Answers to the most frequently asked question regarding CellDrop Automated Cell Counter technology, applications and software can be found below.
What is the range of cell size and density CellDrop can measure?
Size range – 4 to 400 µm
Density range – 7 x 102 – 2.5 x 107 cells/mL
What sample volume does CellDrop require?
The default chamber height of 100 µm requires 10 µL of sample. Chamber heights of 50 µm and 400 µm require 5 µL and 40 µL of your sample respectively.
Can the CellDrop deal with clumped cells?
Yes. Advanced declustering algorithms have been developed by DeNovix to define individual cells within a cluster.
Can I upgrade from brightfield to fluorescence?
The instruments contain different hardware and an upgrade involves returning the instrument to DeNovix. Please contact DeNovix or your local distributor for details.
Can I use other fluorophores than those in the pre-defined assays?
Yes, custom methods can be created for alternative assays. Check instrument specifications to ensure that fluorophores meet with the excitation / emission profile of the CellDrop.
What is the difference between CellDrop FL and CellDrop BF? Why would I need Fluorescence?
CellDrop FL provides dual fluorescence channels and brightfield optics. CellDrop BF is a brightfield only system.
While brightfield image analysis has been applied to many mammalian cells, there are many cells and applications that are difficult or impossible to analyze with this method alone. Primary cells such as peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) are present amongst large numbers of anucleate red blood cells. RBCs may be called as dead cells using brightfield, skewing cell viability estimates. Fluorescence methods specifically target live / dead PBMCs and do not bind to RBCs giving accurate and sensitive counts. Assays such as Green Fluorescent Protein transfection specifically require measuring fluorescence to assess the success of an assay.
How do I know which chamber height to use for my cells?
For most cell samples our standard 100 µm chamber is appropriate. For high or low density cell suspensions the height may be set at 50 or 400 µm. Software alerts guide the user to the appropriate settings and preferences can be saved in user defined protocols.
Is carryover an issue between samples?
Cells can be removed from upper and lower sample surfaces using a dry laboratory wipe. This is sufficient to clean the surface clean and be ready for the next sample. The live view of the sample area displayed on the screen can be used to confirm that cleaning is successful. If additional cleaning is required add 15µL of 70% ethanol to the surface and wipe away.
What if the sample surfaces get scratched?
The CellDrop sample chamber is formed between two sapphire surfaces. These cannot be scratched in normal operation.
Can CellDrop assess transfection efficiency?
Yes. The CellDrop FL has an App specifically for assessing GFP transfection efficiency.
Can I measure PBMCs?
Yes. Using the CellDrop FL along with the AO/PI viability assay, Cell counts and viability of PBMCs can be measured in the presence of red blood cells and other debris.
What if my samples are hazardous?
In addition to DirectPipette, CellDrop is also compatible with a range of disposable plastic slides.
Can CellDrop count bacterial cells?
No. The current specifications of the CellDrop mean that most bacterial cells are not big enough to be counted.
Can I add custom assays to the ones already pre-programmed?
Yes. EasyApps™ software allows custom methods and protocols to expand the flexibility of the system to include new assays and methods.
Does EasyApps software have password-protected user accounts?
Yes. User defined protocols can be stored and protected. A range of software and system preference can be saved including export formats and locations. Pay-As-You-Go Cell Counts can also be applied to, and shared between, individual accounts.
I don’t have an internet connection in the lab. Can I still use CellDrop?
Yes. Software can be updated using a USB drive and data exported in the same way. The instrument does not require an internet connection for routine use.
Is my data saved on the CellDrop?
Yes. CellDrop includes a large, internal solid state hard drive. All sample data is automatically saved to the instrument. When the hard drive is full, data will be removed from the device in a first-in-first-out fashion.
How can I export my data?
Data, images and reports can be exported via Wi-Fi or Ethernet using email or printed to network or label printers. Data can also be saved to USB.
Is the CellDrop susceptible to malware / viruses?
No. CellDrop software uses a custom Linux platform that prevents viruses or other software from being installed.
Does CellDrop require routine calibration?
No, the CellDrop does not require routine calibration.
What is the warranty duration on the CellDrop?
All new CellDrop instruments are covered with a two year manufacturer warranty.
Can I cover my instrument with extended warranty plans?
Yes. Additional extended service plans are available for all models.
Do I need to turn the CellDrop off after my session / overnight?
No, the CellDrop will enter a low power mode when inactive. Simply touch the screen to wake the instrument when required.
Does the CellDrop need to be connected to the internet?
No. The count code you are provided is coded to your instrument and does not need to be activated through the internet.
Can I upgrade from PAYG to Unlimited?
Yes, and we’ll also take into account the number of codes you have purchased when you are quoted an upgrade price. Contact DeNovix or your local distributor for details.
Does the CellDrop “unlock” when I buy a certain number of codes.
Yes. DeNovix will provide an Unlimited code once a set number of codes have been purchased.
