bravo user guide - velocity11.com

Bravo User Guide

March 2006

VWorks4 version 1.x

16968.00.00.00_BravoUG_Mar06

Copyright 2006 Velocity11

The information provided in this guide is intended to be accurate and reliable. However, Velocity11 does not assume responsibility for its use or for any infringements upon the rights of third parties that may result from its use.

The transfer of this guide, in any manner or form, to a representative of another company is strictly forbidden.

BenchCel, Velocity11, and VPrep are registered trademarks of Velocity11.

Bravo and VWorks are trademarks of Velocity11.

Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of the Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries.

All other trademarks are the sole property of their respective owners.

Velocity113565 Haven AvenueMenlo Park CA 94025USA

Phone: 650-846-6600Fax: 650-846-6620Service: 1-800-979-4811Sales: 1-866-428-9811Email: [email protected]://www.velocity11.com

Table of ContentsBravo User Guide

i

ANCH

Chapter 1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1Who should read this guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2About Velocity11 user guides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3What this guide covers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5Finding your version numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Reporting Bravo problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Sending a bug report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Moving or sending registry files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Safety information about the Bravo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Chapter 2. Bravo orientation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15About the Bravo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Hardware overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Indicator lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21The Bravo pipette heads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Connection panel description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24Software overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Overview of the VWorks user interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Chapter 3. Installing the Bravo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37Laboratory set up requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38Electrical and environmental requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39Workflow for installing the Bravo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Unpacking and inspecting the Bravo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Connecting the Bravo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47Choosing between a serial and an Ethernet network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48About Ethernet networking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49Workflow for Ethernet networking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52Changing the Bravo’s IP address to be assigned dynamically . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53Setting the network card’s IP address. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55Connecting Ethernet cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58Checking the Ethernet card’s IP address. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59Installing and starting DHCP server software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60Turning off Ethernet firewall software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Contents


ii

Chapter 4. Setting up the Bravo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65Workflow for setting up the Bravo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66Mounting the pipette head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67Turning on the Bravo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71Starting VWorks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72Logging in and changing your password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73Adding and managing user accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74Setting up email error notification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77Setting log file options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78Creating a device file . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79About profiles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80Creating a profile for the Bravo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81Editing teachpoints. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Chapter 5. Preparing for a run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89Workflow for preparing for a run. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90About tasks, processes, and protocols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91Opening a protocol in VWorks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92Understanding the protocol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93Preparing the Bravo for a run. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Chapter 6. Performing a run. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95Workflow for performing a run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96Starting a run from VWorks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96Pausing or stopping a run using VWorks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98Stopping the pipette head using the pendant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100Monitoring a run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101Working with the Log toolbars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102Cleaning up after a run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104Logging out of VWorks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105Shutting down the Bravo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Chapter 7. Creating protocols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107About protocol files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108An Example protocol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109Workflow for creating a protocol. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110Creating a new protocol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111Setting protocol options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111Adding and deleting tasks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113Compiling and saving protocols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114Simulating a run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115List of Bravo task parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116Setting Configure Labware (Built In) task parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118Setting Aspirate (Bravo) task parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119


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Setting Dispense (Bravo) task parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121Setting Loop task parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123Setting Mix (Bravo) task parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124Setting Move To Location (Bravo) task parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126Setting Pump Reagent (Bravo) task parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127Setting Serial Dilution (Bravo) task parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128Setting Set Head Mode (Bravo) task parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136Setting Sub Process (Bravo) task parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137Setting Tips On (Bravo) task parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138Setting Tips Off (Bravo) task parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139Setting User Message task parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140Setting Wait For User (Bravo) task parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141Setting Wash Tips (Bravo) task parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143Setting Device Selection in task parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146

Chapter 8. Setting labware definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147About defining labware with the labware editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148Labware editor overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149Workflow for creating a new labware definition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151Opening the labware editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152Adding a labware entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153Deleting a labware entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155Renaming a labware entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155Copying a labware entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156Defining labware-entry general properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157Defining plate and well properties for Bravo labware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158Inserting an image . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161Defining labware classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162

Chapter 9. Setting liquid-handling definitions . . . . . . . . . . . 167About the liquid library editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168Opening the liquid library editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170Creating a liquid class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171Performing an accuracy calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173

Chapter 10. Using Bravo Diagnostics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177About diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178Opening Bravo Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179About the Jog/Teach page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180Homing the pipette head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183Moving the pipette head manually . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184Jogging the pipette head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185Changing the pipette head speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186Using the Move and Approach commands. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187


iv

Configuring an I/O accessory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188Performing commands using Bravo Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190Managing profiles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192

Chapter 11. Maintenance and troubleshooting . . . . . . . . 193Routine maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194Cleaning the Bravo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194Removing pipette heads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195Retracting tip-box stripper pins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199Recovering from a head collision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200

Chapter 12. Installing VWorks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203Workflow for installing VWorks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204Computer requirements and networking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204Installing VWorks software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205Uninstalling VWorks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206

Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207

1Chapter 1: IntroductionBravo User Guide

Introduction
1 This chapter introduces the Bravo User Guide.
Before operating the Bravo, become familiar with the operating procedures in this guide.

This chapter contains the following topics:

❑ “Who should read this guide” on page 2

❑ “About Velocity11 user guides” on page 3

❑ “What this guide covers” on page 5

❑ “Finding your version numbers” on page 6

❑ “Reporting Bravo problems” on page 7

❑ “Sending a bug report” on page 8

❑ “Moving or sending registry files” on page 9

❑ “Safety information about the Bravo” on page 11

Chapter 1: IntroductionBravo User Guide

2

Who should read this guide

Job roles This user guide is for people with the following job roles:

Job role Responsibilities

Integrator Someone who writes software and configures hardware controlled by the Bravo.

Installer Someone who unpacks, puts together, and tests the Bravo before it is used.

Lab manager, administrator, or technician

Someone who is responsible for:

❑ Managing the Bravo

❑ Developing the applications that are run on it

❑ Solving the more challenging problems that may arise

❑ Developing training materials and standard operating procedures for operators

Operator Someone who performs the daily production work using the Bravo and solves routine problems.

Your organization may choose to create its own procedures for operators based on the information in this guide.


About Velocity11 user guides

About this topic This topic describes the different formats of Velocity11 documentation.

Each Velocity11 user guide is delivered to you as:

❑ Online help

❑ A PDF file

❑ A printed book

The information in each format is the same but each format has different benefits.

Where to find the user guides

Online help

The online help is added to your computer with the software installation.

PDFThe Bravo User Guide in PDF format is added to your computer with the software installation. It is located in C:\Program Files\Velocity11\VWorks4\Helpsystem.

Velocity11 websiteYou can download the latest version of any PDF file from our website at www.velocity11.com/techdocs/docdownloadpage.html.

All Velocity11 user documentation can be searched from the website at www.velocity11.com/support/support.html.

Online help The online help is the best format to use when you are working at the computer and when you want to perform fast or advanced searches for information. It is also the only format in color.

To open the online help:

1. In VWorks do one of the following:

Select Help > VWorks Help.

Click the help button on the toolbar.

Press F1.

2. If you are not currently in VWorks, you can open the help by navigating to it, for example, in:

C:\Program Files\Velocity11\VWorks4\HelpSystem\Bravo_ug\help.html.

Main features

The online help includes a navigation pane, content pane, and navigation buttons.

http://www.velocity11.com/techdocs/docdownloadpage.html

http://www.velocity11.com/support/support.html


4

The navigation pane has four tabs. The Contents, Index, and Search tabs provide different ways to locate information. The Using tab contains information about using the help system.

The content pane displays the online help topics.

Navigation buttons in the content pane allow you to navigate through the pages.

PDF user guides Computer requirementsTo open a user guide in PDF format, you need an Acrobat viewer. You can either use the viewer that is built into Adobe Acrobat, or you can download the free Adobe Reader application from http://www.adobe.com/support/downloads/main.html.

Printing and searching

We provide user guides in PDF format mainly for printing additional copies. You can use them for simple searches from the Find button, although these searches are much slower than online help searches:

More information

For more information about using PDF documents, see the Adobe Acrobat PDF help system that can be accessed from your Acrobat viewer.

Navigation pane Content pane Navigation buttons

http://www.adobe.com/support/downloads/main.html


Related information

What this guide covers

What is covered This guide covers the installation, setup, and operation of the Bravo as a stand-alone instrument.

Hardware version This guide covers hardware for the first version of the Bravo. This includes accessories such as the Pump Module and MicroWash Reservoir, but does not, for example, include the gripper arm.

Software versions This guide documents the use of the Bravo with VWorks4, file version 1.x and Bravo device driver plug-in 1.x.

Firmware version This guide documents firmware version 0.0.22 or later.

Related information

For information about... See...

Who this guide is for “Who should read this guide” on page 2

What this guide covers “What this guide covers” on page 5


Finding version numbers “Finding your version numbers” on page 6


6

Finding your version numbers

About this topic This topic shows you some ways to find out your version of VWorks, the Bravo device driver plug-in, and Bravo firmware.

From the software You can open the software to find the version of VWorks or Bravo device driver.

To find the VWorks or Bravo device driver version number:

1. Start VWorks.

2. Navigate to Help > About VWorks.

To find the firmware version number:

1. Start VWorks.

2. Open Bravo Diagnostics.

3. Click About and read the version number in the About Bravo Control dialog box.

From the files You can look at the VWorks and device driver version information in the executable files.

To find the VWorks version number:

1. Navigate to C:\Program Files\Velocity11\VWorks4.

2. Right-click VWorks4.exe.

3. Select Properties.

4. Click the Version tab.

To find the Bravo device driver version number:

1. Navigate to C:\Program Files\Velocity11\VWorks4\plugins.

2. Right-click Bravo.dll.

3. Select Properties.

4. Click the Version tab.

Related informationFor information about... See...

Opening diagnostics “Opening Bravo Diagnostics” on page 179

Finding the firmware version “What this guide covers” on page 5


Reporting Bravo problems

About this topic If you find a bug in the software or have a technical or hardware problem that you cannot resolve after reading the chapter section on maintenance and troubleshooting, read the information in this topic for how to report problems.

Reporting software problems

If you find a problem in the Velocity11 software, let us know by:

❑ Sending a bug report from within VWorks

❑ Sending an email to [email protected] or [email protected]

❑ Calling Velocity11 Technical Support at 1-800-979-4811 or 1-650-846-6611

Reporting hardware problems

If you have a problem with a hardware component of the Bravo that you cannot resolve, let us know by:

❑ Sending an email to [email protected] or [email protected]

❑ Calling Velocity11 Technical Support at 1-800-979-4811 or 1-650-846-6611

Sending files When resolving software bugs or other problems, we may ask you to send device and protocols files and the Velocity11 registry file from the Windows registry.

Reporting user guide problems

If you find a problem with this user guide or have suggestions for improvement, please take a minute or two to give us your feedback using the feedback button in the online help. Your comments will be reviewed promptly and used to write the next version of the guide.

You can also send an email directly to [email protected].


Reporting a bug “Sending a bug report” on page 8

Sending registry files “Moving or sending registry files” on page 9

mailto:[email protected]






8

Sending a bug report

About this topic This topic describes how to send a bug report to Velocity11 from VWorks.

Requirements Before you can send a bug report:

❑ The system’s computer must be connected to a network with internet access.

❑ The outgoing email server must be set up on the system’s computer by a Bravo or network administrator.

Sending a bug report A bug report is an email that you create and send from within VWorks. The email is sent directly to Velocity11.

To send a bug report:

1. Select Help > Report a Bug.

The Report a Bug dialog box opens.

2. Type a description of the error in the text box.

In your description, provide a summary of the error and, in the case of a software bug, a description of how we can reproduce it.

3. Click Email Velocity11 and wait until a Message Sent message box appears.

More informationFor information about... See...

Protocol files “About profiles” on page 80

Device files “Creating a device file” on page 79


Moving or sending registry files

About this topic This topic provides instructions on how to export a Windows registry file for emailing to Velocity11 or importing to another computer.

When to do this You may need to copy or send a registry file in the following situations.

❑ To move a labware or liquid library database to other devices using a different controlling computer

❑ To make a back up of a Bravo profile

❑ To transfer a Bravo profile from one computer to another

❑ To email a labware or liquid library database or Bravo profile when requested by personnel at Velocity11

About moving data The labware and liquid libraries and profiles are maintained in the Windows registry of the controlling computer.

If you make a change to the labware or liquids database or a profile, you can use a two-step process to propagate the change to another computer.

1. Export the Windows registry key containing the data to a file.

2. Import the file to the other computer’s registry.

Important !! IMPORTANT !! Making a mistake when editing the registry may cause critical failures with your operating system.

Exporting a registry key

To export a registry key:

1. From the Windows Start menu, select Run.

2. In the Open text box, type regedit.

3. Click OK.

The Windows registry editor opens.

4. Expand folders to display and select one of the following folders:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Velocity11\Shared\Labware

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Velocity11\Shared\Liquid Library

Log files “Setting log file options” on page 78

Exporting Velocity11 registry files “Moving or sending registry files” on page 9



10

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Velocity11\Bravo\Profiles

5. From the Registry (or File) menu, select Export.

The Export Registry File browser box opens.

6. Before saving the file, make sure that:

Selected branch radio button is selected

If you are moving the file to a computer with a different Windows operating system, Save as type is appropriately set

7. Save the file.

8. Select Registry > Exit (or File > Exit) to close the registry editor.

Importing a registry key

If this is the first time you are importing a registry file to the computer, you need to use the Open With command.

Before you start

You must have Windows Administrator permissions to perform this task.

To import a registry key:

1. Copy the registry file to any location on the recipient computer.

2. On the recipient computer, double-click the registry file.

The information in the file is written automatically to the registry.

Emailing a registry file

Occasionally, you may be asked to send a registry file to Velocity11.

To email a registry file:

1. Export the Windows registry key containing the data to a file.

2. Change the file’s extension to .re_ (This is necessary because many email servers do not allow *.reg files to be emailed.)

3. Email the file.


Labware database “Setting labware definitions” on page 147

Liquid library database “Setting liquid-handling definitions” on page 167


Safety information about the Bravo

Introduction This topic gives general information about the Bravo safety hazards.

Before using Before using a Bravo, your organization should make sure that you are properly trained in:

❑ General laboratory safety

❑ The correct and safe operation of the Bravo

❑ The correct and safe operation of other lab automation systems or components used in combination with the Bravo

If you are the person in your organization responsible for training others on the Bravo and you have a safety question, please take the time to ask us.

Safety labels Pay attention to any safety labels printed on your Bravo. A safety label, shown below, consists of a warning symbol. A description of the warning and information that will help you to avoid the safety hazard are located in the general hazard warning section of the user guide.

Chemical hazards Some chemicals used when working with the Bravo may be hazardous. Make sure that you follow the recommendations in the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) for every chemical that you plan to use. The manufacturer of the chemical should provide you with the MSDS.

Waste disposal Remember to dispose of chemicals in compliance with all applicable regulations.

Product use Velocity11’s products must only be used in the manner in which we intend, as described in our user guides. Any other use may damage the product or injure you. Velocity11 is not responsible for damages caused, in whole or part, by unauthorized modifications, or by procedures that are not explicitly described in our user guides. Any modifications or changes to products not expressly approved in Velocity11 user guides could void the warranty.

Moving parts injury hazard

!! INJURY HAZARD !! The Bravo has moving parts that can injure you if you deviate from the procedures given in this guide. Moving parts have the following warning symbol next to them.


12

!! INJURY HAZARD !! Keep your fingers, hair, clothing, and jewelry away from the Bravo while it is in motion.

Not all circumstances can be foreseen and more serious injury is possible. It is the responsibility of every operator to follow warnings and safety labels and keep away from the instrument whenever it is likely to move.

!! INJURY HAZARD !! Do not initialize the Bravo while touching it. Automatic motion begins when the device is initialized.

!! INJURY HAZARD !! Never touch any of the moving parts or attempt to remove or add labware while the Bravo is in operation. There are several places on the Bravo that could pinch, pierce, or bruise you.

!! INJURY HAZARD !! Operating the Bravo without safety guards or a light curtain connected to the safety interlock circuit increases the risk of injury.

The Bravo has a safety interlock circuit that must be closed for the system to operate. A jumper can be used to close the safety interlock circuit, but the European directives regarding the safe operation of machinery require that you always connect the safety interlock to a safety guard, light curtain, or enclosure.

0023

2

Shaded area indicates pinch point hazard


Improper cleaning hazard!! DAMAGE HAZARD !! Do not use any abrasives, corrosive cleaning agents, or metal brushes to clean any Bravo component or accessory.

Unpacking the Bravo!! DAMAGE HAZARD !! Read and follow all unpacking information before installation and use.


14

15Chapter 2: Bravo orientationBravo User Guide

Bravo orientation
2 This chapter gives you an overview of the Bravo.

❑ “About the Bravo” on page 16

❑ “Hardware overview” on page 17

❑ “Indicator lights” on page 21

❑ “The Bravo pipette heads” on page 22

❑ “Connection panel description” on page 24

❑ “Software overview” on page 26

❑ “Overview of the VWorks user interface” on page 28

Chapter 2: Bravo orientationBravo User Guide

16

About the Bravo

About this topic This topic introduces the Bravo with a brief description of the instrument and how it is meant to be used.

Product description The Bravo is a versatile liquid handler with a 9 plate-location platform suitable for handling 96-well, 384-well and 1536-well microplates. The Bravo is controlled by the Velocity11 automation software, VWorks. Fitted with a choice of seven interchangeable fixed-tip or disposable-tip pipette heads, it accurately dispenses fluids from 0.01–200 µL.

Ways to use the Bravo

The Bravo can be used either as a stand-alone instrument or as an integrated device in a lab automation system.

For example, in stand-alone mode, it can be placed in a laminar flow hood for use with cell-based applications or handling potentially hazardous materials.

As an integrated device in a lab automation system, it can be used to prepare plates for high-throughput screening or other automated process.


Hardware overview

About this topic This topic provides illustrations and descriptions of the Bravo’s hardware features.

Overview diagrams Front view

00219

Bravo

Front

00219

Pipette head

Deck location

Deck

Head mount

Top cover (x-axis)

Tie bar

Face plate

Indicator lights

Power switch

Pendant

Handles

Feature Description

Arm cover

(not shown)

The arm cover lies along the Bravo’s y-axis. It extends behind the face plate.

Face plate The face plate is attached with magnets. It displays the Velocity11 and Bravo logo.

Top cover The top cover lies along the Bravo’s x-axis.

Head mount Fixture to which the pipette head mounts along the x- and y-axes.

You can physically move the head mount while the Bravo is turned off.


18

Indicator lights These are used to show the status of the Bravo. Each light panel has four colors: red, yellow, green, and blue.

Tie bar The tie bar adds structural support to the Bravo.

!! DAMAGE HAZARD !! Never tug at or try to lift the Bravo by the tie bar.

Pipette head Bravo-compatible Velocity11 pipette head that aspirates and dispenses fluid.

Deck location Location on the deck that holds a plate or an accessory. The Bravo ships with nine plate pads, one on each location. You may need to remove a deck-mounted plate pad to install certain accessories.

Connection panel (shown on back view)

The connection panel on the back of the instrument contains AC power entry, the fuse holder, and the Ethernet, serial, and pendant ports.

Deck The area accessible by the pipette head. Made of aluminum, it supports 9 deck locations.

Pendant The Bravo pendant has two buttons on it:

❑ The Bravo disable button, which is red, raised, and illuminated

❑ The go button which is silver and flush

Power switch The power switch turns the Bravo on and off. It is on the right side of the instrument.

Feature Description


Back view

The features on the back of the Bravo are described in “Connection panel description” on page 24.

Deck locationsThe deck locations are numbered 1–3, 4–6, and 7–9 from left to right as you face the front of the instrument.

00220BravoBack

0022

0c

Serial and disable pendant ports

Pump I/O port

Ethernet port

Power input

00240BravoPlate Orientation

1 2 3

4 5 6

7 8 900240

Back

Front


20

Bravo axes

The Bravo axes are referred to throughout this guide. The following diagram indicates the axes.

The w-axis is the displacement of the pipettor inside the pipette head.

Accessories

00232BravoPinch Hazard

0023

2

Y

X

ZW

Accessory Description

Alignment Station Precisely positions plate for higher accuracy pipetting. This is particularly useful for 1536-well plates.

Auto Filling Reservoir Available for 96-well and 384-well plates. When used with a Pump Module, provides a continuously controlled supply of reagent.

Manual Fill Reservoir Available for 96-well and 384-well plates. Minimizes fill volume for precious reagents.

Microplate Vacuum Alignment Station

Secures microplates that are prone to warping.

MicroWash Reservoir (96-well or 384-well)

When used with a Pump Module, provides low carryover washes with minimal waste.

Orbital Shaking Station An orbital plate shaker.

Pump Module Two peristaltic pumps for supplying Auto Filling and MicroWash Reservoirs and removing waste.

Tip Trash A receptacle for used tips.


Related information

Indicator lights

About this topic This topic describes the code for the Bravo’s indicator lights.

Indicator light meanings

This table translates the indicator lights’ meanings.

Related information

Vacuum Filtration Station An accessory for holding filter plates and applying a vacuum for filtration.

Weigh Station Automatically monitors and maintains the liquid level within the Auto Filling Reservoir (for use with Pump Module).

Accessory Description


Pipette head “The Bravo pipette heads” on page 22

Indicator lights “Indicator lights” on page 21

Mode Light Meaning

Standby Blue solid Bravo is powered on.

Protocol Green blinks quickly Software is running a protocol.

Initialized and in Bravo Diagnostics

Yellow blinks Software has initialized the Bravo and Bravo Diagnostics is open.

Error in protocol Red blinks Software has encountered an error while performing a protocol.


The location of the indicator lights “Hardware overview” on page 17


22

The Bravo pipette heads

About this topic The Bravo uses interchangeable pipette heads that allow dispensing into entire plates at once or into a single column or row.

There are seven different pipette heads that use either fixed tips or disposable tips.

This topic provides a description of these pipette heads.

Compatible Bravo pipette heads

Disposable tip heads

Fixed tip heads

Fixed tip heads cannot be used to dispense in single columns or single rows.

Head Max volume Able to access

8LT 200 µL 96-well, 384-well plates; single column (8 wells)

16ST 70 µL 384-well, 1536-well plates; single column (16 wells)

96ST 70 µL 96-well, 384-well plates; single column (8 wells) or row (12 wells)

384ST 70 µL 384-well, 1536-well plates; single column (16 wells) or row (24 wells)

Head type Max volume Able to access

96F 50 µL 96-well, 384-well plates




Disposable tip head diagram

The following diagram shows a Series III 384 disposable tip pipette head.

