IFU HydroFlex English V1 1

TECAN
Instructions for Use for
HydroFlex Platform
Document Part No.: 30026397

2007-02
Document Revision No.: 1.1
Firmware Level: 1.x
TECAN
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2 Instructions for Use for HydroFlex Platform No. 30026397 Rev. No. 1.1 2007-02
TECAN
WARNING
CAREFULLY READ AND FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS PROVIDED IN
THIS DOCUMENT BEFORE OPERATING THE INSTRUMENT.
Notice
Every effort has been made to avoid errors in text and diagrams; however,
Tecan Austria GmbH assumes no responsibility for any errors that may appear in
this publication.
It is the policy of Tecan Austria GmbH to improve products as new techniques
and components become available. Tecan Austria GmbH therefore reserves the
right to change specifications at any time with appropriate validation, verification,
and approvals.
We would appreciate any comments on this publication.
Manufacturer
Tecan Austria GmbH
Untersbergstrasse 1A
A-5082 Grödig/ Salzburg
AUSTRIA / EUROPE
T: +43 6246 8933
F: +43 6246 72 770
www.tecan.com
E-mail: office.austria@tecan.com
Copyright Information
The contents of this document are the property of Tecan Austria GmbH and are
not to be copied, reproduced, or transferred to another person or persons without
our prior written permission.
Copyright © Tecan Austria GmbH
All rights reserved.
Printed in Austria.
Declaration for EU Certificate

Provided upon request where appropriate.
Intended Use of Instrument

See chapter 2.2.1 HydroFlex Platform Intended Use
About the Instructions for Use (IFU)

This document describes the HydroFlex Platform, designed to wash microplates
and to perform vacuum filtration, when this option is installed.
It contains instruction for the use of the instrument and is intended as a reference
for the user. It contains information about the following:
1. Installing the instrument
2. Operating the instrument
3. Programming of wash procedures
4. Defining of wash parameters
5. Cleaning and maintenance procedures
2007-02 Instructions for Use for HydroFlex Platform No. 30026397 Rev. No. 1.1 3
TECAN
Warnings, Cautions and Notes

The following types of notices are used in this publication to highlight important
information or to warn the user of a potentially dangerous situation:
Note
Gives helpful information.
Caution
Indicates a possibility of instrument damage or data loss if instructions
are not followed.
WARNING
INDICATES THE POSSIBILITY OF SEVERE PERSONAL INJURY, LOSS
OF LIFE OR EQUIPMENT DAMAGE IF THE INSTRUCTIONS ARE NOT
FOLLOWED.
WARNING
THIS SYMBOL INDICATES THE POSSIBLE PRESENCE OF
BIOLOGICALLY HAZARDOUS MATERIAL.
PROPER LABORATORY SAFETY PRECAUTIONS MUST BE OBSERVED.
ATTENTION
NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE
TREATMENT OF WASTE.
z DO NOT TREAT ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
AS UNSORTED MUNICIPAL WASTE.
z COLLECT WASTE ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
SEPARATELY.
Symbols
Manufactured by
Indicates the possible presence of biologically hazardous material.
Indicates the possible presence of a strong magnetic field.
TECAN
Abbreviations
Abbreviation
A Ampere
°C Degrees Celsius
CE Conformité Européenne
cm Centimeter
CV Coefficient of Variation
ELISA Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay
EN European Norm: a voluntary European standard of the
European Committee for Standardization or Comité Européen
de Normalisation (CEN)
°F Degrees Fahrenheit
hPa Hectopascal
Hz Hertz
IEC International Electrotechnical Commission
IFU Instructions for Use
in. Inch
inHg Inches of mercury
IVD In vitro diagnostics
IVD-D In vitro diagnostics Directive
kg Kilogram
l; L Liter
m Meter
mBar Millibar
ml Milliliter
mm Millimeter
mS Millisiemens
µl Microliter
PC Process Control (HydroFlex Option)
PCR Polymerase Chain Reaction
ppm Parts per million
QC Quality Control
REF Reference number/ Order number
s Second
SN Serial number
T Träge (Slow Blow Fuse)
torr Torr – millimeter of mercury (mmHg)
TYPE Name and type of instrument
USB Universal Serial Bus
V Volt
VA Volt ampere
WEEE Waste electrical and electronic equipment
TECAN
Table of Contents
1. Safety
1.1 Instrument Safety .......................................................................... 1-1
2. General
2.1 Introduction.................................................................................... 2-1
2.2 Area of Application........................................................................ 2-2
2.2.1 HydroFlex Platform Intended Use.................................................... 2-2
2.2.2 HydroFlex Platform Configurations and Options.............................. 2-2
2.3 Instrument Specifications............................................................. 2-4
2.4 Instrument Description ................................................................. 2-6
2.4.1 Rear Panel Connections .................................................................. 2-7
2.4.2 Liquid System Diagram.................................................................... 2-8
2.5 HydroFlex Platform Options ......................................................... 2-8
2.5.1 Vacuum Filtration ............................................................................. 2-9
2.5.2 Process Control (PC) ..................................................................... 2-11
2.5.3 Liquid Level Detection (LLD).......................................................... 2-12
2.5.4 Magnetic Bead ............................................................................... 2-13
2.6 Microplate Requirements............................................................ 2-13
3. Installation
3.1 Installation Requirements............................................................. 3-1
3.1.1 Required Working Area.................................................................... 3-1
3.1.2 Power Requirements ....................................................................... 3-1
3.2 Unpacking and Inspection ............................................................ 3-1
3.2.1 Unpacking and Inspection Checklist ................................................ 3-2
3.3 Installation Procedure ................................................................... 3-4
3.3.1 Connection Diagram ........................................................................ 3-5
3.3.2 Fitting and Connecting the Liquid Leve Detection
(LLD) (Optional)............................................................................... 3-6
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Switching the Instrument On........................................................ 4-1
4.2 Instrument Firmware ..................................................................... 4-2
4.2.1 Instrument Firmware Menus ............................................................ 4-2
4.3 Operating Instructions .................................................................. 4-6
4.3.1 Performing a Wash Procedure......................................................... 4-6
4.4 Wash Modes................................................................................... 4-7
4.5 Washing Positions ........................................................................ 4-7
4.6 Aspirating Modes .......................................................................... 4-8
4.7 Drip Mode ....................................................................................... 4-9
4.8 End of Operation ......................................................................... 4-11
4.8.1 Instrument Left Switched On.......................................................... 4-11
4.8.2 Instrument Switched Off................................................................. 4-12
TECAN
5. Programming Procedure
5.1 Introduction.................................................................................... 5-1
5.2 Program Menu ............................................................................... 5-2
5.2.1 Starting a Program (Start Menu)...................................................... 5-3
5.2.2 Define/Edit a Program (Define/Edit Menu)....................................... 5-4
5.2.3 Process Step: Aspirate .................................................................... 5-5
5.2.4 Process Step: Dispense................................................................... 5-6
5.2.5 Process Step: Wash ........................................................................ 5-7
5.2.6 Process Step: Soak ......................................................................... 5-8
5.2.7 Process Step: Vacuum Filtration...................................................... 5-8
5.3 Show Program ............................................................................... 5-9
5.4 Clear Program.............................................................................. 5-10
6. Settings Menu
6.1 Introduction.................................................................................... 6-1
6.1.1 Edit Plates........................................................................................ 6-1
6.1.2 Options Submenu ............................................................................ 6-2
6.1.3 Bubble Sensor ................................................................................. 6-3
6.2 Procedures Menu .......................................................................... 6-4
6.2.1 Rinse................................................................................................ 6-4
6.2.2 Prime................................................................................................ 6-4
6.2.3 Empty Prime Tray ............................................................................ 6-4
6.2.4 Vacuum Filtration ............................................................................. 6-5
7. Performance Testing/ Quality Control .................................... 7-1

8. Maintenance and Cleaning
8.1 Rinsing ........................................................................................... 8-1
8.1.1 Rinse Menu...................................................................................... 8-1
8.2 Priming ........................................................................................... 8-4
8.3 Cleaning Procedures..................................................................... 8-6
8.3.1 Cleaning the Cover and Display ...................................................... 8-6
8.3.2 Cleaning the Liquid System ............................................................. 8-7
8.4 Liquid or Foam Spills .................................................................... 8-8
8.5 Preventive Maintenance Plan ....................................................... 8-9
8.5.1 Daily ................................................................................................. 8-9
8.5.2 Weekly ............................................................................................. 8-9
8.5.3 Every Six Months ........................................................................... 8-10
8.5.4 Yearly (Service Engineer Required) .............................................. 8-10
8.6 Replacing the Manifold ............................................................... 8-11
8.6.1 General Description of the Manifold............................................... 8-12
8.6.2 Removing the Manifold (without Process Control)......................... 8-13
8.6.3 Removing the Manifold (with Process Control).............................. 8-14
8.6.4 Installing the Manifold (without Process Control)........................... 8-16
8.6.5 Installing the Manifold (with Process Control)................................ 8-17
8.7 Replacing the Plate Carrier......................................................... 8-19
TECAN
8.8 Instrument Disinfection .............................................................. 8-20

8.8.1 Disinfection Procedure................................................................... 8-21
8.9 Disposal of Instrument................................................................ 8-23
8.9.1 Introduction .................................................................................... 8-23
8.9.2 Disposal of Packing Material.......................................................... 8-23
8.9.3 Disposal of Operating Material....................................................... 8-24
8.9.4 Disposal of the HydroFlex Platform ............................................... 8-24
9. Trouble Shooting and Error Messages

9.1 Errors.............................................................................................. 9-1
9.2 Error Messages.............................................................................. 9-1
9.2.1 Standard Instrument: Error Messages ............................................. 9-1
9.2.2 Liquid Level Detection: Error Messages .......................................... 9-2
9.2.3 Process Control: Error Messages .................................................... 9-4
9.2.4 Vacuum Filtration: Error Message ................................................... 9-5
Index
TECAN 1. Safety
1. Safety
1.1 Instrument Safety
1. Always follow basic safety precautions when using this product to reduce
the risk of injury, fire, or electrical shock.
2. Read and understand all information in the IFU. Failure to read,
understand, and follow the instructions may result in damage to the
product, injury to operating personnel or poor instrument performance.
3. Observe all Warning and Caution notices in the IFU (see Warnings,
Cautions and Notes on page 4 for a description of the notices used in this
document).
4. Never open the HydroFlex Platform while the instrument is plugged into a
power source.
5. Observe proper laboratory safety precautions, such as wearing protective
clothing and using approved laboratory safety procedures.
Note
Suitable Compact Microplates
The HydroFlex Platform supports the processing of flat, round, or
v-shaped bottom microplates in 96-well format typically used for EIA,
which conform to the standard defined by the Society of Biomolecular
Screening. Filtration plates (including deep-well microplates) can only
be used with the HydroFlex Vacuum Filtration Station. Other plate types
in 96-well format such as deep-well plates and PCR-plates cannot be
used with the HydroFlex Platform.
Caution
Be careful when using strip plates that the strips are positioned
in the microplate as defined in the program used for plate washing,
otherwise spilling can occur and the instrument
may become contaminated. (see 4.4 Wash Modes
and 5.2.2 Define/Edit a Program (Define/Edit Menu)).
Note
Suitable Strip Plates
To achieve proper wash-performance with strip plates ensure that:
• All strips have been properly inserted into the frame of the strip-plate
to give a level surface;
• The number of strips used, matches the type of manifold used (8-way
manifold: use minimum of one strip, 16-way manifold: use minimum
of two strips);
• The current position of the strips within a strip plate matches the
position of the strips as defined in program used for plate washing.
See chapter 5.2.2 Define/Edit a Program (Define/Edit Menu).
2007-02 Instructions for Use for HydroFlex Platform No. 30026397 Rev. No. 1.1 1-1
1. Safety TECAN
WARNING
TO ENSURE PROPER WASH PERFORMANCE IT IS MANDATORY TO
ADJUST THE HYDROFLEX PLATFORM TO THE TYPE /
MANUFACTURER OF MICROPLATE OR STRIP-PLATE USED. THIS
ALSO APPLIES FOR ANY PRE-DEFINED PLATE FILE, THAT WILL
ALWAYS CONTAIN AVERAGE PLATE PARAMETERS ONLY, THAT
HAVE TO BE VERIFIED WITH THE CORRESPONDING PLATE TYPE AND
IF NECESSARY CORRECTED BEFORE PUTTING THE HYDROFLEX
PLATFORM INTO USE.
IF THIS ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURE IS NOT PERFORMED PROPERLY,
THIS MIGHT RESULT IN HIGH LEVELS OF RESIDUAL VOLUME PER
WELL, AS WELL AS INSUFFICIENT WASHING OF THE WELLS AND MAY
SERIOUSLY AFFECT ASSAY PERFORMANCE.
FOR DETAILS ON HOW TO ADJUST THE HYDROFLEX PLATFORM TO
THE TYPE OF MICROPLATE OR STRIP-PLATE USED, SEE CHAPTER
6 SETTINGS MENU IN THIS MANUAL.
WARNING
WASTE BOTTLE – LIQUID LEVEL
MAKE SURE THAT THE LIQUID LEVEL OF THE WASTE BOTTLE IS
ALWAYS KEPT BELOW THE MAXIMUM LEVEL INDICATED ON THE
BOTTLE TO AVOID POTENTIAL OVERFLOW. AS THE CONTENTS OF
THE WASTE BOTTLE ARE POTENTIALLY INFECTIOUS; WEAR
PROTECTIVE CLOTHING (GLOVES, LAB COAT AND SAFETY GLASSES)
WHEN EMPTYING / HANDLING A WASTE BOTTLE (SEE 0 CLEANING
WASTE BOTTLES).
INQUIRE ABOUT APPROPRIATE COLLECTING POINTS AND APPROVED
METHODS OF DISPOSAL IN YOUR COUNTRY, STATE OR REGION.
Note
For online monitoring of liquid levels in liquid bottles and waste bottle,
an optional Liquid Level Detection system is available for the HydroFlex
Platform. If the “Vacuum Filtration Station” option is used with the
instrument, an additional liquid level detection for the “Vacuum Waste”
is available. See chapter 6.1.2 Options for further information.
TECAN 1. Safety
WARNING
WHEN USING WASH BUFFERS THAT SHOW A STRONG TENDENCY OF
FOAMING, EMPTY THE WASTE BOTTLE AS SOON AS THE FOAM-
LEVEL HAS REACHED THE MAXIMUM FILLING LEVEL INDICATED ON
THE WASTE BOTTLE. ADDITIONALLY, ADD A COMMERCIALLY
AVAILABLE ANTI-FOAMING AGENT (SUCH AS SILICONE OIL) TO THE
EMPTY WASTE BOTTLE TO REDUCE FOAMING.
IF FOAMING CONTINUES TO BE A PROBLEM, WE RECOMMEND
SWITCHING TO A LARGER WASTE BOTTLE (NOT PROVIDED WITH THE
HYDROFLEX PLATFORM) AND ADDITIONALLY INCREASE THE
CONCENTRATION OF ANTI-FOAMING AGENT IN THE WASTE BOTTLE.
TO HELP FACILITATE BREAKDOWN OF THE FOAM IN THE WASTE
BOTTLE, CAREFULLY SWIRL THE WASTE BOTTLE FROM TIME-TO-
TIME TO IMPROVE MIXING BETWEEN FOAM LAYER AND ANTI-
FOAMING AGENT.
REFILL ANTI-FOAMING AGENT AFTER EMPTYING WASTE BOTTLE.
FOR EXAMPLE, WHEN USING THE WACKER ANTI-FOAM EMULSION
SE47 (WACKER ARTICLE CODE 21640582), THE RECOMMENDED
CONCENTRATION IS 1ML OF ANTIFOAMING AGENT FOR 1 LITER OF
WASTE SOLUTION.
FOR ANTIFOAMING AGENTS FROM OTHER MANUFACTURERS, USE
CONCENTRATIONS AS RECOMMENDED BY CORRESPONDING
MANUFACTURERS.
TECAN 2. General
2. General
2.1 Introduction
The HydroFlex Platform is an instrument for strip-wise processing of microplates
in the 96-well format. The instrument is designed for professional use only and
should only be operated by trained personnel.
Caution
The wash results obtained with the HydroFlex Platform are influenced
by the correct use of the instrument, according to the instructions given
in this IFU, as well as the liquid compounds used (reagents, wash buffer,
chemical components). The instructions for use, storage, and other
handling in connection with samples or reagents must be strictly
followed. Taking these facts into consideration, results must be
interpreted carefully.
Caution
Before the instrument is installed and switched on
it should be left to stand for at least three hours, so there is
no possibility of condensation causing a short circuit.
Caution
Before washing procedures are started, make sure that the microplate
position A1 is inserted correctly.
2. General TECAN
2.2 Area of Application

