Denville BioDrop Spectrophotometers User Manual V2

#1005369 #1005366 #1005363
BioDrop TOUCH / TOUCH PC/ Lite/ Duo

UV Visible Spectrophotometers
BioDrop
User TOUCH
Manual / TOUCH PC/ Lite/ Duo
UV Visible Spectrophotometers
User Manual
www.densci.com info@densci.com Fax 908.757.7551

Order 800.453.0385 84 October Hill Road Holliston MA 01746
CONTENTS:
HEALTH & SAFETY 1
General Safety 1
General Hazards
Unpacking & Installation 4
Instrument Connections 4
Equipment Operation 5
Controls and Indicators 5
Intended Users 5
Instrument Preparation 7
Post Run Procedures 8
Performance Validation 8
User Maintenance 8
Troubleshooting 8
Customer Support Contacts 10
Service, Repair or Return 10
Disposal 10
INTRODUCTION TO THE BIODROP SPECTROPHOTOMETER 12
USE WITH RESOLUTION PC SOFTWARE 12
FREQUENTLY USED ICONS 13
PERFORMING A MEASUREMENT 20
TYPES OF BOXES 15
SETTINGS 16
Date and Time 16
Regional 17
Data Output 17
User Interface 17
Instrument Settings 18
Instrument Information 18
Instrument Settings 18
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USER ACCESS 19
Adding a user 19
Editing a user 19
Deleting a user 19
Editing user access 20
APPLICATIONS 21
Single Wavelength 22
Concentration via factor 23
Wavescan 25
Kinetics 27
Trace Manager Overlaying & manipulating wavescan and kinetics files 30
Standard Curve 33
Equation Editor 36
LIFE SCIENCE APPLICATIONS 43
Nucleic Acid Applications 45
DNA, RNA & Oligo 48
CyDye DNA 48
Tm Calculation 50
Protein Applications 54
BCA, Bradford, Lowry & Biuret Protein Assays 54
Determination of Protein Concentration using the BCA protein assay 54
Determination of Protein Concentration using direct UV methods 59
Protein UV 60
Protein A280 62
SAVING & PRINTING 63
Saving Sample Data 63
Internal 63
USB 63
USB csv 64
Automatic Saving 65
Manual Saving 65
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Exporting Data 66
SAMPLE MANAGER 66
Deleting data from the internal memory 67
Accessing Sample Manager from the main screen 68
Accessing Sample Manager from within an application 68
Recalled files 69
SAVING METHODS 70
Methods saved to the internal memory 70
Methods folder 71
Renaming methods folder 71
Locking saved methods 71
Deleting saved methods 72
Backing up method folders to USB 72
Favourites folder 72
Saving methods to USB 73
PRINTING 73
Built in Printer 73
Print via computer (PVC) 73
Automatic printing 74
Manual printing 74
Built-in Printer Installation 75
Built-in Printer Paper Refill 77
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 79
TABLE OF ICONS 80
GLOSSARY OF BOXES 85
Version 2.0 iii

HEALTH & SAFETY
Safety Conformance
This equipment has been designed to conform to the following directives
2006/95/EC Low voltage equipment safety directive

2004/108/EC EMC directive
2002/96/EC EU Directive on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)
2011/65/EU EU ROHS directive
2006/42/EC Machinery directive
Standards, to which conformity is declared include:
EN61010-1:2010 Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control

and laboratory use. General requirements
EN61010-2-101:2002 Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control
and laboratory use. Particular requirements for in vitro diagnostic (IVD)
medical equipment
EN61326-1:2006* Electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use -EMC
Requirements
EN ISO 12100:2010 Safety of machinery Basic concepts, general principles for design
* This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a CLASS A digital device,
pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules
Hazards and Warnings

This section describes potential hazards which may exist in the operation of these units. A number of
warning labels and symbols are affixed to your instrument. These symbols are used to inform you of
potential dangers which may exist or where caution is required. Before installing your new unit,
please take time to familiarise yourself with these warnings and symbols.
This instrument is subject to the following identified hazards:
This unit uses a Xenon lamp which is a high energy light source. DO NOT look
closely at the cuvette holder or the micro-volume sample port when performing a
measurement as prolonged exposure to the light source may result in permanent
eye damage.
High voltages exist within the power supply unit and the Xenon lamp housing. Repair
and maintenance should only be carried out by individuals trained to work on these
instruments.
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There are no bio-hazardous materials within the unit; however, this unit may be
exposed to bio-hazardous samples during normal laboratory use. We recommend
the following decontamination procedures of this instrument to protect users:
remove cuvettes and cuvette holders and wash with appropriate disinfectant for
the bio hazard in question, rinsed with distilled water and then allowed to dry. The
exterior may be wiped with a suitable disinfectant cleaning wipe. In addition, we
recommend the following:
Include an appropriate decontamination certificate for equipment returned
for repair.
Ensure that the operator of the equipment is provided with a safe working
environment.
Use, store and dispose of any chemicals in accordance with manufacturers
guidelines and local safety regulations.
Provide suitable ventilation when working with volatile solvents or toxic
substances.
Dispose of solvents and chemicals that may be classed as hazardous waste in
accordance with local regulatory practice.
Determine if personal protective equipment (PPE) is required for handling
laboratory samples.
All models can be connected to and operated from a PC. Those without a user
interface cannot be operated without a PC. To preserve the integrity of the
measuring equipment it is essential that the attached PC itself conforms to basic
safety and EMC standards and is set up in accordance with the manufacturers
instructions. If in doubt, consult the information that came with your PC.
The following safety precautions should be observed when operating a PC
To reduce the chance of eye strain, set up the PC display with the correct
viewing position, free from glare and with appropriate brightness and
contrast settings
To reduce the chance of cross contamination from biological samples, use
appropriate personnel protection measures and disinfectant wipes on
keyboard and mouse.
Emergency Procedure
In the event of contamination, malfunction or hazard occurring, the operator
should disconnect the unit, by removing the power cord, and isolate for
decontamination
and/or repair.
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Unpacking and Installation
Units weigh less than 4kg. No special handling is required.
Please keep the original packaging for transport for service or repair as it has been
specifically designed to protect the unit from damage during transit.
Inspect the instrument and its power supply for any signs of damage caused during transit. If
any damage is discovered, do not use the instrument and report the problem to your
supplier.
Ensure your proposed installation site conforms to the environmental conditions for safe
operation
o Indoor use
o 5 to 40 C
o Maximum relative humidity 90% up to 31 C decreasing linearly to 50% at 40 C
Extremes of temperature may require recalibration of the unit for optimal performance.
If the instrument has been stored in a cold environment then it should be allowed to come
to room temperature before turning on the instrument to avoid compromising the internal
calibration procedure.
The instrument must be placed on a stable, level bench or table capable of taking its weight
with sufficient space around the instrument for air to circulate freely.
The equipment is operated using an 18 VDC power supply adapter unit. Always use the
power supply adapter and mains cords supplied.
Local mains power requirements are as follows
o 100 to 240 VAC~
o 50 or 60 Hz
The UK style mains cord plug has a user replaceable 3A fuse. Replace only with the same
rating and type 3A BS1362.
The unit maximum power rating is 50VA.
The instrument should be positioned so that the power supply cable may be readily
removed in the event of a hazard or malfunction.
Locate the instrument in an atmosphere free from dust and corrosive fumes. Use the dust
cover to further protect the instrument when not in use or powered.
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Instrument Connections
USB connector for PC connection 18V power supply connector
USB connector for USB memory stick
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Equipment Operation
BioDrop TOUCH PC
The BioDrop TOUCH spectrophotometer is available as a PC only variant, which has no touch screen
user interface and must be controlled by a PC running BioDrop Resolution software.
The BioDrop TOUCH PC must be connected via USB to a PC and connected to a power supply, and
the instrument will power up automatically.
Insert the USB and power cables in the sockets at the back of the instrument.
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BioDrop TOUCH - Controls and Indicators
LED on when
USB in use
On/Off switch
Note: The off switch is only active from the home screen, pressing it whilst any sub menus are
displayed takes you back to the home screen, pressing again will switch the instrument off.
BioDrop Lite
The BioDrop Lite has an aluminium coated sample port for microvolume analysis.
BioDrop Lite sample port
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BioDrop Duo
The BioDrop Duo harbours a sample port and a

BioDrop CUVETTE holder for analysis.
Note: Simultanoeus analysis using the

microvolume sample port and the BioDrop
CUVETTE cannot be carried out.
INTENDED USERS
The instrument is intended to be used by scientists and technicians who possess basic laboratory
and technical skills and have the knowledge and understanding of the hazards involved, with the
unit and the samples used, to operate it in a safe manner.
Instrument Preparation
Switch on the unit and allow it to finish its start up calibration.

If applicable connect the unit to a PC using a USB cable and refer to the online help and user
manual.
Select the appropriate application or method.
Where relevant, set up the application parameters for the sample.
Select the correct type. It is important to use cuvettes with the correct parameters. Most
samples are measured using a standard 10mm path length cuvette. Special cuvettes and
accessories are available for larger or smaller path lengths and sample volumes. The BioDrop
CUVETTE is an example of a specialized micro-volume cuvette which can be used with the
spectrophotometer. It is important to use cuvettes of the correct type. Plastic used in many
cuvettes absorb UV light and thus are not suitable for UV sample measurement. Cuvettes
used for measurement should be free from dust, residue or scratches.
Before preparing samples and sample reference blanks, familiarise yourself with hazards
arising from handling the sample materials and where necessary observe local regulatory
practice, personnel protection equipment and measures designed to ensure your safety.
Prepare the sample blanks (reference) in the same solution used to dissolve the sample.
Prepare the sample solutions.
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When placing the cuvette in the equipment ensure the cuvette is orientated so that the light energy
will pass through the cuvette.
Post Run procedures
Empty cuvette and rinse with deionised water
Clean cuvettes periodically with commercially available cleaning solution or dilute detergent
solution followed by several thorough rinses in deionised water.
Note that some samples and solvents may be classified as hazardous or bio hazardous
waste. The disposal of such substances must be carried out in accordance with local
regulatory practice.
Performance Validation
Good laboratory practice requires that the unit is periodically checked for optical performance.
Switch on validation tests. When the unit is powered up it performs wavelength accuracy
and lamp energy tests.
Periodically wavelength, stray light and absorbance accuracy should be tested to ensure the
unit is performing to specification. Deterioration in performance may indicate that the
instrument requires service. Performance validation can be performed using reference
materials.
User Maintenance
There are no user serviceable parts in this instrument.
To prevent cross-contamination and protect users from occupationally acquired infections,
keep the unit clean and free from contaminates.
o Cuvette holders and accessories should be removed and cleaned with commercially
available cleaning solution or dilute detergent followed by a thorough rinse in deionised
water. Allow to dry thoroughly before use
o Casework and the sample compartment may be wiped down with commercially
available disinfectant wipes
o Periodically validate the optical performance and refer the instrument for regular
servicing and calibration
If the equipment is operated in a manner not specified, then the protection

provided by the equipment may be impaired and the instrument warranty
withdrawn.
Troubleshooting
Problem Possible Cause

