Sutter Instrument P-97 Installation manual

P-97
Flaming/Brown™ Micropipette
Puller
Operation Manual
Rev. 2.43 - DOM ( 20161118)
One Digital Drive
Novato, CA 94949
Voice: 415-883-0128 Web: www.sutter.com
Fax: [phone] Email:[e-mail]

P-97 FLAMING/BROWN MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 2.43 - DOM (20161118)
ii
Q
Copyright © 2016 Sutter Instrument Company. All Rights Reserved.
Flaming/Brown™ is a trademark of Sutter Instrument.

iii
DISCLAIMER
The pipette puller Model P-97 is designed for the specific use of creating micropipettes and no
other use is recommended.
This instrument creates items that should only be used in a laboratory environment for use
on animal tissues. It is not intended for use, nor should 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 without expressed and explicit instructions
from Sutter Instrument Company. Extreme heat and high voltages are present and could
cause injury.
Do not allow unauthorized and or untrained operatives to use this device.
Any misuse will be the sole responsibility of the user/owner and Sutter Instruments 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 P-97 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 only with the same type and rating:
Type: 5 x 20 mm glass tube, Medium Time Delay (IEC 60127-2, Sheet III) or
Time Lag, RoHS compliant.
Rating: 3A 250V (3 Amps, 250 Volts)
Examples: Bussmann GMC-3A or GMC-3-R; or Littelfuse 239 003 or 239 003.P)
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.
P-97 FLAMING/BROWN MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 2.43 - DOM (20161118)

i
v
Back Injury Prevention
To avoid injuring your back or limbs it is recommended that you do not attempt to lift this
instrument by yourself. The P-97 Micropipette Puller weighs in excess of 18 kg (over 39 lb)
and should be moved by TWO (2) people.
Operational
Failure to comply with any of the following precautions may damage this device.
•Operate this unit using the indicated line voltage.
•This unit is designed for operation in a laboratory environment (Pollution Degree II) and
at temperatures between 5°C - 40°C.
•This unit is designed for connection to a standard laboratory power outlet (overvoltage
Category II) with main supply voltage fluctuations not to exceed ± 10% of the normal
voltage.
•This unit is not designed for operation, nor has it been tested for safety, at altitudes above
2000 meters (6562 feet).
•This unit was designed to operate at maximum relative humidity of 80% for temperatures
up to 31°C decreasing linearly to 50% relative humidity at 40°C.
•Operate only in a location where there is a free flow of fresh air on all sides. The fan
draws air in through the vents on the sides and exhausts out both ends of the heat sink.
NEVER ALLOW THE FREE FLOW OF AIR TO BE RESTRICTED.
To avoid burns do not touch the heating filament, the brass clamps holding the
filament, or the heated ends of glass pipettes that have been pulled.
•
•Only use Sutter Instrument Company replacement heating filaments.
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 created using 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.
•Use only with capillary glass (tubing) recommended by Sutter Instrument (see 1.2.1
Glass Capillary).
P-97 FLAMING/BROWN MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 2.43 - DOM (20161118)

