Gemini Software Manual V4 - KU Leuven · 2003. 2. 27. · February 2003 Gemini Software Manual -...

Gemini Software Manual V4.1

391201 V4.1Issued February 2003

Information provided by TECAN Software GmbH is believed to be accurate and reliable. However, the user is responsible for the proper and correct use of the product. No license is granted by acquisition of the product for any patent or patent rights of TECAN. If the user does not follow the instructions given in this Manual, TECAN does not take any responsibility for injuries or damages caused by the TECAN product.

The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice.

© 2001, 2002 TECAN Software GmbH, all rights reserved.

Table of ContentsTECAN

Table of Contents

1 About This Manual........................................................................ 1

1.1 About the Gemini software................................................................................... 1

1.2 About the Gemini online help system................................................................... 2

1.3 Intended audience for this manual ....................................................................... 2

1.4 Related documentation ........................................................................................ 3

1.5 Warning, cautions and notes................................................................................ 3

2 Product Support ........................................................................... 5

3 System Setup ................................................................................ 9

3.1 System requirements ........................................................................................... 9

3.2 Supported pipetting instruments and Tecan options.......................................... 10

3.3 Standard and advanced hardlocks..................................................................... 12

3.4 Installation.......................................................................................................... 12

3.5 Upgrading to the latest software version............................................................ 13

4 Menus .......................................................................................... 15

4.1 File menu ........................................................................................................... 154.1.1 New / Open / Close / Save / Save As.................................................................164.1.2 Print / Print Preview / Print Setup .......................................................................164.1.3 Backup Data / Recover Data .............................................................................164.1.4 Data Explorer ....................................................................................................174.1.5 Recent files list ...................................................................................................194.1.6 Logout ...............................................................................................................194.1.7 Quit Gemini ........................................................................................................19

4.2 Edit menu........................................................................................................... 204.2.1 Cut / Copy / Paste ..............................................................................................204.2.2 Edit / Delete / Insert New Command ..................................................................20

4.3 Setup menu........................................................................................................ 224.3.1 Configuration ......................................................................................................224.3.2 Liquid Classes ....................................................................................................224.3.3 Settings .............................................................................................................234.3.3.1 Maintenance counters .....................................................................................274.3.4 Arm initialization ................................................................................................274.3.5 External Devices ...............................................................................................284.3.6 Te-MO Configuration .........................................................................................29

4.4 Execute menu .................................................................................................... 314.4.1 Initialize Instrument ...........................................................................................314.4.2 Flush Instrument ................................................................................................324.4.3 Drop DITIs .........................................................................................................344.4.4 Reset Options ....................................................................................................344.4.5 Fill System (Active Tips) ....................................................................................364.4.6 Fill system (Te-MO 384) ....................................................................................374.4.7 Switch on/off Doorlocks......................................................................................384.4.8 Send Firmware Command ................................................................................38

February 2003 Gemini Software Manual - 391201 V4.1 TOC-1

Table of Contents TECAN

4.4.9 Set DITI Position ............................................................................................... 394.4.10 Loading the Te-MO ........................................................................................... 394.4.11 Initialize Te-MO ................................................................................................. 404.4.12 Validate.............................................................................................................. 424.4.13 Start ................................................................................................................... 424.4.14 Pause................................................................................................................. 424.4.15 Continue ............................................................................................................ 424.4.16 Abort .................................................................................................................. 424.4.17 Start at line ........................................................................................................ 424.4.18 Undefined Variables .......................................................................................... 42

4.5 View menu.......................................................................................................... 434.5.1 Log window ....................................................................................................... 434.5.2 Emergency Stop window .................................................................................. 434.5.2.1 Reaction to emergency stop dialog box .......................................................... 444.5.3 Variables window .............................................................................................. 454.5.4 Info window ....................................................................................................... 454.5.5 Audit Trail .......................................................................................................... 454.5.6 Toolbar .............................................................................................................. 454.5.6.1 Getting help on toolbar buttons ....................................................................... 464.5.6.2 Customizing the toolbars ................................................................................ 464.5.6.3 Toolbar buttons for VB Scripts......................................................................... 474.5.6.4 Toolbar buttons for external programs ............................................................ 474.5.7 Status Bar ......................................................................................................... 484.5.8 Command Bar ................................................................................................... 49

4.6 Window menu..................................................................................................... 504.6.1 Cascade............................................................................................................. 504.6.2 Tile ..................................................................................................................... 504.6.3 Arrange Icons .................................................................................................... 50

4.7 Help menu .......................................................................................................... 514.7.1 Help Topics ....................................................................................................... 514.7.2 About Gemini .................................................................................................... 51

5 Tecan User Management system...............................................53

5.1 Main features of the Tecan User Management System..................................... 535.1.1 User management audit trail.............................................................................. 54

5.2 Setting up users and groups .............................................................................. 55

5.3 Gemini access rights (user levels) ..................................................................... 57

6 Specifying the GENESIS configuration in Gemini ...................59

6.1 Configuration Editor ........................................................................................... 59

6.2 Basic concepts ................................................................................................... 616.2.1 Introduction to carriers and racks ...................................................................... 61

6.3 Moving the arms................................................................................................. 636.3.1 Moving the LiHa ................................................................................................ 636.3.2 Moving the RoMa .............................................................................................. 656.3.3 Moving the PnP ................................................................................................ 666.3.4 Moving the Te-MO ............................................................................................ 686.3.5 Moving the PosID ............................................................................................. 69

6.4 Configuring racks .............................................................................................. 716.4.1 Rack coordinates ............................................................................................... 74

TOC-2 Gemini Software Manual - 391201 V4.1 February 2003


6.4.2 Rack types..........................................................................................................78

6.5 Rack Wizard....................................................................................................... 806.5.1 Rack Wizard, step 1 of 5 ...................................................................................806.5.2 Rack Wizard, step 2 of 5 ...................................................................................826.5.3 Rack Wizard, step 3 of 5 ...................................................................................846.5.4 Rack Wizard, step 4 of 5 ...................................................................................866.5.5 Rack Wizard, step 5 of 5 ...................................................................................87

6.6 Configuring carriers ........................................................................................... 896.6.1 Carrier dimensions and X/Y offsets....................................................................916.6.2 Z offsets for carriers ...........................................................................................926.6.3 Custom objects...................................................................................................92

6.7 Carrier Wizard .................................................................................................... 936.7.1 Carrier Wizard, step 1 of 3 ................................................................................936.7.2 Carrier Wizard, step 2 of 3 ................................................................................946.7.3 Carrier Wizard, step 3 of 3 ................................................................................95

6.8 Defining RoMa vectors ...................................................................................... 97

6.9 RoMa Vector Wizard ........................................................................................ 1016.9.1 RoMa Vector Wizard, step 1 of 2 ....................................................................1016.9.2 RoMa Vector Wizard, step 2 of 2 ....................................................................102

6.10 Defining PNP Vectors ..................................................................................... 104

6.11 PnP Vector Wizard........................................................................................... 1076.11.1 PnP Vector Wizard, step 1 of 2 .......................................................................1076.11.2 PnP Vector Wizard, step 2 of 2 .......................................................................108

