Ovation BioNatural 1160-0020 Manual

Operator’s Guide
for Multichannel Pipettes
L060-0061-001 Rev. F

Ovation BioNatural Pipette – Multichannel Operator’s Guide 1 - 1
Ovation BioNatural™pipettes are the ideal ergonomic solution for handling repetitive
and complex liquid handling tasks that contribute to repetitive stress injuries in
today's laboratory. Ovation pipettes increase laboratory efficiency through automated
liquid handling routines, while reducing fatigue and the effect of poor postures.
This manual describes how to use and care for your Ovation multichannel pipette.
As you can see from its appearance, it is different from every pipette that you have
used before, therefore please read the instructions carefully.
Upon initial receipt of the pipette, the battery must be recharged for 90 minutes prior
to use. (See instructions on page 5–2) . Also, please activate the warranty on the VistaLab
Technologies web site – www.vistalab.com. The required on-line form can be found in
the “support” menu. Retain all packing materials in the event that the pipette is to be
sent back to VistaLab Technologies for calibration verification or service.
The multichannel Ovation BioNatural Pipette is an adjustable volume, air displacement,
fully electronic motor-driven pipette intended to aspirate and dispense precise fluid
volumes. 8 and 12-channel models, in both left and right-handed configurations,
are available to cover liquid dispensing needs between 0.5 and 1250µL.
Product Description
1
INTRODUCTION TO THE OVATION MU TICHANNE
Catalog # Volume Di pen ing
8 Channel 12 Channel Color Range Increment Accuracy* Preci ion*
1160-0020 1060-0020 ±1.0% at 20µL 0.40% at 20µL
0.5 – 20µL 0.05µL ±1.5% at 10µL 0.80% at 10µL
1160-0020L 1060-0020L ±3.0% at 2µL 1.80% at 2µL
1160-0125 1060-0125 ±0.8% at 125µL 0.25% at 125µL
2 – 125µL 0.5µL ±1.0% at 62.5µL 0.30% at 62.5µL
1160-0125L 1060-0125L ±3.0% at 12.5µL 1.25% at 12.5µL
1160-0250 1060-0250 ±0.8% at 250µL 0.25% at 250µL
5 – 250µL 1µL ±1.0% at 125µL 0.40% at 125µL
1160-0250L 1060-0250L ±2.5% at 25µL 1.00% at 25µL
1060-0850 ±1.0% at 850µL 0.30% at 850µL
25 – 850µL 5µL ±1.25% at 425µL 0.40% at 425µL
1060-0850L ±3.5% at 85µL 1.00% at 85µL
1160-1250 ±0.8% at 1250µL 0.20% at 1250µL
25 – 1250µL 5µL ±1.0% at 625µL 0.30% at 625µL
1160-1250L ±3.5% at 125µL 0.80% at 125µL
*Specifications subject to change
Yellow
Green
Blue
Gray
Purple
Note: Catalog numbers ending in “L” are left-handed models –
the LCD screen is on the opposite side of the pipette.

Ovation BioNatural Pipette – Multichannel Operator’s Guide 1 - 2
Description Function
Pipetting Trigger Initiates pipetting action
Tip Eject Button jects disposable pipette tips with minimal thumb force
Adjustable Hook Accommodates left and right handed users
Tip Head Houses nozzles and tip acquision/discard system. If needed, pressure can be applied
to textured upper surface during tip acquisition.
Ejector Slide Stored energy from tip installation releases tips
Nozzles T
apered, chemically resistant couplings that secure pipette tips
Body Larger grip surface for comfort, eliminating tight hand grip
Keypad Selects and sets up liquid handling functions, settings and calibration
LCD
Indicates liquid handling functions, status, settings, and remaining battery power
Battery Lithium ion rechargeable, located in base of pipette (not shown)
Foot Balances pipette
Volume Label Identifies volume range
Recharging Port Power supply connection for battery recharging
Power Supply AC adapter for recharging battery
(not shown)
Captive Screw When loosened, allows access to inside of pipette for battery replacement
Eje tor Slide Tip Head
Nozzle(s)
Keypad
Foot
Body
Tip Eje t Button Adjustable
Hook
Pipetting Trigger
LCD Display
Re harging Port
Volume Label
Pipette Components
Serial Number
Captive S rew

