Device built-in

Molecular Devices SpectraMax M3 Microplate Reader is a modular detection platform integrating multi-functional assays and intelligent analysis, widely used in molecular biology, cell biology, drug discovery, and quality control. The following details its core technologies, functional features, application scenarios, and system advantages:

I. Core Technologies and Hardware Design

1. Multi-Mode Detection System

   • Optical Configuration: Equipped with dual holographic gratings (excitation and emission), covering a wavelength range of 200-1000 nm with adjustable bandwidth (2-25 nm). Supports UV-Vis absorbance, fluorescence (top/bottom reading), luminescence, and turbidity assays.

   • Temperature Control: Integrated Peltier system (4°C to 45°C) with ±0.2°C accuracy, suitable for kinetic enzyme activity and temperature-sensitive experiments.

2. Intelligent Optical Path Design

   • Auto-Z-Height Adjustment: Automatically optimizes the distance between the optical path and the microplate well bottom to eliminate signal errors caused by plate tolerances or meniscus effects.

   • Dual Automated Pinhole Positioning: Supports full automation for 96/384-well plates, with optional injectors for high-throughput applications.

II. Functional Features and Performance Advantages

1. Rapid and High-Precision Detection

   • Scanning Speed: Full-wavelength scan (200-1000 nm) for a 96-well plate completed in 8 seconds with 1 nm data resolution.

   • Sensitivity: Fluorescence detection sensitivity reaches 1 fmol FITC/well (384-well plate); luminescence detects as low as 0.1 amol ATP/well.

2. Compliance and Automation

   • 21 CFR Part 11 Compliance: SoftMax Pro software supports electronic signatures, audit trails, and user权限 management, meeting GMP/GLP requirements.

   • Pre-Loaded Assay Library: Offers 100+ preset protocols (e.g., BCA protein quantification, cytotoxicity assays, reporter gene analysis) for one-click operation.

III. Comprehensive Application Scenarios

1. Life Science Research

   • Nucleic Acid/Protein Analysis: Direct measurement of DNA/RNA concentration (A260/A280) and protein quantification (Lowry, Bradford methods).

   • Cellular Assays: Supports cell proliferation (MTT/XTT), apoptosis (Caspase-3 activity), and oxidative stress (ROS detection).

2. Drug Screening and Quality Control

   • High-Throughput Screening: Compatible with 6-1536-well plates; optional stackers enable continuous operation.

   • Enzyme Kinetics: Real-time monitoring of NADH redox reactions (10 data points/sec at 340 nm).

   • QC Plate Application: Validates system performance using certified QC plates (e.g., NIST standards) to ensure data reliability.

IV. System Advantages and Expandability

1. Modular Expansion

   • Upgradeable with injector systems (for kinetic injections) or CO₂ control modules (for live-cell monitoring).

   • Integrates with automation robots (e.g., StakMax stackers) to build fully automated workstations.

2. Intelligent Software Ecosystem

   • SoftMax Pro Software: Features drag-and-drop protocol design, 3D data visualization, and multi-language support (including Chinese).

   • Data Management: Compatible with LIMS systems; enables cloud data storage and generates pharmacopeia-compliant reports.

3. Global Service Support

   • Provides on-site installation qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ) and annual calibration services to ensure sustained performance.

Summary

The SpectraMax M3 stands out for its flexibility, high sensitivity, and compliance-ready design, making it ideal for both routine testing and advanced research. Base models are priced at approximately ¥200,000–300,000 RMB, while advanced configurations (e.g., with injectors and automation) may reach ¥500,000 RMB. Widely adopted by leading companies such as Pfizer and WuXi AppTec, it boasts a global installation base of over 10,000 units. For technical documentation or application support, resources are available through the Molecular Devices official website.