Negative absorbance Sample measurements will be negative absorbance reading if the
readings absorbance value of the reference is higher than the sample. Negative
readings can also result if reference and sample are interchanged or if
the sample is very dilute and close to the absorbance of the reference.
Contact your supplier for advice on the minimum concentrations that
can be measured.
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Unexpected results Bubbles or contamination in the sample or reference can result in
considerable errors. If using BioDrop cuvettes check using the bubble
viewer provided.
Incorrect cuvette orientation. Rotate by 90 and repeat.
Incorrect cuvette material for UV measurement wavelengths.
Wrong pathlength selected in software.
For Duo models, sample placed in cell holder and on micro volume
sample platform at the same time.
Absorbance higher Incorrect sample reference.
than expected Incorrect cuvette orientation.
Incorrect cuvette material for measurement wavelengths.
For Duo models, sample placed in cell holder and on micro-volume
sample platform at the same time.
Contamination in sample or on cuvette.
For DNA applications check 320nm background, if higher than 0, select
background correction in method set up.
Possible incorrect optical alignment. Contact technical support.
Absorbance lower Incorrect sample reference.
than expected Check sample and reference for contamination.
Check sample and reference samples are not the same.
Incorrect cuvette material for measurement wavelengths.
For standard cuvettes, ensure the beam goes through the sample (fill
cuvette with sample to 20mm from the base).
For micro-volume sample platform check size and position of droplet.
For DNA applications check that the measurements at 230nm and
320nm are near 0.
Possible stray light issue. Contact technical support.
Poor reproducibility Insufficient sample in cuvette.
Cuvette in wrong orientation.
Cuvette material unsuitable for wavelengths used.
Concentration of sample too low or too high. For best results the
measured sample absorbance using a 10mm path length cuvette should
ideally be between 0.1 and 2.0 A. If absorbance is >2 A, measurement is
no longer in the linear range.
Particulates in sample. Absorbance measurements will not be accurate
in turbid samples.
Possible noise or measurement stability issue. Contact technical
support.
Instrument start up Check all sample paths are clear and clean dried on DNA/Protein
reported failure sample on the Micro-volume head on the Duo and Lite units may
cause start up calibration errors.
Check original 18V dc supply is connected and is fully engaged.
Report persistent failures to technical support.
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Absorbance readings Check that the Absorbance displayed is being normalised to a path
stable but different length of 10mm if a micro-volume device (like BioDrop CUVETTE) is
than expected used.
Note that with a 0.5mm path length the ideal measurement range
becomes equivalent when normalised to 2A to 50A and for a path
length of 0.125mm it becomes 8A to 200A.
For unresolved Absorbance issues contact technical support.
Contacts and Technical Support

If you have any problems using your instrument in the first instance please refer to the trouble
shooting guide. If you require further assistance, please get in touch
Web http://www.biodrop.co.uk/
Telephone +44 (0) 203 301 2504
General enquiries enquiries@biodrop.co.uk
Support support@biodrop.co.uk
Service, Repair or Return

Good laboratory practice requires that the unit be periodically serviced to ensure
optimal performance and can be arranged through your local BioDrop distributor. Prior to
inspection, servicing, repair or return the unit must be decontaminated.
A returns policy operates on this equipment. Before returning the equipment to the distributor or
manufacturer
Complete a returns request form. Available from the BioDrop web site or your local
distributor
Return the unit together with a completed declaration of decontamination form, available
from the BioDrop web site or your local distributor
Please note that the instrument will not be accepted for servicing or return until a
completed declaration of decontamination has been received
Instruments that have not been cleaned sufficiently or decontaminated may be subject to
additional charges and/or return delay
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Disposal
Decontamination
In use this product may have been in contact with bio-hazardous materials.
Before disposal the product should be thoroughly cleaned in disinfectant and
rinsed with distilled water. All outside surfaces and sample areas must be wiped
down with disinfectant wipes suitable for purpose and biohazard to which the
instrument was exposed.
WEEE
These instruments are covered by the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment
(WEEE) Directive and must not to be disposed of as unsorted municipal waste. All
products marked with this symbol that are to be scrapped must be collected
separately and in accordance with local regulatory practice. Please contact an
authorised representative of the manufacturer for information concerning the
decommissioning of your equipment and if required collection.
Manufacturing Information
Requirement Content
Name and address of manufacturer Biochrom Ltd, 22 Cambridge Science Park,
Milton Road, Cambridge, CB4 0FJ UK
Place and date of declaration of conformity Cambridge UK July 2012
Identity of authorised person to sign declaration Sam Luke, Managing Director Biochrom Ltd
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INTRODUCTION TO THE BIODROP SPECTROPHOTOMETERS
The BioDrop TOUCH is a standalone, easy to use, split beam spectrophotometer with a high
resolution colour touch screen. The BioDrop TOUCH spectrophotometer offers a comprehensive
range of spectrophotometric and life science applications.
The BioDrop Lite is a split beam spectrophotometer which has similar specifications to that of the
TOUCH, but differs by harbouring a microvolume sample port for analysis. The in-built sample port
has a path length of 0.5mm unlike that of the TOUCH (10mm).
The BioDrop Duo spectrophotometer displays specifications attributed to both the TOUCH and Lite.
It contains a sample port for rapid microvolume analysis and offers BioDrop CUVETTE analysis as in
the TOUCH.
A spectrophotometer is an optical device that is designed to transmit a beam of light through a
sample. Transparent solutions absorb specific wavelengths of light based on their unique molecular
composition. Absorbance is proportional to concentration of a sample. Absorbance peaks of a
sample can also be used to identify its molecular composition. In kinetic studies, the tracking of
absorbance over time can be useful to study chemical reactions and biological processes.
The BioDrop spectrophotometers are designed to emit light from the far ultraviolet (190 nm) to the
visible light (1100 nm). Many materials, and in particular solutions of materials will absorb light
within this region. This makes BioDrop spectrophotometers useful in a wide range of applications
including life sciences, clinical, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, food & drink, agricultural, industrial,
environmental, toxicology, water treatment and teaching. There are numerous published methods
and assays for these applications.
The icons described throughout this manual use the names quoted in the Table of Icons on page 80,
if you are unsure of any of their functions please refer to this section.
For detailed descriptions of the functions of parameter boxes please refer to the Glossary of Boxes
section.
Note: Throughout this manual all screen shots are shown on a white background, there is also a
black background available.
USE WITH BIODROP RESOLUTION PC SOFTWARE

When connected to a PC the BioDrop spectrophotometer can be controlled using the BioDrop
Resolution PC software packages. The BioDrop TOUCH PC variant has no touch screen user interface,
and must be controlled using Resolution software. Operation using BioDrop Resolution PC software
is described in the Resolution user manual or Resolution help file.
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FREQUENTLY USED ICONS
ICON NAME FUNCTION
Forward arrow Advances to the next screen in a sequence
Back arrow Returns to the previous screen in a sequence
Tick Confirms selection/entry. Saves and exits
Cross/exit Exit without saving
ICONS ON THE SAMPLE MEASUREMENT SCREEN
Take reference Performs a reference measurement
Take measurement Performs a sample measurement
Opens the options menu on the sample

Options arrow
measurement screen
ICONS ON THE OPTIONS MENU
Takes the user from the sample measurement

Method parameters
screen to the first method parameter screen
Allows the user to manually save sample data to a

Save data
specified location.
Allows the user to save the current method

Save method
parameters to the internal memory or a USB stick
Print Prints the sample data from the specified printer
Toggles auto print on and off green surround =

Auto print
on
Sample Manager Accesses Sample Manager
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Accesses Trace Manager (wavescan and kinetics
Trace Manager
only).
First time powered on

The first time the BioDrop spectrophotometer is powered on the user will be prompted to set their
regional setting preferences for language and local date/time.
REGIONAL
The BioDrop spectrophotometer will arrive with the

language set to English. This can be changed by pressing the
Language box; the options are English, French, German and
Spanish.
To save any alterations press the tick, to exit without saving

press the cross.
DATE & TIME
The BioDrop spectrophotometer will arrive with the UK time

and date set. This can be changed by pressing Date and
Time.
After the desired date and time have been entered, select
the tick to save and exit or the cross to exit without saving
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TYPES OF BOXES
The BioDrop spectrophotometer uses different kinds of boxes for parameter selection and entry,
these include.
Alphanumeric Text Entry
The alphanumeric text entry box allows the user to enter

letters, numbers and symbols by pressing abc, 123 and !,
respectively. It is possible to toggle between upper and
lower case letters and through a list of symbols by pressing
abc and ! twice.
Note: The layout of the screen is dependent on the text

entry mode set under User Interface in Settings.
Numeric Entry
The numeric entry box allows the user to include numbers in the method
parameters. Depending on the numeric box selected it may be possible to add
both positive and negative numbers.
Selection list/Combination Box
Where there are more than two options, the user will be presented with a
list. If there are more than 8 options the user can scroll through these using
either the page up and page down arrows or the scroll bar.
Note: If a box only contains two options i.e. On or Off, pressing the box on
the screen will toggle between the options and not produce a combination
box.
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SETTINGS
Settings are accessed via the Settings button on the main screen (see below)
Note: If User Access has been selected the User Access Icon will only appear for users with
Administrator privileges.
DATE & TIME
The BioDrop spectrophotometer will arrive with the UK time

and date set. This can be changed by pressing Date and
Time.
After the desired date and time have been entered, select
the tick to save and exit or the cross to exit without saving.
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REGIONAL
The BioDrop spectrophotometer will arrive with the

language set to English. This can be changed by pressing the
Language box; the options are English, French, German and
Spanish.
To save any alterations press the tick, to exit without saving

press the cross.
Data Output
This is the default saving and printing settings that will be

used in all application method parameters. These can be
overwritten in an application
User Interface
Allows the user to set the desired brightness level of the

screen, the alphanumeric text entry mode and the
duration after which the screensaver will be displayed (if
required). Theme sets the screen background to either
Black or White.
Service
The Service section is for use only by a trained service engineer or upon recommendation of a
member of BioDrop technical support.
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INSTRUMENT SETTINGS
The following options are included under instrument settings:
Instrument Information
Instrument information displays the serial number, user-

interface (UI) version, build and release dates and instrument
control (IC) version.
Instrument Settings
Instrument Settings allows the user to:
1. Collect a new, temporary baseline. This will be stored until
the instrument is powered off.
2. Save the temporary baseline. This will become the
permanent baseline and be stored until overwritten.
3. Restore the original baseline. If measurements show the
temporary baseline to be poor quality the permanent
baseline can be restored.
4. View instrument life in hours.
5. View service date (set by an engineer).
Lamp Settings
Lamp settings displays the current lamp status
To exit at any time press the exit button located in the

bottom right hand corner.
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USER ACCESS
The BioDrop spectrophotometer has an option to assign

users different access rights. These are set via the user
access icon.
Note: The User access icon is only available to users who

have administrator privileges.
Adding a user
To add a new user to the instrument, select Add user on the touch screen. The BioDrop
spectrophotometer can store up to 16 individual users.
Each user is given a user name (using alphanumeric entry),

a 4-digit password and assigned to one of three user
groups depending on the access level they require. The
table below outlines the features each user group can
access.
User Run Applications & Save Sample Delete Sample Data from the Save Access Access User
Group Saved Methods Data instruments memory Methods Settings Menu Settings
Limited

Supervisor

Admin

Editing a user
To edit a users details, highlight the desired user and select Edit user on the touch screen. This
allows the username, password and user group to be edited/updated as above.
Deleting a user
To delete a user from the instrument, highlight the desired user and press the Add user icon. Any
methods or data created by this user will not be deleted.
Note: It is not possible to delete the default administrator account.
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Editing User Access
To disable user logins and user access, highlight the default

administrator account and press Edit User to display the
screen left.
Note: With Show Login set to No the instrument will not

prompt for User Log on at start up, the Switch User icon
will not be displayed on the main screen and the instrument
will always be in Administrator mode.
PERFORMING A MEASUREMENT
BIODROP SPECTROPHOTOMETERS
The BioDrop spectrophotometers are a split-beam UV visible spectrophotometer that contains a

single cuvette holder for both reference and sample measurements (BioDrop TOUCH and Duo
respectively). Therefore, before performing sample measurements, it is necessary to perform a
reference measurement to correct for solvent and/or cuvette effects. This is done as follows:
1. Insert a cuvette containing the solvent/buffer in the cuvette holder.
2. Press Take Reference.
3. When the reference is complete, remove the cuvette containing solvent/buffer from the
cuvette holder, and insert a cuvette containing the sample solution.
4. Select Take Measurement.
5. Repeat steps 3 & 4 until all sample data has been collected. See the section Saving and
Printing for post measurement options.
Note: A single reference will suffice for subsequent analyses for samples with the same solvent.
In regards to the Lite and Duo measurements are taken as followed:
1. Load sample volume of a minimum of 0.5l of reference in the sample port.
2. Press Take Reference.
3. When the reference is complete, remove the sample by wiping with a lint free cloth from
the sample port, and load sample of interest.
4. Select Take Measurement.
5. Repeat steps 3 & 4 until all sample data has been collected. See the section Saving and
Printing for post measurement options.
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APPLICATIONS
Single Wavelength Absorbance, % transmission or concentration measurements at a

single, specified wavelength.
Wavescan Wavelength scan between two, user-defined wavelengths in the

range 190 to 1100 nm. The BioDrop TOUCH allows data overlay,
post-scan data manipulation and user configurable peak and valley
functions.
Kinetics Measurements of Absorbance versus time to determine rate or end

points. The BioDrop spectrophotometers allow data overlay, post-
scan data manipulation and user defined sectors.
Standard Curve Concentration measurement at a single wavelength determined by

the generation of a calibration curve of known standards.
Equation Editor Allows users to create their own unique methods including
calculations and thresholds.
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SINGLE WAVELENGTH
The Single Wavelength application performs simple absorbance (A) and % transmission (%T)
measurements on samples, measuring the amount of light that has passed through a sample relative
to a reference (this can be air).
MEASUREMENT PARAMETERS
Set Mode to Absorbance, %T or Concentration.

