Changing the pipette head

About this topic

This topic describes how to change the pipette head using the Change Head wizard in Vertical Pipetting Station Diagnostics. The wizard positions the pipette head for easy access and provides prompts that step you through the procedure.

Before you begin

IMPORTANT If a pipette head is being used for the first time, make sure you have a profile specifically for the pipette head.

IMPORTANT If you have an older model Vertical Pipetting Station, verify that the device can accept a serial-dilution pipette head before attempting to install this type of pipette head.

Verify the following:

•	(Disposable-tip pipette heads only) The currently mounted head contains no tips. To remove any tips, see Running a process using Diagnostics software.

•	All shelves are moved to the out position and clear of the pipette head. You can use the Shelf buttons on the IO tab to move a shelf. See Using actuator controls and indicators.

Changing a pipette head

To change the pipette head using the Change Head wizard:

1	In Vertical Pipetting Station Diagnostics, click the Profiles tab.

2	On the Profiles page, click Change head.

Note: The Change head button is available only after initializing the current profile.

 

3	In the Change Head Wizard:

a	Select the pipette head from the Select the head type list.

b	In the Select the profile for this head type list, select the profile name.

c	Click Next.

 

 

WARNING  Keep clear of the Vertical Pipetting Station while it is in motion. Never touch any of the moving parts or attempt to move labware while the Vertical Pipetting Station is in operation. The device could pinch, pierce, or bruise you.

The pipette head moves down into position. The Change Head Wizard displays an overview of the procedure for changing the pipette head. For the detailed procedure, proceed to step 4 through step 11.

4	To turn off the Vertical Pipetting Station, press the power switch on the rear panel to the off (o) position.

 

 

CAUTION Always turn off the Vertical Pipetting Station before removing a pipette head. Failure to turn off the Vertical Pipetting Station before changing the pipette head can damage the pipette head electronics.

5	To unlock the mounted pipette head, do one of the following:

•	8‑ and 16‑channel heads. On the front of the pipette head, rotate the head lock (not shown) counterclockwise to the Unlock position.

•	96‑ and 384‑channel heads. Pull out and twist the two head-retainer pins one-quarter turn so that they remain retracted.

 

6	Grasp the pipette head firmly using care not to touch the tips or barrels. While supporting the head with your hands, use your thumbs to push the head from side to side and slide it out of the Vertical Pipetting Station head mount.

 

CAUTION Support the pipette head carefully without touching the barrels or tips. Dropping the head or bumping the tips or barrels will damage the head.

7	Carefully slide the pipette head into the head stand to protect the barrels and tips for storage.

 

8	Slide the pipette head onto the Vertical Pipetting Station head mount. Press the pipette head firmly into place to ensure the head is plugged into the connector receptacle on the head mount.

 

9	To lock the pipette head in place, do one of the following:

•	98‑ and 384‑channel heads. Twist the two head-retainer pins so that they snap into place.

•	8‑ and 16‑channel heads. On the front of the pipette head, rotate the head lock (not shown) counterclockwise to the Lock position.

10	To verify that the pipette head is secure, firmly support the head with your hands while you attempt to move the head from side to side as if to remove it. If the head is locked, it will not disengage from the dovetail interface.

 

CAUTION Do no touch the pipette head barrels or tips with your hands.

 

CAUTION If the pipette head is not properly secured in place, it could drop unexpectedly. Dropping the pipette head or bumping the tips or barrels will damage the head. Contact Automation Solutions Technical Support if you suspect that the pipette head has been damaged.

11	To turn on the power, press the power switch on the rear panel to the on (–) position.

 

WARNING During initialization the pipette head can move. Keep fingers, hair, clothing, and jewelry away from the Vertical Pipetting Station while it is in motion. Never touch any of the moving parts or attempt to move labware while the Vertical Pipetting Station is in operation. The device could pinch, pierce, or bruise you.

12	In the Change Head Wizard, click Next to initialize the installed pipette head.

When the Vertical Pipetting Station initialization was successful page appears, click Finish to complete the process.

 

Related topics

 

For information about...	See...
Safety guidelines	Safety guidelines
Opening Vertical Pipetting Station Diagnostics	Opening Vertical Pipetting Station Diagnostics
Creating a profile	Creating Vertical Pipetting Station profiles
Pipette heads	Pipette heads
Moving the pipette head	• Moving the pipette head manually • Jogging the pipette head • Using the Approach and Move commands