Micro-Fraction Collector

MALDI-Spotter

SunCollect

SunChrom GmbH D-61381 Friedrichsdorf Tel: +49(0)6172-953350 Fax: +49(0)6172-953399 www.sunchrom.de

Version 1.1208.2005 User´s Manual Version 1.12

08.2005

The SunCollect Micro Fraction Collector / MALDI Spotter is covered by a limited warranty. A copy of the warranty is included with this manual. The user may be required to perform routine maintenance as described herein on a periodic basis to keep the warranty in effect.

Information in this document is subject to change without notice. SunChrom GmbH assumes no responsibility for any errors that may appear in this document. This document is believed to be complete and accurate at the time of publication. In no event shall SunChrom GmbH be liable for incidental, special, multiple, or consequential damage in connection with or arising from the use of this instrument.

The SunCollect Micro Fraction Collector / MALDI Spotter is designed for research use only and is not intended for use in diagnostic procedures.

Many of the features of the SunCollect system, including various parts and the control software are the subject of patent applications. The use of these features is reserved for use with the SunCollect system and they may not be used with other systems. This restriction applies, even if the patent application issue is not specifically indicated in this manual or on the instrument.

Use of the SunCollect conveys no patent rights, expressly or by implication, under any patent or patent application owned by SunChrom GmbH, which covers the instrument and control software, any composition or any process. Specifically, but without limitation, no right, immunity, authorization, or license is granted, expressly or by implication, for the process of SunChrom GmbH

Software Modifications: The customer may not disassemble and recompile the software except with written permission of SunChrom GmbH. If there is any modification of the software by the customer, this agreement becomes void.

Limitation of Liability: Except to the extent prohibited by local law, in no event will SunChrom GmbH be liable for the direct, indirect, or other damages arising out of the use, inability to use, or the results of using the software. The use of this software is entirely at your own risk.

SunChrom and SunCollect are registered trademarks of SunChrom GmbH. Other company names and product names mentioned herein may be the property of their respective owners.

2005, SunChrom GmbH. All rights reserved. No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the written permission of SunChrom GmbH.

Printed in Germany.

.

Table of Contents

1 Introduction ..............................................................................................................................1-1

2 Installation ................................................................................................................................2-1 2.1 Receipt of the System......................................................................................................2-1 2.2 Installation of the Hardware .............................................................................................2-1

2.2.1 Connection of Communications Cables ...................................................................2-1 2.2.2 Fluidics Connections................................................................................................2-3

2.3 Installation of the Software...............................................................................................2-3

3 Introduction to the Control Software......................................................................................3-1 3.1 The Main Window ............................................................................................................3-1 3.2 Control of the Syringe Pump ............................................................................................3-2

4 Setting up General System Parameters .................................................................................4-1 4.1 The Setup Window...........................................................................................................4-1 4.2 Setting the Syringe Pump Parameters .............................................................................4-2 4.3 Rack Selection .................................................................................................................4-2 4.4 The Fraction Rack Setup Window....................................................................................4-3

4.4.1 Teaching ..................................................................................................................4-4 4.4.2 Rack Data ................................................................................................................4-5 4.4.3 Enumerating.............................................................................................................4-6 4.4.4 Options ....................................................................................................................4-6 4.4.5 Saving and Write Protecting the Fraction Rack Setup File ......................................4-6

4.5 Verifying that the Needle Strikes the Appropriate Point of the Target ..............................4-6

5 Establishing a Sequence Table and Operating the System..................................................5-1 5.1 The Sequence Table........................................................................................................5-1

6 How to Start Fraction Collection or Spotting…………………………………………………….6

Appendix A Guarantee .............................................................................................................. A-1

Appendix B Spare Parts and Replacement Parts ................................................................... B-1

Appendix C Declaration of Conformity.................................................................................... C-1

Appendix D Specifications........................................................................................................ D-1

iii

1 Introduction

The SunCollect® Micro-Fraction Collection/MALDI Spotter (Figure 1-1) is an instrument which can be used to save fractions from a micro- or nano-HPLC system on a microtiter plate or a MALDI target for further analysis. The heart of the system is a robotic arm that can be readily moved in three axes so that the spotting needle can be placed precisely to the desired position. The system can be fitted with a pump to deliver reagents to be mixed with each spot to prepare the MALDI compatible spots. All operation of the system is under computer control, with the ability to generate and store methods for ease of operation.

