srMPD/DB-384: Specifications (July 1999)

General description: The Spatially Resolving MultiPhoton Detector for dot blot patterns (srMPD/DB-384) is an ultra-low background gamma counter for low-activity ¹²⁵I gamma sources. Measurements are performed simultaneously in two modes: standard (faster), and enhanced (slower, but more sensitive).

Components: srMPD/DB-384 includes a multi-element detector unit with 2- dimensional sample changer for a rectangular 110 × 75 mm flat sample, working in an automatic regime, a dedicated computer with mouse and keyboard, and a 17" color monitor.

Sample Size: The srMPD/DB-384 accepts a rectangular 110 × 75 mm dot blot membrane of 384 dots arrayed according to the standard 384-well microtitration plate format.

Sensitivity: 2 pCi (1 attomole of ¹²⁵I) in standard mode, and 0.1 pCi (0.05 attomole of ¹²⁵I) in enhanced mode *.

Dynamic Range: From 0.1 pCi up to at least 30 nCi: close to 6 orders of magnitude.

Linearity: Better than 5% across the full dynamic range.

Throughput: 64 samples are measured at the same time at one position of 2-dimensional sample changer

Software: MPS 1.0 software running under Windows 3.1

Power Requirements: 110 V, 60 Hz, grounded outlet. Power consumption 300 W. A surge protector is recommended.

Environmental Requirements: Temperature: 15 to 40°C. Humidity: 10 to 95% non-condensing.

Weight: Detector/changer unit: 40 kg. Computer: 10 kg.

Dimensions: Detector/changer unit: 22" x 20" x 21". Computer unit: 19" x 18" x 7".

Price: $ 50,000 including a one-year warranty and service and two years of free software upgrade.

* Using BioTraces Inc. proprietary SuperTracers the sensitivity of about 20 molecules can be achieved