About serial dilution capabilities

The Bravo uses newly designed Series III 96-well and 384-well disposable tip pipette heads that enable access to single columns or rows for serial dilution, eliminating the need to change heads. VPrep-compatible Series II 96-well and 384-well pipette heads may be used on the Bravo, but they cannot perform single row or column dispensing.

Note: When using the heads in serial dilution mode, certain deck locations will not be accessible.

Controlling the pipette heads

The Bravo pipette heads are controlled through VWorks. Through VWorks, you can:

❑ Calibrate volumes

❑ Control pipette speed

❑ Enable tip touching

❑ Enable dynamic tip extension and retraction

Related information

Tip-box stripper pins

Pipette barrel

Retainer pin

For more information about... See...

VWorks ❑ “Software overview” on page 26

❑ “Overview of the VWorks user interface” on page 28

Serial dilution “Setting Serial Dilution (Bravo) task parameters” on page 128

Installing a pipette head “Mounting the pipette head” on page 67

Changing a pipette head “Removing pipette heads” on page 195


24

Connection panel description

About this topic This topic describes the connection panel inputs and outputs on the Bravo.

Connection panel diagram

The following diagram shows the features of the connection panel at the rear of the Bravo.

Feature Description

Serial port An RS-232 serial port that provides serial connection to the Bravo and firmware programming.

If you connect the Bravo using the serial port, you do not need to connect through the Ethernet port.

Ethernet port An Ethernet port that provides an Ethernet connection to the Bravo.

If you connect the Bravo using the Ethernet port, you do not need to connect through the serial port.

Pendant port The Bravo is equipped with a safety interlock circuit that must be closed for the system to operate. The pendant’s disable button interrupts this circuit.

The circuit may also be fitted with a light curtain to shut off power to the Bravo if the light boundary is breached. Light curtains are available from Velocity11 as a custom option.

AC power entry Used to connect the power cord.

00226Bravoconnections

Serial portEthernet port AC power entryPendant port Fuse holder


Pump I/O port The following diagram shows the Pump I/O port at the rear of the Bravo.

Related information

Fuse holder Contains the main fuse and a place for a spare fuse.

Use 10 A 250 V, 5 x 20 mm fuses.

Feature Description

00212c

00212cBravoAcc_IO

Pump I/O port

Feature Description

Pump I/O port An RJ-45 I/O port that enables you to connect a peristaltic pump to the Bravo. The connection is made with a straight-through shielded Cat-5 or Cat-6 (Ethernet) cable.

Note: This is not an Ethernet port and should only be used to connect Velocity11 accessories to the Bravo.

For more information about... See...

Connecting the Bravo “Connecting the Bravo” on page 47

Connecting with Ethernet or serial cable

“Choosing between a serial and an Ethernet network” on page 48


26

Software overview

About this topic This topic provides a brief overview of the software, VWorks, which controls the Bravo. Read this topic and the following topic, “Overview of the VWorks user interface” on page 28 as an introduction on how to operate the Bravo.

VWorks The Bravo is controlled by Velocity11’s automation software VWorks. VWorks takes sequences of tasks set up by a user, such as aspirate, dispense, or mix, compiles them into protocols, and then executes them as automated runs.

VWorks complies with the United States code of regulations Rule 21 CFR Part 11 to ensure the integrity of electronic records. All operations performed are written to an output file. An authorized administrator has the ability to limit users’ access to the system and records. For example, a user logged in as an operator may have the privilege to run protocols but not to create or edit them, while another type of user, such as a technician, can do both. All events are recorded with a time stamp and cannot be deleted or edited from within VWorks.

Bravo Diagnostics The Bravo has its own diagnostics interface within VWorks that enable you to:

❑ Create, edit, save, and load profiles. These are registry settings that contain communication, head type, and teachpoint settings that VWorks uses to execute protocols.

❑ Home and jog. You can use the jog buttons to move the pipette head incrementally and the home buttons to move the head to the home position.

❑ Create teachpoints. These are instructions that tell the pipette heads exactly where to move to perform a task.

❑ Configure deck locations. For example, specify which location on the Bravo’s deck is a MicroWash Station.

❑ Execute individual tasks. Tasks that are performed in a run (such as Tips Off, Tips On, Aspirate, and Dispense) can be executed individually through diagnostics.

ActiveX The Bravo has ActiveX controls that enable the Bravo to be controlled by another company’s software.

Contact Velocity11 Service Center for more information about ActiveX controls for the Bravo.


Related informationFor more information about... See...

The VWorks interface “Overview of the VWorks user interface” on page 28

Setting up the Bravo “Setting up the Bravo” on page 65

Using Bravo Diagnostics “About diagnostics” on page 178


28

Overview of the VWorks user interface

About this topic This topic introduces the pages, toolbars, and menus that make up the VWorks user interface (UI).

About the VWorks UI The VWorks UI is made up of a tabbed workspace, tabbed toolbars, a menu bar, and a status bar. The content of these items may change depending on whether you are viewing a device file or protocol file.

UI terminology The following diagram identifies the elements of the VWorks UI.

Task Parameters toolbar

Workspace

Protocol workspace tab

Control toolbar

Workspace, tasks, and devices toolbars Workspace tab

Standard toolbar

Log and Progress toolbars

Status bar

Toolbar tabs

Task Parameters tab

Task toolbar filter icons


Controlling the UI appearance

The toolbars can be moved or hidden to suit your preference.

To hide a toolbar:

1. Select View > item. When the item is unchecked, it disappears from view.

Select the item again to check mark it and bring it back into view.

Note: You can also access this menu by right-clicking on the protocol workspace.

Alternatively, you can convert the toolbars to tabs by clicking the pushpin. When you rest the pointer on a tab, it opens the toolbar.

To move a toolbar:

1. Drag the title of a toolbar.

The toolbar undocks from its position and you can move it freely.

2. Re-dock the toolbar:

a. Drag the toolbar title to display the docking arrows.

b. Select a docking position by dragging the toolbar until the pointer is directly over an arrow.

A preview of where the toolbar will dock appears.

c. Release the toolbar.

The toolbar docks to the selected position.

Pushpin


30

Device and Protocol file workspace

The device and protocol file workspaces are accessible by tabs when you open or create a device or protocol file. When multiple protocol files or device files are open, each has its own tab.

Device File

The Device File tabbed page is accessible when you open or create a device file. The Device File tabbed page displays a list of the devices and their properties that are in that device file. This is where you can edit and save the device properties and access diagnostics for the Bravo.

Docking arrows

Preview toolbar


Protocol File The Protocol File tabbed page is accessible when you open or create a protocol file. The Protocol File tabbed page is used to create, save, and then run protocols. Protocols are sequences of tasks that determine how your plates are manipulated on the Bravo.

The Protocol File has two tabs:

❑ Main Protocol. This is an editor used to create the protocol.

❑ Protocol Options. This specifies additional information associated with the protocol. For example, this is where you set the device file for the protocol.

Toolbars Workspace toolbarThe Workspace toolbar is accessible when viewing either device or protocol files. The Workspace toolbar displays all of the device and protocol files that are currently open and enables you to quickly move from one file workspace to another.


32

Available Tasks toolbar

The Available Tasks toolbar is only accessible when you are viewing a protocol file. This toolbar displays all of the tasks available for making protocols. The task icon display can be filtered by clicking one of the icons at the bottom of the toolbar or by entering a string of text.

Available Devices toolbar

The Available Devices toolbar is only accessible when you are viewing a device file. This toolbar displays all of the devices that VWorks can communicate with, if connected to the controlling computer. When you double-click a device in this list, a new device file containing the device is automatically created.


Main Log toolbar

The Main Log toolbar displays all the events that occur when VWorks is running. These events are automatically written to a text file in accordance to Rule 21 CFR Part11 and can be accessed at any time. Click on any column to sort log events according to that category.

Pipette Log toolbarThe Pipette Log toolbar displays all the details specific to each pipette transfer task that is performed when VWorks is running. These details are written to a text file in accordance to Rule 21 CFR Part 11 and can be accessed at any time. Click on any column to sort pipette log events according to that category.

Progress toolbar

The Progress toolbar contains information about the status and progress of the protocol.


34

Task Parameters toolbar

The Tasks Parameters toolbar is only accessible when viewing protocols. The Task Parameters toolbar has two tabs:

❑ Task Parameters. Displays the settings for the task that is currently selected in the protocol editor. Setting the parameters for a specific task is performed here.

❑ Device Selection. Displays all of the devices that are scheduled to perform the selected task and the devices that are available to perform the selected task. This page is typically used when there are multiple pipettors connected and there is a choice of which instrument to use for a task.


Standard toolbarThe Standard toolbar contains buttons for common commands such as creating new protocol files, copying, cutting, pasting, and printing. You can get information about each button by resting your pointer over it.

Control toolbar

The buttons on the Control toolbar have a variety of uses in VWorks and are documented as needed in this guide.

Menus Each of the menus is briefly described here.

File Use the commands on the File menu for:

❑ Creating, opening, closing, and saving files

❑ Printing

❑ Closing VWorks

Edit Use this menu for cutting, copying, pasting, and deleting tasks in a protocol.

View

Use the commands on this menu to toggle the display of the toolbars and status bar.


36

Tools

Use the commands on this menu to perform tasks specific to VWorks. These commands are documented as needed in this guide.

WindowUse this menu to view another file that is open but not currently displayed.

Help Use the commands on this menu to:

❑ Open the online help for VWorks

❑ Show the version of VWorks and the devices supported

❑ Email a bug report to Velocity11

Status bar The Status bar is located on the bottom of the running VWorks workspace. It displays the current state of VWorks, the current user, and tooltips.


Overview of VWorks “Software overview” on page 26

Setting up the Bravo “Workflow for setting up the Bravo” on page 66

Using Bravo Diagnostics “About diagnostics” on page 178

37Chapter 3: Installing the BravoBravo User Guide

Installing the Bravo
3 This chapter covers unpacking the Bravo and its computer and setting up a network to connect to the computer.

❑ “Laboratory set up requirements” on page 38

❑ “Electrical and environmental requirements” on page 39

❑ “Workflow for installing the Bravo” on page 40

❑ “Unpacking and inspecting the Bravo” on page 40

❑ “Connecting the Bravo” on page 47

❑ “Choosing between a serial and an Ethernet network” on page 48

❑ “About Ethernet networking” on page 49

❑ “Workflow for Ethernet networking” on page 52

❑ “Changing the Bravo’s IP address to be assigned dynamically” on page 53

❑ “Setting the network card’s IP address” on page 55

❑ “Connecting Ethernet cables” on page 58

❑ “Checking the Ethernet card’s IP address” on page 59

❑ “Installing and starting DHCP server software” on page 60

❑ “Turning off Ethernet firewall software” on page 62

Chapter 3: Installing the BravoBravo User Guide

38

Laboratory set up requirements

About this topic This topic describes the space and bench requirements for the Bravo. Read this topic and “Electrical and environmental requirements” on page 39 before you unpack and install the Bravo.

Space and bench requirements

Place the Bravo where there is:

❑ Proximity to power

❑ Enough space to accommodate the Bravo, computer, monitor, pendant, and accessories

❑ A fixed bench (without wheels) and with enough strength to support the Bravo without excessive shaking or movement

❑ Easy access such that it does not hinder your ability to quickly disconnect the power to the instrument if the need arises

Physical specifications

Related information

Dimension Value

Height 69.7 cm (27.4 in)

Width 64.8 cm (25.5 in)

Depth 43.8 cm (17.2 in)

Weight 52.1 kg (114.9 lb)

00232BravoPinch Hazard

0023

2

17.2 in

25.5in

27.4

in


Electrical and environmental requirements

“Electrical and environmental requirements” on page 39


Electrical and environmental requirements

About this topic This topic describes the electrical and environmental requirements the Bravo needs to operate properly. Read this topic and “Laboratory set up requirements” on page 38 before you unpack and install the Bravo.

Electrical supply The Bravo has the following electrical requirements:

Environmental operating requirements

Related information

Workflow for installing Bravo “Workflow for installing the Bravo” on page 40


Requirement Value

Voltage 100–240 VAC

Frequency 50–60 Hz

Current 11.5 A @ 115 VAC

6.5 A @ 230 VAC

Fuse 10 A 250 V

5 x 20 mm

Requirement Value

Temperature 0–40° C

Relative humidity 0–95% RH non-condensing

Elevation 1–2000 m


Laboratory requirements “Laboratory set up requirements” on page 38

Installing the Bravo “Workflow for installing the Bravo” on page 40


40

Workflow for installing the Bravo

About this topic This topic gives the procedures you need to follow to install the Bravo.

Workflow

Unpacking and inspecting the Bravo

About this topic The Bravo is shipped in two boxes. The instrument and packing kit arrive together in the instrument box. The computer arrives in its own box. This topic describes the shipped items and how to safely unpack them.

Before you start Before you unpack the Bravo:

1. Make sure the final location is near by and easily accessible.

2. Make sure that you have the following equipment:

A Phillips head screw driver to remove screws on the top cover

An 3 mm Allen wrench to remove the M4 screws from the x-axis shipping stops

A 2.5 mm Allen wrench to remove M3 screws from y-axis shipping stops

3. Remove the top of the instrument crate and verify it has the following items:

Pendant

Power cable

Serial cable

Crossover Ethernet cable

Velocity11 Bravo User Guide

CD-ROM containing VWorks software

Step Topic

1. “Unpacking and inspecting the Bravo” on page 40

2. “Connecting the Bravo” on page 47

3. “Choosing between a serial and an Ethernet network” on page 48

4. “Workflow for Ethernet networking” on page 52


Procedure !! IMPORTANT !! Save the packaging materials in case you ever need to move or ship the Bravo.

To unpack the Bravo:

1. Open the latches and remove the front of the crate.

2. Remove the sides and top from the crate.

3. Undo the wing nuts and remove the slats that hold the Bravo to the crate’s base.

00225

Bravo

Uncrate Bravo

00

22

5


42

4. Remove the shipping stops:

a. Remove the top cover by removing the four Phillips head screws located on the side and back of the cover.

00228BravoUncrate Bravo 2

0022

8


b. Remove the two shipping stops under the top cover. Each stop is held in place with two M4 screws.

These shipping stops prevent the head mount from moving in the x-axis during shipping.

00231Bravoremove cover

00231

Arm cover

Top cover

Head mount

00221Bravoshipping stops 1

00221c

X-axis shipping stops


44

c. Replace the top cover.

d. Remove the two shipping stops on either side of the head mount. Each stop is held in place with two M3 screws.

These shipping stops prevent the head mount from moving in the y-axis during shipping.

5. Lift the Bravo onto the lab bench or table. Use the lift points shown in the diagram.

!! INJURY HAZARD !! The instrument weighs 115 lbs and requires at least two strong people to lift it.

00222cBravoshipping stops 2

0022

2c

Y-axis shipping stops

Head mount

Arm


!! DAMAGE HAZARD !! Never lift from, or tug on, the tie bar.

6. Unpack the computer from its box according to the instructions included with the computer, and place it near the instrument.

Refer to the Bravo layout diagram below.

00233BravoProper lift

00234

Bravo

Improper lift

Tie bar


46

Bravo layout

Related information

00223

00223

Bravo

Bravo with computer


The workflow that this procedure belongs to

“Workflow for installing the Bravo” on page 40

What to do next “Connecting the Bravo” on page 47

Set up requirements ❑ “Laboratory set up requirements” on page 38



Connecting the Bravo

About this topic This topic provides instructions on how to connect the Bravo to power and to its controlling computer.

Before you start Before you plug in the Bravo, make sure the laboratory set up requirements have been met.

Procedure To connect the Bravo:

1. Plug one end of the Bravo power cord into the AC power entry located on the connection panel rear of the instrument and the other end into an appropriate grounded outlet.

2. Follow the instructions included with the computer for connecting it.

3. Plug the pendant into the pendant port on the back of the Bravo.

4. Connect the Bravo to the computer:

a. If using a serial connection:

Plug in the supplied serial cable to the serial port on the Bravo.

Plug the other end of the cable into one of the computer’s serial ports.

b. If using an Ethernet connection, refer to the topic about connecting Ethernet cables.

Note: If you are not sure which type of connection to use, refer to the topic on choosing between a serial and Ethernet network.

00223

00223BravoBravo with computer

PC power cableSerial or Ethernet cable

Bravo power cable


48

Related information

Choosing between a serial and an Ethernet network

About this topic The Bravo can be connected to the computer by either a serial or an Ethernet connection. If you do not know which you want to use, reading this topic can help you decide.

Connection options You can connect your Bravo to the controlling computer using either:

❑ A serial network

❑ An Ethernet network

How to choose Why serial might be better

Connecting the computer to devices using a serial cable is simpler than connecting with an Ethernet cable. With serial, there is no network card to install, no IP addressing to set up, and no software to install.

Serial connections have another advantage. If your controlling computer has an Ethernet network card, you do not have to use it for the lab automation network so you can use it to connect to your building’s general Ethernet network.

Why Ethernet might be betterEthernet is a faster, more reliable, and more flexible communication technology than serial. Depending on the specifications of your computer, you may experience communication problems with a serial network, in which case you will have to use an Ethernet network.


The connection panel “Connection panel description” on page 24



Set up requirements ❑ “Laboratory set up requirements” on page 38


Deciding between a serial or Ethernet connection

“Choosing between a serial and an Ethernet network” on page 48

Connecting with Ethernet “Workflow for Ethernet networking” on page 52


Another advantage of Ethernet networking is that you can run many devices from a single network port on your computer. Serial connections require one port for every device. If you are planning to network more than one Bravo, your computer may not have enough serial ports so you will have to add more.

Related information

About Ethernet networking

Network requirements

Network cards

Every device and computer requires a network card to communicate with each other. All Velocity11 instruments have a network card built in. Your Bravo computer has two network cards. One to communicate with the Bravo and the other to be used to communicate with your lab’s general network (for email, internet access, and so on).

Network connections

Ethernet cables are used to make the physical connections between the Bravo, the controlling computer and local area network (if you have one).

You can make a stand-alone connection between the computer and the Bravo or you can connect the computer to a dedicated lab automation local area network.

If you plan to connect multiple Bravos, you need an Ethernet switch to connect the single Ethernet cable attached to your computer and multiple Ethernet cables to connect to each of the Bravos.

About IP addresses IP address functionThe computer and each device on the network must be assigned a different number, called an IP address. IP addresses allow computers and devices to be uniquely identified on a network so that information can be specifically routed to them.

Ways to assign an IP address

There are two ways to assign an IP address:

❑ Statically, by assigning it manually so that it never changes.



“Workflow for Ethernet networking” on page 52

Connecting with Ethernet “Connecting Ethernet cables” on page 58

Connecting with serial “Connecting the Bravo” on page 47


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❑ Dynamically, by automatically assigning a new address every time the computer or device is turned on.

Dynamic assignment uses DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) software.

The computer’s IP address

It is important to consider separately the IP address of the computer and the IP addresses of the devices on the network.

The network card of the computer that is controlling the Bravo on a lab automation network always has a static IP address. This is even the case when the devices are dynamically assigned addresses because of the way that DHCP servers work. DHCP servers are usually configured to start when Windows starts.

When the server starts, it reads an initialization file that points it to the network card through which the computer will serve addresses. A screenshot of the initialization file is shown below.

Because the IP address and subnet mask in the file is static, the value of the network card’s IP address and subnet mask must always match the values in this file. By convention, this address is 192.168.0.1.

!! INJURY HAZARD !! It is possible to run a Bravo on a general network in which both the Bravo and the controlling computer have dynamic IP addresses but we caution against this for safety reasons. Remote computer operators may accidentally initiate an operation that causes the device to move unexpectedly when lab personnel are nearby.

If the computer is also part of a general network, the second card should have a dynamic IP address because the computer does not control the network and the computer is easier to administer this way.

Bravo’s IP address

The factory default is for the Bravo to have a static IP address of 192.168.0.82. However, you can change the IP address to be set dynamically.


Choosing an addressing method

Whether to assign the IP address of the Bravo statically or dynamically, depends on the network’s architecture.

With a stand-alone connectionIf you are connecting a single, stand-alone Bravo that will be set up this way long-term, set the IP address of the Bravo statically (or use a serial connection). This saves you from having to install DHCP server software.

When integrating into an existing LAN with DHCPIf you are connecting a Bravo to an existing network that is already running a DHCP server, it is strongly recommended that you dynamically assign the IP address of the Bravo, and leave the statically set IP address of the computer’s network card as it is.

When setting up a new LAN connection

If you are setting up a new network, you must decide whether to use static or dynamic IP addressing for the Bravo.

In general, if you have more than a few devices on your network it is more convenient to use automatic addressing because you can remove and add devices without having to set up their IP addresses statically each time. If you only have a few devices, it may be more convenient to set them statically and avoid having to set up the DHCP software.

DHCP Server Kit To make it easier for you to set up an Ethernet network, Velocity11 sells a DHCP Server Kit that includes:

❑ A networking card

❑ An Ethernet cable

❑ An Ethernet switch

❑ DHCP server software

The server supplied in the DHCP Server Kit works with computers running a Windows XP or 2000 operating system.

Without the kit, you need to obtain the necessary parts yourself.


Setting up Ethernet networking “Workflow for Ethernet networking” on page 52



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Workflow for Ethernet networking

About this topic If you have not yet decided whether to use a serial or Ethernet connection to connect your Bravo to the controlling computer, read “Choosing between a serial and an Ethernet network” on page 48.

This topic guides you through the Ethernet connection setup process according to the type of network you want to set up.

Ethernet connection workflow

This is the workflow you use to set up an Ethernet connection.

Skip step 2 and step 6 if you are assigning IP addresses statically.

Step Topic

1. “About Ethernet networking” on page 49

2. “Changing the Bravo’s IP address to be assigned dynamically” on page 53

3. “Setting the network card’s IP address” on page 55

4. “Connecting Ethernet cables” on page 58

5. “Checking the Ethernet card’s IP address” on page 59

6. Dynamic IP addresses only: “Installing and starting DHCP server soft-ware” on page 60

7. “Turning off Ethernet firewall software” on page 62


Changing the Bravo’s IP address to be assigned dynamically

About this topic This topic describes how to change Bravo’s IP address from static assignment to dynamic assignment using HyperTerminal.

You only need to follow this procedure if you do not want to use static IP address assignment.

Why do this The Bravo is set up at the factory with a static IP address of “192.168.0.82”.

