 45, 46 manifold, 70, 71
prime, 23, 31, 34, 35, 36, 45, 46, 48, 65, 67, 68, 80, 84, 86, material, 26
89, 97, 98, 107, 117 transport, 19, 21, 22, 65, 66, 89, 100
priming vessel, 15, 23, 25, 35, 48, 63, 64, 66, 80, 83, 86, 89, lock, 21, 22, 66
95, 97, 98, 103, 107
package, 19, 65
priming volume, 34, 45, 46
troubleshooting, 3, 23, 97, 101
principle of operation, 13, 15
tubing, 25, 26, 29, 30, 35, 48, 60, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74,
protocol settings, 42 75, 77, 84, 103, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 117
pump, 13, 14, 22, 23, 27, 28, 30, 31, 42, 43, 44, 45, 47, 58, material, 26
95, 97, 117
lifting mechanism, 14, 23, 47, 97

120 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

U conversion factor, 79, 81
unpacking, 19 range, 13, 15, 39, 46
USB, 14, 54, 89, 103, 117
using the keyboard and display, 18, 31, 89, 99 W
warning messages, 3, 99
V warranty, 2, 19, 100
washing the dispensing cassette, 67
volume, 13, 15, 34, 36, 38, 39, 41, 45, 46, 79, 80, 81, 82,
83, 84, 85, 93, 94 WEEE, 4, 67, 91

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 121

122 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation
Notes

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 123

Notes

124 Multidrop® Combi User Manual Thermo Electron Corporation

Notes

Thermo Electron Corporation Multidrop® Combi User Manual 125

Thermo Electron Corporation
Microplate Instrumentation
Ratastie 2, P.O. Box 100
FIN-01621 Vantaa
Finland

www.thermo.com

N05616