Ovation BioNatural Pipette – Multichannel Operator’s Guide 2 - 1
2
BIONATURA PIPETTING
Studies have shown that pipetting is the #1 cause of musculoskeletal disorders in the
laboratory – it is, by nature, a repetitive process that puts strain on the body. While
we can’t change how repetitive pipetting is, we can and did change how comfortable
you are while doing it.
The Ovation BioNatural Pipette is the only pipette designed to keep your hand in the
neutral position recommended by ergonomics experts. We call this BioNatural™
pipetting – it allows a lower hand location to ease stress in the shoulder, and a
relaxed wrist angle eliminates uncomfortable extension and radial deviation
movements in the arm. Force, velocity and exertion from repetition or duration have
also been neutralized because of the Ovation pipette’s unique working position and
reduced forces required during operation.
Some practice may be required to change years of posture and habits developed
using standard axial pipettes; the physical benefits of BioNatural pipetting are worth
the practice! When using the Ovation pipette, arm/hand elevation should not exceed
12” from the work surface, wrist rotation should not exceed 90º, and hand posture
should remain relaxed with the wrist and back of hand slightly flexed.
Introduction
Posture
Arm elevation remains low,
minimizing stress to elbow,
sho lder and neck
A loose, relaxed grip increases
available strength in the hand,
improving end rance and
prod ctivity d ring pipetting
Wrist remains in a ne tral
range of motion thro gho t
all pipetting operations

Ovation BioNatural Pipette – Multichannel Operator’s Guide 2 - 2
rgonomics experts recommend establishing a “comfort zone” of
movement for the task of pipetting. Position your body within 9” of the
counter surface, and keep the items needed within easy reach. Ideally this
should be 14” or less, and should not exceed 24” of occasional reaching.
Wrist rotation should not exceed 90˚ from the work surface, and arm/hand
elevations should not exceed 12”.
Keep a “comfort zone”
for pipetting
14”
Maximum
Reach
“Comfort one”
14”
24”
24”
5. Low arm and
elbow height
4. Neutral forearm
and wrist rotation
3. Relaxed hand grip 2. Low thumb forces
1. Relaxed shoulders
and upper arms
Ovation comfort-zone benefits:
1. Minimized tension and fatigue
2. Minimized exertion and contact stress
3. Low contact pressure
4. Lowest pressure in carpal tunnel and to median nerve
5. Minimized tension to shoulder and elbow

Ovation BioNatural Pipette – Multichannel Operator’s Guide 2 - 3
The Ovation pipette has been designed
to allow the body of the pipette to fill
your palm. Rotate the adjustable
hook to
rest comfortably on your forefinger. The
texture of the unit’s back helps reinforce
correct hand positioning.
The unique ergonomic design and
adjustable hook is compatible for both
right and left-handed use.
Keep hand posture relaxed – there’s no
need for a “firm grip” when using an
Ovation pipette.
The Ovation Multichannel pipette’s
keypad is easy to use and provides
access to all liquid handling functions
and settings. Simply press the buttons
on the keypad, monitoring the selection
of functions or changes to settings on
the LCD display.
Complete information and examples of
all liquid handling functions and
settings are included in “Operating
Procedures” - Chapter 3 of this guide.
While maintaining a flat wrist-hand
posture, insert the Ovation pipette
nozzles into a row of tips. If desired,
place other hand on the textured
surface (top) of the tip head and press
down until you hear or feel a “click”.
This “click” indicates that the tips are
properly seated and ready for use.
The Ovation multichannel pipette has
been especially designed to reduce
muscular stress and fatigue commonly
associated with single-handed tip
acquisition devices. The Ovation design,
recommmended by ergonomists and
governmental agencies, allows the user
to gently press on the tip head – thereby
distributing forces and reducing fatigue
and effort. Other pipettes do not offer
this feature, and on many models pushing
on the head would eject the tips.
Picking Up the Pipette
Selecting iquid
Handling Functions
and Changing
Settings
Acquiring Tips