Wavelength, and Integration Time can be set as required.
The Sample Seed entered under Sample will be the
filename used for any data file saved automatically.
You may advance to the next screen at any time by

selecting the forward arrow or return to the previous
screen by selecting the back arrow.
Set the outputs required in your method. For more

information see the section Saving and Printing.
The Lite sample port has set pathlength setting of 0.5mm

and can be selected from the drop down menu under
Pathlength.
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TAKING A MEASUREMENT
To perform a measurement, insert a cuvette containing the

reference solution in the cuvette holder (for Lite and Duo,
load reference directly on the Lite sample port ) and press
the reference button. Remove and replace with a cuvette
containing the sample. For the Lite sample port, wipe away
the reference with a lint free cloth and load the sample
directly on the port. When the sample is loaded, press the
Take Measurement button. A single reference suffices for
subsequent analyses in the same series.
SAVING & PRINTING
For details of manual saving and printing see the Saving and Printing section.
CONCENTRATION VIA FACTOR

This mode within the Single Wavelength application makes simple concentration measurements on
samples. Concentration is obtained by multiplying the measured absorbance at a specific
wavelength by a factor. The factor may be known in advance or may be calculated by the instrument
by measuring a standard of known concentration. Examples of concentration measurements include
DNA or protein.
From the main screen of the BioDrop spectrophotometer select Applications followed by Single
Wavelength to display the screen below.
Set Mode to Concentration. Wavelength and Integration

Time can be set as required. The Sample Seed entered under
Sample will be the filename used for any data file saved
automatically.
You may advance to the next screen at any time by pressing

the forward arrow and return to the previous screen by
pressing the back arrow.
Set Factor Method as required, enter Factor using numeric

entry and Units using alphanumeric entry.
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containing the sample. For the Lite sample port, wipe
away the reference with a lint free cloth and load the
sample directly on the port. When the sample is loaded,
press the Take Measurement button.
Note: For assays where there is no established concentration factor, calibration should be carried
out using prepared standards (see Standard Curve for details of how to perform this).
SAVING & PRINTING
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WAVESCAN
A measurement of absorbance or % transmission of a sample over a specified wavelength range is
one of the most useful physical characteristics of a compound, both as means of identification
(qualitative analysis) and of estimation (quantitative analysis). The observed features arise due to
the various electronic transitions that are possible within a molecule. The BioDrop
spectrophotometers offer a range of post-scan data manipulation options including: 1st order
derivative, enabling identification of multiple, unresolved peaks; 2nd order derivative, enabling
identification of peak shoulders (inflections); 4th order derivative, which identifies both multiple
peaks and inflections at the same time; Smoothing, utilises the Savitzky-Golay algorithm to smooth
data and increase the signal to noise ratio; Enhanced, which enhances features, sharpening peaks
and valleys.
Use Max Wavelength and Min Wavelength to set the

required wavelength range. Set, Mode and Integration time
as required. The Sample Seed entered under Sample will be
the filename of any automatically saved file. No. of Samples
is described below.
Note: With Sample Overlays set to 2, all wavelength scans will be automatically saved to the
instruments internal memory and will be displayed in Trace Manager.
You may advance to the next screen at any time by pressing the forward arrow and return to the
previous screen by pressing the back arrow.
This measurement parameters screen allows the user to set

the following parameters:
Feature Detection: Determines the number of peaks or

valleys that will be automatically detected. Options are
Coarse, Sensitive or Custom.
Feature Type: The feature types that will be detected by the

software. Options are Peaks or Valleys.
Feature Sort: Determines the how the features will be displayed in the data table. Wavelength
shows the peaks in ascending wavelength whilst Magnitude displays then in descending size.
Draw Peaks: When set to ON the width of the peak and the height of the detected peaks will be
indicated using dashed lines
Version 2.0 25
Custom Peak Height: Only displayed if Feature Detection is set to Custom. This is the minimum
height the peak has to be above the higher of the two adjacent minima for the peak to be detected.
Custom Peak Width: Only displayed if Feature Detection is set to Custom. This is the minimum width
of the peak as determined by the difference in wavelength between the higher of the two adjacent
minima and the opposing intersection of that higher minimum level and the peak profile.


containing the sample. For the Lite sample port, wipe away
the reference with a lint free cloth and load the sample
directly on the port. When the sample is loaded, press the
Take Measurement button.
With Feature Detection set to Coarse, Sensitive or Custom the sample measurement screen will
display a table below the scan. This table will display the Feature Type selected in the method
parameters. To manually add a peak or valley to the table, position the cursor over the desired
feature by either touching the feature or using the left and right cursors and press an empty cell in
the table.
Note: Details of how to perform overlays, data manipulation and selecting saved files can be found
in the Trace Manager section.
Version 2.0 26
KINETICS
Kinetics measurements made using a UV/visible spectrophotometer measure the change in
absorbance at a single, fixed wavelength over a specified period. This can be used to provide useful
information when an appropriate factor, defined in a reagent kit protocol, is applied. Reagent test
kits are routinely used for the enzymatic determination of compounds in food, beverage and clinical
laboratories.
UV/visible spectrophotometric kinetic assays are considered one of the most convenient
measurements for enzymatic assays since they allow the rate of the reaction to be measured
continuously.
SERIAL KINETICS MEASUREMENTS
Serial kinetics is the measurement of the absorbance of a single sample over a specified duration at
a specified interval. As the BioDrop TOUCH is capable of taking up to 1 reading per second serial
kinetics measurements can be used for rapid rate reactions.
Wavelength can be set as you require. The Sample Seed

entered under Sample will be the filename of any
automatically saved file. No. of Samples is described below.
Note: When performing a serial kinetics measurement with more than sample the measurement
proceeds as follows: Sample 1 will be measured for the full duration at the specified interval, after
this is complete sample 2 will be measured for the full duration at the specified interval. The
measurement will continue in this manner until all samples have been recorded. When measuring
more than 1 sample, all data will be overlaid at the end of the measurement and automatically
saved to the instruments internal memory.
Set the Delay (time before first measurement), Duration

(total measurement time, up to 180 minutes), Interval
(duration between readings, from 1 second to duration) and
Integration Time that you require.
Note: The integration time is determined by the interval (i.e.
the maximum integration time is half the interval time)
Version 2.0 27
Mode has options for Delta A, Final A and Slope and is the
value that will be multiplied by the Factor to give the
Result on the sample measurement screen. Units are
entered using alphanumeric text entry and will appear on
any printed or exported data. Y min and Y max are what is
displayed during the measurement, the y axis auto-scales
upon completion.

To perform a measurement, insert a cuvette (or load directly

onto the Lite sample port) containing the reference
solution in the cuvette holder and press the reference
button. Remove and replace with a cuvette containing the
sample (or load sample directly onto the Lite sample port)
and press the take measurement button. A single reference
suffices for subsequent analyses in the same series.
.
Note: Measurements will commence after the specified Delay period (if applicable).
A measurement can be stopped at any time by pressing the

Stop button at the bottom of the screen. All data collected
to this point will be displayed on screen and can be saved.
The data displayed in the table below the scan refers to the
full measurement range. To obtain data for a specific
Version 2.0 28
section it is necessary to add sections, this is done as follows: Set the cursor to the desired start
position by either pressing on the scan or using the cursors, select t0 from the options menu, set the
cursor to the desired end position and select t1 from the options menu. This can be repeated to add
up to 4 discrete sections.
Note: Sections must be added in numerical order i.e. t1 must be added after t0, t2 after t1 etc.
With sections defined, the data displayed in the table below

the scan is determined by the position of the cursor. Only
when the cursor is positioned in the section of interest will
this data be displayed.
A line of best fit can be added to any section by positioning

the cursor in the desired section and selecting the add line
of best fit button from the options menu
Note: Details of how to perform overlays, data manipulation and selecting saved files can be found
in the Trace Manager section.
SAVING AND PRINTING
Version 2.0 29
TRACE MANAGER OVERLAYING & MANIPULATING WAVESCAN &
KINETICS FILES
Trace Manager is the application used by the BioDrop spectrophotometers to overlay and
manipulate wavescan and kinetics files. Samples are loaded into Trace Manager as described below:
USING SAMPLE MANAGER
Wavescan and kinetics files can be loaded directly into Trace Manager by selecting the required files
from Sample Manager on the main screen. This procedure is outlined below:
Highlight the required files by pressing on the appropriate

row and load these into Trace Manager by pressing the
Sample Manager icon (bottom right corner). If the files you
require are not displayed on the screen you can scroll
through the pages using the up and down arrows. Pressing
on the Sample ID and Date column headers will sort the files
alphabetically and chronologically, respectively.
Note: If a USB memory stick is inserted, it is possible to toggle between files stored on the internal
and USB memories using the icon in the left hand corner. The icon in the top right corner of the
screen will display the memory that is currently in use.
All recalled files will be displayed on the Trace Manager

screen (up to 8). The colour of the Slot number will be the
colour of the trace when it is displayed on screen. To toggle
which files are displayed on the measurement screen press
in the appropriate Display box (up to 8 files can be
displayed). To select which files data will be displayed on the
measurement screen press in the appropriate selected box
(only one file may be selected). Press the forward arrow to
view the overlaid data
FROM WITHIN AN APPLICATION
To overlay saved files with a live trace displayed, Trace Manager can be accessed from within the
application. This procedure is required for Limited users as they do not have the ability to access
Sample Manager on the main screen.
Trace Manager can be accessed from the Wavescan and

Kinetics measurement screens using the Trace Manager
icon on the options menu.
Version 2.0 30
When accessed with no overlays displayed, Trace Manager
will be empty. Files are added to this screen by selecting the
Sample Manager icon in the left hand corner of the screen
and loading saved files as described below.
Highlight the required files by pressing on the appropriate

row and load these into Trace Manager by pressing the
Sample Manager icon. If the files you require are not
displayed on the screen you can scroll through the pages
using the up and down arrows. Pressing on the Sample ID
and Date column headers will sort the files alphabetically
and chronologically, respectively.
Note: If a USB memory stick is inserted, it is possible to toggle between files stored on the internal
and USB memories using the icon in the left hand corner. The icon in the top right corner will display
the memory that is currently in use.
All recalled files will be displayed on the Trace Manager

screen (up to 8). The colour of the Slot number will be the
colour of the trace when it is displayed on screen. To toggle
which files are displayed on the measurement screen press
in the appropriate Display box (up to 8 files can be
displayed). To select which files data will be displayed on the
measurement screen press in the appropriate selected box
(only one file may be selected). Press the forward arrow to
view the overlaid data.
POST SCAN MANIPULATION

Trace Manager allows the user to manipulate recalled wavescan and kinetics data using the
procedure outlined below.
With the required files loaded into Trace Manager press the
appropriate Trace Output box to display the manipulation
options.
Version 2.0 31
Wavescan post scan manipulations are:
Sample Data Displays the raw wavescan data (this is the default option).
1st 4th Derivative Displays the derivative data to the desired order.
Smoothed Uses the Savitzky-Golay algorithm to reduce noise and smooth the data.
Enhanced Enhances features, sharpening peaks and valleys.
Kinetics post scan manipulations are:
Sample Data Displays the raw kinetics data (this is the default option).
Low Applies a low level of smoothing to the data
Medium Applies a medium level of smoothing to the data
High Applies a high level of smoothing to the data
After the manipulations and display options have been set

as required press the forward arrow in the right corner to
display the recalled data on the sample measurement
screen.
Note: For wavescan and serial kinetic measurements with overlays set to >1 and parallel kinetic
measurements, data will be automatically saved into the instruments internal memory and
displayed in Trace Manager. To ensure the optimum performance of the instrument it is
recommended that unwanted files are deleted from the internal memory at regular intervals (see
Sample Manager deleting files from the internal memory).
Version 2.0 32
STANDARD CURVE
The construction of a multi-point calibration curve from standards of known concentration to
quantify unknown samples is a fundamental use of a spectrophotometer. The BioDrop
spectrophotometers have the advantage of being able to store calibration curves with a method.
Each calibration curve can be created using up to 9 standards, with each standard measurement
being made of up to 3 replicates.
CREATING A STANDARD CURVE
Set Wavelength and, Integration Time as required. The