v
TABLE OF CONTENTS
DISCLAIMER .........................................................................................................................................iii
SAFETY WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS ....................................................................................iii
Electrical .................................................................................................................................................iii
Avoiding Electrical Shock and Fire-related Injury.............................................................................iii
Back Injury Prevention .........................................................................................................................iv
Operational .............................................................................................................................................iv
Handling Micropipettes.........................................................................................................................iv
1. GENERAL INFORMATION..............................................................................................................1
1.1 What’s New on the P-97?.................................................................................................................1
1.2 Glass Capillary & Heating Filament Specifications......................................................................2
1.2.1 Glass Capillary............................................................................................................................2
1.2.2 Heating Filament .......................................................................................................................2
1.3 Technical Support.............................................................................................................................2
1.4 System Description – Front Panel ..................................................................................................2
1.4.1 Controls .......................................................................................................................................3
1.4.2 Display.........................................................................................................................................3
1.5 System Description – Mechanical (Puller Anatomy) ....................................................................5
1.5.1 Some Basic Information ............................................................................................................5
1.5.2 Air Cooling System.....................................................................................................................5
1.5.3 Heating Assembly ......................................................................................................................5
1.5.4 Upper Pulley Assembly .............................................................................................................7
1.6 Cabinet ...............................................................................................................................................8
1.6.1 Electronics...................................................................................................................................8
2. INSTALLATION .................................................................................................................................9
2.1 Unpacking..........................................................................................................................................9
2.2 Setting Up..........................................................................................................................................9
2.2.1 Line Power (Mains)....................................................................................................................9
3. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS......................................................................................................11
3.1 First Time Use ................................................................................................................................11
3.2 Programs..........................................................................................................................................12
3.2.1 Program Structure...................................................................................................................12
3.2.2 Program Line Pull Cycle Parameters ....................................................................................12
3.2.3 Pull Cycle ..................................................................................................................................14
3.2.4 Default Configuration..............................................................................................................14
3.2.5 Selecting a Program (0 to 99)..................................................................................................14
3.2.6 Viewing a Program (< NEXT > / < LAST >) .....................................................................15
3.2.7 Clearing a Program from Memory (< CLR >).....................................................................15
3.2.8 Editing a Program....................................................................................................................15
3.2.8.1 Entering a New Program .................................................................................................16
3.2.8.2 Editing an Existing Program ...........................................................................................16
3.3 Software Control Functions...........................................................................................................16
3.3.1 RAMP TEST < 1 > .................................................................................................................17
3.3.2 CHANGE AIR PRESSURE < 2 > ........................................................................................18
P-97 FLAMING/BROWN MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 2.43 - DOM (20161118)

vi
3.3.3 AIR MODE < 3 > ....................................................................................................................18
3.3.4 AIR TIME AT START OF PULL < 4 >...............................................................................19
3.3.5 AIR TIME AT END OF PULL < 5 > ...................................................................................19
3.3.6 RESET TIME AND DATE < 6 >..........................................................................................19
3.3.7 WRITE-PROTECT THE PROGRAM < 7 > .......................................................................19
3.3.8 MEMORY TEST < 8 >...........................................................................................................20
3.4 Pulling Pipettes...............................................................................................................................20
3.4.1 Procedures ................................................................................................................................20
3.4.2 Notes on Program Operation..................................................................................................21
3.5 Parameter Adjustment...................................................................................................................21
3.5.1 General Information ................................................................................................................21
3.5.2 Micropipette/Microinjection Needle Fabrication..................................................................22
3.5.2.1 HEAT..................................................................................................................................22
3.5.2.2 PULL Strength..................................................................................................................22
3.5.2.3 VELOCITY (Trip Point)...................................................................................................22
3.5.2.4 TIME Mode (Cooling) .......................................................................................................23
3.5.2.5 Delay Mode (Cooling)........................................................................................................23
3.5.2.6 PRESSURE Adjustment ..................................................................................................24
3.5.2.7 Filament Width..................................................................................................................24
3.5.3 Patch Pipette Fabrication .......................................................................................................24
3.5.3.1 HEAT..................................................................................................................................24
3.5.3.2 PULL Strength..................................................................................................................25
3.5.3.3 VELOCITY (Trip Point)...................................................................................................25
3.5.3.4 Cooling ................................................................................................................................25
3.5.3.5 PRESSURE........................................................................................................................25
3.5.4 Step-by-Step Patch Pipette Programming ............................................................................25
3.5.5 Technical Tips for Pulling Micropipettes ..............................................................................27
3.5.5.1 Regulating the Time it takes to pull a Sharp Pipette....................................................27
3.5.5.1.1 Pipette Position...........................................................................................................27
3.5.5.2 Regulating the Length and Tip Size of a Sharp Pipette ...............................................27
3.5.5.2.1 Filament Width...........................................................................................................27
3.5.5.2.2 Air Flow .......................................................................................................................27
3.5.5.2.3 DELAY Mode of Active Cooling ................................................................................27
3.5.6 Fire Polishing............................................................................................................................28
3.6 Heating Filaments ..........................................................................................................................29
3.6.1 General Information ................................................................................................................29
3.6.2 Filament Positioning and Aligning ........................................................................................29
3.6.3 Box Filament ............................................................................................................................30
3.6.3.1 Positioning..........................................................................................................................30
3.6.3.2 Geometry ............................................................................................................................31
3.6.4 Trough Filament ......................................................................................................................31
3.6.4.1 Positioning..........................................................................................................................32
3.6.4.2 Geometry ............................................................................................................................32
4. MAINTENANCE...............................................................................................................................33
4.1 Cleaning ...........................................................................................................................................33
4.2 Heating Filament Replacement ....................................................................................................33
4.2.1 Filament Replacement (Step by Step) ...................................................................................33
4.2.2 Air jet Position..........................................................................................................................33
P-97 FLAMING/BROWN MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 2.43 - DOM (20161118)