Figure 1-1 The SunCollect Micro-Fraction Collection/MALDI Spotter

The SunCollect Micro-Fraction Collection/MALDI Spotter is designed to collect fractions using either a microtiter plate or MALDI target. If desired, a single fraction can be saved in both formats at the same time. When this approach is used, most of the fraction can be collected in the microtiter plate cell and a small volume can be spotted on the MALDI target, e.g. flow rates higher then 1 µl/min. The entire fraction can be collected and no eluant is lost, even if the volume of the fraction is large.

The SunCollect Micro-Fraction Collector/ MALDI-Spotter provides the following features: - Outstanding precision - Simultaneous collection of a sample on a microtiter plate and a MALDI target - Extremely rapid, the probe moves from one spot to another in less than 1 second - It is a compact unit with a small foot print - The spots can be dried very rapidly (option) - The unit is completely biocompatible (quartz needle probe) - Very small, precise spots are possible - Extremely good mixing of the eluate with the matrix creating homogeneous matrix layer - Controllable dosing pump (optional) - It is designed to be easy to use - A “teaching” feature makes to create new “rack files” containing the complete geometry of

targets or microtiter plates - The Windows based control program makes it simple to develop and edit collection

protocols - The unit is easy to service

The superb precision of the system and sample needle design ensure that there is only a negligible contamination between neighboring spots. In addition, the small spot design enables higher sample concentration and therefore very often higher MALDI-MS signals.

1-1

Instruction Manual Sun Collect

The spotter is protected against environmental influences by a transparent plastic shield. On one side, a fan is provided which can be used to regulate an air flow so that the spots can dry more rapidly. This allows for small crystalline spots that provide greater signals when irradiated by the laser. In addition, the time required to evaporate the liquid is minimized; this feature is especially important for sensitive substances.

The targets or microtiter plates are placed on a table as shown in Figure 1-2.

Figure 1-2 Table for Targets and Microtiter Plates

A matrix pump (optional) is provided to deliver the reagent(s) to the eluate that are required to allow for the vaporization of the compound(s) of interest, e.g. matrix solution, buffer etc. This pump is piston driven with a constant speed and a built in syringe with a slider as shown in Figure 1-3.

e

Figure 1-3 The Matrix Pump

Syring

e

Piston driv

1-2

2 Installation

2.1 Receipt of the System

The SunCollect® Micro-Fraction Collection/MALDI Spotter is shipped with the following items: - SunCollect system with an external power supply and mains plug (*) - Plexiglas hood - Matrix pump with an external power supply and mains plug (**) - Instrument control software (on CD) - External start/stop cable for potential free contact closure signals - Quartz needle with holder - PEEK tee with fittings for connecting Micro/Nano HPLC systems from all popular

manufacturers

(*) The mains plug that is supplied with the system is selected to meet the requirements of the area that the unit is shipped. The system is designed to operate from 100 to 240 V and an external transformer is not required.

(**) The system can be ordered as a stand alone fraction collector. In this case, the matrix pump is not provided and the second input of the Tee is capped.

The SunCollect Micro-Fraction Collection/MALDI Spotter is carefully packed to ensure safe arrival at the end-user facility. When the system is received, please check the instrument and packing material. If any damage to the instrument is observed or if any components are missing, a claim should be filed with the shipping company and with SunChrom within three days of receipt.

2.2 Installation of the Hardware

2.2.1 Connection of Communications Cables

The overall circuit diagram for the SunCollect Micro-Fraction Collection/MALDI Spotter system is shown in Figure 2-1.

Figure 2-1 Interfacing the Components of the System

Caution: The rear panel of the system includes terminals that are sensitive to electrostatic discharges. Before connecting cables, take care to ensure electrostatic charges have been removed from your body and all cables, tools, etc. This problem is especially significant if the laboratory floor contains polymeric materials such as PVC, or if you are wearing rubber soled shoes.

2-1

Instruction Manual Sun Collect

To connect the communications cables:

a) Insert the RS-232 cable to the rear panel of the SunCollect system (Figure 2-1).

e

Figure 2-2 Rear Panel of SunCollect S

b) Connect the Syringe Pump

The RS232 cable from the SunCollect system is connectedsyringe pump (Figure 2-2).

c) Connect the RS232 cable to the personal computer.

The RS232 in port of the syringe pump is connected to an RS

Note: Many computers, especially laptops do not hevent, the special converter for USB 2.0 to RS232 ssystem to be used with a laptop computer or PalmAppendix B).

