Sutter Instrument MP-225 User manual

MP-225
Motorized Micromanipulator
System
Operation Manual
Rev. 1.70 ( 20150316)
One Digital Drive
Novato, CA 94949
Voice: 415-883-0128 Web: www.sutter.com
Fax: [phone] Email:[e-mail]

MP-225 MOTORIZED MICROMANIPULATOR SYSTEM OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 1.70 (20150316)
ii
Copyright © 2015 Sutter Instrument Company. All Rights Reserved.

iii
DISLAIMER
The MP-225 Micromanipulator is designed for the specific use of moving micropipettes in
three-dimensional space in increments of micrometers into and out of an optical pathway of a
microscope and no other use is recommended.
This instrument is designed for use in a laboratory environment. It is not intended for use,
nor should it be used, in human experimentation or applied to humans in any way. This is
not a medical device.
Do not open or attempt to repair the instrument. Extreme heat and high voltages are
present and could cause injury.
Do not allow unauthorized and/or untrained operative to use this device.
Any misuse will be the sole responsibility of the user/owner and Sutter Instrument Company
assumes no implied or inferred liability for direct or consequential damages from this
instrument if it is operated or used in any way other than for which it is designed.
SAFETY WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
Electrical
•Operate the MP-225 using 110-120 V AC, 60 Hz, or 220-240 V AC., 50 Hz line voltage.
This instrument is designed for connection to a standard laboratory power outlet
(Overvoltage Category II), and because it is a microprocessor--controlled device, it should
be accorded the same system wiring precautions as any 'computer type' system. A surge
protector and power regulator are recommended.
•Fuse Replacement: Replace fuse only with the same type and rating as indicated in
the following table.
Fuse
(Type: Time Delay, 5mm x 20mm, glass tube)
Mains Voltage Setting
Rating Manufacturer Examples
“110” (100 – 120 VAC) 2A, 250V (Time
Delay)
Bussmann: GMC-2A, GMC-2-R (RoHS),
GDC-2A, or S506-2A (RoHS)
Littelfuse: 239 002 or 239.002.P (RoHS)
“220” (200 – 240 VAC) T1.0A, 250V Bussmann: GDC-1A or S506-1A (RoHS)
Littelfuse: 218 001 or 218 001.P (RoHS)
A spare fuse is located in the power input module. Please refer to the fuse-replacement
appendix for more details on fuse ratings and for instructions on how to change the fuse.
Avoiding Electrical Shock and Fire-related Injury
Always use the grounded power supply cord set provided to connect the system to a
grounded outlet (3-prong). This is required to protect you from injury in the event that
an electrical hazard occurs.
Do not disassemble the system. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.
To prevent fire or shock hazard do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.
MP-225 MOTORIZED MICROMANIPULATOR SYSTEM OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 1.70 (20150316)

i
v
Electromagnetic Interference
To comply with FDA and CE electromagnetic immunity and interference standards; and to
reduce the electromagnetic coupling between this and other equipment in your lab always
use the type and length of interconnect cables provided with the unit for the interconnection
of controller and manipulator mechanical and controller and ROE (see the TECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONS appendix for more details).
Operational
Failure to comply with any of the following precautions may damage this device.
This instrument is designed for operation in a laboratory environment (Pollution Degree
I) that is free from mechanical vibrations, electrical noise and transients.
This unit is not designed for operation at altitudes above 2000 meters nor was it tested
for safety above 2000 meters.
Before making electrical connections, ensure that the instrument is switched off.
DO NOT CONNECT OR DISCONNECT THE CABLES BETWEEN THE
CONTROLLER AND THE MECHANICAL UNITS WHILE POWER IS ON.
Please allow at least 20 seconds after turning the unit off before disconnecting the
mechanical units. Failure to do this may result in damage to the electronics.
Operate this instrument only according to the instructions included in this manual.
Do not operate if there is any obvious damage to any part of the instrument.
Operate only in a location where there is a free flow of fresh air on all sides.
NEVER ALLOW THE FREE FLOW OF AIR TO BE RESTRICTED.
•Do not operate this instrument near flammable materials. The use of any hazardous
materials with this instrument is not recommended and if undertaken is done so at the
users’ own risk.
•Do not attempt to operate the instrument with the manipulator shipping screws in
place - severe motor damage may result.
•Do not operate if there is any obvious damage to any part of the instrument. Do not
attempt to operate the instrument with the manipulator shipping screws in place - severe
motor damage may result. When transporting the mechanical manipulator, be sure to
install the shipping screws supplied in their correct locations. Failure to do this may
result in damage to the motors.
•Never touch any part of the micromanipulator electromechanical device while it is in
operation and moving. Doing so can result in physical injury (e.g., fingers can be caught
and pinched between the moving parts of the micromanipulator).
MP-225 MOTORIZED MICROMANIPULATOR SYSTEM OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 1.70 (20150316)

