Performing a Background Calibration on the AriaMx

Answer

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

Issue

Steps to perform a background calibration on the AriaMx. 

Background

A background calibration is required when:

• New plasticware is used on the AriaMx
• There is a noticeable deviation in the baseline values (Figure 1)
• A new optical module is installed 

 


Figure 1. AriaMx raw data plots.
1. Typical fluorescence pattern from an optical module that requires calibration, 2. Expected fluorescence pattern from a calibrated optical module

Required Materials

• A 96-well plate and caps or film identical to the consumables used in the AriaMx
• 20 µL of water for each well

Steps to Follow

1. Fill each well of your 96-well plate with 20 µL of water.
2. Seal the plate and spin it down.
3. Place the sealed plate into the AriaMx instrument.
4. On the AriaMx touch screen, select to Settings>System Settings>Background Calibration (Figure 2).
5. After the calibration, verify its success by performing a scan of the same water plate (3 second plateau at 25 degrees for 20 cycles).

   Tip: You can download and run this water plate template: Water Plate_20 cycles.amxt.

6. Check the raw fluorescence values. The baseline signal within each channel should be more uniform now.
7. If necessary, repeat the background calibration.

Figure 2. AriaMx touch screen system settings.

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.

PR7001-2179