SunCollect systems that are supplied without the matrix pumfor direct connection of the system to the serial connector otwo female connectors.

d) Connect the mains power

The mains power should be between 100 and 240 V / 5plugged into the power inlet of the external power supply.special plug that should be connected to the “Power input” of

ON / OFF Switch

t

RS 232 Input Por

24 VDC Power Connector

For Future Us

r

Fan Connecto

ystem

to the RS232 out port of the

232 port on the computer.

ave an RS-232 port. In this hould be used to allow the

top (see spare parts list,

p include a cable which allows f the computer. This cable has

0-60 Hz. The mains cable is The low voltage cable has a the instrument.

2-2

Instruction Manual Sun Collect

2.2.2 Fluidics Connections

If a syringe pump is included with the system, it will be necessary to connect it to via the PEEK Tee that is provided as shown in Figure 2-3. The syringe needle is connected with a coupling and a quartz capillary to theTeeand the probe needle is also connected to the Tee as shown in Figure 2-3.

PEEK Tee

PEEK Union

Figure 2-3 Syringe Connections

Note: A 250 µL syringe will normally be delivered with the system. If a different syringe is used, it will be necessary to change the value for the syringe diameter as described in Section 4.2.

2.3 Installation of the Software

The software for controlling the collector and the matrix pump is delivered on a CD. The CD includes the instruction manual in printable form as a pdf file.

Note: The contents of the CD-ROM are tested to the latest virus scanning software. However, it is possible that new viruses, worms and other potentially damaging programs have not been completely eliminated. We strongly recommend that you verify the software with the latest version of your virus scanning software before use.

To install the software:

a) Place the CD in the CD or DVD drive of your computer and use Windows® Explorer to locate the setup icon. Double click the icon to initiate the installation wizard.

b) Follow the instructions on the monitor. We recommend that you accept all defaults presented.

Note: It is possible that during the installation procedure the monitor reports that a copy of a file to be installed is already present on the computer. In this event, the message can be ignored, or the new file can be installed.

c) When the installation is complete, the “SunCol” icon will appear on the desktop. This icon provides a rapid and convenient way to start the SunCollect software.

2-3

3 Introduction to the Control Software

3.1 The Main Window

The control software for the SunCollect Micro-Fraction Collector/MALDI Spotter system is designed to be clear, simple to use and very flexible as it follows general Windows protocols. The Main Window (Figure 3-1) contains the menu lists with the various commands and the corresponding icons as well as a diagram that describes the status of each well or pattern. The actual format will vary depending on the collection device(s) that are used. Selection of the collection device(s) is discussed in Section 4.3.

Figure 3-1 Main Window - SunCollect Micro-Fraction Collection/MALDI Spotter System

The application software allows the user to:

a) Establish system parameters

b) Establish sequences for fraction collection

c) Manually operate the system (e.g. Start/Stop the fractionation, move needle to any position)

d) Manually control the syringe (if installed)

3-1

Instruction Manual Sun Collect

The Main window includes the following icons:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

1) Load file for sequence table (OPEN)

2) Unload file for sequence table (CLOSE)

3) Start fraction collection (START)

4) Pause fraction collection (HOLD)

5) Step to next position (STEP)

6) Stop (STOP) and move needle to waste position

7) Move needle to waste position and discard fraction (only active during fraction collection)

8) Start syringe pump (manual, without fraction collection; also active during collection)

9) Stop syringe pump (manual, without fraction collection; also active during collection)

10) Open sequence table editor (to edit an existing sequence table or generate a new sequence table)

11) Setup (establish system parameters)

12) Rack setup

13) Rack exchange / positioning of racks on table

14) Exit

The File and Controls menus include the commands which are typically accessed by the icons

3.2 Control of the Syringe Pump

The syringe pump is controlled by the SunCollect application program. The syringe pump starts automatically when the START command for the fraction collection is pressed. As an alternative, it is possible to start the pump without starting the fraction collection (e.g. to remove air bubbles or to place a new solution in the capillary). Icon 7 can be used to start the pump and icon 8 is used to stop the pump. The operating speed of the pump can be set via the Setup dialog box (see Section 4.1).

3-2

4 Setting up General System Parameters

4.1 The Setup Window

The Setup window (Figure 4-1), which is accessed via icon 10, is used to provide information about the installation and configuration of the system.