v
•As with all microinjection devices, sharp micropipettes can fly out of their holder
unexpectedly. Always take precautions to prevent this from happening. Never loosen the
micropipette holder chuck when the tubing is pressurized, and never point micropipette
holders at yourself or others. Always wear safety glasses when using sharp glass
micropipettes with pressure microinjectors.
•Do not handle the manipulator mechanical while the power is on, and take care to
ensure no cables pass close to the mechanical manipulator.
Other
Use this instrument only for microinjection purposes in conjunction with the procedures
and guidelines in this manual.
Retain the original packaging for future transport of the instrument.
Some applications, such as piezo-impact microinjection call for the use of mercury in the
micropipette tip. The use of any hazardous materials with any Sutter Instrument’s
instrument is not recommended and if undertaken is done so at the users’ own risk.
When transporting the mechanical manipulator, be sure to install the shipping screws
supplied in their correct locations. Failure to do this may result in damage to the motors.
This instrument contains no user-serviceable components — do not open the instrument
casing. This instrument should be serviced and repaired only by Sutter Instrument or an
authorized Sutter Instrument servicing agent.
Sutter Instrument reserves the right to change specifications without prior notice.
This device is intended only for research purposes.
Handling Micropipettes
Failure to comply with any of the following precautions may result in injury to the users
of this device as well as those working in the general area near the device.
The micropipettes used with this instrument are very sharp and relatively fragile.
Contact with the pulled micropipette tips, therefore, should be avoided to prevent
accidentally impaling yourself.
Always dispose of micropipettes by placing them into a well-marked, spill-proof “sharps”
container.
MP-225 MOTORIZED MICROMANIPULATOR SYSTEM OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 1.70 (20150316)

vi
(This page intentionally left blank.)
MP-225 MOTORIZED MICROMANIPULATOR SYSTEM OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 1.70 (20150316)

vii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
DISLAIMER.............................................................................................................................................3
SAFETY WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS ....................................................................................iii
Electrical .................................................................................................................................................iii
Avoiding Electrical Shock and Fire-related Injury.............................................................................iii
Electromagnetic Interference ...............................................................................................................iv
Operational .............................................................................................................................................iv
Other ........................................................................................................................................................ v
Handling Micropipettes.......................................................................................................................... v
1. GENERAL INFORMATION..............................................................................................................1
1.1 Introduction.......................................................................................................................................1
1.2 About This Manual...........................................................................................................................1
1.3 Technical Support.............................................................................................................................1
2. INSTALLATION .................................................................................................................................3
2.1 Unpacking..........................................................................................................................................3
2.2 Mounting Instructions .....................................................................................................................3
2.2.1 Modular Construction ...............................................................................................................3
2.3 Electrical Connections......................................................................................................................5
2.4 Instructions Used in Special Installations Only............................................................................6
2.4.1 Installing and Using the Right Angle Adapter (2852RA)......................................................6
2.5 Configuration Settings .....................................................................................................................6
2.5.1 Configuring Angle of Diagonal Mode Movement ...................................................................6
2.5.2 Configuring Movement Display for each Axis when turning ROE Knob Clockwise..........7
2.5.3 Configuring the Inclusion of Y-Axis in Home and Work Pos. Robotic Moves.....................7
3. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS........................................................................................................9
4. INSTRUCTIONS FOR CHANGING HANDEDNESS..................................................................11
APPENDIX A. LIMITED WARRANTY..............................................................................................13
APPENDIX B. ACCESSORIES............................................................................................................15
APPENDIX C. FUSE REPLACEMENT.............................................................................................17
APPENDIX D. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS.............................................................................19
MP-225 MOTORIZED MICROMANIPULATOR SYSTEM OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 1.70 (20150316)