2.2.1 HydroFlex Platform Intended Use
The HydroFlex Platform is intended for professional use only. The instrument is a
general purpose laboratory instrument (Europe) and is a Class I General Controls
medical device (U.S.) for the processing of samples from biological and non-
biological origin. The main application is the manual and automated processing of
ELISA assays and the washing of adherent cells. When equipped with the
corresponding options, the HydroFlex Platform is capable of vacuum filtration to
waste, magnetic-bead washing and ELISA-washing of protein-arrays spotted into
96-well microplates.
2.2.2 HydroFlex Platform Configurations and Options

The following instrument configurations and options are available for the
HydroFlex Platform:
HydroFlex Platform configurations include:
• HydroFlex Platform with 8-way manifold and 1, 2 or 4 inlet channels
• HydroFlex Platform with 16-way manifold and 1, 2 or 4 inlet channels
Options for factory-installation on HydroFlex models include:

• Process Control (PC) for 8-way and 16-way manifolds – online
monitoring of all wash steps in overflow position, for the detection of
clogged needles.
• Liquid Level Detection (LLD) – online monitoring of the liquid level of the
liquid and waste bottles.
• Vacuum Filtration – collects desired substances by filtration using
filtration plates;
this option includes
o a special vacuum filtration plate carrier with a connection to a
vacuum source
o an external vacuum pump
o a 10 liter vacuum waste bottle
o trays for drop removal
• Magnetic Bead Separation - this option includes a special plate carrier
with 96 magnets to fix magnetic beads during an aspiration step.
TECAN 2. General
Caution
Unauthorized modification of the HydroFlex Platform, any of its options
and/or components as well as on any corresponding software or spare
parts will result in a loss of warranty and a potential loss in instrument
performance.
Caution
It is important to understand that the proper installation of the
instrument and HydroControl software alone will not ensure compliance
with national, regional or local regulations. A range of policies and
standard operating procedures according to applicable regulations must
additionally be established.
Caution
MANDATORY SYSTEM VALIDATION BY OPERATING AUTHORITY
The HydroFlex Platform has been validated on representative Enzyme
Immuno Assays (EIA) only in Europe. It is therefore the responsibility of
any Operating Authority to ensure that the HydroFlex Platform has been
validated according to applicable regulations for each specific assay
used on the instrument.
2. General TECAN
2.3 Instrument Specifications

Note
Instrument specifications have been defined using Greiner F flat-bottom
compact 96-well microplates and may vary using other 96-well plates or
96-well strip-plates.
The table below lists the specifications for the instrument. All specifications listed
below are based on the following instrument settings:
Dispense/Wash rate: 250 µl/s
Aspiration rate: 3
PARAMETERS CHARACTERISTICS
General
Display unit Liquid Crystal Display with two rows of sixteen digits
Keyboard Four key membrane keyboard
Number of dispensing Up to four channels

channels
Manifold types 8 and 16-way manifold
USB Interface All connected devices must be approved and listed as per IEC 60950-1
Information Technology Equipment – Safety or equivalent local standards.
Variable
Volume of solution 50 - 3000 µl in 50 µl increments for washing
dispensed 50 - 400 µl in 50 µl increments for dispensing
Dispensing accuracy <= 2 %

Measured under following conditions:
8-way manifold, 300 µl, dispensing rate 3 (250 µl/s/well), wash buffer, Greiner
96 well flat bottom plate
Dispensing uniformity <= 4 % CV

Measured under following conditions:
8-way manifold, 300 µl, dispensing rate 3 (250 µl/s/well), wash buffer, Greiner
96 well flat bottom plate
Residual volume Measured under following conditions:

<= 2 µl / well
1. Crosswise aspiration, 8-way manifold, aspiration rate 3, aspiration time

4 s, head speed 10 mm/s, wash buffer, Greiner 96-well flat bottom
plate.
<= 5 µl / well (Greiner 96-well round bottom and V-shaped bottom plates)
2. Single aspiration, 8-way manifold, aspiration rate 3, aspiration time 4 s,

head speed 10 mm/s, wash buffer.
3. Residual volume of <= 2 µl / well cannot be guaranteed if a 16-way
manifold is used and if not all wells are filled with liquid.
TECAN 2. General
Carry over <= 1 ppm
between wells
Vacuum Filtration
Vacuum preparation The set vacuum pressure is reached in less than 2 minutes.
Vacuum range From -150 to -850 mBar absolute pressure
Power
Supply Auto-sensing
100 - 120 V or 220 - 240 V, 50/60 Hz
Consumption < 65 VA
Physical
Outside dimensions Width: 275 mm, Depth: 366 mm, Height: 180.5 mm
(Width: 10.8 inches, Depth: 14.4 inches, Height: 7.1 inches)
(without Vacuum
Filtration) Greater depth and height in service position
Weight
(without Vacuum 6.6 kg
Filtration)
Environmental
Ambient temperature
Operation 15°C to 35°C (59°F to 95°F)
Storage -20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F)
Relative Humidity
Operation 20 % to 80 % non condensing
Storage 10 % to 80 % non condensing
Others
Overvoltage category II
Pollution degree 2
Method of disposal Electronic waste

(infectious waste)
2. General TECAN
2.4 Instrument Description

The diagram below shows the main components of the instrument:
Manifold Arm
power
Power ON
LED
Manifold
Keyboard and
Display Unit
Prime Tray (Prime Wanne) Guide Bar

Plate Support
hydroFLEX TEC A N
Fig. 2.1 HydroFlex Platform
TECAN 2. General
2.4.1 Rear Panel Connections

The instrument has the following connections on the rear panel:
On/Off
Main Power Socket
Inlets for Liquid Channels 1-4
VAF
USB port
Connector to
Vacuum Filtration Liquid Sensor System Waste Tube
Fig. 2.2 HydroFlex Platform - Rear Panel
HydroFlex Platform Name Plate
All connected devices must be approved and listed as per IEC 60950-1
Information Technology Equipment – Safety or equivalent local standards.
2. General TECAN
2.4.2 Liquid System Diagram

Dispense Solenoid
Manifold Valve
Marked blue
Marked red Dispensing Pump
Marked
red
Aspirating Pump
1 2 3 4
Channel select
Solenoid Valves
Fig. 2.3 HydroFlex Platform
2.5 HydroFlex Platform Options
Vacuum Filtration This option is for collecting desired substances by filtration

using filtration plates.
Process Control (PC) This option checks whether the wash buffer was dispensed
Manifold into and aspirated out of each well during an overflow wash
step (for both manifold types).
Liquid Level Detection The level of liquid in the bottles (wash buffer, rinse solution
(LLD) and waste) is checked. An acoustic signal alerts the user
when the bottles are empty or full.
Magnetic Bead This option includes a special plate carrier with 96 magnets
Separation to fix magnetic beads during an aspiration step.
TECAN 2. General
2.5.1 Vacuum Filtration

Vacuum filtration step is used when working with special filtration microplates
(e.g. PCR-cleanup). This option requires the Tecan Vacuum Filtration Station.
Name plate Vacuum Filtration – 115V Name plate Vacuum Filtration – 230V
See chapter 5.2.7 Process Step: Vacuum Filtration for details on how to program
a vacuum filtration process step.
See chapter 6.2.4 Vacuum Filtration for details on how to prepare vacuum
filtration.
Keep to the description in the following vacuum filtration connection diagram
when installing the vacuum filtration station.
2. General TECAN
Vacuum Filtration Connection Diagram
ON/OFF
Switch
I O
Main
Power
Socket
Vacuum Liquid
Filtration Tubes
System LLD
Connector Sensors
L1 L2 L3 L4
USB VAF W L1 L2 L3 L4
Computer for
Remote Control Waste
using the
HydroControl
Tube
software
Vacuum
Filtration
To power socket
System
Connector
LLD
Sensor
Maximum
Input power cable filling level
of vacuum pump as indicated
on bottle
Liquid 1 Liquid 2 Liquid 3 Liquid 4 Waste
Vacuum pump Vacuum-

Waste
Fig. 2.4 HydroFlex: Vacuum Filtration Connection Diagram
TECAN 2. General
2.5.2 Process Control (PC)

When the HydroFlex Platform is equipped with the optional Process Control (PC)
Manifold, the instrument can detect if one or more needles are not
dispensing/aspirating liquid or if a non-conductive liquid is being used.
Process Control only works with the OVERFLOW wash procedure and a
minimum wash volume of 500 µl.
The wash buffer forms an electrical connection between the dispensing needles
and the aspirating needles. As soon as the wash liquid touches the aspirating
needles the electric circuit is closed.
Closed
circuit
The following errors can be detected using this method:
PC Dispense Error
An error message appears if some of the needles are dispensing no or too little
solution. Possible errors could be a result of blocked dispensing needles, bubbles
in the dispensing channels (when the bubble sensor is deactivated) or empty
liquid bottles.
If no connection between the dispensing needles and the corresponding
aspirating needles is made at least 30 µl before the dispensing step is finished,
the wash program will be interrupted.
PC Aspiration Error
In order to prevent the wells from overflowing, the instrument checks when the
individual aspiration needles come into contact with the wash solution during the
overflow wash steps.
If this happens before 200 µl have been dispensed into the wells the program is
stopped immediately and an error message appears. This can occur when the
well was not or not completely aspirated, due to a blocked aspirating needle/tube
or the general aspiration being too weak because of a defective pump.
PC Function Error
Before each wash procedure and each row the program checks whether there is
an electrical connection between the dispensing and aspirating needle(s). The
program is interrupted immediately or will not even be started. The manifold is
defective; contact your local service representative.
PC System Error
Process control is not working. Electronics are defective.
2. General TECAN
Requirements for Process Control

The following conditions are required for the process control to function properly.
• The conductance of the wash buffer must be between 5 mS/cm and 30
mS/cm.
• The wash procedure must be performed in overflow position, so that
through the simultaneous dispensing and aspiration a closed circuit is
formed. A minimum wash volume of 500 µl is required.
Conductance of Some Standard Wash Buffers

Most of the commercial wash buffers lie in the mentioned conductance ranges.
The conductance is proportional to the wash buffer concentration.
The following values were measured using a normal dilution:
Wash buffer Ortho Diagnostic System: 1:20 - 14.0 mS/cm
Wash buffer SIGMA:

1 tablet in 200 ml - 14.7 mS/cm
Phosphate buffered saline tablets:
Wash buffer bioMérieux:
1:25 - 13.7 mS/cm
Phosphate buffer concentrate:
Wash buffer BOUTY:
1:20 - 14.2 mS/cm
Beta IgM:
Wash buffer MUREX:
1:20 - 7.8 mS/cm
Wash fluid (Glycine/Borate):
Wash buffer BIOTEST ELPHA:
1:10 - 28.1 mS/cm
(Nr. 3 + 4):
2.5.3 Liquid Level Detection (LLD)

