Atmospheric Control Unit

Enhanced cell-based assays

The Atmospheric Control Unit (ACU) for the CLARIOstar Plus, VANTAstar, Omega series and NEPHELOstar Plus is the ideal solution for live cell-based applications, from standard cell growth to hypoxic assays or pH control. The ACU provides a complete solution to fully and independently regulate both O₂ and CO₂ gas levels within the microplate reader chamber. From standard proliferation to hypoxic or cytotoxicity assays, the ACU provides the optimal environment for any live cell assay.

In combination with temperature control, shaking options, and bottom reading detection, the ACU offers a versatile walk-away solution for long-term cell-based assays.

Unique gas ramping feature

As a unique feature within plate readers, the CLARIOstar Plus with ACU offers the capability to run O₂ and CO₂ gas ramps. For instance, the ACU can deprive O₂ and then rapidly re-oxygenate back to physiological conditions, keeping meanwhile steady CO₂ levels. This capability enhances live cell-based assays and supports ischemia-reperfusion research, as disease models such as ischemia-reperfusion can be reproduced in vitro in a microplate reader.

Features

O₂ control range: 0.1 - 20%, 1-20% VANTAstar
CO₂ control range: 0.1 - 20%, 1-20% VANTAstar
Gas ramping function (CLARIOstar Plus only)
Gas value trackability in MARS Data Analysis Software (CLARIOstar Plus only)
LCD touchscreen with intuitive user interface and gas concentration curve display
Up to 10 user-definable presets
Superior valve control for minimal gas consumption
Integrated gas pressure regulators and sensors with acoustic alarm
Altitude correction for accurate gas regulation