If you're new to laboratory equipment, understanding how to properly use your pipettes is essential for accurate, reliable results with Absorbance One and Vintessential™ test kits.
In this video, we cover:
Each Vintessential™ protocol is written in microlitres, so correct volume selection and technique are critical.
Remember:
If pipettes are dropped, contaminated or poorly maintained, they may lose accuracy and require recalibration.
This transcript has been lightly edited for readability and to correct obvious automatic-caption errors. Product and method information should be checked against current Vintessential documents before use.
0:00 Pipette technique is one of the main sources of error for people who are not accustomed to laboratory work. This demonstration explains the pipettes supplied with Absorbance One and how to use them correctly.
0:18 The case contains three pipettes. The largest covers 100 to 1,000 microlitres, with 1,000 microlitres equal to 1 millilitre. The second covers 10 to 100 microlitres, and the smallest covers 2 to 20 microlitres.
0:41 Absorbance One and Vintessential test kit instructions specify volumes in microlitres. Set the required volume by turning the adjustment control at the top of the pipette, then attach the correct pipette tip.
1:09 Change the pipette tip whenever moving between reagents. This is essential for preventing contamination.
1:18 A pipette plunger has two pressure points. Press to the first stop before drawing up the liquid. Do not press to the second stop at this stage because the second stop is used to expel the remaining liquid.
1:40 Draw the required volume at the first stop. When dispensing into the cuvette, press through to the second stop so the entire measured volume is released.
1:56 Handle pipettes carefully. If a pipette is dropped, contaminated with wine, left dirty or otherwise mistreated, it may lose accuracy and require recalibration. A local laboratory or supplier may be able to calibrate the pipette or check whether it is within range.
