Slide Placement FormatOperating Modes and Notable RequirementsReagent Application
MethodsAdvantages and
Disadvantages
Matrix / Array Slides arranged in rows on removable, accessible racks Slides can be removed at any time
Usually ?Open?
Requires operator to select protocols and place slides on
stainer, then instructs operator where to place reagents
Allows use of reagents obtained from a variety of sources· Allows greater ability to modify staining protocols
Disposable Pipette Tips and Reusable/Disposable Reagent
Vials
OR
Reusable (Rinsed) ?Probes? and Reusable/Dispos-able Reagent Vials
Typically larger capacity than Carousel/ Rotary-format
stainers·
Typically shorter procedures (?runs?) than Carousel/Rotary·
Pipette tip-type systems eliminate reagent carry-over (?contamination?) and allow for more accurate/efficient reagent usage·
Reusable ?Probe?-type systems may result in reagent carry-over if inadequately rinsed
Carousel / Rotary
Slides arranged in a circular fashion on an inaccessible ?platter?·
Slides can only be removed at end of run
Usually ?Closed?
Automatically determines appropriate staining protocol through barcoded slide labels
More restrictive in the use of reagents obtained from non-vendor sources·
More restrictive in the ability to modify staining protocols
Disposable (syringe-like) Dispensers
OR
Disposable (printer cartridge-like) Dispensers
Typically smaller capacity than Matrix/Array-format stainers
Typically longer procedures (?runs?) than Matrix/Array
Neither reagent application method is as accurate/efficient as those used in Matrix/Array-format
stainers; for example, dispensers only allow for a fixed-volume (e.g. 100uL) application of all reagents