If you want it to work with an Ethernet network that automatically assigns IP addresses, you need to reconfigure the Bravo’s firmware to assign the Bravo’s IP address dynamically.

Before you start Make sure that no other application is using the same serial port that you will use to connect the Bravo. For example, if you have recently reprogrammed a bar code reader, you may still have an open serial connection on the same port. To close the connection, correctly close the software application that is using the connection.

Procedure Even though your goal is to set up an Ethernet connection, the only way to change the Bravo’s IP address is to temporarily connect to the Bravo with a serial cable.

To set the Bravo’s IP address to be assigned dynamically:

1. Physically connect a serial cable between the computer and the Bravo.

2. Use HyperTerminal to open a communication connection to the Bravo:

a. Navigate to Start > Programs or All Programs > Accessories > Communications > HyperTerminal.

The Connection Description dialog box opens.


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b. In the Name text box, type a simple, one-word name to give the connection, and click OK.

The Connect To dialog box opens.

c. In the Connect using list box, select the COM port on your computer to which the serial cable to the Bravo is connected and click OK.

d. Select the following port settings in the Properties dialog box and click OK.

A serial connection is made to the Bravo and HyperTerminal presents a blank screen.

e. Press ENTER.

3. Change the Using DHCP flag to on:

a. Press d (lower case) to highlight Using DHCP flag.

b. Press r (lower case) to refresh the interface.

The Using DHCP flag is now highlighted, indicating that the IP address will now be set dynamically.

Setting Value

Bits per second 115200

Data bits 8

Parity None

Stop bits 1

Flow control None


4. Check to make sure that the IP address starts with 192.168.

5. Press q (lower case) to quit from the Bravo remote terminal.

6. Exit HyperTerminal by clicking the close button or by selecting Exit from the File menu.

7. Disconnect the serial cable.

Related information

Setting the network card’s IP address

About this topic This topic describes how to manually set the IP address of the computer that controls your Bravo.

Ignore this procedure if you are setting up the computer supplied with your Bravo instrument. In this case, the computer’s network card should already be set up correctly.

However, if you are using a different computer (not the one supplied with your Bravo), you should follow the procedure here to make sure that the network card used to communicate with the Bravo is on the same subnet (that is, 192.168.0).

Procedure To manually set the network card’s IP address:

1. In Windows, click Start > Settings > Network and Dial-up Connections.

2. Right-click the icon for the new local area connection (which may be Local Area Connection 2 on your system), and click Properties.





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3. Double-click Internet Protocol (TCP/IP).

This manually configures the IP address of the card.


4. Click OK.

5. Close the Network Connections window.





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Connecting Ethernet cables

About this topic This topic describes two ways to connect Ethernet cables between a Bravo and the computer.

Ways to connect You can use Ethernet to connect a Bravo to the computer:

❑ Directly

❑ Through a switch

If you are setting up a stand-alone Bravo, you can use either method. If you are setting up a local area network that has other devices on it, follow only the directions for using a switch.

Before you start Before starting this procedure and if you are setting up a new network, make sure that the IP address of the computer’s network card has already been statically assigned.

Connecting directly To connect your Bravo directly to the computer, you need the crossover Ethernet cable (supplied).

To connect directly to the computer with Ethernet:

1. Connect a crossover Ethernet cable to the Ethernet port of the connections panel.

2. Connect the other end of the cable to the Ethernet port of the computer.

Connecting through a switch

An Ethernet switch connects the single cable coming from the computer to one or more cables that lead to one or more devices. A switch is included in the Velocity11 DHCP Server Kit.

Note: Do not use a crossover cable with a switch. The switch performs the crossover function.

If you are setting up a new network, connect the Ethernet switch to the computer and then connect the Bravo to the Ethernet switch using the procedures in this section.

If you are adding a Bravo to an existing LAN, you do not need to perform the first procedure because the switch should already be connected.

To connect the switch to the computer:

1. Connect the power cord to the switch.

2. Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into any Ethernet port of the switch.

3. Plug the other end into the available Ethernet port of the computer.


To connect a Bravo to the switch:

1. Plug one end of a second Ethernet cable into any available port of the Ethernet switch.

2. Plug the other end into the Ethernet port of the Bravo.

Connecting additional Bravos

You can connect as many devices to the network as there are Ethernet ports available.

Related information

Checking the Ethernet card’s IP address

About this topic This topic describes how to verify the IP address of the network card in the computer.

Before you start Before you can check the IP address of a computer, the computer’s network card must have been manually assigned an address.

Procedure To check the IP address of a computer’s network card:

1. On the computer whose IP address you want to check, in Windows, navigate to Start > Programs or All Programs > Accessories > Command Prompt.

A Command Prompt window opens.

2. Type ipconfig and press ENTER.

One IP address for every network card in your computer is shown.

Related information








Manually assigning a network card’s IP address

“Setting the network card’s IP address” on page 55


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Installing and starting DHCP server software

About this topic Follow the procedure in this topic if you are setting up a new Ethernet local area network with dynamic IP addressing and have already connected the Bravo to the computer.

What is a DHCP server

A DHCP server is a software program that dynamically assigns IP addresses to devices in a local area network when they are turned on. Once installed, the server runs as a service that starts automatically when you start the computer.

The server software is included in the DHCP Server Kit from Velocity11.

!! IMPORTANT !! You should only run one DHCP server on one network, so do not install the Velocity11 DHCP server if you are integrating the Bravo into an existing network that has dynamic IP address assignment.

Installing the DHCP software

If you are using the computer that shipped with the Bravo, the DHCP server software should already be on the computer (and you should skip to the next procedure).

Note: Because the DHCP software runs as a service, you may need additional privileges on the controlling computer to install it. Please check with your network administrator if you think you may not have sufficient privileges.

To install the DHCP server software:

1. Insert the Bravo (or VWorks) CD-ROM into your CD-ROM drive.

2. Double-click the setup.exe file.

3. Follow the instructions in the wizard to complete your installation: make sure that you choose to install the DHCP server software.


Starting the DCHP server software

To install and start the DHCP server software:

1. Navigate to the folder where the DHCP server software is installed, for example, C:\Program Files\Velocity11\VWorks4\DHCP.

2. Double-click the file named dhcpsrv.exe.

The DHCP Server window opens.

3. Click Yes.

This installs the DHCP server on your computer.

The DHCP Server window opens and displays the status as Running.

4. Click the close box to close the window.

Stopping and starting the service

To stop and start the DHCP server using the DHCP server file:

1. Navigate to C:\Program Files\Velocity11\VWorks4\DHCP.

2. Double-click the file named dhcpsrv.exe.

3. Click Stop to stop the service or Start to start the service.





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Turning off Ethernet firewall software

About this topic If you are using an Ethernet network, read this topic to learn about the effect of firewalls and how to turn them off.

Firewall defined A firewall is a security system that protects a computer on an Ethernet network against external threats.

Types of firewall Hardware firewalls protect computers from threats outside the local network. Software firewalls prevent worms from propagating on the internal network.

Sources of software firewall

The computer controlling the Bravo may have one or more software firewalls running on it. There are two software firewall sources to be concerned with:

❑ Windows XP operating system has a built-in firewall that may be turned on by default or may have been turned on by someone in your organization.

❑ Your computer may be running a separate firewall program that your organization has purchased and installed.

Either of these types of firewall can prevent the devices on the network from showing up in the Discovered BioNet Devices dialog box.

With dynamic IP addressing

If your Ethernet network is using dynamic IP addressing, the firewall may block the request for an IP address from the Bravo when it is turned on.

With static IP addressing

If your Ethernet network is using static IP addressing, the Bravo software sends out a request for devices on the network to identify themselves, but the firewall may block the response.

About turning off firewalls

To turn off the firewall for your operating system, follow the directions in Windows Help and Support on your computer.

To turn off a separate firewall program, follow the directions in the documentation that accompanies the program. You can either uninstall the program or stop it. If you choose to stop it, make sure that the program is not configured to start up again every time you restart the computer.


Passing data through the firewall

If your organization insists that a firewall should remain on, it is possible to configure the firewall to allow data that is transmitted on a particular port to pass through.

If you are using dynamic IP addresses the firewall should pass data though on UDP ports 67 and 7611.

If you are using static IP addresses, the firewall should pass data though on UDP port 7611.

For help configuring the firewall, consult an experienced network administrator.





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65Chapter 4: Setting up the BravoBravo User Guide

Setting up the Bravo
4 This chapter explains how to set up the Bravo instrument and the VWorks software. Read this chapter after unpacking and installing your Bravo.

❑ “Workflow for setting up the Bravo” on page 66

❑ “Mounting the pipette head” on page 67

❑ “Turning on the Bravo” on page 71

❑ “Starting VWorks” on page 72

❑ “Logging in and changing your password” on page 73

❑ “Adding and managing user accounts” on page 74

❑ “Setting up email error notification” on page 77

❑ “Setting log file options” on page 78

❑ “Creating a device file” on page 79

❑ “About profiles” on page 80

❑ “Creating a profile for the Bravo” on page 81

❑ “Editing teachpoints” on page 84

Chapter 4: Setting up the BravoBravo User Guide

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Workflow for setting up the Bravo

About this topic This topic outlines the procedures you need to follow to set up the Bravo.

Workflow The general workflow for setting up the Bravo.

Step Topic

1. “Mounting the pipette head” on page 67

2. “Turning on the Bravo” on page 71

3. “Starting VWorks” on page 72

4. “Logging in and changing your password” on page 73

5. “Adding and managing user accounts” on page 74

6. “Setting up email error notification” on page 77

7. “Setting log file options” on page 78

8. “Creating a device file” on page 79

9. “Creating a profile for the Bravo” on page 81

10. “Editing teachpoints” on page 84


Mounting the pipette head

About this chapter Both Series III and Series II Velocity11 pipette heads can be used on the Bravo. This topic describes how to mount a pipette head.

About the pipette head mount

The pipette heads are mounted to the head mount with an angled dovetail interface, and are secured with two head-retainer pins.

Familiarize yourself with the dovetail features both on the top of the pipette head and underneath the head mount before mounting the pipette head.

This diagram shows the angled dovetail and head lock at the bottom of the head mount.

00218Bravopendant connection

0021

8


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This diagram shows a Series II pipette head.

Procedure To mount a Bravo pipette head:

1. Make sure that the head mount is in its home position above deck location 5. (If it is not, use the Home XYZ command in Bravo Diagnostics.)

2. Power off the Bravo instrument.

3. Remove the pipette head from packaging and place it in the stand to protect the barrels.

!! DAMAGE HAZARD !! Never rest the bottom of the pipette head on a surface. This may damage the barrels.

4. Pull out the two head-retainer pins and twist them a 1/4 turn so that they remain retracted.

5. Slide the pipette head onto the head mount, from left to right.

00227

Bravo

Head fitting 00227

00227

Bravo

Head fitting 00227

Head-retainer pins

Electronics connector


6. Rotate the head lock clockwise until it reaches its hard stop.

This makes sure that the head is fully seated and does not shift position during operation.

7. Twist the two head-retainer pins so they snap in, securing the pipette head on the mount.

00235BravoInstalling head 1

Head lock

Retainer pin


70

Related information

00237BravoInstalling Head 3


The workflow this procedure belongs to

“Workflow for setting up the Bravo” on page 66

Homing the head mount “Homing the pipette head” on page 183

The difference between Series II and Series III pipette heads

“Setting Serial Dilution (Bravo) task parameters” on page 128

Removing a pipette head “Removing pipette heads” on page 195

The next step “Turning on the Bravo” on page 71

Available pipette heads “The Bravo pipette heads” on page 22

Location of power switch, head mount, and so on

“Hardware overview” on page 17


Turning on the Bravo

About this topic This topic describes how to turn on the Bravo.

Procedure To turn on the Bravo:

1. Make sure that the main power line and Ethernet or serial cables are plugged into the connection panel.

2. Turn on the computer and log in to Windows.

3. On the side of the Bravo, press the power switch to the on (|) position.

The green light on the switch is illuminated when the Bravo is on.

Related information

00224

Bravo

Front with power switch

Power switch location on right side of Bravo


Indicator lights “Indicator lights” on page 21



The next step “Starting VWorks” on page 72


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Starting VWorks

About this topic This topic describes how to start VWorks before setting up the Bravo for the first time.

When to start VWorks

Start VWorks after you have turned on the Bravo and computer and logged in to the computer operating system.

Starting VWorks To start VWorks:

1. Make sure that everyone is clear of the Bravo and that there are no objects that could obstruct the pipette head.

!! INJURY HAZARD !! When VWorks starts, robot and instrument parts may unexpectedly move to their home positions.

2. Double-click the shortcut to VWorks on the Windows desktop.

Note: If the shortcut has been deleted, open the folder C:\Program Files\Velocity11\VWorks4 and create a new shortcut from the executable file VWorksversion.exe.

The VWorks splash screen opens.




The next step “Logging in and changing your password” on page 73


Logging in and changing your password

About this topic This topic describes how to log in to VWorks and, if necessary, change your password.

Logging in To log in to VWorks:

1. Click Log in.

2. Enter your account User Name.

3. Enter your password and click OK.

Note: If this is the first time anyone has logged in to this installation of VWorks, there is one administrator account called administrator and its password is administrator.

Changing your password

If you are an operator or a technician, you can change the password for your user account by following this procedure.

To change your user account password:

1. Select Tools > User Management.

2. Click the Change Password button.

3. In the Change Password dialog box, enter your old and new passwords and click OK.


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4. Close the User Editor dialog box.

Related information

Adding and managing user accounts

About this topic We recommend that the Bravo administrators create an account for every user. The privileges set for the account should be appropriate for the user’s job role.

This topic explains how to add and edit user accounts.

You must be logged in with an administrator account to perform these procedures.

About user accounts and passwords

User accounts can be disabled but not deleted.

User names and passwords are case sensitive.

Passwords must contain six or more characters.

If a user enters an incorrect password three times (consecutively), the user is locked out until an administrator resets the account.

Adding a user account

To add a user account:


2. In the User Editor dialog box, click Create new user and enter a name for the user.

3. Enter values in the User Editor dialog box.




The next step “Creating a device file” on page 79

Changing your password if you are an administrator

“Adding and managing user accounts” on page 74


4. Click Update selected user to save changes, and then close the dialog box.

Disabling a user account

You cannot delete a user account, but you can disable it.

To disable an account so that the user cannot log in:


2. Select the account.

3. Select the Account disabled check box.


Resetting a user account

If a user mis-types their password three times in a row, they are locked out of their account until an administrator resets the account.

To reset an account:



3. Click Reset failed login count.



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Changing a password

An administrator can reset the password of any account. Operators and technicians can change their own passwords.

To reset a password:



3. Click Set password, enter the new password twice and click OK.

4. Close the dialog box.





Changing your password if you are an operator or a technician

“Logging in and changing your password” on page 73


Setting up email error notification

About this topic This topic describes how to add an email address to VWorks so you can be notified by email or pager when there is a run error.

Email setup in VWorks enables you to do the following tasks:

❑ Automatically be notified by email or pager when errors occur during a protocol run

❑ Send a bug report to Velocity11

Requirements for email setup

Before you can send an email from VWorks:

❑ The Bravo computer must be connected to a network with internet access

❑ The outgoing email server must be set up on the system’s computer

Setting up email To set up the outgoing email server:

1. Select Tools > Options.

2. In the Email Setup group box, select Enable Email daemon check box.

3. In the Email Setup group box, enter the name of your SMTP server name (outgoing email server).

4. If the server requires a user name and password:

a. Select the Authentication type from the list box.

b. Enter your Authorized user name and Password for the selected authentication type.

This information only needs to be set up once, provided the email account remains active. All email sent from VWorks is authenticated using this account.





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Setting log file options

About this topic This topic describes how to change the log files location. There are two log types:

❑ Pipette log. The pipette log records all pipetting transfer tasks.

❑ Main log. The main log records all of the actions that occur in VWorks.

You cannot edit or delete log entries within VWorks, but you can decide where they are stored on your hard drive.

Changing the log files location

To change the location for storing your log files:

1. Select Tools > Options.

2. To change the default location, click the browse button, navigate to the desired directory and click Save.

The path to the folder where the log files are saved is displayed.

Related information

The next step “Setting log file options” on page 78

How to send a bug report using email

“Sending a bug report” on page 8







Creating a device file

About this topic Creating a device file is something that needs to be done when setting up a Bravo for the first time and is not usually changed thereafter.

This topic describes how to create a new device file for the Bravo.

Device file defined Device files contain data about how a device is configured.

Device file location Device files have the file name format file name.dev and are stored in the folder location that you specify when saving the file.

Procedure To create a device file for the Bravo:

1. In the Available Devices toolbar, double-click the Bravo pipettor icon.

A device file opens in the main display area.

2. Under Bravo Properties, enter a name for the Bravo.

3. Select a profile if you have one.

If this is an initial set up, you probably will not have a profile. In this case, save it with the default entry.

4. Select File > Save as.

5. Optionally, navigate to a directory.

6. Enter a name for the file.

7. Click Save.

The file is saved with a .dev extension.




The next step “Creating a profile for the Bravo” on page 81


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About profiles

Profiles defined A profile contains the initialization settings associated with a particular Bravo. The data in a profile is used by VWorks to identify each Bravo on the network.

A profile can also contain other basic settings that you are unlikely to change once set up.

Because profiles identify Bravo devices on the network, each Bravo must have its own profile.

You can create, modify, and delete profiles as needed.

Stored settings Profiles are stored in the Windows registry.

The settings stored in a Bravo profile include:

❑ Whether the Bravo is connected using serial or Ethernet

❑ If the Bravo is connected using Ethernet, the Device ID of the Bravo on the network

❑ If the Bravo is connected using serial, the COM port that the controlling computer uses for communication

❑ The Bravo’s teachpoints

❑ The type of pipette head used, for example, 96LT, 200 µL

❑ Configuration of accessories


Creating a profile “Creating a profile for the Bravo” on page 81

Managing profiles “Managing profiles” on page 192

Backing up or moving a profile file

“Moving or sending registry files” on page 9


Creating a profile for the Bravo

About this topic This topic describes how to create a new profile for the Bravo.

Profiles enable VWorks to:

❑ Identify and communicate with the Bravo

❑ Determine which pipette head is being used

❑ Store teachpoints and other registry file values

Every Bravo set up that requires different teachpoints requires a profile for that set of teachpoints. For example, if you add an accessory such as a MicroWash Reservoir to the Bravo’s deck, create a new profile that includes the new teachpoints for the MicroWash Reservoir.

Similarly, each pipette head requires a profile. (If you move a pipette head from one Bravo to another, you need to create a new profile. You cannot use the profile from the first Bravo.)

Before you start Before you can create a profile, you have to open or create a device file.

Procedure To create a new profile:

1. Make sure the device file is open.

2. Click Device Diagnostics.

3. Click the Profiles tab.


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4. Click Create a new profile, enter a name and click OK.

It is highly recommended that you identify the name of the pipette head in the name you choose for the Bravo profile. For example, include the lab name, the head type, and the head’s serial number in the profile name. If this computer runs multiple Bravos, also identify the device.

5. Set the Connection type:

Select Ethernet if your Bravo is connected to your computer with an Ethernet connection.

If you have a serial connection, select the COM port the connections is using.

6. If you selected an Ethernet connection, click Find available device.

7. In the Discovered BioNet Devices dialog box, select the Bravo and then click OK.

8. Configure the pipette head settings:


a. Select the Head type from the list box.

b. If you selected a head type that uses disposable tips, select the Default tip type from the list box. This is must be a Velocity11 brand tip.

c. If you selected a disposable tip head type, you can optionally change the w-axis and z-axis tips off positions. However, the default values are adequate for most applications.

The W-axis tips-off position is the w-axis position the pipette head moves to when ejecting the tips.

The Z-axis tips-off position offset is the z-axis position the pipette head moves to when ejecting tips.

9. Optionally, change the Miscellaneous settings to be applied during a protocol run.

If you are unsure what values to set, use the default values. You can always change them later.

10. Click Update this profile to save the current selections and settings.

Miscellaneous settings

Description

Approach height

A safety margin about a plate. This is the z-axis height above a plate that the tips move to before moving to another quadrant of the plate.

Z-axis safe position

This z-axis safe height is measured down from above. So, the head is at its highest point above the deck when the safe height is zero. A safe position of 10 means that the bottom of the pipette tips are 10 mm above the top surface of the plate when the head moves between quadrants.

Bravo moves to the z-axis safe height when moving between plate locations. Increasing this value may shorten run times by minimizing the z move between tasks. Making this value too large causes the pipette head to crash into labware when moving between plate locations.

Prompt user to home W-axis on the first initialization

If this is selected, when the Bravo is initialized, you are warned before the w-axis is homed. This allows you to make sure that liquid is not unexpectedly dispensed from tips during the homing.


84

11. Click Initialize this profile to initiate communication to the Bravo using the new profile.

The Bravo needs to be initialized before you edit teachpoints.

Related information

Editing teachpoints

About this topic This topic describes how to check and edit a teachpoint.

Teachpoint defined A teachpoint is a point in space that the pipette head can move to and is defined by a set of axial coordinates.

Each location on the Bravo deck has a default teachpoint that can be edited when necessary. The default teachpoints are set so that well A1 is the back-left corner well.

When to do this You need to edit teachpoints when:

❑ You first set up your Bravo

❑ You add an accessory or additional pipette head to the Bravo

Typically, these are procedures that you do once and then will not have to do again.

Before you start If you are performing this procedure at a time other than initial set up, before you check and edit your teachpoints:

❑ Turn on your Bravo

❑ Log into VWorks

❑ Make sure you have the correct profile loaded and initialized




The next step “Editing teachpoints” on page 84

Setting up a Bravo profile “Creating a profile for the Bravo” on page 81


What to do if the Bravo device does not appear in step 6

“Troubleshooting” on page 199


Editing a teachpoint Follow this procedure to set or edit a teachpoint.

To edit a teachpoint:

1. Remove all labware from the deck locations.

2. Open the Bravo Diagnostics dialog box and click the Jog/Teach tab.

3. If you are using a pipette head with disposable tips, place a tip firmly on the head’s barrel that corresponds to the A1 well of the labware you are using.

Make sure that the disposable tip is a Velocity11 tip and is the same type that you specified in the Default tip type field of the head’s profile.

4. If you are using a fixed tip head, set the teachpoint according to the A1 needle of the pipette head.

5. If setting up for the first time, select location 5 from the Location list box, otherwise select the desired location, and click Approach.

6. Visually check the position of the pipette tip.

It should be directly above the teachpoint (indicated by crosshairs on the A1 corner of the plate pad) by the Approach height set in Bravo diagnostics (Jog/Teach tab).

