Agilent BioTek Synergy HTX Multi-Mode Microplate Reader
| Brand | Agilent Technologies |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Manufacturer Type | Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | Synergy HTX |
| Function Type | Multi-Mode |
| Automation Level | Fully Automated |
| Assay Methods | Endpoint, Kinetic, Well-Scanning |
| Curve Fitting Options | Linear, Point-to-Point, Four-Parameter Logistic (4PL) |
| Detector Types | Fluorescence, UV-Vis Absorbance, Luminescence, Time-Resolved Fluorescence (TRF), AlphaScreen/AlphaLISA |
| Wavelength Range | Filter-Based: 200–850 nm |
| Monochromator-Based | 200–999 nm |
| Absorbance Range | 0–4 OD |
| Absorbance Linearity | <1% deviation from ideal linearity across 0–3.0 OD |
| 96-Well Read Time | 14 seconds |
| Absorbance Precision | ±0.0001 OD |
Overview
The Agilent BioTek Synergy HTX Multi-Mode Microplate Reader is a benchtop, fully automated microplate detection system engineered for precision, reproducibility, and broad assay flexibility in academic, pharmaceutical, and clinical research laboratories. It employs dual optical pathways—filter-based fluorescence detection and monochromator-based UV-Vis absorbance—to deliver high-sensitivity, low-noise measurements without cross-channel interference. The instrument supports 6-, 24-, 96-, and 384-well microplates, as well as the Take3™ micro-volume platform for direct nucleic acid and protein quantification using only 2 µL sample volumes. Integrated temperature control (up to 50 °C), programmable linear or orbital shaking, and optional dual syringe-based reagent injectors enable robust kinetic assays—including enzyme kinetics, dual-luciferase reporter assays, and live-cell metabolic profiling—under physiologically relevant conditions. Its architecture complies with fundamental design principles of GLP-compliant instrumentation, supporting audit-ready operation when paired with appropriate software configuration.
Key Features
- Dual independent optical systems: High-gain filter-based fluorescence optics optimized for AlphaScreen®, AlphaLISA®, and TRF assays; monochromator-based absorbance optics covering 200–999 nm with no filter dependency.
- Full-plate kinetic read capability with sub-second per-well dwell time; 96-well absorbance reads completed in ≤14 seconds with <1% linearity error from 0–3.0 OD.
- Integrated environmental control: Precise Peltier-based temperature regulation (ambient +4 °C to 50 °C) and programmable shaking (linear or orbital, 50–1,200 rpm, duration and amplitude adjustable).
- Optional dual syringe injector module with angled dispensing tips enables rapid, low-dead-volume reagent addition during kinetic measurements—critical for luciferase, calcium flux, and protease activity assays.
- Take3™ micro-volume platform compatibility allows simultaneous quantification of up to 48 samples (2 µL each) for dsDNA, ssDNA, RNA, and protein (A280/A260), eliminating dilution steps and reducing carryover risk.
- Modular hardware design supports field-upgradable components, including injector modules and enhanced detector assemblies, extending operational lifespan beyond typical platform obsolescence cycles.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Synergy HTX accommodates standard ANSI/SLAS-format microplates (6–384-well), opaque and clear-bottom plates for fluorescence imaging, white plates for luminescence, and black plates for TRF. It is validated for use with commercially available assay kits conforming to ASTM E2752 (standard practice for microplate reader performance verification) and ISO 20387 (biobanking quality requirements). When operated with Gen6 software configured for electronic signatures and audit trails, the system meets documentation requirements aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 for regulated environments. Routine performance verification follows Agilent BioTek’s documented SOPs for photometric accuracy, wavelength calibration, and inter-plate repeatability—ensuring consistency across multi-user, multi-shift laboratory operations.
Software & Data Management
Controlled exclusively via Agilent BioTek Gen6 software, the Synergy HTX supports protocol-driven automation, real-time data visualization, and integrated statistical analysis. Gen6 implements role-based user access, electronic lab notebook (ELN)-compatible export (CSV, XML, PDF), and customizable report templates compliant with internal QA standards. All instrument events—including plate loading, temperature ramping, shaking cycles, injection timing, and raw signal acquisition—are timestamped and logged with operator ID. Raw data files retain full metadata (wavelength, gain, integration time, detector voltage), enabling retrospective reprocessing without loss of traceability. Software validation packages are available for GxP environments, including IQ/OQ documentation and change control records.
Applications
The Synergy HTX delivers validated performance across core life science workflows: nucleic acid and protein quantification (A260/A280); cell viability (MTT, Resazurin); apoptosis (caspase-3/7); kinase activity (ADP-Glo™); receptor binding (TR-FRET); and high-throughput screening (HTS) using Alpha technologies. Its kinetic resolution supports enzymatic turnover rate determination (Vmax, Km) and real-time monitoring of intracellular signaling cascades. In virology and immunology labs, it facilitates neutralizing antibody titration (pseudovirus entry assays) and cytokine ELISAs with dual-wavelength correction. The system is routinely deployed in core facilities for service-based assay development where throughput, reproducibility, and cross-assay versatility are prioritized over single-mode optimization.
FAQ
Does the Synergy HTX support FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance?
Yes—when used with Gen6 software configured for electronic signatures, audit trails, and secure user authentication, the system supports Part 11 requirements for electronic records and signatures.
Can I perform AlphaScreen assays without additional hardware?
Yes—the built-in filter-based fluorescence optics include dedicated excitation/emission filters and high-sensitivity PMT detection calibrated for AlphaScreen and AlphaLISA chemistries.
Is the Take3 platform included by default?
No—the Take3 micro-volume pedestal is an optional accessory; however, it integrates seamlessly with the Synergy HTX optical path and Gen6 software without requiring recalibration.
What maintenance is required to ensure long-term photometric stability?
Annual wavelength and photometric verification using NIST-traceable standards is recommended; Agilent BioTek provides certified calibration services and on-site preventive maintenance contracts.
Can the instrument be integrated into robotic liquid handling workflows?
Yes—it features standard SLAS footprint dimensions and RS-232/Ethernet interfaces compatible with third-party automation controllers (e.g., Hamilton, Tecan) via ASCII command protocol.