MP-225 MOTORIZED MICROMANIPULATOR SYSTEM OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 1.70 (20150316)
viii
TABLE OF FIGURES
Figure 2-1. Position of locking setscrews on the front of the MP-225/M. ............................................ 4
Figure 4-1. Changing manipulator handedness.................................................................................... 11
Figure C-1. Power entry module............................................................................................................ 17
Figure C-2. Fuse holder........................................................................................................................... 17
TABLE OF TABLES
Table 2-1. Configuring the Angle of Diagonal-Mode Movements. ........................................................ 7
Table 2-2. Configuring Movement Display for Each Axis’ ROE Knob Clockwise Turn..................... 7
Table 2-3. Configuring the inclusion of Y-axis in Home and Work Pos. robotic moves. .................... 8
Table C-1. Fuse type and rating..............................................................................................................18
Table D-1. Mains fuse type and rating. .................................................................................................. 20
Table D-2. MP-225 Controller cables and receptacles/connectors. ..................................................... 20

1
1. GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 Introduction
The MP-225 is designed primarily for positioning patch and intracellular recording pipettes.
An extended version of Sutter Instrument’s rotary optical encoder (ROE) is the input device
for the MP-225. The system provides for a synthetic 4th axis for diagonal advancement of the
pipette; and up to 16 different angles can be configured. Speed and resolution of movement
are easily selected with a multiple position thumbwheel, allowing fast/coarse movement and
slow/ultra-fine movement in 10 increments. Two commonly used robotic movements are
incorporated for user convenience. A single button press can initiate a move to a Home
position for pipette exchange or to a user-defined Work position for quick location of the
pipette near the recording location.
The display on the ROE provides position location showing all three coordinates. As all
controls are located on the ROE, the controller cabinet can be situated to a less-accessible
area of your setup, thereby not requiring that it occupy prime space in an equipment rack
1.2 About This Manual
The MP-225 Micromanipulator System is comprised of three basic parts: the controller (MP-
225), manipulator mechanical (MP-225/M), and a human-interface device called the ROE-225
(ROE = Rotary Optical Encoder).
In the next, few pages you will find a product description to help you become acquainted with
operation, followed by installation instructions, and then detailed operating instructions.
Please take the time to read these instructions to assure the safe and proper use of this
instrument.
This manual is continually being updated. If you encounter any areas you feel should be
covered in expanded detail we would like to hear from you. Please contact our Technical
Support staff with your suggestions (415-883-0128 or [e-mail]).
1.3 Technical Support
Unlimited technical support is provided by Sutter Instrument Company at no charge to our
customers. Our technical support staff is available between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00
PM (Pacific Time) at [phone]. You may also E-mail your queries to [e-mail].
MP-225 MOTORIZED MICROMANIPULATOR SYSTEM OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 1.70 (20150316)

MP-225 MOTORIZED MICROMANIPULATOR SYSTEM OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 1.70 (20150316)
2
(This page intentionally left blank.)