vii
4.2.3 Positioning the Filament in Relation to the Glass Capillary ..............................................33
4.3 Pulley Adjustment ..........................................................................................................................35
4.4 Regeneration of Drierite Granules................................................................................................36
4.4.1 Removing the Canister ............................................................................................................36
4.4.2 Replacing the Granules ...........................................................................................................36
4.4.3 Reinstalling the Canister.........................................................................................................37
5. TROUBLESHOOTING ....................................................................................................................39
5.1 Controlling Pipette Tip Shapes .....................................................................................................39
5.1.1 Problem: What type of glass should be used? .......................................................................39
5.1.2 Problem: The resistance of pulled pipettes is too low. How can a higher-resistance
pipette be pulled?...............................................................................................................................39
5.1.3 Problem: Okay, but how can tips be made even smaller. ....................................................39
5.1.4 Problem: How can the size of a patch-pipette be increased?...............................................40
5.1.5 Problem: Patch-pipette tips vary in size from pull to pull...................................................40
5.1.6 Problem: Difficulty making an injection pipette with a 0.5 – 1 mm tip that also has a
very short final taper and tip (20 to 50 mm long). How can this be done? .................................40
5.1.7 Problem: The electrodes are bent. How can they be made to pull straight? .....................40
5.1.8 Problem: One electrode is much longer than the other electrode. .....................................40
5.1.9 Problem: The shape and resistance of the pipette changes from pull to pull....................41
5.2 Controller problems........................................................................................................................41
5.2.1 Problem: The filament does not light up when pull is pressed...........................................41
5.2.2 Problem: Display blank, fan not on, or locked up/overlap...................................................42
5.2.3 Problem: Display only shows a cursor. ..................................................................................42
5.2.4 Problem: Displayed program values are not correct ............................................................42
5.3 Technical Support...........................................................................................................................42
APPENDIX A. Limited Warranty........................................................................................................43
APPENDIX B. Accessories....................................................................................................................45
Filaments ...............................................................................................................................................45
Capillary Glass Tubing.........................................................................................................................45
Other Accessories..................................................................................................................................45
APPENDIX C. Fuse Replacement........................................................................................................47
APPENDIX D. Technical Specifications..............................................................................................49
APPENDIX E. Drierite Material Safety Data Sheet ..........................................................................51
INDEX ....................................................................................................................................................53
TABLE OF FIGURES
Figure 1-1. P-97 Front panel. .................................................................................................................... 2
Figure 1-2. Program Display. .................................................................................................................... 3
Figure 1-3. P-97 base plate (top view, cover removed). ..........................................................................5
Figure 1-4. Filament Block Assembly. ..................................................................................................... 6
Figure 1-5. Upper cable pulley assembly. ................................................................................................ 7
Figure 2-1. P-97 Cabinet (rear view), showing power entry module. ................................................. 10
P-97 FLAMING/BROWN MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 2.43 - DOM (20161118)