Liquid level sensors are built into the covers of all bottles to avoid overflow of
waste bottles and to warn the user when the liquid bottles are almost empty.
When working with the Vacuum Filtration option, an additional vacuum waste
can be fitted with liquid level detection.
TECAN 2. General
2.5.4 Magnetic Bead

Magnetic Bead Separation includes a special plate carrier with 96 magnets to fix
magnetic beads during an aspiration step.
See chapter 8.7 Replacing the Plate Carrier for more details on how to install the
plate carrier.
CAUTION
Be aware of the possible presence of a magnetic field.
2.6 Microplate Requirements

Only 96-well format microplates (round, v-shaped, and flat bottom - including strip
plates) can be used with the HydroFlex Platform.
Max. overall plate height 14.35 mm ± 0.76 mm
(0.5650 inches ± 0.0299 inches)
Footprint 9.0 mm (0.3543 inches)
Pitch size (center to center) 9.0 mm (0.3543 inches)
Bottom shape Round, v-shaped, and flat
TECAN 3. Installation
3. Installation
When installing, moving, or connecting the instrument, follow the instructions in
this publication. Tecan does not accept the responsibility for injury suffered by
anyone attempting these operations without following the instructions in this
publication, nor for damage incurred to the instrument.
Make sure the laboratory meets all the requirements and conditions described in
this chapter.
3.1 Installation Requirements

3.1.1 Required Working Area
Select a location to place the instrument that is flat, level, vibration free, away
from direct sunlight, and free from dust, solvents and acid vapors.
Allow at least 10 cm (4 inches) between the instrument and the wall or any other
equipment. Do not place any items close to the instrument that could obstruct
airflow.
The dispensing pump must be calibrated by a service technician, if the positions
of the liquid bottles are placed below the height of the instrument (maximum
height difference of 1 meter is allowed).
For information regarding outer dimensions and weight of the instrument, see
chapter 2.3 Instrument Specifications.
3.1.2 Power Requirements

The instrument is designed to operate at either 100 - 120 V or 220 - 240 V.
No voltage setting is required as the instrument automatically senses the supplied
voltage. See 2.3 Instrument Specifications for further information.
The vacuum filtration pump is not auto-sensing and comes in versions for
220 Volts or 110 Volts.
3.2 Unpacking and Inspection

1. Visually inspect the container(s) for damage before opening.
Report any damage immediately.
2. Place the carton in an upright position and open it.
3. Lift the instrument out of the carton and place it in the selected location.
4. Remove the transport protection from the instrument and manifold.
5. Visually inspect the instrument for loose, bent or broken parts.
Report any damage immediately.
6. Compare the serial number on the rear panel of the instrument with the
serial number on the packing slip.
Report any discrepancy immediately.
7. Check the instrument accessories against the packing list.
8. Save packing materials for further transportation purposes. The
HydroFlex Platform must be shipped in the original packaging.
3. Installation TECAN
3.2.1 Unpacking and Inspection Checklist

The standard HydroFlex Platform is shipped in one carton, which contains:
• Instrument
• Accessory package which contains:
o 6 Manifold screws and Allen key
o Main power cable
o 2 Cleaning needles
o (1,2 or 4) Solution tube(s) (1m) depending on instrument
configuration
o 3 spare o-ring seals for manifold
o USB cable
• Bottle set containing:
o (1,2 or 4) Liquid bottle(s) (2.5 liter) depending on instrument
configuration
o 1 Waste bottle (5 liter)
• HydroControl software CD
• Instructions for Use for HydroControl software
• Instructions for Use for HydroFlex Platform (this document)
Liquid
Bottles
Instrument
Waste
Bottle
Accessory Manuals
Package
Fig. 3.1 The packaging for HydroFlex Platform
If the Vacuum Filtration Station option has been purchased, the following two
cartons will also be delivered along with the standard HydroFlex Platform:
Carton 1:
• Vacuum Pump
Carton 2:
• Vacuum Filtration Station
• Vacuum Waste Bottle
• Vacuum Tubing for connection Waste Bottle and Vacuum Pump
(including aerosol Filter)
• Vacuum Tubing for connection HydroFlex and Vacuum Filtration Module
• Connection cable between HydroFlex electronic board and Vacuum
Filtration electronic board
• Power Cable
• Accessory package which contains:
o Vacuum Filtration plate transport including tubing
o 2 trays for improved drop removal
o Tube connector holding plate
3.3 Installation Procedure

After the instrument has been unpacked and the contents of the transport
container have been checked for damages and completeness (see
3.2 Unpacking and Inspection), the instrument can be installed using the following
procedure:
Caution
Before the instrument is installed and switched on,
it should be left to stand for at least three hours, so there is
no possibility of condensation causing a short circuit.
Caution
If the liquid bottles are attached improperly or
to the wrong connector on the back panel of the instrument,
the wash performance can be seriously affected.
• Connect the solution tubes to the inlet connectors (see 3.3.1 Connection
Diagram). The solution tubes are connected onto the inlet connectors on
the rear panel of the instrument (L1 – L4). The instrument is supplied with
one, two, or four 1-meter lengths of tubing (depending on instrument
configuration).
• Connect the Liquid Level Sensors, if available.
• Setup instrument options, if available.
• Ensure that the on/off switch in the rear panel of the instrument is in the
off position, then connect the instrument to the power supply: insert the
main power cable into the main power socket on the rear of the
instrument.
3.3.1 Connection Diagram
ON/OFF
Switch
I O
Main
Power
Socket
Vacuum Liquid
Filtration Tubes
System LLD
Connector Sensors
L1 L2 L3 L4
USB VAF W L1 L2 L3 L4
W
Waste
Tube
Maximum
filling level
as indicated
on bottle
Liquid 1 Liquid 2 Liquid 3 Liquid 4 Waste
Computer for
Remote Control
using the
HydroControl
software
Fig. 3.2 Connection Diagram
3.3.2 Fitting and Connecting the Liquid Level Detection (LLD)

(Optional)
Connect the liquid sensor cables into the appropriate sockets in the rear panel of
the instrument. The Liquid Level Detection system can be extended to control up
to four different liquid bottles and one waste bottle. An additional Vacuum Waste
Sensor is available for the vacuum filtration option.
Fig. 3.3 Waste and Liquid Bottles with LLD Sensors
TECAN 4. Operating Instructions
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Switching the Instrument On
Ensure the instrument has been correctly installed and the main power cable is
connected into the main power socket in the rear panel of the instrument and the
liquid tubes are connected to the correct liquid and waste bottle(s).
Switch ON the instrument, using the on/off switch in the rear panel of the
instrument. The initialization procedure is performed and, depending on the
instrument type, the following initialization message is displayed:
HYDROFLEX
V X.XX HYDRO
“V X.XX” is the instrument's firmware version. “HYDRO” is the name of the

instrument, which can be defined via the HydroControl software.
If the Rinse Night procedure was aborted before the instrument was switched
off, the following message is displayed after the instrument initializes:
PLEASE RINSE
OK
Press OK and then select the Rinse Night procedure.

After the rinsing procedure has been performed, the instrument proceeds to the
standby mode and the following message is displayed:
PROGRAM
< > OK
Caution
The liquid system must be primed with the liquid that will be used (wash
buffer) before it can be used. Please ensure that the dispensing and
aspiration pumps are not run for longer than a few minutes without
liquid, otherwise they will be damaged.
Caution
At the end of each working day, perform the Rinse Night procedure with
distilled water to ensure the proper performance of the HydroFlex
Platform and to prevent needles from becoming blocked,
for details see chapter Rinse Night on page 8-3.
4. Operating Instructions TECAN
4.2 Instrument Firmware

The instrument firmware can be used to run and manage wash programs as well
as programs for vacuum filtration, define plate parameters, adjust certain
instrument settings, and perform instrument procedures (rinse, prime and empty
prime tray).
Following features are available:

• 20 user definable washing programs, stored under
program positions 1 to 20.
• Up to 60 processing steps per program, each processing step can be
identical or different from the previous step.
• Adjustable soak time (1 second to 60 minutes and 59 seconds).
• Shaking: The following shaking settings are available:
o High: Linear shaking with a shaking frequency of 25 Hz and a
shaking amplitude of 1 mm
o Medium: Linear shaking with a shaking frequency of 10 Hz and a
o Low: Linear shaking with a shaking frequency of 5 Hz and a
• Adjustable dispense rate (Drip Mode to 500 µl/s)
• Adjustable aspirating speed (1 to 3)
• Adjustable bottom positions, for aspiration close to the bottom of the
wells (Bottom, Custom, Overflow)
• Two rinse modes (Rinse Day and Rinse Night) can be used to select
how the instrument is rinsed before it is left to stand or switched off.
• Automatic microplate centering: the microplate is automatically centered
before starting any wash program.
• Programmable strip selection: the strips to be washed can be defined in
the program before starting the washing procedure.
4.2.1 Instrument Firmware Menus

The instrument has the following menu options:
Program Start, Define/Edit, Show, Clear
Settings Edit Plates, Options, Bubble Sensor
Procedures Prime, Rinse, Empty Prime Tray, Vacuum Filtration
Firmware Commands on the Display (in alphabetical order)

ASP.RATE # Aspiration rate # Crossw.Asp YES Crosswise Aspiration yes
ASPIRATE Aspirate CYCLE NO # Cycle number #
BOTTOM POS. Bottom position CYCLE NO # Cycle number #
BUBBLE ERROR Bubble error DEFINE EDIT Define Edit
BUBBLE HIGH Bubble high DISABLE PC Disable Process Control
BUBBLE LOW Bubble low DISABLE VAC Disable vacuum
BUBBLE MEDIUM Bubble medium DISPENSE Dispense
BUBBLE OFF Bubble OFF DISPENSE POS. Dispense position
BUBBLE SENSOR Bubble sensor EDIT LLD CHANNEL Edit LLD channel
BURN IN TEST Burn in test EDIT PLATES Edit plates
C# CYCLE C# Cycle EMPTY BOTTLES Empty bottles
C# CYCLEEND C# Cycle End EMPTY PRIMETRAY Empty prime tray
C# P# ASP C# P# Aspirate ENABLE PC Enable Process Control
C# P# ASP C# P# Aspirate ENABLE VAC Enable vacuum
C# P# CYCLE C# P# Cycle FINAL ASP? Final aspiration?
C# P# CYCLEEND C# P# Cycle end FINAL ASPIRATE Final aspiration
C# P# DISP C# P# Dispense FL.RATE # ul/s Flow rate # ul/s
C# P# DISP C# P# Dispense FL.RATE DRIP Flow rate Drip
C# P# SOAK C# P# Soak HPC SYSTEM ERR Hydro Process Control

System error
C# P# SOAK C# P# Soak
H-SPEED # mm/s Head speed: # mm/s
C# P# VAC. C# P# Vacuum
HYDROFLEX HydroFlex
C# P# VAC. C# P# Vacuum
INIT Initialize
C# P# WASH C# P# Wash
INIT ERROR Initialization error
C# P# WASH C# P# Wash
INV CMD Invalid command
CH# PRIMED? Channel# primed?
INV PARAMETER Invalid parameter
CHANNEL # Channel #
LIQUID BOTTLE OK Liquid bottle OK
CLEAR Clear
LLD ERROR LLD Error
CLEAR: # Clear: #
LLD OFF LLD OFF
CLR Clear
LLD ON LLD ON
CLR CHANNEL 1 Clear channel 1
LOCKED locked
MANIFOLD BROKEN Manifold broken
MANIFOLD DETECT Manifold detection
MANIFOLD UP Manifold up
CLR VAC.WASTE Clear vacuum waste
MISS. PARAMETER Missing parameter
CLR WASTE 1 Clear waste 1
MOVE CUSTOM Move custom
Crossw.Asp NO Crosswise Aspiration no
MOVE MANIFOLD Move manifold PROGR #: Program #:
MOVE OVERFLOW Move overflow PROGRAM Program
MOVE TRANSPORT Move transport PROGRAM END? Program End?
NAME: Name: PROGRAM IS Program is
NO ASP AT VACFIL No aspiration at vacuum REMOTE Remote

filtration
RINSE Rinse
NO PLATE No plate
RINSE DAY Rinse day
NO PLATE FOUND No plate found
RINSE NIGHT Rinse night
NO PROGRAM No Program
RINSE SOL. OK? Rinse solution OK?
NO PROGRAM No program found
RS485 TIMEOUT RS485 Timeout
FOUND
RUN # Run #
NO VACFIL No vacuum filtration
SENSOR DEFECT Sensor defect
NO.OF CYCLES # Number of cycles #
SET CHANNEL 1 Set channel 1
NOT DEF Not defined
OPTIONS Options
OVERFLOW POS. Overflow position
PARAMETER RANGE Parameter range
SET VAC.WASTE Set vacuum waste
PC ASP ERR Process Control
Aspiration error SET WASTE 1 Set waste 1
PC DISP ERR Process Control SETTINGS Settings
Dispense error
SHAKE HIGH Shake high
PC FUNCT. ERR Process Control
Function error SHAKE LOW Shake low
PLATE plate SHAKE MEDIUM Shake medium
Plate # Plate # SHAKE OFF Shake off
PLATE INSERTED? Plate inserted? SHAKE YES Shake yes
PLATE MODE Plate mode SHOW Show
PLEASE EMPTY Please empty SOAK Soak
PLEASE INSERT Please insert START Start
PLEASE RINSE Please rinse STEPLOSS Steploss
POS. ASP1 Position Aspirate 1 STEPLOSS Steploss
POS. ASP2 Position Aspirate 2 STRIP MODE Strip mode
POWERFAILURE Power failure TECAN AUSTRIA Tecan Austria
PRIME Prime TIME: # s Time: # s
PRIME EXIT YES Prime Exit Yes TIME: #min #s Time: #min #s
PRIME SOL. OK? Prime solution OK? USE OTHER NAME Use other name
PROCEDURES Procedures VAC NOT READY Vacuum not ready
PROCESS CONTROL Process Control VAC NOT STARTED Vacuum not started
PROGR # DELETED Program # deleted VAC. Vacuum
VACUUM CLEAN Vacuum clean Y-User Def # Y-User Defined #
VACUUM FILTR. Vacuum filtration Z-POS: BOTTOM Z-POS: Bottom
VACUUM FILTR. Vacuum filtration Z-POS: CELL Z-POS: Cell
VACUUM PREPARE Vacuum prepare Z-POS: CUSTOM Z-POS: Custom
VACUUM STOP Vacuum stop Z-POS: OVERFLOW Z-POS: Overflow
VACUUMFILTRATION Vacuum filtration Z-POS: OVERFLOW Z-POS: Overflow
VOLUME # ul Volume # ul Z-POS:MOVE CUST. Z-POS: Move customer
WASH Wash Z-POS:MOVE OVER. Z-POS: Move overflow
WASTE BOTTLE OK? Waste bottle OK? Z-User Def # Z-User Defined #
WASTEBOTTLE Wastebottle
4.3 Operating Instructions

