Thermo Scientific Multiskan FC Microplate Reader
| Brand | Thermo Fisher |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) |
| Regional Classification | Domestic (China-manufactured) |
| Model | Multiskan™ FC |
| Functionality | Absorbance-only microplate reader |
| Automation Level | Fully automated |
| Assay Modes | Endpoint and kinetic |
| Curve Fitting Options | Linear, 4-parameter logistic (4PL), 5-parameter logistic (5PL), quadratic, cubic, log-log, semi-log |
| Detector Type | Photodiode-based UV-Vis spectrophotometer |
| Wavelength Range | 340–850 nm |
| Absorbance Range | 0–6.0 OD |
| Linearity | ±2% deviation from theoretical value within 0–4.0 Abs (96-well plate, standard mode) |
| Read Speed | 6 seconds per 96-well plate (fast mode) |
| Precision | CV ≤ 0.2% (0–3.0 Abs, standard mode) |
Overview
The Thermo Scientific Multiskan FC Microplate Reader is a dedicated absorbance-based microplate detection system engineered for precision, reproducibility, and operational robustness in life science research and clinical diagnostics laboratories. Operating on the principle of photometric absorbance measurement—where light attenuation through a sample is quantified according to the Beer–Lambert law—the instrument delivers high-fidelity optical data across the ultraviolet-to-visible spectrum (340–850 nm). Designed for routine ELISA, protein quantification, cytotoxicity assays, enzyme kinetics, and microbial growth monitoring, the Multiskan FC integrates hardware reliability with regulatory-ready software architecture. Its fully automated operation eliminates manual intervention during plate reading, while built-in self-diagnostic routines, IQ/OQ/PQ protocols, and validation support tools ensure consistent performance across installation, qualification, and daily use—critical for GLP-compliant environments and ISO 17025-accredited testing facilities.
Key Features
- Fully automated microplate handling with integrated plate positioning and optical path calibration
- Photodiode-based dual-beam UV-Vis detection system delivering stable baseline performance and minimal drift over extended runs
- Programmable temperature-controlled incubation up to 50 °C, enabling precise thermal management for temperature-sensitive immunoassays and enzymatic reactions
- Orbital shaking function with adjustable speed and duration, ensuring homogeneous mixing prior to measurement
- High-resolution color LCD touchscreen interface with intuitive icon-driven navigation and multilingual support (English, Spanish, French, German, Chinese, Japanese)
- Onboard SkanIt™ software v4.1 or later, pre-installed and validated for routine data acquisition, basic curve fitting, and QC flagging
- USB 2.0 port for direct export of raw data, protocol files, and audit logs without dependency on external PCs
- Optimized optics and firmware algorithms supporting both 96-well and 384-well microplates at identical accuracy specifications
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Multiskan FC supports standard ANSI/SLAS-format microplates including clear, white, and black polystyrene plates, as well as specialized low-volume and UV-transparent variants. It is compatible with common assay chemistries such as horseradish peroxidase (HRP)- and alkaline phosphatase (AP)-conjugated detection systems, chromogenic substrates (e.g., TMB, pNPP), and nucleic acid dyes. The IVD-certified variant complies with EU Regulation (EU) 2017/746 (IVDR) and carries CE marking under Annex II Class B requirements. Instrument design adheres to IEC 61010-1 for electrical safety and IEC 61326-1 for electromagnetic compatibility. Data integrity features—including user access control, electronic signatures, and audit trail generation—support compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when used with validated SkanIt™ software configurations.
Software & Data Management
SkanIt™ software provides a streamlined workflow from protocol setup to report generation. Users can define custom wavelength sets, kinetic intervals, and endpoint thresholds; apply real-time background subtraction; and select among seven curve-fitting models (linear, quadratic, cubic, log-log, semi-log, 4PL, and 5PL) with residual analysis. Raw absorbance values, calculated concentrations, and QC metrics are exported in CSV, Excel (.xlsx), or PDF formats. Audit trails record all user actions—including parameter changes, result overrides, and file exports—with timestamps and operator IDs. For integration into LIMS or ELN ecosystems, the instrument supports HL7-compatible metadata tagging and optional OPC UA connectivity via third-party middleware.
Applications
- Quantitative and qualitative ELISA for infectious disease serology, autoimmune marker screening, and therapeutic antibody titer determination
- Protein concentration measurement using Bradford, BCA, or Lowry assays
- Endotoxin detection via chromogenic LAL assays
- In vitro cytotoxicity and cell proliferation assessment using MTT, XTT, or resazurin-based readouts
- Enzyme activity profiling (e.g., kinase, phosphatase, dehydrogenase) under controlled thermal conditions
- Bacterial and yeast growth curve analysis in antimicrobial susceptibility testing
- Quality control of biologics, vaccines, and diagnostic reagents in manufacturing release testing
FAQ
Does the Multiskan FC support fluorescence or luminescence detection?
No. The Multiskan FC is an absorbance-only reader. For multimodal detection, consider the Thermo Scientific Varioskan LUX or Multiskan GO platforms.
Is SkanIt software included with the instrument?
Yes. A full license of SkanIt™ software is pre-installed and validated for immediate use. Software updates are available via Thermo Fisher Connect portal.
Can the instrument be connected to a laboratory network?
While the Multiskan FC lacks built-in Ethernet or Wi-Fi, it supports secure offline data transfer via USB and can be integrated into networked workflows using intermediary PC-based automation frameworks.
What validation documentation is provided?
Each unit ships with a Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) report, IQ/OQ templates compliant with ISO/IEC 17025, and a Certificate of Conformance. PQ support packages are available upon request.
Is service and technical support available globally?
Yes. Thermo Fisher Scientific maintains certified service centers across North America, EMEA, and APAC regions, offering preventive maintenance contracts, remote diagnostics, and on-site engineering support.
