HJ HBS-1096A Microplate Reader

Overview

The HJ HBS-1096A Microplate Reader is a high-performance, benchtop absorbance-based microplate detection system engineered for precision quantification in life science laboratories. It operates on the principle of photometric absorbance measurement using a stable DC-powered halogen light source and an 8-channel vertical optical path architecture—designed to minimize cross-talk and maximize inter-well consistency. The instrument supports endpoint, kinetic, inhibition-rate, and universal assay modes across a broad spectral range (400–1000 nm), enabling compatibility with chromogenic substrates widely used in ELISA, enzyme activity assays, cell viability studies (e.g., MTT, CCK-8), and protein quantification (e.g., BCA, Bradford). Its fully enclosed optical cavity eliminates ambient light interference and ensures long-term photometric stability without routine recalibration or maintenance.

Key Features

• 8-inch full-color capacitive touchscreen interface with intuitive plate mapping visualization and real-time status feedback—supports both standalone operation and PC-linked control.
• Vertical 8-channel optical system with imported photodetectors, delivering high signal-to-noise ratio and minimal well-to-well variation.
• Motorized filter wheel accommodating up to 15 interference filters; user-replaceable without tools or internal disassembly.
• Integrated plate handling automation: motorized lid actuation, auto-sensing plate insertion, and programmable shaking with three amplitude levels and precise timing (0–255 s).
• Optional temperature-controlled incubation module (RT+4°C to 50°C) with tight thermal regulation (±0.5°C at 37°C), supporting kinetic assays requiring thermal stability.
• Universal power input (AC 100–240 V, 50/60 Hz) enables seamless deployment across global laboratory environments without voltage converters.
• Rugged mechanical design (11 kg net weight, compact footprint: 444 × 320 × 318 mm) optimized for shared core facilities and QC labs with space constraints.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The HBS-1096A is validated for use with standard 96-well microplates (flat-bottom, U/V-bottom, and tissue-culture treated formats), including opaque, clear, and black plates for absorbance and select indirect fluorescence applications. All optical components comply with IEC 61000-4 electromagnetic compatibility standards, and the device carries CE marking under Directive 2014/30/EU (EMC) and 2014/35/EU (LVD). The embedded firmware and accompanying analysis software are developed in accordance with ISO 13485-aligned quality practices and support 21 CFR Part 11 compliance—including user authentication, electronic signatures, immutable audit trails, and role-based access control—making it suitable for GLP and GMP-regulated environments. Documentation includes a registered utility model patent (CN213715129U) and certified software copyright (2022SR0824117).

Software & Data Management

The instrument ships with HJ Microplate Analysis Workstation v3.2—a Windows-based application providing comprehensive data acquisition, curve fitting (linear, 4PL, 5PL, log-log), threshold-based classification, QC charting (Levey-Jennings, Westgard rules), and customizable report generation. Raw OD values, calculated concentrations, and statistical summaries (mean, SD, CV%, % recovery) are exportable to CSV, Excel, or PDF. Database functionality supports multi-user project archiving with timestamped metadata, plate layout templates, and assay protocol versioning. All software modifications undergo formal change control, and validation packages—including IQ/OQ documentation—are available upon request for regulated laboratories.

Applications

This reader serves as a primary detection platform in academic research, clinical diagnostics support labs, biopharmaceutical process development, and food safety testing. Typical use cases include quantitative ELISA for cytokine profiling, enzymatic reaction monitoring (e.g., LDH release, caspase-3 activity), microbial growth assessment (OD₆₀₀), hemoglobin quantification, and endotoxin detection via LAL chromogenic assays. Its wide dynamic range (0–4.000 OD) and low intra-assay variability (<0.2% CV) ensure reliable performance across low-abundance analytes and highly concentrated samples alike—without manual dilution steps.

FAQ

Does the HBS-1096A support wavelength scanning or spectral acquisition?
No—it is a fixed-wavelength filter-based reader. Spectral resolution is achieved via discrete interference filters; continuous scanning is not supported.
Can the incubation module be retrofitted to an existing unit?
Yes—incubation is offered as a field-installable option kit with factory calibration verification.
Is third-party software integration possible (e.g., LabArchives, Benchling)?
Raw data export (CSV/Excel) enables manual import; API-based integration is not natively supported but may be enabled via custom DLL development under NDA.
What maintenance is required during the 3-year warranty period?
None beyond routine external cleaning and annual verification using NIST-traceable neutral density filters—no optical alignment or lamp replacement is needed under normal usage.
Are service contracts available post-warranty?
Yes—extended technical support, preventive maintenance visits, and priority parts replacement are offered through HJ’s authorized service network in APAC and EU regions.