Frequently
Asked Questions
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Do other manufacturer’s tips fit the Ovation pipette?
Some other manufacturer’s tips do fit Ovation pipettes, however we can not assure that our stated performance specifications can be met when other tips are used. All performance claims in our literature and on this web site are based on using the Ovation pipette with Ovation tips as a system. Additionally, the tip acquisition and tip ejection functions may not perform properly when other tips are used. See the Ovation Tip section of this web site for more information on this topic.
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Why is the manufacturing quality of a tip so important?
Tip quality can affect pipetting results in a number of ways: (A) Hydrophobic qualities - if a tip’s hydrophobic properties are diminished, it could retain liquid inside, or even retain a drop of measured liquid on the outer surface. (B) Poor quality tips may have burrs or plastic flash which do not allow the smooth release of all liquid within the tips – some of the measured volume may be trapped at the end of the tip. (C) Non-concentric tip openings to the end of the tip affect the dispensing of the contents. Some liquid may adhere due to changes in surface properties. (D) Tip straightness affects the dynamics of the air displacement
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Can I calibrate the Ovation pipette myself?
Software for in-lab calibration is internal to the pipette. Once you have determined the actual volume that the pipette is delivering, this value can be directly entered into the calibration software. That’s all it takes. A known calibration factor for any liquid can also be entered at any time.
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How often should I verify calibration?
Reputable pipetting reference documents recommend that calibration verification be performed at least every six months. In addition, VistaLab Technologies suggests that calibration verification be performed for any of the following reasons: (A) Maintenance such as seal replacement has been performed (B) Quality control sampling shows a change in results (C) Current laboratory protocols and practices require more frequent verification
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At what volume should I dispense when verifying calibration or changing calibration for a specific liquid?
For pipetting performance across the entire range, calibration verification should be based on the volume delivery at the pipette’s maximum volume. For optimum performance with a specific liquid at a set volume, use that volume setting. If the specific liquid is dispensed at multiple volumes, then use the pipette’s maximum volume.
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What if I have to send in my Ovation for calibration, maintenance or service?
Complete information about our calibration and repair services is available in the Service area of this web site. Routine turnaround time for these services is two business days.
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What is the cost of calibration, maintenance or other services?
Complete pricing information about our calibration and repair services is available in the Support area of this web site under “Service”. Costs are based on the specific services that need to be performed.
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What is the warranty period for Ovation Pipettes?
VistaLab Technologies, Inc. warrants the Ovation BioNatural Pipette against defects in materials and workmanship for one year from the date of purchase. To register your pipette and activate the warranty, go to the Support area of this web site, and click on “Pipette Registration”. Complete and submit the on-line form provided.
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Is calibration covered under warranty?
No. Each Ovation pipette is sent to you with a calibration certificate that is generated at the time of manufacturing. This assures you that when the pipette leaves our factory, it is calibrated by trained technicians to the performance specifications using the reference (gravimetric) method. If the environment, techniques or methodologies used in your laboratory differ from those used in the reference (gravimetric) method, a simple in-lab procedure using calibration software internal to Ovation pipettes with the adjustable volume feature, or an Allen key for fixed volume models, may be followed to make any necessary adjustments.
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Should I pre-wet tips?
Reference documents (ISO/DIS 8655) recommend that prior to use, each pipette tip should be pre-wet in the sample to be used. This greatly increases the accuracy and precision of your work.
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Should I rinse out the tip when I am dispensing
No. Pipettes are calibrated to deliver (TD) or to contain (TC). Rinsing out will change the amount of calibrated liquid being dispensed.
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Can the Ovation Pipette be autoclaved?
No. However, the pipette can be decontaminated by wiping down the outside surface (except for the LCD screen) with a 70% aqueous solution of ethanol or isopropanol, or use a 10% bleach solution followed by water. ONLY WIPE THE LCD SCREEN WITH WATER.
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How can I decontaminate the pipette?