6.12 Configuring the LiHa ....................................................................................... 110

6.13 Configuring the PosID ..................................................................................... 113

6.14 Configuring the MPO/LICOS ........................................................................... 114

6.15 Configuring the ChemSystem ......................................................................... 115

6.16 Configuring Active Tips ................................................................................... 116

6.17 Safety features for the Genesis instrument...................................................... 117

6.18 Configuring the Doorlocks ............................................................................... 118

7 Liquid Classes .......................................................................... 119

7.1 Liquid Classes Editor ...................................................................................... 1197.1.1 Global parameters ...........................................................................................121

7.2 Liquid classes for fixed tips and DITIs.............................................................. 1227.2.1 Type parameters (fixed tips and DITIs) ...........................................................1227.2.2 Aspirate parameters (fixed tips and DITIs) ......................................................1237.2.3 Dispense parameters (fixed tips and DITIs) ....................................................1277.2.4 Calibration parameters (fixed tips and DITIs) ..................................................130

7.3 Liquid classes for NPS (Active Tips) ................................................................ 1317.3.1 Type parameters (Active Tips) .........................................................................1317.3.2 Aspirate parameters (Active Tips) ....................................................................1327.3.3 Dispense parameters (Active Tips) ..................................................................1337.3.4 Calibration parameters (Active Tips) ...............................................................134

7.4 Te-MO 96 liquid classes................................................................................... 136



7.4.1 Te-MO 96 Type parameters (fixed tips and DITIs) .......................................... 1367.4.2 Te-MO 96 Aspirate parameters (fixed tips and DITIs) ..................................... 1367.4.3 Te-MO 96 Dispense parameters (fixed tips and DITIs) ................................... 1407.4.4 Te-MO 96 Calibration parameters (fixed tips and DITIs) ................................. 143

7.5 Te-MO 384 liquid classes................................................................................. 1447.5.1 Te-MO 384 Type parameters (with or without Impulse technology) ................ 1447.5.2 Te-MO 384 Aspirate parameters (with or without Impulse technology) ........... 1447.5.3 Te-MO 384 Dispense parameters (without Impulse technology)..................... 1457.5.4 Te-MO 384 Dispense parameters (with Impulse technology).......................... 1467.5.5 Te-MO 384 Calibration parameters (without Impulse technology) .................. 1467.5.6 Te-MO 384 Calibration parameters (with Impulse technology) ....................... 1477.5.7 Te-MO 384 Plunger parameters (without Impulse technology) ...................... 1497.5.8 Te-MO 384 Synchronization parameters (with Impulse technology) .............. 150

8 Gemini Script Commands - Overview .....................................153

8.1 Command Bar ................................................................................................. 1538.1.1 Commands toolbars ........................................................................................ 154

8.2 List of Gemini script commands ....................................................................... 1548.2.1 Pipetting commands ........................................................................................ 1558.2.2 Advanced pipetting commands........................................................................ 1568.2.3 Script programming commands....................................................................... 1578.2.4 Te-MO commands ........................................................................................... 1588.2.5 Commands for storage devices ....................................................................... 1608.2.6 Commands for robotic devices ........................................................................ 1608.2.7 Commands for optional devices and accessories ........................................... 161

9 Creating a Pipetting Script .......................................................163

9.1 First steps......................................................................................................... 163

9.2 The Worktable window .................................................................................... 1639.2.1 Adding carriers and racks to the worktable...................................................... 1649.2.2 Assigning a label (or name) to the racks ........................................................ 168

9.3 Specifying script commands............................................................................. 169

9.4 Creating a Gemini script .................................................................................. 170

10 Validating, Starting and Stopping a Script .............................177

10.1 Validating a script ............................................................................................ 17710.1.1 Gemini Errors dialog box ................................................................................ 177

10.2 Starting a script ............................................................................................... 178

10.3 Pausing a script ............................................................................................... 178

10.4 Continuing a script ........................................................................................... 179

10.5 Stopping a script .............................................................................................. 179

10.6 Starting a script at a certain line ...................................................................... 179

10.7 Undefined Variables option .............................................................................. 179

10.8 Sample scripts.................................................................................................. 179

11 Advanced Programming Features...........................................181

11.1 Variables and expressions ............................................................................... 181



11.1.1 Defining and setting a variable .........................................................................18111.1.2 Querying the value of a numeric variable during runtime.................................18411.1.3 Pre-defined variables .......................................................................................18511.1.3.1 CENTRIFUGE_RACK_CNT ..........................................................................18511.1.3.2 COPY_CNT....................................................................................................18511.1.3.3 DETECTED_VOLUME_x...............................................................................18511.1.3.4 RACK_OFFSET.............................................................................................18511.1.3.5 RACK_VOLUME_X........................................................................................18611.1.3.6 REPLICATE_CNT..........................................................................................18611.1.3.7 SAMPLE_CNT ...............................................................................................18611.1.3.8 TUBE_CNT ....................................................................................................18711.1.3.9 WELL_OFFSET .............................................................................................18811.1.4 Querying the value of a string variable during runtime.....................................18811.1.5 Commands which support string variables.......................................................18911.1.6 Expressions......................................................................................................19011.1.7 Commands which support expressions and numeric variables........................19211.1.8 Converting variables and expressions to a string.............................................19411.1.9 Commands which support variables and expressions converted to a string....19511.1.10 Validating a script which contains variables .....................................................196

11.2 Conditions ........................................................................................................ 196

11.3 Sub-routines..................................................................................................... 19711.3.1 Creating a sub-routine......................................................................................19711.3.2 Sub-routine command ......................................................................................19711.3.3 Exchanging data with sub-routines ..................................................................19811.3.4 Validating a script which contains sub-routines................................................19811.3.5 Log file for a script which contains sub-routines...............................................199

11.4 Loop options .................................................................................................... 199

12 Gemini Script Commands........................................................ 201

12.1 Aspirate command .......................................................................................... 201

12.2 Dispense command ........................................................................................ 203

12.3 Mix command .................................................................................................. 205

12.4 Wash Tips command ...................................................................................... 207

12.5 Periodic Wash command ................................................................................ 209

12.6 Get DITIs command ........................................................................................ 212

12.7 Drop DITIs command ...................................................................................... 213

12.8 Set DITI Position command ............................................................................ 214

12.9 Pick Up DITIs command ................................................................................. 215

12.10 Set DITIs Back command ............................................................................... 217

12.11 Pickup ZipTip command .................................................................................. 218

12.12 Detect Liquid command .................................................................................. 220

12.13 Copy Plate command ...................................................................................... 222

12.14 Replicates command ....................................................................................... 225

12.15 Serial Dilution command ................................................................................. 228

12.16 Merge Plates command .................................................................................. 231

12.17 Transfer command .......................................................................................... 234



12.18 Worklist command ........................................................................................... 23712.18.1 Worklist file format ........................................................................................... 23812.18.2 Worklist using rack labels ................................................................................ 24012.18.3 Worklist using rack barcodes........................................................................... 24112.18.4 Worklist using tube barcodes........................................................................... 24112.18.5 Advanced worklist features.............................................................................. 242

