Lab equipment: choosing the Right Microplate Reader

Last updated on June 23rd, 2022 at 04:25 am

Microplate readers are used in many kinds of laboratories today. They play a part in basic research and bioassay validation, but also for new drug discoveries and biopharmaceutical manufacturing. Today, with a multi-mode microplate reader, scientists have access to a wider range of detection modes in one piece of equipment. Here are some of the considerations needed before choosing the right microplate reader for your team.

A multipurpose Instrument

There is no doubt that choosing the right microplate reader can be quite a challenge. That is because of the large number of reagents, kits, and accessories, that each of them offers. The goal, however, should be clear to any laboratory: Making sure that the microplate reader possesses the necessary features that will precisely serve current and future needs.

Laboratories choosing a multi-mode microplate reader, like the ones produced by BMG Labtech, no matter which field they are working in, cannot go wrong. That is because it provides to them the opportunity to configure their microplate reader with the precise features that they need. Also, it is important to note that by configuring their reader, they can also adapt it to their budget. That is something which can be very important for some laboratories. With that in mind, let’s now look at the various factors that should be entertained when choosing your microplate reader.

FLEXIBILITY

If your laboratory is experimenting on many projects at the same time, flexibility becomes a primary issue for you and your team. You need to determine if you will be working on simple quantitation assays or if there are plans for experiments with multiple type requirements. If flexibility is a key element for you, you will definitely choose a multi-mode microplate reader.

EFFICIENCY

Laboratories that need to handle a high volume of biochemical or pharmaceutical tests, need to put emphasis on speed. However, that factor should not come at the cost of a loss insensitivity. Evaluating your throughput requirements can help you decide on the piece of equipment you should acquire. It should direct you towards a monochromator, a hybrid, or laser detector, according to your needs.

EASE OF USE

Today’s microplate readers that are easy-to-use contain more automation. That usually translates into various wavelength selections, optimization, built-in protocols, and integrated software. The most sophisticated instruments on the market will enable all user levels to work with the machine, according to their competence. That way, a more advanced employee can use it for more complex workflows, instead of automated ones.

Advantages of a Multi-mode Microplate Reader

Most laboratories, when they upgrade their material, choose to go with a multi-mode microplate reader. Although the cost may be higher, it lets them run a much larger variety of assays. Suppliers have also understood the need to adapt to their client’s budget. That is why, today, you can buy a multi-mode microplate reader, fully customized to the needs of the team in your laboratory and the goals of your company. Not only does this make the piece of equipment more efficient, but it also reduces the cost, by removing unnecessary detection modes, that you would not be using, even if the product came with them. The reader usually comes with standard detection modes, which measure absorbance, fluorescence, and luminescence.

It is clear that the advance in technology has greatly improved microplate readers in the last few years. Thanks to additional functions and other enhancements, it has provided increased speed in test results, which has turned into a higher level of productivity. Automation as also made them easier to use, providing a better workflow. And with a multi-mode microplate reader, it has become much easier to upgrade the equipment, when new needs arise. This makes it all easier for you to find and choose the right reader for your laboratory.