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The Opentrons Flex Absorbance Plate Reader Module is a fully automated solution for absorbance-based assays. Capable of detecting absorbance in the 400-1000 nm range, it is optimized for a broad array of applications, including protein quantification, sample normalization, cell viability assays, and bacterial growth monitoring.
This module facilitates complete walkaway automation, enabling high-throughput data collection with no manual intervention. Paired with the Opentrons Flex Gripper, it automates every step from reagent prep to plate transfer to measurement, ensuring consistent and reproducible results.
The Opentrons Flex Absorbance Plate Reader Module is not available for sale in Europe.*
Prices listed here are valid in the US and select other territories. Please get in touch with your local team for pricing for your territory.
Reader: 9.6 x 15.5 x 5.7 cm (w/l/h)
Adapter: 8.6 x 12.8 x 1.7 cm (w/l/h)
Illumination unit: 435g
Detection unit: 355g
Absorbance
Endpoint, Kinetic
96-well microplates (flat bottom)
0.0–4.0 OD (optical density)
0.001 OD (optical density)
USB connection 5 V
2.5 Watts
450 nm, 562 nm, 600 nm, 650nm, custom wavelengths available
96 Photodiodes
405 nm: ≤ 1.5% from 0.0 – 2.0 OD; ≤ 3.0% from 2.0 – 3.0 OD   Â
≥ 450 nm: ≤ 1.0% from 0.0 – 2.0 OD; ≤ 1.5% from 2.0 – 3.0 OD
405 nm: ≤ 1.5% + 0.010 OD from 0.0 – 2.0 OD; ≤ 3.0% + 0.010 OD from 2.0 – 3.0 OD
≥ 450 nm: ≤ 1.0% + 0.010 OD from 0.0 – 2.0 OD; ≤ 1.5% + 0.010 OD from 2.0 – 3.0 OD
≤ 0.5 % + 0.005 OD from 0.0–2.0 OD; ≤ 1 % + 0.010 OD from 2.0–3.0 OD
Data from the absorbance reads can be exported from the run log in CSV file formats for downstream analysis or integration into LIMS or custom pipelines.
No. The current module does not include temperature regulation or shaking functions. You can use the Flex Gripper to move plates to the Opentrons Temperature Module or Opentrons Heater-Shaker Module to carry out these functions.
The Flex Absorbance Plate Reader Module is ideal for cell viability assays (typical wavelength = 450 nm), protein quantification (562 nm), cell growth assays (600 nm), and enzyme activity assays (650 nm).
Yes. While it’s not a full spectrophotometer, it supports endpoint and kinetic measurements over time for assays like growth curves or enzyme kinetics.
The module comes pre-calibrated from the factory, and no routine user calibration is required. However, it can be validated using reference standards if needed.
Yes. The plate reader is fully integrated with the Flex platform and can be included in automated workflows using Opentrons protocols and software tools, including Opentrons Python API, Opentrons Protocol Designer, and OpentronsAI.
The plate reader comes with filters that support the following wavelengths as standard: 450 nm, 562 nm, 600 nm, and 650nm. Custom wavelengths between 400 to 1000 nm can also be ordered.
The module supports standard flat-bottom 96-well plates that comply with ANSI/SBS standards.