3
2. INSTALLATION
2.1 Unpacking
The MP-225 and associated hardware and associated hardware comes packed in a single
carton. The following is a list of the components found there. If you believe that any of these
components are missing or show obvious signs of damage from shipping, please contact the
factory.
Manipulator mechanical1
Tabletop controller unit
Extended ROE
25-pin cable to connect the controller with the mechanical cable adapter (the cable
adapter converts the 25-pin cable to the three short modular cables that are permanently
attached to the mechanical).
8-pin modular cable to connect the ROE with the controller
Rod holder
Dovetail extension (4 inches (10.16 cm))
Mounting adapter plate
Screws
Hex wrench
Power cord
Manual*
For detailed information on mounting our micromanipulators, refer to the Mounting Systems
section or phone for assistance.
The MP-225 system is shipped to you in a prefabricated foam mold. Please take note of this
method of packaging. Should it ever be necessary to ship the MP-225 to another location, the
same method of packaging should be employed. Additional packing material may be
purchased from Sutter Instruments Company.
IMPORTANT: Improper packaging is a form of abuse and, as such, can be responsible for
voiding the warranty where shipping damage is sustained because of such packing.
2.2 Mounting Instructions
2.2.1 Modular Construction
The three axes of the MP-225 are identical. They are connected to each other with tapered
pegs and locking screws, four between each axis. One simply slides the pegs on the top of one
axis into complimentary holes on the next to assemble a manipulator. Tightening the hex
screw that threads from the side into each peg hole locks one axis to the next. The
1The MP-225 manipulator mechanical is set up for either right- or left-handed use. The handedness is determined when the system is
ordered.
MP-225 MOTORIZED MICROMANIPULATOR SYSTEM OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 1.70 (20150316)

4
manipulator is shipped pre-assembled in either a right or a left-handed configuration.
Because of the modular construction, handedness can be easily switched. In the standard
configuration, the axes are stacked X, Y, and Z from bottom to top.
The manipulator mounts to its mounting adapter plate using another four tapered pegs with
locking screws. See Figure 2-1 for the location of the front locking setscrews. The rear pair
is in a similar location in the back of the manipulator. The manipulator is shipped with the
adapter plate in place. To remove it, first loosen the hex screws that secure the manipulator
to the pegs in the adapter plate. Next, pull the square mounting plate off the bottom of the
manipulator. The mounting plate can be secured to any flat surface carrying ¼-20 or 10-32
holes on one-inch centers (such as a Sutter MT-stand or MD series platform) using the
supplied hardware. Once the plate is mounted, align the pegs on top of the plate with the
holes in the manipulator, push the X-axis firmly onto the plate, and re-tighten the locking
hex set screws.
Figure 2-1. Position of locking setscrews on the front of the MP-225/M.
The modular construction allows for some flexibility in the connections between axes. In
addition, the 3 axes can be used separately or assembled in non-standard configurations. If
you assemble the manipulator in other configurations, make sure that the axes do not
interfere with one another! For example, if the Z-axis is mounted in a lower location on the
right angle that connects it to the Y-axis, it may interfere with the full travel of the Y-axis.
MP-225 MOTORIZED MICROMANIPULATOR SYSTEM OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 1.70 (20150316)