Ovation BioNatural Pipette – Multichannel Operator’s Guide 2 - 4
Smooth gliding movements of the upper
extremities with proper posture and
minimal stress is the key to ergonomically
correct pipetting. Maintain a low forearm
elevation and neutral wrist posture
throughout the pipetting cycle. Immerse
pipette tips to an appropriate depth
(1mm for 0.5–20µL, 2 to 3mm for 2µL–125µL
& 5-250µL, and 2 to 4mm for 25–850µL).
Press & release the pipetting trigger to
aspirate sample. Press pipetting trigger
again to dispense or mix sample.
The Ovation multichannel pipette stores
energy captured during the acquisition
of tips, and uses it to discard tips when
the tip eject button is pressed. Point
pipette tips into a suitable waste
container and gently press the button.
The ejector slide is activated, discarding
all tips simultaneously.
Aspirating and
Dispensing
Ejecting Tips

Ovation BioNatural Pipette – Multichannel Operator’s Guide 3 - 1
3
OPERATING PROCEDURES
The general steps to set up and operate the Ovation pipette are:
1. Select a liquid handling function
2. Review and change settings as required
3. Acquire tips
4. Run the liquid handling function according to its protocol
5. ject disposable tips into a proper waste container.
Familiarize yourself with the use of the keypad, display prompts, set-up and use of
the pipette’s liquid handling functions in this chapter before use.
Getting Started
Button Description
Advances display to next liquid handling function in the run
mode. When in set-up, the button advances display to
the next setting within the liquid handling function that can
be changed.
When changing the setting(s) within a liquid handling
function, pressing the or button adjusts the settings.
When pressed together and held, they are used to access
pipette settings.
Description
Pipette Keypad
Pipette Display
UP DOWN
example
Displays volume and values
durin set-up, e. . # of mix
cycles, # of multiple dispenses
Symbol indicates next
portion of aspirate (up) or
dispense (down) cycle to
be performed
Displays liquid handling
function , settin or prompt
that is active
Icon indicates
remainin
battery capacity
Displayed when cal factor has
been chan ed from factory
settin of 1.000

Ovation BioNatural Pipette – Multichannel Operator’s Guide 3 - 2
Function Indicator
pp11 pp22 pp33
(no function shown)
mmuullttii
ssddiilluu
mmiixx
rreevveerr
Function Description
Pipette Routine aspirating and dispensing at stored (user-defined)
volumes (also known as TC or "to contain" pipetting). Sample
volume is dispensed with overblow to expel all liquid.
Pipette Aspirating and dispensing in pipette function at a dynamic
user-defined volume.
Multiple Dispense Repetitive dispensing function of equal volumes. The
pipette calculates and aspirates the total volume required,
then dispenses in multiple aliquots. An automatic repetitive
dispensing utility, PPAACCEE, can be activated by holding the
pipette trigger while dispensing.
Serial Dilute A sequence of dilutions. Sample is aspirated, dispensed into
diluent and mixed. Diluted sample is automatically aspirated
for addition to the next diluent.
Mix Repetitive cycles of aspirating and dispensing.
Reverse Pipette A sample transfer function based on delivered dispense
volume (also known as TD or “to deliver” pipetting).
Sample volume is aspirated with slight overage and the
desired volume is dispensed, leaving some liquid in the tip
that is then purged.
Setting Indicator
FFIILLLL
SSppeeeedd
DDiiss
DDiisspp
MMiixx
VVooll
Description
Volume to be dispensed (when using pp11, pp22or pp33, this is
also the volume that will be aspirated).
Speed at which the pipette aspirates, dispenses and mixes
within a liquid handling function. 5 settings are available.
(1 is the slowest and 5 is the fastest)
Shows the number of dispenses remaining when using the
MMUULLTTIIfunction.
The volume of individual dispense(s) when setting up the
MMUULLTTIIfunction.
The volume of the dilution to be mixed when using the
SSDDIILLUU function.
The volume to be mixed when using the M
MI I function.