Sample Seed entered under Sample will be the file name of
any file saved automatically.
Calibration can be set to Standards (the user is required to

prepare and measure standards) or Manual (the user inputs
both the standard concentrations and standard
absorbances). Set Standards, Replicates, Curve Fit and Units
as required in your application.
Set the concentration values for each of the standards using

the numeric entry box.
Version 2.0 33
Set the outputs required in your method. For more information see the section Saving and Printing.
To create the standard curve when using replicates press

the replicates button in the bottom right corner to take you
to the screen shown below. With Replicates off standards
can be measured directly as described below.
Note: Pressing the save method icon before any standards have been measured will save the
method parameters only. Recalling a method containing method parameters only requires the user
to construct a standard curve before measuring samples.
To create a standard curve, insert the cuvette containing the

reference solution in the cuvette holder and press the take
reference button. Remove and replace with a cuvette
containing the first standard/replicate in the series and
press the take measurement button. A single reference
suffices for standard curve creation.
Continue recording all standards/replicates until the
standard curve has been completed. To repeat any standard
measurements simply press the desired result, insert the
correct standard and press take measurement.
Note: After all replicates have been taken for a particular standard pressing the replicates icon takes
the user to the next standard that was specified in the method.
To ignore any outlying standard measurements, press the

tick in the appropriate row to toggle it to a cross. Any
ignored measurement will be automatically removed from
the standard curve. These can be reinstated by pressing the
cross.
Version 2.0 34
After the standard curve has been collected press the forward arrow to proceed to the sample
measurement screen.
To perform a measurement, insert the cuvette (or load

directly onto the Lite sample port) containing the
containing the sample and press the take measurement
button. A single reference suffices for subsequent analyses
in the same series.
To view the standard curve whilst on the sample measurement screen, simply press the View Curve
icon that appears under the options menu.
Note: Saving the method using the Save Method icon that appears on the options menu will save
both the method parameters and the standard curve. Recalling a method containing method
parameters and standard curve allows the user to measure samples directly.
SAVING & PRINTING

Version 2.0 35
Equation Editor
The Equation Editor application allows users to create their own unique methods that include
calculations and thresholds. Examples of methods that can be created using Equation Editor include
percentage strength calculations and olive oil and chlorophyll analyses.
GETTING STARTED
The use of Equation Editor is outlined below.
The first screen of Equation Editor allows the user to set

the measurement parameters that will be used for all
subsequent measurements. Integration Time and Mode are
used as in all other applications. The use of Prompt
between is described below.
Prompt between off The instrument will measure wavelength 1, measure wavelength 2, measure
wavelength 3 etc and then perform any calculations.
Prompt between on The instrument will measure wavelength 1, prompt, measure wavelength 2,
prompt, measure wavelength 3 etc and then perform any calculations. This
is used for equations that require wavelength measurements of different
samples e.g. chlorophyll analysis.
You can advance to the next screen at any time by pressing the forward arrow and return to the
Using the Sample Measurement table the user inputs all of

the measurements that are required in the method i.e. the
screen left shows a fixed wavelength measurement at
430.0 nm that is named 430. Data is inputted as described
below. Before any data is inputted Name will read Not set
and will not appear in the Sample Data list on the Equation
Builder.
Name Pressing this allows the user to input an alphanumeric name for the measurement.
The name inputted here will be used as the Sample Data in the Equation Builder
(inputted data only appears in the Equation Builder if the user has defined a name).
Wavelength Pressing this produces the number entry box that allows the user to input the
() wavelength for measurement.
Version 2.0 36
Function Pressing this displays a combination box with the following options.
Abs / %T at measurement will be at the wavelength inputted by the user only.
Peak closest to the instrument automatically finds the peak closest to the
inputted wavelength.
Valley closest to the instrument automatically finds the valley closest to the
inputted wavelength.
+/- Used with Peak closest to and Valley closest to only. This is the range over which
the instrument will scan for a peak or valley from the inputted wavelength.
Del Pressing this deletes the row. If the data is used in an equation this will also be
deleted.
Equation Editor has four options for sample naming

conventions. These are shown below:
Default The sample name consists of Sample and an incrementing number.

Auto Increment The sample name is a combination of sample seed and an incrementing
sample number. The user will be prompted to enter the sample seed for
each new batch of samples.
Prompt for ID The user is prompted to enter the sample name before running each
sample.
Fixed List The user will be prompted to enter the number of samples required. Sample
names for each sample are then entered on the subsequent screens. The
inputted sample names are saved for each method.
The Standard Specification screen is used to declare a list of

all of the standard solutions which will be referenced when
creating an equation.
E.g. the equation for percentage strength at 500 nm

compares the absorbance of a sample to the absorbance of
a control standard. This is where the control standard
would be defined.
Version 2.0 37
Standard names are entered by pressing on the desired row and entering the standard name using
alphanumeric text entry. Standard measurements can be made for any measurements specified in
the Samples table.
The Constant Factor Specification screen is used to declare

any constants used in the equation. Data is inputted as
described below. Before any data is inputted Constant
Name will read Not set and will not appear in the
Constants list on the Equation Builder.
Constant Name Pressing this allows the user to input an alphanumeric name for the
constant.
Value Pressing this produces the number entry box that allows the user to input
the value of the constant.
Units Pressing this allows the user to enter units for the constant using
alphanumeric text entry. If this column is left blank, no units will be
displayed on exported or printed data.
Del Pressing this deletes the row. If the constant is used in an equation this will
also be deleted.
The Variable Factor Specification screen is used to declare

any variables used in the equation. Data is inputted as
described below. Before any data is inputted, Variable Name
will read Not set and will not appear in the Variables list on
the Equation Builder.
Variable Name Pressing this allows the user to input an alphanumeric name for the variable
factor.
Default Selecting this produces the number entry box that allows the user to input
the default variable factor. Default values can be edited during a
measurement.
Units Selecting this allows the user to enter units for the variable factor using
alphanumeric text entry. If this column is left blank, no units will be
displayed on exported or printed data.
Version 2.0 38
Change Each Pressing this toggles between sample and batch. When set to sample the
method will prompt for a variable to be entered before each sample
measurement. When set to batch, the method will prompt for a variable to
be entered at the start of each sample batch.
The Equation Viewer screen provides an overview of any

equations created, as well as allowing the user to create
new or edit existing equations. Data is inputted as
described below. Before any data is inputted Name will
read Not set and will not appear on the results screen.
Name Pressing this allows the user to input a unique, alphanumeric name for the equation.
The names entered here will be displayed in the Equations combo box on the
Equation Builder screen as well the results screens. Therefore any equation can be
easily identified when using it in other equations.
Equation Pressing this takes the user to the Equation Builder (see below). Any equation
constructed in the Equation Builder will be displayed in this box.
Units Pressing this allows the user to enter units for the result of the equation using
alphanumeric text entry. If this column is left blank no units will be displayed
alongside the result.
Del Pressing this deletes the row and removes the equation.
The Equation Builder allows the user to create any equations

required in the method. Data is inputted as described below.
To allow data to be inserted or deleted the cursor can be
moved left and right using the left and right arrows. Data can
be deleted using the delete icon and thresholds added using
the thresholds icon (see below).
Variables Pressing this displays a list that contains any variables added to the Variables table
by the user. Selecting the desired variable enters it into the equation.
Constants Pressing this displays a list that contains any constants added to the Constants
table by the user. Selecting the desired constant enters it into the equation.
Version 2.0 39
Equations Pressing this displays a list that contains any equations that have been created in
this method. Selecting the desired equation enters it into the equation.
Sample Data Pressing this displays a list that contains all of the readings specified by the user in
the Sample Measurement table. Selecting the desired sample data enters it into the
equation.
Symbols Pressing this displays a list containing mathematical symbols and the logic gates
AND and OR. Selecting the desired symbol enters it into the equation.
Numbers Pressing this produces the number entry box that allows the user to directly input
numbers into the equation.
Note: All of the data above appears in the lists as it was inputted in the appropriate table.
After the equation has been inputted the user has two options. If the result is to be viewed as a
number, press the back arrow to return to the Equation Viewer screen. If the result is to be viewed
with a user specified pass/fail limit press Thresholds to set appropriate thresholds for the
measurement.
The first thresholds screen allows the user to input how

many thresholds are required for a result.
With Thresholds set to 3 the screen will display the table

layout shown left. Setting Thresholds to 2 and 1 will reduce
the number of values you can input to 2 and 1,
respectively.
Value Pressing this produces the number entry box that allows the user to directly input
numbers for threshold values.
Name Pressing this allows the user to enter the text that will be displayed for each result
using alphanumeric entry.
Version 2.0 40
Using the example above: A result of 100 will return the answer Position 1, a result of <100 and 50
will return the answer Position 2, a result of <50 and 10 will return the answer Position 3 and a
result of <10 will return the answer Position 4.
Note: When using AND or OR logic in an equation the result will be returned as a binary (1 = true and
0 = false). These can be incorporated into the thresholds by setting the Thresholds to 1, Value to 1
and setting the appropriate names (as the name above value corresponds to 1 this is the response
that will be displayed for true results).
After all of the thresholds have been set, pressing the forward arrow will return the user to the
Equation Builder screen. The Equation Viewer screen can be accessed using the back arrow.
Continue as described above until all equations have been created. Once complete pressing the
forward arrow will take the user to the output options screen below.

Note: Automatically saving sample data with sample

naming set to Prompt for ID or Fixed list will save the
data using the first inputted sample name as the filename.
Version 2.0 41
PERFORMING A MEASUREMENT NO STANDARDS
To perform a measurement, insert a cuvette (or load

reference solution in the cuvette holder and press the
reference icon. Remove and replace with a cuvette
containing the sample (or load sample directly onto the
Lite sample port) and press the take measurement
button. A single reference suffices for subsequent analyses
in the same series.
Note: Pressing on the equation name allows the user to view the equation and the individual
measurement results.
USING STANDARDS
When performing a measurement using a method that

includes standards, the first press of the take measurement
icon will produce a message box that prompts the user to
insert a specific standard. After all standards have been
measured, subsequent presses of the take measurement
icon will perform sample measurements.
SAVING METHODS AND EXITING
As methods developed using Equation Editor may have

taken time to input, the software will prompt the user to
save the method before exiting. Pressing the cross will
return to the user to the results screen, where they can
save the method, pressing the tick will exit without saving.
Details of method saving can be found below in the Saving
Methods section.
SAVING AND PRINTING
Version 2.0 42
LIFE SCIENCE APPLICATIONS
This contains two sub folders; Nucleic Acids and Protein. The contents of these sub folders are
detailed below:
NUCLEIC ACIDS
DNA Utilises the absorbance measurements at 230, 260 & 280 nm with optional
background correction to perform a concentration and purity check for DNA
samples.
RNA Utilises the absorbance measurements at 230, 260 & 280 nm with optional
background correction to perform a concentration and purity check for RNA
samples.
Oligo Utilises the absorbance measurements at 230, 260 & 280 nm with optional
background correction to perform a concentration and purity check for oligo
samples.
Cydye DNA Measures the labelling efficiency of fluorescently labelled DNA probes to ensure that
there is sufficient amount of each probe to give satisfactory signals. The DNA yield is
measured at 260 nm whilst the incorporation of the dyes is measured at the
absorption maxima. This method is also useful for measuring the yields and
brightness of fluorescently labelled in-situ hybridization probes.
TM Calc The Tm Calculation application calculates the theoretical melting point from the
base sequence of a primer. It is done using nearest neighbour thermodynamic data
for each base in the nucleotide chain in relation to its neighbour
PROTEIN
BCA Quantitative determination of protein concentration utilising the absorbance

measurement at 562 nm
Bradford Quantitative determination of protein concentration utilising the absorbance

Lowry Quantitative determination of protein concentration utilising the absorbance

