Bio-Tek ELx50 User manual

Operator’s Manual
All Models
Microplate Strip Washer
ELx50™

.

ELx50™
Microplate Strip Washer
Operator’s Manual
August 2008
©2008
Part Number 4071000
Revision M
BioTek®Instruments, Inc.

ii | Preface
BioTek Instruments, Inc.
Notices
BioTek®Instruments, Inc.
Highland Park, P.O. Box 998
Winooski, Vermont 05404-0998 USA
All Rights Reserved
© 2008, BioTek®Instruments, Incorporated. No part of this publication may be
reproduced, transcribed, or transmitted in any form, or by any means electronic or
mechanical, including photocopying and recording, for any purpose other than the
purchaser’s use without written permission of BioTek Instruments, Inc.
Trademarks
BioTek®is a registered trademark, and ELx50™ and Liquid Level Alert™ are
trademarks of BioTek Instruments, Inc. Microsoft®and Excel®are either registered
trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or
other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective holders.
Restrictions and Liabilities
Information in this document is subject to change and does not represent a
commitment by BioTek Instruments, Inc. Changes made to the information in this
document will be incorporated in new editions of the publication. No
responsibility is assumed by BioTek for the use or reliability of software or
equipment that is not supplied by BioTek or its affiliated dealers.

Contents | iii
ELx50 Operator's Manual
Contents
Notices ................................................................................. ii
Contact Information .................................................................. viii
Document Conventions............................................................... ix
Revision History.......................................................................... x
Intended Use Statement ............................................................ xiii
Quality Control ......................................................................... xiii
Repackaging and Shipping ......................................................... xiii
Warnings ................................................................................. xiii
Hazards and Precautions............................................................xiv
CE Mark Information .................................................................xvi
Electromagnetic Interference and Susceptibility ........................... xvii
User Safety............................................................................. xvii
Safety Symbols ...................................................................... xviii
Chapter 1: Introduction.................................................................1
Introducing the ELx50 Microplate Strip Washer ............................... 2
ELx50 Washer Variations ............................................................. 3
Manifold Variations................................................................. 3
Carrier Variations ................................................................... 5
Software Variations ................................................................ 5
Hardware Features...................................................................... 7
Accessories Included ................................................................... 8
Optional Accessories ................................................................... 9
Specifications ........................................................................... 10
Microplates ......................................................................... 10
Electrical............................................................................. 10
Physical .............................................................................. 10
Environmental ..................................................................... 10
Hardware............................................................................ 10
Performance Specifications .................................................... 11
Product Support & Service ......................................................... 12
Contacting the Technical Assistance Center.............................. 12
Returning Instruments for Service/Repair ................................ 12
Chapter 2: Installation.................................................................13
Unpacking and Inspecting the Instrument .................................... 14
Setting Up the ELx50 ................................................................ 20
Operating Environment ......................................................... 20
Installing the Carrier and Manifold .......................................... 20
Microplate Carrier............................................................ 20
8-, 8s-, or 12-Channel Manifold ......................................... 21
16-Channel Manifold ........................................................ 22

iv | Preface
BioTek Instruments, Inc.
Aspiration Carrier (ELx50/8FMW)....................................... 23
Connecting the Tubes and Bottles........................................... 25
Before Connecting the Tubes and Bottles ............................ 25
Waste System................................................................. 28
Supply System................................................................ 31
Liquid Level Alert Option................................................... 34
Final Check..................................................................... 35
Attaching the Mist Shield....................................................... 35
Connecting the Power Supply and Cord ................................... 36
Serial Port for Communication With Other Devices .................... 36
Verifying Performance ............................................................... 37
Repackaging and Shipping ......................................................... 38
Before Repackaging the Instrument ........................................ 38
Repackaging the ELx50 and Its Accessories ............................. 38
Chapter 3: Operation ...................................................................51
ELx50 Front Panel..................................................................... 52
Keypad Description ................................................................... 53
Entering Program Names ........................................................... 54
System Startup ........................................................................ 54
Main Menu ............................................................................... 55
General Usage Guidelines .......................................................... 56
Before Running Any Program ................................................. 56
Maintenance........................................................................ 58
Programming Considerations ................................................. 58
Liquid Level Alert Option ................................................... 59
Wash ...................................................................................... 60
Run Wash Program............................................................... 60
Run Wash Program Options .............................................. 60
Define Wash Program ........................................................... 61
Define Wash Program Options ........................................... 61
Define Wash METHOD Program Options .............................. 62
Wash METHOD Defaults and Ranges................................... 63
Define Wash DISPENSE (DISP) Program Options.................. 64
Wash DISPENSE Defaults and Ranges ................................ 66
Define Wash ASPIRATION (ASPIR) Program Options............. 67
Wash ASPIRATE Defaults and Ranges................................. 69
Edit Wash Program............................................................... 71
Copy Wash Program ............................................................. 71
Delete Wash Program ........................................................... 71
Prime...................................................................................... 72
Define Prime Program........................................................... 72
Define Prime Program Options........................................... 72
PRIME Program Defaults and Ranges.................................. 73