See above question on autoclaving
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What is the purpose of the liquid blocking nozzle?
The liquid blocking nozzle contains an internal aerosol/liquid barrier filter to prevent liquid from being aspirated into the pipette. It also offers some protection to internal parts from routine exposure to hazardous liquids and vapors. If this filter becomes wet, the pipette will not aspirate fluid until a new nozzle is installed.
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How often do I change the filter in the nozzles?
Nozzles should be changed if any liquid has been accidentally aspirated into the nozzles (such as when the volume setting of the pipette exceeds the capacity of the installed tips). In addition, filters should be replaced on an as-needed basis depending on the solutions that are routinely pipetted or if the nozzle filters are contaminated.
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My pipette is not aspirating. What could be the problem?
Verify that the nozzle and/or extender is firmly tightened. Then ruleout that the liquid blocking nozzle has not become wet by changing the nozzle. If it still is not aspirating, contact VistaLab Technical Services.
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How often do I need to replace seals?
The seals should not require changing unless the pipette has been used with chemicals that are harmful to or negatively affect rubber. Generally, seals do not need to be changed more than one time every 2-3 years.
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How do I know it is time to replace seals?
(A) Precision and accuracy are not within specifications, and technique and environment are not a factor (B) The pipette’s plunger is not moving freely. (C ) The pipette leaks and this condition is not related to tips
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What tips are available?
Micro, small and large volume tip sizes are available specifically for the Ovation pipette to ensure proper fit and easy tip acquisition and ejection. They are precision molded to the strictest dimensional standards for consistent tip-to-tip and lot-to-lot performance. A variety of packaging formats are available as well as specific tips that meet the certification requirements needed in many applications. See the Ovation Tips and Accessories section of this web site for more information.
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At what volume should I verify the Ovation pipette?
Unless the pipette is used only at one set volume, the pipette should be verified at the low, mid-range and high volume settings. Unlike other pipettes, accuracy and precision specifications for the Ovation apply to the entire operating range, not just to certain points of the pipette's range.
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I am left-handed. Can I use this Ovation pipette?
All Ovation pipettes have an adjustable hook that allows the user to find the most comfortable position for the pipette to fit comfortably in the palm of the hand. In addition, electronic single channel, electronic macro and electronic multichannel Ovation pipettes are available in “left-hand” models where the LCD screen is placed on the right side of the pipette for easier viewing by left-handed users. To order a left handed model, identify the catalog number of the desired model and add an “L” at the end of the number.
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Do I have to setup a pipetting function each time I use it?
The pipette always stores the last setting(s) used for any liquid handling function. It is only necessary to setup a function if the required settings have changed.
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How often do I need to recharge the battery?
An icon on the display indicates the battery charge. When the icon begins to flash, the battery is approaching a low battery level and one should consider plugging in the AC Power Supply to continue operations or recharging at one’s earliest convenience. Unlike other pipettes, the pipette can remain connected to the AC power supply whenever it is not in use.
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How long does the battery take to recharge?
A fully drained battery takes 90 minutes.
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How often do I need to change the battery?
The battery should only need to be changed every 2-3 years depending on use.
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Can I operate the pipette plugged in?
Yes.
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What does the “c” on the display mean?
A “c” will be displaced on the lower left area of the display only when the pipette has been set to a calibration factor of other than the factory setting of 1.000. A setting of other than 1.000 may be required when a change in performance (accuracy) as a result of environmental conditions, pipetting techniques or viscosity or density of liquids being pipetted is noted.
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My hands are small and I’ve had trouble with other multichannel pipette getting tips to stay on. Will I have trouble with the Ovation?
With the Ovation multichannel pipettes, you can push on the back of the nozzle head with your other hand. For extra holding power, press and rock the pipette after the the click is heard. By using both hands to seat the tips, you are actually dividing up the force between the hands and arms so that no one body part works too hard or becomes fatigued. Other pipettes do not offer this feature and on many models, pushing on the head would eject the tips.
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