Version 2.0 43
Biuret Quantitative determination of protein concentration utilising the absorbance
Protein UV Direct UV determination of protein concentration at 280 nm using the Christian

Warburg calculation
Protein A280 Direct UV determination of protein concentration using BSA, IgG, Lysozyme, Molar
Extinction. Mass Extinction or E1% calculations
Version 2.0 44
NUCLEIC ACID APPLICATIONS
DNA, RNA & Oligo
Nucleic acids can be quantified at 260 nm because it is well established that solutions of DNA and
RNA in 10 mm pathlength cuvettes with an optical density (absorbance) of 1.0 have concentrations
of 50 g/ml and 40 g/ml, respectively. Oligonucleotides typically have a factor of 33 g/ml,
although this does vary with base composition and can be calculated if the base sequence is known.
Concentration = A260 Factor
BioDrop spectrophotometers use the default factors 50, 40 and 33 for DNA, RNA and
oligonucleotides, respectively. Compensation for dilution and pathlength can also be entered.
The BioDrop TOUCH and the BioDrop Duo is designed for use with the BioDrop CUVETTES. The
BioDrop CUVETTE is available in two pathlength configurations, the BioDrop 125 has a pathlength of
0.125 mm and the BioDrop 500 has a pathlength of 0.5 mm. The BioDrop Lite and Duo harbour a
direct microvolume sample port with a pathlength of 0.5mm which can be selected from the drop-
down menu of the Pathlength list. We recommended the use of the BioDrop 500 for the highest
sensitivity and BioDrop 125 and Lite sample port analysis (0.5mm pathlength) for low volume
samples. Pathlength factors are pre-programmed in the software for quick calculations. For example,
if measuring dsDNA in a BioDrop 125, the calculation would be as follows:
Concentration = A260 50 g/ml x 80
If measuring dsDNA in the BioDrop 500, the calculation would be:
Concentration = A260 x 50 g/ml x 20
NUCLEIC ACID PURITY CHECKS
Nucleic acids extracted from cells are accompanied by proteins and extensive purification is
required to separate these protein impurities. The ratio of A260/A280 gives an indication of a
samples purity, with pure DNA and RNA preparations typically having ratios of 1.8 and 2.0,
respectively. Deviations from these values indicate the presence of impurities, but care must be
taken when interpreting results.
Concentration also affects both the A260 and A280 readings. If a solution is too dilute, the
readings may be at the instruments detection limit and results may vary as there is less
distinction of the A260 peak and A280 slope from the background absorbance. For accurate
measurements A260 should always be greater than 0.1.
Elevated A230 values can also indicate the presence of impurities (230 nm is near the
absorbance maximum of peptide bonds and also indicates buffer contamination since EDTA and
other buffer salts absorb at this wavelength). When measuring RNA samples, the A260/A230
ratio should be >2.0. Ratios lower than 2.0 generally indicate contamination with guanidinium
thiocyanate, a reagent commonly used in RNA purification and which absorbs over the 230 - 260
nm range. A wavelength scan of the nucleic acid is particularly useful for RNA samples.
Version 2.0 45
BACKGROUND CORRECTION
To compensate for the effects of background absorbance caused by turbidity, high absorbance
buffer solutions and the use of reduced aperture cuvettes the BioDrop spectrophotometers have
the option of background correction at a 320 nm.
When used, A320 is subtracted from A260 and A280 prior to use so that:
Concentration = (A260 - A320) Factor
Abs ratio = (A260 - A320) / (A280 - A320)
Abs ratio = (A260 - A320) / (A230 - A320)
The use of background correction can remove variability due to handling effects of low volume
disposable cuvettes.
Spectral scan of nucleic acid
Note: An absorbance maximum near 260 nm and absorbance minimum near 230 nm, a flat peak
near 260 nm and steep slope at 280 nm and very little absorbance at 320 nm
Set Pathlength to match the cuvette being used and Dilution

Factor if required. If using low volume cuvettes set Background
correction to on. Set Units to encompass the expected
concentration of your samples, the default Factor will update
automatically depending on the units selected i.e. for units of
g/ml the default factor will be 50.00. If the Factor required
differs from the default value this can be edited using numeric
entry. The Sample Seed entered under Sample will be the
filename of any saved file.
Version 2.0 46
You may advance to the next screen at any time by pressing the
forward arrow and return to the previous screen by pressing the
back arrow.
Set the outputs required in your method. For more information see the section Saving and Printing.

Lite sample port) and press the take measurement icon. A
single reference suffices for subsequent analyses in the
same series.
If Background is set to On the A320 result will be included in the left hand column and automatically
subtracted from the displayed A230, A260, A280, A260/A230, A260/A280 results.
A scan of the most recently run sample can be viewed by

pressing the View Scan icon in the options menu.
Note: When saving sample data, scan files will not be saved.
The Wavescan application should be used to save scans of
nucleic acid samples.
SAVING & PRINTING
Version 2.0 47
CY DYE DNA
The measurement of the labelling efficiency of fluorescently labelled DNA probes before 2-colour
micro-array hybridization ensures that there is sufficient amount of each probe to give satisfactory
signals. The data also provides an opportunity to balance the relative intensities of each fluorescent
dye by adjusting the concentration of each probe before hybridization. The DNA yield is measured at
260 nm whilst the incorporation of the dyes is measured at the absorption maxima. This method is
also useful for measuring the yields and brightness of fluorescently labelled in-situ hybridization
probes.
Number of Dyes, this can be set to 1 or 2. Dye 1 Name allows

the user to select the dye used in the measurement, the
BioDrop spectrophotometers have 19 dyes pre-programmed
and the option for user entry using the Custom Dye option.
Max, Extinction Coefficient and Correction Factor are only
editable when using the Custom Dye option.
With Number of Dyes set to 2, the next method parameter screen allows the user to specify the
second dye used in the measurement.
If the measurement requires the calculation of DNA

Concentration and/or DNA Quantity the relevant nucleic
acid can be inputted. A custom factor can be entered by
selecting Custom in Nucleic Acids.
This parameters screen allows the user to set the

pathlength of the cuvette being used, whether background
correction is required and at what wavelength, the dilution
factor and volume of the sample in l. All of these will be
used in the calculations. The Sample Seed entered under
Sample will the filename of any saved file.
Version 2.0 48
To perform a measurement, insert a cuvette (or load directly

onto the Lite sample port) containing the reference solution
in the cuvette holder and press the reference button. Remove
and replace with a cuvette containing the sample (or load
sample directly onto the Lite sample port) and press the take
measurement button. A single reference suffices for
subsequent analyses in the same series.
If Background Correction is set to On the Background

Wavelength set in the method will be included in the left
hand column and automatically subtracted from all results.
To toggle between DNA & dye parameters press the toggle

icon on the options menu. Cydye DNA measurements are
wavelength scanning measurements, to view the scan for a
particular measurement press the scan button in the options
menu.
SAVING & PRINTING
Version 2.0 49
TM CALCULATION
The Tm Calculation application calculates the theoretical melting point from the base sequence of a
primer. It is done using nearest neighbour thermodynamic data for each base in the nucleotide chain
in relation to its neighbour (Breslauer et al, Proc.Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 1986, 83, 3746). The data
obtained are useful in both the characterisation of oligonucleotides and in calculating Tm for primers
used in PCR experiments.
The ACGT/U sequence entered in the method parameters is used to calculate the theoretical Tm, the
theoretical absorbance (Absorbance units/mmol) and the conversion factor (mg/ml). This is possible
as the stability of a bent and twisted sequence of bases such as an oligonucleotide is dependent on
the actual base sequence. These calculated thermodynamic interactions between adjacent base
pairs have been shown to correlate well with experimental observations.
The Tm Calculation application uses matrices of known, published thermodynamic values and
extinction coefficients to calculate Tm and the theoretical absorbance/factor of an entered base
sequence.
Tm is calculated using the equation:-
Tm = H 100 - 273.15 + log [salt]

S + (1.987 loge(c/4 +53.0822)
where H and S are the enthalpy and entropy values, respectively summed from
respective 2 4 4 nearest neighbour matrices
c is the Primer concentration of oligonucleotide (pmoles/ml) in the calculated Tm or

the measured concentration in measured Tm. In the latter case, concentration is
obtained from the equation:
c = Abs(260 nm) Calculated factor pathlength multiplier 10 000

MW
Calculated factor and MW are defined below
[salt] is the buffer molarity plus total molarity of salts in the hybridization solution (moles/l)
Weights for S are indexed by adjacent paired bases. A similar equation applies to weights for H,
again indexed by adjacent bases.
Note: Bivalent salts may need normalising using a multiplying factor of 100 because of their greater
binding power.
THEORETICAL ABSORBANCE
The Theoretical Absorbance is based on a calculation as follows:
For each adjacent pair of bases (nearest neighbours) an extinction coefficient weight is accumulated
using a 4 4 table (one for either DNA or RNA). This total weight is doubled and then for each
Version 2.0 50
internal base a counterweight is subtracted using another 1 4 table. The end bases are excluded
from the latter summation.
Total Extinction Coefficient E = (2 aTable[base_type][base(n)][base(n+1)])-

(tTable[base_type][base(n]])
CONVERSION FACTOR
The Conversion Factor is given by = Molecular weight ABCDE

EABCDE
where
EABCDE = [2 (EAB +EBC +ECD +EDE) EB EC ED]
The molecular weight (MW) of a DNA oligonucleotide is calculated from:
MW (g/mole) = [(dA 312.2) + (dC 288.2) + (dG 328.2) + (dT 303.2.)] + [(MWcounter-ion)
(length of oligo in bases)]
(for RNA oligonucleotide, (dT 303.2) is replaced by (dU 298.2)
The MW calculated using this equation must be adjusted for the contribution of the atoms at the 5
and 3 ends of the oligo.
For phosphorylated oligos: Add [17 + (2 MW of the counter-ion)]

For non-phosphorylated oligos: Subtract [61 + (MW of the counter-ion)]
The MW (g/mole) of the most common oligo counter ions are:

Na (sodium) 23.0
K (potassium) 39.1
TEA (triethylammonium) 102.2
Other Defaults to 1.0 (variable 0.1999.9)
Calculated molecular weight: a weight is added for each base looked up from a table. The weight of
the counter ion is added for every base from a small table for the known ions. If phosphorylated,
then the system adds 17.0 plus two counter ions otherwise it subtracts 61.0 and one ion.
Theoretical Absorbance: for each adjacent pair of bases (nearest neighbours) a weight is
accumulated using a table. For each internal base a weight is subtracted using another table.
Separate tables are used for DNA and RNA.
Calculated factor: this is the calculated molecular weight divided by the theoretical absorbance.
Version 2.0 51
Set the required Base Type (DNA/RNA), whether the base is

Phosphorylated, the Primer Concentration (pmoles/ml),
Buffer Molarity and Counter Ion. Counter Ion has options for
Na (sodium), K (potassium), TEA (triethylammonium) and
Other, allowing the user to set the required molecular
weight (MW) of the counter ion.
Set the Pathlength and Integration Time you require. Base

Sequence allows the user to enter the known base sequence
triplets using the buttons A, C, G and T/U. To improve
readability a comma is added after each triplet.
The Sample Seed entered under Sample will the filename of

any automatically saved file.