4.3.1 Performing a Wash Procedure
Insert the 96-well microplate to be washed into the plate transport and ensure
that the microplate is correctly oriented (position A1 of the plate corresponds to
position A1 marked on the plate transport).
Fig. 4.1 Fitting a microplate
The operating procedure is dependent on the instrument options and the program
settings.
Caution
Before washing procedures are started, make sure that
the microplate position A1 is inserted correctly.
Caution
Be careful when using strip-plates that the strips are positioned
in the microplate as selected in the program, otherwise spilling
can occur and the instrument may become contaminated.
(see 5.2.2 Define/Edit a Program (Define/Edit Menu)).
WARNING
WHEN THE INSTRUMENT IS BUSY, DO NOT TOUCH THE
MANIFOLD!
AFTER THE INSTRUMENT HAS BEEN USED,
THE MANIFOLD AND PRIME TRAY MAY BE INFECTIOUS!
4.4 Wash Modes

The instrument can wash a microplate using the following wash modes:
Plate Mode Each program step is performed on all of the strips of a
microplate sequentially, before proceeding to the next step.
The entire plate or the defined plate range is processed for the
defined soaking time.
Strip Mode The entire wash program is performed on one strip or two
consecutive strips of a microplate before proceeding to the next
strip(s) (1 strip for 8-way manifold or two strips for 16-way
manifold). The strip or group of two strips is processed for the
defined soaking time, before proceeding to the next strip or
group of strips.
4.5 Washing Positions

Wash, Dispense, and Aspirate steps can be defined in a wash program with the
following Z-positions:
Overflow For ELISA assays and Cellular assays. Overflow washing consists of a
simultaneous aspiration and dispense step. It creates a circular flow of wash buffer
in the well and ensures that the topmost parts of the well are also washed.
Bottom For ELISA assays.
Custom Any necessary washing position can be selected; the custom positions are not
saved as *.pdf files in comparison to the overflow and bottom position.
Move Overflow If Move Overflow (MOVE OVER.) is selected, the manifold moves step-wise from
the bottom position to the Overflow position during dispensing. It is recommended
for cell wash applications or any applications which must be treated with care.
Move Custom If Move Custom (MOVE CUST.) is selected, the manifold moves step-wise from the
bottom position to the user-defined Custom Z- position during dispensing. It is
recommended for cell wash applications or any applications which must be treated
with care.
Z-Position Overflow
Z-Position Custom
Z-Position Bottom
Figure 4.2 Wash Position Diagrams
MOVE OVER. MOVE CUST.
Movement of Movement of
manifold manifold
Overflow Position Custom Position
Bottom Position Bottom Position
Figure 4.3 Movement Diagrams for Z-positions with MOVE
4.6 Aspirating Modes

To improve wash efficiency and to reduce the residual volume, the manifold must
be positioned so that the aspirating needles are correctly positioned in the wells
for round-bottom, v-shaped bottom, or flat-bottom well microplates.
Normal Aspiration Mode

For round-bottom or v-shaped bottom wells, the aspirating needles are placed in
the middle of the wells. Only one aspiration position can be selected.
'V' Shaped Wells

Round Bottom Wells
Fig. 4.4 Normal Aspirating Positions
Crosswise Aspiration Mode

With flat bottom wells, the instrument can perform crosswise aspiration using two
aspiration positions per well.
The aspirating needles are set at two positions on the bottom of the wells
(front edge and back edge).
Aspirate Y Offset 1 Aspirate Y Offset 2
Front edge Back edge
Fig. 4.5 Crosswise Aspiration for Flat Bottom Wells
WARNING
TO ENSURE PROPER WASH PERFORMANCE IT IS MANDATORY TO
ADJUST THE HYDROFLEX PLATFORM TO THE TYPE /
MANUFACTURER OF MICROPLATE OR STRIP-PLATE USED. THIS
ALSO APPLIES FOR ANY PRE-DEFINED PLATE FILE, THAT WILL
ALWAYS CONTAIN AVERAGE PLATE PARAMETERS ONLY, THAT
HAVE TO BE VERIFIED WITH THE CORRESPONDING PLATE TYPE AND
IF NECESSARY CORRECTED BEFORE PUTTING THE HYDROFLEX
PLATFORM INTO USE.
IF THIS ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURE IS NOT PERFORMED PROPERLY,
THIS MIGHT RESULT IN HIGH LEVELS OF RESIDUAL VOLUME PER
WELL, AS WELL AS INSUFFICIENT WASHING OF THE WELLS AND MAY
FOR DETAILS ON HOW TO ADJUST THE HYDROFLEX PLATFORM TO
THE TYPE OF MICROPLATE OR STRIP-PLATE USED, SEE CHAPTER
6 SETTINGS MENU IN THIS MANUAL.
4.7 Drip Mode

The slowest dispensing mode is drip mode.
Drip mode is used for very sensitive applications, e.g. washing cell layers,
because the instrument offers the possibility to dispense liquid in small drops.
This minimizes the detachment of cells and increases the remaining cell
percentage at the bottom of the wells.
The following example shows a typical wash program for working with adherent
cells (as it would appear in the Define/Edit menu, see 5.2.2 Define/Edit a
Program (Define/Edit Menu) for further information about defining programs).
Note
The following example program should not be used as a standard wash
procedure for cell washing as it is necessary to adjust the wash
parameters, such as Z-position “MOVE CUST.”, dispensing and aspirating
rates, head speed, etc., according to the cell type used.
DEFINE EDIT To define a program press OK to enter the DEFINE EDIT

menu.
< > EXIT OK
PROGR 1: Select an appropriate position for the program.

- + EXIT OK
NAME:CELLWASH Select an appropriate name for the program.

567890, , ABCDE
PLATE MODE Select PLATE MODE and press OK.

- + EXIT OK
PLATE 1, GRE96ft Select an appropraite plate type and press OK.

- + EXIT OK
Select 2 cycles and press OK.

NO. OF CYCLES 2
- + EXIT OK
Select WASH and press OK.

C1 P1 WASH
- + EXIT OK
POS: MOVE CUST. Select MOVE CUST. and press OK to continue to the next
parameter
- + EXIT OK
Z-User Def 7000 Set the user defined Z-position to the appropriate height and
press OK to continue to the next parameter
- + EXIT OK
VOLUME 450µl Set the volume to 450 µl and press OK to continue to the
next parameter
- + EXIT OK
CHANNEL 1 set the channel to 1 and press OK to continue to the next

parameter
- + EXIT OK
H-SPEED 1mm/s Set the head speed to 1 mm/s and press OK to continue to
the next parameter
- + EXIT OK
FLOWRATE DRIP Set the flow rate to DRIP and press OK to continue to the
next parameter
- + EXIT OK
PROGRAM END? Select PROGRAM END? and press OK.
- + EXIT OK
FINAL ASP When the final aspiration step appears, press NO to finish
defining the program.
- NO YES
Figure 4.6 Example of a typical wash program for working with adherent cells
4.8 End of Operation

At the end of operation, the instrument can be either left switched on with
the manifold in the rinsing solution or switched off after the correct maintenance
has been performed.
4.8.1 Instrument Left Switched On

If the instrument will be left to stand for a short time (i.e. up to 2 hours), perform
Rinse Day with distilled water or wash buffer.
1. Place the liquid tube into a bottle containing distilled water or wash buffer.
2. Use the Rinse Day rinsing procedure to rinse the wash system.
(see chapter Rinse Day on page 8-2).
3. When the rinsing procedure is completed the following message is
displayed:
RINSE DAY
STOP END
4. The manifold remains in the prime tray until END is pressed. Press STOP
to abort the procedure (prime tray will not be aspirated).
If the instrument is left to stand for a longer period of time (e.g. overnight), use the
following procedure to leave the instrument switched on with the manifold soaking
in the distilled water at the end of operation:
1. Place the liquid tube into a bottle containing distilled water.
2. Use the Rinse Night rinsing procedure to rinse the wash system.
(see chapter Rinse Night on page 8-3).
displayed:
RINSE NIGHT
STOP END
4. The manifold remains in the prime tray until END is pressed. Press
STOP to abort the procedure (prime tray will not be aspirated).
4.8.2 Instrument Switched Off

If the instrument is to be switched off at the end of operation, the Rinse Night
procedure should be performed before switching off the instrument to prevent the
needles from becoming blocked.
1. Place the liquid tube into a bottle containing distilled water or deionized
water.
2. Use the Rinse Night procedure to rinse the wash system
(see chapter Rinse Night on page 8-3).
displayed:
RINSE NIGHT
STOP END
4. The manifold remains in the prime tray until END is pressed. Press STOP
to abort the procedure (prime tray will not be aspirated).
5. If the instrument will be left to stand for a long period of time (i.e. more
than 1 day), prime the instrument without liquid to remove all liquid from
the liquid system.
6. Switch the instrument off.
If the manifold is to be soaked overnight, do not switch the instrument off!
TECAN 5. Programming Procedure
5. Programming Procedure
5.1 Introduction
The instrument can store up to 20 programs, which contain the following
parameters:
Name Name of the program, up to eight characters long
Plate The plate type number (1 – 20)
Manifold The type of manifold that is to be used, 8- or 16-way
manifold, is automatically detected by the instrument
firmware.
Disp. Rate The speed at which the solution is dispensed (Drip Mode,
200, 250, 300, 400, or 500 µl/s)
Asp. Rate The speed at which the solution is aspirated (1 – 3)
Crosswise Select crosswise aspiration, if the plate type has 96 flat
bottom wells.
Mode Select the operating mode (plate or strip)
Process Steps Each of the programs can contain up to a maximum of
sixty different or equal program items (each cycle is
counted as two process steps).
The following program items are available:

CYCLE: The number of cycles the subsequent processing steps
should be performed
ASP: An aspirate step removes liquid from the wells.
DISP: A dispense step fills the wells with liquid.
WASH: Liquid is dispensed and aspirated simultaneously creating
a circular flow with a maximum volume of 3000 µl in one
wash step for increased wash efficiency.
SOAK: During a soak step the liquid remains in the wells for the
set time (with or without shaking).
VAC: For collecting desired substances by vacuum filtration
using filtration plates.
END PROGRAM: The program finishes.
5. Programming Procedure TECAN
5.2 Program Menu

The Program menu has the following options:
Start Run a defined wash program.

Define/Edit Define or edit a program on the instrument.
Show View the parameters of a defined program.
Clear Clear a wash program from the instrument’s menu.
The Program menu has the following structure:
PROGRAM
< > OK
START DEFINE EDIT SHOW CLEAR

< > EXIT OK < > EXIT OK < > EXIT OK < > EXIT OK
5.2.1 Starting a Program (Start Menu)

START Press OK to enter the Start menu.
< > EXIT OK
RUN1:Program_1 Select required program

- + EXIT OK and press OK to continue.
CH1 PRIMED? If the required channel is not primed,

PRIME EXIT YES press Prime to enter the Prime menu.
WASTE BOTTLE OK? If necessary, empty the waste bottle

NO EXIT YES and press YES.
LIQUID BOTTLE OK? If necessary, fill the required liquid bottle

and press YES.
NO EXIT YES
PLATE INSERTED? If necessary, fill insert the required plate

and press YES.
NO EXIT YES
The strips are represented by

SSSSSSSSSSSS S (selected) or N (not selected).
< > Chg OK The instrument automatically recognizes the
manifold type (8-way or 16-way manifold).
Depending on the type of manifold, 1 or two strips
at a time can be selected. Press “Chg” to switch
between selected and not selected. Select the
required strips using the cursor keys (selected
strips are underlined).
Press OK to start the wash program.
INIT
STOP
The current wash step will be displayed.
Press stop to abort the program.
WASH
STOP
PROGRAM When the program is finished, the

< > OK instrument returns to the program menu.
5.2.2 Define/Edit a Program (Define/Edit Menu)

DEFINE EDIT Press OK to define or edit a program on the instrument.
< > EXIT OK
Press - or + to select a program position in which a new

PROG1: program will be defined or select an already existing
- + EXIT OK program to edit.
Enter the required name for the program (up to eight

NAME:EXAMPLE characters). Select a character by moving it with the cursor
keys between the commas and pressing the return key
567890, , ABCDE Select , to delete a character. Select and press the
return key to save the program name and continue to
mode selection.
PLATE MODE Press - or + to select between plate or strip mode.

- + EXIT OK
Plate 1, GRE96ft Press - or + to select other plate types.

- + EXIT OK
Press - or + to select the number of cycles

NO. OF CYCLES 1
(cycles can be repeated up to 9 times).
- + EXIT OK
Press - or + to select the process step (ASP, DISP, WASH,

SOAK, PROGRAM END, CX CYCLE, where X is the
C1 P1 ASP number of the next cycle). Press OK to define the selected
process step. Once the process step has been defined the
- + EXIT OK display appears with the step position incremented (e.g. P1
becomes P2).
C1 P2 ASP Select - or + to define the next process step.