P-97 FLAMING/BROWN MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 2.43 - DOM (20161118)
viii
Figure 2-2. P-97 Cabinet (end view, left), showing power switch. ...................................................... 10
Figure 2-3. Power connection.................................................................................................................. 10
Figure 3-1. Loading a piece of glass. ....................................................................................................... 11
Figure 3-2. Power-on display................................................................................................................... 14
Figure 3-3. P-97 Program display. .......................................................................................................... 15
Figure 3-4. Clear Program Display......................................................................................................... 15
Figure 3-5. Access to control functions. ................................................................................................. 16
Figure 3-6. Write protection default state.............................................................................................. 20
Figure 3-7. Pull Cycle Report. ................................................................................................................. 20
Figure 3-8. Sample program.................................................................................................................... 21
Figure 3-9. Pull cycle report (multiple-loops).. ...................................................................................... 21
Figure 3-10. Side view of fire polishing spacer. ..................................................................................... 28
Figure 3-11. Fire Polish Spacer in Puller Bar. ...................................................................................... 29
Figure 3-12. Filament alignment. ........................................................................................................... 29
Figure 3-13. End view of box filament and glass................................................................................... 30
Figure 3-14. Box filament positioning. ................................................................................................... 31
Figure 3-15. End view of trough filament and glass............................................................................. 31
Figure 3-16. Trough filament positioning.............................................................................................. 32
Figure 4-1. V-Groove bearings and puller bars. .................................................................................... 33
Figure 4-2. Filament alignment. ............................................................................................................. 34
Figure 4-3. Micropipette shapes..............................................................................................................35
Figure 4-4. Pulley Adjustment. ............................................................................................................... 36
Figure 5-1. Power entry module. ............................................................................................................ 47
Figure 5-2. Fuse holder. ........................................................................................................................... 48
TABLE OF TABLES
Table 3-1. Standard factory configuration............................................................................................. 14
Table 3-2. Control Functions................................................................................................................... 17
Table 3-3. Maximum heat and recommended starting values for different filament shapes. ......... 18
Table 3-4. Box filament sizes................................................................................................................... 31
Table 3-5. Trough filament sizes.............................................................................................................32

1
1. GENERAL INFORMATION
The P-97 can fabricate pipettes for use in intracellular recording, patch clamping,
transferring (ICSI, ES Cells), microinjection, aspiration, and microperfusion. Realizing the
full potential of this instrument is dependent on a complete understanding of the way it
implements the pulling process. To this end, we urge that this manual be read in its entirety.
To aid in understanding the function of the instrument, sample programs are already loaded
in memory (as discussed in subsequent material).
The Model P-97 Flaming/Brown Micropipette Puller combines a proven pulling technology
with programmability to produce a very versatile instrument. The pulling mechanism is
derived from the P-77/P-80 series of pullers, which have demonstrated the ability to pull a
complete range of pipette profiles. Added to this mechanism is the ability to program
different pulling sequences; thus, allowing ease of use for pulling a multiplicity of pipettes on
one device.
The P-97 is a ‘velocity sensing’ puller. This patented feature allows the puller to indirectly
sense the viscosity of the glass, giving the P-97 the ability to pull pipettes from all glasses
except quartz. Even difficult to pull formulations, such as aluminosilicate glasses, are
handled with relative ease.
Throughout this manual reference will be made to the size of the glass tubing used to pull
micropipettes. The convention used here for describing the outside diameter (O.D.) and
inside diameter (I.D.) is as follows: O.D. x I.D. These dimensions will always be given in
millimeters (mm). See our catalog or visit www.sutter.com to find a wide selection of glass
capillaries available for purchase.
1.1 What’s New on the P-97?
For users familiar with the P-80PC and/or P-87 pullers, the P-97 provides the advanced
features incorporated into those instruments plus:
•Humidity controlled chamber surrounding the heating filament. Glass is now pulled in a
constant humidity environment to minimize environmental effects on pipette
reproducibility.
•Vacuum fluorescent display for improved readability
•25% increase in available power
•Programmable air pressure
•Time of pull displayed at the end of each pull sequence
•Write protection to prevent programs from being corrupted
•Displayed date/time of last program edit
•Increased memory capable of storing 100 programs
•Switchable cooling mode (Time and Delay) to facilitate easy transfer of programs from
both P-80PC and P-87 pullers
P-97 FLAMING/BROWN MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 2.43 - DOM (20161118)

