Bio-Rad Components for Older Model Spot Cutter - Manual (Page 9)

The working surface is shown in Appendix B and consists of two main areas, the cutting
surface and the microtiter plate holder / wash wells area. In addition there is also a
bubble level which is used to ensure the cutting surface is level.
• Cutting Surface
The cutting platform dimensions are 25 x 25 cm. The cutting tip can access an area of
22 cm x 20.5 cm within this 25 x 25 cm area. The cutting tip range will cover the protein
resolving area of any commercially available gel type. The extra platform area was
designed to accommodate the entire gel without the need for cutting the gel to fit the
cutting platform. The diagram below shows the orientation of the cutting area within the
platform. Gels should be positioned against the right wall of the cutting platform, next to
the microtiter plate holder, and centered vertically in the platform.
Figure 3. Cutting Platform and Cutting Area.
• Cutting Mats
Two cutting mats are provided with the system. The cutting mats provide for a flexible
surface beneath the gel to allow for complete excision of the gel spots. The mats may
become scored by the cutting tip, stained by the gel stains, or become cracked with repeated
use over time. This is normal wear and replacement mats are available from Bio-Rad.
Order catalog number 165-7019. To extend the life of the cutting mats, and to make gel
handling easier, disposable Gel Cutting Sheets are available, catalog number 165-5018.
• Gel Cutting Sheets, catalog number 165-7018. Gel Cutting Sheets are thin plastic sheets
that are positioned between the cutting mat and the gel in the cutting area. This prevents
scoring by the cutting tip and extends the life of the cutting mat. The Gel Cutting Sheets
can also be used to lift gels out of storage trays to minimize damage to gels from
excessive handling. (If a Gel Cutting Sheet will be used during gel excision make sure that
the cutting tip height is adjusted accordingly. See Section 3.5 "Set Cutting Tip Height".)
6
Approximate
Gel Cutting area
of platform
22 cm
20.5 cm