Figure 4-1 The Setup Window

The fields on the Setup window provide the following options to describe the system configuration: - Communication Address - set to 7 - Communications Port - Set to the appropriate number (1, 2, 3, 4) of the RS 232 port used

on the personal computer. - DDE-Link - Indicate the format for starting the fraction collection and the communication

channel if the DDE link is to be employed. - Gameport - If a single gameport is used with the system, indicate the role of the gameport,

which can be Start-Input: Trigger-Signal (Autosampler or manual) or Stop-Input Trigger-Signal (Autosampler or manual). If both gameports are installed, one channel can be used for starting the fraction collection and the other can be used for stopping it. If the optional cable for TTL signal is used, only one external start is possible

- Joystick Identification - Indicate the communication link for the joystick (typically 0 or 1) - Dispenser - The flow rate of the dispenser is set for both the manual and automatic

operation of the syringe. The flow rate can range from pL to mL. - Waste -The Z direction position of the needle for the waste container is typically set at 38

mm. This parameter allows for a slight movement to ensure that all droplets are deposited. - Rack Offset – The offset (if any) for each rack can be entered in this field.

4-1

Instruction Manual Sun Collect

4.2 Setting the Syringe Pump Parameters

When the system is shipped, the control for the matrix pump software is configured to be used with a 250 µL syringe. If a different syringe is employed, the internal diameter of the syringe (Table 4-1) must be entered into the control software of the syringe pump.

Volume [µl] Internal Diameter [mm] Flow rate [µl/min] 100 1.46 0.0003 – 4.4 250 2.3 0.00037 – 10.9 500 3.26 0.0014 – 21.9 1000 4.61 0.0027 – 43.9

Table 4-1 Internal Diameter of Syringes and accepted flow rates

Fig. 4-1 Keypad and Display of the Syringe Pump

To set the new value:

a) Press the SET and then the DIAM button on the syringe pump module to indicate the previously specified value and present a cursor.

b) Press the ! or " key and set the desired value.

c) Press the Enter button.

After a manual or automatic change of the flow rate via the SunCollect software, the pump switches to “Serial Control” and remain there until the power shot down.

4.3 Rack Selection

The Rack Selection window, which is accessed via icon 12 is used to indicate the type of racks that are employed with the fraction collector. Typical layouts are shown in Figure 4-2. The SunCollect table can hold up to four small targets (e.g. ABI Voyager targets types 100 or 192) or 2 large targets (e.g. Bruker 384, ABI 4800 OPTI-TOF 123x81 mm or microtiter plates) and combinations of these targets are possible.

The number of targets is entered in the Rack field at the top of the window.

Figure 4-2 Typical Rack Selection Positions

4-2

Instruction Manual Sun Collect

The position number of each rack is assigned by the software with a fixed scheme. Position 1 is the left top, number 2 is the right side, etc.

Once you have determined the number of racks, you can indicate the rack to be used in each position from the rack library in the upper right corner by scrolling until the desired rack is indicated and then dragging it to the desired position with the mouse.

If you want to use two small targets on the left side in the GE Double target holder (option), select 3 for the Racks field and place the appropriate formats in position 1 and 3 Figure 4-3, left. If you want the GE Target holder on the right side, select 4 for the Racks field and place the appropriate formats in position 2 and 4 (Figure 4-3, right).

Figure 4-4 GE Double Target Holder with Two Small Targets on the Left of Right Side

4.4 The Fraction Rack Setup Window

The Fraction Rack Setup window (Figure 4-5), which is accessed via icon 11, is used to define a variety of parameters for a given collection rack. When all the data has been entered, you can save the data as a file with a user specified name and can be recalled as desired.

Figure 4-5 The Fraction Rack Setup Window

4-3

Instruction Manual Sun Collect

There are four parts to this window: - Teaching – Used to define the coordinates for a pattern (Section 4.4.1). - Rack Data – Used to enter plate dimensions, the start position and the direction of

movement (Section 4.4.2). - Enumerating – Used to indicate plate position nomenclature (Section 4.4.3). - Options – Used to define Z axis operation (Section 4.4).

4.4.1 Teaching

The teaching icon (the cross on Figure 4-5) activates the teaching fields (Figure 4-6) and moves the needle from the waste position to the home position.

Note: Wait until the needle moves from waste to home position before proceeding.

