Microplate Readers and Reader Accessories
Microplate readers are a type of spectrophotometer designed specifically for analyzing multiple samples in multi-well plates.
The readers detect light signals that result from biological, chemical, biochemical, or physical reactions. The signals are produced by, converted by, or transmitted through the samples and are measured by a detector. The detectors are usually photomultiplier tubes (PMT), which convert the released photons into electricity. The current is quantified by the reader’s software to produce the numerical result.
In some cases, samples are first excited by exposure to light of specific wavelengths. Filters or monochromators are used to select or restrict the wavelengths needed for emission or detection.
Single-mode microplate readers commonly measure absorbance, fluorescence, or luminescence. Multi-mode plate readers may measure absorbance, fluorescence, and luminescence with options for fluorescence polarization (FP). They may also include lasers for time-resolved fluorescence (TRF), TR-FRET, Amplified Luminescent Proximity Homogeneous Assays (ALPHA), and cell imaging.
Features may include:
- Monochromator- or filter-based wavelength selection
- Visible only or UV/Vis spectrum, fluorescence, and luminescence
- Multiple photomultiplier tubes (PMTs) for simultaneous assays
- Temperature and CO2/O2controls
- Modular design for adding functionality
Microplate readers are used for high-throughput screening (HTS), biomarker assays, nucleic acid and protein quantification, kinetics, ELISA assays, homogeneous time resolved fluorescence (HTRF) for measuring cytokines, bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET), and other techniques.
Molecular Devices Multi-Mode Microplate Reader, Five-Mode, Dual Injectors, 6-384-Well
The SpectraMax iD5 multi-mode microplate reader with dual injectors provides flexible detection for absorbance, fluorescence, luminescence, and time-resolved assays, and enables injector-based kinetic workflows for rapid reagent delivery across plate formats.
- Five detection modes: absorbance, fluorescence, luminescence, time-resolved fluorescence, fluorescence polarization.
- Dual injectors with low dead volume and overflow protection for kinetic assays.
- Supports plate formats from 6 to 384 wells with well scanning up to 20 x 20.
- Absorbance range 230-1000 nm; fluorescence excitation 250-830 nm, emission 270-850 nm.
- Temperature control to 66 °C and linear, orbital, and double-orbital shaking.
- Compatible with data acquisition software and robotic integration for automated workflows.