2
1.2 Glass Capillary & Heating Filament Specifications
1.2.1 Glass Capillary
The P-97 micropipette puller is designed for use with aluminosilicate, borosilicate or other
lower melting-point glass tubing or rod ranging from 0.6 to 3.0 mm in diameter. This
instrument does not pull quartz glass. Examples of the specific types and sizes of glass that
can be used with the P-97 are listed in the Sutter Instrument Company catalogue that was
included with this instrument or can be viewed on Sutter Instrument’s web site at
www.sutter.com. Any glass with comparable technical specifications can be used with the P-97.
1.2.2 Heating Filament
The type and size of glass that you choose may require a Heating Filament other than the
one installed in your puller at the factory. Please refer to the Heating Filament section of this
manual to determine the appropriate style and size of filament necessary for pulling the
specific glass you would like to use. This instrument is designed to accommodate any of the
Sutter Instrument Trough-type or Box-type filaments that are shown in the Sutter
Instrument catalogue. This selection of replacement filaments can also be viewed on Sutter
Instrument’s web site at www.sutter.com.
ONLY USE SUTTER-SUPPLIED REPLACEMENT HEATING FILAMENTS IN THIS
INSTRUMENT!
Systematic instructions for replacing the Heating Filament can be found in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
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 Standard Time) at [phone]. You may also Email your queries to
[e-mail].
1.4 System Description – Front Panel
Figure 1-1. P-97 Front panel.
P-97 FLAMING/BROWN MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 2.43 - DOM (20161118)

3
1.4.1 Controls
Vacuum Fluorescent
Display
Displays program parameters.
Reset Re-initializes the controller.
Keypad Used to program parameter values and execute programs.
Keys:
0-9 Used for choosing the desired program or control function,
entering numeric values when programming and to make YES/NO
(1/0) decisions.
CLR Used to delete programs or numeric values entered into those
programs. This key is also used to access the RAMP TEST.
ENTR Used to enter new values.
NEXT Used to move to the next line in a program while editing.
LAST Used to move to the previous line in a program while editing.
PULL Initiates the execution of a program.
STOP Aborts the execution of a program.
1.4.2 Display
The P-97 has a two line vacuum fluorescent display for easy viewing from any angle. The
following figure demonstrates what you will see after you have selected a program. A brief
description of each parameter is provided below.
Write Protection
(
Off
)
Last Date/Time edited
Pressure Setting
UNLOCKED P=500 JAN 18, 1997 2:30 PM
3 1 HEAT=525,PULL=90,VEL.= 80,TIME=250
Pro
g
ram # Pro
g
ram Line #
Figure 1-2. Program Display.
PROGRAM
(0-99)
A program consists of one or more cycles11which, when executed in
sequence, will ‘pull’ the capillary glass inserted in the instrument. A
program can be up to 8 cycles in length
1ACYCLEconsists offourprogrammable parameters;HEAT,PULL,VELOCITY andeitherTIMEorDELAY. ACYCLEisequivalenttoone lineofprogramcode. The
sequenceofeventsduringexecutionofacycleisdescribedinthePROGRAMSSECTIONofthismanual.
P-97 FLAMING/BROWN MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 2.43 - DOM (20161118)