Version 2.0 52

Lite sample port) and press the take measurement button.
A single reference suffices for subsequent analyses in the
same series.
SAVING & PRINTING
Version 2.0 53
PROTEIN APPLICATIONS
The BioDrop spectrophotometers contain dedicated methods for both colorimetric protein assays
and direct UV measurements.
BCA, BRADFORD, LOWRY & BIURET PROTEIN ASSAYS

The BCA, Bradford, Lowry and Biuret protein assays are well established spectrophotometric
methods for determining the amount of protein in a sample. The exact choice of the assay depends
upon the concentration of protein being measured and the detergents/reducing agents used in
purification. Detailed protocols are supplied with all assay kits and should be followed closely to
ensure accurate results are obtained. An outline of the protein assays offered by the BioDrop TOUCH
is provided below:
Bradford method: Quantifies the binding of the dye Coomassie Brilliant Blue to an unknown
protein and compares this binding to that of different, known
concentrations of a standard protein at 595 nm. The standard protein is
usually bovine serum albumin (BSA).
Biuret method: Depends on reaction between Cu2+ ions and amino acid residues in an alkali
solution. The resulting copper complex absorbs light at 546 nm.
BCA method: Depends on reaction between Cu2+ ions and amino acid residues. In
addition, this method combines this reaction with the enhancement of Cu+
ion detection using bicinchoninic acid (BCA) as a ligand, giving an
absorbance maximum at 562 nm. The BCA process is less sensitive to the
presence of detergents used to break down cell walls.
Lowry method: Depends on quantifying the colour obtained from the reaction of Folin-
Ciocalteu phenol reagent with the Tyrosyl residues of an unknown protein
and comparing with those derived from a standard curve of a standard
protein at 750 nm (usually BSA).
DETERMINATION OF PROTEIN CONCENTRATION USING THE

BICINCHONINIC ACID (BCA) PROTEIN ASSAY
The principle of the bicinchoninic acid (BCA) protein assay relies on the formation of a Cu2+-protein
complex under alkaline conditions, followed by reduction of the Cu2+ to Cu+. The amount of
reduction is proportional to the amount of protein present. BCA forms a purple-blue complex with
Cu+ in alkaline environments, thus providing a basis to monitor the reduction of alkaline Cu2+ by
proteins. The BCA assay can be used to quantify proteins in the concentration range 0.2 to 1.0
mg/ml. It is compatible with many detergents but not compatible with reducing agents such as
dithiothreitol above 1 mM.
GETTING STARTED
It is always advisable to prepare the standard in the same buffer as the sample to minimise any
interference effects. BCA assays are routinely performed at 37 C. Colour development begins
Version 2.0 54
immediately and can be accelerated by incubation at higher temperatures. Higher temperatures
and/or longer incubation times can be used for increased sensitivity.
MATERIALS REQUIRED
Bicinchoninic Acid Kit for Protein Determination

Suitable tubes with caps to hold and mix 2.1 ml samples and to heat at up to 60 C
Plastic disposable cuvettes
Standard protein solution of known concentration (1 mg/ml)
Incubator or block heater to heat sample tubes
PREPARATION OF THE BCA WORKING REAGENT
BCA reagents A and B are available commercially from a number of different sources. Instructions
given here are for the kit supplied by Sigma Aldrich, other methods will be similar. Always refer to
the manufacturers instructions.
1. Mix 50 parts of Reagent A (a solution containing bicinchoninic acid, sodium carbonate,

sodium tartrate and sodium bicarbonate in 0.1N NaOH, pH 11.25) with 1 part of Reagent B
(4% (w/v) CuSO4.5H2O), preparing sufficient reagent for all the standards and samples. 2ml
of working reagent is required for each sample.
2. Mix until the solution is a uniform light green colour. The solution is stable for 1 day.
STANDARD PREPARATION
1. Prepare a series of protein standards ranging in concentration from 0.2 to 1.0 mg/ml such
that the final volume for the assay is 0.1 ml. The BioDrop spectrophotometers can measure
up to 9 standards and up to 3 replicates.
2. Add 2.0 ml of the BCA working reagent to each standard, vortex gently and incubate using
one of the following parameters: 60 C for 15 minutes, 37 C for 30 minutes or room
temperature from 2 hours to overnight.
3. If required, allow the tubes to cool to room temperature.
SAMPLE PREPARATION
1. Prepare the unknown samples as described above ensuring that the final volume is 0.1 ml.
2. Add 2.0 ml of the BCA working reagent to each sample, vortex gently and incubate using one
of the following parameters: 60 C for 15 minutes, 37 C for 30 minutes or room
temperature from 2 hours to overnight.
3. If required, allow the tubes to cool to room temperature.
Version 2.0 55
CREATING A STANDARD CURVE
For BCA measurements Wavelength is set to 562.0 nm.

Integration Time and Sample ID can be set as you wish.
You may advance to the next screen at any time by pressing the
forward arrow and return to the previous screen by pressing the
back arrow.
Set Calibration to Standards, Curve Fit to Zero Regression and

enter Units of mg/ml. The number of standards and replicates
can be set as you wish (for optimum accuracy it is recommended
that the number of standards is 4 and replicates is >1).
Note: With Calibration set to Standards the user is required to prepare and measure standards with
Calibration set to Manual the user inputs both the standard concentrations and absorbances.
Enter the concentration of prepared standards using the

numeric keypad.

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To create the standard curve when using replicates press
the replicates button in the bottom right corner to take you
to the screen shown below. With Replicates off standards
can be measured directly as described below.
Note: After all replicates have been taken for a standard pressing the replicates icon takes the user
to the next standard that was specified in the method.
To create a standard curve, insert the cuvette containing the

containing the first standard/replicate in the series and press
the take measurement icon. A single reference suffices for
standard curve creation.
Continue recording all standards/replicates until the standard curve has been completed. After the
standard curve has been collected press the forward arrow to proceed to the sample measurement
screen.
To ignore any outlying standard measurements press the tick

next in the appropriate row to toggle it to a cross. Any ignored
measurement will be automatically removed from the
standard curve. These can be reinstated by pressing the cross.
Note: Pressing the save method icon before any standards have been measured will save the
method parameters only. Recalling a method containing method parameters only will require the
user to construct a standard curve before measuring samples.
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To perform a measurement, insert the cuvette containing

the reference solution in the cuvette holder and press the
take reference icon. Remove and replace with a cuvette
icon. A single reference suffices for subsequent analyses in
the same series.
To view the standard curve whilst on the sample measurement screen, simply press the View Curve
icon that appears under the options menu.
Note: Saving the method using the Save Method icon that appears on the options menu will save
both the method parameters and the standard curve. Recalling a method containing method
parameters and standard curve allows the user to measure samples directly.
SAVING & PRINTING
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DETERMINATION OF PROTEIN CONCENTRATION USING
DIRECT UV METHODS
The direct UV method of protein determination has a number of advantages over traditional
colorimetric assays in that it does not rely on an external protein standard and the sample is not
consumed in the assay. However the presence of nucleic acid in the protein solution can have a
significant effect due to strong nucleotide absorbance at 280 nm. This can be compensated by
measuring A260 and applying the equation of Warburg and Christian for the protein crystalline yeast
enolase (Equation 1).
Protein concentration (mg/ml) = (1.55 Abs280) (0.76 Abs260) 1
Protein concentration = (Factor 1 Abs280) - (Factor 2 Abs260) 2
The BioDrop spectrophotometers use default A260 and A280 factors of 0.76 and 1.55, respectively.
These factors can be edited so that the equation can be applied to other proteins (Equation 2).
Compensation for background, dilution and pathlength can also be entered.
To customise Equation 2 for a particular protein, the A260 and A280 values should be determined at
known protein concentrations to generate simple simultaneous equations, which, when solved
provides the two coefficients. In cases where Factor 2 is found to be negative, it should be set to
zero since it means there is no contribution to the protein concentration due to absorbance at 260
nm.
The A260/A280 ratio also gives an indication of protein purity; a ratio of 0.57 can be expected for
pure protein samples.
BACKGROUND CORRECTION
To compensate for the effects of background absorbance caused by turbidity, high absorbance
buffer solutions and the use of reduced aperture cuvettes the BioDrop spectrophotometers can
use background correction at a 320 nm.
When used A320 is subtracted from A260 and A280 prior to use so that:
Protein concentration = [Factor 1 (Abs 280 - Abs 320)] - [Factor 2 (Abs 260 - Abs 320)]
Ratio = (Abs 260 - Abs 320) / (Abs 280 - Abs 320)
The use of background correction can remove variability due to handling effects of low volume
disposable cuvettes.
Version 2.0 59
PROTEIN UV
Set Pathlength and Dilution Factor to the required values.

Check above to see if background correction is required. The
default values for A260 Factor and A280 Factor are 0.76 and
1.55, respectively; these can be edited by pressing the
appropriate box. Set Units to encompass the expected
concentration of your samples.
Integration Time can be set as you wish. The Sample Seed

entered under Sample will the filename of any saved file.

To perform a measurement, insert the cuvette containing

the reference solution in the cuvette holder and press the
take reference icon. Remove and replace with a cuvette
Version 2.0 60
icon. A single reference suffices for subsequent analyses in the same series.
subtracted from the displayed A260, A280 and A260/A280 results.
SAVING & PRINTING
Version 2.0 61
PROTEIN A280
Select the Mode you require, the BioDrop

spectrophotometers have options for Christian Warburg,
BSA, IgG, Lysozyme, Molar Extinction, Mass Extinction and
E1% (for Molar Extinction the user will also be required to
enter the molar extinction coefficient, and molecular weight
and atomic units for Mass Extinction).
Set Pathlength and Dilution Factor to the required values.

Check above to see if background correction is required.
Set Units to encompass the expected concentration of your

samples. Integration time can be set as you wish. The
Sample Seed entered under Sample will the filename of any
saved file.


Lite sample port) and press the take measurement button.
A single reference suffices for subsequent analyses in the
same series.
Version 2.0 62
subtracted from the displayed A260, A280 and A260/A280 results.
SAVING & PRINTING
SAVING & PRINTING

The BioDrop spectrophotometers allow users to save and print sample data. This can either be
included automatically as a method parameter or performed manually from the sample
measurement screen.
SAVING SAMPLE DATA
The BioDrop spectrophotometers allow users to save sample data in three different formats:
INTERNAL
The sample data is saved to the instruments internal memory format. See the Sample Manager
section for details on saving and recalling data from the internal memory.
Note: To ensure the optimum performance of the BioDrop TOUCH it is recommended that unwanted
data be deleted from the instruments internal memory at regular intervals.
USB
Version 2.0 63
The sample data is saved to a USB memory stick in format that can be read by BioDrop
spectrophotometers only. Files in this format cannot be opened by Microsoft Excel or similar
programmes.
Note: Sample data will be saved to the BioDrop Samples directory on the USB memory stick; if this
directory is not present it will be created.
Warning when data is being written to the USB memory stick the LED will be lit. DO NOT remove
the memory stick at this stage otherwise data may become corrupted. If you have completed your
set of measurements exit the application which will close the file on the memory stick.
USB CSV
The data is saved to a USB memory stick in comma separated variable (CSV) format allowing it to be
opened directly using Microsoft Excel or other similar programmes. Files in this format cannot be
opened using the instrument.
Note: To view the data displayed in the File Created, Date and Time cells in a recognised format this
will need formatting as described below:
File Created: Right click in the appropriate cell and select Format Cells from the list, select Custom
dd/mm/yyyy h:mm from the list on the right hand side (see below) and select ok.
Date / Time: Right click in the appropriate cell and select Format Cells from the list, under
Category select Date or Time and the desired format from the list on the right hand
side (see below) and select ok.
Version 2.0 64
AUTOMATIC SAVING
The option to save sample data automatically is set under

method parameters. With Auto Save set to on, the save
location can be set to Internal, USB or USB CSV (the USB
options are only available if a USB memory stick is inserted).
The filename given to an automatically saved file will be either the Sample Seed entered in the
method parameters or, if the user chooses not to enter a Sample Seed, Default. The BioDrop TOUCH
will only save one Default file per application; subsequent saves of files without a sample seed will
overwrite the previous default file.
As sample data is saved when the user exits the application removing a USB memory stick before
exiting will result in loss of data.
Note: All files are appended with a unique time and date stamp it is therefore possible to create two
or more files sharing the same name.
Note: With Overlays 2 in Wavescan and Number of Samples 2 in Kinetics the overlaid data will
always be saved automatically to the instruments internal memory.
Warning when data is being written to the USB memory stick the LED will be lit. DO NOT remove
the memory stick at this stage otherwise data may become corrupted. If you have completed your
set of measurements exit the application which will close the file on the memory stick.
MANUAL SAVING
If a method does not require sample data to be saved each time a measurement is taken it is
possible to manually save sample data in one of the formats outlined above. This procedure is
described below:
Version 2.0 65
After collecting all required sample measurements select
save sample data from the options menu on the sample
measurement screen to display the dialogue box shown left.
The save location and filename are set by pressing the Save
to and Sample Name boxes, respectively. If no Sample
Name is entered the file will be titled Default
Note: Any sample data saved manually will override the

