Preparations
Before using a micropipette, it is important to prepare the necessary materials. These materials include the micropipette itself, tips, and solutions. Depending on the type of experiment, other materials such as a timer, electronic pipette controller, or pipette stand may be necessary as well. When preparing the solutions, it is important to use only high-quality reagents that are free of any contaminants or other impurities. The pH of the solutions should also be checked. Finally, the tips should be selected based on their compatibility with the micropipette.
Loading the Tip
Once the necessary materials are prepared, the next step is to load the tip onto the micropipette. This is done by inserting the tip into the micropipette until it is firmly in place. It is important to ensure that the tip is securely attached to the micropipette before use. The shape of the tip should also be checked to ensure that it is not damaged or distorted. If the tip is not properly loaded onto the micropipette, it may result in inaccurate results.
Setting the Volume
The next step is to set the volume on the micropipette. This is done using the volume adjustment knob located at the top of the micropipette. Depending on the type of micropipette, the volume can be adjusted in increments of 0.1 μL, 0.5 μL, 1 μL, and so on. It is important to ensure that the correct volume is set before drawing up the solution.
Drawing Up the Solution
Once the volume is set, the next step is to draw up the solution. This is done by inserting the tip of the micropipette into the solution and gently depressing the plunger to draw up the solution. The plunger should be depressed slowly and steadily to ensure that the solution is drawn up in an accurate and consistent manner. It is important to ensure that the tip does not touch the sides of the container or bottom to prevent any contamination.
Dispensing the Solution
Once the desired volume is drawn up, the next step is to dispense the solution. This is done by gently pressing the plunger to carefully eject the solution from the tip. The plunger should be depressed slowly and steadily to ensure that the solution is dispensed in an accurate and consistent manner. It is important to ensure that the tip does not touch the sides of the container or bottom to prevent any contamination.
Cleaning the Micropipette
After use, it is important to clean the micropipette to prevent any contamination. This is done by simply rinsing the micropipette in warm water. It is important to ensure that all of the solution is removed from the tip and body of the micropipette. After rinsing, the micropipette should be dried with a lint-free cloth before being stored in a clean, dry place.
Calibrating the Micropipette
To ensure accuracy and reliability, it is important to periodically calibrate the micropipette. This is done by using a calibration solution with a known volume and comparing the volume dispensed by the micropipette to the known volume. If the volume dispensed is different from the known volume, then the micropipette must be adjusted until the two volumes match. This process should be repeated periodically to ensure accuracy.
Storing the Micropipette
When not in use, it is important to store the micropipette in a clean, dry place. The micropipette should be kept away from any direct sunlight or extreme temperatures to prevent any damage or distortion. It is also important to ensure that the micropipette is not exposed to any dust or other contaminants.
Safety Precautions
It is important to take certain safety precautions when using a micropipette. This includes wearing protective gloves and eyewear to protect against any potential hazards. It is also important to store and handle all solutions carefully to prevent any contact with the skin or eyes. Finally, it is important to dispose of all used tips and solutions properly to prevent any contamination.
Conclusion
Using a micropipette is an important skill for any laboratory technician. It is important to prepare the necessary materials, load the tip, set the volume, draw up the solution, dispense the solution, clean the micropipette, calibrate the micropipette, and store the micropipette properly. It is also important to take certain safety precautions when using a micropipette. With practice and patience, anyone can learn how to use a micropipette.