Ovation BioNatural Pipette – Multichannel Operator’s Guide 3 - 3
Setting Indicator
CCoouunntt
PPuurrggee
ZZeerroo
PPaaccee
TToonnee
LLCCDD
SSlleeeepp
HHOOMMEE
Introduction
Description
The number of dispenses when using the M
MU UL LT TI Ifunction, or
the number of mix cycles (1-9) when using SSDDIILLUUor MMII
functions.
Interrupts and ends any function or is the last step in some
Liquid Handling Functions.
Indicates that the pipette pistons are at the overblow or lowest
position at the end of a M
MI I function.
Pace is an adjustable timed interval delay between
automatic repetitive dispenses when using the MMUULLTTII
function (1 is slowest setting, 4 is fastest).
Ovation pipettes use “beep” tones to indicate various
actions, or can be disabled.
• A single beep tone indicates the end of a pipetting step.
• A double beep tone indicates the completion of the (last)
dispense cycle when using the MMUULLTTIIfunction and RREEVVEERR.
• A triple beep tone indicates the end of a liquid handling
function.
• An alert tone indicates the pipetting trigger was pressed
before set-up was completed, or an illegal action or
programming error has occurred.
The contrast on the liquid crystal display can be adjusted as
needed.
After 10 minutes of inactivity, the pipette automatically
enters SSLLEEEEPP to conserve battery power. Press any button
or the pipetting trigger to resume operation.
When the pipette is first activated from SSLLEEEEPP, the HHOOMMEE
prompt is displayed while the plungers are automatically
reset.
Set-up of iquid Handling Functions
The Ovation multichannel pipette’s keypad is easy to use and provides access to all liquid
handling functions and settings. Simply press the buttons on the keypad to step through
the various functionss and make changes to settings. When a setting indicator is flashing,
this indicates that the setting has been changed from a previously “saved” setting.
A number of settings, such as speed, count, and mix, appear in each liquid handling
function. While their set-up is similar in all cases, they must be established
independently within each liquid handling function.

Ovation BioNatural Pipette – Multichannel Operator’s Guide 3 - 4
The Ovation multichannel pipette provides three user-defined pre-sets for routine
pipetting at exact volumes with overblow (TC or “to contain” pipetting). Volume
and speed are stored for easy recall and use.
To set-up and run a P1, P2 or P3 liquid handling function, follow these steps:
Example: Pipette 200µL of sample
1. Press and release until PP11, PP22or PP33 appears on the display.
2. Press or and the FFIILLLLappears on the display with the current volume
setting. Press and hold or to rapidly scroll to the desired setting, or press
and release or to step the volume measurement to the desired setting.
3. Press and release to lock-in the new volume setting and advance to the current
SSppeeeeddsetting.
4. Press and release or until the desired speed is displayed. (1 is slowest setting,
5 is fastest).
5. Press and release to lock-in the SSppeeeeddsetting and exit setup.
6. Aspirate sample by pressing and releasing the pipetting trigger.
7. Press the pipetting trigger to dispense sample with overblow to expel all liquid.
To prevent accidental re-aspiration of sample after overblow, the pipetting
trigger can be held down during dispensing. Move tips away from the
dispensing area before releasing the pipetting trigger.
Setting a dynamic volume
To aspirate and dispense any volume, it is not necessary to store the new volume
setting. Simply press and release until
P
P1 1
,
P
P2 2
or
P
P3 3
appears on the display, then
press or until the desired volume is displayed. Press and or to change
speed if desired. Press and release the pipetting trigger to begin pipetting. Note: P1,
P2 or P3 will not appear on the display. This volume will remain active until another
liquid handling function or volume is selected; pre-set volumes for
P
P1 1
,
P
P2 2
or PP33
remain unchanged.
Pipette
PP11
10 0
.
0µ
LL
FFIILLLL
10 0
.
0µL
FFiillll
20 0
.
0µL
SSppeeeedd
.
2
SSPPEEEEDD
4


PP11
200
.
0µ
LL

200
.
0µ
LL

PP11
20 0
.
0µL

Liquid Handling Functions
!