auto save function.
EXPORTING DATA
The BioDrop spectrophotometers allow users to recall saved sample data from the internal memory
or a USB memory stick and save this in another format. This is done as follows:
Recall saved data using Sample Manager and press the save sample button on the options menu to
display the save sample dialogue box. Set the desired save location and filename using the Save to
and Sample Name boxes, respectively and press the tick to confirm the data export.
SAMPLE MANAGER
Sample Manager is the application used by the BioDrop spectrophotometers for saving and recalling
data from both the instruments internal memory and the instruments USB format. Sample
Manager can be accessed from either the main screen pressing Sample Manager (below left) or from
within an application using the Sample Manager icon on the options menu (below right).
To recall a saved file, highlight the desired file and press

the Sample Manager icon in the right hand corner of the
screen. Data will be displayed on the Sample Measurement
screen (see Recalled Files below).
With a USB memory stick inserted it is possible to toggle
between the internal and USB memories using the icon in
the left hand corner of the screen. The location of the
displayed data will be indicated by the icon in the top right
hand corner.
Version 2.0 66
Sample Manager has been designed to make finding saved files as simple as possible. Therefore it is
possible to arrange files alphabetically, by application or by date/time saved by pressing the column
headers Sample ID, Application and Date, respectively.
If there are too many saved data files to fit on a single screen this is signified at the top of the screen,
e.g. Page 1 of 2. Scrolling through the screens is achieved using the up and down arrows at the
bottom of the screen.
Note: Sample Manager can only display the first 100 sample data files; if the internal memory or USB
stick contains >100 files these can be viewed be deleting or moving (USB only) unwanted data.
DELETING DATA FROM THE INTERNAL MEMORY
To ensure that the internal memory of the instrument does not contain too many unwanted data
files, Sample Manager allows you to delete files. This can be done in one of three ways:
Deleting a single file: Highlight the file for deletion and press the delete button
Deleting multiple files: Highlight multiple files and press the delete button
Deleting all files: Press the Delete all icon at the bottom of the screen.
Note: It is only possible to delete data using Sample Manager accessed from the main screen.
Sample Manager does not allow a user to delete sample data files from a USB memory stick; this
must be done using a PC.
Sample Manager allows the user to lock files saved to the internal memory to prevent the accidental
deletion of files containing precious data. To lock files, highlight the required data and press the lock
icon at the bottom of the screen. Locked files are signified by the lock icon in the right hand column.
Once a file is locked selecting Delete or Delete All does not clear this data from the instruments
internal memory. To unlock a file, highlight the appropriate locked data and press the lock icon at
the bottom of the screen.
Note: As sample data files saved to a USB memory stick must be deleted using a PC it is not possible
to lock USB sample data using Sample Manager.
To exit from Sample Manager press the Exit icon.
Version 2.0 67
ACCESSING SAMPLE MANAGER FROM THE MAIN SCREEN
When accessed from the main screen Sample Manager will display all files held on the internal
memory or USB memory stick and allows the user to lock and delete files saved to the internal
memory. As Sample Manager accessed from the main screen allows users to delete files from the
instruments internal memory this option is disabled for Limited users.
To allow post scan manipulation of saved wavescan and kinetics data, files loaded from Sample
Manager are loaded directly into Trace Manager (see Trace Manager section for details).
Note: With large numbers of files held on the internal memory there may be a short delay before
Sample Manager opens.
ACCESSING SAMPLE MANAGER FROM WITHIN AN APPLICATION
When accessed from within an application Sample Manager will only display files belonging to that
specific application and only allows users to recall saved data and lock files.
Version 2.0 68
RECALLED FILES
When recalled, sample data files will display the first sample recorded in a measurement. To access
all sample data within a recalled file press the Sample box to display a list of all samples contained
within the file. Pressing on the desired file will populate the boxes on the sample measurement
screen with the saved data. Choosing to measure another sample with an old samples data
displayed simply updates the sample measurement screen and the appropriate boxes.
Note: Wavescan and kinetics sample data is recalled using Trace Manager. For details see the Trace
Manager section for details.
Version 2.0 69
SAVING METHODS
The BioDrop spectrophotometers allow users to store methods to the both the instruments internal
memory and to USB memory sticks. The procedure for saving methods is described below:
After selecting the desired application and setting the

required method parameters select the Save Method icon
from the options menu on the sample measurement
screen. Set the desired file name and save location using
the dialogue box shown below.
Pressing the Folder box produces a list of available save

locations. USB will only appear on the list if a USB memory
stick is inserted.
Pressing the Method Name box allows the user to set the
desired method name using alpha numeric text entry.
Press the tick to save and exit or the cross to exit without
saving.
METHODS SAVED TO THE INTERNAL MEMORY
Methods saved to the instruments internal memory are

stored in either the Methods or Favourites folders, both of
which are accessed via the main screen. The BioDrop
spectrophotometers are capable of storing up to 90
methods on the instruments internal memory.
Version 2.0 70
METHODS FOLDER
The Methods folder is made up of 9 folders each capable of

storing up to 9 methods. The method folder icons have been
designed to give the user an indication of the number of
methods that are stored in that folder.
RENAMING METHOD FOLDERS
Using the Rename Folder icon on the options menu (the left
hand icon) it is possible to rename any of the 9 method
folders using alphanumeric text entry.
LOCKING SAVED METHODS
Using the lock folder icon on the options menu (the centre
icon) it is possible to add pass code protection to any of the
method folders. Locked folders cannot be renamed and are
indicated by a padlock.
Within a methods folder it is possible to add pass codes to

individual methods and to lock them from deletion using the
lock icon on the options menu (the centre icon). Locked
methods can be unlocked by using the unlock icon on the
options menu (the right hand icon), selecting the desired
method and entering the correct pass code.
Version 2.0 71
DELETING SAVED METHODS
Within a methods folder it is possible to delete saved

methods using the delete icon on the options menu (the left
hand icon) and selecting the desired file.
Note: Locked methods must be unlocked to allow deletion.
BACKING UP METHOD FOLDERS TO USB
With a USB stick inserted it is possible to use the USB icon on

the options menu (the right hand icon) to:
Backup Folder: Copies all methods from a specified folder to

a USB memory stick
Restore Folder: Copies a backed up method folder from the

USB memory stick to the internal memory
Backup All Folders: Copies all method folders from the

internal memory to a USB memory stick
Restore All Folders: Copies all backed up method folders

from the USB memory stick to the internal memory
FAVOURITES FOLDER
The Favourites folder is capable of storing up to 9 user

defined methods. Methods stored in the Favourites folder
can be locked and deleted as described above.
Version 2.0 72
SAVING METHODS TO USB
To save files to a USB memory stick follow the procedure

described above and select USB in the Folder box. The USB
option will only appear in the list if a USB memory stick is
inserted.
Methods saved to a USB memory stick will appear in the

BioDrop Methods folder in the root directory.
Note: Although it is possible to save an unlimited number of method files to a USB memory stick
only 9 can be displayed on the instrument at any one time. As these will only be read from the
BioDrop Methods folder, additional files can be stored in other locations.
PRINTING
PRINTING SAMPLE DATA
The BioDrop spectrophotometers allowsusers to print sample data in one of two ways:
Note: Only available printers will be shown in the Print to options box.
INTERNAL PRINTER
Data can be printed to the built in printer when fitted. Data is printed with method header,
instrument serial number, time/date and all sample results. If numerical data is being shown on the
display only this data will be printed, if graphics are displayed on the screen these will be printed as
well as numerical data.
The built in printer is available as an accessory and can easily be fitted to existing instruments see
instructions at the end of this manual.
PRINT VIA COMPUTER (PVC)
Print via Computer (PVC) is an application running under Microsoft Windows to enable the
BioDrop spectrophotometers to transfer data into a PC environment. From there the data can be
printed or saved in a variety of formats, including graphics and text formats or as an Excel file. PVC
can store data either to a common directory or be configured to save to independent directories by
both file format and instrument serial number.
PVC is capable of supporting several instruments simultaneously, limited only by hardware and the
speed of the host system and operates via USB cable.
Installation and operating instructions for PVC can be found on the CD-ROM for the respective
BioDrop spectrophotometer.
Version 2.0 73
AUTOMATIC PRINTING
The option to print sample data automatically is set under

method parameters. With Auto Print set to on, the print
location can be set to one of the available options.
MANUAL PRINTING
If a method does not require sample data to be printed

each time a measurement is taken it is possible to manually
print sample data. This procedure is described below:
Set the desired print location in Print to After collecting all

required sample measurements select the Print icon from
the options menu on the sample measurement screen.
Version 2.0 74
Built in Printer Installation Guide
This section outlines the method of how to install a built in printer on a BioDrop TOUCH.
A B
Turn the instrument over and place on a soft surface and screws from positions A and B.
Turn the instrument back over and lift the accessory cover vertically upwards to remove. Remove
the tie-wrap from the printer cable
Plug the accessory cable into the printer noting the alignment lug
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Place the accessory cover on top of the printer and then lower the printer onto the locating bosses
and push down firmly.
Bosses
Invert the instrument and replace the accessory cover s screws at A and B and add the printer
mounting screws at positions C & D
C D
A B
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Set the built in printer by pressing Settings and Data
Output icons.
Built in Printer Refilling the Printer Paper
Lift off the paper cover
Place paper roll into printer with

paper feeding from bottom. Feed
printer into slot and turn knob to
feed paper.
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Replace paper cover
Version 2.0 78
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Parameter BioDrop TOUCH BioDrop TOUCH PC BioDrop Lite BioDrop Duo
5.7 colour display with 5.7 colour display with capacitive touch
Display None panel
capacitive touch panel
Configuration Split Beam
Lamp Pulsed Xenon lamp with 3 year warranty
Wavelength Range 190nm-1100nm
Wavelength Accuracy 2nm
Wavelength
1nm
Reproducibility
Spectral Bandwidth 5nm
Stray Light <0.5%T at 220nm and 340nm Using NaNO2
Photometric Range -0.3A to 2.5A, 0 to 199%T
Photometric Accuracy 0.005A or 1% of the reading, whichever is greater at 546nm
Photometric
0.003A (0 to 0.5A), 0.007A(0.5 to 1.0A)
Reproducibility
Noise 0.005A peak to peak, 0.002A RMS
Power Input 90-250V, 50/60 Hz, Max 50VA
Dimensions 420 x 260 x 185 mm
Weight Approx. 3kg
DNA, RNA, Oligo,

Dye Labelling, Tm
DNA, RNA, Oligo, Dye Labelling, calculation, direct DNA, RNA, Oligo, Dye Labelling, Tm
Resolution Life
Tm calculation, direct UV and UV and colorimetric calculation, direct UV and colorimetric
Science Software
colorimetric protein methods protein methods, protein methods
cell density
measurement
English, French, English, French,

English, French, German, German, Spanish German, Spanish
Languages English
Spanish
Version 2.0 79
TABLE OF ICONS
ICON TITLE FUNCTION
Back arrow Returns the user to the previous screen.
Forward arrow Advances the next screen in a sequence.
Displays the relevant options menu, the exact content of

Open options menu
the menu will depend upon the location.
Page down Allows the user to navigate to the next page
Page up Allows the user to navigate to the previous page
Used in the wavescan and kinetics applications to move

the cursor left. The position of the cursor and the
Cursor left
corresponding x and y values are displayed above the
scan.
Used in the wavescan and kinetics applications to move

cursor right. The position of the cursor and the
Cursor right
corresponding x and y values are displayed above the
scan.
When used in the Cydye DNA application this toggles the

Toggle data viewed
data displayed between DNA and dye data. Under
/ reset
Instrument Settings this will resets a value.
Deletes all saved data/methods. Delete all is a two stage

Delete all
process.
Deletes the highlighted data/method. Delete is a two

Delete
stage process
Version 2.0 80
Used in Equation Editor. This allows users to add
Thresholds
thresholds (pass/fail) limits to their results.
Ok / accept Used to confirm / accept any changes.
Exits from an application or screen. If exit is selected

Exit
without saving, any changes will be lost.
Locks sample data file/method folder against accidental

Lock
deletion.
Unlock Unlocks a locked method folder.
Used in Sample Manager to access sample data files

stored on the instrument's internal memory or to
Instrument
indicate that the data being displayed is from the internal
memory.
Used in the kinetics applications to view a line of best fit

Add linear section
on the scan.
Used in kinetics applications to view data in a specific

Section
section. It is possible to add t0 through to t7.
Methods saved internally can be stored in one of nine

Method folder method folders (each capable of storing up to nine
individual methods).
Rename method Accessed via the options menu on the methods screen,
folder this allows the method folder to be renamed.
Version 2.0 81
Used in the nucleic acid applications DNA, RNA and Oligo
Toggle view scan on
this allows the user to view a survey scan of the last
or off
sample run (in the region 220 - 320 nm).
Toggle auto print on Accessed via the options button on the sample screen.
or off Pressing this button toggles auto print on and off.
Accessed via the options button on the sample

View method
measurement screen. Pressing this button takes the user
parameters
back to the method parameters.

