Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can the same beads for the Bio-Plex® MAGPIX™ system be used for the Bio-Plex® 100/200 systems?
The Bio-Plex MAGPIX system uses only 6.5 µm MagPlex magnetic beads and utilizes only 50 regions of the 100 bead maps employed on the Bio-Plex 100/200 systems. The regions highlighted in yellow are compatible with the Bio-Plex MAGPIX reader.
2. What software version is compatible with the Bio-Plex MAGPIX system?
The Bio-Plex MAGPIX system uses xPONENT software version 4.2 to acquire data and Bio-Plex Manager™ software for data review and optimization. After acquiring data with xPONENT, results can be automatically opened with Bio-Plex Manager for data review and optimization. Bio-Plex Data Pro™ software can then be used to combine multiple runs, to perform data organization, and for visualization to help discern differences in data groups quickly.
3. Are the calibration and verification beads for the Bio-Plex 100/200 systems and the Bio-Plex MAGPIX system the same?
No, the Bio-Plex MAGPIX system uses different calibration and verification beads than the Bio-Plex 100/200 systems.
4. How often must I perform calibration with the Bio-Plex MAGPIX system?
It is recommended to perform calibration once a week and performance verification every day — you can choose both options when “System Initialization” is selected. The system should be initialized every time
- The system is moved
- The temperature changes by more than 5ºC
- Sample acquisition problems arise
5. Must I remeasure the probe height prior to each plate reading if the same type of plate is used?
No, once the probe height is adjusted for a particular plate type, the adjustment can be saved. If a new plate type is used, the instrument must be calibrated (use metal disk) to acquire its probe height. It is recommended to calibrate probe height whenever the probe is replaced for cleaning or when there are data acquisition problems.
6. What are the reasons for calibration or verification failure of MAGPIX instrument?
1. Calibration and verification beads were not fully suspended.
2. Wrong lot number or wrong target values were entered.
3. Calibration or verification beads were in the wrong well.
4. Fewer than 5 drops of calibration or verification beads were used.
5. Lots are expired.
6. The sample probe height is incorrect or it is clogged.
7. There is a clog in the probe or within the instrument.
8. The recommended drive fluid was not used.
9. The temperature and pressure are not within normal range.
10. There are error messages.
If all of the above are fine, perform the Clog Troubleshooting Procedure and attempt to recalibrate. If the system still fails, request to see the Control Trend Report for additional information. Verification failures can be due to carryover problems from a previous calibration. Performing four rinse cycles and two Clean commands using a 0.1 N sodium hydroxide solution.
7. How do I add new kit lots/values?
A CD containing all the relevant information is included in each kit. This CD is unique to each lot of the kit and is included with both the Calibration and Performance Kits.
8. Do I need to create a protocol before I create the batch?
You may create either the batch or the protocol first. In Batch setup, protocols and batches can be created simultaneously but can be saved separately to preserve experimental setup for later use.
9. What are the expected read times for a 96-well plate on the Bio-Plex MAGPIX system?
For a 96-well plate, the read time is approximately 50–60 min.
10. Can Bio-Plex assays be run on the Bio-Plex MAGPIX system?
Bio-Plex Pro assays that use MagPlex beads can be run on the Bio-Plex MAGPIX system; refer to the assay instruction manual for correct bead regions and bead type. Bio-Plex assays that use the Bio-Rad 8.0 µm magnetic beads or Luminex 5.6 µm polystyrene beads cannot be run on the MAGPIX system.
Bio-Plex Pro magnetic assays compatible with the Bio-Plex MAGPIX multiplex reader.
11. Is there a hardware protection key included with the Bio-Plex MAGPIX system?
You must enter an alpha-numeric code to activate xPONENT software. Bio-Plex Manager does require a hardware protection key.
12. Most of my samples are very dirty. Can I set up a more thorough maintenance routine to clean the system?
Yes, after running the plate, you can set up custom maintenance routines: go to the Maintenance tab, select the button for Cmds & Routines, enter the desired steps, and save the protocol. We recommend Rinse 3X, Alcohol flush 3X, and Wash 3X. This will then be available in the Cmds & Routines window.
13. How do I know that the sample probe is clogged?
The following problems are an indication that the sample probe may be clogged:
- MFI values are unusual
- Low bead count
- Failing Calibration/Verification
To rectify the problem:
- Remove probe and sonicate narrow end for 1–2 min
- Flush the probe from the narrow end to the thicker end with diH2O
- Replace the probe and run the Clog Removal routine
- Alcohol flush
- Wash
- Clean
- Wash
14. What are the guidelines for preventative maintenance?
Daily
- Check fluid levels — this can be seen by looking behind the front door where the fluid bottles are found. One bottle of Drive Fluid runs 8 full plates
- During period of use, run a Daily Startup, which is a Rinse command — this acts as a Prime and also uses drive fluid, and alcohol flush, followed by 2 rinses
- Sanitize the lines using 10%–20% household bleach
- Run a shutdown
Weekly
Replace the alcohol in the alcohol well of the off-plate reagent block with a 0.1 N sodium hydroxide solution. Perform a Clog Removal routine:
- Remove and clean the sample probe
- Perform visual inspection — look for any leaks or precipitated drive fluid
- Calibrate and verify
Six Months
- Clean air filters
- Replace the syringe seal on the syringe pump
Twelve Months
- Replace the sample probe tube
- Replace the sheath filter
15. Can I set up the system to automatically export data to Bio-Plex Manager software for analysis?
Yes, the system can be set up to automatically create a Bio-Plex Manager RBX file and then automatically open the data in Bio-Plex Manager software for ease of analysis.
16. Since the Bio-Plex MAGPIX system has one setting, can I run Bio-Plex assays developed on a high PMT setting?
Yes, Bio-Plex Pro assays developed on a high PMT setting can be run on the Bio-Plex MAGPIX system. During the course of an experimental study, only one instrument platform should be used (either the Bio-Plex MAGPIX or Bio-Plex 100/200 systems).