12.19 Export Data command ..................................................................................... 24312.19.1 File names for rack report files ........................................................................ 24412.19.2 Report file format ............................................................................................. 245

12.20 Worklist Import command ................................................................................ 249

12.21 Start Timer command ...................................................................................... 251

12.22 Wait for Timer command ................................................................................. 25112.22.1 Wait for Timer user prompt ............................................................................. 252

12.23 Execute Application command ........................................................................ 253

12.24 Comment command ........................................................................................ 254

12.25 User Prompt command ................................................................................... 25412.25.1 User Prompt message box ............................................................................. 255

12.26 Begin Loop command ..................................................................................... 256

12.27 End Loop command ........................................................................................ 256

12.28 Set Variable command .................................................................................... 257

12.29 Set String Variable command .......................................................................... 258

12.30 Condition command ........................................................................................ 259

12.31 Sub-Routine command .................................................................................... 260

12.32 Execute VB Script command ........................................................................... 26212.32.1 Toolbar buttons for VB Scripts......................................................................... 263

12.33 Notification command ...................................................................................... 264

12.34 Start Script command ...................................................................................... 265

12.35 Te-MO commands............................................................................................ 26712.35.1 Te-MO Aspirate command .............................................................................. 26812.35.2 Te-MO Dispense command ............................................................................ 27012.35.3 Te-MO Mix command ..................................................................................... 27212.35.4 Te-MO Wash command .................................................................................. 27312.35.5 Te-MO 384 Wash Tip Head command ........................................................... 27512.35.6 Te-MO Get DITIs command ........................................................................... 27712.35.7 Te-MO Drop DITIs command ......................................................................... 27812.35.8 Te-MO Get Tip Block command ..................................................................... 27912.35.9 Te-MO Drop Tip Block command ................................................................... 28012.35.10 Te-MO Refill Trough command ...................................................................... 28112.35.11 Te-MO Te-Stack Drop Rack command .......................................................... 28212.35.12 Te-MO Te-Stack Pickup Rack command ....................................................... 28312.35.13 Te-MO Relative Movements command .......................................................... 284

12.36 Te-Stack command ......................................................................................... 287

12.37 Carousel commands ........................................................................................ 28912.37.1 Carousel Scan Barcodes command ............................................................... 28912.37.2 Carousel Retrieve command .......................................................................... 290



12.37.3 Carousel Return command .............................................................................29112.37.4 Carousel Direct Movements command ...........................................................29212.37.5 Carousel settings in Gemini.opt .......................................................................293

12.38 RoMa vectors ................................................................................................... 29512.38.1 Defining a RoMa only carrier ............................................................................29512.38.2 Defining a RoMa vector ....................................................................................29712.38.3 RoMa Vector command ...................................................................................29812.38.4 Move RoMa command ....................................................................................29912.38.5 Using a RoMa vector in a script .......................................................................30112.38.6 Defining the home position for a RoMa ............................................................303

12.39 PnP vectors...................................................................................................... 30412.39.1 Defining a PnP vector.......................................................................................30512.39.2 PnP Vector command .....................................................................................30612.39.3 Move PnP command .......................................................................................30712.39.4 Using a PnP vector in a script ..........................................................................30912.39.5 Defining the home position for a PnP...............................................................311

12.40 Move LiHa command ...................................................................................... 313

12.41 Send Command command ............................................................................. 315

12.42 PosID command .............................................................................................. 31712.42.1 POSID command (Barcode Types tab) ...........................................................318

12.43 Barcode Scanner command ............................................................................ 32012.43.1 Barcode Scanner command (Barcode Types tab) ..........................................321

12.44 Doorlocks command ....................................................................................... 324

12.45 Te-VacS (Vacuum Separator) command ........................................................ 325

12.46 Te-MagS (Magnetic Separator) command ...................................................... 328

12.47 System command ........................................................................................... 330

12.48 Waste command ............................................................................................. 331

12.49 Variomag command ........................................................................................ 333

12.50 Shaker command ............................................................................................ 334

12.51 Connection Box command .............................................................................. 336

12.52 MIO command ................................................................................................. 337

12.53 Execute Magellan Method command .............................................................. 339

12.54 Execute WinWash Program command ........................................................... 344

12.55 Waterbath Control command .......................................................................... 347

12.56 Centrifuge command ....................................................................................... 348

12.57 Balance command .......................................................................................... 350

12.58 Active WashStation command ........................................................................ 351

13 Error Handling........................................................................... 353

13.1 Liquid error ...................................................................................................... 353

13.2 Clot error ......................................................................................................... 355

13.3 Instrument error ............................................................................................... 356

13.4 Diluter error ..................................................................................................... 358



13.5 Doorlock error................................................................................................... 359

13.6 DITI Fetch error ............................................................................................... 360

13.7 Lost DITI error ................................................................................................. 361

13.8 DITI Already Mounted error.............................................................................. 362

13.9 Te-MO DITI error.............................................................................................. 363

13.10 Barcode error .................................................................................................. 36313.10.1 Enter Barcode.................................................................................................. 364

13.11 Grip error ......................................................................................................... 366

13.12 WRC/Te-MO error ........................................................................................... 367

13.13 WRC Empty and WRC Overflow errors .......................................................... 368

13.14 Magellan error .................................................................................................. 370

13.15 Vacuum Waste Container error........................................................................ 370

13.16 Setup port for Magellan .................................................................................... 372

13.17 WinWash Plus Liquid Error ............................................................................. 37313.17.1 Other WinWash Plus errors ............................................................................. 373

13.18 Te-Stack errors ................................................................................................ 375

14 Example Script ..........................................................................379

14.1 Typical application of a Gemini script............................................................... 379

15 Appendix A ................................................................................ A-1

15.1 How to create a custom default worktable ........................................................A-1

15.2 Standard options for carriers and racks ............................................................A-1

15.3 How to create additional carriers.......................................................................A-1

15.4 Error messages .................................................................................................A-3

15.5 Structure of the log files.....................................................................................A-515.5.1 Structure of the trace file (audit trail).................................................................A-9

15.6 Gemini directory structure and files.................................................................A-10

15.7 Backing up your Gemini system and Gemini data ..........................................A-14

15.8 Command line parameters ..............................................................................A-14

15.9 Glossary of terms and instrument options.......................................................A-15

16 Appendix B - FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance.......................B-1

16.1 Related documentation .....................................................................................B-1

16.2 Purpose of this appendix...................................................................................B-1

16.3 Definitions and Acronyms..................................................................................B-3

16.4 Recommendations ............................................................................................B-716.4.1 Assigning and using Gemini user names .........................................................B-8

16.5 Security features in Gemini which assist 21 CFR Part 11 compliance..............B-816.5.1 Closed systems ................................................................................................B-816.5.2 Gemini user levels ............................................................................................B-9



16.5.3 Tecan User Management System.................................................................. B-1016.5.3.1 User management audit trail ........................................................................ B-1116.5.4 Electronic Signatures ..................................................................................... B-1116.5.5 Trace file (audit trail)....................................................................................... B-1216.5.6 Log files .......................................................................................................... B-1216.5.7 Log reason feature ......................................................................................... B-1316.5.8 Checksums..................................................................................................... B-1416.5.9 Backing up files .............................................................................................. B-14