Multiple Dispense is a repetitive pipetting function for dispensing equal volumes.
Once a dispense volume and the number of dispenses are established, the Ovation
pipette automatically calculates the total fill volume required.
To set-up and run a
Multiple Dispense liquid handling function, follow these steps:
Example: Dispense a 50µL aliquot, 10 times
1. Press and release until MMUULLTTIIappears on the display.
2. Press or and DDIISSPPappears on the display with the current volume setting
for individual dispenses. Press or until the desired volume is displayed.
3. Press and release to lock-in the new volume setting and advance to the
current CCOOUUNNTTsetting.
Note: The count setting will either be the last number of dispenses used or the
maximum number of full dispenses that can be performed at the new volume setting.
4. Press and release or until the desired number of dispenses is displayed.
5. Press and release to lock-in the new CCOOUUNNTTsetting and advance to the
current speed setting.
6. Press and release or until the desired speed is displayed (1 is slowest speed, 5 is
fastest).
7. Press and release to lock-in the SSppeeeeddsetting and exit setup.
8. Aspirate sample by pressing and releasing the pipetting trigger. The total
volume required to complete all dispenses and FFIILLLL is displayed while the
volume is being aspirated.
9. Press and release the pipetting trigger to dispense each aliquot. The display will
indicate the volume being dispensed, and the number of dispenses remaining.
To activate PPccee, press and hold the pipetting trigger when dispensing, and
aliquots will be dispensed automatically at a timed interval until the pipetting
trigger is released or the last dispense is performed. See the PPcceeinstructions
to set-up or change the interval setting (page 3-9).
10. After the final volume is dispensed, purge appears on the display. Press and
release the pipetting trigger to discard any remaining liquid in the tips.
Note: purge can be used at any time to end any liquid handling function by
pressing . To cancel purge, press again and resume dispensing.
Multiple
Dispense
Ovation BioNatural Pipette – Multichannel Operator’s Guide 3 - 5
mmuullttii
850µL
DDIISSPP
25µL
DDIISSPP
50 µL
DDIISS 1100
50µL
PPUURRGGEE
CCOOUUNNTT
.
5
CCOOUUNNTT
10

FFiillll
500µL


DDIISS 99
50µL

SSppeeeedd
.
2
SSPPEEEEDD
5




Ovation BioNatural Pipette – Multichannel Operator’s Guide 3 - 6
The SSDDIILLUUliquid handling function performs sequential dilutions. An initial sample
volume is aspirated, dispensed into diluent and then mixed. The diluted sample is
then aspirated for addition to the next diluent.
To set-up and run a
Serial Dilute liquid handling function, follow these steps:
Example: Prepare a 1:2, 1:4, ,1:8 . . . serial dilution using a sample volume of
100µL.
Mix 125µL of each dilution three times.
1. Use the M
MU UL LT TI Iliquid handling function to dispense 100µL of diluent into each
sample well.
2. Press and release until SSDDIILLUUappears on the display.
3. Press or and FFIILLLL appears on the display with the current volume setting
for aspiration. Press or until the desired setting is displayed.
4. Press and release to lock-in the new volume setting and advance to the
current MMIIXX volume.
5. Press or until the desired mix volume is displayed.
6. Press and release to lock-in the new mix volume and advance to the current
CCOOUUNNTT setting.
7. Press or until the desired number of mix cycles (1-9) is displayed.
8. Press and release to lock-in the new CCOOUUNNTTsetting and advance to the current
speed setting.
9. Press and release or until the desired speed is displayed (1 is slowest, 5 is fastest).
10. Press and release to lock-in the SSppeeeeddsetting and exit setup.
11. Aspirate 100µL of sample by pressing and releasing the pipetting trigger.
12. Place (filled) tips into the first diluent-filled row, and press and release the pipetting
trigger to dispense sample into the diluent, followed by three mix cycles. After
mixing, 100µL of the diluted sample is automatically aspirated. Move tips to next
row and press pipetting trigger to dispense and mix the next dilution. Continue
until all dilutions are prepared.
13. To empty the tips of liquid after the final dilution is made, press and ppuurrggee
appears on the display (or to cancel PURGE, press again). Press and release the
pipetting trigger to dispense liquid into an appropriate container.
Serial Dilute
SSDDIILLUU
50 µL
FFIILLLL
50 µL
CCOOUUNNTT
.
5
CCOOUUNNTT
3

