Molecular Devices · Model FLIPR Tetra
Flexible Platform for Cell-Based HTS The ability to configure instruments through varying stages of the drug discovery screening process is a challenge that requires instrument hardware flexibility and an easy-to-use software interface. Molecular Devices addresses these challenges with the FLIPRTETRA system for kinetic cell-based screening. Since its introduction, FLIPRTETRA has developed a reputation for reliability and ease-of-use. The system can be configured based on library size, detection mode, screening format, assay, and target, making the transition from assay development to lead optimization a seamless process. Increase Assay Flexibility Two camera options - standard for fluorescence only, or aequorin for both fluorescence and luminescence - allow the user to tailor the system to their needs. The aequorin camera can be adjusted to the appropriate signal window to detect signals from bright fluorescence or dim luminescence assays. User-exchangeable, proven LED banks and emission filters provide the flexibility to perform experiments using dyes that are most appropriate for selected assays, whether they are single wavelength or ratiometric. Rapidly Exchange Pipettors User-exchangeable pipettor heads - available in 96-, 384-, 1536-well formats, as well as pin tools in 384 and 1536 format - allow for the adjustment of screening rates based on throughput, material consumption, and assay requirements. The pipettor heads have a proven track record, with the 1536 pipettor utilizing the elastomeric positive displacement technology. Regardless of the format used, each pipettor can be exchanged by a system operator in minutes and can pipette reagents, compounds, or cells. Deliver Cells in Suspension Delivering cells in suspension is an important option that simplifies luminescence calcium mobilization assay protocols while increasing throughput. Spinner flasks maintain a uniform cell suspension to promote assay robustness. A variety of flask sizes are available to scale the volume for assay development or high throughput screening. FLIPR pipettor heads deliver cells in up to 1536 format from the user-installable, universal cell suspension reservoir, eliminating the need for cell plating. Cell handling can be optimized for different cell lines by adjusting the stir and pump speeds and pipetting parameters through ScreenWorks software. The cell suspension reservoir is autoclavable and user-defined protocols can include up to four wash solvents to automate system cleaning. Unique and Uniform Cell Dispensing The cell suspension module (left) and cell suspension reservoir (right) allow users to uniformly distribute cells into the read plate via FLIPRTETRA pipettor heads (96, 384, 1536). Continuous stirring keeps the cells in suspension, while flexible protocols and manual control of pump speed give room for assay optimization. Customize Protocols and Data Processing ScreenWorks is both flexible and user-friendly. During protocol set-up, only relevant options are displayed, based on the installed fluidics and optics hardware, making it easy to choose parameters that are right for each assay. Live and information-rich data in 96-, 384- or 1536-well plate format are displayed while testing. Specific wells can be grouped for analysis or data export purposes. Graphs and tables can be easily copied and pasted into documents, presentations or worksheets, and different reductions can be selected for group statistics, making results readily accessible. accelerate throughput The FLIPRTETRA system is just one example of the innovative, high-performance products from Molecular Devices that significantly enhance research productivity and effectiveness. Designed expressly to meet the needs of research professionals in drug discovery and other advanced research, FLIPRTETRA delivers the industry-leading capabilities required for accelerating our customers’ time-to-market for new products.
Failure patterns typical of this equipment class - general BMET reference, not verified against this exact unit's own service history unless flagged. Severity is a category-level estimate.
Symptoms: Vibration, loud noise, stop error.
Root cause: Worn bearing or unbalanced rotor.
Symptoms: Clogs, high blank, QC fail.
Root cause: Pump tube wear, air in line.
Symptoms: Incubator out of range.
Root cause: Failed heater/fan or sensor.
Symptoms: Low signal, wavelength drift.
Root cause: Lamp/LED or monochromator aging.
The parts a BMET typically services on this class of equipment. Service class and relative cost are general engineering estimates for the category, not figures from this unit's documentation. Part numbers appear only when pulled from this unit's own service manual. Always confirm intervals and pricing against the manufacturer.
Frequent R&R on high-throughput analyzers.
Consumable - replace proactively.
| Part | Service class | Relative cost | R&R difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Incubator heater / fan | Periodic replacement | $$ | Moderate |
| Sample aspiration probe Frequent R&R on high-throughput analyzers. | Periodic replacement | $$$ | Moderate |
| Peristaltic pump tubing Consumable - replace proactively. | Frequent wear item | $ | Easy |
| Xenon / LED light source | Periodic replacement | $$$ | Moderate |
Relative cost: $ lowest · $$$$ highest service-part cost for this equipment class. Not a price.
Preventive-maintenance tasks typical of this equipment class. Perform to the manufacturer's procedure and your facility's policy - this is general reference, not a schedule for this specific unit.
A structured starting point derived from the failure modes above. Follow the manufacturer's service documentation for the actual procedure.
Where this class of equipment is typically deployed - general reference, not this unit's own placement record.
Describe a symptom or error code. Bio answers from this device's own documented error codes, failure modes, parts, and guides.
Ask Bio →