16.6 Part A - General Provisions.............................................................................B-1416.6.1 § 11.1 Scope .................................................................................................. B-1416.6.1.1 § 11.1(a) Criteria .......................................................................................... B-1516.6.1.2 § 11.1(b) Records in electronic form ............................................................ B-1516.6.1.3 § 11.1(c) Electronic signatures..................................................................... B-1516.6.1.4 § 11.1(d) Electronic records ......................................................................... B-1616.6.1.5 § 11.1(e) Computer systems........................................................................ B-1616.6.2 § 11.2 Implementation.................................................................................... B-1616.6.2.1 § 11.2(a) Required records .......................................................................... B-1616.6.2.2 § 11.2(b) Submitted records......................................................................... B-1716.6.2.3 § 11.2(b) Requirements ............................................................................... B-1716.6.2.4 § 11.2(b) Identification.................................................................................. B-17

16.7 Part B - Electronic Records.............................................................................B-1816.7.1 § 11.10 Control of closed systems ................................................................. B-1816.7.1.1 § 11.10(a) Validation of System ................................................................... B-1816.7.1.2 § 11.10 (b) Ability to generate accurate and complete copies of records. ... B-2016.7.1.3 § 11.10 (c) Protection of records.................................................................. B-2216.7.1.4 § 11.10 (d) Limiting system access to authorized individuals ...................... B-2316.7.1.5 § 11.10 (e) Use of computer-generated, time-stamped audit trails.............. B-2416.7.1.6 § 11.10 (f) Use of operational system checks to enforce permitted sequencing of

steps and eventsB-2516.7.1.7 § 11.10 (g) Use of authority checks ............................................................. B-2616.7.1.8 § 11.10 (h) Use of device checks to determine the validity of the source of data

inputB-2616.7.1.9 § 11.10 (i) Determine that employees have the education, training and experi-

ence to perform the assigned tasksB-2716.7.1.10 § 11.10 (j) Written policy that holds individuals accountable and responsible for

their actionsB-2716.7.1.11 § 11.10 (k) Use of appropriate controls over systems documentation ......... B-2816.7.2 § 11.30 Controls for open systems................................................................. B-2816.7.2.1 § 11.30 Controls for open systems .............................................................. B-2816.7.3 § 11.50 Signature manifestations................................................................... B-2816.7.3.1 § 11.50 (a) Signature manifestation ............................................................. B-2916.7.3.2 § 11.50 (a) Printed name of signer............................................................... B-2916.7.3.3 § 11.50 (a) Date and time of signature......................................................... B-2916.7.3.4 § 11.50(a) Meaning associated with signature............................................. B-2916.7.4 § 11.70 Signature/ record linking.................................................................... B-29

16.8 Part C - Electronic Signatures.........................................................................B-3116.8.1 § 11.100 General requirements...................................................................... B-3116.8.1.1 § 11.100 (a) Uniqueness.............................................................................. B-3116.8.1.2 § 11.100 (b) Verify identity ........................................................................... B-3116.8.1.3 § 11.100 (c) Legally binding signature ......................................................... B-3116.8.2 § 11.200 Electronic signature components and controls................................ B-3216.8.2.1 § 11.200(a) Non-biometric signatures.......................................................... B-3216.8.2.2 § 11.200(a) Employ at least two distinct identifications................................ B-3216.8.2.3 § 11.200(a) Series of signings during continuous system access ............... B-33



16.8.2.4 § 11.200(a) Signing during non continuous system access .........................B-3316.8.2.5 § 11.200(a) Genuine owner of signature ......................................................B-3316.8.2.6 § 11.200(a) Administered signature .............................................................B-3316.8.2.7 § 11.200(b) Biometric signatures..................................................................B-3316.8.3 § 11.300 Controls for identification codes/ passwords ...................................B-3416.8.3.1 § 11.300(a) Maintaining uniqueness ............................................................B-3416.8.3.2 § 11.300(b) Check identification ...................................................................B-3416.8.3.3 § 11.300(c) Loss management.....................................................................B-3416.8.3.4 § 11.300(d) Prevent unauthorized use .........................................................B-3416.8.3.5 § 11.300(e) Periodic testing..........................................................................B-35

16.9 Gemini installation checklist ............................................................................B-3516.9.1 Before installing Gemini ..................................................................................B-3516.9.2 Installing Gemini .............................................................................................B-3616.9.3 After installing Gemini .....................................................................................B-36

List of Figures

List of Tables

Index


1 - About This ManualTECAN

1 About This Manual

This manual describes the Gemini pipetting software for the GENESIS series of pipetting instruments.

1.1 About the Gemini software

Gemini provides a graphical user interface for controlling the GENESIS instrument that facilitates the liquid handling needs of a wide range of life science applications, including both routine and research activities. Gemini can either be used stand alone for controlling Genesis and Genesis Freedom pipetting instruments or together with the Tecan dynamic scheduling software FACTS.

The Gemini software allows the user to develop Gemini programs (which are normally called scripts) and to quickly visualize how a process can be implemented. Script commands are provided for a wide range of Tecan hardware options and the scripting system is designed for maximum flexibility when developing complex custom scripts. When the script is ready, Gemini controls the pipetting run by sending control signals to the GENESIS instrument through a data connection. If operator interaction is necessary, Gemini can display a dialog box on the display of the workstation which prompts for the information which is needed.

Gemini V4.1 is not certified for IVD applications (In Vitro Diagnostics).

Gemini’s external programming interface which uses named pipes allows you to integrate Gemini into third party products or custom applications or to use Gemini components within other Tecan products running on the same computer or a different computer in the network.

It is instructive for new users of Gemini to load the sample scripts which are provided and to work through each script by reviewing the on-line help (see also “Glossary of terms and instrument options” on page A-15).

This manual instructs the user how to:

• install the Gemini software,

• set up instrument and configuration data,

• define the worktable,

• define the pipetting scheme,

• start pipetting runs, and

• react to errors during pipetting.

February 2003 Gemini Software Manual - 391201 V4.1 1

1 - About This Manual TECAN

1.2 About the Gemini online help system

Gemini is provided with extensive context-sensitive online help. When Gemini is running, press F1 to get help on the current screen, dialog box or operation you are performing.

Click in the toolbar or press Shift+F1 and click on an object such as a toolbar button

to get help on the object.

Click in the toolbar or press Shift+F1 and choose a menu item to get help on the

menu item.

The Search tab (full text search function) lets you use the wild cards ? (one additional character) and * (one or more additional characters). For example, variable* finds variable and variables.

If you specify more than one search term, they are treated as alternatives (OR function). Use quotes "" to look for strings. The search terms are not case sensitive.

Refer to the Microsoft documentation if you need more information on using Microsoft HTML Help. The online help uses the same numbering scheme for headings etc. as the printed manual. Help is not provided for standard Windows operations such as Cut and Paste.