FFIILLLL
10 0µ
LL

SSDDIILLuu
10 0µ
LL

MMIIXX
75 µL
MMIIXX
125µL
SSppeeeedd
.
2
SSPPEEEEDD
4


 

Ovation BioNatural Pipette – Multichannel Operator’s Guide 3 - 7
Mix is a liquid handling function with repetitive cycles of aspirating and dispensing of
the same sample. The MMiixxfunction can be used independently of other functions
and is included within the SSDDIILLUUfunction.
To set-up and run the Mix liquid handling function, follow these steps:
Example: Mix 100µL of solution 5 times
1. Press and release until MMIIXXappears on the display.
2. Press or and VVOOLLappears on the display with the current volume setting for
mixing. Press or to scroll to the desired setting.
3. Press and release to lock-in the new volume setting and advance to the
current CCoouunntt setting.
4. Press and release or until the desired number of mix cycles is displayed (1-9).
5. Press and release to lock-in the new CCOOUUNNTTsetting and advance to the current
SSPPEEEEDD setting.
6. Press and release or until the desired speed is displayed (1 is slowest, 5 is fastest).
7. Press and release to lock-in the SSppeeeeddsetting and exit setup.
8. Mix 100µL of sample by pressing and releasing the pipetting trigger.
9. When z
ze er ro oappears on the display, remove tips from solution and press the
pipetting trigger. The pipette is now ready to perform the next
Mix function.
Mix
MMIIXX
50
.
0µ
LL
VVOOLL
50
.
0µL
VVOOLL
10 0
.
0µL
SSppeeeedd
2
SSPPEEEEDD
4
ZZEERROO

MMIIXX 55
100
.
0µ
LL

MMIIXX 55
100
.
0µ
LL

CCOOUUNNTT
.
3
CCOOUUNNTT
5



Ovation BioNatural Pipette – Multichannel Operator’s Guide 3 - 8
Reverse Pipette is a sample transfer function based on an exact dispense volume (TD or
“to deliver” pipetting). Sample volume is apirated with a slight overage and the exact
amount is dispensed, leaving some liquid in the tip that is purged with the next press of
the pipetting trigger. This method of pipetting is commonly used for highly volatile or
viscous samples, and/or when working with small microvolumes.
To set-up and run a Reverse Pipette liquid handling function, follow these steps:
Example: Pipette 50µL of sample
1. Press and release until RREEVVEERRappears on the display.
2. Press or and DDIISSPPappears on the display with current volume setting. Press
or tuntil the desired setting is displayed.
3. Press and release to lock-in the new volume setting and advance to the current
SSppeeeeddsetting.
4. Press and release or until the desired speed is displayed (1 is slowest, 5 is fastest).
5. Press and release to lock-in the SSppeeeeddsetting and exit setup.
6. Aspirate sample by pressing and releasing the pipetting trigger.
7. Press and release the pipetting trigger to dispense sample.
8. The
P
PU UR RG GE E
prompt is displayed after sample is dispensed. Press and release the
pipetting trigger to purge liquid remaining in the tips into a suitable container.
The pipette is now ready to perform the next
Reverse Pipette function.
Reverse Pipette
RREEVVEERR
10 0
.
0µ
LL
DDIISSPP
10 0
.
0µL
DDIISSPP
50
.
0µL
SSppeeeedd
.
2
SSPPEEEEDD
4

