BD FACSMicroCount
Features
How the system works
The BD FACSMicroCount™ flow cytometer uses sophisticated fluidics, laser optics, electronic detectors, analog-to digital converters, and a dedicated computer to measure microbes in a variety of matrices. An equal level of sophistication and attention to detail is designed into the user interface and software to make the BD FACSMicroCount simple to use.
Automation Delivers Rapid and Consistent Results
The instrument can be set up to measure microbes using predefined tests or user-defined assays. Four predefined methods in the BD FACSMicroCount software automate testing of performance standards, E. coli, product screening, and in-process water tests. The system automates sample processing by programming sample injection, reagent additions, mixing, and data collection parameters. Predefined methods can be optimized to fit unique manufacturer requirements and standard operating procedures. The BD FACSMicroCount cytometer can load up to 42 samples at a time from four sample trays. Both trays and tray blocks are magnetized so that trays are automatically detected when loaded in the instrument. Samples are prepared for analysis by labeling microbes with a nucleic acid–specific fluorescent dye. The patented BRAG3* labeling compound is used in conjunction with the nucleic acid dye as a viability stain. It decreases fluorescence intensity of membrane-compromised cells and diminishes background counts due to extraneous debris.
*US Patent 7,205,100
| Product Screening | Water Analysis | Microfermentation | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assay Format | Qualitative | Quantitative | Quantitative |
| Sample Volume | 0.1 mL default | Variable volume range
0.10–0.50 mL | Variable volume range
0.10–0.50 mL |
| Throughput/Hour | 20 samples | 12–15 samples | 12–15 samples* |
| Reagents | Up to 2 | Up to 3 | Up to 3 |
| Reagent Volumes | 200 µL
Nucleic Acid Dye 100 µL BRAG3 | 100 µL
Nucleic Acid Dye 100 µL BRAG3 Buffer, 100 µL | Variable ranges–method specified* |
| Reaction Time/Reagent | 90 seconds | 175 seconds | Method specified* |
*Dependent on selected method parameters
| Application | Time to Result
BD FACSMicroCount |
|---|---|
| Product Screening* | 24 hours |
| Water Screening | 5 minutes |
| Direct Swab/Environmental | 5 minutes |
| Direct Enumeration | Under 8 minutes |
| Bioburden | Under 10 minutes |
*Using the BD FACSMicroCount, most personal care, OTC pharmaceuticals, and household cleansers take 24 hours. Exception: toothpaste (30 hours), fiber capsules (48 hours).
The BD FACSMicroCount system has 3 standard sample trays that load up to 12 samples and fit into positions 2, 3, or 4 of the tray block. The other tray can load up to 6 samples and fits into position 1 of the tray block. This tray can be used for priority samples.
Reagent ports dispense up to three reagents as specified in predefined or custom-designed software setups.