Note: The teaching function can be only performed for the pattern at rack position 1 (Section 4.3)

Teaching

Buttons to access first / last position

Figure 4-6 Teaching I: The TEACHING-Icons

The first screen in the sequence is presented (Figure 4-7). Follow the information indicated in red and click the last position icon when programming of the first position is finished.

Figure 4-7 Teaching II: Setting the Coordinate for the First Corner Point

4-4

Instruction Manual Sun Collect

Note: If you are using a microtiter plate, make certain that the needle does not touch the bottom of the plate. The needle should remain at least 1 mm above the surface of the plate to avoid damaging the needle.

The z axis is the last axis to be determined (the software will not proceed until it gets information about the z axis). When you are positioning the needle, make sure that the maximum travel in the z direction is less than 50 mm.

After you have pressed the last position icon, the dialog box will appear as shown in Figure 4-8.

.

Figure 4-8 Teaching III: Accepting the Coordinates of the 1st Point

After the needle has traveled to exactly the desired position, press the teaching icon again. The calculation of the spots/position in the x and y direction will be entered in the appropriate fields.

Figure 4-9 Teaching IV: Entry of the Position Values in the x and y Directions

As a last entry the user inserts the number of spots or cells in X and Y directions manually; e.g. on ABI 100 target there are10 spots in each direction.

4.4.2 Rack Data

The Rack Data fields are used to enter a variety of parameters about the rack itself. The upper six fields can be obtained from the plate.

The Z parameters are the values for z offset and needle position over the target during fraction collecting. The z offset is the value of the height of the needle above the surface when moving from one spot to another. The difference between Z position and Z offset may be 2 - 3 mm for MALDI targets and for microtiter plates depth of the cells plus 2 mm.

4-5

Instruction Manual Sun Collect

With the Option an additional lower position for the needle is possible, e.g. 0.5 to 1 mm, so that small drops can be deposited. In order to get a quantitative transfer a final wait time on the contact position is required depending on the viscosity of the drop. This short period of 0.5 to 1 second will be entered as the touch-down-delay.

4.4.3 Enumerating

Some targets are purely numbered (e.g. ABI 100: 1 to 100) and others use an alphanumeric positioning scheme (e.g. Bruker; microtiter plates: A1 to P24). The first selection of the position is important, in defining determining the direction and the numbering, because otherwise mirror image a false arrangement can occur.

4.4.4 Options

In the options field you indicate how much the needle should be sunk in the direction of the bottom of the target container so that the last droplets will be staying deep in the well. This time should not be too short so that the drops can be quantitatively deposited.

When all the data has been entered, you can save the data as a file with a user specified name and can be recalled as desired.

4.4.5 Saving and Write Protecting the Fraction Rack Setup File

After you have completed and tested the pattern data, the file can be saved. When you save a file, a dialog box will be presented to indicate if the file should be write protected (fixed) to prevent editing accidentally or by other users.

Yes No

If you write protect the file, it can only be edited in the z axis and the only the Touch Down option can be edited.

4.5 Verifying that the Needle Strikes the Appropriate Point of the Target

Caution: During the initial installation take care that you do not tighten the needle side screw as this may lead to breaking of the needle. This screw is tightened at the end of the software installation.

a) Place the desired target on the platform.

b) Move the mouse pointer to a spot with the mouse and push the right button. This will present an indication on the display as shown in Figure 4-10.

4-6

Instruction Manual Sun Collect

Figure 4-10 Manual Approach of the Needle to Define Centrality

This will open a small dialog box with an indication of the spots on the pattern as shown in Figure 4-10. When you press the left mouse button, the probe needle will move to the indicated spot, which will be highlighted with a blue circle so that the user can recognize where the needle is (Figure 4-11).

Figure 4-11 Indication of a Position on the Target

It is useful to manually indicate the position of the four corners of the target or the microtiter plate and to verify that the needle can be driven to them. Small corrections can be performed in case there are slight errors by slightly turning the needle holder in the desired position before the side screw is tightened.

At this point, tighten the screw for the needle and the system is ready to operate.

4-7

5 Establishing a Sequence Table and Operating the System

5.1 The Sequence Table

Automated operation of the SunCollect system can be performed by generating a sequence table. A sample table is shown in Figure 5-1.

Figure 6-1 Sequence Table for Fraction collection and Spotting

The columns in this table provide the following: - Wait - The Wait column is used to indicate if the next step should be initiated by an external

trigger signal (e.g. from an autosampler external start or a DDE command from the chromatography software such as Chromstar) or a manual command via the software (icon 2) at the indicated time (see below).