1.3 Intended audience for this manual

This manual is intended for laboratory specialists who need to develop programs (or scripts) for the GENESIS series of pipetting instruments. It is assumed that such specialists are already acquainted with standard laboratory procedures for handling and pipetting liquids as described in standard textbooks on this subject.

This manual is also helpful for operators of the GENESIS pipetting instruments to give an overview of the wide range of potential applications and instrument options which are available, and to help to understand the function of the pipetting scripts which they want to run.

2 Gemini Software Manual - 391201 V4.1 February 2003

1 - About This ManualTECAN

1.4 Related documentation

The following Tecan documentation provides additional information which can be useful when using this manual:

• Te-MO Operating Manual - Doc ID 391733,

• Command Set, PosID firmware - Doc ID 391141.

• Te-Flow Manual - Doc ID 391845.

These manuals can be ordered from your nearest Tecan representative (see “Product Support” on page 5).

1.5 Warning, cautions and notes

Three types of informational notices are used in this manual. They highlight important information or warn the user of a potentially dangerous situation. The following notices have the same level of importance throughout this manual.

Warning:

Indicates the possibility of severe personal injury, loss of life, or equipment damage if the instructions are not followed.

Caution:

Indicates the possibility of severe instrument damage or loss of data if instructions are not followed.

Note:

Gives helpful information about the equipment or situation.


1 - About This Manual TECAN


2 - Product SupportTECAN

2 Product Support

How to get help

Tecan and its representatives maintain a fully trained staff of technical specialists around the world. For any questions regarding Tecan products, please contact your local distributor or any of the following addresses. Information is also available on the Tecan web site www.tecan.com.

Head Office:

Switzerland

Tecan Sales Switzerland AG

Seestrasse 103

CH-8708 Männedorf

Switzerland

Telephone +41 1 922 8922

Telefax +41 1 922 8923

eMail [email protected]

TECAN Regional Organizations:

Asia

Tecan Asia (Pte) Ltd.

80, Marine Parade #13-04

Singapore 449 269

Telephone +65 64441 886

Telefax +65 64441 836


Austria

Tecan Sales Internat. GmbH

Untersbergstrasse 1a

5082 Grödig / Salzburg

Telephone +43 6246 8933 0

Telefax +43 6246 7277 0


Belgium

Tecan Benelux B.V.B.A

Vaartdijk 55

B-2800 Mechelen

Telephone +32 15 421319

Telefax +32 15 421612


France

Tecan France S.A.

Parc d’Activités de Pissaloup

Bâtiment Hermes II

27, Rue Edouard Branly

F-78190 Trappes

Telephone +33 1 3068 8150

Telefax +33 1 3068 9813



2 - Product Support TECAN

Germany

Tecan Deutschland GmbH

Theodor-Storm-Strasse 17

D-74564 Crailsheim

Telephone +49 7951 9417 0

Telefax +49 7951 5038


Great Britain

Tecan UK

Theale Court

11-13 High Street

Theale, UK-Reading

Berkshire RG7 5AH

Telephone +44 118 930 0300

Telefax +44 118 930 5671


Italy

Tecan Italia, S.r.l.

Via Fratelli Cerci

Palazzo Bernini

Centro Direzionale Milano 2

I-20090 Sergate (Mi)

Telephone +39 02 215 2128

Telefax +39 02 215 97441


Japan

Tecan (Japan) Co. Ltd.

Meiji Seimei Fuchu Building 10F

1-40, Miyamachi

Fuchu City, Tokyo

Telephone +81 4 2334 8855

Telefax +81 4 2334 0401


Netherlands

Tecan Benelux B.V.B.A.

Industrieweg 30

NL-4283 Giessen

Telephone +31 183 448 174

Telefax +31 183 448 067


Scandinavia

Tecan Nordic AB

Box 208

SE-43123 Mölndal

Sweden

Telephone +46 31 7544 000

Telefax +46 31 7544 010


Spain

Tecan Spain

Sabino de Arana 32

E-08028 Barcelona

Telephone +34 93 4900 174

Telefax +34 94 4112 407



2 - Product SupportTECAN

USA

Tecan U.S.

P.O. Box 13953

Research Triangle Park

NC 27709, USA

Telephone +1 919 361 5200

Telefax +1 919 361 5201


USA

Tecan Systems Inc.

(formerly Cavro)

2450 Zanker Road

San Jose

Telephone +1 408 953 3100

Telefax +1 408 953 31 07


CA 95131, USA


2 - Product Support TECAN


3 - System SetupTECAN

3 System Setup

This chapter describes the steps required to install and set up the Gemini software and to set up the GENESIS instrument.

3.1 System requirements

The Gemini software has the following minimum hardware and software requirements:

• An IBM-compatible computer with Microsoft Windows NT version 4.0 (Service Pack 4 or later), Windows 2000 (Service Pack 2 or later) or Windows XP;

• Pentium II 300 MHz or higher; at least 128 MB RAM;

• About 1 GB of unused hard disk space for the standard Gemini software, optional software components, scripts and log files;

• An SVGA monitor with 32768 colors or more and a minimum resolution of 1024x768 pixels; to ensure correct display of the dialog boxes, we recommend you to configure your display settings in the Control Panel for Small Fonts;

• 100 MB of virtual memory;

• A Gemini hardlock (a copy protection device which is plugged into the parallel interface of the computer). This is often called a dongle;

• 1 parallel interface for the hardlock (you can connect a printer to the back of the hardlock if necessary);

• 1 unused serial interface for the data interface to the GENESIS instrument;

• Additional serial interfaces are required by some of the instrument options (e.g. the Mettler balance);

• Printer (optional):


3 - System Setup TECAN

3.2 Supported pipetting instruments and Tecan options

The Gemini V4.1 software is designed for the following Tecan pipetting instruments:

• Genesis RSP 100, 150, 200

• Genesis RWS 100, 150, 200

• Genesis NPS 100, 150

• Genesis Freedom 100, 150, 200

The Gemini V4.1 software supports the following Genesis options and systems:

• Liquid Handling Arm (LiHa) with 4 or 8 tips

• Standard tips, low volume tips and disposable tips (DITIs)

• Low Volume Option

• NPS system (Nanopipetting System) for up to 8 tips

• Lower DITI Tip Eject option

• Robot Manipulator (RoMa), standard and long version

• Pick and Place arm (PnP)

• PosID2 Barcode Scanner

• Fast Wash Option (FWO)

• Monitored Pump Option (MPO)

• Liquid Container Supervisor (LICOS)

• ChemSystem (incl. 6-way valve) for up to six different system liquids

• Vacuum Assisted Waste option for viscous liquids

• Te-MO 5/3 and Te-MO 3/3 (Tecan Multipipetting Option)

• Te-MO 96-tip pipetting head

• Te-MO 384-tip pipetting head with or without Impulse technology

• Wash & Refill Center for Te-MO

• Te-Stack (Tecan Microplate Stacker) for Te-MO

• Te-Stack (Tecan Microplate Stacker), stand-alone (max. 4 stackers, 2 stacks each)

• Te-VacS (Tecan SPE Vacuum Separator)

