Creating New Labware for the Biomek® Laboratory Automation Workstations

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Jeanne Blum, Beckman Coulter, Inc.

Using labware in Biomek Software includes selecting it from the large variety of predefined types available in the Labware Type Editor. These predefined labware types include all the dimensions and properties necessary to quickly and efficiently use them with your Biomek Laboratory Automation Workstation. See the chart below to learn what labware is predefined for your specific liquid handler. Other labware types may be used by creating and defining them in Biomek Software. There are also some created labware types available as import files. 

Using Predefined Labware in the Biomek Software

Creating New Labware

Labware types, other than those listed on the chart, may be used by creating and defining them in Biomek Software. Creating and defining labware includes using manufacturer's drawings or digital calipers to enter the necessary dimensions of the new labware into the software via the Labware Type Editor. Creating new labware also includes entering information for movement and stacking. Additional information can be found in the Biomek Software User's Manual or by choosing F1 while configuring the Labware Type Editor.

When you want to create and define your own labware, there are some simple steps:

1. Obtain the plate dimensions from the manufacturer or use digital calipers to obtain the necessary dimensions. The maximum or total well volume must be obtained from the manufacturer to ensure the liquid level is tracked correctly. Some vendors include plate dimensions on their website or in their catalogs.
2. Enter the dimensions and well configurations in the Labware Type Editor for the new labware. Copy a labware type in the Labware Type Editor that most resembles the new labware to eliminate having to enter all new dimensions. Also make sure the dimensions are in the unit as specified in the Labware Type Editor.

The following graphics display some plate dimensions and areas in the Labware Type Editor where the dimensions must be entered.

Figure 1. X and Y Span Labware Dimensions

Figure 2. Labware Height

Figure 3. Upper Radius, Lower Radius, and Well Height

Manufacturer's dimensions are typically given as a diameter. However, Biomek Software uses radius measurements.

The Height at the top of the Well Configuration Dialog does not include the Bottom Section. The Bottom Section height must be configured if the bottom of the well is pyramid or cone-shaped.

The calculated Maximum possible volume on the Well Configuration Dialog should closely match the manufacturer's stated maximum or total volume to ensure the well dimensions are modeled correctly.

Figure 4. X and Y Well Offset

Figure 5. Z Stack Offset

If you want to self-stack plates, the Z stack offset must be entered. It is measured from the bottom, back-left corner on the lower piece of labware to the bottom, back-left corner on the upper labware above it.

3. Test the new labware definition within a method to ensure pipetting, labware movement, and stacking are correct.

Using Import Files

There are also some common labware types that have been already created that can be found as import files in the Tool Box under Labware Definitions at the eLabNotebook Website. The Customer Call Center can also send you an import file for some labware. Before creating and defining new labware, check the Tool Box or call the Customer Call Center.

For Research Use Only; not for use in diagnostic procedures.

For comments or questions about T³ Update, please contact David Daniels, Ph.D., editor.

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