You are here: Software and Hardware Overview : Hardware Overview

Hardware Overview

The TEMPEST is designed to make dispensing fast and easy. It can be configured to simultaneously deliver up to 12 reagents through 96 individually controlled nozzles, and is capable of dispensing any volume of any reagent into any well.

Before running an experiment, we recommend that you get familiar with each of the TEMPEST components. Use the images below to learn about each part of the TEMPEST.

TEMPEST Hardware - Front View

To read about each feature, expand the related topic by clicking on the title.

Modular Dispense Head

The modular dispense head can accept up to 12 easily replaceable chips. Each chip contains eight dispense nozzles.

Reagent Inputs

The reagent inputs are compatible with tubes and pipette tips.

Tube Holders

The tube holders are compatible with 50 mL Falcon tubes and can accommodate six reagent tubes.

Motorized Stage/Plate Holder

The motorized stage enables for versatile robotic accessibility for automated plate loading, dispensing, and unloading.

Wash Station

The wash station is a container that holds either water or washing solution that is used during the chip washing process.

Waste Station

The waste station is a container where the TEMPEST deposits waste liquids.

Bottle Rack

The bottle rack is compatible with two types of Nalgene bottles: a 125 mL bottle to be used as the waste container, and a 250 mL bottle to be used as the wash container.

Optional: Plate Stackers

The base TEMPEST can be upgraded to include plate stackers. The stackers are 350 mm tall and can hold up to 24 SBS plates (based on 14.35 mm plate height). With our latest feature that supports dispensing into deep well plates, the stackers can hold up to 8 deep well plates (based on a 44.0 mm plate height).

TEMPEST Hardware - Back View

Power Switch

The power switch turns the TEMPEST On and Off.

Power Port

The power port is the area where you plug the power cable into the TEMPEST.

Universal Serial Bus (USB) Port

The USB port is where you plug the USB into the TEMPEST. The other end of the USB cable should be plugged into your computer.

Barcode Scanner Port

The barcode scanner port is where you plug the barcode scanner port into the TEMPEST. The other end of the barcode scanner port should be plugged into your barcode scanner.

Vacuum Instant Fitting

The vacuum instant fitting plug connects the air source to the system to create a vacuum.

Pressure Instant Fitting

The pressure instant fitting plug connects the air source to the system to create pressure.

Ventilation Fan

The ventilation fan removes excess heat from the unit.