- + EXIT OK Press OK to define the selected process step.
C2 CYCLE To add another cycle, press + until CX CYCLE is displayed

- + EXIT OK (X is the number of the next cycle). Press OK to define the
number of cycles.
PROGRAM END? Press – or + and press OK to select PROGRAM END

to finish defining the program.
- + EXIT OK
FINAL ASP? Add a final aspiration step if necessary.

The parameters for the final aspirate step can be selected.
NO YES
START Once the program has been defined,

< > EXIT OK the Start menu appears again.
5.2.3 Process Step: Aspirate

Select and confirm aspirating step (ASP)
CX PX ASP CX = Cycle Number
- + EXIT OK PX = Program Step Number
Select YES using – or + to perform crosswise

Crossw.Asp YES
aspiration or select NO to perform normal aspiration.
- + EXIT OK
POS: BOTTOM Press – or + to select the aspiration position

(BOTTOM; OVERFLOW or CUSTOM).
- + EXIT OK
TIME: 4 s Select required aspirating time (1 - 20 seconds).

- + EXIT OK
H-SPEED10mm/s
Select required aspirating speed (1 - 20 mm/sec).
- + EXIT OK
ASP.RATE 2 Select required aspirating rate (1 - 3).

- + EXIT OK
After the process step has been defined the initial

CX PY ASP display appears.
- + EXIT OK CX = Cycle Number
PY = Program Step Number incremented by 1
Press OK to define another aspiration step
or press – or + to select the next program step,
Program End or a new cycle.
Aspiration Position Diagrams

For further details, see also 4.5 Washing Positions.
Position Overflow
Position Custom
Position Bottom
Figure 5.1 Aspiration Position Diagrams
5.2.4 Process Step: Dispense

CX PX DISP
Select and confirm dispensing step (DISP)
PX = Program Step Number
Select required dispensing position

Z-POS: OVERFLOW
(OVERFLOW, CUSTOM, MOVE OVER.,
- + EXIT OK MOVE CUST. or BOTTOM).
VOLUME 300µl Select the volume of solution to be used

(50 - 400 µl in increments of 50 µl).
- + EXIT OK
CHANNEL 1 Select the channel to be used (1 - 4)

depending on instrument configuration.
- + EXIT OK
FL.RATE 300 µl/s

Select required flow rate (drip to 500µl/sec).
- + EXIT OK

CX PY DISP
display appears.
Press OK to define another dispense step
Dispensing Position Diagrams

Z-Position Overflow
Z-Position Custom
Z-Position Bottom
Figure 5.2 Z-Position Diagrams
MOVE OVER. MOVE CUST.
Movement of Movement of
manifold manifold
Overflow Position Custom Position
Bottom Position Bottom Position
Figure 5.3 Movement Diagrams for Z-positions with MOVE
5.2.5 Process Step: Wash

This process step is used to aspirate solution out of the wells and simultaneously
dispense and aspirate the solution.
Select and confirm wash step (WASH)

CX PX WASH
CX = Cycle Number
POS: OVERFLOW Select required dispensing position

(OVERFLOW, CUSTOM, MOVE OVER.,
- + EXIT OK MOVE CUST. or BOTTOM).
VOLUME 300µl Select the volume of solution to be used

(50 - 3000 µl in increments of 50 µl)
- + EXIT OK
CHANNEL 1 Select the channel to be used (1 - 4)

depending on instrument configuration.
- + EXIT OK
H-SPEED 10 mm/s Select required aspirating speed (1 - 20 mm/sec).

- + EXIT OK
FL.RATE 200 µl/s Select required flow rate (drip to 500µl/sec).

- + EXIT OK

CX PY WASH display appears.
Press OK to define another wash step
5.2.6 Process Step: Soak

Select and confirm soak step (SOAK).
CX PX SOAK CX = Cycle Number
Select required soaking time using -/+ keys

TIME: 0 min 10 s
(0 – 60 min; 1 - 59 seconds )
- + Chg. OK Press Chg. to select minutes or seconds.
SHAKE OFF The shaking speed can be selected

(OFF, LOW, MEDIUM or HIGH).
- + EXIT OK

CX PY SOAK
display appears.
Press OK to define another soak step
5.2.7 Process Step: Vacuum Filtration

Select and confirm Vacuum Filtration step (VAC).
CX PX VAC CX = Cycle Number
Select required vacuum pressure using the - /+ keys.

VAC. -100.0 mBar
- + EXIT OK
Select required soaking time using the - /+ keys

TIME: 0 min 10 s
(0 – 60 min; 1 - 59 seconds )
- + Chg. OK Press Chg. to select minutes or seconds.

CX PX ASP display appears.
Press OK to define another vacuum filtration step
Note
Adjust parameters for filtration plates only when Vacuum Filtration is
enabled!
5.3 Show Program

This submenu is used to display the parameters that have been defined for a
program. An example wash program containing one cycle, one wash step and a
final aspiration step will be used to demonstrate this menu.
The displayed parameter settings cannot be altered in this submenu.
SHOW Press OK to enter the Show menu.

< > EXIT OK
PROG1: EXAMPLE Select required program to show.

Press + or – to select programs from other positions.
- + EXIT OK
STRIP MODE Selected mode is displayed.

EXIT OK
1: GRE96ft Selected plate type displayed

EXIT OK
C1 CYCLE Cycle 1 will be shown.

Press + to show the program steps of this cycle.
- + EXIT OK Press OK to show the cycle number.
Press OK to show the parameters of the program step.

C1 P1 WASH
Press + to continue to the next program step;
- + EXIT OK Press “- “ to return to the previous step.
POS: OVERFLOW Press OK to continue to the next parameter

of the selected program step.
EXIT OK
Press OK to continue to the next parameter

VOLUME 300µl
EXIT OK
CHANNEL 1 Press OK to continue to the next parameter

EXIT OK
H-SPEED 10mm/s Press OK to continue to the next parameter

EXIT OK of the selected program step.
FL.RATE 300µl/s Press OK to continue to the next parameter

EXIT OK
Once all parameters of the step have been shown the selected
C1 P1 WASH Program Step appears again. Press + to continue to the next
program step; Press “- “ to return to the previous step.
- + EXIT OK
Press OK to show the parameters of the final aspiration

FIN.ASPIRATE step. If no final aspirate step was used, “CX CYCLEEND”
- END OK appears. Press OK to view the cycle number.
Press END to exit the Show menu. Press - to return to the
previous step.
5.4 Clear Program

This submenu is used to clear a program from the instrument's memory.
CLEAR Press OK to enter the CLEAR

< > EXIT OK menu.
CLR PROGR 1:A Select the program to be deleted

< > EXIT OK from the instrument's memory
(Program Position: Program Name)
CLR PROGR 1? Confirm that selected program

NO YES is to be deleted
CLR (Program Position) ?
The name of the program which

A: DELETED
has been deleted appears
(Program Name: DELETED)
If the program is locked it cannot be cleared and the following message is

displayed:
PROGRAM IS
LOCKED
The program can only be unlocked via the HydroControl software, by users with
the appropriate rights.
TECAN 6. Settings Menu
6. Settings Menu
6.1 Introduction
The Settings menu has the following options:
Edit Plates Adjustment procedure for setting the parameters for up to
20 different microplates.
Options The Options menu contains the following submenus:
Edit LLD Channels, Vacuum Filtration, Process Control.
Bubble The Bubble Sensor sensitivity can be set to Low, Medium, or
Sensor High depending on liquids used (if this option is installed). If very
foamy liquids are used the bubble sensor should be switched OFF.
The Settings menu has the following structure:
SETTINGS
< > OK
EDIT PLATES OPTIONS BUBBLE SENSOR

< > EXIT OK < > EXIT OK < > EXIT OK
6.1.1 Edit Plates

EDIT PLATES Press OK to continue.
- + EXIT OK
Plate 1, GRE96ft Press – or + to select the plate (1-20)

- + EXIT OK and press OK to edit the plate parameters.
Use the cursor keys to select the position to be defined

OVERFLOW POS.
(OVERFLOW, BOTTOM, ASP1 or ASP2) and press OK.
< > EXIT OK For round and V-shaped bottom plates,
only one aspiration can be defined.
Z-User Def 14600 The instrument moves to the predefined position.

Use the – and + keys to change the position. Confirm with OK.
- + EXIT OK
The next position can then be selected.
Press OK to save the defined position; Press EXIT to leave the
menu without saving the position. The instrument moves to the
home position and the firmware returns to the Edit Plates menu.
EDIT PLATES
- + EXIT OK
6. Settings Menu TECAN
6.1.2 Options Submenu

The Options submenu has the following structure:
OPTIONS
< > OK
EDIT LLD CHANNEL VACUUMFILTRATION PROCESS CONTROL

- + EXIT OK - + EXIT OK - + EXIT OK
Edit LLD Channel
EDIT LLD CHANNEL Press OK to continue.

- + EXIT OK
SET WASTE 1 Press OK to activate LLD sensor for Waste 1.

“CLR WASTE 1“ will appear when the sensor is
- + EXIT OK active. Press OK again to deactivate.
Press + to move to the next sensor.
SET VAC. WASTE Press OK to activate LLD sensor for Vacuum

Waste. “CLR VAC. WASTE“ will appear when the
- + EXIT OK
sensor is active. Press OK again to deactivate.
SET CHANNEL 1 Press OK to activate LLD sensor for Channel 1.

“CLR CHANNEL 1“ will appear when the sensor is
SET CHANNEL 2 Press OK to activate LLD sensor for Channel 2.

“CLR CHANNEL 2“ will appear when the sensor is
EDIT PLATES Press EXIT when all sensors are set as desired.
- + EXIT OK
Vacuum Filtration
VACUUMFILTRATION
Press OK to continue.
- + EXIT OK
ENABLE VAC Press OK to activate vacuum filtration.

DISABLE VAC appears when Vacuum
EXIT OK Filtration is active.
Press OK again to deactivate Vacuum
Filtration.
Process Control
PROCESS CONTROL
- + EXIT OK
ENABLE PC Press OK to activate Process

EXIT OK Control. DISABLE PC appears when
Process Control is active. Press OK
again to deactivate Process Control.
6.1.3 Bubble Sensor
BUBBLE SENSOR
- + EXIT OK
BUBBLE OFF Press – or + to select between

OFF, LOW, MEDIUM and HIGH.
- + EXIT OK Press OK to confirm.
6. Settings Menu TECAN
6.2 Procedures Menu

The Procedures menu has the following options:
Rinse Start rinse procedures.

Prime Start prime procedures.
Empty Prime Aspirate liquid out of the prime tray.
Tray
Vacuum Prepare the vacuum pressure to prevent delays
Filtration during the running of a wash program.
The Procedures menu has the following structure:
PROCEDURES
< > OK
RINSE PRIME EMPTY PRIME TRAY VACUUM FILTRATION

< > EXIT OK < > EXIT OK < > EXIT OK < > EXIT OK
6.2.1 Rinse
For details, see chapter 8.1 Rinsing.
6.2.2 Prime
For details, see chapter 8.2 Priming.
6.2.3 Empty Prime Tray

Press OK and the prime tray will be aspirated.
6.2.4 Vacuum Filtration

Before preparing vacuum pressure, make sure vacuum filtration is activated in
the Options submenu.
Select Vacuum Filtration in the Procedures menu to build up the vacuum
pressure before a program is started, so that the program will not be delayed
during a run.
VACUUMFILTRATION
< > EXIT OK
VAC STOP Press OK to release VAC PREPARE Press OK to prepare vacuum

built up vacuum pressure. by pressing the cursor
< > EXIT OK < > EXIT OK
pressure. keys it is possible to continue to
VAC STOP.
VAC. -100.0 mBar Press – or + to select vacuum pressure.

(from -100.0 mBar to -850.0 mBar)
- + EXIT OK Press OK to confirm.
TECAN 7. Performance Testing/ Quality Control
7. Performance Testing/
Quality Control
Using Gravimetrical Method
This chapter describes a QC-procedure for the HydroFlex Platform allowing to
check the residual volume and dispense accuracy of the instrument by weighing
a Greiner-F 96-well plate (flat-bottom) on a calibrated lab balance.
Note
To ensure the proper performance of the HydroFlex Platform with the
QC-test procedure described below, it is necessary to adjust the
instrument to the Greiner-F 96-well plate type prior to running this
procedure.
If this adjustment procedure is not performed properly, this might result
in high levels of residual volume left per well and can lead to failure of
the performance test.
For details on how to adjust the HydroFlex Platform to the type of
microplate or strip-plate used, see chapter 6 Settings Menu of this
manual.
Necessary Tools
• Calibrated lab-balance including cover for wind-protection,
capable of reading milligrams
• Greiner F 96-well, flat-bottom, compact microplate
• Small plastic syringe to aliquot Tween 20 solution
• Clean 2.5 liter wash buffer bottle supplied with HydroFlex Platform
• 5 liter waste bottle supplied with HydroFlex Platform
Necessary Chemicals
• 1 liter of distilled water (alternatively deionized water can be used)
• 0.1% Tween 20 solution
7. Performance Testing/ Quality Control TECAN
Preparation of Solution for QC Procedure

• Weigh 0.025 grams of 0.1% Tween 20 solution on lab-balance (use syringe
to handle Tween).
• Add Tween to 1litre of distilled or deionized water.
• Fill solution in empty 2.5 liter wash-buffer bottle supplied
with the HydroFlex Platform and connect tubing to the appropriate channel
on the rear panel of the instrument.
Note
The solution for the QC-procedure can be stored for a maximum of
1 month under refrigeration. If the solution becomes turbid, it must be
disposed of and replaced with a fresh solution.
Programs Necessary for QC Procedure

