multiwell fluorimeter -how do you choose? - (Nov/15/2006 )

I was given the task to find a new multiwell fluorimeter for the lab (the old one is a piece of junk, and no matter how many times we send it back to be fixed, it always comes back with the same problem).
I have no idea how one choses a reader -I might as well be shopping for particle-accelerators...

The specifications we need would be:

Monochrometer based system (not filter-based)
96 and 384-well formats
Temperature control
Price (as low as possible)

would be nice:
injector capability
Absorbance, luminescence


I found a few, but how can you compare these? What do you look out for? (I'm not sure if specific brands can be mentioned here or not.)
Thank you for the help...

I was given the task to find a new multiwell fluorimeter for the lab (the old one is a piece of junk, and no matter how many times we send it back to be fixed, it always comes back with the same problem).
I have no idea how one choses a reader -I might as well be shopping for particle-accelerators...

The specifications we need would be:

Monochrometer based system (not filter-based)
96 and 384-well formats
Temperature control
Price (as low as possible)

would be nice:
injector capability
Absorbance, luminescence


I found a few, but how can you compare these? What do you look out for? (I'm not sure if specific brands can be mentioned here or not.)
Thank you for the help...

Looks to me as though you have established your criteria already. Other things you may consider, though:

Cost: new and then annual maintenance. Does the deal on offer have facility for software upgrades? Does the company provide after-care? Would it be worth buying a reconditioned unit?

Staff; what training will users require? What maintenance will you do in-house and will the company provide initial training.

The specifications you identified: what capacity does each instrument have for development? i.e what is state of the art today is tomorrow's junk. On the other hand, it may be worth buying a better more expensive model than you really need just now if your lab is likely to expand use in the next few years.
Would it be better to buy outright or rent from the company?

As for the specs: what space do you have available? No point buying the biggest machine if you can't accomodate it. That includes getting it into the lab..up starirs..or lifts etc.

What range of wavelength do you need now and can you anticipate this changing in the next 5 years or so?
What bandwidth precision do you require? Which of the instruments on offer meet those needs. How compatible is the instrument with other lab equipmentyou have: 96-well wash robots etc. Or does the instrument have full wash and read facility. What optical system provides the precision you need?

Do you have to use the company's reagents, bottles, plates etc. Is the company in good health (wouldn't want to buy into an after care deal only for the company to go bust).

Most lab finance offices will want you to produce a business case and look at 3 alternatives. Don't let them tell YOU to go for the cheapest if it plainly isn't up to YOUR requirements.

Need any more help, give us a line. As for particle accelerators...

Cheers.