We have planned to buy a microplate reader (absorbance) for our laboratory. The available funding is Rs.4,50,000 (7000 dollars). While enquiry, we came to know that filter based readers are comparatively cheaper than monochromatic based readers. Please suggest us to find the ideal microplate reader with this available funds.
Thanking you in advance for your replies.
Hi Annadurai, you could check out ebay, they have good deals on microplate readers
http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2050601.m570.l1313.TR2.TRC1.A0.H0.TRS0&_nkw=+microplate+reader+&ghostText=&_sacat=0
Filter-based readers may be cheaper, but you will have to get a different filter every time you want to change wavelengths, so there is additional cost. With monochromator-based readers, you will not have to do this. If you are planning to make far ultraviolet absorbance measurements (e.g. 260 nm), make sure the reader is capable of making measurements at the wavelengths of interest. You will also have to think about getting special plates to make measurements at wavelengths below 340 nm. If you are planning on using microplates with 384-wells, check that the reader can do it. Most readers have computer interfaces to control them and collect the data. You will have to factor in the cost of that if you need to get a computer. Make sure the software and license are included, too. Be sure that the power supply uses the same voltage as your electrical supply (110 or 220 V), or else you will need a transformer.
In addition to eBay, there are many other suppliers of used laboratory equipment.
http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2050601.m570.l1313.TR2.TRC1.A0.H0.TRS0&_nkw=+microplate+reader+&ghostText=&_sacat=0
Hi, there is a third Option: spectrometer. The spectrometer has the advantages of a Monochromator but it is much faster as it acquires the whole spectrum without mechanical parts moving (as in Monochromators). As a consequence, a spectrometer acquires the whole spectrum from 200 to 1000 nm in less than 1 second per well.