Define the following programs to perform QC procedures:
QC-DISP
1. Plate Mode
2. Plate Type: Greiner 96-well flat bottom
3. One Cycle
4. One Dispense step with the following parameters:
o POS: OVERFLOW
o VOLUME 200 µl
o CHANNEL 1
o FLOWRATE 200 µl
QC-ASP
1. Plate Mode
2. Plate Type: Greiner 96-well flat bottom
3. One Cycle
4. One Aspiration step with the following parameters:
o Crossw. ASP
o POS: BOTTOM
o TIME: 4 s
o H-SPEED 10 mm/s
o ASP.RATE 3
TECAN 7. Performance Testing/ Quality Control
Residual Volume Check
Note
Ensure that lab balance is calibrated. Ensure that the HydroFlex
Platform and the waste and liquid bottles are placed at the same height
on a vibration-free surface according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Record serial number of lab balance and the HydroFlex Platform used, as well as
name of operator for documentation purposes.
1. Connect HydroFlex Platform to waste bottle as described in this manual
in 2.4.1 Rear Panel Connections.
2. Connect wash-buffer bottle containing solution for QC-procedure to
channel 1 of HydroFlex Platform as described in this manual in
2.4.1 Rear Panel Connections.
3. Prime channel 1 of the HydroFlex Platform as described in 8.2 Priming.
4. Weigh empty and dry Greiner-F microplate specified above on lab-
balance and record TARE.
5. Load Greiner-F microplate on HydroFlex Platform to be checked and
start program QC-DISP to dispense 200µl of liquid into each well.
6. Weigh the filled microplate and record the weight. Check dispensing
accuracy visually.
7. Start program QC-ASP to remove the dispensed liquid out of the wells.
8. Place Greiner-F plate back onto lab balance and record weight of
remaining liquid.
Interpretation of Results for Residual Volume Check

1. Pass: average residual volume per plate has to be <= 0.190 grams.
2. Fail: average residual volume per plate > 0.190 grams.
Interpretation of Results for Dispense Accuracy

1. Pass: dispense accuracy per plate must be
>= 18.8 grams and <= 19.6 grams.
2. Fail: dispense accuracy is outside of the above mentioned range.
7. Performance Testing/ Quality Control TECAN
Troubleshooting the QC Procedure

1. If the HydroFlex Platform has failed the above tests, perform thorough
cleaning step using RINSE NIGHT procedure, see Rinse Night on
page 8-3.
2. Disinfect manifold according to procedure described in chapter
8.8 Instrument Disinfection of this manual.
3. Clean the manifold using the provided cleaning-tool for aspiration
needles.
4. Repeat QC-procedure mentioned above.
5. If results still fail, inform service technician.
WARNING
ALL PARTS OF THE INSTRUMENT THAT COME INTO CONTACT WITH
POTENTIALLY INFECTIOUS MATERIAL MUST BE TREATED AS
POTENTIALLY INFECTIOUS AREAS.
IT IS ADVISABLE TO ADHERE TO APPLICABLE SAFETY
PRECAUTIONS, (INCLUDING THE WEARING OF POWDER-FREE
GLOVES, SAFETY GLASSES AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING) TO AVOID
POTENTIAL INFECTIOUS DISEASE CONTAMINATION WHEN
PERFORMING CLEANING PROCEDURES AND ALSO WHEN MAKING
ADJUSTMENTS TO THE INSTRUMENT.
TECAN 8. Maintenance and Cleaning
8. Maintenance and Cleaning

8.1 Rinsing
Rinsing is performed to flush the liquid system and to prevent needle blockages.
During the rinse procedures, the needles are soaked in the prime tray.
The rinsing procedure should be performed, if the instrument is left to stand or is
switched off at the end of operation.
8.1.1 Rinse Menu

The Rinse menu has the following options:
Rinse Day Perform Rinse Day, if the instrument will be left to stand for a
short time (up to two hours). When Rinse Day is selected, a
Time (how long the instrument rinses before the manifold is
soaked in the prime tray) can also be selected (5 - 99
seconds). Rinse Day can be performed with wash buffer or
distilled water.
Rinse Night Perform Rinse Night for thorough rinsing and if the instrument
will be left to stand for a longer time with the manifold soaking
in distilled or deionized water (e.g. overnight). When Rinse
Night is selected the Time cannot be set. Rinse Night must be
performed with distilled water only.
The Rinse menu has the following structure:
RINSE
< > OK
RINSE DAY RINSE NIGHT

< > OK < > OK
8. Maintenance and Cleaning TECAN
Rinse Day
This procedure is used to rinse the liquid system if the instrument is to be left to
stand for up to 2 hours, for longer times use Rinse Night (see Rinse Night on
page 8-3).
Alternatively, it can be used to rinse the liquid system after the instrument has
been left for a long time.
Distilled water or a wash buffer can be used with this procedure.
RINSE Press OK to enter the Rinse menu.

< > OK
RINSE DAY Select and confirm RINSE DAY

< > OK procedure.
RINSE SOLUTION OK? Confirm that the rinsing solution and the
< > YES tube are in the bottle.
WASTE BOTTLE OK? Confirm that the waste bottle is empty

< > YES
CHANNEL 1 Select required channel

- + EXIT OK (1 - 4, depending on instrument configuration)
TIME: 10 s Press OK and the wash system is rinsed for the

set rinse time. The prime tray is filled with liquid
- + EXIT OK
and the manifold is lowered into it.
RINSE DAY Press Stop to abort the rinse

STOP procedure.
RINSE DAY END appears on the display when the

STOP END procedure is finished. The manifold remains
immersed in the prime tray until End is
pressed. Press END to finish the rinse
procedure and the firmware returns to the
Program menu.
PROGRAM
< > OK
Rinse Night
This procedure is used to thoroughly rinse the liquid system and then soak the
manifold in the prime tray full of solution at the end of operation.
Use only distilled water with this procedure.
RINSE Press OK to enter the Rinse menu.

< > OK
RINSE NIGHT Select and confirm

< > OK RINSE NIGHT procedure
RINSE SOLUTION OK? Confirm that the rinsing solution

< > YES and tube are in the bottle
WASTE BOTTLE OK? Confirm that the

< > YES waste bottle is empty
Select the required channel

CHANNEL 1 (1 - 4, depending on instrument configuration)
- + EXIT OK Press OK and the wash system is rinsed
The prime tray is filled with liquid and the
manifold is lowered into it.
RINSE NIGHT Press Stop to abort the rinse

STOP procedure.
Do not switch the instrument off.
RINSE NIGHT END appears on the display when the

procedure is finished. The manifold
STOP END
remains immersed in the prime tray until
End is pressed. Press END to finish the
rinse procedure and the firmware returns
to the Program menu.
PROGRAM
< > OK
8.2 Priming
Priming is performed to fill the liquid system of the HydroFlex Platform with liquid
and to remove all air from the tubes. A priming step must also be performed when
switching between buffers.
If different wash buffers are used in a wash program, the instrument performs a
prime step automatically before switching to the next liquid. A prime step is also
automatically performed before a program is started.
If the instrument will be left to stand for a longer time, priming must be performed
to remove all liquid from the system. For this purpose, remove all tubes from the
liquid bottles.
WARNING
BEFORE THE INSTRUMENT IS USED, ALL DISPENSING CHANNELS
NEEDED FOR THE WASH PROGRAM MUST BE PRIMED TO FILL THE
LIQUID SYSTEM WITH THE REQUIRED LIQUID.
IF THE PRIMING PROCEDURE IS NOT PERFORMED PROPERLY, THIS
CAN RESULT IN INSUFFICIENT WASHING OF THE WELLS AND CAN
ENSURE THAT THE BOTTLE OF THE PRIMING SOLUTION IS ALWAYS
FULL AT THE BEGINNING OF THE PRIMING PROCEDURE AND CHECK
THAT THE INLET FILTERS IN THE LIQUID TUBES ARE CLEAN.
Caution
Ensure that the dispensing and aspiration pumps are not run for longer
than a few minutes without liquid or they will be damaged.
Caution
Do not use the instrument to aspirate or dispense any acidic solutions
as this could damage the instrument.
Priming is performed using the following procedure:
PRIME Select and confirm PRIME procedure

< > OK
PRIME SOLUTION OK? Confirm rinsing solution and tube in bottle

< > YES
WASTE BOTTLE OK? Confirm waste bottle is empty

< > YES
TIME: 10 s Liquid system will be primed for set time

- + EXIT OK
CHANNEL 1 Select required channel

- + EXIT OK (1 - 4, depending on instrument configuration)
Select OK and the prime procedure starts
PROGRAM Instrument is ready to perform wash

< > OK procedures
WARNING
WASTE BOTTLE – LIQUID LEVEL
BOTTLE TO AVOID POTENTIAL OVERFLOW. AS THE CONTENTS OF
THE WASTE BOTTLE ARE POTENTIALLY INFECTIOUS.
POTENTIAL INFECTIOUS DISEASE CONTAMINATION WHEN EMPTYING
/ HANDLING A WASTE BOTTLE (SEE 0 CLEANING WASTE BOTTLES).
8.3 Cleaning Procedures
WARNING
The most important cleaning procedure for this instrument is to rinse the liquid
system with distilled water before the instrument is left to stand or switched off at
the end of each day.
The manifold should be removed and thoroughly cleaned at least once every six
months or whenever one or more of the needles are blocked.
8.3.1 Cleaning the Cover and Display

The outer surface of the instrument and the display may be cleaned periodically
using a tissue moistened with a mild detergent solution (see chapter
8.5 Preventive Maintenance Plan).
Caution
Never use Acetone as it will damage the covers.
8.3.2 Cleaning the Liquid System

To clean the liquid system, perform Rinse and Prime procedures as described in
chapter 8.5 Preventive Maintenance Plan.
Caution
If the manifold is not rinsed, the needles will become blocked.
If this occurs, the manifold will need expensive repairs
or will have to be replaced.
The manifold can be cleaned using:

1. The supplied cleaning needles (accessory box). The small cleaning
needle is for the dispensing needles and the large cleaning needle is for
the aspirating needles.
Carefully push the cleaning needles into the aspirating and dispensing
needles. Rinse the manifold block with distilled water to ensure that all
particles have been removed.
2. A gentle ultrasonic bath of warm distilled water for 15 minutes
(max. five times, manifold must be removed from the instrument).
3. Autoclaving (max. 130 °C , max. five times, manifold must be removed
from the instrument – Do not autoclave manifolds with the Process
Control option!).
4. Reinstall the manifold if necessary (see chapter 8.6 Replacing the
Manifold).
5. After the manifold has been cleaned, switch the instrument on and
perform the priming procedure using distilled water.
6.
Caution
Do not use an autoclave to clean
manifolds with the Process Control option!
Manifolds with the Process Control option must only be cleaned in an
ultrasonic bath. If additional cleaning is required, use the delivered
cleaning needles and adhere to applicable safety precautions, (including
the wearing of powder-free gloves, safety glasses and protective
clothing) to avoid potential infectious disease contamination.
Cleaning Waste Bottles

Before cleaning the waste bottles empty them according to disposal regulations
(see 8.9.3 Disposal of Operating Material).
The bottles must be cleaned regularly depending on the applications, using a mild
detergent.
WARNING
WHEN HANDLING WASTE BOTTLES, IT IS ADVISABLE TO ADHERE TO
APPLICABLE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS, (INCLUDING THE WEARING OF
POWDER-FREE GLOVES, SAFETY GLASSES AND PROTECTIVE
CLOTHING) TO AVOID POTENTIAL INFECTIOUS DISEASE
CONTAMINATION.
8.4 Liquid or Foam Spills
WARNING
ALWAYS SWITCH-OFF THE HYDROFLEX PLATFORM BEFORE
REMOVING ANY KIND OF SPILLS ON THE INSTRUMENT.
ALL SPILLS (LIQUID OR FOAM) MUST BE TREATED AS POTENTIALLY
INFECTIOUS. THEREFORE, ALWAYS ADHERE TO APPLICABLE SAFETY
POTENTIAL INFECTIOUS DISEASE CONTAMINATION.
ADDITIONALLY, ALL RESULTING WASTE FROM THE CLEAN-UP MUST
BE TREATED AS POTENTIALLY INFECTIOUS AND THE DISPOSAL
MUST BE PERFORMED ACCORDING TO THE INFORMATION GIVEN IN
8.9.3 DISPOSAL OF OPERATING MATERIAL.
IF THE SPILL OCCURS IN THE INSTRUMENT,
A SERVICE TECHNICIAN IS REQUIRED.
Spilling of liquid or foam may occur when the HydroFlex Platform is operated
improperly such as:
1. Used microplate not matching installed manifold.
2. Position of the strips in the strip-plate do not match the positions defined
in the program used for processing.
3. Plate parameters not properly adjusted.
4. Waste bottle not emptied when liquid level or foam level reaches
maximum filling level.
5. No anti-foaming agent used with wash buffers showing strong tendency
to foam.
Always remove spills immediately after they have occurred. Use paper tissue to
soak-up spills and wipe-surface dry.
WARNING
WASTE BOTTLE - LIQUID LEVEL
BOTTLE TO AVOID POTENTIAL OVERFLOW.
THE CONTENTS OF WASTE BOTTLE ARE POTENTIALLY INFECTIOUS,
SO IT IS IMPORTANT TO WEAR PROTECTIVE CLOTHING (GLOVES, LAB
COAT AND SAFETY GLASSES) WHEN EMPTYING / HANDLING A WASTE
BOTTLE.
8.5 Preventive Maintenance Plan
WARNING
WARNING
RISK OF FIRE AND EXPLOSION!
PRIOR TO CLEANING THE OUTER SURFACE OF THE INSTRUMENT
AND THE DISPLAY, SWITCH OFF THE INSTRUMENT AND DISCONNECT
IT FROM THE MAIN POWER SUPPLY!
8.5.1 Daily
1. Prime the liquid system if necessary.
2. Perform Rinse Day with distilled water or wash buffer, if the instrument is
left to stand for a short time (up to 2 hours).
3. Perform Rinse Night only with distilled water, if the instrument is left to
stand overnight.
4. If necessary (due to particles, soiling, etc.), prime the instrument several
times with distilled water.
5. If the instrument will be left to stand for a longer period of time (more
than one day), prime with distilled water and then prime without liquid.
8.5.2 Weekly
1. Perform Rinse Night with distilled water.
2. Prime the instrument without liquid to empty the entire liquid system.
3. Check the filter(s) in the liquid bottle(s) for particles and rinse liquid
filter(s) with distilled water.
4. Clean the plate carrier guide bar with 70% ethanol.
8.5.3 Every Six Months