• Te-VacS (Tecan SPE Vacuum Separator) for the ProTeam Digest workstation

• Columbus dispenser for the ProTeam Digest workstation

• Te-MagS (Tecan Magnetic Bead Separator)

• Te-Shake (Orbital Shaker)



• MIO (Monitored Incubator Option)

• Liconic Carousel/Carousel HS with or without barcode scanner

• Connection Box for the Te-Flow (In Situ Hybridization) option

• Huber Recirculator for the Te-Flow (In Situ Hybridization) option

• Symbol LS1220 Barcode Scanner

• Mettler Balance

• Hettich Centrifuge

• H+P Variomag

• PW96, PW384 and Columbus plate washers (via WinWash Plus software)

• Tecan Magellan photometer software with Tecan microplate readers

• Tecan doorlocks

• Tecan pause/restart button

• Tecan Access/Status option (status lamp/siren unit)



3.3 Standard and advanced hardlocks

Gemini is available with two different software feature levels. Whereas the software on the CD which is supplied is the same in both cases, the additional features provided by the advanced feature level are enabled by using the Advanced hardlock (sometimes called a dongle). The Standard hardlock does not support the following commands:

• Gemini commands Move ROMA, ROMA_VECTOR, Move PnP and PnP_VECTOR.

• Named-Pipe commands ROMA_GRIP, ROMA_MOVE, ROMA_RELATIVE, SET_ROMA_BARCODE, PNP_GRIP, PNP_MOVE, PNP_RELATIVE and SET_PNP_BARCODE.

The hardlock version you are currently using is shown in the Gemini status bar (see “Status Bar” on page 48).

See Gem_Pipe.pdf in the Gemini program directory for more information on the named pipes programming interface for Gemini.

3.4 Installation

Please proceed as follows to install the Gemini software:

• Insert the Gemini CD into your CD-ROM drive.

• Click the Start button on your Windows task bar.

• Choose Run.

• Type D:\SETUP, where D: is the drive letter of your CD-ROM drive.

• Click OK.

• After the installation program has started please follow the instructions on the screen.

Note:

Gemini runs in simulation mode if the hardlock or the GENESIS instrument cannot be detected. Firmware commands such as movement commands are not sent to the instrument in simulation mode (i.e. pipetting does not take place).

Caution:

You must use the Genesis Setup & Service software to check the reference positions. Otherwise your rack and carrier coordinates might be wrong. See the “Genesis Instrument Software Manual - Doc ID 390791”, “Setup & Service Software Module” for more information.



3.5 Upgrading to the latest software version

The steps required to upgrade your Gemini software to the latest version are dependent in part on the GENESIS instrument version and system options which you are already using. For this reason upgrading is normally carried out by a Tecan representative. Please see the README.TXT file in the Gemini program directory and the upgrade notes supplied with the product for additional information.

Where applicable, please observe your local regulations for certification of your GENESIS system.

It is strongly recommended to backup up you system and data files before upgrading (see “Backing up your Gemini system and Gemini data” on page A-14).

Gemini version V4.1 can read files created by Gemini version V3.2 or later. Files created with Gemini version V4.1 are generally not compatible with earlier versions of the software.

Gemini configuration files and script files are now protected by checksums (see “Data Explorer” on page 17). When upgrading from an earlier version of Gemini, the Data Explorer will initially show that all files have incorrect checksums since earlier Gemini versions did not support the checksum feature. A warning is shown if an attempt is made to load a file with an missing checksum. A checksum is added automatically when the file is saved.

Choose About Gemini in the Help menu if you want to check which version of Gemini you are using.

If toolbar buttons for new functions are missing after upgrading Gemini, reset the toolbar as described in “Toolbar” on page 45.

Caution:

The setup program overwrites existing Gemini installations. If you specify the same installation path which was used for an older version of Gemini, please back up your data first and copy it back after the installation is finished (see “Backing up your Gemini system and Gemini data” on page A-14 and “Upgrading to the latest software version”, below, for more information).


4 - MenusTECAN

4 Menus

This chapter describes the main menu options which are provided by the Gemini software. Each menu will be discussed in more detail in subsequent chapters.

Some of the menus and menu options in Gemini only appear after you have opened a script window. Furthermore, some of the menu options are only available if you have been given Administrator or Manager status by your system administrator.

Most of the features, buttons, menus and dialog boxes in Gemini are provided with context-sensitive help. See “About the Gemini online help system” on page 2 for more information.

4.1 File menu

This menu allows you to create a new Gemini script, to open an existing script, to print the contents of a script, to select a recent script or to quit Gemini:

Figure 4-1: File menu


4 - Menus TECAN

4.1.1 New / Open / Close / Save / Save As

These functions allow you to create, open and save Gemini scripts. Please note that Gemini script files have the extension .GEM and are normally stored in the .\Gemini\Data directory.

4.1.2 Print / Print Preview / Print Setup

If you have a printer connected to your computer, these functions allow you to print Gemini scripts. The following items are printed:

• The script

• The file name and location of the script file

• The worktable layout

• Page number, time and date

• Gemini user name

4.1.3 Backup Data / Recover Data

Choose Backup to make backup copies of the Gemini configuration files and script files to your local hard disk.The following files are backed up:

• Carrier.cfg

• Gemini.cfg

• Gemini.set

• Gemini.opt

• LClasses.dat

• All script files (*.gem)

Apart from Gemini.set, which is in the Gemini directory, all of the above files are located in the .\Gemini\Data directory.

Gemini creates a new sub-directory in the specified backup directory for each backup. The name of the new sub-directory is BACKUP_YYYYMMDD_HHMMSS, where YYYYMMDD is the date and HHMMSS is the time of the backup. See “Settings” on page 23 for information on specifying the backup directory; the default backup directory is .\Gemini\Backup.

Choose Recover to recover previously backed up Gemini configuration files and script flies. This copies all of the backed up files to the .\Gemini\Data directory and overwrites the existing files. A dialog box is shown to allow you to choose which backup version to recover.


4 - MenusTECAN

Choose Settings in the Setup menu to configure Gemini to make automatic backups at specified intervals (see “Settings” on page 23).

The backup and recovery operations are reported in the Gemini trace file.

See “Backing up your Gemini system and Gemini data” on page A-14 if you want to make an external backup of your Gemini installation.

4.1.4 Data Explorer

The Data Explorer is used to check whether the main Gemini configuration files and script files have valid checksums and to display information on modifications to these files.

The following files are protected by checksums:

• Carrier.cfg

• Gemini.cfg

• Gemini.set

• Gemini.opt

• LClasses.dat


• Log files

• Export files

• The trace file


4 - Menus TECAN

An incorrect checksum indicates that the file contents of the file may be corrupted or has been modified outside of Gemini by another program or process.

A warning is shown if an attempt is made to load a file with an incorrect or missing checksum. The user can then choose to load the file or cancel. In the latter case, Gemini aborts with the exception of script files (*.gem). In this case, the file is not loaded but Gemini remains running. The incorrect checksum warning can be disabled in the Settings dialog box by a user with Administrator rights (see “Evaluate file checksums” on page 26). An entry is written to the log file each time an incorrect or missing checksum is found.