RREEVVEERR
50
.
0µL

PPUURRGGEE
RReevveerr
50µL




LCD
Ovation BioNatural Pipette – Multichannel Operator’s Guide 3 - 9
The contrast on the pipette’s liquid crystal display can be adjusted as needed:
1. Simultaneously press and hold the buttons until TTOONNEEappears on the display.
2. Press and release until LLCCDDappears on the display.
3. Press or to increase or decrease the contrast to desired level. Press to step
to P
PA AC CE Eor press the pipetting trigger to return to routine operation.
The PPcceesetting represents the pause time between automatic repetitive dispenses
while using the Multiple Dispense function.
To change PPAACCEEsetting, follow the steps below:
1. Simultaneously press and hold the buttons until TTOONNEEappears on the display.
2. Press and release until PPAACCEEand a numeric value is displayed (1, 2, 3 or 4).
Press the or button until the desired pause interval is displayed (1 is slowest,
4 is fastest). The lower the number, the shorter the delay in milliseconds between
automatic dispenses.
3. Press and release to step to CCAALLor press the pipetting trigger to return to
routine operation.
Note: To use PPAACCEEwhen in the Multiple Dispense liquid handling function, press and
hold the pipetting trigger when dispensing; aliquots will be dispensed
automatically at the specified interval setting. To interrupt PPAACCEE, release the
pipetting trigger.
Pace
TToonnee
o
n
n
PPAACCEE
2
ttoonnee
o
n
n
LLCCDD++--
I I I I
LLCCDD++--
I I I I
Ovation pipettes use “beep” tones to indicate various actions. A single beep tone
indicates the end of a pipetting step. A double beep tone indicates the completion of
the (last) dispense cycle when using the multiple dispense or reverse pipette function.
A triple beep tone indicates the end of a liquid handling function
. An alert tone
indicates the pipetting trigger was pressed before set-up was completed or an illegal
action or programming error has occurred.
Beep tones can be disabled if desired as follows:
1. Simultaneously press and hold the buttons until TTOONNEEappears on the display.
2. Press or to toggle the “beep” setting ON or OFF. Press to step to LLCCDD or
press the pipetting trigger to return to routine operation.
Tone
ttoonnee
o
n
n
TToonnee
off
Set-up of Pipette Settings


Ovation BioNatural Pipette – Multichannel Operator’s Guide 4 - 1
4
CALIBRATIO
Each Ovation pipette is factory calibrated to manufacturing specifications and a
Certificate of Calibrtation traceable to NIST is enclosed in the unit’s original
packaging. The pipette is calibrated at 21.5˚C (±2˚) and relative humidity of 45%-75%
using distilled wate r. It is recommended that calibration be verified every six months or
on an as-needed basis, whichever is applicable.
The Ovation pipette can be easily in-lab calibrated ±10% for optimum performance at
your operating conditions. In addition, the calibration factor can be pre-determined
and set at the appropriate value for a liquid to be dispensed. Changing the calibration
factor is quick and easy. Returning the calibration factor to 1.000 will re-set the
Ovation pipette to its original factory calibration.
For optimum performance over the en tire pipetting range, verify and
calibrate the pipette using the maximum volume setting. For a specific
liquid at one volume, verify and calibrate at that volume.
With the pipette set to the desired volume, determine the actual volume dispensed*.
Then use Ovation’s calibration software to determine an appropriate calibration factor.
When the calibration factor is changed from the factory setting of 1.000, a “C”
appears on the display screen. It is recommended that whenever the calibration
factor is changed from the factory setting, that the current factor be recorded in
the laboratory’s quality control log.
1. Perform a verification at the desired volume.
2. Simultaneously press and hold the buttons (ab ut 3 sec nds) until TTOONNEE
appears on the display. Press and release until CAL appears.
Note: To interrupt the calibration sequence at any time, depress and release
the pipetting trigger. No changes will be saved.
3. Press or and TTrrgg(target) and the pipette’s maximum volume is displayed.
4. Press or to change the volume, but only if calibrating at other than the
maximum.
5. Press and MMEEAASS(measured) and the maximum volume is displayed.
6. Press or to enter the actual volume dispensed during verification. (See Step 1)
7. Press and ffcctt (factor) and a new calibration factor is displayed. Record
this factor.
8. Press again and SSEETT(set) appears on the display. After one second, the
pipette accepts and stores the new calibration factor. A “C” may now appear
on the display.
9. Re-verify volume delivery with this new calibration factor.
* For additional information on calibration verification, go to our documentation
library under Support at www.vistalab.com
Introduction
Determining a
ew Calibration
Factor