4
WRITE
PROTECTION
(Locked/-
Unlocked)
"locked/unlocked"}Prevents program from being edited when in Locked
mode.
PRESSURE
SETTING
(Range 0-999)
Reports the programmed value of the air pressure during the active
cooling phase of the pull cycle.
DATE/TIME Reports the date and time of the last program edit.
HEAT
(Range 0-999)
HEAT controls the level of electrical current supplied to the filament. The
HEAT required to melt a piece of glass is a function of the filament
installed and the particular glass size and composition. It is important
that the HEAT value be set relative to the Ramp Test value as discussed
in the Operation Section. Generally, changes to HEAT will be made in
steps of about 5 units since in most cases smaller changes will have little
effect.
PULL
(Range 0-255)
This parameter controls the force of the hard pull. In general, the higher
the PULL, the smaller the pipette’s tip diameter and the longer the taper.
Useful changes in PULL strength are 10 units or more to see an effect.
VELOCITY
(Range 0-255)
The velocity of the glass carriage system is measured as the glass softens
and begins to pull apart under a constant load. The increasing velocity of
the initial pull is determined by the viscosity of the glass, which in turn is
a function of the glass temperature. The adjustable velocity allows for a
selection of a precise glass temperature as the trip point for the hard pull.
Useful values for velocity range from 10 to 150 with lower values being
used for patch and injection pipettes and higher values for micropipettes.
SEE THE PROGRAMS SECTION FOR A DISCUSSION OF THE
SIGNIFICANCE OF VELOCITY=0.
TIME
(Range 0-255)
TIME is one of two available modes of cooling and controls the length of
time the cooling air is active. If VEL>0 then one unit of TIME represents
1/2ms. If VEL=0 then one unit of TIME represents 10ms. SEE THE
PROGRAMS SECTION FOR A DISCUSSION OF THE SIGNIFICANCE
OF TIME=0.
DELAY
(Range 0-255)
DELAY is a cooling mode, which controls the delay time between when
the heat turns off and when the hard pull is activated. The air is
automatically turned on for 300ms. The higher the DELAY value, the
cooler the glass will be when the hard pull is executed. Thus, increasing
the DELAY results with decreased taper length and increased tip
diameter. If VEL>0 then one unit of DELAY represents 1 (one)
millisecond (ms). If VEL=0 (when using fire-polish mode), then one unit
represents 10 (ten) ms. SEE THE PROGRAMS SECTION FOR A
DISCUSSION OF THE SIGNIFICANCE OF DELAY=0.
P-97 FLAMING/BROWN MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 2.43 - DOM (20161118)

5
1.5 System Description – Mechanical (Puller Anatomy)
1.5.1 Some Basic Information
This section presents a basic mechanical description of the P-97, with particular emphasis on
terminology. Knowing the names of the various parts greatly facilitates communication
between the investigators and the manufacturer when discussing adjustments or service
problems. In addition, various controls and adjustments on the top of the instrument are
located and described. Those adjustments, which are considered part of maintenance
procedures, are dealt with in the Maintenance Section of this manual.
1.5.2 Air Cooling System
The Model P-97 supplies a blast of air to cool the filament area after the heating segment of a
pull cycle. The components of the air-cooling system are shown below.
Figure 1-3. P-97 base plate (top view, cover removed).
Air
Compressor
The air compressor (or pump) creates the air pressure used to cool the
filament and glass during the pull cycle.
Air Jet Directs the cooling air to the filament. The air jet should be positioned 2 to 3
millimeters below the filament. The screw that secures the air jet to the
filament block can be loosened allowing the jet to move up and down.
Air Valve
Solenoid
Regulates the flow of cooling air to the filament and glass.
Drierite
Canister
(Reservoir
Tank)
A canister filled with Drierite used to remove moisture from the air flowing
between the pump and the air solenoid. The dissected air is used to purge
the Humidity Control Chamber before and after a pull, allowing the flow of
dry air to cool the filament and glass during the pull cycle.
1.5.3 Heating Assembly
The Heating Assembly comprises the Filament, Filament Block Assembly, and the Humidity
Control Chamber. The Filament Block Assembly and the Humidity Control Chamber are
discussed below. Filaments are discussed in a separate section.
P-97 FLAMING/BROWN MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 2.43 - DOM (20161118)