7. Use the Jog Axes commands to move the pipette head to the correct teachpoint:

a. Jog the pipette head down (z-axis) until it is approximately 2 mm above the plate pad.

Reduce the increment value when the tip gets close to the deck.

!! DAMAGE HAZARD !! Especially for a fixed tip head, be very careful not to jog down too far. Jogging down too far will damage the tip.

b. Jog the pipette head in 0.05 mm increments in the y and x directions, zeroing in on the crosshairs.

c. Jog the pipette head in 0.05 mm increments in the z direction until the tip clears the plate pad by about the thickness of a sheet of paper.


86

8. When the tip is in the correct position (directly over the crosshairs with paper-thin clearance), click Teach.

Verify the information in the message box before you click OK.

9. To save the teachpoint, click the Profiles tab and click Update this profile.

Setting other teachpoints based on one teachpoint

After setting a single teachpoint as described above, you can have VWorks calculate the other eight teachpoints based on the selected teachpoint. Typically, this is done upon initial set up of a new head.

To set the other 8 teachpoints:

1. On the Jog/Teach diagnostics page, make sure that the teachpoint you just taught (in the above procedure) is set in the Location field.

The teachpoint for the other locations will be set based on this one.

2. In the Advanced operations area of the Jog/Teach page, select Set all teachpoints based upon selected teachpoint.


3. Click Perform advanced operation.

VWorks calculates the teachpoints for the other eight locations, keeping the z-axis coordinate the same and changing the x and y coordinates according to their spacing.

4. To save the teachpoints, click the Profiles tab and click Update this profile.

Setting teachpoints for accessory locations

If your Bravo’s deck has any accessories such as the Weigh Station or a Vacuum Filtration Station, you need to set teachpoints for these individually.

To set teachpoints for accessories:

1. Follow step 1– step 9 of “To edit a teachpoint:” on page 85.

Make sure to set the Location field to the location of the accessory.

Verifying teachpoints

After setting and saving teachpoints, it is good practice to check each teachpoint.

To verify a teachpoint:

1. On the Jog/Teach diagnostics page, set the Location field to the location you want to check.

2. Click Approach.

3. Use this table to decide your next step.

4. Repeat the above steps for each teachpoint.

If the tip is... Then...

Above the crosshairs at the approach height

a. Click Move to move the tip to the teachpoint.

b. Visually check the position of the pipette tip. It should be at the teachpoint, that is, directly over the crosshairs with a clearance of about the thickness of a sheet of paper. (If it is not, repeat “To edit a teachpoint:” on page 85.)

Not above the crosshairs or appears to be closer to the deck than the approach height

There is a problem with the teachpoint. Repeat “To edit a teachpoint:” on page 85.


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Related informationFor information about See...



Opening Diagnostics “Opening Bravo Diagnostics” on page 179

Initializing a profile “Creating a profile for the Bravo” on page 81 (step 11)

Changing the pipette head “Removing pipette heads” on page 195

The Jog/Teach diagnostics page “About the Jog/Teach page” on page 180

Approach and Move commands “Using the Move and Approach commands” on page 187

89Chapter 5: Preparing for a runBravo User Guide

Preparing for a run
5 This chapter describes how to start VWorks and prepare to run an existing protocol.
All of the procedures in this chapter and the following chapter (“Performing a run” on page 95) can be performed by someone with operator privileges.

All procedures in this chapter assume that the Bravo instrument and the VWorks software have been installed and set up. For more information, see:

❑ “Installing the Bravo” on page 37

❑ “Setting up the Bravo” on page 65

❑ “Installing VWorks” on page 203

❑ “Creating protocols” on page 107


❑ “Workflow for preparing for a run” on page 90

❑ “About tasks, processes, and protocols” on page 91

❑ “Opening a protocol in VWorks” on page 92

❑ “Understanding the protocol” on page 93

❑ “Preparing the Bravo for a run” on page 94

Chapter 5: Preparing for a runBravo User Guide

90

Workflow for preparing for a run

About this topic This topic gives the order of recommended tasks before performing a run and tells you where to look for information and procedures for each task.

Workflow The general workflow for starting the Bravo and preparing for a run is given in the following table:

Related information

Step Topic

1 “Turning on the Bravo” on page 71

2 “Logging in and changing your password” on page 73

3 “About tasks, processes, and protocols” on page 91

4 “Opening a protocol in VWorks” on page 92

5 “Understanding the protocol” on page 93

6 “Preparing the Bravo for a run” on page 94


Protocols “About protocol files” on page 108

VWorks “Software overview” on page 26


About tasks, processes, and protocols

About this topic This topic defines some terms that you need to know before you can understand or create protocols.

Task defined A task is an operation usually performed by a device, usually on one or more plates and is represented by an icon in the protocol editor. It has associated parameters that are defined in the Task Parameters toolbar.

The following example icon represents a task for specifying labware on the Bravo deck.

Some tasks can only be used in certain conditions, for example as part of a sub-process.

Sub-process defined A sub-process is a sequence of tasks performed as a sub-routine within a protocol. Sub-processes are represented by a sub-process icon in the protocol.

Typically, the Bravo’s pipetting tasks can only be added to a protocol process as part of a sub-process. The sub-process icon can be expanded or collapsed to make a process easier to read.

The following diagram shows an expanded sub-process..

Protocol defined A protocol is one or more processes that are run together.

The following example shows one protocol with two sub-processes.


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Run defined A run is a single protocol that is performed one or more times in a series.

When you start a run, you are prompted to enter the number of cycles that you want to run. The value that you enter represents the number of times the protocol executes before the run ends. For example, a value of four means that the protocol runs four times in the series.

Related information

Opening a protocol in VWorks

About this topic All runs on the Bravo require a protocol. This topic describes how to open a protocol that has already been created. It also describes how to move between open protocols in VWorks.

Procedure To open a protocol:

1. Select File > Open.

Make sure you set the file type to Protocol when browsing for the file.

You can also open a protocol by navigating to the .pro file in Windows and double-clicking it. This launches VWorks and opens the protocol.

Multiple protocols In VWorks, you can have more than one protocol open at a time.

The name of the current protocol appears in the title bar.

To move between multiple protocols:

1. Click on the tab for the protocol you want to view.



“Workflow for preparing for a run” on page 90

The next step “Opening a protocol in VWorks” on page 92

An example of a typical Bravo protocol

“An Example protocol” on page 109


Related information

Understanding the protocol

About this topic This topic gives an overview of the information to become familiar with when running a protocol.

What you should know

At a minimum, become familiar with the following:

❑ Where you need to position the plates before the run and where they are moved to during the run

❑ Whether you need to replace fluids and empty waste during the run

❑ Whether you need to remove and add plates during the run

❑ Which liquids you need to prepare, where they should be placed, and in what kinds of reservoir

Related information

Name of current protocol Click tab to display this protocol file




Creating a protocol “Creating a new protocol” on page 111

The next step “Understanding the protocol” on page 93

For information about... See

Where this topic fit into the workflow


The next step “Preparing the Bravo for a run” on page 94


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Preparing the Bravo for a run

About this topic This topic describes the recommended steps to set up the Bravo for a run.

Procedure To prepare the Bravo for a run:

1. Make sure the correct pipette head is installed.

2. Initialize the Bravo:

a. In the Workspace toolbar, select the device file you are using.

b. Make sure the Bravo is selected in the Devices list.

c. Click Initialize selected devices.

3. Place plates, tip boxes, and other labware in their correct locations on the Bravo deck.

To avoid variability problems, use only Velocity11 brand tips.

4. If you are using an accessory such as a pump or weigh station, check to make sure reservoirs are filled, the waste bottles are empty, and all tubing is correctly connected.

5. Empty the Tip Trash, if installed.

6. Compile the protocol.

7. Run the protocol in simulation mode.


Initializing the Bravo “Installing a pipette head” on page 196

Changing the pipette head ❑ “Removing pipette heads” on page 195




95Chapter 6: Performing a runBravo User Guide

Performing a run
6 A run is a single protocol that is performed one or more times in a series.
This chapter describes how to run an existing protocol on the Bravo.

All of the procedures in this chapter can be performed by someone with operator privileges.

All procedures in this chapter assume that the Bravo instrument and VWorks software have been prepared for the run. For more information, see “Preparing for a run” on page 89.


❑ “Workflow for performing a run” on page 96

❑ “Starting a run from VWorks” on page 96

❑ “Pausing or stopping a run using VWorks” on page 98

❑ “Stopping the pipette head using the pendant” on page 100

❑ “Monitoring a run” on page 101

❑ “Working with the Log toolbars” on page 102

❑ “Cleaning up after a run” on page 104

❑ “Logging out of VWorks” on page 105

❑ “Shutting down the Bravo” on page 105

Chapter 6: Performing a runBravo User Guide

96

Workflow for performing a run

About this topic This topic tells you where to find the information about starting a run and performing tasks associated with running a protocol.

Workflow

Starting a run from VWorks

About this topic This topic describes how to start a run using the Start button in VWorks. Start a run after performing pre-run checks and opening a protocol.

Procedure To start a run:

1. Make sure that the Bravo deck and the area above the deck are clear (except for the labware used in the protocol).

2. In VWorks, click Start.

If this is the first run with this device file, VWorks confirms communication with all devices and instructs the devices to home.

If there are no protocol compilation errors, the Number of Cycles dialog box opens.

3. In the Number of Cycles dialog box, type in the number of times that you want to execute the protocol during the run, or check Run protocol until manually aborted.

Step Topic See...

1. Powering up the Bravo and starting VWorks

“Preparing for a run” on page 89

2. Start a run “Starting a run from VWorks” on page 96

3. Monitor a run ❑ “Monitoring a run” on page 101

❑ “Working with the Log toolbars” on page 102

4. Pause a run “Pausing or stopping a run using VWorks” on page 98

5. Clean up “Cleaning up after a run” on page 104


4. Click OK.

The run starts unless Display confirmation is selected in the Configure Labware task parameters.

5. If Display confirmation is selected, the Confirm Labware Placement dialog box opens.

If the display shows the correct labware, click Continue to start the run, otherwise click Pause & Diagnose.

After clicking Pause & Diagnose, you have the option of continuing with the protocol, opening diagnostics, or aborting the run.

6. If User Message tasks are included in the protocol, you are prompted to respond to them as they execute.

If there are no User Message tasks to remind you to empty liquid waste containers and refill liquid source containers, set your own reminders using lab timers.


98

What happens after a run starts

After you start the run, the following events occur:

❑ The Start button becomes unavailable and the Pause button becomes available.

❑ Log messages on the Log toolbar indicate the start of the run. Also, log files record events as they are performed on all plates in the run.

❑ The first instructions of the protocol are executed.

If User Message tasks are included in the protocol, you are prompted to respond to them.

Related information

Pausing or stopping a run using VWorks

About this topic This topic describes when and how to stop or pause a protocol that is running.

Use this procedure to:

❑ Pause and continue a run, for example, when you want to:

Add or remove labware

Clean up a spill

Add buffer to a reservoir

Diagnose a problem that you notice

Perform an operation that is not part of the protocol

❑ Abort a run in a non-emergency situation

Procedure To pause or stop a run using VWorks:

1. In VWorks, click Pause.

The Scheduler Paused dialog box opens and the currently scheduled task continues to completion. This may take a minute or more. After that, no more tasks are performed.



“Workflow for performing a run” on page 96

Pausing a run “Pausing or stopping a run using VWorks” on page 98

What to do next (Monitoring the run)

“Working with the Log toolbars” on page 102


2. You now have three choices:

!! IMPORTANT !! Before continuing with a run, make sure that the system is in a valid state for the protocol.

Make sure that you have not made changes that will cause an error, such as moving a plate to a location that should not have a plate.

Related information

If you want to... Then...

Continue with the run Click Continue.

Troubleshoot a problem or perform a manual operation

Click Diagnostics, and select the module that caused the error.

This opens the diagnostics software for that module, allowing you to troubleshoot the problem.

Abort the protocol Click Abort Process.



“Workflow for performing a run” on page 96

Stopping the run using the disable pendant

“Stopping the pipette head using the pendant” on page 100

Starting a run “Starting a run from VWorks” on page 96

Monitoring a run “Monitoring a run” on page 101

Using the Log toolbar “Working with the Log toolbars” on page 102

Using Bravo Diagnostics “Using Bravo Diagnostics” on page 177


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Stopping the pipette head using the pendant

About this topic This topic describes when and how to stop the pipette head while it is in motion.

Use this procedure to:

❑ Abort a pipette head movement immediately

❑ Abort a run in an emergency situation

We do not recommend you use this procedure to:

❑ Pause and continue a run

If the stop button is pressed while the pipette head is performing an aspiration or dispense, the pipetting accuracy may be impaired. If you want to pause and then continue a run, use the Pause button in VWorks.

Procedure To stop the pipette head motion:

1. Press the red, raised button on the pendant.

This disables the Bravo’s motors causing all motion to stop, even while executing a task.

2. Release the disable button by turning it clockwise.

3. In the message box, click one of the action buttons to re-enable the motors to the head.

Note: Pressing the go button on the pendant will not re-activate the pipette head.

Related information

If you want to... Then click...

Abort execution of the command or task

Abort

Attempt re-execution of the command or task

Retry

Ignore the current command or task and proceed to the next command or task

Ignore


Pausing and continuing a run “Pausing or stopping a run using VWorks” on page 98


Monitoring a run

About this topic This topic describes what operations you need to monitor and how to view the progress of a run.

What to monitor After starting a run, monitor the operation of the Bravo. Exactly what you do to monitor a run depends on the protocol that you are using. For example, you might need to:

❑ Compare the motions of the pipette head to the protocol tasks being completed.

You can identify the task that is currently being performed from the position of the green ball in the process panes.

❑ Add and remove labware.

❑ Empty liquid waste containers.

❑ Fill liquid reservoirs.

!! IMPORTANT !! No errors are reported when a liquid waste container becomes full or a liquid reservoir becomes empty. (Exceptions to this are reservoirs on a Weigh Station.)

To guard against the problem of a full waste container or empty reservoir container, the protocol writer can incorporate User Message tasks into the protocol to remind the operator at the appropriate steps in the protocol. Alternatively, operators can set timer alarms to remind them to fill reservoirs and empty the waste container at the appropriate time.

Monitoring overall progress

You can monitor overall progress of the run in the Progress page of VWorks. (Click the Progress tab at the bottom of the Log toolbar.)

Using the go button on the pendant

“Setting User Message task parameters” on page 140



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Related information

Working with the Log toolbars

About this topic A history of events that occur when using the Bravo is recorded in a log file. These events are displayed in the Log toolbar.

Log files are text files that cannot be deleted or edited within VWorks and are typically used for troubleshooting purposes.

There are two types of log files:

❑ Pipette log. The pipette log records the details of all the liquid transfers.

❑ Main log. The main log records all of the actions that occur in VWorks.

This topic gives an overview of what the Log toolbars do and how to use their features.

Viewing the log toolbars

To view the log toolbars:

1. Select one of the following:

View > Main Log.

View > Pipette Log.

The toolbar opens at the bottom of the screen.

2. Refer to the table below to view different kinds of log data.


Pausing a run “Pausing or stopping a run using VWorks” on page 98

Starting a run “Starting a run from VWorks” on page 96

What to do when you get an error “Troubleshooting” on page 199


Log toolbar information

The following information is displayed in the Main Log toolbar.

Message color coding

The log color-coding scheme is listed here.

Related information

Log column Displays...

Timestamp Time and date of the event or error occurrence.

Class All events and error messages.

File name Name and directory location of the protocol or device file.

Session ID User session ID. When a user logs in, they are assigned a session ID. All logged actions will be assigned this ID.

Device Device at which the event or error occurred.

Location Deck location where the event or error occurred.

Process Name of the protocol process and sub-process that is running.

Description Description of the action that is being recorded.

Color Meaning

Black Standard events with a date stamp or user-added notes

Blue Liquid transfer events

Orange Warnings

Red Error

Green General information


Setting screen message options before a run

“Preparing the Bravo for a run” on page 94


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Cleaning up after a run

About this topic This topic describes the tasks you should perform when you have finished a protocol run.

Procedure To clean up after a run:

1. Remove manually placed plates from platepads.

2. Wash items such as reservoirs, tubes, and manifolds that were contacted by liquid.

3. Clean the deck of any spills or debris.

4. If necessary, use Bravo Diagnostics to remove pipette tips.

5. Check run logs for errors.

6. If you have administrator or technician privileges and you have modified the protocol, including selected options, you can save the protocol.

7. Log out of VWorks.

8. Optionally, shut down the Bravo.


Run logs ❑ “Working with the Log toolbars” on page 102

❑ “Setting log file options” on page 78

Saving protocols “Compiling and saving protocols” on page 114

Logging out “Logging out of VWorks” on page 105

Using the Log toolbar “Working with the Log toolbars” on page 102

Shutting down “Shutting down the Bravo” on page 105


Logging out of VWorks

About this topic This topic describes how to log out of VWorks.

Logging out of VWorks ensures that unauthorized users do not use your account to control the Bravo or its devices. For example, an administrator should log out after making changes in the plate editor.

Procedure To log out:

1. Click Log Out.

Related information

Shutting down the Bravo

About this topic This topic describes when and how to shut down the Bravo.

When to shut down Shut down the Bravo if you intend to:

❑ Move it

❑ Leave it unused overnight

Procedure To shut down the Bravo:

1. Make sure that the post-run clean up procedure was followed after the last run.

2. Optionally, home the pipette head.

3. Select File > Exit to shut down VWorks.

4. Turn off any accessories, for example, pumps.

5. If using an Auto Filling Reservoir, disconnect bottles to prevent siphoning.

6. Turn the main power switch to the off position.

7. Turn the power off on any accessory integrated with the Bravo.


Managing users “Adding and managing user accounts” on page 74


106


Cleaning up after a run “Cleaning up after a run” on page 104

Power connections “Connection panel description” on page 24

Homing the pipette head “Homing the pipette head” on page 183

107Chapter 7: Creating protocolsBravo User Guide

Creating protocols
7 This chapter is for people with technician and administrator privileges. It describes the process of creating a protocol and explains the parameters used to define each protocol task.
Before reading this chapter you should be familiar with the concepts presented in “Performing a run” on page 95.

This chapter is not a tutorial on writing protocols — it provides the basic reference information you need to create protocols.

This chapter includes the following topics:

❑ “About protocol files” on page 108

❑ “An Example protocol” on page 109

❑ “Workflow for creating a protocol” on page 110

❑ “Creating a new protocol” on page 111

❑ “Setting protocol options” on page 111

❑ “Adding and deleting tasks” on page 113

❑ “Compiling and saving protocols” on page 114

❑ “Simulating a run” on page 115

❑ “List of Bravo task parameters” on page 116

❑ “Setting Device Selection in task parameters” on page 146

Chapter 7: Creating protocolsBravo User Guide

108

About protocol files

About this topic This topic provides an overview of the protocol file format.

File format Protocols are created in the drag-and-drop protocol editor. When they are saved, the information is written to a file in XML format. In XML, the elements indicate the protocol’s properties, and text within the markup tags gives the properties’ values.

Most users create and edit protocols in the protocol editor. Advanced users can create and edit protocols directly in XML. The XML files can also be useful for troubleshooting because you can, for example, see which device file is associated with the protocol.

XML example A protocol file viewed as XML is shown below. You can open a protocol file in any browser that contains an XML parser, for example, Mozilla Firefox.


Workflow for creating a protocol “Workflow for creating a protocol” on page 110


An Example protocol

About this topic This topic shows an example Bravo protocol.

Example protocol This example protocol contains two Bravo sub-processes. The first one is shown expanded. It transfers 1 µL from the plate on location 5 to the plate on location 8.

Related information

Configure labware

Bravo sub-process (expanded)

Bravo sub-process tasks

Bravo sub-process (collapsed)


Understanding tasks, processes, and protocols

“About tasks, processes, and protocols” on page 91


110

Workflow for creating a protocol

About this topic This topic gives the steps used to make a protocol and a cross-reference to the topic that describes each step.

Who creates protocols?

People who have technician and administrator level user accounts have the necessary privileges to create protocols.

Workflow

Related information

Step Topic See...

1. Creating or opening a protocol “Creating a new protocol” on page 111

2. Setting protocol options “Setting protocol options” on page 111

3. Creating a protocol process which includes:

Adding tasks. “Adding and deleting tasks” on page 113

Setting task parameters. “List of Bravo task parameters” on page 116

4. Adding user message tasks where needed. “Setting User Message task parameters” on page 140

5. Compiling and saving the protocol. “Compiling and saving protocols” on page 114

6. Testing the protocol with the simulator. “Simulating a run” on page 115

7. Running the protocol. “Performing a run” on page 95


Protocols, including definitions of terms

“About tasks, processes, and protocols” on page 91

Privileges “Adding and managing user accounts” on page 74


Creating a new protocol

About this topic This topic describes how to create a new protocol.

Procedure To create a new protocol:

1. Make sure you have the device file open. If not, open it by selecting File > Open.

Note: To see device files in the browser box, set Files of type to Device Files (*.dev).

2. Select File > New > Protocol.

Related information

Setting protocol options

About this topic When you create a protocol, you need to specify which device file to use. Optionally, you can specify additional information to associate with your protocol file.

This topic describes how to choose the device file and add additional information.

Choosing the device file for a protocol

To choose the device file for the protocol:

1. Click the Protocol Options tab.

2. Double-click the field across from Device file path to open the Open file dialog box.

3. Select the device file (.dev file type) and click Open.

The file path to the device file appears in the field.



“Workflow for creating a protocol” on page 110

Open an existing protocol “Opening a protocol in VWorks” on page 92

Move between existing protocols “Opening a protocol in VWorks” on page 92

The next step “Setting protocol options” on page 111

Device files “Creating a device file” on page 79


112

Adding information about the protocol

You can associate the following with your protocol:

❑ A moniker (short name) to appear in the Workspace list

❑ A verbose description and notes

Use this text to remind yourself or others of details about this protocol.

To add notes about your protocol:

1. Click the Protocol Options tab.

2. Enter values for the Properties.


Compiling and saving protocols “Compiling and saving protocols” on page 114

Workflow this procedure belongs to


The next step for creating a protocol

“Adding and deleting tasks” on page 113


Adding and deleting tasks

About this topic This topic describes how to add and delete tasks in a process.

Adding a task You must always add a task to a process before you can define its task parameters.

To add a task to a process:

1. If the Available Tasks are not visible make sure that:

a. View > Available Tasks is selected.

b. The Available Tasks tab is selected (not Workspace).

c. The All icon is selected.