Contents | v
ELx50 Operator's Manual
Run Prime Program .............................................................. 74
Edit Prime Program .............................................................. 74
Copy Prime Program............................................................. 75
Delete Prime Program........................................................... 75
Dispense ................................................................................. 76
Define Dispense Program ...................................................... 76
Run Dispense Program.......................................................... 76
Edit Dispense Program.......................................................... 77
Copy Dispense Program ........................................................ 77
Delete Dispense Program ...................................................... 78
Aspiration ................................................................................ 79
Define Aspiration Program ..................................................... 79
Define Aspiration Program Options..................................... 79
Define Aspirate-only Program Options ................................ 80
Aspirate-only Program Defaults and Ranges ........................ 80
Run Aspiration Program ........................................................ 80
Edit Aspiration Program ........................................................ 81
Copy Aspiration Program....................................................... 81
Delete Aspiration Program..................................................... 82
Soak ....................................................................................... 83
Define Soak Program............................................................ 83
Edit Soak Program ............................................................... 84
Copy Soak Program.............................................................. 84
Delete Soak Program............................................................ 85
Linking Programs ...................................................................... 86
Define Link Program ............................................................. 86
View Link Program ............................................................... 87
Run Link Program ................................................................ 87
Delete Link Program ............................................................. 88
Utility...................................................................................... 89
Tests.................................................................................. 89
Self-Test (SLFCHK).......................................................... 89
Configuration Information (CHKSUM) ................................. 89
Setup ................................................................................. 90
Manifold (MANIFLD)......................................................... 90
SENSOR......................................................................... 90
AutoPrime........................................................................... 91
ELx50™ Microplate Strip Washer Menu Maps ................................ 92
Chapter 4: Maintenance and Performance Verification
(IQ/OQ/PQ) ................................................................................97
Overview ................................................................................. 98
Recommended Maintenance Schedule.......................................... 99
Recommended Performance Verification Schedule ........................100

vi | Preface
BioTek Instruments, Inc.
Warnings & Precautions ............................................................101
Maintenance Programs .............................................................102
Prime Programs.......................................................................103
Daily Maintenance....................................................................104
DAY_RINSE ........................................................................104
AUTOPRIME........................................................................104
Overnight Maintenance .............................................................106
OVERNIGHT_LOOP ..............................................................106
RINSE_AND_SOAK ..............................................................107
Monthly Maintenance................................................................108
Tools and Supplies ..............................................................108
Cleaning the Bottles ............................................................109
Cleaning the Manifold ..........................................................109
Cleaning the Aspirate and Dispense Tubes ..............................110
8-, 8s-, or 12-Channel Manifold ........................................110
16-Channel Manifold .......................................................110
Cleaning the Carrier ............................................................111
Microplate Carrier...........................................................111
Aspiration Carrier (ELx50/8FMW only) ...............................112
Cleaning the Check Valves....................................................114
Long-Term Storage Maintenance................................................115
LONG_SHUTDOWN..............................................................115
Disinfect the Aspiration Carrier (ELx50/8FMW) ........................116
Storing the ELx50™ .................................................................116
Decontamination .....................................................................117
Purpose .............................................................................117
Tools and Supplies ..............................................................118
Procedure for External Components .......................................119
Procedure for Tubing and Manifold.........................................119
Alternate Decontamination Procedure for Tubing and Manifold ...120
Procedure for Aspiration Carrier (ELx50/8FMW) .......................120
Performance Verification ...........................................................122
Installation Qualification (IQ).....................................................123
Operational Qualification (OQ) ...................................................123
Performance Qualification (PQ) ..................................................124
Self-Test and Checksum Test.....................................................125
Self-Test............................................................................125
Configuration Information (CHKSUM) .....................................125
Liquid Tests for the 8-, 8s- and 12-Channel Manifolds ...................126
Evacuation Efficiency and Dispense Precision Tests ..................126
Materials .......................................................................126
Evacuation Efficiency Test Procedure .................................127
Dispense Precision Test Procedure ....................................128
Liquid Tests Worksheet (8-, 8s-, and 12-Channel Manifolds)......129