1. Clean the plate carrier guide bar with 70% ethanol.
2. Check the centering mechanism of the plate carrier and clean if
necessary with 70 % ethanol.
3. Clean the manifold aspirating and dispensing needles using the cleaning
needles supplied with the instrument.
Note
Clean the aspirating and dispensing needles periodically or
immediately if they become clogged with particles or crystals.
8.5.4 Yearly (Service Engineer Required)

1. Save the customer specific programs using the HydroControl software.
2. Disinfect the instrument. (See 8.8 Instrument Disinfection)
3. Replace all aspirating and dispensing tubes.
4. Replace the filter(s) in the liquid bottle(s).
5. Replace the manifold sealing and clean the inner parts of the manifold.
6. Check the aspirating pump and replace if necessary.
7. Recalibrate the dispensing pump.
(See HydroFlex Technical Manual - Chapter 3).
Use Quality Check (see chapter 7 Performance Testing/ Quality Control)
to test dispensing and aspirating accuracy.
8. Download the previously saved customer specific programs to the
instrument.
8.6 Replacing the Manifold
WARNING
AFTER THE INSTRUMENT HAS BEEN USED,
THE MANIFOLD MAY BE INFECTIOUS!
BEFORE THE MANIFOLD IS REMOVED IT MUST BE THOROUGHLY
DISINFECTED .
IT IS ADVISABLE TO ADHERE TO APPLICABLE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS,
(INCLUDING THE WEARING OF POWDER-FREE GLOVES, SAFETY
GLASSES AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING) TO AVOID POTENTIAL
INFECTIOUS DISEASE CONTAMINATION.
WARNING
PRIME THE INSTRUMENT WITHOUT LIQUID TO EMPTY ALL LIQUID
FROM THE SYSTEM, BEFORE REMOVING THE MANIFOLD.
8.6.1 General Description of the Manifold

The HydroFlex Platform is delivered with the manifold already installed.
The instrument can be used with the following types of manifolds:
• Standard 8 and 16-way
• Process Control for 8 and 16-way manifold
The manifolds for the HydroFlex Platform have the same basic components:
Dispensing Tubes
Locating Pin
Locating Pin
Aspirating Tubes
Fig. 8.1 The Rear of the Manifold
Manifold for Instrument with Process Control (PC)

The manifolds for instruments with process control have circuit boards with one
(8-way manifold) or two (16-way manifold) ribbon cables.
Fig. 8.2 8-way Manifold with PC Fig. 8.3 16-way Manifold with PC
8.6.2 Removing the Manifold (without Process Control)
WARNING
PRIME WITHOUT LIQUID TO REMOVE ANY LIQUIDS FROM THE TUBING
SYSTEM.
The manifold should be removed and thoroughly cleaned at least once every
6 months or whenever needles become blocked.
1. Lift the manifold arm and remove the black manifold arm guard plate by
removing the three screws using the Allen key provided.
3 screws
2. Lift the manifold arm and remove the two screws that attach the manifold
to the instrument using the Allen key provided.
2 screws
3. Carefully pull the tubing off the connectors on the rear of the manifold
and remove the manifold.
8.6.3 Removing the Manifold (with Process Control)

The manifold should be removed and thoroughly cleaned at least once every
6 months or whenever needles become blocked.
1. Lift the manifold arm and remove the black manifold arm guard plate by
removing the three screws using the Allen key provided.
3 screws
2. Remove the two screws that attach the manifold to the bracket using the
Allen key provided.
2 screws
3. Carefully pull the tubing off the connectors on the rear of the manifold.
4. Carefully remove the small ribbon cable(s) from the cable clasp.
Cable clasp
5. Carefully remove the small ribbon cable(s) from the connector block on
the left hand side of the circuit board in the manifold arm (only one cable
for the 8-way manifold with PC, labeled “8” in the picture below; two
cables for the 16-way manifold with PC).
16
6. Remove the manifold from the instrument.
8.6.4 Installing the Manifold (without Process Control)

The standard manifolds are installed using the following procedure:
1. Lift the manifold arm.
2. Carefully fit the manifold onto the manifold arm and ensure that the
locating pins are correctly inserted through the holes in the bracket.
Locating Pin Locating Pin
2 screws
3. Tighten the manifold into place using the two screws using the Allen key
provided.
4. Fit the dispensing tubes (marked blue) onto the top connector on the rear
of the manifold.
5. Fit the aspirating tubes (marked red) onto the two bottom connectors on
the rear of the manifold (marked with red labels).
6. Attach the black manifold guard plate with the 3 screws using the Allen
key provided.
3 screws
7. Lower the manifold arm and prime the instrument before starting a wash
program.
8.6.5 Installing the Manifold (with Process Control)

The standard manifolds are installed using the following procedure:
1. Lift the manifold arm.
2. Carefully fit the manifold onto the manifold arm and ensure that the
locating pins are correctly inserted through the holes in the bracket.
Locating Pin Locating Pin
2 screws
3. Tighten the manifold into place using the two screws using the Allen key
provided.
4. Fit the dispensing tube (marked blue) onto the top connector on the rear
of the manifold.
5. Fit the aspirating tubing (marked red) onto the two bottom connectors on
the rear of the manifold (marked with red labels).
6. Carefully secure the small ribbon cable(s) in the cable clasp.
Cable clasp
7. Connect the small ribbon cable(s) onto the connector block on the left
hand side of the circuit board in the manifold arm (only one cable for the
8-way manifold with PC, labeled “8” in the picture below; two cables for
the 16-way manifold with PC).
16
8. Attach the black manifold arm guard plate with the three screws using the
Allen key provided.
3 screws
9. Lower the manifold arm and prime the instrument before starting a wash
program.
8.7 Replacing the Plate Carrier
WARNING
The instrument is delivered with the plate carrier already installed. If the plate
carrier is removed, for example for cleaning, it can be replaced using the
following procedure:
1. Lift the manifold arm

2. Slightly tilt the plate carrier towards the right.
3. Carefully slide the plate carrier with the prime tray at the rear over the
guide bar.
Guide Bar
Prime Tray
The plate carrier must be slightly tilted so that it goes over the pin that activates
the automatic microplate centering mechanism.
To reinstall the plate carrier follow the procedure listed below:

1. Push the plate carrier so that it is fully inserted into the instrument.
2. Lower the plate carrier.
3. Lower the manifold arm.
8.8 Instrument Disinfection
WARNING
THE DISINFECTION PROCEDURE SHOULD BE PERFORMED
ACCORDING TO NATIONAL, REGIONAL, AND LOCAL REGULATIONS.
WARNING
PERFORMING THE DISINFECTION PROCEDURE.
It is very important that the instrument is thoroughly disinfected before it is

removed from the laboratory or any servicing is performed on it.
Before the instrument is returned to the service center for service or repair,
it must be disinfected and a disinfection certificate completed by the
operating authority. If a disinfection certificate is not supplied, the
instrument may not be accepted by the service center or it may be held by
the customs authorities.
8.8.1 Disinfection Procedure

The instrument should be disinfected using a solution of 70% ethanol.
WARNING
RISK OF FIRE AND EXPLOSION!
PRIOR TO CLEANING THE OUTER SURFACE OF THE INSTRUMENT
AND THE DISPLAY, SWITCH OFF THE INSTRUMENT AND DISCONNECT
IT FROM THE MAIN POWER SUPPLY!
Caution
Before starting the disinfection procedure
use a rinse procedure (Rinse Day)
with distilled or deionized water (lab quality) to flush the system.
WARNING
THE DISINFECTION PROCEDURE SHOULD BE PERFORMED IN A
WELL-VENTILATED ROOM BY AUTHORIZED TRAINED PERSONNEL
WEARING DISPOSABLE POWDER-FREE GLOVES, PROTECTIVE
GLASSES AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING.
Please note that the disinfectant can influence the performance of your
instrument if it comes into contact with the electronics!
The following procedure should be used to disinfect the instrument:
1. Wear protective powder-free gloves, protective glasses and protective
clothing.
2. Prepare an autoclave bag for all disposables used during the disinfection
procedure, label it with autoclave tape and put it in the autoclave or follow
the procedure defined in chapter 8.9.3 Disposal of Operating Material.
3. Prime the liquid system with disinfectant. Perform the Rinse - Night
procedure with disinfectant solution and stop the procedure after five
hours.
4. Switch off the instrument and disconnect the instrument from the mains
power supply.
5. Disconnect the instrument from any accessories that are used for
example: Liquid Level Detection System, computer, etc. Accessories that
should be shipped together with the instrument have to be included in the
disinfection procedure.
6. Carefully spray the disinfectant solution (or use a disposable soft tissue
paper towel soaked in the disinfectant) on all outer surfaces of the
instrument.
7. After a minimum contact time of 10 minutes, repeat step 6 of this
procedure.
8. Wipe dry the outer surfaces of the instrument.
9. Pack the instrument and its accessories.

10. Wash your hands with a mild detergent and then disinfect them.
11. Complete a disinfection certificate and attach it to the outside of the box
so that it is clearly visible. (See below for an example of the disinfection
certificate).
Disinfection Certificate
A disinfection certificate label MUST be completed and attached to the top of the
package (visible from the outside of the shipping container!) in which the
instrument is returned, before shipping it to the service center for service or
repair.
The instrument MUST be disinfected at the operating authority’s site.
The disinfection procedure must be performed in a well-ventilated room by
authorized and trained personnel wearing disposable powder-free gloves,
protective glasses and protective clothing.
The disinfection procedure should be performed according to national, regional,
and local regulations.
I declare that the instrument in this package has been decontaminated or

disinfected to remove or inactivate any biological material, which could be
dangerous to service personnel, or that it has never been exposed to any
hazardous biological material.
Contact person.......................................................................................................
Company:...............................................................................................................
Function: ................................................................................................................
Phone/Fax:.............................................................................................................
E-mail: ....................................................................................................................
Date of decontamination: .......................................................................................
Method of decontamination applied:......................................................................
...............................................................................................................................
Date:.......................................................................................................................
Signature:...............................................................................................................
8.9 Disposal of Instrument

8.9.1 Introduction
This chapter gives instructions on how to lawfully dispose of waste material
accumulating in connection with the HydroFlex Platform.
Caution
Observe all federal, state and local environmental regulations.
ATTENTION
Directive 2002/96/EC on waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE)
Negative environmental impacts associated with the treatment of
electrical and electronic equipment waste
• Do not treat electrical and electronic equipment as unsorted
municipal waste.
• Collect waste from electrical and electronic equipment separately.
8.9.2 Disposal of Packing Material

According to Directive 94/62/EC on packaging and packaging waste, the
manufacturer is responsible for the disposal of packing material.
Returning Packing Material

If you do not intend to keep the packing material for future use, e.g. for transport
and storage purposes:
Return the packaging of the product, spare parts and options via the field service
engineer to the manufacturer.
8.9.3 Disposal of Operating Material
WARNING
CHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL HAZARDS CAN BE ASSOCIATED WITH
THE WASTE MATERIAL (MICROPLATE) OF PROCESSES RUN ON THE
HYDROFLEX PLATFORM.
TREAT THE USED MICROPLATE, WASTE BOTTLE, PRIME TRAY ON
THE PLATE CARRIER, DISPOSABLES AND ALL SUBSTANCES USED,
IN ACCORDANCE WITH GOOD LABORATORY PRACTICE GUIDELINES.
8.9.4 Disposal of the HydroFlex Platform

Please contact your local Tecan service representative before disposing of the
instrument.
Caution
Always disinfect the instrument before disposal.
Pollution degree 2 (IEC/EN 61010-1)

Method of Disposal Contaminated Waste
WARNING
DEPENDING ON THE APPLICATIONS, PARTS OF THE HYDROFLEX
PLATFORM MAY HAVE BEEN IN CONTACT WITH BIOHAZARDOUS
MATERIAL.
• MAKE SURE TO TREAT THIS MATERIAL ACCORDING TO THE
APPLICABLE SAFETY STANDARDS AND REGULATIONS.
• ALWAYS DECONTAMINATE ALL PARTS BEFORE DISPOSAL
(I.E. CLEAN AND DISINFECT).
TECAN 9. Trouble Shooting and Error Messages
9. Trouble Shooting and

Error Messages
9.1 Errors
The following errors can occur, which will not yield an error message from the
standard instrument’s firmware:
Error Description Possible Causes See Chapter
Display and LED dark Fuse is defective. Contact your local Service
Representative
No or incorrect dispensing Dispensing needles blocked. 8.3.2 Cleaning the Liquid System
No or incorrect aspirating Aspirating needles blocked. 8.3.2 Cleaning the Liquid System
9.2 Error Messages

9.2.1 Standard Instrument: Error Messages
Plate Error
If the plate sensor does not recognize the plate or no plate is inserted on the plate
carrier, the following message is displayed:
NO PLATE
OK
Press OK and insert the plate correctly on the plate carrier
Program Too Big Error

If the program has been defined with more than 60 process steps (each cycle is
worth 2 steps), the following message is displayed:
PROGR: TOO BIG

OK
Press OK and define a program with less than 60 process steps.
9. Trouble Shooting and Error Messages TECAN
Transport Error
If the instrument cannot move the plate carrier, the following message is
displayed:
INIT ERROR
OK
Press OK to remove the error message and the instrument returns to the standby
mode.
Check that the plate carrier is correctly inserted and that the plate carrier system
is clear.
Manifold Arm Error