2. There are various ways to add tasks to the protocol:

Click a task icon and drag it from the task list to the protocol editor window until a vertical, dashed line appears.

Double-click the icon.

Copy (or cut) and paste task icons in the protocol.

Deleting a task To delete a task from a process:

1. In a protocol editor, select a task that is in a protocol process.

2. Press the DELETE key on the keyboard.

3. Click Yes in the Delete Task dialog box to delete the task.

Available Tasks tab

All icon

View > Available Tasks


114

Moving tasks When editing a protocol, drag-and-drop or use cut-and-paste commands to move tasks and groups of tasks.

To move tasks in a protocol:

1. In a protocol editor, select a task or a group of tasks in a protocol process.

2. Do one of the following:

Drag and drop the tasks to a new location in the protocol.

Use the Cut, or Copy and Paste commands on the Edit menu to move the tasks.

Related information

Compiling and saving protocols

About this topic When you compile a protocol, VWorks checks to make sure that your protocol makes logical sense. If there are any errors, they are reported in the Main Log.

This topic describes how to compile and save a protocol.

Compiling a protocol To compile a protocol:

1. Click Compile.

Errors are reported in the Main Log toolbar.

Note: Whenever you start a protocol, VWorks automatically compiles it and checks for errors.

Saving a protocol To save a protocol you must be logged in with an administrator or technician user account.

!! IMPORTANT !! When you edit a protocol, the changes take effect immediately. However, unless you explicitly save the protocol, the changes are lost when you exit VWorks.





To save a protocol:

1. Select File > Save As.

You can save your protocol files anywhere, but it is good practice to create a directory in your VWorks directory to contain your protocol files.

Related information

Simulating a run

About this topic This topic provides suggestions for how to check for errors in a protocol after it is compiled.

Simulating the run After making sure that there are no compiler errors in the protocol, you can check for other types of problems by running the protocol through the simulator. The simulator allows you to confirm that steps are completed and sequenced correctly.

The simulator does not move any instruments. It performs a “virtual run” based on the estimated execution times displayed for each task. You can change the execution times for tasks to make the simulation more accurate for your protocol.

One approach you can use for testing is the following:

1. Run the simulator with the default task execution times and the same number of plates expected for a run.

2. Resolve any major problems with the protocol.

3. Perform a real, dry run with a plate.

4. Use the times recorded in the Log toolbar to edit the task execution times for each task.

5. Run the simulator with the more accurate task execution times.

6. Fine-tune the protocol based on the results of the simulation.

Running the simulator

To run the simulator:

1. Turn the Simulator on by clicking the Simulation is off button on the toolbar.




Main Log toolbar “Overview of the VWorks user interface” on page 28


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The button changes to read Simulation is on.

2. Click the Start button to run the protocol.

Related information

List of Bravo task parameters

About this topic This topic describes what task parameters are and what they do.

Task parameters defined

After you have added a task, you can set parameters for it. Most tasks require you to set parameters. The parameters specify the details of the task. As you set the parameters, the text underneath the task icons change to reflect the new parameters.

Related information The tasks that are available for the Bravo are listed in this table and described later in this chapter.




Task Use the task in this type of process ...

See ...

Aspirate (Bravo) Bravo sub-process “Setting Aspirate (Bravo) task parameters” on page 119

Configure Labware (BuiltIn)

Bravo sub-process “Setting Configure Labware (Built In) task parameters” on page 118

Dispense (Bravo) Bravo sub-process “Setting Dispense (Bravo) task parameters” on page 121

Loop All processes “Setting Loop task parameters” on page 123

Mix (Bravo) Bravo sub-process “Setting Mix (Bravo) task parameters” on page 124

Move To Location (Bravo) Bravo sub-process “Setting Move To Location (Bravo) task parameters” on page 126


Related information

Pump Reagent (Bravo) Bravo sub-process “Setting Pump Reagent (Bravo) task parameters” on page 127

Serial Dilution Bravo sub-process “Setting Serial Dilution (Bravo) task parameters” on page 128

Set Head Mode (Bravo) Bravo sub-process “Setting Set Head Mode (Bravo) task parameters” on page 136

Sub Process (Bravo) Main process “Setting Sub Process (Bravo) task parameters” on page 137

Tips On (Bravo) Bravo sub-process “Setting Tips On (Bravo) task parameters” on page 138

Tips Off (Bravo) Bravo sub-process “Setting Tips Off (Bravo) task parameters” on page 139

User Message All processes “Setting User Message task parameters” on page 140

Wait For User (Bravo) Bravo sub-process “Setting Wait For User (Bravo) task parameters” on page 141

Wash Tips (Bravo) Bravo sub-process “Setting Wash Tips (Bravo) task parameters” on page 143

Task Use the task in this type of process ...

See ...


Creating protocols “Workflow for creating a protocol” on page 110


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Setting Configure Labware (Built In) task parameters

About this topic This topic describes how to set the parameters for the Configure Labware (Built In) task.

Read this topic if you are:

❑ An administrator or technician who writes protocols

❑ An operator who needs to edit protocols

Configure Labware (Built In) task defined

Use this task to tell VWorks what type of labware is used on each location of the Bravo’s deck.

Typically, this task appears first in the protocol.

Procedure To set the Configure Labware (Built In) task parameters:

1. Add the Configure Labware (Built In) task to a process in a protocol.

2. Set the Configure labware properties.

3. Select Display Confirmation if you want to confirm labware placement before the run is started.

Related information

Property Description

Device to use Select the Bravo

1: to 9: Specify the labware that is on this location.


Confirming labware before the run “Starting a run from VWorks” on page 96


Setting Aspirate (Bravo) task parameters

About this topic This topic describes how to set the parameters for the Bravo’s Aspirate task.



❑ An operator who needs to edit the Aspirate task in a protocol

Aspirate task defined

An Aspirate task draws up liquid from a plate or reservoir.

This task can only be used in Bravo sub-processes.

Procedure To set the Aspirate (Bravo) task parameters:

1. Add the Aspirate (Bravo) task to a sub-process in a protocol.

2. Set the Aspirate properties.


Setting up labware types “Setting labware definitions” on page 147



Location Identifies the location either by it number on the deck (1–9) or by the plate name.

Volume The volume of liquid to be drawn up into each pipette tip.

Pre-aspirate volume The volume of air to be drawn up before the pipette tips enter the plate.

Post-aspirate volume The volume of air to be drawn up after the liquid is drawn up.

Liquid class If you have defined a liquid class for this liquid, select it here.

Distance from well bottom (0–20 mm)

The starting or maximum distance from the well bottoms that the tips will be during the aspirate cycle.

Dynamic tip extension (0–20 mm/µL)

The distance (in millimeters) to lower the head for each microliter aspirated.


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Related information

Number of sides to tip touch The number of places on the side of the well that the tip touches after aspiration. The number ranges from zero to four.

Tip touch retract distance The height that the tips move up before touching the sides of the wells.

Tip touch horizontal offset (-5–5 mm)

When the value for this parameter is zero, the tips will move horizontally one well radius. The well radius is defined in the labware database for the type of plate you are using. If you want the tips to touch harder, increase this value. If you want the tips to touch more lightly, enter a negative value.

Well selection Applies only if the Bravo head has fewer tips than the plate has wells. Click the ellipsis button, and, in the Well Selection dialog box, click wells to highlight the wells for aspiration.



Liquid classes “Setting liquid-handling definitions” on page 167


About sub-processes “Setting Sub Process (Bravo) task parameters” on page 137


Setting Dispense (Bravo) task parameters

About this topic This topic describes how to set the parameters for the Bravo’s Dispense task.



❑ An operator who needs to edit the Dispense task in a protocol

Dispense task defined

A Dispense task dispenses liquid into a plate.

This task can only be used in a Bravo sub-process.

Procedure To set the Dispense (Bravo) task parameters:

1. Add the Dispense (Bravo) task to a protocol sub-process.

2. Set the Dispense (Bravo) properties.


Location Identifies the location either by its number on the deck (1–9) or by the plate name.

Volume The volume of liquid to be dispensed from each pipette tip.

Blowout volume The volume of air to blow out when the tips are at the specified distance from the well bottom.

Typically the same as the pre-aspirate volume.

Note: Blowout only occurs in the last quadrant dispensed into for a given Dispense task.



The distance from the well bottoms that the tips will be at the start of the dispense task.

Dynamic tip retraction (0–20 mm/µL)

The distance that the tips should move upwards per unit volume of liquid being dispensed.

You need to determine an appropriate value by trial-and-error.

Number of sides to tip touch The number of places on the side of the well that the tip touches after dispensing. The number ranges from zero to four.


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Related information

Tip touch retract distance The height that the tips move up in addition to the distance from the well bottom before touching the sides of the wells.



Well selection Applies only if the Bravo head has fewer tips than the plate has wells. Click the ellipsis button, and, in the Well Selection dialog box, click wells to highlight the wells to which liquid is dispensed.






Setting Loop task parameters

About this topic This topic describes how to set the parameters for the Loop task. (The Loop task is common to many automated pipettors in VWorks.)



❑ An operator who needs to edit the Loop task in a protocol

Loop task defined The Loop pipette task allows you to repeat a set of tasks within a process.

Procedure To set Loop pipette task parameters:

1. Add the Loop (BuiltIn) task to the protocol process or sub-process, where you want the loop to begin.

2. Add the Loop End (BuiltIn) task where you want the loop to end.

3. Set the Loop properties.

An example is shown below.

Related information


Number of times to loop Enter the number of times you want the tasks inside the loop to run.

(Setting this to 1 is equivalent to not using the loop tasks.)




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Setting Mix (Bravo) task parameters

About this topic This topic describes how to set the parameters for the Bravo’s Mix task.



❑ An operator who needs to edit the Mix task in a protocol

Mix task defined A Mix task aspirates and dispenses liquid multiple times to mix it.

This task can only be used in Bravo sub-processes.

Procedure To set the Mix (Bravo) task parameters:

1. Add the Mix (Bravo) task to a protocol sub-process.

2. Set the Mix properties.


Location Identifies the location either by its number on the deck (1–9) or by the plate name.

Volume The volume of liquid to be aspirated and dispensed to each plate well.

Pre-aspirate volume The volume of air to be drawn up before the pipette tips enter the liquid.

Blowout volume The volume of air to blow out when the tips are in the liquid of the last quadrant after the last cycle.



Mix cycles (0–100) The number of aspirate/dispense operations.


The starting distance from the well bottoms that the tips will be during the mix cycle.

Dynamic tip extension/retraction (0–20 mm/µL)

The distance that the tips should move downwards and upwards per unit volume of liquid being dispensed or aspirated.



Related information

Number of sides to tip touch The number of places on the side of the wells that the tips touch after the last cycle of each quadrant. The number ranges from zero to four.




Well selection Applies only if the pipette head has fewer tips than the plate has wells. Click the ellipsis button, and, in the Well Selection dialog box, click wells to highlight the wells for mixing.






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Setting Move To Location (Bravo) task parameters

About this topic This topic describes how to set the parameters for the Bravo’s Move To Location task.



❑ An operator who needs to edit the Move To Location task in a protocol

Move To Location (Bravo) task defined

This task moves the pipette head to a safe distance above a given deck location. The safe distance is set in the Bravo profile.

Typically, this task is used to move the pipette head out of the way.

For example, move the pipette head to location 9 before replacing a plate on location 1.

The Move To Location (Bravo) task can be used in:

❑ Bravo sub-processes

Procedure To set the Move To Location (Bravo) task parameters:

1. Add the Move To Location (Bravo) task to a protocol sub-process.

2. Set the Move to Location properties.

Related information


Location The x, y location the pipette head will move to.

Identified either by its number on the deck (1–9) or by the plate name. The height above the deck that the head moves to is determined by the z-axis safe location set in the profile.




Setting Pump Reagent (Bravo) task parameters

About this topic This topic describes how to set the parameters for the Bravo’s Pump Reagent task that is used with a Velocity11 Pump Module. A Pump Module has two pumps that can be set to pump forward or in reverse.



❑ An operator who needs to edit the Pump Reagent task in a protocol

Pump Reagent (Bravo) task defined

This task is used to fill or empty an Auto Filling Reservoir.

The task fills or empties the reservoir by pumping for a specified number of seconds or, if the reservoir is on a Weigh Station, the pump stops when the target weight is reached.

Procedure To set the Pump Reagent (Bravo) task parameters:

1. Add the Pump Reagent (Bravo) task to a protocol sub-process.

2. Set the Pump Reagent (Bravo) properties.

Setting the z-axis safe location “Creating a profile for the Bravo” on page 81



Location The reservoir’s location.

Identified either by its number on the deck (1–9) or reservoir’s plate name.

Reservoir mode Choose:

❑ Fill if you want the reservoir to be filled

❑ Empty if you want the reservoir to be emptied

This assumes that in Bravo Diagnostics you’ve set the pump for filling to be forward and the pump for emptying to be in reverse.

Pump speed Expressed in percentage of the maximum pump speed.

Pump on time How many seconds the pump is turned on for.


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Related information

Setting Serial Dilution (Bravo) task parameters

About this topic This topic describes how to set the parameters for the Serial Dilution task. (The Serial Dilution task is common to many automated pipettors in VWorks.)



❑ An operator who needs to edit the Serial Dilution task in a protocol

Row and column serial dilution requires a Series III head

If you are using an older Series II pipette head from a VPrep instrument, you can only use the Serial Dilution task if you have more wells than pipette tips enabling you to dilute by quadrant, not by single-row or single-column. You can recognize a Series II pipette head because it does not have cutouts in the casing.




Configuring the Pump Module in diagnostics

“Configuring an I/O accessory” on page 188


Out-of-bounds plate locations

Typical serial dilutions use single-row or single-column pipetting. This means some locations on the deck cannot be entirely accessed by the pipette head but, they can be used for tip trash and reservoirs.

Serial Dilution task defined

The Serial Dilution task allows you to set up a serial dilution on a microplate using a single task. Configuring the Serial Dilution task settings is performed using a wizard that guides you through the setup process. The end result is a series of Aspirate, Dispense, and Mix (optional) tasks that produce a linear or non-linear concentration gradient in a selected microplate area.

Pipette head and microplate configurations

The Serial Dilution task can be used with the following head/plate configurations:

00230BravoHead comparison

Cutouts in casing indicate that this is a Series III head

Series II Series III

Tip-box stripper pins

If pipetting by... Don’t put plates or tips on locations...

Single-row 1, 2, or 3

Single-column 1, 4, or 7

Pipette head Microplate well number

Series II 8-channel head 96, 384




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Before you start The Serial Dilution task can only be used with a microplate and not a reagent plate or reservoir.

Before you start, make sure the serial dilution plate has the following:

❑ A column, row, or quadrant that contains the starting concentration of a compound to be diluted

❑ One or more columns, rows, or quadrants each containing the same amount of diluent

Procedure To use the Serial Dilution task:

❑ Configure the labware on the Bravo deck.

❑ Set the head mode. The head mode instructs the software whether you are performing a row, columns, or quadrant dilution.

❑ Add the Serial Dilution task and configure the parameters using the serial dilution wizard.

To configure the labware:

1. In the main protocol editor, drag the Configure Labware task icon from the Available Tasks list to the main protocol process.

2. Under Task Parameters, configure the locations. In the example shown, location 3 is configured for the dilution plate. Because in this example we want to change tips between each dilution, location 6 is configured for loading tips and location 9 for unloading tips.

Series II 384-channel head 1536

Series III 96-channel head with disposable tips

96, 384, 1536

Series III 384-channel head with disposable tips

384, 1536

Pipette head Microplate well number


To set the head mode:

1. Because all pipetting tasks can only be used as part of a sub-routine of the main protocol, add a SubProcess task to the protocol.

2. Add the Set Head Mode task to the SubProcess task.

3. In the Task Parameters, select a Head mode from the list.

If you are using a Series II head, select Use all barrels on head.

To set the Serial Dilution task parameters:

1. Add the Serial Dilution task after the Set Head Mode task.

If you will not be changing tips during the dilution series, you will need to add a Tips On task and set its parameters before the Serial Dilution task is performed.

2. In Task Parameters, select the deck location of the plate you are using for the serial dilution. In the example shown, it is 3.

The rest of the settings for the serial dilution are made in the dilution wizard.

To use the serial dilution wizard:

1. Before you start the serial dilution wizard, be prepared to answer the following questions:

Are you doing a fixed volume or variable volume dilution?

Do you want to perform mixing, tip washing, or tip changing?

Will you be starting with tips on the head or off?

Which column, row, or quadrant has the starting material?

Which columns, rows, or quadrants will be diluted?


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What settings do you want to use for the Aspirate, Mix, and Dispense tasks?

2. Click Launch serial dilution wizard.

In step 1 of the wizard, choose whether or not you want to specify the volume and concentration parameters.

a. Specify the information you have about the plate.

Knowing these parameters enables you to:

– Determine the dilution according to a desired concentration gradient. The wizard calculates the necessary transfer volumes.

– View resultant concentration if you choose to specify volumes.

In this example, the parameters of the plate are not known.

b. Choose how the transfer volumes will be determined.

A fixed transfer volume results in a dilution series whose concentration gradient is linear.

A variable transfer volume results in a dilution series whose concentration gradient is non-linear.

If you choose a constant transfer volume, either enter the volume to be transferred in the Transfer volume field or select The volume will be determined by a concentration gradient and enter the dilution factor in the Concentration gradient field.

For example, if the Concentration gradient = 2, then the concentration of the first dilution will be the concentration in the starting column (n) divided by 2, or n/2. The concentration


of the second dilution will be the concentration of the second column (n–1) divided by 2, or (n–1)/2 and so forth.

Note: The upper range of the transfer volume is determined by the capacity of the pipette head and the well volume of the plate.

In our example, we will be transferring the same specified volume for each dilution.

3. Click Next to go to step 2 of the wizard, and enter information about additional operations.

In the example shown, there is no mixing samples or washing tips but the tips will be changed between each dilution. The location to load tips is 6 and the location to get rid of tips is 9.

4. Click Next to go to step 3 of the wizard and select the column, row, or quadrant of the plate that contains the starting concentration.

Note: Only one column, row, or quadrant may be selected.

5. Click Next, to go to step 4 of the wizard, and enter information about the dilution wells.


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Specify the columns, or quadrants of wells that will be used in the dilution.

If you selected I know the volume parameters of the plate in step 1 of the wizard, enter the volume in each well in the Diluent volume field.

6. Click Next to go to step 5 of the wizard to specify and verify information about the transfers.

If you selected I know the volume parameters of the plate in step 1 of the wizard, the final concentration for each dilution step can be viewed in the Resultant concentration field.

To view the information about a particular column, row, or quadrant, click Next transfer or Previous transfer.

If you selected Volume may differ for different transfers in step 1 of the wizard, examine each transfer volume by clicking Next transfer and adjust the values in the Transfer volume if necessary.

7. Click Next to go to step 6 of the wizard and enter the aspirate and dispense property parameters for these tasks that will take place during the serial dilution process.

Note: These values are applied to all Aspirate and Dispense tasks that occur within the Serial Dilution task. The Volume and Well selection fields are not available because this information was entered in steps 2 and 3 of the wizard.

8. Click Next to go to step 7 of the wizard and if you are mixing during the dilution, enter the mix property parameters.


9. Click Finish.

The Pipette Task Parameters toolbar displays the properties of the first step in the Serial Dilution task.

Arrows appear at the bottom of the toolbar. Use these to scroll through each step of the serial dilution.

Executing the Serial Dilution task

VWorks treats the Serial Dilution task as a series of tasks. Each task within the serial dilution is recorded with its own time stamp in the log file.


Setting the head mode “Setting Set Head Mode (Bravo) task parameters” on page 136

Retracting stripper pins before doing single row pipetting

“Retracting tip-box stripper pins” on page 198




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Setting Set Head Mode (Bravo) task parameters

About this topic This topic describes how to set the parameters for the Bravo’s Set Head Mode task.



❑ An operator who needs to edit the Set Head Mode task in a protocol

Set Head Mode task defined

With the Series III pipette head, you can choose to pipette with just one row or one column of tips instead of using all tips on the head.

Pipetting with one column or row allows you to do serial dilutions.

A Set Head Mode (Bravo) task specifies whether all the barrels in the pipette head are used for pipetting or just the outer row or column are used.

This task can only be used in Bravo sub-processes, and can only be used with the Series III pipette head.

Before you start If you are going to use the head to pipette the last row of barrels, you will need to retract the tip box stripper pins on the pipette head.

Procedure To set the Set Head Mode (Bravo) task parameters:

1. Add the Set Head Mode (Bravo) task to a protocol sub-process.

2. Set the Set Head Mode properties.

Related information


Head mode Possible values are:

❑ Use all barrels

❑ Use last column of barrels (limited use of deck locations 1, 4, or 7)

❑ Use last row of barrels (limited use of deck locations 1, 2, or 3)


Retracting the tip box stripper pins “Retracting tip-box stripper pins” on page 198



Setting Sub Process (Bravo) task parameters

About this topic This topic describes how to set the parameters for the Bravo’s Sub Process task.



❑ An operator who needs to edit the Sub Process task in a protocol

Sub Process task defined

All the Bravo’s pipetting tasks (Aspirate, Dispense, Mix, and so on) must belong to a Bravo sub-process. The Sub Process icon can be expanded to show all the pipetting tasks or collapsed to make longer processes easier to read.

Procedure To set the Sub Process (Bravo) task parameters:

1. Add the Sub Process (Bravo) task to a protocol process.

2. Set the Sub Process (Bravo) properties.



Configure labware

Bravo sub-process (expanded)

Bravo sub-process tasks

Bravo sub-process (collapsed)


Sub-process name Enter a name for the sub process.


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Related information

Setting Tips On (Bravo) task parameters

About this topic This topic describes how to set the parameters for the Bravo’s Tips On task.



❑ An operator who needs to edit the Tips On task in a protocol

Tips On (Bravo) task defined

A Tips On (Bravo) task puts fresh tips on the pipette head.

This task can only be used in Bravo sub-processes and only with a pipette head that uses disposable tips (not fixed tip heads).

Procedure To set the Tips On (Bravo) task parameters:

1. Add the Tips On (Bravo) task to a protocol sub-process.

2. Set the Tips On properties.

Related information




Location The location where the tips will be picked up.

Identified either by its number on the deck (1–9) or by the tip container’s plate name.

Well selection Applies only if the Bravo head has fewer tips than the plate has wells. Click the ellipsis button, and, in the Well Selection dialog box, click wells to highlight which tips in the tip box will be picked up.




Setting Tips Off (Bravo) task parameters

About this topic This topic describes how to set the parameters for the Bravo’s Tips Off task.



