Scratches on AriaMx Optical Modules

Answer

This Information Applies To: Agilent AriaMx real-time PCR system

Issue

Scratches on AriaMx optical modules can lead to a reduction in their performance.

Background

Scratches on an AriaMx optical module are shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1. Optical module with horizontal scratches

Scratches on the AriaMx optical modules can have several effects, including:

• Reduced optical clarity: scratches can obstruct the path of light, affecting the quality of imaging and data acquisition.
• Decreased signal intensity: scratches can scatter or absorb light, leading to a reduction in signal intensity.
• Image distortion: depending on the location and severity of the scratches, they can cause distortion or artifacts in the images captured by the optical modules.
• Negative impact on quantification: scratches may interfere with the accurate quantification of samples, potentially leading to erroneous results.
• Compromised data quality: the presence of scratches can introduce noise or artifacts into the data, making it more challenging to obtain accurate and reliable results.
• Increased background signal: scratches may contribute to an elevated background signal, which can make it harder to distinguish true signals from noise.
• Long-term degradation: over time, repeated use of scratched optical modules can exacerbate the effects and potentially lead to further degradation of performance.

Given these potential consequences, it is crucial to handle and clean optical modules with care to minimize the risk of scratches. If scratches do occur, it may be necessary to address them through maintenance or, in severe cases, replacement of the affected optical module.

Resolution

1. When handling optical modules, be careful to place them always on their side. Never allow the glass optical window at the bottom to touch the lab bench or other hard surface.
2. Take care when cleaning AriaMx optical modules as improper cleaning can result in scratches. Avoid touching the optical window of the module.

   Learn how to effectively clean your Agilent AriaMx optical module: Cleaning AriaMx Cartridges.

3. Using nonrecommended plasticware can lead to improper hot top closure. Forcefully closing it may cause contact with optical modules during scanning, resulting in horizontal scratches on the optical module. Avoid the use of not Agilent recommended plasticware. Table 1 details the plasticware that has been validated for use with the AriaMx.                                                                                                                             
                              

   Agilent Part Number	Description
   401490	96-well plate, fully skirted, low profile
   401491	96-well plate, rigid, fully skirted, low profile
   401494	96-well plate, nonskirted, low profile
   401493	8x strip tubes, without caps, low profile, 120 strips (10 packs of 12 strips)
   401425	8x strip tube optical caps, 120 strips (10 packs of 12 strips)
   401427	8x strip tube optical caps, 60 strips (five packs of 12 strips)
   401492	Adhesive seal for 96-well plates, 50-pack When sealing plates with adhesive seals, Agilent recommends using MicroAmp Optical Film Compression Pads (Thermo Scientific, part number 4312639).

   Table 1. qPCR plasticware validated for use in the AriaMx instrument
   
   

Learn how to effectively operate your Agilent AriaMx: AriaMx Real-Time PCR System Setup and User Guide on Agilent.com Aria Real-Time PCR Software User Manual on Agilent.com

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

PR7001-1615