When upgrading from an earlier version of Gemini, the Data Explorer will initially show that all files have incorrect checksums since earlier Gemini versions did not support the checksum feature. A warning is shown if an attempt is made to load a file with an missing checksum. Gemini automatically adds a checksum when the file is saved.

If you select a configuration file or script, the Data Explorer also shows the date and time of the last modification to the file alongside the name of the user who modified it and a comment to explain the reason for the change. See “Log Reason” on page 25 for additional information on this feature.

Figure 4-2: Data Explorer dialog box


4 - MenusTECAN

4.1.5 Recent files list

Gemini keeps a list of up to eight of the most recently opened scripts. You can load one of the recent scripts by choosing it from the list or by opening the File menu and pressing the corresponding digit on the keyboard.

4.1.6 Logout

This function is used to log out the current Gemini user. To prevent unauthorized use of Gemini, you should do this if you plan to leave the PC and the Genesis instrument unattended.

You must log in to Gemini again to regain control of the program.

Another use of the Logout function is to switch Gemini users when you are handing over to another employee due to a change of laboratory staff (evening shift etc.). In this case, you should log out and immediately log in again with the new user name.

If you log out while a script is running, the script continues to run. If necessary, you can stop the script (i.e. the pipetting) by clicking the Pause button. All other Gemini functions are disabled until you log in again.

4.1.7 Quit Gemini

This function closes all currently open scripts, de-initializes the instrument and quits Gemini.


4 - Menus TECAN

4.2 Edit menu

This menu allows you to edit, insert and delete Gemini script commands (see “Creating a Gemini script” on page 170):

If you choose Insert new command or press the Insert key, a floating menu appears with a list of all script commands. You also get the floating menu if you click on the script window with the right mouse button.

4.2.1 Cut / Copy / Paste

Gemini allows you to duplicate script commands using Copy & Paste. If you have more than one script opened at the same time, you can copy or move commands from one script to another.

4.2.2 Edit / Delete / Insert New Command

These functions are used to edit or delete existing script commands or to insert new script commands. New commands are inserted below the currently selected command, which is highlighted in color (the default color is light yellow). You can select a command by clicking with the mouse or by using the cursor keys. If you select the first line of the

Figure 4-3: Edit menu


4 - MenusTECAN

script, you will be asked whether to insert the new command above or below the current command.

Note:

You can also insert a command in your script by clicking on a button in the Command Bar or one of the commands toolbars, clicking with the right mouse button and choosing the command from the floating menu or by pressing the Insert key.


4 - Menus TECAN

4.3 Setup menu

After opening a Gemini script, this menu allows you to configure the pipetting instrument (see “Configuration Editor” on page 59), set up liquid classes (see “Liquid Classes” on page 119) and to configure general settings:

4.3.1 Configuration

See “Configuration Editor” on page 59.

4.3.2 Liquid Classes

See “Liquid Classes” on page 119.

Figure 4-4: Setup menu


4 - MenusTECAN

4.3.3 Settings

This function lets you configure general settings for the Gemini software. The following dialog box is shown:

Paths panelSpecify where Gemini should store data files and the trace file (Data), log files (Log), output files from the Export Data and POSID commands (Output) and backup files (Backup). Enter the required paths directly or click the Browse buttons and choose the required directories. You can also choose network directories. See “Gemini directory structure and files” on page A-10 for more information .

Baud rate / COM-PortSpecify the COM (V.24) port that the GENESIS instrument is connected to. You can also set the baud rate used for communication between Gemini and GENESIS. We recommend you to use a baud rate of 38,400 baud. See “External Devices” on page 28 for information on configuring COM ports for external devices such as the carousel or centrifuge.

SimulationWhen running in simulation mode, Gemini pauses for a certain time after executing each pipetting command. You can set the duration of the pause here.

LanguageSelect the required language of the user interface (German (Deutsch) or English).

Figure 4-5: Settings dialog box


4 - Menus TECAN

Initialising the instrumentGemini detects automatically whether the instrument needs to be initialized, and carries out initialization if necessary. If your instrument is equipped with a LiHa, during initialization it is moved above the left-most waste and all diluters are initialized. This can cause some liquid to drip from the tips. If you check the Deep in Waste checkbox, Gemini lowers the tips into the waste to minimize the risk of contamination during initialization. See also “Arm initialization” on page 27.

User managementThis button takes you to the Tecan User Management system. The Tecan User Management system is a central software module which handles user log in and user authorization for all Tecan software components. See “Tecan User Management system” on page 53 for more information.

Gemini is a closed system and access to Gemini requires you to enter a user name and password. Users are prompted to enter a user name and password during program start-up. Please note that user names and passwords are case-sensitive.

Maintenance panelClick Maintenance Settings to view the instrument’s internal counters for LiHa, RoMa and PnP movements (see “Maintenance counters” on page 27).

Check the Active checkbox in the Maintenance panel of the Settings dialog box if you want to activate automatic warnings when pre-defined instrument usage limits have been reached. When the limits have been reached, the user will be prompted to perform routine maintenance activities and the instrument will not start the pipetting run.

You need to have Administrator rights to activate the maintenance check and/or set the predefined limits for the counters (see “User management” on page 24).

After installing Gemini, the maintenance checkbox and button are initially disabled. To activate them, open the file Gemini.opt in the .\Gemini\Data directory with a plain text editor such as Notepad and add the entry DISABLE_MAINTENANCE=0 to the [OPTIONS] section (or edit the existing entry accordingly). You must restart Gemini for your changes to take effect.

Display panelIf required, you can choose an image such as a company logo to display as wallpaper in the background of the main Gemini window. Click the Browse button to choose the required file. The supported image file formats are .bmp, .dib, .gif, .jpg and .jpeg.

Choose Center, Tile or Stretch as required to achieve the required effect.

Caution:

Please check the coordinates of the waste before activating this option. Otherwise the tips might collide.


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In addition, you can choose an image or movie file to display while a script is running. Click the Browse button to choose the required file. The supported image file formats are .bmp, .dib, .gif, .jpg and .jpeg. The supported video file formats are .avi, .mpg and .mpeg.

Color of selected script lineA colored background is used to indicate the script line which is currently selected. The default color is light yellow. If required click on the color and use the color picker to choose another color. When a script line is selected, the same color is used to highlight the associated object in the Worktable window.

Log FilesGemini can create log files to document the pipetting, to record user actions, to help you to check scripts in simulation mode and to find errors.

Gemini users with administrator or manager status can activate three log file types with different levels of logging detail, either individually or in combination:

Check the Full checkbox to enable log files of type LOG.Check the Input checkbox to enable log files of type USR.Check the Error checkbox to enable log files of type ERR.

See “Structure of the log files” on page A-5 for Information on each of these log file types.

Even if you have not activated the Log Files option, you can view recent log entries by choosing Log Window in the View menu. The Log Window has the same structure as the log files and initially shows the last 1000 log entries.

