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How do I load my samples onto the ScreenTape?

You don’t need to. Once the samples, tips and ScreenTape have been placed in the TapeStation, the instrument will load, separate and image your samples. The data is immediately presented on the computer screen, and digitally archived.

What is the shelf life of the tape?

The shelf life of all ScreenTape is 4 months at 4°C. Lab901 are continually looking to improve shelf life so please always check the product label.

Can I run an out-of-date ScreenTape?

It is not recommended to use ScreenTape that has expired as published performance values will no longer be guaranteed. However, if you choose to run a piece of expired ScreenTape, the results file will be clearly annotated to show the date of expiration and usage.

How many samples can I run on ScreenTape at any one time?

ScreenTape consists of 16 separate gel lanes that can be run independently of each other, giving the user the option to run between 1 and 16 samples on a single tape.

Can the TapeStation accommodate a 96 well plate?

A 96 well plate of samples can be used to run more than 16 samples using a sample queuing system. Abgene’s 96 well skirted PCR plate, catalogue reference ST221 are available from Lab 901. Please refer to Lab 901 TapeStation user manual or contact technical assistance. Due to the nature of sample loading by the TapeStation instrument, care must be taken to arrange the samples in a suitable order. Please check www.lab901.com

Can I re-use the tape?

Unused lanes on a piece of ScreenTape can be used in later experiments. Once the foil bag has been opened, the ScreenTape must be stored at 4°C and used within 2 weeks.

How do I know which ScreenTape lanes have already been used?

When a used ScreenTape is inserted into the TapeStation, providing that the same Lab901 laptop is controlling the instrument, the barcode is recognised and any used lanes appear greyed-out and unavailable for use.

Will I lose information during a power cut?

During a loss of power, the TapeStation will stop and an error message will appear on the screen (the laptop will be running from battery power). Any lanes that have been pierced cannot be used again. Any lanes that have been imaged and presented in GeneTools are saved – when the analysis software launches, it automatically saves the file. When power is restored, follow the instructions on screen.

Can I assign more than one ladder in the analysis software?

Currently the GeneTools software allows only one ladder to be assigned per tape.

Does the TapeStation require any maintenance?

No specialised maintenance is required. However, Lab901 can provide maintenance support contracts. The needle used to pierce the ScreenTape must be changed after every 4480 tests. Lab901 also recommends that the fan filters are replaced annually. Detailed instructions for both procedures can be found in the User Manual.

How do I know if a TapeStation Instrument is running a ScreenTape?

When the TapeStation is running, it displays a blinking blue light on the front cover. When the TapeStation in idle it displays a continual blue light.

What happens if the TapeStation lid is lifted during a ScreenTape run?

The TapeStation will instantly stop and an error message will appear on the screen. Any lanes that have been pierced cannot be used again. Any lanes that have been imaged and presented in GeneTools are saved – when the analysis software launches, it automatically saves the file. The software will ask you if you would like to re-initialise the instrument to prepare for another experiment or shut down the controller software.

A band in one of the lanes did not run as far as one of similar expected molecular weight in an adjacent lane. What could be the cause for this?

There are several reasons why a short run can occur,. Please refer to the user manual, or contact Lab901 for technical assistance.

Is the Lab901 ScreenTape GeneTools software GLP/GMP compliant?

Yes. A GLP standard report can be generated and sent straight to the printer or to PDF. In addition, reports which require further editing can be exported to Microsoft Word and Excel.

Can I review my ScreenTape results on another computer?

GeneTools software is supplied by Lab901 under license. The software can be installed on as many computers as required, but only one security USB key is supplied. Additional licenses can be purchased from Lab901 Ltd.

Is it possible to compare results from different ScreenTape runs?

Yes. Electropherogram profiles can be compared between any two samples. Please see of the Lab901 TapeStation User manual.

How long does it take to get my sample data?

Once the analysis is complete, the gel images are immediately transferred into the GeneTools software for integration and analysis.

How do I find my Microsoft product key for the laptop?

Lab901 provide a brand new laptop straight from the supplier. Please follow the manufacturer’s instructions included within the packaging. In addition, please note that anti-virus software and the Lab901 controller must also be downloaded to prepare the laptop for use with the ScreenTape system.

Can I use OpenOffice instead of MS Office?

Unfortunately, OpenOffice can create issues when exporting documents from Lab901 associated software.

What is the smallest amount of prepared sample needed in the tube/well?

3µL – placed at the very bottom of the tube/well. Bubbles must be avoided.