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Used Molecular Devices SpectraMax® iD3 Multi-Mode Microplate Reader

Brief Description:Molecular Devices SpectraMax® iD3 Multi-Mode Microplate Reader​ is a versatile benchtop instrument designed for routine and research applications in life sciences. It integrates three core detection modes—absorbance, fluorescence,

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Detailed Introduction

The Molecular Devices SpectraMax® iD3 Multi-Mode Microplate Reader​ is a versatile benchtop instrument designed for routine and research applications in life sciences. It integrates three core detection modes—absorbance, fluorescence, and luminescence—into a user-friendly platform featuring a large touchscreen for standalone operation and advanced optical components for reliable performance in drug discovery, cell biology, and bioassay development.

Core Technology & Detection Capabilities

The SpectraMax iD3 employs a sophisticated four-monochromator optical system​ with high-efficiency gratings for precise wavelength selection. This allows for full-spectrum absorbance measurements (230–1000 nm) and flexible fluorescence detection (excitation: ~250–830 nm, emission: ~270–850 nm) without the need for physical filters. The system is powered by a high-energy xenon flash lamp and a Peltier-cooled PMT detector​ (~ -5°C), which minimizes dark current and provides a wide dynamic range for sensitive luminescence assays. Key detection features include endpoint, kinetic, spectral scanning, and well-area scanning (up to 20x20 points per well) for heterogeneous samples.

Key Features & Workflow Efficiency

  • Touchscreen & NFC Personalization: The iD3 includes a large, high-resolution touchscreen interface that enables users to set up and run experiments without a connected PC. Built-in Near-Field Communication (NFC)​ technology allows researchers to personalize workflows; tapping an NFC card instantly loads custom protocols, user settings, and access controls, streamlining walk-up use in shared lab environments.

  • Environmental Control & Shaking: The reader offers precise temperature control from ambient +5°C up to 65°C (or 66°C, depending on configuration) with orbital and linear shaking options. This is critical for kinetic enzyme assays, cell viability studies, and ELISAs requiring controlled incubation.

  • Optional Injectors & Data Management: An optional dual-injector system (SmartInject™) can be added for kinetic luminescence assays (e.g., ATP detection, dual-luciferase), with low dead volume and overflow protection. Data can be managed via USB or automatically pushed to network workstations using QuickSync technology.

Technical Specifications

Parameter

Specification

Manufacturer

Molecular Devices

Model

SpectraMax® iD3 Multi-Mode Microplate Reader

Detection Modes

Absorbance (UV-Vis), Fluorescence Intensity (Top/Bottom Read), Luminescence (Top Read)

Wavelength Range

Abs: 230–1000 nm; FI Ex: ~250–830 nm; FI Em: ~270–850 nm; Lum: ~300–850 nm

Optical System

4-monochromator design (1 nm step resolution), xenon flash lamp, cooled PMT detector

Plate Formats

6, 12, 24, 48, 96, 384-well (standard); compatible with 96/384-well low-volume plates

Read Speed

~20–30 seconds per 96-well plate (depending on mode)

Sensitivity (Typical)

FI: ~1 pM fluorescein (96-well); Lum: ~2–4 pM ATP (96-well)

Absorbance Accuracy

< ±0.010 OD (±1%) at 450 nm (0–3 OD range)

Temperature Control

Ambient +5°C to 65°C (66°C) with shaking (orbital, linear, double orbital)

Dimensions (WxDxH)

Approx. 53.2 cm x 59.8 cm x 40.1 cm

Software

SoftMax® Pro Software (preloaded protocols, GxP compliance options available)

Applications

The SpectraMax iD3 is widely used for DNA/RNA and protein quantification​ (e.g., Bradford, BCA, NanoOrange), ELISA and enzyme activity assays, cell viability and cytotoxicity​ (MTT, XTT, CellTiter-Glo), bacterial growth curves, and reporter gene assays. Its combination of monochromator-based flexibility, ease of use, and robust construction makes it a standard instrument in academic core facilities, pharmaceutical QC labs, and biotechnology companies.

Note: Specifications may vary based on configuration (e.g., with or without injectors, specific software licenses). Always verify the installed options against the instrument's configuration sheet.

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