Contents | vii
ELx50 Operator's Manual
Liquid Tests for the 16-Channel Manifold .....................................130
Evacuation Efficiency and Dispense Precision Tests ..................130
Materials .......................................................................130
Evacuation Efficiency Test Procedure .................................131
Dispense Precision Test Procedure ....................................132
Liquid Tests Worksheet (16-Channel Manifold) ........................133
Liquid Test for the Aspiration Carrier (ELx50/8FMW) .....................134
Evacuation Efficiency Test ....................................................134
Materials .......................................................................134
Evacuation Efficiency Test Procedure .................................134
Liquid Test Worksheet (Aspiration Carrier) ..............................136
Maintenance/Performance and Operational Logs...........................137
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting .......................................................141
Overview ................................................................................142
Troubleshooting Checklist.....................................................142
Troubleshooting Charts.............................................................143
Washer Start-Up .................................................................143
Fluid Aspiration...................................................................144
Fluid Delivery .....................................................................148
Fluid Leakage .....................................................................150
Carrier Movement ...............................................................151
Microplate Carrier...........................................................151
Aspiration Carrier (ELx50/8FMW)......................................151
Washer Manifold Movement ..................................................151
Microplate Scratches............................................................152
Syringe Drive Movement ......................................................152
Appendix A: Error Codes............................................................153
Appendix B: ELx50 Manifold Variations......................................159
Appendix C: Chemical Compatibility ..........................................163
Appendix D: Default Programs...................................................165

viii | Preface
BioTek Instruments, Inc.
Contact Information
BioTek®Instruments, Inc.
Highland Park, P.O. Box 998
Winooski, Vermont 05404-0998 USA
Customer Service and Sales
Internet: www.biotek.com
Phone: [phone] (toll free in the U.S.)
802-655-4740 (outside the U.S.)
Fax: [phone]
E-Mail: [email protected]
Service/TAC
Phone: [phone] (toll free in the U.S.)
802-655-4740 (outside the U.S.)
Fax: [phone]
E-Mail: [email protected]
European Coordination Center/Authorized European
Representative
BioTek®Instruments GmbH
Kocherwaldstrasse 34
D-74177 Bad Friedrichshall
Germany
Internet: www.biotek.de
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-Mail: [email protected]

Document Conventions | ix
ELx50 Operator's Manual
Document Conventions
This manual uses the following typographic conventions:
Example Description
This icon calls attention to important safety notes.
Warning! A Warning indicates the potential for bodily harm and tells you
how to avoid the problem.
Caution A Caution indicates potential damage to the instrument and tells
you how to avoid the problem.
DEFINE Text in COURIER font represents menu options as they appear on
the instrument’s display.
Note:Bold text is primarily used for emphasis.
 This icon calls attention to important information.
About This Manual
The intent of this Operator’s Manual is to instruct the new user how to set up and
operate BioTek’s ELx50™. To help you read and understand this manual, certain
document conventions have been used.
Major topic headings start a new page (such as Document Conventions, above) to
give you a visual and style clue that a new major subject is being introduced. One or
more subheadings may appear below each major heading.