Ovation BioNatural Pipette – Multichannel Operator’s Guide 4 - 2
Ovation allows the user to enter a known calibration factor for a specific liquid or
volume, or return to the factory setting.
1. Repeat Step 2 under “Determining a New Calibration Factor. Press until CCAALL
appears on the LCD.
Note: To interrupt the calibration sequence, press and release the plunger.
No changes will be saved.
2. Press or , followed by (2 times) to advance to FFAACCTTRRon the display.
Record this factor.
3. Press or to enter the known calibration factor.
4. Press and SSEETT(set) then appears on the display while the pipette homes the
plungers. The pipette has accepted and stored the new calibration factor.
5. Verify volume delivery at this new factor, or begin to use the pipette.
Entering a
Calibration
Factor

Ovation BioNatural Pipette – Multichannel Operator’s Guide 5 - 1
The Ovation pipette requires minimal maintenance. Always store it in its “standing”
position or on the Ovation Pipette Stand (Catalog No. 9058-4003) when not in use.
Clean outer surfaces as needed with a soft cloth dampened with warm water. To
decontaminate outer surfaces, wipe with a 70% aqueous solution of ethanol or
isopropranol.
WAR I G! Before cleaning or decontaminating the pipette, make sure the
power supply is disconnected.
The replaceable nozzle contains an internal aerosol/liquid barrier filter to prevent
liquid from being aspirated into the pipette. Additionally, the nozzle filter offers
protection to internal parts from routine exposure to hazardous liquids and vapors. If
this filter becomes wet, the pipette will not aspirate fluid until a new nozzle is
installed or the nozzle filter is replaced.
Wipe the exterior surface of nozzles with disinfectant or a 10% bleach solution.
Care should be taken not to get the barrier filter inside the nozzle wet, as the
channel will not aspirate and dispense properly until corrective action is taken.
If any channels are not aspirating and dispensing properly, it could be caused by (a)
poor fitting alternate source tips, (b) a nozzle is loose and needs to be tightened by
turning it clockwise, (c) a nozzle or nozzle filter needs to be replaced as liquid has
been aspirated into it, or (d) a nozzle seal is worn or torn.
NNOOTTEE:: Wear gloves when doing this procedure.
1. Push the ejector slide in until it clicks to fully
expose the pipette’s nozzles.
(F r 0.5-20µL m dels, see n te bel w)
2. Remove the affected nozzle(s) by placing the
rubber tubing provided onto nozzle, and unscrew
it in a counterclockwise direction.
3. Place rubber tubing onto a new nozzle (or nozzle
where filter has been replaced), and screw the
nozzle onto the pipette in a clockwise direction.
Firmly tighten and remove tubing from nozzle.
Cleaning Exterior
Disinfecting ozzles
ozzle Removal and
Installation
5
MAI TE A CE & TROUBLESHOOTI G

Ovation BioNatural Pipette – Multichannel Operator’s Guide 5 - 2
Special Note for 0.5–20µL Models:
To remove a nozzle(s) on 0.5–20µL models, the rear
panel of the ejector sleeve needs to be removed.
Remove two screws on the panel, and slide it away
as shown. Remove springs from posts, and
remove affected nozzle(s) with tubing provided.
After nozzle or filter(s) have been replaced, reinstall
springs, rear panel and screws.
1. Remove the filter inside the nozzle(s) by
inserting a straightened paperclip into the small
hole in the tip end of the nozzle, and push the
filter out through the wide (threaded) opening.
2. Pick up a new nozzle filter with tweezers and
place it into the wide (threaded) end of the
nozzle.
NOTE: Make sure the narrow end is inserted first
3. Use the filter insertion tool to push the filter into
position. Press down until the end of the tool
makes contact with the inside bottom of the
nozzle.
4. Tap the nozzle on the counter to remove any
loose cellulose material.
5. The nozzle is ready for re-installation.
ozzle Removal and
Installation
(continued)
Replacing a ozzle
Filter