Molecular Devices Introduces SpectraMax i3 Multi-Mode Microplate Detection Platform with SpectraMax MiniMax Imaging Cytometer

Molecular Devices®, market leader in microplate reader technology for over 25 years, has announced today the launch of its SpectraMax® i3 Multi-Mode Detection Platform. The system is available as a stand-alone reader with the option for users to upgrade to additional applications and detection modes such as cellular imaging with the SpectraMax® MiniMax™ Imaging Cytometer, and cartridges for Time-Resolved Fluorescence, Fluorescence Polarization, and AlphaScreen® assays. The highly sensitive instrument accommodates the budget and throughput needs of both small and large laboratories alike.

The SpectraMax i3 Platform’s base system features an integrated optical system enabling top and bottom reads for 6 - 384 well microplates and launches with three broad detection modes: luminescence, absorbance, and fluorescence. Patented user-exchangeable cartridge design expands the system’s detection capability making it highly versatile, and able to offer application options far exceeding those of standard readers. The MiniMax Imaging Cytometer module adds first of its kind cellular imaging to a multi-mode detection platform, enabling fluorescence and bright field cellular imaging. Combining cellular imaging with microplate-based applications offers new ways for scientists to compress their workflows and increase efficiency.

Using a combination of a flash lamp for spectral flexibility and light emitting diodes (LEDs) for excitation power, Molecular Devices has developed the patent-pending Spectral Fusion™ Illumination to deliver wavelength flexibility whilst maximizing signal strength, ultimately increasing overall performance.

Data from the SpectraMax i3 System is captured and analysed using Molecular Devices’ proprietary, industry-leading SoftMax® Pro Software. The newly updated interface and Spectral Optimization Wizard simplifies the workflow and provides powerful data analysis features, eliminating the need for training on additional software. The SpectraMax i3 System is also available for use in GMP and GLP labs when used with the SoftMax® Pro 6.3 GxP Microplate Data Compliance Software.

Klaus Lun, Vice President of Product Marketing at Molecular Devices commented: “This new platform builds on Molecular Devices’ experience in life science detection instrumentation development and our commitment to bring additional utility to the microplate reader, further compressing the workflows for our customers. With the MiniMax Imaging Cytometer for cellular imaging, Molecular Devices introduces a new world of cell-based assay application possibilities to the microplate reader.  We will continue to expand the platform’s functionality by adding new capabilities to the microplate reader through the introduction of application-specific detection cartridges in 2013.”