x | Preface
BioTek Instruments, Inc.
Revision History
Revision Date Changes
A 6/97 First Issue.
B 9/97 Added valve tubing connection diagram. Corrected rear panel figure.
C 4/99 Updated menu sequences, addresses.
D 4/99 Revised operator’s manual to reflect BOM revision.
E 6/99 Added support for 16-channel manifold/384-well plates.
F 3/01
Revised Chapter 4 maintenance procedures; removed Appendix B,
Performance Verification, and added it to Chapter 4. Added a log to
record maintenance.
G 10/03
Updated Notices to include current company contact information.
Updated Safety Symbols and Intended Use. Added Chemical
Compatibility information to Precautions. Updated Warranty to include
Bio-Tek’s current warranty statement. Changed operating environment
temperature range from 15°C - 30°C to 15°C - 40°C. Added Registration
Card information. Clarified bleach dilutions for Decontamination.
H 2/04
Reformatted entire manual according to new template. Changed
selectable ranges for the following throughout manual to conform to
software specs: Prime Volume from 1 to 999 ml to 1 to 200 ml; Shake
Duration from 0 to 600 seconds to 1 to 600 seconds, Bottom Dispense
Volume from 25 to 3000 μl/well to 50 to 3000 μl/well. Updated
introductory material, enhanced Hardware Features, Package Contents,
and Optional Accessories. Corrected specs for physical dimensions and
storage and operating temperatures. Updated contact information,
enhanced Unpacking and Packing instructions with new text and 14 new
figures. Enhanced Operation chapter with new sections: Keypad
Description, System Startup, Main Menu, and Utility. Added new
Defaults and Ranges tables for Wash Method, Wash Dispense, Wash
Aspirate, and Prime Programs. Restructured Chapter 4, Maintenance and
Performance Verification for continuity, enhanced Decontamination
section, updated Liquid Testing section. Enhanced/updated
Troubleshooting and Error Codes. Added two new appendices C,
Chemical Compatibility, and D, Default Programs.
I 2/07
Added instructions and information in all chapters of the manual for the
aspiration carrier (ELx50™/8FMW model). Removed hyphen from
“Bio-Tek” (“BioTek”) and changed “ELx50 Automated Strip Washer” to
“ELx50 Microplate Strip Washer.” Replaced the previous cover with new
cover design from Marketing.
Updated regulatory/safety information and removed Warranty and
Registration Card sections in the Preface. Revised ranges for prime flow
rate, dispense flow rate, bottom flow rate, and dispense volume for the
12-channel manifold in Chapter 3, to reflect recent revisions in the
washer’s software. Revised instructions for flushing BSA in Chapter 4.
Incorporated manual update H2: added dispense volume ranges for 96-
and 384-well plates for the 16-channel manifold in Chapter 3 and in
Appendix A, and revised the Recommended Maintenance/Performance
Verification Schedule in Chapter 4 by moving the Liquid Tests from the
IQ to the Initial/Annual OQ and monthly PQ.

