Cleaning AriaMx Optical Modules

Answer

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

Issue

When encountering issues related to a specific optical channel, the optical module should be inspected and cleaned. Usually, the root cause of this issue is dirt, lint, fingerprint on underside of optical module.

Steps to Follow

The optical modules can be cleaned with the AriaMx either switched on or off.

 AriaMx Switched Off

1. Verify that the AriaMx is switched off.
2. Open the door.
3. Slowly slide the optical module housing carrier to the middle.
4. Open the lid on the optical module housing carrier.
5. Repeat the following procedure for all optical modules if necessary:
   1. Lift the hinged tab on the top of the optical module, then use the tab to lift the optical module out of its slot.
   2. Be careful not to touch the underside of the optical module with the optical window.
   3. Verify that the clear plastic tape that protects the window has been removed.
   4. Use a can of compressed air to remove the dust from the bottom surface of the optical module (the surface opposite of the label). Hold the can 3–4 inches away from the surface as you press the trigger and hold the can upright.
   5. (Optional) Wipe the bottom surface with a lens cloth or lens tissue moistened with reagent-grade isopropyl alcohol.
   6. Inspect the optical window for residues.
   7. Re-insert module into the optical module housing carrier.
6. Close the optical module housing carrier lid.
7. Close the AriaMx door.
8. Switch on the AriaMx instrument.
9. After cleaning the module lens, perform a background calibration. How to perform a background calibration is described in the Agilent Knowledge Portal article Performing a Background Calibration on the AriaMx.

AriaMx Switched On

1. From the Home screen, select Settings > System Settings > Optical Module Settings.
2. Click Change Optical Module to move the optical module housing carrier to the middle of the instrument.
3. Open the AriaMx door.
4. Open the optical module housing carrier.
5. Repeat for all optical modules if necessary:
   1. Lift the hinged tab on the top of the optical module, then use the tab to lift the optical module out of its slot.
   2. Be careful not to touch the underside of the optical module with the optical window.
   3. Verify that the clear plastic tape that protects the window has been removed.
   4. Use a can of compressed air to remove the dust from the bottom surface of the optical module (the surface opposite of the label). Hold the can 3–4 inches away from the surface as you press the trigger and hold the can upright.
   5. (Optional) Wipe the bottom surface with a lens cloth or lens tissue moistened with reagent-grade isopropyl alcohol.
   6. Inspect the optical window for residues.
   7. Re-insert module into the optical module housing carrier.
6. Close the optical module housing carrier lid.
7. Close the AriaMx door.
8. After cleaning the modules, perform a background calibration. How to perform a background calibration is described in the Agilent Knowledge Portal article Performing a Background Calibration on the AriaMx.

Caution: When cleaning the optical modules, always use lens tissue or other soft tissue that will not scratch the optical module window. Fingerprints or scratches on the glass window may impact its functionality. Avoid touching the glass window. Do not put the optical module down with the glass window in contact with the laboratory bench or other surface. If you do place them down, always lay them on their side.

Learn how to effectively operate your Agilent AriaMx real-time PCR system: 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.

PR7001-2700