Preparing and loading samples

Preparing and loading samples
Topic LCI-USG-0187, Last Updated 11/08/2024

The sample manager holds three ANSI/SBS-standard plates or trays that are loaded through the sample compartment door. Specific ANSI standard well plates, vial trays, vials, and cap mats or sealing caps are approved and required for use with the system. Incorrect loading of the plates or trays can result in an error.

Warning: To avoid personal contamination with biologically hazardous or toxic compounds, wear clean, chemical-resistant, powder-free gloves when performing this procedure.
Warning: To avoid eye injury, use eye protection when performing this procedure.

Required tools and materials

  • Chemical-resistant, powder-free gloves
  • Protective eyewear

To prepare and load samples:

  1. Prepare the samples as specified for the method.
  2. Fill the sample plates or trays as specified for the method. Waters vials are preferred.
    See Observing vial and plate recommendations.
    Tip: Vial positions V1 through V12, located on the right-hand and left-hand sides of the sample tray, accommodate 4-mL vials. Contact Waters for inserts that allow you to use 2-mL vials in these positions.
  3. Open the sample manager compartment door to access the platter as shown in the figure.
    Figure 1: Sample manager platter
  4. Press the plate/tray selector switch in the lower-left corner of the sample manager as needed to select position 1, 2, or 3.
    Exception: If you press the selector switch while a diagnostic function is running, the sample manager is priming, or the sample needle is accessing the sample tray, making an injection, or being cleaned, the sample manager compartment light blinks continuously and the plate position does not change. The switch operates again after the sample manager completes the task in progress.
  5. Pull out the frame for the selected position by grasping its handle.
  6. Load the plate or tray onto the extended frame. The tray should sit flat.
    Tip: For trays, “A” represents the row and “1” represents the vial position.
    Figure 2: Trays loaded on the sample platter
    Figure 3: Sample plate vial positions
  7. Slide the plate or tray backward until it clicks into place.
    Note: To avoid damaging the sample needle, the sample plates must be positioned correctly, and the sample tray must be fully engaged.
  8. Repeat the previous steps for each plate or tray.
  9. Close the sample compartment door.

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To avoid risk of personal injury and to prevent damage to laboratory equipment, always operate your Waters products in accordance with the applicable operational and safety information, your organization’s standard operating procedures, and local regulations.

Refer to the English version of this page for the latest information.

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