Revision History | xi
ELx50 Operator's Manual
Revision Date Changes
J 4/07
Revised Chapters 1 through 5 primarily to support a redesign of the
aspiration carrier in the ELx50/8FMW washer: the vacuum grate is now
secured in place (under the plate seal gasket) by six screws around the
perimeter of the top of the carrier. Also revised vacuum levels for the
aspiration carrier: from –240 mmHg to –64 mmH for the 0.047”
diameter hole of the carrier’s vent port, and from –64 mmHg to –240
mmHg for the 0.020” diameter hole in the black vent plug.
K 10/07
General. Added information on the Liquid Level Alert™ option, which is
available for all ELx50 models. Added information on the new ‘First Strip’
run-time parameter. Additional cleanup and clarifications as described
below.
Chapter 1, Introduction. Software Variations: Clarified which features
and functions are supported for the different basecode part numbers.
Hardware Features: Simplified the description of the supply and waste
bottles provided with the instrument. Optional Accessories: Added
information on Liquid Level Alert option.
Chapter 2, Installation. Connecting Tubes and Bottles: Added
information on the Liquid Level Alert option components. Added Liquid
Alert port to drawings. Added instructions for connecting the sensor
cables to the select box, and the select box to the washer.
Chapter 3, Operation. Throughout: Added information on the ‘First Strip’
run-time parameter. Updated Menu Maps. General Usage Guidelines:
Added section for the Liquid Level Alert option. Linking Programs: Added
troubleshooting tip for resolving Link program creation issues. Setup:
Added information on new SENSOR option.
Chapter 4, Maintenance/Performance Verification. Recommended
Maintenance and Performance Verification Schedules: Divided the former
Maintenance AND Performance Verification Schedule table into two
separate tables. Decontamination: Added warning not to prepare a
stronger-than-recommended bleach solution.
Appendix A, Error Codes. General Errors: Added error codes 2800 and
2900, related to the Liquid Level Alert option.
L 1/08
General. Added information on the optional vacuum pump muffler for
ELx50 washers equipped with the new vacuum pump (washers
manufactured after January 2008). Additional changes are described
below.
Preface. Updated Directives in the CE Mark section and added
Unspecified Use Warning to Hazards and Precautions.
Chapter 1, Introduction. Added the optional vacuum pump muffler to the
Hardware Features and Accessories Included sections. Updated the
Performance Specifications section for the 96-well: changed residual
volume specs from ≤4.0 µl to ≤2.0 µl per well, and dispense precision
specs from ≤4.0% CV to ≤3.0% CV.
Chapter 2, Installation. Updated unpacking/packing artwork and
instructions to reflect new packaging materials, and added a graphic of
the vacuum pump muffler to illustrations of the washer’s rear panel.
Chapter 4, Maintenance and Performance Verification (IQ/OQ/PQ). In
the Evacuation Efficiency and Dispense Precision Tests and Worksheets
for the 8-, 8s-, and 12-channel manifolds, changed the residual volume
specs from ≤0.004 grams per well to ≤0.002 grams per well, and the
dispense precision specs from ≤4.0% CV to ≤3.0% CV.

xii | Preface
BioTek Instruments, Inc.
Revision Date Changes
(L)
Chapter 5, Troubleshooting. In the Troubleshooting Charts, added
references to the vacuum pump muffler wherever references to the in-
line vacuum filter were present.
Appendix B, Manifold Variations. Removed instructions for returning
washers to BioTek for reconfiguration to work with another manifold.
(The user can perform all the steps necessary to reconfigure the washer
for a different manifold.)
M 8/08
Preface: Updated Service/TAC fax number. Added cautions for
Electromagnetic Environment and Compatibility. Updated Directives.
Ch. 1, Introduction: Under ‘Accessories Included’ updated the part
numbers for the styluses. Updated Service/TAC fax number.
Ch. 2, Installation: Under ‘Liquid Level Alert’ added instructions for
enabling the option via the main menu option UTIL.
Ch. 3, Operation: Correct the default Sensor detection setting for the
Liquid Level Alert™ option (it is disabled by default).
Ch. 4, Maintenance and Performance Verification (IQ/OQ/PQ): Added a
note to the Recommended Maintenance Schedule recommending that
the user develop a maintenance schedule based on the characteristics of
the fluids used and the washer’s activity level. Added a note to the
Recommended Verification Schedule to state that the risk and
performance factors associated with the user’s assays may require that
some or all of the procedures be performed more frequently than
presented in the schedule. For the Evacuation Efficiency liquid test
procedures, added text to state that the user’s own wash program or
one of the ELx50’s onboard Wash programs can be used. In the Liquid
Test Worksheets, for the Mean Residual Weight (Evacuation Efficiency)
and Mean Absorbance (Dispense Precision) calculations, changed
references to ‘96’ and ‘384’ wells to ‘number of wells processed.’

Intended Use Statement | xiii
ELx50 Operator's Manual
Intended Use Statement
• The ELx50™ Microplate Strip Washer provides microplate priming and washing
for ELISA™, fluorescence and chemiluminescence immunoassays, cellular and
agglutination assays.
• The intended use of this instrument is dependent on the instrument’s rear panel
label. If there is an IVD label, then the instrument may be used for clinical,
research and development, or other non-clinical purposes. If there is no such label,
then the instrument may only be used for research and development, or for other
non-clinical purposes.
Quality Control
It is considered good laboratory practice to run laboratory samples according to
instructions and specific recommendations included in the assay package insert for the test
to be conducted. Failure to conduct Quality Control checks could result in erroneous test
data.
Repackaging and Shipping