Log Reason If you check the Log Reason checkbox, users are forced to enter a comment to explain the reason for the change when saving one of the following files:

• Carrier.cfg

• Gemini.cfg

• Gemini.set

• Gemini.opt

• LClasses.dat


Caution:

Gemini can write up to 100,000 individual log files, which can use up a lot of storage on your hard disk. Accordingly, it is recommended to archive and then delete old log files on a regular basis.


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This feature helps to identify why the user performed a specific action. This feature can only be activated or disabled by the Gemini Administrator.

The Log Reason feature also forces the currently logged in user to re-enter his or her Gemini password each time one of the above files are modified:

The user comment for each of these files can be viewed in the Data Explorer (see “Data Explorer” on page 17). Only the most recent comment is saved. Earlier comments are stored with earlier versions of these files, which are automatically backed up to the .\Gemini\Data\History directory (see “Gemini directory structure and files” on page A-10).

If one of the above files has been automatically modified and saved by Gemini, Gemini automatically inserts a Log Reason text which starts with "Gemini:".

Evaluate file checksumsGemini uses a checksum system which is based on a CRC algorithm to protect important configuration, script, trace and log files. The checksum is a computed value which is used to detect corrupted or otherwise altered data. It is also able to detect whether files have been modified outside of Gemini by another program or process.

A warning is shown if an attempt is made to load a file with an incorrect or missing checksum. The user can then choose to load the file or cancel. In the latter case, Gemini aborts with the exception of script files (*.gem). In this case, the file is not loaded but Gemini remains running. An entry is written to the log file each time an incorrect or missing checksum is found.

Uncheck the Evaluate file checksums checkbox if you want to disable the warning (you need Administrator rights to do this). You should normally only need to do this if you are using Gemini as part of a complex system such as the FACTS scheduling software.

The Data Explorer function can be used to check whether the main Gemini files have valid checksums (see “Data Explorer” on page 17).

Figure 4-6: Password prompt with the Log Reason feature active


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Automatic data backupCheck this checkbox and specify the duration in days to automatically back up Gemini configuration files and script files at regular intervals. Gemini creates a new sub-directory in the Gemini directory for each backup. See “Backup Data / Recover Data” on page 16 for more information.

4.3.3.1 Maintenance counters

This function shows the instrument’s internal counters for LiHa, RoMa and PnP movements. Gemini gets this information by interrogating the instrument (the counters are all set to zero in simulation mode)

Specify the required limits for instrument usage in the Maximum allowed fields and check the Active checkbox in the Maintenance panel of the Settings dialog box if you want to activate automatic warnings when the usage limits have been reached. When the limits have been reached, the user will be prompted to perform routine maintenance activities and the instrument will not start the pipetting run. See the operating manual for your instrument for information on the maintenance which is required.

After carrying out the maintenance, click the Reset buttons to reset the internal counters to allow pipetting to be carried out again.

You need to have Administrator rights to activate the maintenance check and/or set the predefined limits for the counters (see “User management” on page 24).

4.3.4 Arm initialization

Each time Gemini or a Gemini script is started, the status of the instrument arms (LiHa, RoMa and PnP) and options (e.g. Te-MO or Te-VacS) is checked and they are initialized if necessary. In addition, a full initialization sequence is carried out when Gemini is started for the first time after powering up the instrument.

Figure 4-7: Maintenance Counters dialog box


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When the instrument arms are initialized, a sequence of movements is carried out to determine the reference (zero) positions along the X, Y and Z axes. During the full initialization sequence, the arms need to move fully to the rear of the instrument to determine the zero position in the Y direction.

Initialization mode: StandardWith the GENESIS Freedom instrument, during full initialization all arms move to the rear left of the worktable to initialize all axes.

With the GENESIS RSP instrument, during full initialization the LiHa moves to the rear left of the worktable and the (optional) RoMa moves to the rear right of the worktable.

With all instrument types, after initialization the arms move to their home (i.e. safe or parking) positions if they have been defined (see “Defining the home position for a RoMa” on page 303 and “Defining the home position for a PnP” on page 311).

Initialization mode: To the frontIf the rear left of the worktable is occupied by other objects, choose To the front to avoid a collision during full initialization. You must then specify the grid position range in the From grid and To fields to indicate where it is safe to move the arms to the rear of the instrument. Since, with this option, the arms move one at a time to the rear and then back to the front, the grid position range only needs to wide enough to accommodate one arm.

See also “Initialize Instrument” on page 31.

4.3.5 External Devices

This function is used to select the COM ports to use for external devices such as the carousel or centrifuge.

Gemini uses the following communication parameters for the serial interfaces:

Device Baud rate

Bits Stop Bits Parity Flow control

Carousel 9600 8 1 Even None

Carousel Scanner 9600 8 1 No None

Waterbath 9600 8 1 No None

Centrifuge 9600 7 1 Even None

Variomag 9600 8 1 No None

Balance 2400 7 1 Even DTR

Barcode Scanner 9600 7 2 Even None

Table 4-1: Configuration of the serial interfaces for external devices


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If Gemini is not able to successfully communicate with an external device, make sure that the device’s serial interface has been correctly configured for the above communication parameters. Also make sure that you are using the correct serial interface cable.

4.3.6 Te-MO Configuration

This function shows the current configuration of the Te-MO. Gemini gets this information by interrogating the Te-MO. The only settings in this screen which can be changed are the wash block sensors for the Te-MO 96 (in simulation mode, you can also choose the configured number of tips). The Te-MO hardware is configured by the Tecan Field Service Engineer using the Genesis Setup & Service software (see the “Genesis Instrument Software Manual - Doc ID 390791”, “Setup & Service Software Module” for more information).

The parameters of this dialog box are as follows:

Maximum pipetting speedThis shows the configured maximum pipetting speed.

Plunger capacityThis shows the configured plunger capacity of the Te-MO pipetting head.

Number of carriersThis shows the configured number of Te-MO carriers.

Figure 4-8: Te-MO Configuration


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TipsGlobal Z-travel: This shows the configured Z-axis position for moving the Te-MO pipetting head to other positions. A positive value for the offset lowers the tips (i.e. reduces the upwards movement when moving to the Global Z-travel position). Global Z-travel is normally set to 0 avoid the risk of a collision.

Number: This shows the configured number of tips.

Wash Station Sensors (Te-MO 96)The Te-MO hardware supports up to two Wash Blocks for the Te-MO 96 pipetting head. The radio buttons show whether wash liquid level detection is switched on or off for the two wash blocks. The wash block sensors should normally be switched on for both wash blocks, but can be disabled e.g. if you are using a wash liquid with a high electrical resistance which cannot be detected reliably.

APC PositionsThis shows the slide positions which are equipped with solenoid-operated Active Positioning Carriers.

Te-Stack PositionsThis shows which slides are equipped with a Te-MO stacker:1: Left slide2: Middle slide3: Right slide

Te-Stack Head DistanceThis shows the spacing between the Te-MO pipetting head and the Te-MO stackers in units of 0.1 mm.


Gemini Software Manual V4 - KU Leuven · 2003. 2. 27. · February 2003 Gemini Software Manual -...

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Transcript of Gemini Software Manual V4 - KU Leuven · 2003. 2. 27. · February 2003 Gemini Software Manual -...