5
If you intend to use the right angle adapter (2852RA) with your MP-225 in order to rotate the
manipulator 90 degrees, please see “Instructions used in Special Installations Only” near the
end of this manual.
The rotary dovetail on the front of the MP-225 provides a mounting surface for most common
headstages. Axon headstages 203B or CV-7 and the Heka EPC-10 headstage all have
dovetails that fit directly into the dovetail on the manipulator. Older Axon headstages and
the Heka EPC headstages are accommodated by use of a 4-inch dovetail and a plastic plate.
Rod mounted headstages are accommodated by use of a rod clamp that fits into the dovetail.
All the headstage adapters and mounting hardware are included with the manipulator and
are located in a zip-lock plastic bag.
The angle of the rotary dovetail is adjusted by loosening the hex set screw located on the side
of the swing-out gate. You can set a particular angle using the knife-edge on the dovetail
and the scale on the faceplate. Tighten the screw securely to fix the angle.
To change pipettes, loosen the thumbscrew. The swing-out gate will open allowing the
headstage and holder to rotate almost 90 degrees. Make sure to swing the gate tightly closed
and tighten the thumbscrew securely while holding the gate closed. The thumbscrew is
designed to pull the gate closed with tightening. Thumb and finger tightening is sufficient.
The height of the swing-out gate on the front of the Z-axis is adjustable. To change the
position, open the gate and loosen the 4 Phillips-head screws that mount the swing gate. As
shipped from the factory, the gate is positioned to allow access to the shipping screw holes.
You may find it beneficial to move the gate up before you start using your MP-225.
2.3 Electrical Connections
You will find three cables supplied with your MP-225: a power cable, a DB-25 cable, and a
modular 8-pin cable similar to that used in telecommunications. In addition, three short
modular cables are permanently attached to the manipulator mechanical unit. The other
pieces of the unit are the controller (large beige rectangular box with on/off switch), the ROE
(the black trapezoidal box with three knobs and 5 buttons), and the connector box (small,
black rectangular box with three modular connectors and one DB-25 connector).
First, connect one end of the power cable to the controller (beige box) and the other to a
source of power. You may need to change the power-input module to the correct line input
voltage (110 or 220VAC). The units are normally configured for the shipping destination, but
you should check to make sure this switch is correct. It can be changed using a small,
straight-blade screwdriver.
Next, connect the ROE input box to the controller using the black, 8-pin modular cable.
Finally, connect the manipulator mechanical to the connector box by connecting its three
modular wires to the appropriate modular connectors on the box. Connect the connector
box to the controller using the beige DB-25 cable. In principle, you can connect the cable
from any mechanical axis to any of the three connectors on the connector box, but Sutter
conventions will only be preserved if the X, Y, and Z axes are plugged in to the corresponding
X, Y, and Z outputs on the connector box. Looking at the manipulator mechanical with the
rotary dovetail facing you, the Z-axis moves up and down (pipette in and out of focus), the X-
axis moves left and right (pipette moving axially), and the Y-axis moves toward and away
from you (pipette laterally).
MP-225 MOTORIZED MICROMANIPULATOR SYSTEM OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 1.70 (20150316)

6
2.4 Instructions Used in Special Installations Only
2.4.1 Installing and Using the Right Angle Adapter (2852RA)
Open the swing-out gate and remove it from the front of the MP225 by removing the four
Phillips-head screws. Next, install the right angle adapter on the front of the MP225 using
the supplied M3-0.5 hex head screws. Finally, install the swing out gate on the right angle
adapter using the four Phillips-head screws. With the right angle in place, the manipulator
(right handed) can be turned 90 degrees clockwise so that its bulk faces to the right instead
of the back of your microscope.
Having made the 90-degree rotation, if you wish to use the automated features and diagonal
movement mode of the MP225, two other minor changes must be made:
First, as the X and Y-axes have interchanged with the 90-degree rotation, the wires
controlling these two axes must be switched at the connector box.
Second, in order to have the Y axis movement be in the forward direction during the home
move, you need to rotate the Y axis 180 degrees with respect to the rest of the manipulator.
To reverse the Y (bottom axis in the rotated configuration), locate and loosen the 4 set screws
that attach the Y to the X. These are on the sides of the X or middle axis in the stack. When
the set screws are loose, you can move the Y off the X, rotate it 180 degrees and reinsert its
mounting posts into the correct holes in the X (the holes with set screws). Finally, press the
two axes firmly together and re-tighten the setscrews. Now the Y-axis will move forward
during the home move and back during the work position move.
2.5 Configuration Settings
The DIP (Dual Inline Package) switches are located on the back of the extended ROE box.
They are numbered 1 through 8. In all cases, the 0 or off position is in the direction of the
switch number and the 1 or on position is in the opposite direction and is also indicated by an
arrow and the word “ON” next to Switch 1. In order for any new switch settings to take
effect, the controller must be powered off and on.
2.5.1 Configuring Angle of Diagonal Mode Movement
DIP Switches 1, 2, 3 and 4 set the angle of the Diagonal mode movement.
The table gives the angles that can be used and the DIP-switch settings of switches 1,2,3 and
4.
MP-225 MOTORIZED MICROMANIPULATOR SYSTEM OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 1.70 (20150316)

