1.  ValveLink or ValveBank Controller?

ValveLink  Controllers

The latest, more compact ValveLink controllers allows your perfusion system to be controlled in three ways:

(i) Manual control using the front panel buttons to switch channels on and off.
(ii) USB "manual" Control via Windows software
(ii) Digital control from your data acquisition and control interface.*

The new ValveLink 4.2 (4 channel), 8.2 (8 channel) and 16.2 (16 channel) also features a leak sensor that automatically shuts of valves in the event of a failure in your waste removal system.

ValveBank Controllers

The ValveBank 4 (4 channel) and 8 (8 channel) provide three methods of control:

(i)  Manual control using the remote calculator unit.
(ii)  Programmable control via the remote calculator unit which can also be programmed from a PC using EasyCode software from AutoMate.

(ii)  Start programs Digitally from your AD/DA interface (with certain limitations based on available digital outputs of your interface).*

*  Digital control requires the additional purchase of an appropriate cable to connect the valve controller to your particular AD/DA interface or HEKA EPC9/10 amplifier.  Click here for an overview of the possible options.

Pinch Valves

1/32" i.d. silicon tube passes through, and is pinched closed by the valve. No liquid comes into contact with the valve. Easiest valves to clean and switch tubing; however, switching times are 30-40ms.

Teflon Valves

Excellent chemical and corrosion resistance. Non-stick surface resists particle and chemical deposits.  Switching times of approx. 10ms.  Available in a choice of fittings: barb, luer-lock and nut and ferrule style.  Potential users should note that Teflon valves require thorough cleaning after each day's use.

Lee Valves

Lee mini valves for extremely fast switching and minimal pressure pulse.  For the most demanding applications AutoMate Scientific offers tiny valves from the Lee Company.  Enclosed in our new aluminum box with luer locks for syringe reservoirs, these valves can open and close in 1.5-4 ms with a ValveLink8.2 controller.

15ml Syringes (gravity flow only)

35ml Syringes (gravity or pressurized flow )

4.  Are you bath perfusing or do you need a Perfusion Pencil?

Perfusion Pencil

Available in three sizes: 100, 250 or 360 microns for systems of up to 4,8 or 16 channels, the perfusion pencil offers an alternative to the teflon manifold supplied with complete systems.  With its replaceable quartz tip, focal application of drugs to particular cells or regions of the perfusion chamber is possible.  Such perfusion reduces the volume of solutions required. In addition, the micro-manifold incorporated within the pencil has a very small dead volume.  A pressure manifold (see below) is recommended in order to achieve adequate perfusion rates with the perfusion pencil.

Pressure Manifold*

When using gravity fed perfusion systems, the flow rate obtained is dependent upon reservoir height, fluid volume and tubing dimensions.  As the reservoir becomes empty, the flow rate will inevitably reduce.  This can have detrimental effects on the experiment.  The AutoMate pressure manifold removes these variables, by providing a constant pressure to the fluid reservoirs ultimately providing a fixed flow rate.  Note that a pressure manifold is recommended if you intend to use any of the perfusion pencils described above.

 
Need Some Perfusion Accessories?  We can also supply a range of disposables such as tubing reservoirs as well as other accessories to keep your system fully operational.  Please contact us to request a price list.