Print data measurement screen. Pressing this button prints the
sample data.

Save method
measurement screen. This allows a method to be saved
parameters
to a location specified by the user.

Save sample data measurement screen. This allows sample data to be
saved to a location specified by the user.

measurement screen. Displays the sample data held in
Sample Manager
the either the internal memory or on a USB memory
stick.
Accessed via instrument settings. This displays

Instrument
instrument information such as product name, serial
Information
number etc.
Accessed via instrument settings. This allows the user to

Instrument Settings set the default bandwidth, save new baselines and view
the date of the last service.
Lamp Settings Accessed via instrument settings.
Version 2.0 82
Save instrument Accessed via instrument settings. This saves the
options instrument options.
Displayed on the status bar. This indicates that the

Auto print - internal
instrument will automatically print all sample data to the
printer
internal printer

Auto print - USB instrument will automatically print all sample data via
PVC.
Displayed on the status bar. This indicates that the xenon

Xenon lamp failed
lamp has failed.

Instrument busy
instrument is performing a measurement.
Printing to internal Displayed on the status bar. This indicates that the
printer instrument is printing to the internal printer.

Printing to USB
instrument is printing via PVC.
When used in standard curve applications i.e. Lowry

Toggle view
protein assay, this toggles the sample measurement
standard curve
screen to display or hide the standard curve.
Used in standard curve applications to collect data from a

Replicates
group of replicates.
Commences a sample measurement. A reference

Take sample
measurement must be taken prior to a sample
measurement
measurement
Take reference
Commences a reference measurement.
measurement
Version 2.0 83
Used in text entry mode to move the cursor backwards
Backspace / delete
(left) and delete any unwanted characters.
Used in text entry mode to move the cursor forwards

Forward space
(right).
Lower case Selects lower case letters when in text entry mode.
Symbols Selects symbols when in text entry mode.
Upper case Selects upper case letters when in text entry mode.
Numeric Selects numeric entry when in text entry mode.
Used in the wavescan and kinetics applications. This

allows the user to overlay up to 8 samples data files and
Trace Manager
to choose what type of data is displayed i.e. raw data,
smoothed data, 1st derivative.
Used on the Sample Manager screen to access data

stored on a USB memory stick. Used in the options menu
USB
in the methods folder to allow the user to backup
methods to a USB memory stick.
Displayed under User Access, this allows anyone with

Add user Administrator privileges to add another user to the
instrument.

Delete user Administrator privileges to delete users from the
instrument.

Edit user Administrator privileges to edit currently users'
parameters.

Zoom in
allows the user to zoom into a specific region of a scan.
Version 2.0 84
Zoom out allows the user to zoom out and return to the original
scan.
GLOSSARY OF BOXES
BOX FUNCTION
Toggles between on and off. Used in all applications

to set whether sample data is printed automatically
or not
Toggles between on and off. Used in all applications

to set whether sample data is saved automatically
or not
Can be toggled on and off. Used in nucleic acid and

protein measurements to subtract the absorbance
value at 320 nm. This is done to allow for the effects
of turbidity, high absorbance buffer solutions and
the use of reduced aperture cuvettes.
Set by numeric entry. Used in Cydye DNA

measurements only and enables the user to specify
the wavelength of background correction.
Used in Tm calculation to set the sequence of bases.

The bases A, C, G, T can be added in DNA mode and
the bases A, C, G, U can be added in RNA mode.
Bases are grouped in threes to improve readability.
Used in Tm calculation to toggle between DNA and

RNA base types.
Used in User Interface in Settings to set the

brightness of the screen.
Version 2.0 85
Numeric entry, used in Tm calculation only.
Buffer molarity = buffer molarity + total molarity of
salt (moles / L).
Used in all standard curve applications to set the

method used to collect the standard curve. Options
are for Standards or Manual.
Set by numeric entry, used in the Cydye DNA

application only. This is the correction factor applied
to the absorbance of the dye at a specified
wavelength.
Used in Tm calculation only this allows the user to

add the type of counter ion used. The options are
sodium (Na), potassium (K), triethylammonium
(TEA) or other. If other is selected the molecular
weight of this counter ion must be added using
Other MW.
Used in all standard curve applications this is the

curve fit that will be applied to the standards'
absorbance values. Options are Zero Regression,
Regression, Interpolation and Cubic Spline.
Alphanumeric entry for custom dye name, used in

Cydye DNA only.
Numeric entry. This is the delay required before a

kinetic measurement commences.
Numeric entry. This is used in nucleic acid and

protein applications to compensate for the
absorbance of highly concentrated samples.
Used in wavescan only, this switches display of peak

cursors on and off. Peak cursors show vertical
dashed lines displaying the measured peak height
and horizontal dashed lines showing the peak width
Version 2.0 86
Numeric entry. This is the duration over which a
kinetic measurement is performed.
Used in Cydye DNA application only. This is the first

dye type used in the measurement.
Used in Cydye DNA application only. This is the

second dye type used in the measurement (where
applicable).
Numeric entry for Cydye DNA application only. This

is the extinction coefficient of the specified dye.
Note for dyes included in the BioDrop software
these values are not editable and the box will be
greyed out.
Numeric entry to 3 decimal places. In concentration

and nucleic acid measurements multiplying
absorbance readings by this factor gives the
concentration value. In kinetic measurements the
result is calculated by multiplying this factor by
absorbance, delta absorbance or the slope.
Used in wavescan measurements only. This

determines the sensitivity of the peak or valley
detection i.e. sensitive will detect more peaks or
valleys than course. Options are; Off, Coarse,
Sensitive or Custom (when custom is selected the
minimum peak height and width must be entered).
Toggles between wavelength and absorbance, used

in wavescan measurements only. This determines
how features will be ordered in the peak/valley
table below the scan.
Toggles between peaks and valleys, used in

wavescan measurements only. This determines
what feature type will be detected.
Used in User Access to set the group a user will

belong to and what access they will be granted.
Version 2.0 87
Used in all applications. This is the duration the
instrument will take a reading at an individual
wavelength. The longer the integration time, the
greater the signal to noise ratio and the greater the
accuracy.
Numeric entry. This is the interval at which serial

kinetics readings will be taken.
Numeric entry. This is the upper limit of a wavescan

measurement.
Numeric entry. This is the lower limit of a wavescan

measurement. Note that when using the BioDrop
TOUCH the max wavelength must always be greater
than the min wavelength by at least the step value.
Used in the Single Wavelength, Kinetics and Protein

A280 applications to set the required measurement
mode.
Used in Cydye DNA application only, this sets the

nucleic acid used in the measurement.
Toggles between 1 and 2. Used in Cydye DNA

application only to set the number of dyes used in
the measurement.
Numeric entry. This option is only used if the

counter ion type in the Tm calculation is set to
Other.
Used in User Access to set a password for new users
Used in the nucleic acid applications, Protein A280

and Protein UV. This is the pathlength of the cuvette
used in the measurement. Options are for 10mm,
5mm, 2mm, 1mm, BioDrop500, BioDrop125 and
Lite 0.5 mm.
Version 2.0 88
Toggles between yes and no. Used in Tm calculation
to set if the sample to be measured is
phosphorylated or not.
Numeric entry to 3 decimal places. Used in Tm

calculation to sets the primer concentration in
pmole/mL.
Used in all applications to set the desired print

location. Only available printers are displayed.
Toggles between On and Off, used in Equation

Editor only. With Prompt on the measurement will
proceed as follows: measure wavelength 1, prompt
for sample, measure wavelength 2, prompt for
sample etc.
Used in all standard curve applications. This is the

number of times a standard measurement is
repeated before the mean of these values is plotted
on the standard curve. Options are off (1
measurement), 2 or 3.
Used in wavescan measurements, this determines

how many samples will be overlaid on the graph.
Options are off, 2 to 8.
Used in kinetic measurements, this sets the number

of samples that will be measured during the
method. Options are 1, 2 or 3.
Used in all applications to set the desired save

location. Only available locations are displayed.
Used in User Interface in Settings to set the time

before the BioDrop screensaver will be displayed
Used by the Default Administrator in User Access to

set if user login will be displayed or not.
Version 2.0 89
Used in all standard curve applications. This is the
number of standards that will be used to create the
standard curve; options are from 1 to 9.
Numeric entry to 2 decimal places. Used in all

standard curve applications this is the concentration
of the standard.
Used in User Interface in Settings to set the text

entry mode used for alphanumeric text entry.
Used in applications where a concentration is the

end result. Units are entered via either
alphanumeric entry or from a list of options.
Used in User Access when creating a new user.
Numeric entry to 3 decimal places, this is used in

the Cydye DNA application and is the volume of the
probe in L.
Numeric entry to 1 decimal place and is used in all

fixed wavelength applications to determine the
wavelength at which the measurement will be
performed.
Numeric entry to 1 decimal place. Used in the Cydye

DNA application, this is the wavelength at which the
absorbance of the dye will be measured. Note for
dyes included in the BioDrop software these values
are not editable and this box will be greyed out.
Numeric entry to 3 decimal places. This is the

maximum value of the Y axis shown during a
kinetics measurement. Note the graph will
automatically rescale at the end of the
measurement to give the optimum Y max.
Version 2.0 90
Numeric entry to 3 decimal places. This is the
minimum value of the Y axis shown during a kinetics
measurement. Note the graph will automatically
rescale at the end of the measurement to give the
optimum Y min.
Version 2.0 91

Denville BioDrop Spectrophotometers User Manual V2

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#1005369 #1005366 #1005363

BioDrop TOUCH / TOUCH PC/ Lite/ Duo

www.densci.com info@densci.com Fax 908.757.7551

Version 2.0 iii

2006/95/EC Low voltage equipment safety directive

Standards, to which conformity is declared include:

EN61010-1:2010 Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control

Hazards and Warnings

This instrument is subject to the following identified hazards:

USB connector for PC connection 18V power supply connector

USB connector for USB memory stick

BioDrop Lite sample port

The BioDrop Duo harbours a sample port and a

Note: Simultanoeus analysis using the

Switch on the unit and allow it to finish its start up calibration.

If the equipment is operated in a manner not specified, then the protection

Problem Possible Cause

Contacts and Technical Support

Service, Repair or Return

USE WITH BIODROP RESOLUTION PC SOFTWARE

ICON NAME FUNCTION

Forward arrow Advances to the next screen in a sequence

Back arrow Returns to the previous screen in a sequence

Tick Confirms selection/entry. Saves and exits

Cross/exit Exit without saving

ICONS ON THE SAMPLE MEASUREMENT SCREEN

Take reference Performs a reference measurement

Take measurement Performs a sample measurement

Opens the options menu on the sample

ICONS ON THE OPTIONS MENU

Takes the user from the sample measurement

Allows the user to manually save sample data to a

Allows the user to save the current method

Print Prints the sample data from the specified printer

Toggles auto print on and off green surround =

Sample Manager Accesses Sample Manager

First time powered on

The BioDrop spectrophotometer will arrive with the

To save any alterations press the tick, to exit without saving

DATE & TIME

The BioDrop spectrophotometer will arrive with the UK time

Alphanumeric Text Entry

The alphanumeric text entry box allows the user to enter

Note: The layout of the screen is dependent on the text

Selection list/Combination Box

DATE & TIME

The BioDrop spectrophotometer will arrive with the UK time

The BioDrop spectrophotometer will arrive with the

To save any alterations press the tick, to exit without saving

This is the default saving and printing settings that will be

Allows the user to set the desired brightness level of the

Instrument information displays the serial number, user-

Lamp settings displays the current lamp status

To exit at any time press the exit button located in the

The BioDrop spectrophotometer has an option to assign

Note: The User access icon is only available to users who

Each user is given a user name (using alphanumeric entry),

Note: It is not possible to delete the default administrator account.

To disable user logins and user access, highlight the default

Note: With Show Login set to No the instrument will not