7
Table 2-1. Configuring the Angle of Diagonal-Mode Movements.
DIP Switch NumberDiagonal Mode Movement
Angle 1 2 3 4
Comments
7 1 1 1 1
11 0 1 1 1
14 1 0 1 1
21 0 0 1 1
27 1 1 0 1
29 0 1 0 1 *Factory default (close to 30°)
35 1 0 0 1
39 0 0 0 1
Angles equal to
or less steep than
45°
45 1 1 1 0
39 0 1 1 0
35 1 0 1 0
29 0 0 1 0
27 1 1 0 0
21 0 1 0 0
14 1 0 0 0
Angles steeper
than 45°
11 0 0 0 0
2.5.2 Configuring Movement Display for each Axis when turning ROE Knob Clockwise
DIP Switches 5, 6 and 7 set the direction of the movement produced by a clockwise turn
(advancing right hand screw) of the ROE knob for each axis.
With the switch set to 0, a clockwise turn of the knob produces a decrement in the display,
when the switch is set to 1, a clockwise turn of the knob produces an increment in the
display. An increment in the display coincides with movement downward in the Z-axis,
movement toward the rear of your setup in the Y-axis and movement producing pipette
advancement in the X-axis.
The factory default is 1,1,1 for switches 5,6 and 7.
Table 2-2. Configuring Movement Display for Each Axis’ ROE Knob Clockwise Turn.
DIP Switch Number 5 6 7
Corresponding Axis X Y Z
Switch Position 0 1 0 1 0 1
Displayed Movement Decrement Increment Decrement Increment Decrement Increment
2.5.3 Configuring the Inclusion of Y-Axis in Home and Work Pos. Robotic Moves
DIP Switch 8 determines whether or not the Y-axis is included in Home and Work Pos.
robotic moves.
If switch 8 is set to 0, the Y axis is moved to a location where the pipette is towards the user
in Home move and is moved back to whatever Y coordinate was recorded during Set-Work
Pos. in the Work Pos. move. If switch 8 is set to 1, the Y axis is not moved (Y position
MP-225 MOTORIZED MICROMANIPULATOR SYSTEM OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 1.70 (20150316)

MP-225 MOTORIZED MICROMANIPULATOR SYSTEM OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 1.70 (20150316)
8
ignored) during the Home or Work Pos. moves. The factory default for switch 8 is 0 (the Y
axis will move during Home and Work Pos. moves).
Table 2-3. Configuring the inclusion of Y-axis in Home and Work Pos. robotic moves.
DIP Switch
8
Include Y-Axis in Home and
Work Pos. Robotic Moves
0 Yes
1 No

