Automation of sample mounting for macromolecular crystallography.
A standard sample holder and vial for cryocooled macromolecular crystals has been defined for use with robotic sample changers. This SPINE standard sample holder is a modified version, with added features and specifications, of sample holders in common use. In particular, the SPINE standard meets the precision required for automatic sample exchange and includes a cap that is identified by a two-dimensional datamatrix code as well as an optional vial. At the ESRF, the sample holder standard is in use with the EMBL/ESRF/BM14 robotic sample changer (SC3) which is installed on eight beamlines. The SC3 can hold up to 50 crystals stored in five baskets. A datamatrix reader in the SC3 ensures safe management of the sample flow and facilitates fully automatic screening and characterization of samples. Tools for handling and transporting 50 samples in a dry shipping dewar have been developed. In addition to the SC3, the SPINE sample holder is currently compatible with a number of other robotic sample changers.
Cipriani
F
F
EMBL-Grenoble, 6 Rue Jules Horowitz, BP 181, Grenoble CEDEX 9, France. cipriani@embl.fr
Felisaz
F
F
Launer
L
L
Aksoy
J S
JS
Caserotto
H
H
Cusack
S
S
Dallery
M
M
di-Chiaro
F
F
Guijarro
M
M
Huet
J
J
Larsen
S
S
Lentini
Mario
M
McCarthy
J
J
McSweeney
S
S
Ravelli
R
R
Renier
M
M
Taffut
C
C
Thompson
A
A
Leonard
G A
GA
Walsh
M A
MA
D001331:Automation; D003461:Crystallography / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000592:standards; D004581:Electronics; D008280:Magnetics; D012015:Reference Standards; D012371:Robotics; D012984:Software; D017356:Synchrotrons