- Delay - The Delay column is used to indicate if a time delay (in minutes) should be used between the start and the collection of peaks. This command is especially useful if there is a long period of time before elution of the first peak.

- Run Time - The Run Time (in minutes) should be at least as long as the elution time for the chromatographic separation.

- Fraction Time - The Fraction Time (in seconds) is the period for collecting a single fraction. The parameters that are important in determining the fraction time include flow rate and the capacity of each spot on the target or microtiter plate

- Start Position - The Start Position indicates the position where the first fraction should be collected. This parameter is important if more then one separation run should be placed on one target or microtiter plate.

- Rack No. - The Rack No. indicates which rack of the system should be used. Fractions from more than one separation can be placed on a target or microtiter plate. Entry of this data should be placed in the area for Rack 1 or Rack 2 - 4 to indicate on which page or pattern the fraction should be placed.

After entring of the fraction time, start position and rack number, the software immediately determines the last position. The user can then see what the next free position is; and thereby ensure that all spots are used most effectively.

- Toggle - The SunCollect system can collect a fraction on two different targets at the same time. In this mode of operation, a small volume of each fraction can be placed on to a target and the major part can be deposited on a microtiter plate. An example of this approach, the user can perform a two dimensional separation.

5-1

Instruction Manual Sun Collect

This approach is especially useful when there is only a small volume of material that could be placed onto a microtiter plate. If two dimensional separation technique is applied, in the first dimension the effluent of the 1 or 2 mm ID IEX column with a higher flow rate would be collected. With this option, the user can determine ahead of time which of the alternative pattern one should start with.

If this function is chosen, assign different times so that the respective fractions should be collected. A typical sequence table with the use of the toggle function is presented in Figure 5-2.

Figure 5-2 Sequence Table with Toggle Function

5-2

Instruction Manual Sun Collect

6 How to Start Fraction Collection or Spotting

The start procedure is very straight-forward and similar to other common software:

1) Configure first the rack table according to Section 4.3 (Rack Selection) with your desired MALDI target(s) or microtiter plate(s) (Icon 12)

2) Load the corresponding Sequence Table (Section 5) (Icon 1)

3) The color of START-Icon (Icon Nr. 2) will turn from gray to dark red.

Now the instrument is ready to start manually or externally.

Start the system by pressing the START icon (Icon 2) or via a signal from an external device. If desired, you can stop operation of the system by pressing the STOP icon (Icon 5).

During operation, the operator can perform a variety of functions as described in Section 3.1 and 3.2, such as holding the sequence, stop and move needle to the waste position, etc.

Note: The software checks the sequence table immediately during loading and compare to the type of rack(s) that is used. If the data is not internally consistent, an error message will be presented: “Wrong Rack for the Sequence Table”. In this event, please check all parameters and verify that the appropriate rack is placed in the proper position. As an example, verify that the rack number corresponds to the target which is employed (e.g. if an ABI with 100 numerical spots is selected to be used as rack 1, verify that the target is actually in that position).

When the fraction collection is initiated, the system operates on an automated basis and the following precautions should be followed:

1) Close the plastic hood before starting the system

2) Do not interfere with the movement of the needle during operation.

3) Keep hands, fingers, etc away from the needle during operation. The needle is sharp and can penetrate the skin.

6-3

Appendix A Guarantee

SunChrom provides a two year guarantee on the system. The following items are excluded from the warranty:

1) Damage due to inappropriate usage, service or handling

2) Glass and Quartz components

3) Consumables such as needles and damage to the system due to blockages

4) Damage to the Plexiglas cover caused by organic solvents and other reagents that can damage the material.

5) Damage to electronic components due to electrostatic discharges. The rear panel of the system contains terminals that are sensitive to electrostatic discharges (make certain that the operator has discharged any electrostatic charges before connecting cables). The operator should be especially careful if the laboratory floor is made from PVC, the carpet is made of materials which are conducive to electrostatic discharges or if rubber soled shoes are worn.

6) Damage due to water or other fluids entering the inside of the system / power supply. While the spotter and the matrix pump are protected against spray water, the user must be careful to protect the system from leakages and must use the system indoors.