If you need to ship the instrument to BioTek for service or repair,
contact BioTek for a Return Materials Authorization (RMA)
number, and be sure to use the original packing. Other forms of
commercially available packing are not recommended and can
void the warranty. If the original packing materials have been
damaged or lost, contact BioTek for replacement packing.
Warnings
Operate the instrument on a flat surface and away from excessive humidity.
When operated in a safe environment according to the instructions in this
document, there are no known hazards associated with the ELx50™. However,
the operator should be aware of certain situations that could result in serious
injury; these may vary depending on the instrument model.

xiv | Preface
BioTek Instruments, Inc.
Hazards and Precautions
Hazards
Warning! Power Rating. The ELx50 Microplate Strip Washer’s power supply
must be connected to a power receptacle that provides voltage and current
within the specified rating for the system. Use of an incompatible power
receptacle may produce electrical shock and fire hazards.
Warning! Electrical Grounding. Never use a two-prong plug adapter to
connect primary power to the ELx50 power supply. Use of a two-prong adapter
disconnects the utility ground, creating a severe shock hazard. Always connect
the power cord directly to a three-prong receptacle with a functional ground.
Warning! Internal Voltage. Always turn off the power switch and unplug
the power supply before cleaning the outer surface of the instrument.
Warning! Liquids. Avoid spilling liquids on the instrument; fluid seepage into
internal components creates a potential shock hazard. Wipe up all spills
immediately. Do not operate the instrument if internal components have been
exposed to fluid.
Warning! Potential Biohazards. Some assays or specimens may pose a
biohazard. Adequate safety precautions should be taken as outlined in the
assay’s package insert. Always wear safety glasses and appropriate protective
equipment, such as chemically resistant rubber gloves and apron.
Warning! Unspecified Use. Failure to operate this equipment according to the
guidelines and safeguards specified in this manual could result in a hazardous
condition.
Warning! Software Quality Control. The operator must follow the
manufacturer’s assay package insert when modifying software parameters and
establishing wash methods, using the washer’s onboard software.
Warning! Pinch Hazard. Do not reach under the instrument during operation,
as the syringe pump may pinch your fingers.
Precautions
The following precautions are provided to help avoid damage to the instrument:
Caution: Service. The washer should be serviced by BioTek authorized service
personnel. Only qualified technical personnel should perform troubleshooting
and service procedures on internal components.

Hazards and Precautions | xv
ELx50 Operator's Manual
Caution: Environmental Conditions. Do not expose the instrument to
temperature extremes. For proper operation, ambient temperatures should
remain between 15°-40°C (59°-104°F). Performance may be adversely affected if
temperatures fluctuate above or below this range. Storage temperature limits
are broader (see Storing the ELx50 in Chapter 4).
Caution: Sodium Hypochlorite. Do not expose any part of the instrument to
the recommended diluted sodium hypochlorite solution (bleach) for more than
20 minutes. Prolonged contact may damage the instrument surfaces. Be certain
to rinse and thoroughly wipe all surfaces.
Caution: Chemical Compatibility - Washers. Some chemicals may cause
irreparable damage to washers. The following chemicals have been deemed safe
for use in washers: buffer solutions (such as PBS), saline, surfactants, deionized
water, 70% ethyl, isopropyl, or methyl alcohol, 40% formaldehyde, and 20%
sodium hydroxide. Never use acetic acid, DMSO, or organic solvents. Other
chemicals may cause severe damage to the instrument. Contact BioTek prior to
using any other chemicals. Refer to Appendix C, Chemical Compatibility.
Caution: Washers and Wash Buffer Solution. Although many precautions
have been taken to ensure that the instrument is as corrosion-proof as possible,
the washer is not sealed and liquids can seep into sensitive components. Make
sure that any spilled wash buffer solution is wiped off the washer. Prolonged
exposure to salt solution may corrode parts of the carrier, movement rail,
springs, and other hardware.
Caution: Bovine Serum Albumin. Solutions containing proteins, such as
bovine serum albumin (BSA), will compromise the washer’s performance over
time unless a strict maintenance protocol is adhered to. See Chapter 4,
Maintenance and Performance Verification (IQ/OQ/PQ) for cleaning
instructions regarding BSA.
Caution: Warranty. Failure to follow preventive maintenance protocols may
void the warranty. See Chapter 4.
Caution: Disposal. This instrument contains printed circuit boards and wiring
with lead solder. Dispose of the instrument according to Directive 2002/96/EC,
“on waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE).”
Caution: Electromagnetic Environment. Per IEC 61326-2-6 it is the user’s
responsibility to ensure that a compatible electromagnetic environment for this
instrument is provided and maintained in order that the device will perform as
intended.
Caution: Electromagnetic Compatibility. Do not use this device in close
proximity to sources of strong electromagnetic radiation (e.g. unshielded
intentional RF sources), as these may interfere with the proper operation.

