ScanArray Microarray AutoLoader

The new ScanArray Autoloader is an automated, batch loading option for ScanArray Microarray Analysis Systems. This revolutionary and patent-pending autoloader option for the ScanArray supports automated scanning of up to 20 microarrays. It is a direct-to-glass system that requires no sub-frames to be installed prior to scanning. ScanArray 4000 and 5000 instruments can be purchased with, or upgraded to, this automatic microarray loading s y s t e m .

Automated microarray scanning is facilitated through the use of patent-pending ScanArray microarray cassettes. Cassettes are plastic injection molded enclosures that are removable from the scanning instrument so that a user can easily carry them around from bench-to-bench. They allow 20 microarrays to be compart mentalized in one mechanism for delivery to the scanning system.

Cassettes employ a unique slide retention mechanism that does not allow the microarray to fall-out if accidentally tipped or rotated. As an option, cassettes are also provided with color-coded plastic covers for convenient storage and identification.

Once the microarrays have been loaded into a cassette, the user can then insert the cassette into the ScanArray instrument. Cassettes are guided and positively locked into the proper location. ScanArray Windows NTsoftware then controls the loading, scan-ning and unloading of microarrays. Key software features include real-time batch status display, e-mail notification at the comple-tion of a batch and the generation of a scanning log or history file of events for batches.

Provided by: Packard BioChip Technologies