For FAQs about the OT-2 and Opentrons Flex, click here.
Yes, the Opentrons Flex’s side windows and front door are removable.
Yes, this can be achieved through the Opentrons app. You will need to be connected to a computer that is on the same WiFi or wired network as the liquid handler.
Yes. Just like the OT-2, the Flex has full capability to accept custom or irregular labware. Our custom labware creation tools can be used to help create the compatible labware definitions that are required to use irregular labware with our software.
You can use one computer running the Opentrons App to connect to multiple robots. This is true for both the Opentrons Flex and OT-2 robots.
OT-2 pipettes and OT-2 pipette tips are not compatible with the Opentrons Flex. The OT-2 pipette nose cone and Flex pipette nose cones are constructed differently, preventing cross-compatibility. OT-2 tip boxes/refills are also not compatible with the Flex.
Opentrons can only guarantee performance of the Flex when using our Flex pipette tips.
No, Opentrons’ OT-2 pipettes will not be compatible with the Opentrons Flex. The Opentrons Flex is intended for use with our Flex Pipettes.
Users do not need a computer connected to the Opentrons Flex to run a protocol. Users will need to build the protocol on a computer and upload it to the Flex. Once uploaded, the protocol can be ran solely off the display.
You do not need to know how to code to use the Opentrons Flex platform. Protocols can be created using Opentrons’ plug-and-play protocol design tools. We also have an Applications Engineering team that can build custom protocols for you.
The Opentrons Flex 8-channel and 96-channel pipettes will aspirate and dispense the same volume with all channels at the same time. Volume is not independently controlled across channels.
Crashes will be detected by the Opentrons Flex by comparing the actual vs. intended move of the embedded motors.
For example, If the robot expected 2 motor rotations, but only 1 rotation is completed due to a crash(which stops the motors from moving), then the robot would detect a discrepancy between intended move and actual. This would then throw an error and let you know you need to recalibrate.
Yes, we are still using stepper motors with linear encoders. This enables us to track the steps of the motor and handle errors with positioning.
For those familiar with the homing patterns of the OT-2 robot, we no longer rely on rehoming the axis with limit switches in an open-looped feedback architecture. We can use a closed-loop system, powered by our new encoders to reduce the number of times that we have to home in a protocol.
This is not an optical process. The robot uses capacitance sensors and a calibration probe (shipped with Flex pipettes) to perform automated calibration. Capacitive sensing for automated calibration is done by having a current run through the pipette’s metal tip at the bottom and then through a calibration tip until it’s grounded.
Users can save up to 8 protocols to the Opentrons Flex display.
The Opentrons Flex is not currently CFR 21 Part 11 compliant. Opentrons is in the process of pursuing CFR Part 11 compliance for the Flex.
The Opentrons Flex requires on-site installation. We also offer both remote and on-site services solutions, as well as annual preventative maintenance.
You can find more information on Opentrons’ service offerings here.
20 cm (8 in) of side and back clearance for cables, USB connections, and to dissipate exhaust from instruments like the Thermocycler or Temperature Module.