If the manifold arm cannot be lowered correctly due to obstruction of its normal
movement, the following message is displayed:
MANIFOLD HEAD UP
EXIT
1. Press EXIT to remove the error message and return to the standby
mode.
2. Check that the microplate is correctly inserted into the plate carrier.
3. Check that the manifold arm is not blocked.
Check if the needles are catching on the side of the microplate; use the Settings
menu to adjust the positions for that particular type of microplate.
9.2.2 Liquid Level Detection: Error Messages

Waste Bottle Full at Start
When the selected program is confirmed, the instrument checks if the waste
bottle is full. If it is full, the following message is displayed:
LLD ERROR
OK
Press OK to remove the message and return to the start and the following
message is displayed:
START
< > OK
Empty the waste bottle and restart the program.
Waste Bottle Full during Procedure

If the waste bottle becomes full during the washing procedure, the instrument will
beep; however, no error message is displayed during or after the instrument has
completed the washing procedure.
Caution
The instrument does not stop a procedure
when the waste bottle becomes full.
WARNING
Waste Bottle – Foaming
THE LIQUID LEVEL SENSOR IS UNABLE TO DETECT FOAM;
THEREFORE IT IS IMPORTANT THAT THE WASTE BOTTLE IS EMPTIED
AS SOON AS THE FOAM LEVEL HAS REACHED THE MAXIMUM FILLING
LEVEL INDICATED ON THE WASTE BOTTLE.
WARNING
WASTE BOTTLE – FOAMING
WHEN USING WASH BUFFERS THAT SHOW A STRONG TENDENCY OF
FOAMING, EMPTY THE WASTE BOTTLE AS SOON AS THE FOAM-
LEVEL HAS REACHED THE MAXIMUM FILLING LEVEL INDICATED ON
THE WASTE BOTTLE. ADDITIONALLY, ADD A COMMERCIALLY
AVAILABLE ANTI-FOAMING AGENT (SUCH AS SILICONE OIL) TO THE
EMPTY WASTE BOTTLE TO REDUCE FOAMING.
IF FOAMING CONTINUES TO BE A PROBLEM, WE RECOMMEND
SWITCHING TO A LARGER WASTE BOTTLE (NOT PROVIDED WITH THE
HYDROFLEX PLATFORM) AND ADDITIONALLY INCREASE THE
CONCENTRATION OF ANTI-FOAMING AGENT IN THE WASTE BOTTLE.
TO HELP FACILITATE BREAKDOWN OF THE FOAM IN THE WASTE
BOTTLE, CAREFULLY SWIRL THE WASTE BOTTLE FROM TIME-TO-
TIME TO IMPROVE MIXING BETWEEN FOAM LAYER AND ANTI-
FOAMING AGENT.
REFILL ANTI-FOAMING AGENT AFTER EMPTYING WASTE BOTTLE.
FOR EXAMPLE, WHEN USING THE WACKER ANTI-FOAM EMULSION
SE47 (WACKER ARTICLE CODE 21640582), THE RECOMMENDED
CONCENTRATION IS 1ML OF ANTIFOAMING AGENT FOR 1 LITER OF
WASTE SOLUTION.
FOR ANTIFOAMING AGENTS FROM OTHER MANUFACTURERS, USE
CONCENTRATIONS AS RECOMMENDED BY CORRESPONDING
MANUFACTURERS.
Liquid Bottle Empty

If the liquid bottle is empty before a program is started, the following message is
displayed:
LLD ERROR
OK
Fill the liquid bottle and press OK to remove the message and continue with the
program.
9. Trouble Shooting and Error Messages TECAN
9.2.3 Process Control: Error Messages

Liquid Not Dispensed During the Wash Procedure
If the instrument detects that one or more needles are not dispensing solution or
non-conductive liquid is being used, the following error messages are scrolled on
the display:
PC DISP ERR
EXIT
1. Press EXIT to remove the error message and to return to the standby
mode.
2. Check that the reagent bottle has enough solution and the inlet tube is
fitted into the solution.
3. Use the Prime menu to fill the liquid system with solution.
4. Check that the dispensing needles are clear.
Caution
The HydroFlex Platform cannot end the wash procedure.
Please end the test manually or dispose of the microplate!
PC System Error
If the Process Control board does not respond, the following error message is
displayed:
PC SYS ERR
EXIT
Switch off the instrument to clear the display. Ensure that the small ribbon cable
and the interface cable (from the main board) are connected correctly to the
Process control board. Switch the instrument on again.
Contact the service engineer to disable the Process Control option in the
Service menu and to correct the problem.
PC Function Error
If the Process Control board needle status can not be deleted, the following error
message is displayed:
PC FUNCT. ERR
EXIT
Press exit to remove the error message and return to the standby mode.
The problem is caused by an electrical conducting liquid connection from the
dispensing to the aspirating needles on the manifold. The underside of the
manifold must then be cleaned using, for example, distilled water.
PC Aspiration Error
When the well is not correctly aspirated the following error is displayed:
PC ASP ERR
EXIT
The problem is caused by a blocked aspirating needle/tube or the aspirating

pump may not be functioning correctly. Use the cleaning needles to clean the
aspirating needles (see 8.3.2 Cleaning the Liquid System) or have the pump
replaced by a service technician.
Caution
The HydroFlex Platform cannot end the wash procedure.
Please finish the test manually or dispose of the microplate!
9.2.4 Vacuum Filtration: Error Message

The following error message appears on the display:
NO ASP AT VACFIL
OK
Press OK to remove the error message and to return to the standby menu.
This error occurs when an ASPIRATION step is performed with vacuum filtration
enabled.
TECAN Index
Index
Numbers refer to pages.
A E
Area of Application ......................................... 2-2 Edit LLD Channel ........................................... 6-2
Aspirate Edit Plates ...................................................... 6-1
Process Step............................................... 5-5 End of Operation ............................................ 4-7
Aspirating Modes............................................ 4-4 Error
Aspiration Error............................................. 2-11 Aspiration.................................................. 2-11
Aspiration Position Diagrams ......................... 5-5 Dispense................................................... 2-11
B Liquid Bottle Empty..................................... 9-3
Bubble Sensor ................................................ 6-3 Manifold Arm............................................... 9-2
C PC Aspiration.............................................. 9-5
Cleaning.......................................................... 8-1 PC Function ....................................... 2-11, 9-4
Cover and Display....................................... 8-6 PC System......................................... 2-11, 9-4
Liquid System ............................................. 8-7 Plate............................................................ 9-1
Procedures.................................................. 8-6 Program Too Big......................................... 9-1
Waste Bottles.............................................. 8-7 Transport .................................................... 9-2
Clear Program .............................................. 5-10 Error Messages .............................................. 9-1
Conductance of Standard Wash Buffers ...... 2-12 Liquid Level Detection Option..................... 9-2
Connection Diagram....................................... 3-5 Process Control Option............................... 9-4

Standard Instrument ................................... 9-1
D
Errors.............................................................. 9-1
Define/Edit a Program .................................... 5-4
Disinfection ................................................... 8-20 F
Certificate.................................................. 8-22 Firmware ........................................................ 4-2
Procedure ................................................. 8-21 Firmware Menus............................................. 4-2
Dispense I
Process Step............................................... 5-6 Installation Procedure..................................... 3-4
Dispense Accuracy......................................... 7-1 Instrument
Result interpretation.................................... 7-3 Description.................................................. 2-6
Dispense Error.............................................. 2-11 Disinfection ............................................... 8-20
Dispensing Position Diagrams ....................... 5-6 Disposal .................................................... 8-23
Disposal Firmware..................................................... 4-2
HydroFlex Platform ................................... 8-24 Options ....................................................... 2-8
Operating Material .................................... 8-24 Safety.......................................................... 1-1
Packing Material ....................................... 8-23 Specifications.............................................. 2-4
Drip Mode ....................................................... 4-5 Switching on ............................................... 4-1
Intended Use .................................................. 2-2
2007-02 Instructions for Use for HydroFlex Platform No. 30026397 Rev. No. 1.1 Index
Index TECAN
L Process Control.............................................. 6-3

Liquid Level Detection (LLD) ........................ 2-12 Requirements ........................................... 2-12
Fitting and Connecting ................................ 3-6 Process Control (PC) ................................... 2-11
Liquid Not Dispensed During the Wash Process Step
Procedure ................................................... 9-4 Aspirate....................................................... 5-5
Liquid or Foam Spills ...................................... 8-8 Dispense..................................................... 5-6
Liquid System Diagram .................................. 2-8 Soak............................................................ 5-8
M Vacuum Filtration........................................ 5-8
Maintenance ................................................... 8-1 Wash........................................................... 5-7
Daily ............................................................ 8-9 Program Menu................................................ 5-2
Every Six Months ...................................... 8-10 Q
Weekly ........................................................ 8-9 QC Procedure
Yearly ........................................................ 8-10 Troubleshooting .......................................... 7-4
Manifold QC-ASP.......................................................... 7-2
General Description .................................. 8-12 QC-DISP ........................................................ 7-2
Replacing .................................................. 8-11 Quality Control Using Gravimetrical Method .. 7-1
with Process Control ................................. 8-12
R
Installing ................................................ 8-17
Rear Panel Connections ................................ 2-7
Removal ................................................ 8-14
Requirements
without Process Control
Power.......................................................... 3-1
Installing ................................................ 8-16
Working Area .............................................. 3-1
Removal ................................................ 8-13
Residual Volume ............................................ 7-1
Microplate Requirements.............................. 2-13
Residual Volume Check ................................. 7-3
O Result interpretation.................................... 7-3
Operating Instructions .................................... 4-2 Rinse Day................................................ 8-1, 8-2
Options Submenu........................................... 6-2 Rinse Menu .................................................... 8-1
P Rinse Night.............................................. 8-1, 8-3
Packing Material Rinse Procedure
Disposal of ................................................ 8-23 Day.............................................................. 8-1
Returning .................................................. 8-23 Night ........................................................... 8-1
PC Function Error......................................... 2-11 Rinsing ........................................................... 8-1
PC System Error........................................... 2-11 S
Performance Testing ...................................... 7-1 Safety ............................................................. 1-1
Plate Carrier Settings Menu ................................................ 6-1
Replacing .................................................. 8-19 Show Program................................................ 5-9
Power Requirements ...................................... 3-1 Soak ............................................................... 5-8
Preventive Maintenance Plan......................... 8-9 Spills ............................................................... 8-8
Priming............................................................ 8-4 Starting a Program ......................................... 5-3
Priming Procedure.......................................... 8-5
T
Procedures Menu ........................................... 6-4
Trouble Shooting and Error Messages .......... 9-1
Index Instructions for Use for HydroFlex Platform No. 30026397 Rev. No. 1.1 2007-02
TECAN Index
U W
Unpacking and Inspection Wash
Checklist ..................................................... 3-2 Process Step .............................................. 5-7
Procedure for .............................................. 3-1 Wash Modes .................................................. 4-3
V Wash Procedure
Vacuum Filtration.....................................2-9, 6-3 Performing .................................................. 4-2
Process Step............................................... 5-8 Washing Positions.......................................... 4-3
Working Area Requirements .......................... 3-1
2007-02 Instructions for Use for HydroFlex Platform No. 30026397 Rev. No. 1.1 Index

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TECAN

Instructions for Use for

Document Part No.: 30026397

Tecan Affiliates and Service Centers

Belgium China France

Germany Italy Japan

Netherlands Scandinavia Spain (Barcelona)

Spain (Madrid) Portugal Switzerland

United Kingdom USA USA

Declaration for EU Certificate

Intended Use of Instrument

About the Instructions for Use (IFU)

Warnings, Cautions and Notes

Indicates the possible presence of biologically hazardous material.

Indicates the possible presence of a strong magnetic field.

7. Performance Testing/ Quality Control .................................... 7-1

8.8 Instrument Disinfection .............................................................. 8-20

9. Trouble Shooting and Error Messages

2.2 Area of Application

2.2.2 HydroFlex Platform Configurations and Options

Options for factory-installation on HydroFlex models include:

2.3 Instrument Specifications

Keyboard Four key membrane keyboard

Number of dispensing Up to four channels

Manifold types 8 and 16-way manifold

Dispensing accuracy <= 2 %

Dispensing uniformity <= 4 % CV

Residual volume Measured under following conditions:

1. Crosswise aspiration, 8-way manifold, aspiration rate 3, aspiration time

2. Single aspiration, 8-way manifold, aspiration rate 3, aspiration time 4 s,

Vacuum range From -150 to -850 mBar absolute pressure

Operation 15°C to 35°C (59°F to 95°F)

Storage -20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F)

Operation 20 % to 80 % non condensing

Storage 10 % to 80 % non condensing

Method of disposal Electronic waste

2.4 Instrument Description

Prime Tray (Prime Wanne) Guide Bar

2.4.1 Rear Panel Connections

Main Power Socket

Inlets for Liquid Channels 1-4

HydroFlex Platform Name Plate

2.4.2 Liquid System Diagram

Marked red Dispensing Pump

Fig. 2.3 HydroFlex Platform

2.5 HydroFlex Platform Options

Vacuum Filtration This option is for collecting desired substances by filtration

2.5.1 Vacuum Filtration

Vacuum Filtration Connection Diagram

Vacuum pump Vacuum-

Fig. 2.4 HydroFlex: Vacuum Filtration Connection Diagram

2.5.2 Process Control (PC)

The following errors can be detected using this method:

Requirements for Process Control

Conductance of Some Standard Wash Buffers

The following values were measured using a normal dilution:

Wash buffer Ortho Diagnostic System: 1:20 - 14.0 mS/cm

Wash buffer SIGMA:

2.5.3 Liquid Level Detection (LLD)