6
Humidity
Control
Chamber
Figure 1-4)
The chamber encloses the filament block assembly to provide a controlled
environment in which to pull the glass. Access holes in the side of the
chamber allow the glass to be loaded into position. The chamber must be
removed to access the heating filament. To remove, unscrew the
thumbscrew on the front plate of the chamber, remove the front plate, and
then pull the chamber towards you.
Figure 1-4. Filament Block Assembly.
Filament
Block
Assembly
(Figure 1-4)
The filament block assembly is made up of several pieces of hard black
nylon. Wires supplying current to the filament are attached to threaded
‘posts’. This current is carried to the filament via the upper and lower Brass
Jaws. Note that these jaws may be moved up and down by loosening the
screws (D) that secure them to the front of the filament block assembly.
When changing the filament type from trough to box (or vice versa), the
jaws must be moved up or down so that the filament is positioned at the
correct level relative to the glass. If the jaws are repositioned and/or the
filament type has been changed, make sure that the securing screws of the
jaws and filament clamp are again tightened. Failure to tighten these screws
can result in poor current flow for scorching and insufficient heat to melt
the glass. Please refer to Filament Replacement in the Maintenance chapter
for additional instructions.
Eccentrics
and Angle
Plate
(Figure 1-4)
The Angle Plate secures the Filament Block Assembly to the Cover Plate; it
contains two eccentric adjustments. The two chrome-plated screws Aand B
are the eccentrics, and A’ and B’ are the corresponding locking screws. By
turning the eccentrics with a screwdriver the Filament Block Assembly can
be moved up and down (A) or forward and back (B) to adjust the position of
the filament. Loosen the locking screw associated with each ‘eccentric screw’
before turning, and tighten after completing the adjustment. Note:
Changing the eccentrics should be made only for fine/small adjustments.
P-97 FLAMING/BROWN MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 2.43 - DOM (20161118)

P-97 FLAMING/BROWN MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 2.43 - DOM (20161118)
7
Cover Plate
(Figure 1-4)
The cover plate conceals the entry of the Pulling Cables into the Base of the
instrument. It is attached to the top by two screws, in slots, at points labeled
C. Loosening these screws allows the Filament Block/Angle Plate assembly
to move forward and back over large distances.
NOTE: The movements of the Cover Plate and the Jaws constitute the ‘coarse adjustments’
of filament position, while the eccentric screws allow ‘fine adjustments’.
1.5.4 Upper Pulley Assembly
This assembly guides the Pulling Cables (T in Figure 1-5)from the Puller Bars (G in Figure
1-5)to the centrally located (and concealed) Lower Cable Pulley Assembly. Note that the
Upper Cable Pulley Assembly is attached to its panel by two screws, in slots (J’ in Figure
1-5), and contains a large eccentric adjustment screw (J in Figure 1-5). This eccentric screw
is used to adjust cable ‘tension’. Its use is covered in the Maintenance Section, and changes
to the settings should not be performed without the supervision of Sutter Instrument
Technical Support.
Figure 1-5. Upper cable pulley assembly.
Panels, Left
And Right
(K in Figure
1-5)
The panels are the angled surfaces that provide mountings for the Puller
Bars and their Bearings, the Spring Stops, the Bumpers, and the Upper
Cable Pulley Assemblies. Except for minor differences in shape, the left
and right Panels are mirror images of each other. Note the three socket-
head cap screws that attach each Panel to the base plate top. These screws
are used to align the Puller Bars. Their adjustment, if necessary, is covered
in the Maintenance Section. Contact Sutter Instrument Technical Support
for more instructions on how the panels are aligned.
Bumpers
(N in Figure
1-5)
The Bumper stops the motion of its associated Puller Bar. Each Bumper
also prevents impact forces from breaking pipettes.
Spring Stops
(P in Figure
1-5)
The Spring Stops are one-way catches that catch the Puller Bars as they
rebound off the Bumpers so as to prevent pipette tip collision.
Puller Bars
(G in Figure
1-5)
This assembly consists of the puller bar, threaded post, electrode clamp
knob, and cable retaining screw. The cable retaining screw (H) holds the
cable in a shallow groove (I) at the end of the puller bar, and forms the
‘resistance’ against which the cable ends pull. The puller bar is made of