❑ An operator who needs to edit the Tips Off task in a protocol

Tips Off (Bravo) task defined

A Tips Off (Bravo) task removes the pipette tips from the pipette head.

This task can only be used in Bravo sub-processes and only with a pipette head that uses disposable tips (not fixed tip heads).

Procedure To set the Tips Off (Bravo) task parameters:

1. Add the Tips Off (Bravo) task to a protocol sub-process.

2. Set the Tips Off properties.

Related information




Location The location where the tips will be dropped.


Well selection Applies only if the Bravo head has fewer tips than the plate has wells. Click the ellipsis button, and, in the Well Selection dialog box, click wells to highlight where in the tip box or tip trash the discarded tips will be placed.




140

Setting User Message task parameters

About this topic This topic describes how to set the parameters for the User Message task.



❑ An operator who needs to edit the User Message task in a protocol

User Message task defined

The administrator or technician who creates a protocol can add User Message tasks to provide reminders to the operator. The reminders are in the form of messages that appear on the screen at the appropriate time and pause the protocol until acknowledged by the operator.

User message tasks can, for example, be used to remind the operator to empty the waste container, fill a reservoir, or remove plates.

Note: User messages do not appear when running a protocol in simulation mode.

!! IMPORTANT !! Remember to remove all user messages from protocols that you intend to run unattended.

Example In the example shown below, the protocol has a user message that reminds the operator to fill a reservoir.




Procedure To set User Message task parameters:

1. Add the User Message (BuiltIn) task to a protocol process.

2. Set the User Message properties.

Related information

Setting Wait For User (Bravo) task parameters

About this topic This topic describes how to set the parameters for the Bravo’s Wait For User task.



❑ An operator who needs to edit the Wait For User task in a protocol

Wait For User (Bravo) task defined

A Wait For User (Bravo) task pauses the protocol and waits until the user has pressed the go button on the pendant. When the button is pressed, the protocol carries on to the next task.

If the timeout period passes before the user has pressed the go button, VWorks displays a dialog box. The user can choose to:

❑ Abort the task and continue the run

❑ Ignore the Wait for User task and continue the run

❑ Retry the task to reset the timeout counter

Note: Abort and Ignore have same behavior.


Title Name of the user message, such as fill reservoir.

Body Details about the task, such as which locations to fill.

Only show the first time When selected, if the protocol is run more than once without stopping, the task is executed only during the first protocol cycle.




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Usage example You are using the Bravo in a laminar flow hood. When dispensing is finished on a plate, you want the protocol to pause while you remove the plate and replace it with a fresh plate. Use the Wait For User (Bravo) task to pause the protocol. Then, when the new plate is in its location, press the go button to continue the protocol.

You may also want to put a Move To Location task before the Wait For User task to move the pipette head out of the way. See the following example.

Note: The User Message task is another way to insert a pause a protocol. The difference is that the go button is not used in the User Message task. If you have easy access to the Bravo’s computer during a run, the User Message task is a better way to add a pause to the run.

Procedure To set the Wait For User (Bravo) task parameters:

1. Add the Wait For User (Bravo) task to a protocol sub-process.

2. Set the Wait For User properties.

Related information


Timeout (0–1000 s) The maximum timeout is about 16 min.



The go button on the pendant “Hardware overview” on page 17


Setting Wash Tips (Bravo) task parameters

About this topic This topic describes how to set the parameters for the Bravo’s Wash Tips task.

Read this topic if:

❑ Your Bravo is equipped with a Pump Module and a MicroWash Reservoir

❑ You are:

An administrator or technician who writes protocols

An operator who needs to edit the Wash Tips task in a protocol

Wash Tips (Bravo) defined

A Wash Tips pipette task is used with a Bravo to wash pipette tips. It is used with a MicroWash Reservoir.

If you are using a MicroWash Reservoir, this task can also be used to prime the MicroWash manifold.

Procedure To set the Wash Tips (Bravo) task parameters:

1. Add the Wash Tips (Bravo) task to a protocol sub-process.

2. Set the Wash Tips properties.


Location The location where the tips will be washed.


We recommend that you use locations 1, 2, or 3 to keep tubing away from the Bravo deck.

Volume The volume of liquid to be aspirated and dispensed to each plate well.

Pre-aspirate volume The volume of air to be drawn up before the pipette tips enter the liquid.

Blowout volume The volume of air to blow out when the tips are in the liquid of the last quadrant after the last cycle.




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Mix cycles (0–100) The number of aspirate/dispense operations.


The minimum distance from the bottoms of the plate wells or MicroWash chimneys that the tips will be during a wash cycle.

Dynamic tip extension (0–20 mm/µL)

The distance that the tips should move upwards or downwards per unit volume of liquid being dispensed or aspirated.


Number of sides to tip touch The number of places on the side of the well that the tip touches after washing. The number ranges from zero to four.




Well selection Applies only if the Bravo head has fewer tips than the plate has wells. Click the ellipsis button, and, in the Well Selection dialog box, click wells to highlight which MicroWash chimneys the tips will be washed in.

Pump fill speed (0–100 %)

The relative rate of liquid flow into the MicroWash manifold.

This value should be high enough for the washing liquid to just bubble over the tops of the chimneys.

Pump empty speed (0–100 %)

The relative rate of liquid flow out of the MicroWash manifold.

This value should be slightly higher than that of the inflow pump to prevent an overflow.



Related information

Dispense to waste during wash When checked, the dispense step of the wash cycle will take place outside of the MicroWash chimneys. Dispensing to waste provides a more efficient wash than dispensing the waste into the chimneys. However, dispensing to waste takes longer because the pipette head must move more.

Dispense to waste at height (-10–5 mm)

If Dispense to waste during wash is selected, this is the height at which the dispense takes place. For example, if -10 mm, the tip dispenses 1 cm below the top of the chimneys.





Filling and emptying reservoirs “Setting Pump Reagent (Bravo) task parameters” on page 127


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Setting Device Selection in task parameters

About this topic If you are running multiple Bravos or additional instruments from one instance of VWorks, you may need to specify which device you are using.

You can select a device for these two tasks:

❑ Sub Process (Bravo) task

❑ Move To Location (Bravo) task in a startup or cleanup process

If you are using one Bravo in stand-alone mode, you can ignore the Device Selection portion of the Task Parameters toolbar.

Procedure To set the devices to be used for the task:

1. In the Task Parameters toolbar, click the Device Selection tab.

2. Double-click a location or a device name to move it to or from the Locations involved in task list.



147Chapter 8: Setting labware definitionsBravo User Guide

Setting labware definitions
8
This chapter describes setting up the database of labware definitions for the labware that you want to use with your Bravo.

This chapter to is intended for people with administrator or technician privileges.


❑ “About defining labware with the labware editor” on page 148

❑ “Labware editor overview” on page 149

❑ “Workflow for creating a new labware definition” on page 151

❑ “Opening the labware editor” on page 152

❑ “Adding a labware entry” on page 153

❑ “Deleting a labware entry” on page 155

❑ “Renaming a labware entry” on page 155

❑ “Copying a labware entry” on page 156

❑ “Defining labware-entry general properties” on page 157

❑ “Defining plate and well properties for Bravo labware” on page 158

❑ “Inserting an image” on page 161

❑ “Defining labware classes” on page 162

Chapter 8: Setting labware definitionsBravo User Guide

148

About defining labware with the labware editor

About this topic This topic introduces the labware editor, which is used to define labware (plates, lids, tip boxes, and so on) that can be used by the Bravo.

Labware editor defined

The labware editor is the VWorks interface through which users enter information about labware.

You must be logged in as an administrator or technician to use the labware editor.

Types of information stored

Two main types of information are stored in the labware database:

❑ Information about the labware properties

❑ Information about labware classes

About labware properties

Labware has physical properties such as plate thickness, well depth, and number of wells.

With the labware editor, all you have to do is select the type of labware to use each time you set up a protocol.

About labware classes

Labware classes are sets of labware entries, grouped so they are easier to manage than many individual labware entries.

Labware classes are used to restrict which types of labware can be used on which locations during a protocol run. This helps to prevent wasted runs and damage to the pipette head.


Labware editor overview

About this topic This topic gives an overview of the organization of the labware editor’s user interface.

Labware Editor pages

The labware editor has two tabbed pages:

❑ Labware Entries—where labware definitions are entered

❑ Labware Classes—where defined labware is assigned to classes

Labware Entries page

Sub-pages

The Labware Entries page has the following sub-pages:

❑ Plate Properties

❑ BenchCel (Not used for Bravo labware)

❑ Stacker (Not used for Bravo labware)

❑ Pipette/Well Definition

❑ Image

❑ Labware Classes

The sub-page tabs are located at the bottom of the page.

Labware selection box

The labware selection box, which is the left-hand column, is used to select a labware entry that you want to edit.

Labware-Entry General Properties group boxThe Labware-Entry General Properties group box displays the labware-entry general properties whose selections apply across all sub-pages.


150

Labware Classes page

In the Labware Classes page, you create labware classes and assign defined labware to a labware class.


Adding a new piece of labware “Workflow for creating a new labware definition” on page 151

Opening the labware editor “Opening the labware editor” on page 152


Workflow for creating a new labware definition

About this topic This topic lists the procedures that you need to carry out to add a new labware definition to VWorks.

Workflow

Related information

Defining labware classes “Defining labware classes” on page 162


Step Topic

1. “Opening the labware editor” on page 152

2. “Adding a labware entry” on page 153

3. “Defining labware-entry general properties” on page 157

4. “Defining plate and well properties for Bravo labware” on page 158

5. Optional: “Inserting an image” on page 161

6. Optional: “Defining labware classes” on page 162


Labware definitions “About defining labware with the labware editor” on page 148

The labware editor “Labware editor overview” on page 149

Deleting labware definitions “Deleting a labware entry” on page 155

Renaming existing labware definitions

“Renaming a labware entry” on page 155

Copying existing labware definitions

“Copying a labware entry” on page 156


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Opening the labware editor

About this topic This topic explains how to open the labware editor.

You open the labware editor when you want to:

❑ View existing labware entries or classes

❑ Edit labware entries or classes

❑ Add new labware entries or classes

❑ Delete labware entries or classes

❑ Rename labware entries or classes

Before you start You must be logged in with an administrator or technician user account to open the labware editor.

If you are adding labware, make sure you have the following:

❑ Calipers

❑ Two samples of the labware you are adding

Procedure To open the labware editor:


2. Click the Processes tab.

3. Click Open labware editor.

The Labware Editor dialog box opens.


Related information

Adding a labware entry

About this topic The first step in defining a new piece of labware is to add a labware entry for it.

You must be logged in with an administrator or technician user account to perform this procedure.

Before you start Before you add a new labware entry:

❑ Check to see if it is already defined in the labware editor.

Some common labware and some Velocity11 labware comes already defined in VWorks.

❑ Contact Velocity11 to find out if we can supply you with the definition you need.

Velocity11 maintains a large collection of labware definitions and may be able to supply you with what you need.

Procedure To add a labware entry:

1. Open the labware editor.

2. Under the labware selection box on the left of the window, click New labware entry.

3. In the New Labware Entry dialog box, enter a name for the plate and click OK.

For clarity, we recommend that you enter a detailed name for the labware that includes the manufacturer’s name and plate-specific information.

The entry appears in the labware selection box.


Opening Bravo Diagnostics “Opening Bravo Diagnostics” on page 179


“Workflow for creating a new labware definition” on page 151

What to do next “Adding a labware entry” on page 153


154





What to do next “Defining labware-entry general properties” on page 157


Deleting a labware entry

About this topic If there is a labware entry that you no longer need, you can delete it. This topic describes how to delete a labware entry.


Before you start Make sure that the entry you are deleting is not referenced in protocols.

!! IMPORTANT !! If you delete a labware entry that is already referenced in protocols, the link between the protocol and the labware data will be broken and the protocol will not run.

Procedure To delete a labware entry:


2. In the labware selection box on the left of the window, select the labware entry to be deleted.

3. Click Delete labware entry.

4. In the V11Labware dialog box, click Yes to delete the entry.

Related information

Renaming a labware entry

About this topic You can change the name of a labware entry. In general, this is something you might do if you just named a labware type and decided to give it a different name.


Before you start Make sure that either:

❑ The entry you are renaming is not already referenced in protocols, or

❑ If the entry is referenced in protocols, you update those protocols

!! IMPORTANT !! If you rename a labware entry that is already referenced in protocols, the link between the protocol and the labware data is broken and the protocol will not run until the protocols are updated.




156

Procedure To rename a labware entry:


2. In the labware selection box on the left of the window, select the labware entry to be renamed.

3. Click Rename labware entry.

4. In the V11Labware dialog box, click OK to confirm that you want to rename this entry.

5. In the Rename Labware Entry dialog box, enter the new name for the plate and click OK.

Related information

Copying a labware entry

About this topic To save time when creating a new entry that is similar to an existing one, you can copy an existing labware entry. This topic describes how to copy an existing labware entry.

You must have an administrator or technician user account to perform this procedure.

Procedure To copy a labware entry:


2. In the labware selection box on the left of the window, select a labware entry.

3. Click Save changes as.

4. In the Save Labware Entry As dialog box, type a name for the new entry that is different from the selected one, and click OK.

The copied entry appears in the labware selection box.

Related information






Defining labware-entry general properties

About this topic After adding a labware entry, define the general properties of the labware. The general properties describe the type of labware that is being entered into the database and are visible on all of the sub-pages of the labware editor. This topic describes how to define the labware’s general properties.

You must have a technician or administrator user account to perform this procedure.

Before you start You must have added a labware entry that you want to define.

Procedure To define the general properties of a piece of labware:


2. Select the labware in the left column.

3. In the Description text box, type in a description of the labware and any other useful information.

4. For your reference, in the Manufacturer part number text box, enter the appropriate number.

5. In the Number of wells list box, select the number of wells in the plate.

If you are defining a tip box, this is the number of tips that the box can hold.

6. In the Base Class group box, select one of the options.

The option you select determines which labware editor properties are available. For example, when a base class of Microplate is selected, the Length of filter tip/pin tool (mm) property is unavailable.

Do not select the filter plate, pin tool, or lid. These are not available for the Bravo.





What to do next “Defining plate and well properties for Bravo labware” on page 158


158

Defining plate and well properties for Bravo labware

About this topic This topic describes the parameters used to define a plate or other piece of labware in the Plate Properties sub-page of the labware editor.

You must have a technician or administrator user account to perform this procedure.

About defining plate and well properties for the Bravo

Many of the labware properties that you see in the labware editor do not apply to the Bravo.

For example, none of the properties on the BenchCel or Stacker sub-pages apply.

Defining plate properties

To define plate and well properties:



3. Click the Plate Properties sub-page tab of the labware editor.

4. Enter a value for the Thickness of the plate.

This is the distance, in millimeters, from the bottom surface of the plate to the top surface of the plate.

For a tip box, this is the distance from the bottom surface of the box to the top of the tips.

Using calipers, we recommend that you make several measurements and then take the average.

5. Click the Pipette/Well Definition sub-page tab of the labware editor.

6. Enter the values for the available parameters according to the type of plate or labware you are defining.

The properties on this sub-page are described in the following screenshot and table.

Note: Use calipers to carefully measure the labware you are defining in the labware editor.

7. Click Save changes.

Vstackplate and stacking thickness00022

Plate Thickness



Well volume Maximum volume of fluid for one well, in microliters

Well depth Distance from the top of the plate to the bottom of the well, in millimeters

Well diameter If round wells, diameter of the well, if square wells, side-to-side width, in millimeters.

Well Geometry Shape of the wells.

Options are Round or Square.

Well-Bottom Shape Shape of the well bottoms.

Options are Rounded, Flat, or V-Shaped.

Row-wise teachpoint to well

Distance from the teachpoint to the center of the A1 well along the row (lettered) axis towards the edge of the plate, in millimeters.

This setting should be 0 mm for standard 96-well plates, 2.25 mm for standard 384-well plates, and 3.375 mm for 1536-well plates.

!! DAMAGE HAZARD !! If you are using labware definitions set up previously for a VPrep, make sure that this value is set to 0 (96 wells) or 2.25 (384 wells). The value for the VPrep labware definition may be quite different.

Column-wise teachpoint to well

Distance from the teachpoint to the center of the A1 well along the column (numbered) axis towards the edge of the plate, in millimeters.


!! DAMAGE HAZARD !! If you are using labware definitions set up previously for a VPrep, make sure that this value is set to 0 (96 wells) or 2.25 (384 wells). The value for the VPrep labware definition may be quite different.


160

Related information

Row-wise well to well Distance from well-center to well-center in the row (lettered) axis, in millimeters.


Column-wise well to well

Distance from well-center to well-center in the column (numbered) axis, in millimeters.


Tip Parameters Select the Velocity11 tip box.

Capacity and length of the disposable tips. These parameters only apply if the base class is Tip box.


A

B

C

D

E

F

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Column-wise axis

Row

-wis

eax

is





What to do next Optional: “Inserting an image” on page 161


Inserting an image

About this topic To make it easier for operators to identify a labware type, you can insert an image of it in the labware editor.

This topic describes how to link an image of the labware to the Image sub-page of the labware editor.

Before you start Make sure that the image file you want to add is in the JPG, GIF, or BMP format.

Procedure To insert an image:



3. Click the Image sub-page tab of the labware editor.

4. Click the ellipsis button (...), and browse to the folder location of the image file.

5. Double-click the image file.

The image appears below in the user interface.






What to do next Optional: “Defining labware classes” on page 162


162

Defining labware classes

About this topic This topic explains how to set up labware classes. Labware classes contain labware entries.

About labware classes

When you create the Bravo device file, you can associate labware classes with each location to indicate what labware can (and cannot) be used on that location. For example, if you have a Microplate Vacuum Alignment station, you may want to set up a labware class from which tube racks are excluded. (Most types of tube racks will cause an error on the Microplate Vacuum Alignment station).

Out-of-the-box, VWorks is provided with six labware classes already defined:

❑ Uses Filter Platepad

❑ Uses Standard Platepad

❑ Uses Taller Plate

❑ Uses Tip Box

❑ Uses Vacuum Delidder

❑ Uses Vacuum Platepad

Initially you may choose to use only these supplied classes. However, if you are using an accessory, you may want to create a new class to restrict the type of labware that can be used on that accessory.

Two places to define classes

You can view and define which plate types are associated with which labware classes in:

❑ The Labware Classes page

❑ The Labware Classes sub-page of the Labware Entries page

These views present the same information in different ways.

About the Labware Classes page

In the Labware Classes page, if you select a class in the labware selection box on the left, the plate types that are members of that class are displayed in the far right-hand column.


About the Labware Classes sub-page

In the Labware Classes sub-page, if you select a type of plate in the labware entry box on the left, the far right-hand column displays the classes that it is a member of.


164

Procedure To add a labware class:


2. In the Labware Classes page, click New labware class.

3. In the New Labware Class dialog box, enter a name for the labware class and click OK.

The class appears in the list of labware classes.

To associate a type of plate with a labware class:


2. In the Labware Classes page or Labware Classes sub-page, select an item from the middle column.

3. Click > to move the labware entries or labware classes to the right-hand column.

To select more than one item, use SHIFT-click or CTRL + click. If you want to move all entries, click > >.

4. Either:

Click Save Changes to save your changes.


If you are in the Labware Classes page, you can click Save Changes As to save as a new labware class.






166

167Chapter 9: Setting liquid-handling definitionsBravo User Guide

Setting liquid-handling definitions
9
This chapter is for people with administrator or technician privileges who write protocols for the Bravo. The chapter describes how to view and set up liquid classes that determine how liquids are pipetted.


❑ “About the liquid library editor” on page 168

❑ “Opening the liquid library editor” on page 170

❑ “Creating a liquid class” on page 171

❑ “Performing an accuracy calibration” on page 173

Chapter 9: Setting liquid-handling definitionsBravo User Guide

168

About the liquid library editor

About this topic This topic introduces the liquid library editor, which is used to define liquid classes (pipetting properties for liquids).

Liquid library editor defined

The liquid library editor is a dialog box through which users with technician or administrator privileges can enter values for properties that affect pipetting speed, accuracy, and precision.

Default liquid library entries

When installing VWorks 4, you may have elected to install the default liquid library entries. These entries are provided as examples and thus may only approximate your particular reagents. For the best performance, you should create your own liquid library definitions.

Liquid classes defined

The values entered into the liquid library editor can be saved as a collection, known as a liquid class. Using liquid classes saves time when writing protocols because you do not have to enter values for the liquid properties every time you create a protocol.

Liquid library database defined

The data that represents a liquid class is saved to the liquid library database, which is maintained in the Windows registry.

Using a liquid class When preparing for a protocol run, you select the liquid class that you want to use. Then, during the run, the liquid class values are referenced for pipetting operations.

Calibrating the Bravo

The liquid library editor also has an equation editor that can be used to calibrate the Bravo.


Liquid Library Editor dialog box

A screenshot of the liquid library editor is shown below.


Adding a new liquid class “Creating a liquid class” on page 171

Accuracy calibration “Performing an accuracy calibration” on page 173

Opening the liquid library editor “Opening the liquid library editor” on page 170


170

Opening the liquid library editor

About this topic This topic explains how to open the liquid library editor.

You open the liquid library editor when you want to:

❑ View the properties that are defined for a liquid class

❑ Edit the properties that are defined for a liquid class

❑ Add new liquid classes

You must be logged in as an administrator or technician to open the liquid library editor.

Procedure To open the liquid library editor from VWorks:


2. Click the Processes tab.

3. Click Open liquid library.

The Liquid Library Editor opens.


Creating a new liquid class entry “Creating a liquid class” on page 171

The liquid library editor “About the liquid library editor” on page 168

Opening Bravo Diagnostics “Opening Bravo Diagnostics” on page 179


Creating a liquid class

About this topic This topic describes how to create a liquid class using the liquid library editor.


Types of liquid classes to create

You may want to create different classes for different:

❑ Types of liquids

For example, water versus DMSO

❑ Volumes of liquids

For example, 1 µL versus 200 µL

❑ Liquid operations

For example, washing versus mixing

Liquid compatibility !! INJURY HAZARD !! Velocity11 products are intended to be used with non-hazardous aqueous liquids. Please contact Velocity11 before using any non-aqueous solvents or solvents generally considered to be hazardous.

Procedure To create a liquid class:

1. Open the liquid library editor.

2. Click New liquid entry.

3. In the New Liquid Entry dialog box, enter a name for the liquid class and click OK.

4. Optionally, in the text box at the top right, type a note describing the liquid library entry for your records.

5. Enter values for the aspirate properties.

The following table describes these properties.

