Description
The Invitrogen Bandmate Automated Western Blot Processor (Model BW1000) is a programmable benchtop laboratory instrument designed to automate the manual post-transfer processing steps of western blotting. By automating membrane blocking, primary antibody incubation, secondary antibody incubation, and wash steps, this automated western blot system minimizes hands-on time and significantly reduces experimental variability between blots.
Key Features and Workflow
- Complete Western Blot Automation: Handles all blocking, washing, and antibody incubation stages automatically without manual intervention after the initial setup.
- Open Reagent Flexibility: Works with standard western blot buffers, milk, BSA, and antibodies, removing the need for specialized or proprietary reagents.
- Antibody Recovery System: Features automated collection tubes that save and recover primary and secondary antibodies for future reuse.
- Programmable Digital Interface: Includes a touch-screen controller to easily customize incubation times (from 1 minute up to 96 hours) and rocking speeds (from 5 to 40 cycles per minute).
Capacity and Throughput
- Blot Capacity: Simultaneously processes up to 4 mini blots or 2 midi blots per run to improve laboratory throughput.
- Independent Tray Configurations: Utilizes separate channels to allow the processing of different protein blots with unique antibody treatments at the same time.
- Low Reagent Volume: Designed for low antibody consumption, requiring only 3.5 to 7.5 mL per blot to conserve expensive antibodies.
Technical Specifications
- Dimensions: 24 x 15.5 x 16.5 inches (61 x 39 x 42 cm)
- Weight: 40 lbs (18 kg)
- Power Requirements: 12 VDC, 5 amp