OT-2 is an automated operation platform widely used in laboratories. Its full name is OpenTrons 2. As an automated liquid handling device, the OT-2 greatly improves experimental efficiency and accuracy, and is especially suitable for fields such as molecular biology, drug development, and clinical research. The following article will introduce in detail the equipment composition and usage instructions of OT-2:

1. Core components of OT-2 equipment:

1. Host: The host of OT-2 is the core part of the equipment, with built-in control system and various interfaces. The host realizes all-round control of the equipment through advanced computer systems and operating software. It has a compact design, takes up little laboratory space, and has good ventilation and heat dissipation performance.

2. Robotic arm: OT-2 is equipped with a precise robotic arm for moving and operating reagents and samples on the experimental platform. The robotic arm is driven by a high-precision stepper motor, enabling precise control of movement and position. It has a wide operating range, can cover the entire work surface, and has a multi-degree-of-freedom rotation function with strong flexibility.

3. Liquid handling module: Liquid handling is one of the core functions of OT-2, and the equipment is equipped with a set of advanced liquid handling modules. Modules include multi-channel pipettes, disposable tips and waste management systems. Multi-channel pipettes can process multiple samples at the same time to improve work efficiency; disposable tips avoid cross-contamination between samples; and the waste disposal system ensures experimental safety and environmental protection.

4. Experimental platform: The experimental platform is the working area of ??OT-2. It is made of corrosion-resistant materials and can accommodate test tube racks, microplates and reaction vessels of various specifications. There are also multiple positioning points on the platform to facilitate users to place experimental instruments quickly and accurately.

5. Software system: The software system supporting OT-2 is the center of equipment operation. Users can set the experimental process, parameters and operating steps through the software. The software has a friendly interface, supports drag-and-drop operation, and is compatible with a variety of experimental protocols. Through the remote control function, users can also monitor and adjust the experimental process in real time.

2. Instructions for use of OT-2

When using the OT-2, users should follow the following steps and precautions to ensure normal operation of the device and successful experiments.

1. Preparation: Before using OT-2, users should install the equipment first and ensure that the equipment is in good working condition. Check whether the power connection and network connection are normal, and prepare consumables and reagents on the experimental platform.

2. Equipment calibration: Before starting the experiment, the user needs to calibrate the equipment. This includes calibration of the robotic arm and calibration of the liquid handling module. The calibration process requires users to operate according to software prompts to ensure the precision and accuracy of the device.

3. Experimental settings: Users set up the experimental process through the software system. First, you need to import or create an experimental protocol, including pipetting steps, mixing steps, temperature control, etc. Then, set various experimental parameters, such as liquid volume, pipetting speed, and stirring time. Finally, users need to correctly place reagents and samples on the experimental platform.

4. Run the experiment: After the settings are completed, the user can start the experiment. OT-2 will automatically complete sample processing according to the set process. During the experiment, users can monitor the progress of the experiment in real time through the software, such as changes in liquid volume and the position of the robotic arm.

5. End of experiment and cleanup: After the experiment, users need to turn off the equipment and clean it. Cleaning includes replacing waste bags, cleaning robotic arms and pipettes, etc. Routine maintenance of equipment is also very important. Regular inspection and maintenance of equipment can extend its service life.

3. Conclusion

As an efficient automated liquid handling equipment, OT-2 has broad application prospects in laboratories. Through the introduction of this article, I believe readers will have a deeper understanding of the equipment composition and usage of OT-2. In future experiments, OT-2 will continue to provide reliable support to scientific researchers and promote the progress of scientific research.