Note: The upper limits for some of the properties may not be achievable for the Bravo.

Aspirate property Definition

Velocity Specifies the speed of the aspiration stroke, in microliters per second.

Acceleration Specifies acceleration during the aspiration stroke, in microliters per second squared.

Post-aspirate delay Specifies the time the pipettor waits after aspiration is complete before moving the tips out of the wells, in milliseconds.


172

6. Click the Dispense tab and enter values for the dispense properties.

The following table describes these properties.


The changes are now stored in the liquid library database.

Related information

Z-axis velocity into wells Specifies how fast the pipettor moves as the tips enter the wells, in millimeters per second.

Z-axis acceleration into wells Specifies the acceleration of the pipettor as the tips move into the wells, in millimeters per second squared.

Z-axis velocity out of wells Specifies how fast the tips leave the wells, in millimeters per second.

Z-axis acceleration out of wells Specifies the acceleration of the pipettor as the tips move out of the wells, in millimeters per second squared.

Aspirate property Definition

Dispense property Definition

Velocity Specifies the maximum speed of the dispensing stroke, in microliters per second.

Acceleration Specifies acceleration during the dispensing stroke, in microliters per second squared.

Post-dispense delay Specifies the time the pipettor waits after the dispense stroke before moving the tips out of the wells, in milliseconds.

Z-axis velocity into wells Specifies how fast the pipettor moves as the tips enter the wells, in millimeters per second.

Z-axis acceleration into wells Specifies the acceleration of the pipettor as the tips enter the wells, in milliliters per second squared.

Z-axis velocity out of wells Specifies how fast the pipettor moves as the tips leave the wells, in millimeters per second.

Z-axis acceleration out of wells Specifies the acceleration of the pipettor as the tips leave the wells, in millimeters per second squared.


Opening the liquid library editor “Opening the liquid library editor” on page 170


Performing an accuracy calibration

About this topic This topic describes how to improve the accuracy of Bravo pipetted volumes by:

❑ Calibrating the pipettor

❑ Plotting the actual volume dispensed as a function of the set volume set to dispense

❑ Calculating the polynomial coefficients of the plot

❑ Entering the coefficients into the liquid library equation editor

Do you need to calibrate your pipettor?

Pipetting accuracy is the ability to dispense an absolute volume of liquid. In practice, the volume that is actually dispensed by a pipettor may be different from the dispense volume that you select. This difference is the absolute error.

In some protocols, as long as you dispense an excess of liquid, the actual volume pipetted is not important. In other protocols, pipetting accuracy can be a critical factor. You must remember, though, that every step of an experiment has error and there is no point taking the time to improve the accuracy of pipetting to four significant figures if another step in your protocol has error at the third significant figure.

If you are sure that the overall error of the experiment is limited by pipetting accuracy, and error at this number of significant figures makes a practical difference to your interpretation of the data, consider performing an accuracy calibration.

Method overview This section gives an overview of the method you can use to measure pipetting accuracy. It does not give a detailed procedure because that depends on exactly how you choose to conduct the experiment.

To calibrate a pipettor, an independent method of measuring dispensed volume is required. One method is to dispense a solution of fluorescein dye and measure the fluorescence emitted from each plate well.

!! IMPORTANT !! Whichever method you use, verify that the error of the detection method is significantly smaller than the pipetting error. Otherwise, the error you detect may be due to the detection method and not the pipetting error.

The overall method is:

Calibrating a pipettor “Performing an accuracy calibration” on page 173

The liquid library editor “About the liquid library editor” on page 168



174

1. Perform a series of pipetting operations in which different volumes are pipetted.

2. Measure the volumes of dispensed liquid using the independent measuring method.

3. In a spreadsheet program, tabulate the dispense volumes that you set in the software against the measured volumes.

4. Plot a graph, with the set dispense volume on the y-axis and measured dispense volume on the x-axis.

The plot will be a curve, reflecting the fact that absolute error is a function of the magnitude of the measurement.

5. Use the statistical functions of the spreadsheet program to fit a curve to the data.

Your result may look like this:

The dashed line is a reference line, where the set dispense volume equals the measured dispense volume. The equation is the polynomial for the line, calculated by the spreadsheet program.

6. Enter the curve information into the equation editor of the liquid library editor.

If you repeat the experiment, you will find that the curve is much closer to a straight line. This is because the equation you entered adjusts the action of the servo motor that determines aspirate and dispense volumes, thereby calibrating the dispense.

Using the equation editor

The equation editor in the liquid library editor is where you enter the calibration curve data to correct for pipetting inaccuracy.

To enter a polynomial into the equation editor:

1. Open the liquid library editor.

2. Click the Equation tab to display the equation editor.

y = 9E-05x + 0.0027x + 1.0176x - 0.12373 2

45

40

35

30

25

20

15

10

0

5

5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45

Mea

sure

d D

isp

ense

Vo

lum

e (µ

L)

Set Dispense Volume (µL)


3. In the Highest order text box, enter the value for the highest order of the polynomial.

This is the largest exponent in the equation and tells you how many terms are in the equation. For example, if the highest order of the polynomial is 3, the equation will have the general form: y = a + bx + cx2 + dx3, where ‘x’ is the volume specified by any pipettor task that uses this liquid class. With an exponent of three, four rows are added to the equation editor table.

4. In the Coefficient/Term table, in turn, enter the coefficient and exponent for each of the terms in the equation, starting with the zero order term.

To enter a value, single-click the Coefficient table row twice. Note that the exponents are already entered for you and cannot be edited.

The following example is for the curve displayed in the graph above.



176

177Chapter 10: Using Bravo DiagnosticsBravo User Guide

Using Bravo Diagnostics
10
This chapter explains how to use diagnostics software to control the Bravo.

We recommend that only administrators and experienced personnel use the procedures in this chapter to diagnose errors with the Bravo.


❑ “About diagnostics” on page 178

❑ “Opening Bravo Diagnostics” on page 179

❑ “About the Jog/Teach page” on page 180

❑ “Homing the pipette head” on page 183

❑ “Moving the pipette head manually” on page 184

❑ “Jogging the pipette head” on page 185

❑ “Changing the pipette head speed” on page 186

❑ “Using the Move and Approach commands” on page 187

❑ “Configuring an I/O accessory” on page 188

❑ “Performing commands using Bravo Diagnostics” on page 190

❑ “Managing profiles” on page 192

Chapter 10: Using Bravo DiagnosticsBravo User Guide

178

About diagnostics

About this topic This topic briefly describes the uses of Bravo Diagnostics.

Background Diagnostics software is used for:

❑ Creating profiles. These are files that contain communication, head type, and teachpoint settings that VWorks uses to execute protocols. At least one profile is required for each head type used on the Bravo.

❑ Set teachpoints. These are instructions that tell the pipette heads exactly where to move with a particular piece of labware to perform a task.

❑ Configure plate locations. These are settings specific to a plate location accessory. For example, if you have a Pump Module installed, this is where you set the flow directions.

❑ Executing individual tasks. Unlike in a protocol where commands are scheduled to execute in the future, in diagnostics commands are carried out immediately. Executing individual processes is useful for working out parameters for a protocol, doing one-time operations, and troubleshooting.

Types of diagnostics software

Other instruments and robots manufactured by Velocity11 include their own diagnostics software. You can find instructions for using this software in the relevant user guide.


Setting teachpoints “Editing teachpoints” on page 84

Performing real-time operations

“Performing commands using Bravo Diagnostics” on page 190

Creating and editing profiles ❑ “About profiles” on page 80





Opening Bravo Diagnostics

About this topic This topic describes two equivalent methods for opening Bravo Diagnostics.

Procedure 1 To open Bravo diagnostics:

1. Click Diagnostics on the Control toolbar.

2. In the device file’s window, select the Bravo.

3. Click Device diagnostics located at the bottom of the window.

The Bravo’s Diagnostics dialog box opens.

Procedure 2 To open Bravo diagnostics:

1. Click the Device File tab.

2. Select the Bravo from the Devices toolbar.

Expand the general name of the device, if necessary.

3. Click Device diagnostics located at the bottom of the Devices toolbar.

The Bravo’s Diagnostics dialog box opens.


180

Related information

About the Jog/Teach page

About this topic This topic briefly describes the features of the Jog/Teach diagnostics page.

Contents of the Jog/Teach page

The Jog/Teach page enables you to:

❑ Control the Bravo’s motion

❑ Define and edit teachpoints

❑ Home the pipette head and adjust its speed

❑ Moving the pipette head incrementally in each of its axes

❑ View real-time location of each axis

❑ Change labware settings


Diagnostics “About diagnostics” on page 178

Jog/Teach page “About the Jog/Teach page” on page 180

IO/Configuration page “Configuring an I/O accessory” on page 188

Tasks page “Performing commands using Bravo Diagnostics” on page 190

Profiles page ❑ “About profiles” on page 80




The Bravo visual display

The Bravo display provides a visual way to control the Bravo and monitor the pipette head’s movement. The plate location filled with color indicates the location of the pipette head. You can move the head in real time by right-clicking on a location and selecting a command. Hold the cursor over a location to display a tooltip indicating the deck location number.

Typically, the display is used for moving the pipette head and defining teachpoints.

Pipette head control procedures

The following are procedures you can perform from the Jog/Teach page:

Procedure See...

Home the pipette head “Homing the pipette head” on page 183

Disable all pipette head motors “Moving the pipette head manually” on page 184

Edit teachpoints “Editing teachpoints” on page 84


182

Pipette head axes You can control the pipette head’s movement in four directions:

Related information

Change the speed of the pipette head “Changing the pipette head speed” on page 186

Jog the pipette head “Jogging the pipette head” on page 185

Procedure See...

Axis Description

X The horizontal distance (left-to-right) in millimeters, along the rail from the x-axis home position.

Y The horizontal distance (front-to-back), in millimeters, along the rail from the y-axis home position.

Z The vertical distance, in millimeters, from the z-axis home position.

W The vertical distance, in microliters, from the w-axis home position.


Diagnostics “About diagnostics” on page 178


IO/Configuration page “Configuring an I/O accessory” on page 188

Tasks page “Performing commands using Bravo Diagnostics” on page 190

Profiles page ❑ “About profiles” on page 80



The four axes of the Bravo instrument



Homing the pipette head

About this topic This topic describes when and how to home the pipette head.

About homing and sending home

Homing

The pipette head has a defined “home” position for each axis of motion. Homing sends the pipette head to the home position for that axis or axes. Home the pipette head to reset the axes. For example, if you notice the Bravo is not moving to locations or teach points accurately, home the pipette head.

Homing the pipette head is typically done automatically on first initialization after start up.

Sending home

Move the pipette head home when you want to move it to a safe position or out of the way.

There are four homing axes.

Homing the pipette head

!! INJURY HAZARD !! Keep away from the Bravo when the pipette head is moving or about to move, especially in the z-axis direction. The pipette head’s z-axis motor is particularly powerful. It might not stop immediately in a collision and a pipette tip could pierce your hand.

To home the pipette head:

1. Open the Bravo Diagnostics dialog box and click the Jog/Teach tab.

2. To home the pipette head for all axes, click Home XYZ.

The pipette head homes.

The axis order of homing is z—> x—> y.

Note: You can also home the pipette head in a single axis by clicking Home axis. Make sure to home the z-axis first to make sure that the pipette head avoids the labware.

Homing in this axis...

Moves the...

X Pipette head to its home position in the horizontal left-right axis. This position is near the middle of the x-axis range.

Y Pipette head to its home position for the horizontal forward-backward axis. This position is near the middle of the y-axis range.

Z Pipette head to its home position in the vertical up-down axis. This position is near the top of the z-axis range.

W Internal pipette head to its home position in the vertical aspirate-dispense axis. This position is near the low-to-mid w-axis range.


184

Related information

Moving the pipette head manually

About this topic This topic describes how to move the pipette head in manual mode. You can move the pipette head manually in the x and y axes, but first you must disable all servo motors.

Move the pipette head manually when you want to position the pipette head by eye where you want. This is useful when you are creating a new teachpoint.

For example, you could move the pipette head to the general location and then use jogging to refine position.

Procedure To move the pipette head manually:

1. Press the red, raised button on the pendant.

This disables the Bravo’s motors so that it is save to move the pipette head by hand.

!! DAMAGE HAZARD !! Moving the pipette head in any of its axes without first disabling the servos could damage the pipette head’s motors.

2. Move the pipette head’s x and y axes manually.

3. When you are finished moving the pipette head, release the disable button by turning it clockwise.

Related information



Changing the pipette head “Removing pipette heads” on page 195


Teachpoints “Editing teachpoints” on page 84



Moving the pipette head using diagnostics software

“Jogging the pipette head” on page 185


Jogging the pipette head

About this topic Jog the pipette head when you need to move it in small increments.

You can jog the pipette head in the x, y, z, or w axes.

Jogging is useful when creating teachpoints. For example, you could move the pipette head manually to a position you want to set as a teachpoint. After you have re-enabled the pipette head’s servos, you can fine tune the pipette head’s position by jogging it.

Jogging the pipette head

!! DAMAGE HAZARD !! Before you jog the pipette head, make sure that there is nothing that the pipette head can crash into. Move the pipette head slowly and keep the jog increment small until you are certain that there is no obstruction.

To jog the pipette head:

1. Open Bravo Diagnostics dialog box and click the Jog/Teach tab.

2. Select the increment that you want the pipette head to move by in the appropriate list box.

3. Click a direction button to move the pipette head.

4. Monitor the current position of the pipette head by checking the number in the axes display screens or in the text fields under the Location list box. This shows the number of millimeters the pipette head is from the home position.

!! INJURY HAZARD !! Keep away from the pipette head when it is moving, especially in the z-axis direction. The pipette head’s z-axis motor is particularly powerful. It might not stop immediately in a collision, and a pipette tip could pierce your hand.

Related informationFor information about...

See...

Teachpoints “Editing teachpoints” on page 84


Jog/Teach page “About the Jog/Teach page” on page 180



186

Changing the pipette head speed

About this topic It may be useful to change the pipette head speed when creating new teachpoints or troubleshooting a problem.

This topic describes how to change the pipette head speed in Bravo diagnostics.

Procedure This procedure describes how to change the speed that the pipette head moves in the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis.

To change the pipette head speed:


2. Click the down-arrow of the Speed list box.

3. Select a speed:

Slow

Medium

Fast

4. Click OK at the bottom of the Jog/Teach page for the changes to take effect.



Editing a teachpoint “Editing teachpoints” on page 84



Using the Move and Approach commands

About this topic The Bravo Move and Approach commands let you quickly move the pipette head to any of nine locations on the deck.

Typically, these commands are used when editing teachpoints. This topic describes how to move to and approach locations on the Bravo deck using these commands.

Commands defined The Move command instructs the pipette head to move to the teachpoint for the selected location.

The Approach command instructs the pipette head to move to the teachpoint for the selected location, with a vertical offset equal to the Approach Height for the selected location. This is the height above the teachpoint and is different than the Approach Height set in the profile. The Approach Height in the profile is the height above the labware when pipetting.

!! DAMAGE HAZARD !! Make sure the pipette head is clear of any obstacles that you have not defined. VWorks will display a dialog box warning you of a possible collision if the requested movement overlaps a known teachpoint. The Move-to-Position commands present a higher damage risk to the pipette head, because you command it to move in large increments.

Before you start Make sure that there is no labware on the Bravo deck and that the pipette head has been taught with the same type of tips used in the profile.

Procedure To use the Move command:


2. Select a location from the Location list box.

Locations correspond to the nine available on the deck.

3. Click Move.

!! INJURY HAZARD !! Before you command the pipette head to move, make sure everyone is clear of the Bravo and there are no obstacles on the deck.

The pipette head moves to selected location’s teachpoint.

To use the Approach command:

1. Repeat step 1 and step 2 from the above procedure.

2. If necessary, change the Approach height above teachpoint value.


188

3. Click Approach.

!! INJURY HAZARD !! Before you command the pipette head to move, make sure everyone is clear of the Bravo and there are no obstacles on the deck.

The pipette head moves to the selected location’s approach height.

Related information

Configuring an I/O accessory

About this topic If you have an accessory, such as a Pump Module, that plugs into the I/O accessory connection on the Bravo, you can modify the behavior of this accessory using the I/O Configuration page in Bravo Diagnostics.

You can also clear motor faults and check the head type on this page.

This topic describes the available options on the I/O Configuration page.

Configuring an autofilling reservoir or wash station

Configuring one or more locations that have an Auto Filling Reservoir or MicroWash Reservoir requires the installation of a Pump Module.

To configure a location for an Auto Filling Reservoir or MicroWash Reservoir:

1. Open Bravo Diagnostics and click the I/O Configuration tab.

2. Instruct VWorks which location you want to configure by either:

Clicking the location in the picture display or,

Selecting the location from the Location list box.

3. Select Platepad with autofill... from the Location configured as list box.


Editing teachpoints “Editing teachpoints” on page 84




4. Select the number of Pump Modules you have connected to the Bravo from the list box.

Even though each Pump Module has two pumps, this number refers to the number of complete modules you have connected.

5. Set the Autofill pump module settings:

a. Select which pump on the module you want to use for filling.

b. Select the direction in which the pump must go for filling.

6. Set the Autoempty pump module settings:

a. Select which pump on the module you want to use for emptying.

b. Select the direction in which the pump must go for emptying.

Note: If you need to operate the pump through the Pump Module diagnostics, click Diagnose devices at chosen location.

Clearing motor faults

Occasionally, during use, an error may occur that results in either disabling the pipette head movement or the pipette head motor. When this occurs:

1. Click Clear motor power fault to restore the power and pipette head function.

2. Power cycle the Bravo to ensure proper function.

Head present indicator

If a pipette head is mounted to the Bravo, the Head present indicator lights and the Head type that is detected by VWorks is displayed.

Go Button Use this to make sure that the go button is communicating with VWorks.

When the go button on the pendant is pressed, the Go button is pressed indicator lights.


190

Related information

Performing commands using Bravo Diagnostics

About this topic For development and troubleshooting purposes, you can use Bravo Diagnostics to perform tasks such as Aspirate, Mix, and Dispense. This topic describes how to execute commands from the Processes diagnostics page.

Performing a command requires that you:

❑ Choose a location

❑ Select a command and command parameters

❑ Select labware and wells

Procedure To perform a command from Bravo Diagnostics:

1. Open Bravo Diagnostics and click the Processes tab.

2. Select a location either by clicking on the picture display or selecting one from the Location list box.


Defining labware “Setting labware definitions” on page 147


Troubleshooting motor fault error and power cycling

“Troubleshooting” on page 199


3. Select the labware from the Labware at selected location list box.

4. Select the command you want to execute from the Command to execute list box.

5. Select and/or enter the command properties.

6. If you want to pipette using one row or column of barrels instead of all barrels on the pipette head, select Use a subset of barrels ... and then Single column or Single row.

Note: If you choose Single row make sure to retract the stripper pins.

7. If you are using the head in serial mode or, if your head has fewer tips than the plate has wells, select the quadrant(s) of the plate you want to use.

To select a quadrant, click a representative well.

The selection appears below the diagram.

8. Click Execute command.


Bravo task parameters “Creating protocols” on page 107


Retracting the stripper pins “Retracting tip-box stripper pins” on page 198


192

Managing profiles

About this topic You can copy, edit, delete, or rename profiles. This topic describes how to do these procedures.

For example, you may have a new pipette head for the Bravo. Instead of creating a new one, it may be easier to start with a copy of an existing profile.

Procedure To manage a profile:


2. In the Device diagnostics dialog box, click the Profiles tab.

3. Select one of the options, using the following table as a guide:

Related information

Option Description

Create a copy of this profile

Click to create a copy of the profile currently displayed in the Profile name field.

Rename this profile

Click to rename a profile.

Type the desired name in the Rename Profile dialog box.

Delete this profile

Click to delete a profile.

A dialog message appears asking if you are sure you want to delete this profile.

Update this profile

Click to save changes made to a profile, for example if you have changed a teachpoint for that profile.

Initialize this profile

Click to instruct the software to connect to the Bravo using the most recently saved values in the current profile.


About profiles “About profiles” on page 80

Creating a profile “Creating a profile for the Bravo” on page 81


193Chapter 11: Maintenance and troubleshootingBravo User Guide

Maintenance and troubleshooting
11
This chapter tells you how to keep your Bravo in good working order through cleaning, inspection, and maintenance, and what to do when you encounter a problem.


❑ “Routine maintenance” on page 194

❑ “Cleaning the Bravo” on page 194

❑ “Removing pipette heads” on page 195

❑ “Retracting tip-box stripper pins” on page 198

❑ “Troubleshooting” on page 199

❑ “Recovering from a head collision” on page 200

Chapter 11: Maintenance and troubleshootingBravo User Guide

194

Routine maintenance

About this topic This topic describes the routine maintenance and inspections that you should perform on your Bravo.

Routine maintenance

In general, practice good housekeeping by cleaning up spills and routinely cleaning the Bravo deck and pipette heads after using.

Inspection Although there are no parts on the Bravo that wear out frequently or require regular replacement, we recommend that you periodically perform a visual check of the instrument. Look for corrosion on the deck and plate pads and loose screws and bolts.

When to call Velocity11

Contact Velocity11 Technical Support if you are unable to resolve problems after consulting the user guide or online help.

Cleaning the Bravo

About this topic This topic provides guidelines for cleaning the Bravo.

Cleaning guidelines To clean the Bravo deck and other aluminum surfaces, you can use:

❑ Mild detergent

❑ Ammonia-based glass cleaner

❑ Mild organic solvents such as ethanol and propan-2-ol

❑ Bleach (sodium hypochlorite solutions)

On the white painted surfaces, only use mild detergent, glass cleaner, or ethanol.

Cleaning hazards !! DAMAGE HAZARD !! Do not use harsh abrasives, corrosive cleaning agents, or metal brushes to clean any Bravo component or accessory.!! INJURY HAZARD !! Disconnect the power and communication cables before cleaning.


Routine maintenance “Routine maintenance” on page 194


Removing pipette heads

About this topic The setup chapter describes how to remove a pipette head. It includes information on removing and storing one pipette head.

Be sure to adjust your VWorks settings after installing a different pipette head.

Removing a pipette head

To remove a pipette head:

1. If there are disposable tips on the pipette head, remove them using the Tips Off command.

2. Make sure that the head mount is in its home position above deck location 5. (If it is not, use the Home XYZ command in Bravo Diagnostics.)

3. Power off the Bravo instrument.

!! DAMAGE HAZARD !! Always turn off the Bravo before removing the pipette head. Failure to do this can damage the pipette head’s electronics.

