StakMax microplate handling system

• Integrates with SpectraMax Readers and AquaMax Washers
• Robust and Reliable
• Easy to set up and use
• Flexible Operation
• Leverages the power of SoftMax Pro

A key factor in achieving higher throughput in laboratory experiments is the ability to easily process batches of microtiter plates. Options for automating this process are often expensive, hard to use, or problematic. To address these roadblocks, Molecular Devices has developed the StakMax™ microplate handling system. StakMax is an easy-to-set-up, powerful, and reliable stacking solution for Molecular Devices microplate readers. The system is operated through Molecular Devices’ industry leading SoftMax® Pro microplate data acquisition and analysis software and provides an easy-to-use interface for both novice and advanced users alike. StakMax provides options for 20-, 40-, and, 50-plate magazines, and barcode reading.

Simple to Use

The integration of StakMax with a microplate reader is simple and user-friendly. All the tools necessary for setup come standard with the system, including a software calibration procedure. The entire setup process takes approximately 15 minutes and, once StakMax is aligned, it is ready to operate. StakMax is programmed through SoftMax Pro for easy setup of batches or single-plate operation.

Flexible Operation

StakMax offers flexibility in configuring and operating the system. The system comes with a single plate loading adapter and a choice of magazines for 20, 40 or 50 SBS-standard 96- and 384-well microplates. Users can choose to process all plates within the magazine or select a specific number. StakMax also allows users to feed plates into the loading area manually.

A barcode reader accessory can be purchased with the system or added later and is easily installed onsite. The barcode reader can be configured to read either the short or long side of the microplate.

leverages softmax pro

All of the configuration options for StakMax are controlled through the standard SoftMax Pro data analysis software. StakMax is also compatible with SoftMax Pro GxP, enabling bioassay validation in a secure FDA 21 CFR Part 11, GLP-/GMP-compliant environment.

		flexible integration options
		Integrate Molecular Devices SpectraMax absorbance, fluorescence, luminescence, and multi-mode readers. System setup and calibration are controlled from within SoftMax Pro software.

		easy batch setup
		StakMax Control Window: With a few mouse clicks, users can set up a batch process, all using existing SoftMax Pro protocols.

		powerful data analysis tools
		Complete data analysis for multi-plate assays and over 120 assay protocols are included with SoftMax Pro software. Optional GxP compliance tools available.

Reliable, Robust Automation

Molecular Devices has over 20 years of experience working with automation in the life sciences industry. Molecular Devices leveraged this knowledge to develop a robust, reliable solution for automating microplates. With its superior reliability, users can set up the StakMax system for “walk-away” batch processing, which means less hands-on time processing plates.

Compatibility

StakMax requires SoftMax Pro 5.1 or greater and is compatible with the following Molecular Devices benchtop microplate readers:

• SpectraMax® M5^e/M5 (multi-mode)
• SpectraMax M2^e/M2 (dual-mode)
• Gemini EM and Gemini XPS (fluorescence)

The absorbance microplate readers below must have a newly-designed carriage and contain an “R” in the serial number:

• SpectraMax Plus³⁸⁴ (Serial#-MNR-xxxxx)
• SpectraMax 340PC³⁸⁴ (Serial#-LNR-xxxxx)
• SpectraMax 190 (Serial#-NNR-xxxxx)
• VersaMax™ (Serial#-BNR-xxxxx)

Technical Specifications

Performance Specifications

General Specifications

FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY. NOT FOR USE IN DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES.

Computer Requirements

See current computer requirements for SoftMax Pro at www.moleculardevices.com/softmaxpro.

Ordering Information

Please contact your Molecular Devices representative for configuration options.

StakMax Microplate Handling System
Part Number: STAKMAX

20-Plate Magazine (pair)
Part Number: 0200-6016

40-Plate Magazine (pair)
Part Number: 0200-6017

50-Plate Magazine

Shortside Barcode Reader
Part Number: 0310-5102

Longside Barcode Reader
Part Number: 0310-5101