8
mild steel and coated with a controlled thickness of hard chrome. Glass is
loaded into the groove near the tip of the puller bar and is held in position
by tightening down the clamping knob (R).
V- Bearings
(S in Figure
1-5)
These bearings are the guides for the Puller Bar motion. They are made of
stainless steel and must NEVER be oiled (see Maintenance Section). Note
that these bearings are mounted on stainless steel bushings, one of which
is round with the other two being hexagonal. The hexagonal (eccentric)
bushings are used to adjust position and ease of travel of the PULLER
BARS (see Maintenance Section). Do not adjust the eccentrics without
additional instruction.
Pull Cable
(T in Figure
1-5)
This cable transmits the pulling force of the solenoid to the Puller Bars via
the Upper (F) and Lower Pulley Assemblies. It is made of flexible metal
with a nylon coating. Never pinch or distort the cable. The cable is
terminated with crimped-on clamps or ‘swages’ at the back-end of each
Puller Bar.
Glass Stop
Mounting (U
in Figure 1-5)
Holes for mounting the glass stop. Either the left side or the right may be
used.
1.6 Cabinet
Baseplate The top think metal plate on which the mechanical assemblies are
mounted.
Base The Base includes the cabinet to which the top Baseplate is mounted as
well as the transformers and the circuit board contained within.
1.6.1 Electronics
The P-97 micropipette puller is controlled by a Z-80 microprocessor. Three digital-to-analog
(D-A) converters control the HEAT, PULL, and VELOCITY values. The HEAT power supply
is a precision constant current switching unit, which will vary less than 10 milliamperes with
a plus or minus 10% change in the AC line current. The PULL supply is a constant current
DC power supply. The velocity trip point is set by a D-A converter. The output of the velocity
transducer is compared to the output of the velocity D-A to determine when the trip velocity
is reached.
P-97 FLAMING/BROWN MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 2.43 - DOM (20161118)

9
2. INSTALLATION
2.1 Unpacking
Make certain that you have received all of the following items in the P-97 shipping box:
•P-97 micropipette puller*
•Power cord
•Sample box containing the following types of glass:
BF100-50-10 (Microinjection)
BF150-110-10 (Thin-Walled Patch (slice or whole tissue))
BF150-86-10 (Thick-Walled Patch (dissocated or cultured cells))
•One spare heating filament (FB255B)
•Warranty registration
•Sutter Instrument Product Catalog
•Pipette Cookbook
•Glass Stop
•BX-10 Pipette Storage Box
•Parameter Guide “cheat sheet” card
The Model P-97 micropipette puller is shipped to you in a custom box with foam inserts..
Please save shipping materials for future use. Should it ever be necessary to ship the puller
to another location, the same packaging should be used to prevent damage to the instrument.
Additional packing material may be purchased from Sutter Instrument 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 Setting Up
2.2.1 Line Power (Mains)
The power cord provided with the P-97 connects to the Power Entry Module located on the
back of the unit (see diagram below). This Module also includes the Line Fuse.
*Unless specified otherwise, the P-97 is shipped equipped with, and configured for, a 2.5mm box heating filament.
P-97 FLAMING/BROWN MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 2.43 - DOM (20161118)

P-97 FLAMING/BROWN MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 2.43 - DOM (20161118)
10
Figure 2-1. P-97 Cabinet (rear view), showing power entry module.
Make certain that the Power Switch located on the left end of the P-97 cabinet is turned OFF.
Figure 2-2. P-97 Cabinet (end view, left), showing power switch.
Plug the power cord provided with the P-97 into the Line Input socket on the Power Entry
Module and then to a power source of the appropriate voltage and frequency.
Figure 2-3. Power connection.