In case of problems, please call the factory for assistance and obtain a return authorization number before sending the system back (Available on the WEB page of SunChrom www.suchrom.de -> Service). When the system is returned, include the return instrumentation document and verify that it has been decontaminated. Systems that are received without these documents will be returned to the user unopened. Return the unit to:

SunChrom Wissenschaftliche Geräte GmbH Max-Planck-Str. 22

D-61381 Friedrichsdorf

Tel: +49(0)6172-953350 Fax: +49(0)6172-953399

e-mail: info@sunchrom.de

Repair to systems under warranty will be performed immediately. Replacement parts and labor be supplied free to the end user. Packing and transportation costs are the responsibility of the user.

A-1

Appendix B Spare Parts and Replacement Parts

Description Order Number

Quartz Needle (360 µm OD / 50µm ID), complete with holder 458-210.201

Syringe with Teflon Plunger 1000 µl (ID = 4.610 mm) 969-195.801 Syringe with Teflon Plunger 500 µl (ID = 3.260 mm) 969-195.805Syringe with Teflon Plunger 250 µl (ID = 2.300 mm) 969-195.825 Syringe with Teflon Plunger 100 µl (ID = 1.460 mm) 969-195.800 Coupling between Syringe and Tee (PEEK union) 603-P-770 PEEK union between syringe and Tee, complete with screw, 2 sleeves and quartz capillary (50cm, 360 µm OD / 100 µm ID)

458-210.210

PEEK tee, complete with screws and 3 sleeves for 360 µm quartz capillary. 458-210.211

Set of Serial cables to connect PC, Syringe Pump and SunCollect 458-210.204

Serial cables to connect PC and SunCollect (for systems without pump ) 458-210.205

External Start Cable for two separate short circuit signals for external start/stop 458-210.202

External Start Cable for TTL-Signal (+5V high) for external start from an GE Healthcare Systems or other systems.

458-210.203

USB 2.0 ! RS 232 Converter 458-210.206

Accessories from GE Healthcare MS Sample Trays Bruker MS Sample Tray 18-1155-99 ABI Voyager MS Sample Tray 18-1149-62

B-1

Appendix C Declaration of Conformity

Name of Manufacturer: SunChrom Wissenschaftliche Geräte GmbH

Address of Manufacturer: Max-Planck-Str. 22

D-61381 Friedrichsdorf, Germany States that the product

Sun Collect MALDI Spotter/ Micro-Fraction Collector

Standards to which conformity is declared:

•

•

•

EMC guide 89/336/EU

Low voltage guide 73/23/EU

VDE0700 (IEC 335, modified, German version EN 60335)

and

Syringe Pump PicoPlus

• EN 61010-1 (1993) + A2 (1995)

• EN 61326 (1997) + A1 (1998) Class A Emissions ; Class B Immunity

The instruments were tested in a typical configuration and the manufacturer has placed the CE symbol on it.

Friedrichsdorf, August 5, 2005

Dr. G. Barka (President)

C-1

D-1

Appendix D Specifications

Instrumental Characteristics Number of Targets Maximum of 4 ABI Targets (100 or 192 spots) or

2 Microtiter plates (384 wells) or 2 ABI100 targets and 1 Microtiter plate (384 wells)

Targets to which the system can be interfaced (ready or adaptable)

Bruker, ABI Voyager 4700/4800, Thermo Electron, Quiagen/SuNyx, Microtiter Plate (96 or 384 Positions) .

Needle Material Quartz; 360 µm OD. Please request information for other materials or diameters.

Time needed to move from one spot to the next one

< 1 s (measured by change with ABI100 target between neighboring spots and 2 mm Z-axis movement.

Resolution of the Axis Movement X-Axis: 0.25 mm Y-Axis: 0.03 mm Z-Axis: 0.03925 mm

Software Characteristics

Number of Programmable Targets 2 simultaneous collection and spotting Number of Fractionation Sequences No limit (dependent on capacity of hard disk) Computer Memory Requirement 2 MB on hard disc (256 MB RAM recommended) Windows Versions supported - Windows 2000; XP

General

Dimensions 36W x 30 (45)D x 26H (cm)

14.4W x 12(18)D x 10.4H (in)

Weight 10 kg ; 22 lb Power Requirements 100 – 240 VAC 50/60 Hz Dosing Pump (option) 22 x 12 x 16 cm; 1 kg

8.6 x 4.7 x 6.3 in, 2.2 lb

We reserve the right to make changes in the specifications, design, comments in the above information or price at any time without notice.