9
3. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Once the electrical connections have been made, you can power up the unit using the on/off
switch on the front of the controller. As it initializes, it will briefly display the version of the
installed firmware. As the power switch is the only control you will need to access on the
controller, it can be placed in an out of the way location (e.g. under your bench).
All functions necessary during normal operation are provided by 5 push buttons, a MODE
Selector and three rotary optical encoder (ROE) knobs located on the ROE input box. Other
set-up functions are done via DIP switches located on the back of the ROE box.
The three ROE knobs control the three axes of the manipulator (right knob X, left knob Y,
and top knob Z). The direction of movement commanded by a clockwise turn of the knob is
controlled by a DIP switch (one for each axis) located on the back of the ROE. (See DIP
switch setting instructions).
The MODE Selector changes the speed and the relative fineness of movement of the
manipulator when rotating the ROE knobs. Setting 0 is for course movement at high speed
and setting 9 is for very fine movement at very slow speed. In practice, most users will find
that speed 5 or 6 will provide the necessary fineness of movement for approaching cells. The
current MODE setting is displayed in the upper right of the ROE display.
The five push buttons have the following functions:
Stop/Set: When held down, the “Stop/Set” button performs a “Set” function in combination
with either the “Work Pos.” or “Center” keys (see below). Think of it as a shift key when
held down.
Pressing the “Stop/Set” button during a robotic move (see “Center”, “Home”, and “Work
Pos.” below) will immediately “Stop” the movement. Think of this as your panic button
when you see your pipette headed somewhere that you don’t want it to go! If you have used
the “Stop” button to stop robotic movement, you need to cycle the power off/on and then run
Center (see below) to completely recover normal function.
Diag/Norm: Pressing the “Diag/Norm” button will cause the green LED to light, indicating
the MP-225 is in Diagonal mode. When in this mode, rotation of the Z-axis knob produces
diagonal movement. A second press will put the MP-225 back into Normal mode. When in
diagonal mode, the X and Y knobs remain active, allowing you to re-adjust the X and Y
positioning of the pipette as you approach a cell in diagonal mode. Angle of diagonal mode
movement is set via DIP switches on the back of the ROE box. (See DIP switch setting
instructions). When using MODE 9 (rotary thumb wheel set to 9) Diagonal mode produces
short, quick, impulse-like movement that may be useful in sharp pipette impalements.
Home: When pressed, the manipulator will make a move to a factory determined “Home”
location along a stereotypic path. The Home location is defined as the location where you
would most likely exchange your pipette. It is coordinate 0,0,0 and is maximal up on the Z-
axis, maximal right on the X-axis (maximal left on a left-handed manipulator) and maximal
front on the Y -axis. The path of the movement is first along the currently set diagonal until
either the X-axis or Z-axis reaches its origin (0). Which one of these occurs first is a function
of the diagonal angle and the location at the time “Home” is pressed. Once the first limit is
reached, the unit will move the two remaining axes simultaneously to their origins (0). The
MP-225 MOTORIZED MICROMANIPULATOR SYSTEM OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 1.70 (20150316)

MP-225 MOTORIZED MICROMANIPULATOR SYSTEM OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 1.70 (20150316)
10
one allowed change in this stereotyped move is that the Y-axis move can be eliminated. This
is done via a DIP switch on the back of the ROE. (See DIP switch setting instructions).
Work Pos.: The Work Pos. button has two functions. When the “Set” button is held down,
pressing and releasing “Work Pos.” makes the current location the “Work Position”. A
beeper will sound to indicate that the operation is complete and the current location has been
saved. Typically, this will be a location where the pipette tip is near your preparation (cells
or tissue of interest). When “Work Pos.” is pressed alone, after a Work Pos. has been set and
after the manipulator has just made a move to “Home”, then the manipulator will move to
the preset work position. The move will occur along the predefined path that the
manipulator moved to get to “Home” as described above, but in the opposite direction. This
is the reason why “Work Pos.” moves must follow “Home” moves as the move to Home
defines the return trip. In either case, the movement along the diagonal as you come in and
out of the preparation/dish/bath should assure that the pipette tip cannot hit anything on the
way in or out.
Center: Center is a function that will normally only be used when the unit is first set up.
The Center move should only be done in the absence of a pipette as the manipulator makes
large robotic movements to its extreme ranges of motion. To activate Center, press “Set” and
while holding it down press and release “Center”. This will cause a prolonged movement in
each axis to the end of travel (EOT) sensors beyond the origin (0,0,0). Once the sensors are
found, a short move in the opposite direction is made and this location is defined as (0,0,0).
Finally, the unit moves to the location (12500, 12500, 12500). This is equivalent to the center
of travel of each axis. Once the Center function has been run, each axis is limited (in
firmware) to movement between 0 to 25000 microns. As the EOT sensors are located just
beyond these soft limits, you should never reach the hardware end of travel. If an axis does
travel past the EOT sensor, you will see EOT on the display of the ROE. If this occurs, it is a
good idea to run the Center routine again to re-establish the soft limits. You should turn the
unit off and back on before running the Center routine. If you find you need to run the
center routine often (seeing EOT soon after running Center), you should contact Sutter
Instrument Company for advice.