What can be done with the Upgrade kit for Automated SPOT-Synthesis?
The MultiPep with SPOT upgrade kit  allows the fully automated synthesis of membrane-bound peptides. A pipetting robot under the control of a PC-based software delivers volumes down to 100 nl. Up to 800 positions on freely defined grids can be addressed on the synthesis support. All washing and deprotection steps are performed automatically. Two membranes of microtiter plate format can be mounted on the work area. Standard grids are 96 or 384 individual spot positions. The regular grid can be freely defined. Up to 48 amino acid derivatives can be used which allows for use of natural and non-natural amino acids in one run.

How easy is a change from small scale synthesis on resin to SPOT synthesis on a membrane?
The SPOT synthesis module is compatible with the base configurations of the MultiPep. It requires exchange of the distribution needle and, in case of the column version, also the syringe to allow the distribution of very small volumes. Pre-activated amino acids can be transferred from the mixer vials or are activated automatically for each synthesis cycle. The instrument can be converted from one version to the other in less than 30 minutes.

How is the washing and drying of the membranes done on MultiPep with SPOT upgrade kit?
Two membranes are mounted in the steel frame on top of a supporting Teflon foil with extraction holes. The solid construction allows fixation of the synthesis membrane on all sides with no leakage of reagents or solvents. Solvents are distributed by a manifold and extracted by vacuum. Vacuum extraction is rapid and the membranes can be fully dried after washing with ethanol.

Can I use bulk reagents?
Yes, the upgrade MultiPep was designed for economical operation. Solvents and activator are bought from standard, recommended suppliers. Only amounts needed for a particular synthesis are weighed, dissolved and used.

Does the upgrade MultiPep have to be operated in a fume hood?
No, the instrument comes with a self-contained cabinet. An exhaust tube leading to a ventilation system must be connected to an outlet provided.

Do I have access to all synthesis parameters?
The synthesis cycle is composed of individual tasks of the robot. The software lets you have full access to all relevant parameters and you can modify existing methods or create new procedures.

Is there a record of what the instrument does?
All instrument operations are automatically recorded to the computer hard disc. The files can be opened by standard text editors.