4. Pull out the two head-retainer pins and twist them a 1/4 turn so that they remain retracted.

5. Turn the head lock clockwise until it clicks into position.

6. Tug the pipette head to the left to release it.

!! DAMAGE HAZARD !! Support the pipette head carefully without touching the barrels. Dropping it will damage the barrels or fixed tips.


196

7. Place the pipette head on the pipette-head stand for storage.

Installing a pipette head

Instructions for installing a pipette head are given in the chapter that describes the initial setup of the Bravo.

Adjusting VWorks settings for a new pipette head

After putting on a different pipette head, you need to adjust VWorks settings.

To adjust VWorks settings for a new pipette head:

1. Power up the Bravo.

2. In the Bravo device file, choose the profile for the new pipette head, or open a device file with the correct profile for the new head.

If this is the first time you have used this pipette head, you have to create a new profile.

3. Initialize the Bravo. (Click Initialize selected devices in the device file.)

4. Open Bravo Diagnostics, and in the Jog/Teach page, make sure that a value is displayed for each axis.

This confirms communication between the Bravo and VWorks.

00235BravoInstalling head 1


5. If you opened an existing device (in step 2), go to the IO/Configuration page and confirm that the location configuration graphic matches what you actually have on the Bravo’s deck.

(You may have changed the deck configuration since the device file was made.)


Putting a pipette head on the Bravo

“Mounting the pipette head” on page 67

Executing the Tips Off task in Bravo Diagnostics

“Performing commands using Bravo Diagnostics” on page 190

Initializing the Bravo “Preparing the Bravo for a run” on page 94

Homing the pipette head “Homing the pipette head” on page 183

Available pipette heads “The Bravo pipette heads” on page 22

Location of power switch, head mount


Turning on the Bravo “Turning on the Bravo” on page 71

Changing the profile “Creating a profile for the Bravo” on page 81

Jog/Teach and IO/Configuration diagnostic pages

“Using Bravo Diagnostics” on page 177


198

Retracting tip-box stripper pins

About this topic Read this topic if you are using the pipette head to pipette in single rows.

The Bravo pipette heads have four pins that prevent the tip box from raising off the deck when tips are being applied. These pins are called the “stripper pins”.

If you are performing a task where the head mode pipettes by row, the stripper pins will interfere with this task unless they are moved out of the way.

This topic describes how to retract (and release) the stripper pins.

Before you start Make sure you have a 2 mm Allen wrench.

Procedure To retract the stripper pins:

1. Lay the pipette head on its side so that the barrels are facing you.

2. Insert the end of the Allen wrench into the head of one of the pins.

3. Push the pin into the pipette head until you feel it stop.

It should be nearly flush with the surface. If it is not flush, twist the pin in quarter turn increments, pushing in after each twist.

4. When the pin is properly seated, twist it, no more than 180°, until it locks.

5. Repeat the procedure for the other pins.

To release the pins, insert the Allen wrench into the pin head, twist the wrench to release.

Related information

Tip-box stripper pin


Using the serial dilution task “Setting Serial Dilution (Bravo) task parameters” on page 128

Setting the head mode to pipette by row

❑ “Setting Set Head Mode (Bravo) task parameters” on page 136

❑ “Performing commands using Bravo Diagnostics” on page 190

Removing and installing a pipette head




Troubleshooting

About this topic This topic describes the most common problems and error messages that may be encountered with the Bravo and provides some possible solutions.

Troubleshooting table

Error message/problem Cause Recommended actions

Error message related to communication problems or failure.

Communications are interrupted.

❑ Turn the Bravo off and back on.

❑ Initialize the Bravo. (Click Initialize selected devices in the devices toolbar.)

Bravo device does not appear in the Discovered BioNet Devices dialog box. (Bravo Diagnostics > Profiles > Find available device)

Bravo is not communicating with VWorks.

Re-establish communication by:

a. Clicking Refresh in the Discovered BioNet Devices dialog box.

b. Turning the Bravo off and back on.c. Clicking Refresh again.

If that doesn’t work, try one or more of the following.

❑ Check Ethernet cables between the Bravo and computer (and to and from hub if using).

❑ On the computer (and the hub, if using), check that the link light next to the Ethernet cable is on and green.

❑ In the Discovered BioNet Devices dialog box, check that the Select the Ethernet adapter... list box is set appropriately.

❑ Made sure that the Ethernet firewall is turned off. (“Turning off Ethernet firewall software” on page 62.)

❑ Use HyperTerminal to check that the IP address of the Bravo is set correctly. (See “Changing the Bravo’s IP address to be assigned dynamically” on page 53.)

Head will not come off the head mount

Firm attachment ❑ Ensure the head retainer pins are retracted.

❑ Ensure head lock is in the unlocked position (horizontal). Jiggle head side-to-side as you pull the head to the left.


200

Related information

Recovering from a head collision

About this topic Occasionally, the Bravo pipette head may collide with an accessory or piece of labware on a deck location because the accessory or labware has been misplaced or mistaught.

This topic describes what to do after a head collision has occurred.

Before you start Before you start the inspection of the Bravo, clean up any spills that may have occurred as a result of the collision.

Procedure To inspect the Bravo:

1. Inspect the parts that have made contact for visible signs of damage.

Look carefully for any subtle signs of damage.

2. If contact was made to the barrel or tip:

a. Compare the impacted region to the surrounding barrels or tips.

Dented barrels can affect tip sealing.

b. Replace damaged tips or barrels if disposable.

c. If fixed tips are damaged, contact Velocity11 Technical Support.

Be ready to describe how the collision occurred.

Motor power fault error Problems with the Bravo’s servo motors

Power cycle the Bravo:

a. Turn the power switch off.b. Turn the power switch on.c. Initialize the device.

If this happens a second time, contact Velocity11 Technical Support.

No power to the Bravo even though it is plugged in to a working power outlet.

Blown fuse Use the spare fuse in the fuse holder to replace the blown fuse.

If the fuse blows again, contact Velocity11 Technical Support.

See “Connection panel description” on page 24 to locate the fuse holder.

Error message/problem Cause Recommended actions


Discovered BioNet Devices dialog box

“Creating a profile for the Bravo” on page 81


3. If contact was made to a standard plate station:

a. Ensure the alignment tabs did not become damaged and still allow plates to be easily picked or placed.

b. If the operation is hindered, contact Velocity11 Technical Support.

4. If contact was made to an alignment plate station:

a. Ensure the rollers and springs are not damaged and still allow plates to be easily picked and placed.

b. If operation is hindered, contact Velocity11 Technical Support.

5. If contact was made to other deck locations:

a. Ensure the alignment tabs are not damaged and still allow plates to be easily picked and placed.

b. Ensure the specific functionality of the deck location is not compromised.

c. If the operation is hindered, contact Velocity11 Technical Support.

To verify system components are still working:

1. Jog each axis back and forth and listen for any new noise.

If any new noises are present or if any axis movement is impaired, contact Velocity11 Technical Support.

2. Ensure the Bravo alignment was not compromised:

a. If the pipette head was impacted side-to-side, re-install the head.

b. Attach the correct tip type.

c. Move to the location you taught (usually location 5).

d. Check the alignment of the x and y axes.

If the x and/or y axes are not aligned, contact Velocity11 Technical Support.

Misalignment could be the result of a shift in the x or y screw in their mounts. Re-homing would reset the teach positions correctly but the mounts would still need to be retightened.

3. If the contact occurred in the vertical direction:

a. Attach the correct tip type

b. Move to location 8.

c. Check the alignment of the z-axis.

If z is out of alignment, contact Velocity11 Technical Support.

The tie bar may need adjustment to align the y arm to be parallel with the deck.


202


Removing and installing a pipette head



Checking axis alignment “Editing teachpoints” on page 84

203Chapter 12: Installing VWorksBravo User Guide

Installing VWorks
12 The VWorks application that you need to run the Bravo should already by installed on the Bravo’s computer.
However, there may be situations where you need to install VWorks. For example, if you want to use a different computer to write and simulate protocols.

This chapter includes information on the minimum computer requirements and on installing, removing, and re-installing VWorks.


❑ “Workflow for installing VWorks” on page 204

❑ “Computer requirements and networking” on page 204

❑ “Installing VWorks software” on page 205

❑ “Uninstalling VWorks” on page 206

Chapter 12: Installing VWorksBravo User Guide

204

Workflow for installing VWorks

About this topic This topic outlines the procedures you need to follow to install VWorks.

Workflow The general workflow for installing VWorks:

Computer requirements and networking

About this topic Before installing VWorks make sure that your computer meets the requirements given here.

Minimum system requirements

PC systemAny PC capable of running Windows 2000 or Windows XP

Communication interface

❑ Dedicated 10BaseT Ethernet port (two network cards if connecting to your company LAN)

❑ RS-232 serial port

Monitor

❑ Preferred: 1280 x 1024 resolution

❑ Minimum requirement: 1024 x 768

Related information

Step Topic

1. “Computer requirements and networking” on page 204.

If you are using a computer other than the one supplied with the Bravo, make sure that it meets requirements.

2. “Installing VWorks software” on page 205.



“Workflow for installing VWorks” on page 204

Setting up networking “Installing the Bravo” on page 37

205Chapter 12: Installing VWorksBravo User Guide

Installing VWorks software

About this topic This topic describes how to start the VWorks installer.

Two procedures are given. If you are installing VWorks:

❑ For the first time on the system, use Procedure 1

❑ On a system where a version of VWorks is already installed, use Procedure 2

Procedure 1 To install VWorks for the first time:

1. Insert the VWorks CD-ROM into your CD-ROM drive.


3. Follow the instructions in the wizard to complete your installation.

Procedure 2 If you are reinstalling VWorks or installing a newer version of VWorks use this procedure.

To install VWorks if a version of VWorks is already installed:

1. Exit VWorks.

2. Insert the VWorks CD-ROM into your CD-ROM drive.


You should be prompted to remove your old VWorks application. If this does not happen, you need to uninstall VWorks before continuing the new installation. You do not need to delete the Velocity11 registry files.

4. Follow the instructions in the wizard to complete your installation.



“Workflow for installing VWorks” on page 204

Uninstalling VWorks “Uninstalling VWorks” on page 206

Chapter 12: Installing VWorksBravo User Guide

206

Uninstalling VWorks

About this topic This topic describes how to uninstall VWorks.

When to remove Velocity11 registry files

In general, it is sufficient to uninstall VWorks without removing the registry files. However, you can remove the Velocity11 files from the registry if:

❑ You want to make a completely fresh start with VWorks, removing all user accounts, teachpoints, device profiles, and liquid and labware definitions, or

❑ You do not intend to run VWorks on your system again

Procedures To remove VWorks:

1. Use the Add / Remove Programs control panel.

For more information, see the online help for your Windows operating system.

!! IMPORTANT !! The following procedure deletes the user accounts, labware definitions, liquid library data, device profiles, and teachpoints.

To remove the Velocity11 files from the registry:

1. From the Windows Start menu, select Run.

2. In the Open text box, type regedit.

3. Click OK.

The Windows registry editor opens.

4. Expand folders to select the following folder:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Velocity11

5. Make sure you have selected the Velocity11 folder.

!! IMPORTANT !! Making a mistake and deleting the wrong registry folder may cause critical failures with your operating system.

6. Select Edit > Delete.


Exporting Velocity11 data from the registry files (for example, before clearing the registry)

“Moving or sending registry files” on page 9

207IndexBravo User Guide

IndexNote: You can search our technical documentation on our website at www.velocity11.com/support/support.html.

Numerics21 CFR Part 11 compliance, 26

Aaborting a run, 98, 100acceleration property, 171, 172accessories

Bravo, 20configuring in VWorks, 188setting teachpoint for, 87

accuracy calibration, 173Acrobat Reader, 4Acrobat viewer, 4ActiveX, 26administrator privilege, 110Alignment Station, 20Aspirate task

defined, 119setting parameters, 119

Auto Filling Reservoir, 20Available Devices toolbar, 32Available Tasks toolbar, 32axes

illustrated on Bravo, 20pipette head (robot), 182

Bback view, 19bench requirements, 38Bravo

about diagnostics, 178accessories, 20ActiveX, 26axes, illustrated, 20back view, 19changing IP address, 53changing the speed, 186cleaning, 104cleaning guidelines, 194connecting, 47connection panel description, 24controlling UI appearance, 29creating a device file, 79creating a new protocol, 111creating a protocol, workflow, 110deck locations, 19

description, 16device file, overview, 30Diagnostics overview, 26disposable pipette heads, 22editing a teachpoint, 85Ethernet port, 24fixed tip pipette heads, 22front view, 17fuse holder, 25homing, 183indicator lights, 21initializing, 196installation requirements, 38, 39installation workflow, 40jogging the pipette head (robot), 185layout diagram, 46logging out, 105maintenance, 194managing profiles, 192menus, 35monitoring a run, 101mounting a pipette head, 68moving the pipette head manually, 184pausing a run, 98pendant port, 24performing a run workflow, 96performing commands in diagnostics, 190physical dimensions, 38pipette controls, 181pipette head (robot) axes, 182power entry, 24power switch, 18preparing for a run, workflow, 90protocol files, overview, 31pump I/O port, 25removing a pipette head, 195retracting the stripper pins, 198serial dilution, 23serial port, 24setting protocol options, 111setting up workflow, 66shutting down, 105stand-alone, 51starting, 71status bar, 36stopping a run, 100toolbars, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35



IndexBravo User Guide

208

troubleshooting, 199unpacking, 40using the Approach command, 187using the Move command, 187VWorks overview, 26VWorks user interface, 28

Ccalibration accuracy, 173class, labware, 148cleaning up after a run, 104cleaning, guidelines, 194column-wise teachpoint to well property, 159column-wise well to well property, 160commands, executing in diagnostics, 190compiling protocols, 114computer connection options, 48Configure Labware task


connecting the Bravo, 47connection panel, description, 24Control toolbar, 35copying a labware entry, 156creating a protocol, workflow, 110crossover cable, 58

Ddatabase

copying, 9labware, 9liquid library, 9

deck, 18deck locations, 18, 19default user account, password for, 73deleting labware entries, 155device files

choosing for a protocol, 111creating, 79overview, 30

Device Selection, setting in task parameters, 146DHCP server

defined, 60initialization file, 50installing, 60kit, 51stopping and starting, 61

DHCP Server Kit, 60diagnostics

about, 178changing the speed, 186configuring the Pump Module, 188Jog/Teach page, 180

jogging the pipette head (robot), 185managing profiles, 192opening, 179overview, 26performing commands, 190pipette head (robot) axes, 182pipette head controls, 181using the Move command, 187visual display, 181

dimensions, physical, 38disable all robot servos, 181DiscoveredBioNet Devices dialog box, 62Dispense task


disposing of waste, 11

Eelectrical and environmental requirements, 39email

notification of errors by, 77setting up, 77

emergency stop, 100equation editor, using, 174error messages, 199errors

hardware, reporting, 7message display. see log toolbarsnotification of, 77reporting, 7

Ethernetchoosing as connection, 48firewall, 62installing a direct connection, 58networking requirements, 49workflow for networking with, 52

Ethernet port, 24Ethernet switch, 58event messages. see log toolbarsexecuting commands in diagnostics, 190

Fface plate, 17file format for protocol, 108Find button, 4finding the file, 3firewall

definition, 62passing data, 63program, 62Windows XP, 62

firmware version, 5first login, 73


front view, 17fuse

holder, 25type, 39

Ggeneral properties for labware, defining, 157

Hhardware overview

axes, 20back, 19deck locations, 19front, 17

head mount, 17Home the robot, 181homing the robot, 183

II/O accessory, configuring in VWorks, 188image, inserting labware, 161indicator lights, 18, 21initializing, 196installation

connecting the Bravo, 47electrical and environmental requirements,

39layout diagram, 46space and bench requirements, 38workflow, 40

Installation, unpacking the Bravo, 40installing a pipette head, 68installing VWorks, 204, 205IP address

about, 49checking, 59configuring computer’s, 55dynamic, 50, 62static, 49, 50, 62

IP address of Bravochanging, 53

Jjob roles for readers of this guide, 2Jog/Teach diagnostics page, overview, 180jogging the pipette head (robot), 185

Llabware

adding, 153associating plate with a class, 164classes page, 162classes, about, 148

copying, 156defining classes, 162defining general properties, 157defining plate properties, 158definition, workflow for creating, 151deleting, 155editor properties, 148editor, about, 148inserting an image, 161renaming, 156

labware classes sub-page, 163labware database, 9labware editor

classes page, 150entries page, 149opening, 152

layout diagram, 46lights, indicator, 21liquid library

adding an entry, 171calibrating VPrep, 168changing database, 9classes defined, 168database defined, 168editor defined, 168opening the editor, 170

liquid library editorabout, 169opening, 170

log files, changing location, 78log toolbars, 98, 102

viewing, 102logging in to VWorks, 73logging out of VWorks, 105Loop pipette task


MMain Log toolbar, 33, 102

options for, 103maintenance, routine, 194Manual Fill Reservoir, 20Materials Safety data Sheet. see MSDSMenus, overview, 35Microplate Vacuum Alignment Station, 20MicroWash Reservoir, 20Mix task


moniker, 112monitoring a run, 101motor fault, troubleshooting, 200


210

mounting a pipette head, 68Move To Location task


MSDS, 11

Nnetwork

integrating into existing, 51setting up new, 51

network card, 49, 50checking IP address, 59configuring, 55

networkingconnecting to a LAN, 58multiple VCodes, 59safety, 50see also Ethernet

networking kit. see DHCP server kitNumber of Cycles dialog box, 96

Oonline help, 3opening the labware editor, 152options for log files, 78Orbital Shaking Station, 20

Ppager, notification of errors by, 77passwords

about, 74changing, 73, 74first login, 73resetting, 74

pausing a run, 98PDF guide, 3, 4pendant, 18pendant port, 24physical dimensions of Bravo, 38pins, retracting, 198Pipette head, 18pipette heads

axes (robot), 182changing, 195changing speed, 186controls, 181disposable, 22fixed tip, 22homing, 183initializing, 196jogging, 185mounting, 68moving manually, 184

removing, 195retracting the stripper pins, 198serial dilution, 23using the Approach command, 187using the Move command, 187

Pipette Log toolbar, 33, 102pipetting accuracy, 173plate properties, defining, 158post-aspirate delay property, 171post-dispense delay property, 172power entry, 24power switch, 18powering off the Bravo, 105powering up, Bravo, 71preparing for run, workflow, 90profile

defined, 80managing, 192

Progress toolbar, 33property

acceleration, 171, 172column-wise teachpoint to well, 159column-wise well to well, 160post-aspirate delay, 171post-dispense delay, 172row-wise teachpoint to well, 159row-wise well to well, 160velocity, 171, 172Velocity11 tip box tip length, 160well depth, 159well diameter, 159well geometry, 159well-bottom shape, 159z-axis acceleration into wells, 172z-axis acceleration out of wells, 172z-axis speed into wells, 172z-axis velocity into wells, 172z-axis velocity out of wells, 172

protocoladding notes about, 112compiling, 114creating new, 111defined, 91example of, 109file format, 108files, overview, 31overall process of creating, 110saving, 115setting options, 111simulating, 115understanding before a run, 93what you should know, 93

Pump I/O port, 25


Pump Moduleconfiguring in VWorks, 188described, 20

Pump Reagent taskdefined, 127setting parameters, 127

Rregistry key

emailing, 10exporting, 9importing, 10

renaming a labware entry, 156reporting errors, 7robot

changing the speed, 186homing, 183jogging, 185moving manually, 184

routine maintenance, 194row-wise teachpoint to well property, 159row-wise well to well property, 160run

aborting, 98, 100cleaning up after, 104defined, 92monitoring, 101performing overview, 96starting, 96what happens after, 98

running a protocolworkflow, 96

Ssafety

labels, 11training, 11

saving protocols, 115screen message options, 103serial connection, choosing, 48Serial Dilution task

compatible head and plate configurations, 129

configuring labware, 130defined, 129out-of-bounds locations, 129pipette head requirements, 128setting parameters, 131setting the head mode, 131using the wizard, 131

serial dilution, compatible pipette heads for, 23serial port, 24Set Head Mode task


set up requirementselectrical and environmental, 39space and bench, 38

setting up the Bravo, workflow, 66shutting down, 105simulating a protocol, 115software components, 5space and bench requirements, 38speed, changing, 186stand-alone connection, 51Standard toolbar, 35starting

runs, 96the Bravo, 71VWorks, 72

startup-protocol processdefined, 92

Status bar, 36stopping a run, 98, 100Sub Process (Bravo) task


sub-process, defined, 91switch, 58

TTask Parameters toolbar, 34tasks

adding, 113defined, 91deleting, 113list of, 116moving, 114types, 116

teachpointsadding, 85setting all relative to one, 86setting for accessories, 87verifying, 87

technician privilege, 110tie bar, 18Tip Trash, 20Tips Off (Bravo) task


Tips On (Bravo) taskdefined, 138setting parameters, 138

toolbarAvailable Devices, 32Available Tasks, 32


212

Control, 35Main Log, 33Pipette Log, 33Progress, 33Standard, 35Task Parameters, 34Workspace, 31

toolbarsMain Log, 102Pipette Log, 102

top cover, 17troubleshooting, error messages, 199turning off the Bravo, 105

Uuninstalling VWorks, 206user accounts

adding, 74deleting (cannot), 74disabling, 74editing, 74resetting, 74

user interfacecontrolling appearance of, 29overview, 28

User Message task, 98defined, 140setting parameters, 141

VVacuum Filtration Station, 21velocity property, 171, 172Velocity11 tip box property, 160VWorks

installing, 204, 205logging in, 73logging out, 105overview, 26starting, 72uninstalling, 206user interface, overview, 28version, 5

WWait For User (Bravo) task

defined, 141example, 142setting parameters, 142

warranty, 11Wash Tips (Bravo) task


waste disposal, 11w-axis, 20Weigh Station, 21well depth property, 159well diameter property, 159well geometry property, 159well-bottom shape property, 159Windows XP, 62Windows, registry key, copying, 9workflow

creating a protocol, 110creating labware definition, 151Ethernet networking, 52installation, 40performing a run, 96preparing for a run, 90setting up the Bravo, 66

Workspace toolbar, 31

Xx-axis, 20

Yy-axis, 20

Zz-axis, 20z-axis acceleration into wells property, 172z-axis acceleration out of wells property, 172z-axis speed into wells property, 172z-axis velocity into wells property, 172z-axis velocity out of wells property, 172

bravo user guide - velocity11.com

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