xvi | Preface
BioTek Instruments, Inc.
Directive 2004/108/EC: Electromagnetic Compatibility
Emissions - CLASS A
EN 50081-1 and IEC 61326-1
EN 55022 Class A
This equipment has been designed and tested to CISPR 11 Class A. In a domestic
environment it may cause radio interference, in which case, you may need to mitigate
the interference.
Immunity
EN 50082-1 and IEC 61326-1
IEC 1000-4-2 Electrostatic Discharge
IEC 1000-4-3 Radiated EM Fields
IEC 1000-4-4 Electrical Fast Transient/Burst
IEC 1000-4-5 Surge Immunity
EN 61000-4-6 Conducted Disturbances
EN 61000-4-11 Voltage Dips, Short Interruptions and Variations
Directive 73/23/EEC Low Voltage
EN 61010-1: “Safety requirement for electrical equipment for measurement, control
and laboratory use. Part 1, General requirements.”
Directive 2002/96/EC: Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment
Disposal Notice. This instrument contains printed circuit boards and wiring with
lead solder. Dispose of the instrument according to Directive 2002/96/EC, “on waste
electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE).”
Directive 98/79/EC: In Vitro Diagnostics (some models)
• Product registration with competent authorities
• Traceability to the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST):
Dispense precision and average residual volume is traceable to NIST.
Based on the testing described below and information contained
herein, this instrument bears the CE mark.

Electromagnetic Interference and Susceptibility | xvii
ELx50 Operator's Manual
Electromagnetic Interference and Susceptibility
USA FCC CLASS A
Warning: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the
manufacturer could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference
when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. Like all similar equipment,
this equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is
likely to cause interference, in which case the user will be required to correct the
interference at his own expense.
Canadian Department of Communications Class A
This digital apparatus does not exceed Class A limits for radio emissions from digital
apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of
Communications.
Le present appareil numerique n'met pas du bruits radioelectriques depassant les limites
applicables aux appareils numerique de la Class A prescrites dans le Reglement sur le
brouillage radioelectrique edicte par le ministere des Communications du Canada.
User Safety
This device has been type tested by an independent laboratory and found to meet the
requirements of the following:
North America
• Canadian Standards Association CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 61010-1-04
“Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and
Laboratory Use, Part 1: General Requirements.”
• Underwriters Laboratories UL 61010-1:2004
“Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and
Laboratory Use, Part 1: General Requirements.”
International
• EN 61010-1
“Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and
Laboratory Use, Part 1: General Requirements.”

xviii | Preface
BioTek Instruments, Inc.
Safety Symbols
Alternating current
Courant alternatif
Wechselstrom
Corriente alterna
Corrente alternata
Direct current
Courant continu
Gleichstrom
Corriente continua
Corrente continua
Both direct and alternating current
Courant continu et courant alternatif
Gleich - und Wechselstrom
Corriente continua y corriente alterna
Corrente continua e corrente alternata
Earth ground terminal
Borne de terre
Erde (Betriebserde)
Borne de tierra
Terra (di funzionamento)
Protective conductor terminal
Borne de terre de protection
Schutzleiteranschluss
Borne de tierra de protección
Terra di protezione
On (Supply)
Marche (alimentation)
Ein (Verbindung mit dem Netz)
Conectado
Chiuso
Off (Supply)
Arrêt (alimentation)
Aus (Trennung vom Netz)
Desconectado
Aperto (sconnessione dalla rete di alimentazione)